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What is it? Discovering Alfama blindfolded is an idea suggested by Lisbon Walker, in collaboration with ACAPO – The Portuguese association for the blind and visually impaired. Why go? The tour is called Lisboa Sensorial (sensory Lisbon), and he objective is to sense the smells, noises and flavours of Lisbon’s most typical neighbourhood, with your eyes covered – and a guide. It lasts an hour and a half. Don’t miss: Book in advance (they need 10 people minimum) on www.lisbonwalker.com

What is it? Mesa de Frades, the azulejo-lined former chapel of the Quinta da Dona Rosa, a palace built by Dom João V for one of his lovers, is a fado’s house owned by guitarra player Pedro de Castro. Why go? It has a reputation of being the fadistas’ canteen and you never know who might roll up in the wee hours and do an impromptu performance. The food is Portuguese, prettified – bacalhau com natas with parmesan and the like – but really not up to the quality of the fado. Don’t miss: Booking is a must for dinner. If you drop in later (and can squeeze in) there’s no minimum spend.

What is it? It's one of the city's most interesting venues, with a regular programme of rock bands, electronic live acts, singer-songwriters and DJ sets (all night on Fridays). Why go? The managers of this key club in Cais do Sodré have music industry connections and exploit them creditably. Note that some shows may start as late as 2am; for details, check the website, which is comprehensive. The space has an underground feel and look (it's literally beneath steep Rua do Alecrim) and is located in what was once one of Lisbon's seediest streets - and is now one of its buzziest at night. Don’t miss: You’re at the nightlife district, enjoy the rhythm of the night.

What is it? For over 30 years, Joaquim José Cortiço dedicated his life to collecting and studying industrial Portuguese tiles, which belonged to factories that went out of business. Today, it’s his grandchildren that continue to give life to his project with Cortiço & Netos, where you can find several ceramic tiles that tell its history from the 60’s onwards. Why go? Unlike other azulejo shops listed in this guide, this place stocks mostly mass-produced tiles. But with hundreds of discontinued lines, it's a veritable museum of style through the decades and a great place to pick up one-off decorative bargains. For years, the owner snapped up stock from factories as they closed; now his grandchildren (the netos of the name) are busy selling it. Don’t miss: Buy one now while you can!

What is it? This place inspired by Prohibition-era bars in the US has a clandestine air, not least because it is in basement and you must ring the bell to be let in. Why go? Head up Rua do Salitre, and stop when you see a red frog at the door. Ring the bell, descend the staircase and you’ll find a space – Red Frog – that recreates the secret atmosphere of bars in the US Prohibition era. The drinks list was drawn up by an expert and has lots of very creative, very good and well mixed cocktails. Don’t miss: It is impossible to recommend one, because the list is constantly changing. The best thing is to leave it to the barman’s imagination.

What is it? You can find Rive-Rouge, the heir to Lux Frágil, at Time Out Market. Why go? The design is unusual with red lighting, metallic structures, high tables and benches here. It’s not massive, but don’t despair, there’s still plenty of space for booty-shaking when the music starts. Don’t miss: Its signature cocktails!

What is it? Tejo Bar is an alternative, informal place with a handful of tables with low seats and shelves loaded with books and board games. Why go? Its Brazilian owner, nicknamed Mané do Café, is an amateur artist, novelist and poet, and presides over daily readings. Anyone may strum the house guitar (but don’t clap: patrons instead rub their hands together to show their appreciation, thus minimising noise). The bar has many regulars – who help themselves to drinks, noting down what they’ve taken – but it’s also a magnet for students and musicians. Don’t miss: Mané is incapable of throwing people out, so the place sometimes closes after 5am.