Audio GuidePink Street

Vivid pink promenade bursting with street art, quirky bars, and a lively nightlife in a once-gritty district.

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Welcome to Lisbon’s Pink Street, officially Rua Nova do Carvalho. Just steps from the river and Time Out Market, you’ll feel the pink pavement under your feet. Painted in two thousand thirteen, this vibrant color was part of a project to revitalize Cais do Sodré, historically known for its sailor-filled red-light bars. Architect José Adrião and Absolut vodka company teamed up to create this artistic urban renewal, transforming the area into a lively, safer spot for everyone.

Cais do Sodré was not always this bright. In the eighteen hundreds, it was a rough place, blending high society with port workers and sailors seeking adventure. Over the years, nightclubs like Jamaica, Europa, and Tokyo emerged. Bars such as Sol e Pesca, with its quirky canned fish theme, and MusicBox, known for its late-night vibe, became staples. Pensão Amor stands out for its transformation from a "love hotel" to a trendy bar and creative venue.

The street’s evolution from gritty to trendy has mixed reviews. Today, you’ll find classic bars, stylish restaurants, and lively street art. During June, rainbow umbrellas hang overhead to celebrate LGBTQIA+ Pride. On weekends, the area buzzes with people. In the afternoons, though, it offers a more relaxed feel.

Locals have mixed feelings about the changes. There is increased business and safety, but also higher rents and louder nights. Some feel it has lost its authenticity. Others see it as a revival of Lisbon’s creativity. Walk down Pink Street to see a city constantly reinventing itself. Visit in the afternoon for fewer crowds, or come at night to experience its energetic nightlife in full swing.

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