Santos Populares: Discover Lisbon’s Most Authentic Neighborhoods from a Different Perspective
June is the month when Lisbon pulses to the sound of the Marchas Populares, the scent of grilled sardines, and the rhythm of local street parties. It’s time for Santos Populares, a celebration that transforms alleyways, staircases, and viewpoints into vibrant stages of tradition, joy, and togetherness.
By taking a guided tour, you’ll feel a deeper connection to the city through the amazing storytelling of our local guides. From biking adventures to immersive Lisbon tours, make sure you don’t miss out But what if you experienced the Santos from a different perspective? Beyond the Arraiais – that are traditional open-air street parties held throughout Portugal during popular festivals –, there’s a vibrant city, full of history and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Join us on a journey that blends tradition and exploration, combining the festive spirit with unique experiences that only Boost Portugal can offer — sustainable, authentic, and deeply connected to Lisbon.the opportunity of making your trip one to remember.
1. Santos Populares: History and Traditions
The origin of the Santos Populares dates back to ancient pagan rituals celebrating the summer solstice, later integrated into the Christian calendar in honor of three saints: Santo António (Lisbon, June 13th), São João (Porto, June 24th), and São Pedro (various towns in Portugal, June 29th).
In Lisbon, the spotlight is on Santo António — the matchmaker saint — and throughout the month of June, the city’s oldest neighborhoods transform completely. The peak of the festivities takes place on the night of June 12th, when thousands gather to watch the Marchas Populares parade along Avenida da Liberdade, celebrate with friends, and dance until sunrise. At the same time, the true spirit of the Santos is found in the local Arraiais, where residents set up food stalls, cook traditional dishes, serve drinks, and create unforgettable moments of community.
From humorous verses on basil plants (called manjericos) to catchy popular Portuguese music (called pimba music), every detail reflects the soul of these celebrations. But the Santos are more than just parties — they represent cultural identity, neighborhood pride, and the collective memory of a spontaneous, passionate and community-driven Lisbon.
2. The Most Traditional Neighborhoods with the Best Arraiais
Alfama
It’s impossible to talk about the Santos Populares without starting with Alfama — the oldest neighbourhood in the city, and the one that lives these celebrations with the most passion. Streets like Rua dos Remédios and Beco de São Miguel are covered in colourful streamers, lights strung between windows, and the unmistakable sound of overlapping conversations.
The Arraial de São Miguel is one of the most popular — and for good reason: it has tradition, a great atmosphere, and delicious food. But those who know the neighbourhood well will tell you the best moments happen down the narrower alleyways, where sardines go straight from the grill to your plate.
Local tip: if you want to feel the true spirit of Alfama, go early in the evening or around dinnertime. Late-night hours tend to be more crowded and touristy.
Graça
With one of Lisbon’s most iconic viewpoints, Graça is a neighbourhood that blends tradition with modern energy. Its popular arraiais come to life with live concerts, DJs and parties that stretch into the night — especially near the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Streets are decorated with streamers, and the local tasquinhas (small food stands) serve the unmissable sardines, caldo verde and bifanas.
This neighbourhood offers the best of both worlds: the youthful energy of newcomers and the deep-rooted traditions of long-time residents. You’ll easily find tascas with handwritten menus and small community stages with live music — often without fanfare, but full of quality and charm.
Tip: bring comfortable shoes — the uphill climbs are part of the experience, and the best spots are rarely found along the main road.
Mouraria
The birthplace of fado and a true multicultural melting pot, Mouraria stands out for having some of the most eclectic arraiais in Lisbon. It’s where the party picks up pace — and diversity. The arraial blends seamlessly with the neighbourhood’s multicultural residents, and that’s reflected in the music, the food, and the overall atmosphere.
The Arraial da Renovar a Mouraria, held at Largo da Rosa, is already a must-go. It spans several nights, with a varied cultural programme, good organisation, and food from all corners of the world. If you’re looking for something a bit more structured without losing authenticity, this is a great place to start.
And for a quieter moment between two bailaricos (traditional dance parties), head to the Escadinhas da Saúde — a charming little street, often less crowded than the main arteries.
3. The Best Tours to Explore Graça, Alfama and Mouraria from a Different Perspective
Experiencing the Santos Populares on foot is already special. But discovering them with historical context and in comfort can truly transform the experience.
Up the Hills to Alfama — E-Bike Tour by Boost Portugal
Where there are hills, there’s Boost! This electric bike tour is the perfect way to climb to Lisbon’s most charismatic neighborhoods with no effort, in style and in an eco-friendly way.
This tour takes you through the hills of the city, exploring Alfama, Mouraria and Graça. Along the way, you’ll see points of interest like the National Pantheon, the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), and the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, enjoying panoramic views and learning about the city’s rich history.
Ideal for those who want to experience the city actively, without missing the magic of the historical areas.
Old Town Medieval — Segway Tour by Boost Portugal
Another original way to explore historic Lisbon — especially during the Santos — is through the Old Town Medieval Segway Tour. This tour takes you gliding through narrow, history-rich streets, from Alfama to Lisbon Cathedral, passing through areas where popular traditions come to life in June. It’s the perfect experience for those who want to combine fun, historical context, and mobility, without missing out on the energy of the festivals that take over the old neighbourhoods.
Lisbon Old Town Tour — Eco Tuk Tour by Boost Portugal
For those who prefer comfort without losing authenticity, the electric tuk-tuk is the perfect ally. On this tour, an experienced guide takes you through the alleys of Mouraria, crosses Alfama and climbs up to Graça — all with zero emissions and many stories along the way.
This 1.5-hour tour, with stops at iconic places like Largo da Sé, Largo de Santa Luzia and Largo das Portas do Sol, gives you the opportunity to discover the history and curiosities of these neighborhoods, all aboard an electric tuk-tuk.
Perfect for those who want to absorb the spirit of the Santos with comfort, style, and respect for the environment.
This year, experience the Santos like never before — not just by dancing in the streets, but by diving into the soul of Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, guided by those who know them best. Choose your tour, grab a manjerico, and come discover Lisbon with Boost Portugal — where tradition meets unforgettable experience.
