Colours Of Lisbon: Festas De Lisboa

Inside the city's whirlwind, month-long celebrations

A month-long series of street parties and parades, the Festas de Lisboa signals the start of the summer festivals in Lisbon.

Quiet, historic neighbourhoods across the city shed their sleepy facades and awake with live music, dancing and celebrations that last into the early hours. The festivities reach their pinnacle on the eve of St Anthony’s Day, which is on 13th June. Every corner of the city is swept along in the celebrations, but the best parties can be found in Alfama and Mouraria – the special sunset parade along the Avenida da Liberdade is a definite highlight.

On St Anthony’s Day itself, many of the roads are closed, the aroma of grilled sardines – which are traditionally eaten as part of the celebrations – fills the city, and the sound of Fado music drifts from what seems like every doorway. Lisbon’s patron saint also presides over matchmaking, so many of the city’s lovelorn and hopeful take the opportunity to pray for a partner. This tactic clearly pays off, given the mass marriages (dubbed St Anthony’s Weddings) which take place in the wake of the celebrations.

If you’re visiting, be sure to buy your sweetheart a “manjerico”, the traditional plant of the Festas de Lisboa. They usually feature a paper-made carnation and a paper flag with a verse about love. Tip: don’t smell the manjerico directly; brush it with your hand and smell your hand instead. This way it will live longer, so they say…

Explore this City

Read More

Bohemian Fantasy: C´est La Vie New Year's Eve

Bohemian Fantasy: C´est La Vie New Year's Eve

Celebrate and toast to new beginnings with Corinthia Lisbon on New Year’s Eve. Enjoy an immersive experience as we transport our guests back to the French Bohemian era, capturing the spirit of the iconic Moulin Rouge musical. Expect an unforgettable evening filled with glamour, fine dining, and live entertainment.

Read More

Read More

Family Escape

Family Escape

The little extras are on us, with dazzling days of discovery including savings on entry to Lisbon Zoo and time in our swimming pool

Read More

Read More

suite life

suite life

We know it is the little things, that make life sweeter, and they are on us when you choose this offer

Read More

View All Offers