Cais do Sodré district in Lisbon is one of my favorite spots to enjoy a meal at the Time Out Market.
Still, it is also a vibrant and edgy place known for its artisanal scene, historic docks, and nightlife.
But that is not all. Here, you can find Lisbon’s central public transport hub.
The district has loads to offer and see, even if it is not as touristy as Belem or Alfama.
More About Cais do Sodré Neighborhood
Sodré is a family name from the 15th century that had businesses in the area and linked to the maritime trade.
With time, the area from the waterfront and two blocks north became known as “Cais do Sodré,” or “Sodré’s Wharf.
Today, it is essential to link Lisbon to Cacilhas by Ferry. Furthermore, it is also the central transport hub for buses, trains, and metro stations.
Across from the Cais do Sodré station, you find a square named after the Duke of Terceira, Praça Duque da Terceira, with a bronze statue of him.
While Cais do Sodré is not an attention-grabbing tourist attraction like Alfama, Bairro Alto, or Belem, it is now one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Lisbon.
The district is a center for nightlife as it has the famous Pink Street, restaurants with the best Portuguese cuisine, bars, and clubs.
During the day, you are artisans to modern creatives hanging out at the Tejo Estuary waterfront, and then you have the varied food stalls at the Time Out Market.
Things to Do and See in Cais do Sodre
1. Ribeira das Naus Promenade
To the west of the Praça Duque da Terceira square is a large dome where the main food market (Tim Out Market) is located. Next to it is another square, Praça Dom Luís.
You can enjoy a terrace with palms and other trees overlooking the 19th-century Marquis of Sá da Bandeira statue.
2. Mercado da Ribeira and Time Out Market
Head to the Mercado da Ribeira, one of Lisbon’s leading food markets, which has been in operation since 1892. Walk through the market to find fresh fish, vegetables, fruit, and more.
The famous Time Out Market is in the same building. It offers some of the best international and Portuguese cuisine under one roof, and you can sample some of the most delicious 😋 food and drinks here.
3. Pink Street (Rua Nova)
Behind the market is Rua Nova do Carvalho, once the red light district. Today, Rua Nova is known as Pink Street because the pavements are pink and lined with clubs and bars.
Enjoy the nightlife and pay for an old fishing shop. Sol e Pesca turned into a bar visit. Explore the Cais do Sodré district and street as it has disco bars and late-night clubs.
In Cais do Sodré, you do not find mega-clubs, so you need to visit Santos instead. Another place that has a lively nightlife is Bairro Alto.
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4. São Paulo Square
A church at the square with the same name was built after the devastating earthquake in 1755.
The original church was destroyed, and the new church has a baroque interior. Its ceiling is covered with monumental paintings, and the walls are lined with white, blue, and pink stone.
There is a beautiful stucco by Giovanni Grossi, an 18th-century baroque plasterer. Around the square, you will find outdoor seating, and several bars will be nearby.
5. Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga (MNAA)
Another great place to visit is the MNAA in Santos, which is not far from Cais do Sodré. The museum has a status equivalent to that of the National Gallery in London, the National Gallery in Berlin, and the Prado in Madrid.
6. Museums
The Puppet Museum is in the historic Convento das Bernadras, a short distance from Cais do Sodré Station. It is dedicated to puppets.
The Museu das Comunicações exhibits the history of the post office and telecommunication. Lastly, you can visit Museu da Farmácia to see the history of medicine in Portugal.
See pursuits of 18th-century apothecary and early 20th-century pharmacy.
Hot Tip🔥: Explore these wonderful museums in Lisbon.
7. Ribeira das Naus
Visit the newly constructed beachfront and promenade between Cais do Sodré and the Praça do Comércio. Ribeira das Naus is a rejuvenated area comprising the waterfront, where you can sunbathe on a grassed area.
8. Cais do Sodré Train Station
Even if you do not take Lisbon day trips, the Cais do Sodré train station is a must-visit. If you do decide to take a day trip, you can travel along the coastline with the train to:
- Carcavelos
- São Pedro do Estoril
- Praia da Conceição
All of these beaches you find within reach at Cascais.
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Nightlife in Cais do Sodré
There is no shortage of bars and clubs in Cais do Sodré, most located around Pink Street.
So you can visit this popular street during the day for a day of browsing and head back at night for a vibrant atmosphere as the street comes to life.
Some clubs that come to mind are as follows:
- Pensão Amor is a cocktail bar found in a former brothel that is a lively venue with music.
- O Bom O Mau e O Vilão is a lively yet trendy cocktail bar with live music.
- By The Wine is a promotional wine bar with a fascinating interior decoration of wine bottles.
- Crafty Corner is the place to go and enjoy Portuguese craft beer.
Where to Shop and Eat in Cais do Sodré
There are many shops in Cais do Sodré, but a standout is Fabrica Sant’Anna, which has been selling azulejo tiles to fine ceramics since 1741.
There are several outlets in Lisbon. Then there is Storytailors, a former 18th-century brick warehouse that sells designer clothes.
At Mercado da Ribeira Time Out Market in Cais do Sodré, you can find the best Portuguese cuisine, fine wine, and craft beers. It is near Cais do Sodré Station.
Where to Stay in Cais do Sodré
You can find different places to stay around Cais do Sodré and Santos. These include:
- 262 Boutique Hotel
- Cais do Sodré Guesthouse
- Corpo Santo Lisbon Historic Hotel
- LX Boutique Hotel
- Lost Lisbon Cais House
How to Get to Cais do Sodré
Cais do Sodré is a central transport hub in Lisbon, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city. Here are some common ways to get there:
1. By Metro
Green Line (Linha Verde): Take the Green Line (Linha Verde) directly to Cais do Sodré station. This line connects to many other metro lines, making it easy to transfer if you’re from a different area of Lisbon.
2. By Train
If you’re coming from the western suburbs or Cascais, take the Cascais Line (Linha de Cascais).
3. By Bus
Several bus lines pass through Cais do Sodré, including 728, 706, and 736. Check the local bus schedules for exact routes and timings.
4. By Tram
You can take the famous Tram 15 from Praça da Figueira or Praça do Comércio. This tram goes to Belém and passes through Cais do Sodré.
Hot Tip🔥: Check out my detailed guide on traveling from Lisbon to Belem to plan your trip.
5. By Ferry
If you’re coming from the south bank of the Tagus River, you can take a ferry to the district from Cacilhas, Seixal, or Montijo.
6. By Walking
If you’re already in the city center, the district is within walking distance of popular areas like Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Praça do Comércio.
Hot Tip🔥: Check out how walkable Lisbon is in my article and get helpful tips.
Wrap-Up: Cais do Sodré
Cais do Sodré is a vibrant and exciting neighborhood in Lisbon, offering a blend of history, art, entertainment, and delicious cuisine.
Whether you’re interested in exploring the historic docks, enjoying the nightlife, or simply relaxing by the waterfront, this neighborhood has something for everyone.
Its central location and easy access to public transportation are the perfect place to immerse yourself in Lisbon’s authentic charm.
So, why not plan a visit and discover the neighborhood’s beauty for yourself?
