Hidden away in the Cais do Sodré district, Rua Nova do Carvalho is now famously known as Pink Street Lisbon. This was once a gritty red-light district, frequented by sailors, seedy bars, and underground clubs but is now a popular area with trendy clubs and bars. Between 2011 and 2013, as part of an urban renewal project, the street was painted pink. This colourful change was meant to help rebrand the area. As a result, the Pink Street in Lisbon Portugal quickly became a tourist attraction.
Join us as we explore this famous street in Lisbon and share where you need to eat and drink and discover nearby accommodation options to keep you centrally located within the city.
How to get to the Pink Street in Lisbon
Getting to the Pink Street in Lisbon is quick and easy, especially if you’re staying in the city centre. The street is located in Cais do Sodré, one- of Lisbon’s most central and well-connected neighbourhoods.
To begin with, the easiest way to reach Pink Street is by metro. Take the Green Line (Linha Verde) and get off at Cais do Sodré station. Pink Street is just a two-minute walk from the station’s main exit. Alternatively, if you’re coming from Praça do Comércio, you can walk there in about 10 minutes. In addition to the metro, there are several tram and bus routes that stop near the area, including the famous tram 28. If you’re arriving by train or ferry, Cais do Sodré’s terminal also connects with suburban lines and cross-river ferries, making it accessible from places like Cascais or Almada.
If you prefer to explore on foot, Pink Street is located right in Lisbon’s nightlife district. It’s surrounded by key institutions like the Time Out Market, Mercado da Ribeira, and the Elevador da Bica. Finally, you can also rely on taxis to get you home after a night out from Pink Street, as public transport becomes more scarce late at night.
What to do on Pink Street
First of all, the pink-coloured street is what will draw your attention, but there are many things to enjoy in this area.
Tip: We suggest arriving early, especially if you would like to take photos on the Pink Street. By mid-morning it is filled with tourists, and it might be hard to snap a pic without too many people in the background.
During the daytime, enjoy a coffee or explore nearby boutiques and galleries. The pink pavement itself has become a very popular Instagram spot. As the sun sets, Pink Street Lisbon comes alive. The area transforms into one of the city’s top nightlife districts. Bars and restaurants are full, live music begins to fill the air, and the energy (and crowds) ramps up.
Pay attention to the street art, and enjoy local delicacies in the nearby bars.
The best bar and restaurant options on Pink Street
Pink Street Lisbon has an exciting mix of bars, clubs, and eateries. Here are some of the top spots to check out:
Pensão Amor
Arguably the most iconic venue on Pink Street, Pensão Amor used to be a former brothel. It’s full of vintage furniture and erotic artwork and has live jazz/burlesque performances. It’s the perfect cocktail bar to start your night!
Sol e Pesca
Sol e Pesca used to be a fishing tackle shop and now is a fun bar whose menu centres around canned seafood and local beers. It’s ideal for a light bite and a relaxed, authentic Lisbon vibe.
Musicbox
Located under the railway bridge, Musicbox is one of the most popular clubs in Lisbon. It has a reputation for eclectic music.
4 Caravelas Cocktail Bar
Known for its creative cocktails, 4 Caravelas is our recommended bar for dates and intimate nights out. It’s a great option for couples or small groups looking for good drinks without the chaos of the bigger venues.
Practical tips & the best times to visit
1. Visit early for the best photos
At this time, the iconic pink pavement is usually freshly cleaned and doesn’t have large crowds.
2. Come after 9 PM to enjoy the nightlife
On the other hand, if you’re looking for lively nightlife, arrive after 9 PM. That’s when bars open their doors, and people gather to drink, dance, and socialise. The energy builds through the night and often lasts until the early morning hours.
3. Be mindful of noise
While Pink Street is a hotspot for tourists and locals, it also comes with a few challenges. Local residents have raised many concerns over the years about litter and late-night noise, especially on weekends.
4. Wear comfortable shoes
Finally, keep in mind that the street is paved with traditional Portuguese cobblestones, which can be uneven and slippery, particularly after rain or spilt drinks. It’s a good idea to wear flat, comfortable shoes to get home safely.
Nearby attractions around Pink Street
Thanks to its central location in Cais do Sodré, Pink Street Lisbon is surrounded by some of the city’s most iconic spots. Just a few steps away, you’ll find the Time Out Market, which is a stylish food hall perfect for trying local dishes. A short walk from there will take you to Praça do Comércio and the riverside promenade, ideal for sunset views and a stroll. Nearby, the Elevador da Bica is a must-see attraction in Lisbon, with a great viewpoint.
Come and Enjoy Lisbon and its iconic Pink Street
Pink Street Lisbon Portugal is more than just a colourful street floor; it’s become a symbol of the city. Whether you’re searching for nightlife, the quirky bars, or just want to snap the perfect photo, this iconic spot in Cais do Sodré is a unique area within the city.
To fully enjoy everything Pink Street and the surrounding area have to offer, stay nearby in one of Homing’s centrally located accommodations. From modern apartments to charming studios, Homing provides the best in comfort and convenience to explore Lisbon.
Book your stay with Homing today.
