Lisbon and I are still in our newlywed phase. I moved here with my wife four years ago, and I am more in love than ever with this incredible, ancient city.
I’ve spent countless evenings exploring its secretive nightlife and hidden bar scenes. Lisbon isn’t just my home; it’s a playground of unique, charismatic, and sometimes delightfully eccentric bars that many visitors—and even some locals—might walk past without a second glance.
Here’s my roundup of the top sexy secret bars where you can sip on specialty cocktails, mingle in exclusive settings, and enjoy some of the best views and vibes that Lisbon has to offer.
Photo: Cinco Lounge
Best Bar to Take a First Date: Cinco Lounge
When you’re looking to make a good first impression, Cinco Lounge should be your go-to. With its intimate setting and extensive cocktail menu, this bar offers a relaxed environment where you can get to know each other. The mood lighting and plush seating create a perfect backdrop for all those delicious first-date conversations.
Photo: Tripadvisor
Best Speakeasy: Red Frog
Hidden behind an unassuming door lies Red Frog, a speakeasy that transports you back to the Prohibition era. Known for its innovative cocktails, the mixologists will surprise and delight you with all sorts of unexpected treats for your taste buds.
Photo: Google Maps Images
Best Bar for Gay Cruising and Fetish Play: Bar Cru
Bar Cru is where you go if you’re a gay guy looking for a hookup at a sexy secret bar. Take note: this is not one of those Bachelorette-friendly gay bars; guys come here to fuck. The space is small but intimate and often hosts fetish parties.
The (now inactive) website states: “Cum inside one of the smallest, sexiest, friendliest, most intimate & fun cruising bars.”
Clothing is often optional!
Photo: Sneaky Sip via Instagram
Best Dive Bar: Sneaky Sip
If you’re in the mood for a laid-back vibe with no frills, Sneaky Sip is the place to be. It’s known for its eclectic crowd and relatively cheap drinks. But beware, they don’t fuck around with the password – if you don’t know it, they 100% will not let you in. Check the bar’s Instagram feed for the latest password because they change it often.
Photo: Albatroz Hotel
Best Bar for a Daytime Cocktail and Beach Views: Bar at the Albatroz Hotel
Perched above the scenic coast of Cascais, the Bar at Albatroz Hotel offers stunning ocean views, making it an ideal spot for a daytime cocktail. I will caution you, however, that the bar staff is not overly familiar with American cocktails, so either order off the menu or stick with something classic like a Hemingway daiquiri. And no, this kind of daiquiri is not served frozen.
The decor is chic and nautical, both cozy and very stylish. You must order the “couvert” because the lemon-soaked olives are scrumptious.
Photo: Bougain Restaurant and Garden Bar
Best Garden Bar: Bougain (Cascais)
Bougain is a lush oasis in the heart of Cascais. Surrounded by bougainvillea and offering a serene garden atmosphere, it’s the perfect escape from the bustling city. Enjoy a glass of wine or a phenomenal hand-shaken cocktail in this enchanting setting.
Photo: Tripadvisor
Best Bar for a Fancy Night Out with Friends: Pavilhão Chinês
For a night out with a touch of extravagance, Pavilhão Chinês is a must-visit. This bar is like a museum with its antique collectibles and quirky decor. It offers a unique backdrop for evening drinks and conversation. The bar has the vibe of a college professor who inherited a palace from a rich aunt and had to squeeze all the family heirlooms into four small rooms.
Photo: Memmo Alfama
Best Cozy Rooftop Bar: The Terrace at the Memmo Alfama
Located in the historic Alfama district, the Terrace bar at the Memmo Alfama hotel offers a cozy retreat with panoramic views of the Tagus River. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a sunset cocktail and soak in the sights of Lisbon from above.
Photo: Sky Bar by Seen
Best Bar to Pick Up a Straight Guy: Sky Bar by Seen
Sky Bar by Seen, which has just undergone a fresh renovation, is known for its stylish ambiance and breathtaking views from the top of the Tivoli Hotel. It’s a popular spot for tourists and swanky singles. Sidle up to the bar and see what there is to be seen.
Photo: Purex Clube via Facebook
Best Bar for Lesbians/Queer Folks: Purex Clube
Purex Clube is a quirky, affordable bar for cool queers in Barrio Alto. It has a kitschy vibe (shoutout to the chandeliers made of recycled plastic bottles) that’s relaxed and friendly. The bar also has a small dancefloor that gets super packed on the weekends when different DJs come to play.
Cheers to You!
Now that you know all of my picks for Lisbon’s best sexy secret bars and sneaky spots, which one will you hit first?
