Bairro Alto is one of the most gay-friendly neighborhoods of Lisbon. As nightlife starts late, you could first go and enjoy a great meal in a restaurant or a cafe and then move to the clubs for a drink. The number of gay and lesbian hangouts is increasing by the day and these pages offer a peek into some of the best gay bars and nightclubs in Lisbon.
1) Purex
Purex is one of the largest clubs for lesbians. One unique feature of this outlet is that the décor is built out of recycled material, like the couches from a rich college bus and the lamps assembled out of rubbish leftovers. This trendy bar with orange doors attracts a mixed crowd, especially on weekends when the DJ spins exciting electronica notes. They also organize the Add-Wood Festival, a celebration of the burlesque and ugly in art.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and PresleyJesus
2) Chueca
Chueca is a small and very stylish bar, named after the famous gay district in Madrid. The rooms are decorated in orange, white, and black. The interior includes black and white vintage photos on the walls. This is the perfect place to pop in and have one or two drinks. Chueca is one of the coolest hangouts in Bairro Alto.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Tobyotter
3) Portas Largas
Portas Largas is one of the busiest and most animated bars in the neighborhood. It is a spacious old tavern with a casual, down-to-earth atmosphere. Most prefer to grab a drink and stand outside and watch the people passing by. The decor is simple with tables, chairs and wooden benches. It is open daily from 7 pm to 3:30 am.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and ansik
4) Fragil
Fragil is one of the gayest clubs in the city and is considered to be "straight-friendly". The entrance has some blue neon lights and a vigilant door attendant, but no sign indicating the location of this place. The club devotes itself to counterculture music, gay men and women, and a scattering of heterosexuals who appreciate the cutting-edge music and permissive atmosphere.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and diongillard
5) Finalmente
Finalmente is a very popular, small gay club located in the Principe Real region of Lisbon. There is a bar area that offers hard drinks and a small stage upon which drag shows allow local artists to strut their stuff. It can get quite crowded during the wee hours of the morning.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and markhillary
6) Bar 106
Bar 106 was opened in 1990 and is located in the Principe Real region of Lisbon. This is a popular bar, a rendezvous point, and a watering hole for gay men. Expect a simple, restrained decor, a busy bar area, and enough space for meetings and hangouts. It is open daily from 9 PM until 2 AM.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and preater
7) Água No Bico
Located in the Principe Real District, Água No Bico is a gay club in a quiet residential area and you must ring the bell to get in. This bar and dance club combines aspects of an English pub with the futuristic trappings of a gay club. A popular hangout for gays of all ages, the place serves drinks at very reasonable prices.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and marfis75