This will be a recurring blog post that gets updated weekly with the best things to do in Lisbon this week. I’ll include free events, paid events, arts, concerts…you name it. The events you see here have not been sponsored, but if you would like for me to add your event, send me a note here.
If you want to receive the Things to Do In Lisbon This Week Newsletter, just sign up for it on the bottom of this page.
And btw, April is a special month in Lisbon. April is when Portugal celebrates the Carnation revolution, it is a celebration of Liberty and Peace. As such there will be plenty of cool things to do in Lisbon this week (and month).
The April Festivities in Lisbon extend throughout the month, with most events taking place in the second half of April. City hall will even open its doors to the public on April 25th, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, allowing people to enter the neoclassical building and explore the local government center.
Things to Do In Lisbon This Week
April 1-15
Visit Macau While In Lisbon
April 15-22
Praça do Comércio – Light Show Timings
- 8:30 pm
- 9:00 pm
- 9:30 pm
- 10:00 pm
Pop-up exhibition
- Daily 2:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The “Feeling Macau Without Limits – Sentir Macau set Limits” event takes place in Lisbon from April 15 to 22, 2023. The event aims to showcase Macau’s latest tourism offerings and attract international visitors as part of a broader effort to revitalize the tourism industry and stimulate economic recovery. The event features a series of repurposed shipping containers that serve as exhibition stands, highlighting the rich and diverse array of Macau’s tourist, cultural, economic, and commercial attractions. Additionally, visitors can experience the splendor of Macau through a nightly Macau Tourism Video Mapping light show held at the iconic Praça do Comércio in Lisbon.
Take a Night Tour of Palacio Fronteira At 50% off
April 18
Palacio Fronteira
- Largo São Domingos de Benfica 01, 1500-554 Lisboa, Portugal
- April 18
- 7:30 pm in Portuguese
- 8:00 pm in English
- 8:30 pm in French
- 9:00 pm in Portuguese
- Phone: 21 782 023
- Price: 14€ Adults, Kids are free
Discover the enchanting allure of Lisbon’s hidden gem, the Fronteira Palace, as you embark on a captivating guided night visit. For this week only, experience the magic of the 17th century at an exclusive 50% off! Step into a world of timeless elegance as you explore the palace’s stunning collection of tiles—the largest of its kind from this period, meticulously preserved in their original setting. But Fronteira Palace is more than just a National Monument and museum; it’s a living, breathing testament to history, still inhabited by the descendants of Dom João de Mascarenhas, the 1st Marquis of Fronteira. Feel the warmth and charm of a home that has stood the test of time, and immerse yourself in its unique and captivating atmosphere. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to journey through history and beauty.
Go Taste Lots Of Wine
April 22
Lisbon Marriott Hotel
- Av. dos Combatentes 45, 1600-042 Lisboa, Portugal
- April 22
- 2:30 PM – 8:00 PM
- Price: 10 – 15€
In vino veritas, and the truth is that Enóphilo WineFest 2023 Lisbon is just around the corner! With just over a week left, wine enthusiasts are uncorking their excitement for this grape-tastic wine tasting event.
With more than 50 producers, this event is like a fine wine—complex, full-bodied, and representing some of the best that Portugal has to offer. Prepare your palates for a flight of over 300 wines, including new releases that are as refreshing as a chilled glass of Vinho Verde, and some curious blends that will leave you saying, “Wine not?”
Whether you’re a sommelier in training or just someone who enjoys a good grape pun, Enóphilo WineFest 2023 Lisbon is the place to be. Cheers to that! 🍷
Tour Lisbon's Most Beautiful Historic Shops and Enjoy Some Art
April 1-22
Explore the EGEAC Plastic Artists – Stores with History program. This initiative, started by the Lisbon City Council, aims to preserve and revitalize the traditional and historic commerce of the city. From April 6th to 22nd, visit some of Lisbon’s most historic establishments temporarily transformed into small art galleries. Ten works by invited artists can be seen in stores such as Largo do Rato’s Papelaria Fernandes do Rato, Príncipe Real Enxovais, Solar Antiques, and more. Follow the suggested route starting at Largo do Rato and heading towards Chiado for a unique and cultural shopping experience
April 16-30
Kid's Concerts at Lu.Ca Theatre
April 15, 22, 23
For children, there will be six concerts at the Lu.Ca theater in Ajuda on April 15th, 22nd, and 23rd. Other musical events include “Freedom, Freedom” by Helena Sarmento, a concert with commentary by Miguel Carvalho, scheduled for April 21st at the Museum of Fado.
More info coming soon.
