City guide

Solo in Lisbon: where to actually meet people

Hostel bars are one option. Here is where solo travelers in Lisbon end up making friends, from fado nights to rooftop tables.

Stay in Bairro Alto or Príncipe Real

You want to walk home. Both neighborhoods put you within ten minutes of most of the evening plans, and the streets stay busy late, which helps on your first night.

Go where the tables are shared

Fado houses in Alfama seat strangers together at long tables. You will be sitting next to someone either way, so say hello before the lights go down.

Sunset is the social hour

Miradouros fill up around sunset. Bring a drink, pick the one with a crowd your age, and it turns into a conversation fast. Santa Catarina is the easy pick.

Day trips are better with two

Sintra and Cascais are cheaper and more fun split with someone. Post the trip in the app the night before and see who is going the same day.