The Discover Portugal blog contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See the Disclaimer for more information.
Enjoy the vibe at the iconic flea market Feira da Ladra Lisbon
Looking for a slice of authentic Lisbon where you can score a vintage leather bag or a 1960s record for a few euros? Then you should definitely add the flea market Feira da Ladra to your Lisbon itinerary!
The Feira da Ladra is literally in my backyard, and I love visiting the Lisbon flea market! It occurs every Tuesday and Saturday, and it’s always nice to visit. It’s great for fashionistas, treasure hunters, vintage lovers and anyone who loves bric-a-brac!
Some early in the day to discover unique finds, or enjoy a relaxing lunch nearby and enjoy the vibe. The atmosphere is always pretty relaxed, and it’s a lovely spot to visit. In this post, I’ll share how to get there, what to look for, and tips to make the most of your trip. Including some cool spots to eat!
Feira da Ladra is held at Campo de Santa Clara, which is within walking distance of the Santa Apolónia metro station. You can also reach the market by bus and tram.
Before or after the vintage market vibes, you can enjoy the Alfama neighbourhood. It’s the oldest area in Lisbon, with highlights such as the National Pantheon, São Jorge Castle, and Lisbon Cathedral.
Feira da Ladra: the historic flea market in Lisbon
Feira da Ladra has a long history. The Lisbon flea market has existed since the 12th century and is full of treasures. It is one of Lisbon’s oldest markets, and Feira da Ladra translates to “Thieves’ Market.”
The flea market happens twice a week. You can come bargain hunting every Tuesday and Saturday from dusk till dawn. Especially in summer, sellers will be there early when the weather is good. There is a fair share of junk, but also fabulous treasures and unique pieces.
You can find vendors selling just in front of the Panteão Nacional. Afterwards, you can enjoy a nice meal at Campo de Santa Clara. Feira da Ladra is close to Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood. There is plenty to see and do around here, so be sure to add this place to your Lisbon itinerary! All visitors love this side of the city!
A couple of Portuguese phrases come in handy here!
- How much does it cost? Quanto é que custa? OR Quanto custa?
- Can you make a better price? Pode fazer um preço melhor?
- Do you have a bag? Tem um saco?
- Do you have other sizes? Existem outros tamanhos?
- Can I try it on? Posso experimentar?
What can you find at the Feira da Ladra flea market?
Feira da Ladra has a lovely atmosphere and is a fun place to walk around. But you might also be interested in buying something at the thieves’ market. Let’s look at what you can buy at the Lisbon flea market.
Antiques at Feira da Ladra
If you’re a fan of antiques and collectables, consider visiting the Alfama district early for some treasure hunting. You might find the occasional bargain, but also plenty of junk. But that is the beauty of flea markets, right?
From early afternoon, it gets busier, and any hidden gems might be gone. Remember to take a look at the art galleries as well, as you might find something special for your home here!
Antiques and collectables you might find include small pieces of furniture, military objects, coins, old photographs, and other vintage treasures. Some prices are fixed, but you may be able to negotiate the cost. Who knows which bargains you can find? I got some really cool things for my home!
⚠️ Be cautious when purchasing old tiles, as they are an integral part of Lisbon’s cultural heritage. Often, they get removed from empty buildings to be sold at Feira da Ladra…. Not good!
There are plenty of places to buy stunning replicas in ceramic shops, such as Surrealejos in Santos and Fábrica de Sant’Anna, Lisbon’s oldest tile factory.
Art and crafts at the thieves market
If you enjoy crafts, take a look at the artwork and posters. Or visit the ceramic store CAMPO Sta CLARA. There are many handmade artisan goods, and numerous traders have shops along the main market hall, Mercado de Santa Clara. There is one stall that sells crystals, and others sell incense sticks and souvenirs.
Tip!
Not sure which souvenirs to buy in Portugal? Check out this travel guide when shopping in Portugal for gifts!
Fashion and accessories
There are also many new items for sale at Feira da Ladra. You can find fashionable clothes as well as shoes. If you’re on the hunt for vintage clothes, you’re also in luck. The Feira da Ladra market has it all! Giving secondhand items a new life is fabulous, and who knows…. You might even find a high-end designer piece!
A new outfit might also need some bling. Thankfully, many stalls sell jewellery, sunglasses, bags and other accessories.
New items come in various sizes, making it easy to find something suitable. They also make for great gifts! You can return from Campo de Santa Clara with a whole new look!
Tip!
Bring some coins and cash, as many traders don’t take credit and debit cards. A cash machine is inside Mercado de Santa Clara, but the building is not always open!
What happens at the Feira da Ladra market when it rains?
If it’s raining in the city, the Feira da Ladra market is less busy. You still see vendors selling, but there are fewer sellers and visitors. Most of the Feira da Ladra market is outdoors, so in the rain, vendors can’t properly display their goods and antiques.
The thieves’ market might start later and/or close early in the afternoon due to rain.
Mercado de Santa Clara
Feira da Ladra is mostly outdoors, but Mercado de Santa Clara is an indoor market hall. Occasionally, special events are held, and the market hall is open.
There are second-hand vinyl markets, Christmas markets, food markets, handicraft markets and much more! Check their Instagram account for the latest news and the agenda.
