Graça is one of the most beautiful and romantic neighborhoods in Lisbon. It has many narrow streets filled with history and my favorite flea market, which is massive.
As you walk around, sometimes it feels like you are walking in someone’s backyard, but it is part of the experience and so magical.
It’s such a local neighborhood that everyone talks with everyone, and when you eat at the local restaurants, you’ll feel like you’re part of the family.
Graça is one of the most authentic areas in Lisbon. You can experience local food, cool street art, and see some of Lisbon’s best views.
The residential area was a working-class neighborhood, and it lies within the 13th-century wall surrounding Lisbon.
Yet, the real transformation took place during the 19th century with the construction of the Santa Apolonia railway.
Today, Graça continues to showcase the Portuguese atmosphere, giving it a small-town feel even when surrounded by noise and crowds.
The main street in the center is Rua da Graça, where you will find stops on Tram 28.
The highest point in Lisbon is to the west of Graça, and many other viewpoints descend the steep hill into the Mouraria neighborhood.
To the east, you’ll find streets filled with apartment blocks with iron balconies, and the official name of the whole region is not Graça but São Vicente.
The neighborhood also lights up during the Santo Antonio festival, and hundreds of small, cute stores with interesting items pop up.
For me, Graça is famous for the biggest flea market in Lisbon: Feira da Ladra.
9 Things to Do in Graça, Lisbon
I recommend all these things to do in Graça based on my experience. You can explore on your own without this list, and I guarantee you’ll find many hidden gems in this area.
1. Visit Feira da Ladra
Some will argue that Feira da Ladra is in Alfama, but nonetheless, it’s an incredible flea market you just have to experience.
Graça is one of Lisbon’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods.
When I first moved to Lisbon in 2018, I passed this market and walked through it many times without realizing what it was.
Today, I know, and it’s a beautiful market where you can strike a good deal on clothing, Portuguese history, old electronics, and much more.
2. Miradouro da Graça
The Igreja da Graça viewpoint is another thing that Graça is known for.
It’s no secret Lisbon is filled with viewpoints, as it’s a hilly capital, but you just have to see this viewpoint if you’re in Graça.
While it is not the highest point with much range, you can sit for a drink and relax while you enjoy the view at Igreja da Graça.
3. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is a panoramic viewpoint in Graça.
However, it is a steep climb if you walk, so just be aware of it.
When you reach the top, you’ll find many tuk-tuks because they stop here on their trips.
It gets super busy during peak hours, so come early in the morning if you need that Instagrammable photoshoot.
4. Igreja de Convento da Graça
Right next door to Miradouro da Graça, you will find the Baroque Church of the Convent of Graça.
It’s an enormous building that you can easily see miles away. It is one of the oldest churches in Lisbon and has undergone many restorations over the years.
The monastery is now military barracks, and one section displays tiled images of Christian martyrs losing the battle.
A strange fact is that a semi-gruesome room was used as a nursery in the early 20th century.
Tip: Check out the Lisbon Cathedral, which is close to the Graça district.
5. Jardim da Cerca da Graça
Walking down the hill from the church, you find the Jardim da Cerca da Graça garden, which is one of the many green spaces in Graça.
At Jardim da Cerca da Graça, you can get a coffee or beer at the kiosk. Around sunset, it is very popular with the locals who bring their drinks to hang out here.
It is a relaxed viewpoint, but not as high as the others.
If it’s too crowded, there is another peaceful terrace viewpoint: Miradouro dos Barros, between Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and the Jardim da Cerca da Graça.
Tip: Explore my travel guide on the best spots to watch the sunset in Lisbon for other sunset viewpoints.
6. Vila Berta
Vila Berta is a bit of a hidden gem. The old villa and street date back 100 years and belonged to house workers.
The exterior has beautiful iron balconies, tile art, and wall paintings.
It might seem odd based on the description, but it’s worth a visit.
7. Graça Street Art
You can find street art all over Lisbon, but the ones in this neighborhood are special.
Here, you find famous pieces, including a woman holding a gun, which Shepard Fairey painted.
Also, look out for two more works by artists in 2014 that pay tribute to Portugal’s famous literary figures.
If you are walking from Alfama, you will come across a mural about the April 25 Revolution drawn as a famous cartoon character.
8. Igreja de São Vicente de Fora
The Igreja de São Vicente de Fora is one of the most remarkable religious buildings in the neighborhood.
The Baroque church has a collection of Azulejo tile paintings showcasing Fontaine’s fables.
Most of the monastery dates back to the 16th century, and the tiles were added to the paintings in the 17th century. It costs €8 to experience this.
Just a short walk from here, you’ll also find the National Pantheon, where Portugal’s most celebrated figures are honored.
9. Jardim Augusto Gil
Jardim August Gil is another small urban garden on the side of Convento da Graça.
You’ll see a lot of beautiful nature and an ornamental lake with a central feature.
How to Get to Graça
I prefer to walk to Graça from wherever Lisbon is, but it’s a tough walk, so bring comfortable shoes if you do this.
Another option is to take Tram 28. It stops in Graça from everywhere in Lisbon, so it’s super easy to get here.
Best Restaurants in Graça
Graça is known for local cuisine, and they’re incredibly good at it.
I recommend any of these places:
- O Pitéu da Graça: A family restaurant with big portions.
- Damas: A hipster vibe with live music, great food, and a small menu.
- Carvoaria Jacta: This is for meat lovers. Their dry-aged steaks are great.
Where to Stay in Graça
Here, you can find many beautiful hotels or apartments that fit your budget.
- Backpacker option: Sant Jordi Hostel.
- Budget-friendly: Tings Lisbon.
- Apartments: Graça Patio Apartment.
- Luxury: 1906 Lisboa Hotel.
Alternatively, you can check out these incredible hotels in the Alfama near the Graça neighborhood.
Here are the best things to do in Lisbon in February 2026
I’ll send you a list of the best things to do in February and every month thereafter.
It’s based on my personal experience of living and traveling around Lisbon for years. I’m sharing many hidden gems.
Looking for weekly Lisbon tips? Check out my Lisbon Newsletter.
Wrap-Up
Graça is a romantic, authentic neighborhood with a rich history, where you can feel the “old Portugal.”
From the narrow romantic streets and viewpoints to the historic churches and vibrant street art, Graça is a must-see. You should add it to your bucket list.
Whether you explore the neighborhood on foot or via Tram 28, prepare for a beautiful area where you can feel the local charm.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes. There’s a lot to do, and you have to walk up and down the hills in this area.
If you want some general tips about Lisbon, then read this guide.
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