Hidden Flavors of the Hillside: Mouraria & Graça
From$135
5 hours – 6 hours
Max 7 people
Lisbon, Portugal
About this activity
On this afternoon food tour in Lisbon, we’ll explore the old and the new in the kitchens of Mouraria and Graça, which are home to historic and scenic backstreets.
Highlights
- Features fantastic views of Lisbon's hills
- Wine tasting
- Features seafood
- Explore the old and the new cuisine
Full description
We will go in search of this enticing district’s taste of both tradition and change. We’ll begin with the daily specials at an age-old tasca, a quintessential Lisbon experience. Up the hill, we’ll visit a new school taberna where the chef/owner applies unorthodox technique to the fish and seafood traditions of Portugal. Later, we’ll get a taste of spanking fresh clams, when in season, and the famous prego, steak sandwich, at a workingman’s lunch counter. There will be house-made piripiri sauce that made its way here from West Africa, ancient garum sauce that has been produced here since Roman times and many more saucy bites along the way. We’ll stop by a community-run kiosk for a bite of something sweet and finish our odyssey at an old neighborhood association located in a rundown palace where we will have a sip of chilled muscatel while enjoying the timeless view of the sun setting behind the castle on the hill.
In Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods of Mouraria and Graça, where scenic little streets spread out, web-like, in the shadows of St. George Castle, the smell of change (and, of course, garlic) is in the air. Though a long neglected corner of the city, these days many old buildings are rapidly being renewed here, new communities are sinking roots and new restaurants are opening, challenging the stodgy and rough identity that the area is famous for. After all, this is where fado – Lisbon’s trademark musical style – was born in seedy 19th century taverns. Here is one of the bastions of the annual St. Anthony celebrations, where sardines are grilled on street corners. Here also is an incredibly diverse population of old locals, new immigrants and Portuguese bohemians living as neighbors. Here can be found the flavors so integral to the city’s traditions – right alongside delicious evidence that this place is in a state of transition.
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour through Plaka and Anafiotika neighborhoods
- Tastings of traditional Greek dishes and local specialties
- Wine tasting featuring small Greek producers
- Transportation to and from the meeting point
Meeting point
Start Location
Intendente, Lisbon, Portugal
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English; proficiency is recommended.
- Some stops may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to stairs and uneven terrain.
- The tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the cobblestone streets.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater as evenings can be cool.
- Ensure you have a valid ID if you plan to participate in wine tasting.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts
More than one week before the beginning of the activity: 90% Refund Less than one week before the beginning of the activity: 50% Refund Less than 72 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: No Refund