April 19
Listen to the Sounds of Jazz Legend Jason Miles
April 19
Jazz Messengers Record Store at LX Factory
- Rua Rodriguez Faria, 103 Edificio G
- April 19, 6:30Pm
- Free show
get ready for an unforgettable experience as Grammy Award-winning producer, keyboardist, composer, arranger, and synthesist Jason Miles presents his one-man show, “The Extraordinary Journey of Jason Miles: A Musical Biography,” in Lisbon. This captivating event, featuring a solo musical performance, offers a unique opportunity to explore the life and career of the man behind the music of legendary artists such as Miles Davis, Luther Vandross, Sting, Roberta Flack, Whitney Houston, and many more. Head to Jazz Messengers record store for this free live concert and witness Jason’s musical virtuosity as he shares exclusive stories and anecdotes from his 46-year journey in the music industry. Don’t miss this chance to meet the artist, get your copy of his companion book “The Extraordinary Journey of Jason Miles…A Musical Biography” signed, and celebrate his new solo piano/keyboard-based album, Just For You.
April 21-23
See the Castellers de Vilafranca
April 21 - 23
Various Locations
- Friday, April 21st at 3:30pm at Praça do Município
Sunday, April 23rd at10:00 am at Castelo de São Jorge
Sunday, April 23rd 3:00 pm at Padrão dos Descobrimentos - Cost – Free
Get ready for a breathtaking spectacle as the awe-inspiring human towers of Catalonia come alive in Lisboa! Join us in celebrating the vibrant festival of Sant Jordi with the world-renowned Castellers de Vilafranca. Witness the champions of this ancient tradition as they create gravity-defying towers that soar into the sky!
As part of the Sant Jordi festivities, the Castellers de Vilafranca will showcase their incredible skill and teamwork in constructing towering castells—a Catalan tradition that has captivated audiences for centuries. Dating back to the 18th century, the art of building human towers is more than just a performance; it’s a symbol of unity, strength, and cultural pride.
Marvel at the precision and balance of the Castellers as they climb atop one another, forming multi-tiered structures that reach dizzying heights. Each tower is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of collaboration. The heart-stopping moment when the youngest Casteller ascends to the summit is a sight you won’t want to miss!
Visit Lisbon's Roman Galleries
April 21 - 23
The Lisbon Museum has just unveiled the dates for their next thrilling guided tours, diving deep into the heart of the city’s ancient underground Roman wings! So mark your calendars for April 21, 22, and 23 as these once-hidden marvels open their doors to the public!
Embark on a whirlwind 20 to 25-minute journey through time as you venture beneath downtown Lisbon every 45 minutes. Tickets for this exclusive experience go on sale Monday, April 10. For only €3 (for those over six years old), you can secure up to four tickets per person for this spellbinding expedition.
Unearth the captivating history of these enigmatic galleries, discovered in 1771 after the devastating earthquake of 1755 and the subsequent rebuilding of Lisbon.
Political Film Fest
April 21 - 23
From April 21st to 23rd, the Political Festival will return to Cinema S. Jorge, featuring cinema, debates, music, humor, and workshops. The event aims to remind attendees that democratic values are non-negotiable and to address the increasing embrace of authoritarianism.
April 25
Visit The Aljube Museum
April 25
Museu do Aljube
- Rua de Augusto Rosa, 42, 1100-059 Lisboa
- +351 215 818 535
- Tue – Sun: 10am to 6pm
- Free that day
Discover the rich history of Portugal’s fight for freedom and democracy at the Aljube Museum’s Open Doors Day on April 25th. This unique event invites you to delve into the inspiring stories of resistance against dictatorship, fostering an enlightened and responsible citizenship. The Aljube Museum seeks to fill a gap in the Portuguese museological landscape by commemorating the brave individuals who challenged the dictatorial regime that ruled the country between 1926 and 1974. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the museum’s invaluable collections and exhibitions, as we honor the memories of those who fought for a better future and stand against the silencing of their courageous efforts.
Until May 12
Get To Know Paula Rego & Salette Tavares
Runs Until May 21
Casa de Historias Paula Rego
- Avenida Da Republica, 300 Cascais
- 214 826 970
- Tue – Sun: 10am to 6pm
- Price: €5.00 regular visitors, €2.50 residents
Paula Rego (1935-2022) and Salette Tavares (1922-1994) were friends since 1964. They were also friends in art. This exhibition celebrates the 100th anniversary of the birth of Salette Tavares, commemorates Paula Rego after her death, and looks at Female creativity in the 1970’s.
In my opinion, you don’t know Portuguese culture until you know Paula Rego and Bordalo Pinheiro…so get to it.
June 24
Festa do Japão em Lisboa
June 24
Jardim Vasco De Gama, Belem
- Entrance is Free
- There will be paid activities and Food
- From 2pm to 10pm
“The Japan Festival returns to Lisbon!
The 10th edition of the Japan Festival returns to the Vasco da Gama gardens in Belém, on the 24th of June.
Go and learn more about Japan in Portugal and celebrate the 480th anniversary of the friendship between Portugal and Japan, the history, affinity, and exchange shared for almost 5 centuries between the two countries!
There will be food, demonstrations and tons of cool stuff.