Cais do Sodré Guide: What It’s Like to Live in Cais do Sodré, Lisbon

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Cais do Sodré, a riverside district in Lisbon, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Once known for its seedy reputation, the area now boasts a thriving nightlife scene, with live music, burlesque, and tapas bars. In 2022, Time Out Global even ranked Cais do Sodré as the second coolest neighbourhood in the world. But is this vibrant area a good place to call home? Let’s explore the pros and cons of living in Cais do Sodré.

Pros:

  1. Fantastic connectivity: Cais do Sodré is well-connected, with a train line to Cascais (allowing you to reach the beach in just 20 minutes), a metro station, and numerous bus routes.
  2. Proximity to amenities: The area is close to a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and the famous Time Out Market, ensuring that you’ll never run out of dining and entertainment options.
  3. Waterfront access: Living in Cais do Sodré means being close to the waterfront, which is perfect for walking, running, or simply enjoying the views.
  4. Excellent market: The fruit and vegetable market next to the Time Out Market is a gem, offering affordable and high-quality produce, fish, and meat.

Cons:

  1. Noise levels: As a popular nightlife destination, Cais do Sodré can be noisy, especially on weekends. The noise level varies depending on the location of your apartment and its soundproofing.
  2. Crowded streets: On Friday and Saturday nights, the streets can be bustling with revellers, and you may encounter people trying to sell fake drugs.
  3. Limited supermarket options: While there are some supermarkets in the area, they may not be as large as those found outside the city centre, which means you might need to rely on deliveries for some items.

Living in Cais do Sodré offers a unique experience, with its vibrant atmosphere, excellent connectivity, and proximity to amenities. However, it’s essential to consider the potential downsides, such as noise levels and crowded streets, before making the decision to call this neighbourhood home. Ultimately, the suitability of Cais do Sodré as a place to live depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle.

What’s In the Neighbourhood

  • Time Out Market: One of the main attractions in Cais do Sodré is the Time Out Market, a food hall featuring some of Lisbon’s best restaurants, bars, and shops. Here, you can sample a wide variety of local and international cuisines, from traditional Portuguese dishes to sushi and pizza. The market also hosts events and live music performances, making it a lively spot to visit day or night.
  • Pink Street: Rua Nova do Carvalho, also known as “Pink Street,” is a iconic street in Cais do Sodré. In 2011, the street underwent a makeover and was painted a vibrant shade of pink. This street is home to numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for nightlife enthusiasts.
  • Mercado da Ribeira: Adjacent to the Time Out Market is the Mercado da Ribeira, a traditional Portuguese market selling fresh produce, fish, meat, and flowers. This market is a great place to shop for groceries or simply soak in the local atmosphere.
  • Waterfront promenade: Cais do Sodré’s location along the Tagus River means that residents and visitors can enjoy walks or runs along the waterfront promenade. This area also offers stunning views of the 25 de Abril Bridge and the Christ the King statue across the river.

These are just a few of the many attractions and amenities available in Cais do Sodré. The neighbourhood’s combination of history, culture, and modern conveniences make it a unique and exciting place to explore and live in.