Drinking Sparkling Wine in Europe’s Trendiest Capital

It seems almost impossible to believe that just a few years back, Lisbon was overlooked by many tourists and often was only visited for a night by those going to the southernmost part of Portugal: the Algarve. Over the last few years, however, what is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most beautiful cities has witnessed a huge transformation. Today, it is perhaps the trendiest capital on the continent, having dethroned even Berlin and London. That’s why we could not miss the opportunity to highlight the best places to have a glass of sparkling wine in this fantastic city overlooking the majestic Tagus River.

As we wrote a few months back, Portugal has ideal weather for producing sparkling wines with Bairrada, the oldest region in the country, making the famous espumantes. Moreover, sparkling wines have been added to the regulations of the famous Vinho Verde, making the current offer quite large. With the city becoming a hub where the most exclusive parties in Lisbon are celebrated and increasingly attracting an international audience, the gastronomic offer has diversified and so too have the wine bars. Our favourite is By the Wine due to its extensive selection of wines, including espumantes, as well as because of its fantastic décor and cheese selection. Located in the exclusive area of Chiado, Jose Maria da Fonseca is one of Portugal’s most prestigious wineries, so be sure to plan a visit on your next trip to Lisbon.

Another one of our favorite wine bars is located in the very heart of the trendy Bairro Alto. BA Wine Bar offers excellent European wines that are accompanied with delicious olives, bread, cheeses, and traditional petiscos (tapas). Make sure you book a table in advance, though, as it has become one of the hot spots in the Portuguese capital. Now, if it is Champagne you’re looking for then you’re in for a treat at A Cevicheria, which is in the magnificent area of Príncipe Real and offers delicious ceviches you can see the chef prepare while drinking a glass of sparkling joy. This small yet appealing corner is always packed with locals and visitors looking for a luxurious and summery experience.

The Time Out Market aka Mercado da Ribeira also hosts a few wine bars and together with a large selection of delicate national and international cuisine, it is a fantastic option if you want to grab a glass of espumante with your favorite dish. Following the trend of markets becoming restaurants, Mercado da Ribeira is one of Lisbon’s musts if you’re a foodie and enjoy having many choices at hand.

Other wine repositories worth mentioning include Bebedouro Wine & Food, which is located in the Baixa area, Chafariz do Vinho, Sommelier Lisbon, and the Enoteca de Belém. The latter is a bit further away, but when you visit this area, you can also try the famous pasteis de nata or custard tarts. We’ve even been told that up in the castle, there is a small wine cart serving excellent options by the glass; we’ll have to try it on our next visit. Oh, and if you want to take home your favorite wines, hit the Garrafeira Nacional where you’re likely to find what you’re looking for.