Santo Antônio
Because I’m one part Saint and one part sinner.
You’ll love this...
Named after the patron saint of the city, this cool little freguesia (parish) is where Lisbon’s best festival kicks off. Santo Antônio is a religious celebration with lots of non-religious antics (and grilled sardines).
But you won’t love this...
If you’re allergic to sardines, basil, or festivals, then this spot might not be for you.
Will I like living here?...
Just north of Barrio Alto and Principe Real, it’s a laid back charmer and we think you’ll love it.
Avenida da Liberdade is the epicentre of life in Santo Antônio, a 90 metre-wide boulevard with pedestrian pavements, restaurants, cafes, and lovely gardens.
It’s a fine spot for a Porto Tónico on a hot summer day (One part white port + two parts tonic water).
And if you’re bored...
Be here in June for the Santo Antônio Festival: Join the colourful procession down Avenida da Liberdade, then head into Alfama where things really kick off! Grilled sardines, sangria, and one hell of a street party.
Google rating: 4.5/5 And this Google review nails it: “It started in Santo Antônio. I woke up the next morning in Alfama, married, smelling of basil.”
Anything else?
Tascas are the casual ‘crack in the wall’ restaurants serving up classics like stews and steaks. They are dotted all throughout Santo Antônio and it’s where the locals eat lunch (and you should too). Try Tasca Do Marinheiro.
And did you know?…
When the Santo Antônio festival rolls around, you may note the sweet smell of basil wafting through the neighborhood.
That's because Santo Antônio is the matchmaker saint, and basil is the herb of love. Nothing woos like the gift of newly sprouted basil (for a newly sprouted love ;). Awww.
Move here to be near:
* Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Lisboa
* Museum of Cinema: Cinema showing the classics
* San Antonio cathedral
* Barrio Alto
* Chiado
Getting to and from the airport...
You can take a taxi from Lisbon Airport. It will cost you roughly €15 and takes about 15 minutes.
Need to know more? Find all the stats you need here:
* The World’s Healthiest Cities
* Equality in Europe
