Bairro Alto is the place to be if you’re coming to Lisbon with an appetite for nightlife. This atmospheric area comes alive after dark with hole-in-the-wall bars – that look like nondescript doorways during the daylight hours – and intimate fado sessions. Tourists and locals alike take to the pedestrianised streets with sway in their step, sipping cocktails under rainbow-coloured bunting. Some say this is the heart of Lisbon, and it’s easy to see why. Bairro Alto’s bohemian reputation doesn’t exclude it from traditional appeal – it’s also connected to the iconic 28 tram, and its hilltop location means spectacular river views. A selection of the city’s best eateries can be found within its characterful streets, whether you’re craving typical Portuguese cuisine or a fragrant Indian dish. If you choose to stay here, be prepared for noise to continue into the early hours – but with plenty of tucked-away alleyways and quiet side streets, it’s possible to find a peaceful nook away from the bustle.