Lisboa shopping is arguably some of the best shopping in Portugal.
The region is a haven for shopaholics, looking to find the best international and national brands or local products such as wines, linens, design ceramics, jewellery, silverware, glass and crystal - In fact many shops are even worth going into for their distinctive decoration alone such as Luvaria Ulises, Ourivesaria Aliança, and Casa das Velas do Loreto.
Some of the best bargains are leather and handmade goods which also make excellent souvenirs. Look for antique and contemporary hand-painted tiles, distinctive regional ceramics and textiles such as tablecloths and embroidery, and don't forget that all gold sold in Portugal is at least 19.2 karats and is one of the best buys in the country, so if you are shopping in Portugal these are things worth investing in.
Parque das Nações - Lisboa, photo by José Manuel
Out of town mega malls are changing the shape of Lisbon shopping and may be gradually strangling many of its smaller shops but the Baixa quarter still thrives. Pricier outlets can be found on Avenida da Liberdade home to well-known international names like Emporium Armani, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Carolina Herrera, Ermenegildo Zegna, D&G, and Escada, and in the attractive Chiado district, to the west above Baixa. Centro Colombo is the largest shopping centre on the Iberian Peninsula.
Lisbon's most famous market is the Feira da Ladra (Thieves' Market), which springs up Monday to Saturday 0900-1900 on the Campo de Santa Clara, packed with all sorts of bric-a-brac. It is Lisbon shopping at its finest and the city's only flea market where you'll find nearly everything you can imagine for sale there. If you truly want to experience the full spectrum of shopping in Lisboa, be sure to make a trip here. For fresh produce and regional specialties head to colorful Ribeira Market which also has a fascinating fish hall.
Finally, before you head off to do some shopping in Lisboa, make sure you get yourself a ‘Lisboa Shopping Card’. They are available from tourist offices, and offer discounts at more than 200 stores in the city.
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