Tip!
Are you interested in visiting more markets in Lisbon? Check out this guide with famous markets in Lisbon, as well as some local treasures.
When is Feira da Ladra?
The Feira da Ladra Lisbon market takes place every Tuesday and Saturday. It would be best if you arrived early in the day to find some treasures among the antiques and bargains.
In the afternoon, it gets busier, and there are some great restaurants for lunch. The market closes at dawn, and many traders begin packing up an hour before the closing bell.
How to get to the Lisbon flea market?
The Feira da Ladra flea market is located on the edge of Alfama, in the parish of São Vicente. You can easily reach this location by metro. Take the blue metro line to Santa Apolónia Station. From there, it’s only a short walk.
This is the easiest and quickest way to get to the flea market, but you will have to climb a steep hill to reach Campo de Santa Clara! Alternatively, bus line 734 stops nearby. This bus departs from Santa Apolónia Station.
You can also take the famous Tram 28 and Tram 12, which stop nearby (in front of Igreja de São Vicente de Fora). The downside is that there might be a long queue to board the tram, especially Tram 28.
If you walk from downtown Lisbon, you can enjoy the many sights along the way. Or take the metro to Feira da Ladra and walk through Alfama on your way back from the thieves market.
Sights near Feira da Ladra
Feira da Ladra Lisbon is located in the parish of São Vicente, home of the Igreja de São Vicente de Fora. Here, you can find the burial place of the Portuguese Braganza monarchs, and the monastery is covered in azulejo tiles. The view from the roof is stunning and well worth a visit.
Same for the Panteão Nacional. You can climb all the way to the dome for a mesmerising view. The National Pantheon houses the tombs of many famous Portuguese individuals, including the Fado singer Amália Rodrigues. Both sights are a short walk from Feira da Ladra.
The Alfama district is located next to São Vicente. It’s the oldest neighbourhood in the city and a must-see area during your trip to Lisbon! There are many cobbled streets, hidden alleys and colourful buildings.
In Alfama, you can join a night of Fado music. Or discover stunning viewpoints such as Miradouro de Santa Luzia. On top of Alfama Hill, you’ll find the Castle of São Jorge. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset over Lisbon, and the peacocks will welcome you when you arrive!
Restaurants near Feira da Ladra
After hunting for treasures at Feira da Ladra, you might get hungry! Fortunately, there are many restaurants in the vicinity of Campo de Santa Clara.
One of my favourite lunch places is Tabernita, and their Feijoada Brasileira and Bacalhau à Brás are delicious! Copenhagen Coffee Lab is great if you’re looking for a coffee with a sandwich or cake.
Next door, you can find Tazza in Giro, which serves fantastic vegetarian dishes. For dinner, there is nothing better than Santa Clara dos Cogumelos! They make all dishes from mushrooms, including desserts. So good! There are even more places to try in Alfama, so you will certainly not go hungry here!
Hotels in Alfama
The Alfama district is a beautiful area in which to book your accommodation. Feira da Ladra is located just outside this charming neighbourhood. From your hotel, you can read many highlights on foot.
Some fabulous hotels nearby are Vincci Alfama, Dalma Old Town Suites, and the Editory Riverside Santa Apolónia Hotel. Take a look at the map below to find the perfect accommodation for your stay!
FAQ
Is Feira de Ladra worth it?
Feira da Ladra in Lisbon is a fabulous market for bargain hunting and second-hand items. Vendors also sell new items such as clothes and jewellery. Whether you want to buy souvenirs, search for treasures among the junk, or enjoy the vintage vibes, Feira da Ladra is a must-visit destination in Lisbon.
What is the meaning of Feira da Ladra?
Feira da Ladra translates to thieves’ market, and the flea market has existed since the 12th century.
What day is Feira da Ladra?
Feira da Ladra occurs every Tuesday and Saturday at Campo de Santa Clara in Lisbon. It’s close to the National Pantheon, and you can reach it by the blue metro line or Trams 12 and 28.
What is the famous market in Lisbon?
Feira de Ladra is the famous Lisbon flea market. It starts at dusk and ends at dawn. From early afternoon, the so-called thieves’ market becomes busier, and many excellent restaurants are nearby.
Conclusion
Put the flea market Feira da Ladra on your itinerary when visiting Lisbon on a Tuesday or Saturday. The so-called “thieves’ market” has a beautiful atmosphere, and you can find all sorts of treasures among the junk. Discover antiques, the occasional bargain, military objects, furniture, clothes, and handmade artisan goods.
It’s a great spot to hunt for some treasures! The Flea Market Feira da Ladra is the oldest in Lisbon and a must-visit destination during your holiday in Portugal. There are many more places to enjoy shopping in Lisbon, including markets, high-street shops, and malls.
More shopping in Lisbon options:
- 9 Markets in Lisbon; Discover the best places to shop
- Discover the best places for shopping in Lisbon
- Where to find the best shopping malls in Lisbon
- LX Factory Lisbon: Shops, offices, street art and restaurants
- Enjoy the vibe at the iconic flea market Feira da Ladra Lisbon
- 40+ Best souvenirs from Portugal
Pin to read later!
