Queer Lisbon - A Treasure Hunt in LGBT History
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Every Tuesday and Saturday (contact me for other days/dates) this fun tour brings Lisbon’s queer history to life through an adventure (in English) around the main gay-scene neighbourhoods of Bairro Alto and Principe Real. Hear fascinating stories of love and drama that bring queer history to life as we visit the sights of Lisbon’s fascinating, scandalous (sometimes bizarre!) queer history and the modern gay scene. And we finish with a drink at a gay hotel.
Plus, you get a copy of 'Alex's LONG LIST - guide to LGBTQ Lisbon & Portugal' - over 120 pages of essential information, written by locals & updated every month. 'Alex's LONG LIST' features venues, maps, queer events, gay beach guide (and how to get there), nightclubs, bars, saunas, Women's venues and events, relaxed bars, crazy cabaret venues, Lisbon on a budget, Trans/non-binary spaces, community/sports/social groups, health services, etc
Available options
Queer Lisbon - A Treasure Hunt in LGBT History
What's included
Discover the modern gay scene as you stroll from one stop to the next
Meet new friends in the group and we finish in a gay hotel lounge
Hear fun stories, scandals and anecdotes of Lisbon's fascinating queer history
Get your PDF copy of ‘Alex’s LONG LIST' updated guide to LGBTQ Lisbon (Normally 15 Euros)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We start with introductions in the gardens of in Jardim Principe Real and then begin touring the historic sites of Lisbon weird and wonderful queer history!
2
Stop 2
The Monument to the victims of homophobia. A sober stop on our tour, which acknowledges the past (which we will learn more about) but also celebrates the progress to Lisbon's thriving queer scene today!
3
Lisbon Pride and 'EuroPride'. This square is the starting point for Lisbon Pride (and will be for 'EuroPride' 2025!)- Find out how Lisbon Pride is unique and why it matters; and how EuroPride is coming to Lisbon!
4
Stop 4
Managing the HIV pandemic. Hear about Lisbon's success in managing HIV/AIDS - and get essential health service info for queer men - and women.
5
Everyone should know this long-standing dance venue for a queer night out in Lisbon. This place, and the neighbouring lesbian venues, have stories to tell about queer nights out in Lisbon.
6
Stop 6
Stories from cruising in the 1950s parks, that 'thing' in the Botanical Gardens, 'offending morals' and how men dodged the (hopeless! :-) ) police!
7
Stop 7
You need to know about Lisbon's largest queer nightclub - Two floors with two different vibes. Since 1980!
Lisbon knows - this place can make you gay!
8
Stop 8
Stories from Lisbon's first lesbian bar - 'O Gato Verde' (The Green Cat) - a Lisbon institution with heaps of history!
9
Stop 9
The first drag bar in Lisbon!
The 1974 revolution liberated enthusiasm for drag - Until it didn't...! Hear the rise and fall story of Lisbon's first drag queen.
10
Leave a message for friends at Bar 106 - A great place to know.
11
Where the Bears are (part 1)!
12
The best (and oldest) drag in town - 'Finally!' Essential to know the different shows and different times.
13
Where the Bears are (part 2).
Bear Pride, beach clubs, party nights, a sauna and sports sponsorship...
14
Stop 14
Legal Challenges at the Constitutional Courts!
Hear about Portugal's long journey from dictatorship values to Constitutional Protection for LGBTQ rights.
15
Stop 15
'Long Live Homosexuality'.
The first 'homosexual manifesto' - early steps suppressed, and eventual success.
16
Stop 16
From love-nests to luxury apartments and modern saunas.
The steamy story of the ‘Two Fernandes’ - 19Century scandal and saunas!
17
Stop 17
A dance floor for everyone, run by women - plus vagina jewellery!
18
Stop 18
The right woman to kill your ox!
Who was this amazing women who confounded conventions and dismissed nosey journalists in the 1940s.
19
Stop 19
19th Century scandal! The Marquis of Valada naked in the arms of a common soldier! Disgraced politicians, political blackmail and ultimate survival.
20
Secrets inside my bra!
Bisexual jazz-legend Josephine Baker dodges the secret police and spying in wartime Lisbon.
21
Stop 21
'Women in love - but not with men'!
Queer fiction, censorship and compromised censors.
22
Stop 22
The Portuguese Inquisition provides a window into queer history - Sex in church! Lesbian nuns, a ‘demonic penis’ and a Trans love story - four stories of bold determination that have survived from the 16th, 17th & 18th Centuries!
23
Stop 23
“I love you because I love you"
Fernand Pessoa - a great writer who didn't know what tomorrow would bring, but is now recognised for his gay writing and is reclaimed.
24
Stop 24
Late Birds Hotel - our final stop in the lounge/ bar/ garden/ pool of Lisbon's largest gay hotel. (Did you bring your swimming costume!?).
Pub-quiz and prizes.
What's not included
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
5.0
59 reviews
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Age who can book this experience: 16+
Legal drinking age: 18+
Meeting point
Meeting point: On the corner of the garden square of Principe Real; outside number 18, Praça do Príncipe Real; by the children's play corner.
We are easy to find – just look for the Rainbow Umbrella.
Important notes
Meeting point: In the garden square of Principe Real; outside number 18, Praça do Príncipe Real; by the children's play corner. Googlemaps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XAp899ch94EuBksA6
We are easy to find – just look for the Rainbow Umbrella.
About Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm climate. With its charming streets, historic trams, and breathtaking viewpoints, Lisbon offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy.
Top Attractions
Belém Tower
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century tower is an iconic symbol of Lisbon's Age of Discoveries.
Historical
1-2 hours
€6
Alfama District
Lisbon's oldest district, known for its narrow, winding streets, Fado music, and historic charm.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, attractions may have entry fees
Sintra
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sintra is a romantic town with stunning palaces and castles.
Historical
Full day
Varies by attraction, around €10-€15 per site
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bacalhau à Brás
Shredded codfish with eggs, potatoes, and onions
Main Dish
Contains fish and eggs
Pastel de Nata
Custard tart with a flaky pastry crust
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs
Francesinha
A sandwich with meat, cheese, and a beer-based sauce
Main Dish
Contains meat, cheese, and gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking in Sintra
Surfing in Ericeira
Parasailing in Cascais
Beach lounging in Costa da Caparica
Spa day in a luxury hotel
Picnic in Jardim da Estrela
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending Fado performances
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time, WET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Lisbon is generally safe, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Humberto Delgado Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Santa Apolónia, Oriente
By bus
Sete Rios, Jardim do Campo Grande, Gare do Oriente
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and clean, with four lines connecting major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Alfama
Baixa
Bairro Alto
Day trips
Sintra
25 km from Lisbon • Full day
A romantic town with stunning palaces, castles, and lush gardens.
Cascais
30 km from Lisbon • Half day to full day
A charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, historic sites, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Óbidos
80 km from Lisbon • Full day
A medieval town with a well-preserved castle, narrow streets, and charming shops.
Festivals
Santos Populares • June 13th
Festival dos Oceanos • June to September
Arraial do Alfoz • June to September
Pro tips
- Visit the Time Out Market for a variety of local and international cuisines
- Take a day trip to Sintra and Cascais for a mix of history and beach relaxation
- Explore the LX Factory for a unique shopping and dining experience
- Ride the historic Tram 28 for a scenic tour of the city
- Visit the MAAT museum for a blend of art, architecture, and technology
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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