Last Updated on 10 December 2023 by Vanessa
Are you a cat enthusiast with just 24 hours to spend in Lisbon and wondering about cat-friendly activities? While Lisbon might not be famous for its cat-centric landmarks, there are a few spots where feline encounters are possible while immersing yourself in the city’s attractions. Cats often roam various neighborhoods, particularly within the more traditional and residential pockets.
Here’s a selection of places where I have personally met a lot of cats, and they are all in renowned landmarks and attractions:
One day, many cats: feline-focused fun in Lisbon in 24 hours
1 Alfama District
The Alfama District is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon. I loved strolling through the local, charming roads and discovering places such as the Casa dos Bicos, the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, and the Castle of São Jorge. One of the particularities about the Alfama is the smell of grilled sardines wafting its way through the meandering streets. That’s probably why cats like the Alfama just as much, because it’s not uncommon to come across a good number of felines lounging on doorsteps or exploring the alleyways.
2 Miradouro de Santa Luzia
If you are already in the Alfama District, be sure to add Miradouro de Santa Luzia to your list of places to visit. This is one of Lisbon’s best viewpoints.
While the cats are not as big an attraction as the miradouro’s view of the Alfama and the Tagus river, they are sure to make you smile as they will be enjoying this stunning sight alongside you.
Location: Largo Santa Luzia, 1100-487 Lisboa, Portugal.
3 Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
The Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is another wonderful viewpoint in Lisbon that offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. While exploring the area, you might also notice a few feline companions leisurely sharing the surroundings with the visiting tourists.
Location: Largo Monte, 1170-107 Lisboa, Portugal.
4 Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)
Situated in the captivating Alfama district, Lisbon Cathedral (also known as Sé de Lisboa) boasts a rich historical legacy. Dating back to the 12th century, it stands as a symbol of Lisbon’s enduring heritage. The cathedral’s presence is further enhanced by the quaint streets that envelop it, creating an enchanting atmosphere that beckons exploration.
Amidst this historical backdrop, the presence of cats contributes to the area’s distinctive charm, adding a touch of local character to the surroundings.
Location: Largo da Sé 1, 1100-585 Lisboa, Portugal.
5 Jardim da Cerca da Graça
This garden is a peaceful spot where you might find cats relaxing under the shade of trees or wandering around.
Jardim da Cerca da Graça in Lisbon is a public garden and park located in the Graça neighborhood. The garden features well-maintained paths, landscaped areas, benches, and viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of Lisbon’s historic center and the Tagus River. It’s a popular spot for leisurely walks and picnics.
Location: Calçada do Monte 46, 1100-362 Lisboa, Portugal.
6 Feira da Ladra Flea Market
This famous flea market, also known as the “Thieves’ Market,” is one of the oldest in Lisbon and has a history dating back to the 13th century. Held in the Alfama district, the market is a treasure trove of items, ranging from clothing and accessories to ceramics, books, vinyl records, and more. Cats oftentimes roam around the market, adding to its eclectic atmosphere.
Location: Campo de Santa Clara, 1100-472 Lisboa, Portugal.
7 Bica District
The Bica neighborhood is a historic and charming district nestled in the heart of Lisbon. It is renowned for its steep, narrow streets, adorned with colorful houses and decorative tiles (azulejos), creating a picturesque atmosphere that appeals to both locals and tourists. This area thrives with a lively mix of residential buildings, shops, cafés, bars, and small businesses, particularly in the evenings when the atmosphere is vibrant with social activity.
Because Lisbon is built on seven hills, there are several funiculars that take you to the top or the bottom of those hills. The yellow funicular Elevador da Bica was certainly the most charming one and the neighborhood’s signature feature.
Bica is home to many stray and feral cats that find solace in various corners, gardens, and alleyways. The neighborhood’s cozy nooks and crannies attract those feline residents seeking both shelter and interaction. While exploring Bica, you might come across cats in quieter and residential areas.
8 Iberian Lynx sculpture by Bordalo II (Artur Bordalo)
The Iberian Lynx sculpture by Bordalo II (Artur Bordalo) is part of the artist’s “Trash Animals” series, in which he repurposes discarded materials such as car parts, scrap metal, and other trash to create thought-provoking animal sculptures that highlight environmental and ecological concerns. The “Iberian Lynx” sculpture serves as a visual commentary on the endangered status of the Iberian lynx, a critically endangered wild cat species native to the Iberian Peninsula.
The Iberian Lynx sculpture can be found at Rossio dos Olivais, 1990-221 Lisboa, Portugal.
Apart from the Iberian Lynx sculpture, Lisbon is known for its vibrant street art scene, boasting more murals than many other cities. Several of these murals and graffiti depict cats, so keep an eye out for these artistic feline representations.
9 Aqui Há Gato Cat Café
Aqui Ha Gato cat café in Lisbon offers a unique experience where visitors can enjoy refreshments while being surrounded by playful and friendly feline companions. The café provides a dedicated space for cats to roam and interact with patrons, creating a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. Expect to find comfortable seating, cat toys, and the opportunity to engage with rescue cats in a welcoming environment. It’s an ideal spot for cat lovers to unwind, enjoy beverages, and connect with these adorable furry residents.
Location: Calçada da Estrela, Nº 74 A, 1200-665 Lisbon, Portugal.
Update: Aqui Ha Gato cat café has permanently closed its doors. It was later replaced by another cat café – Pet & Tea (Av. de Paris 17A, 1000-191 Lisboa, Portugal) – but that one, too, is now closed.
10 Cemitério dos Prazeres (Pleasures Cemetery)
One of the cemeteries in Lisbon that is known for having a significant population of cats is the Cemitério dos Prazeres. The cemetery’s name, “Prazeres,” translates to “Pleasures” in English. It is believed to have been named after a nearby convent that had previously existed in the area. This historic cemetery, located in the Estrela neighborhood, was established in 1833 during a time of significant social and political change in Portugal.
Location: Cemitério dos Prazeres, Calçada dos Prazeres, 1200-354 Lisbon, Portugal.
Conclusion – Can you visit Lisbon in 24 hours?
Here you have it: a list of 10 cat-centric activities to enjoy in Lisbon during your 24-hour stay.
Please note that this guide exclusively caters to fellow feline enthusiasts. While I’ve omitted mentioning other notable attractions like the Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries) in Belém, the Elevador de Santa Justa, Lisbon Zoo, and the Arco Triunfal archway, it’s important to acknowledge that Lisbon offers a wealth of experiences that extend beyond this guide. A mere 24 hours is hardly sufficient to truly explore the city’s richness; even 36 or 48 hours fall short. I recommend dedicating at least three days, if not more, to immerse yourself in Lisbon’s myriad offerings.
For an extended adventure, consider pairing your Lisbon visit with a trip to Porto, a Portuguese city boasting even more cat-friendly activities.
If this concise guide has sparked your interest, why not share it with fellow cat-loving friends and on your social platforms? Who knows, your enthusiasm might inspire them to join you on this delightful journey.
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