You may be in Portugal, but if you’re there on March 17th, you’ll want to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.
While not widely celebrated across the country, in the past, Portugal has embraced the spirit of the day with several landmarks historically lighting up in green to honour the occasion. Notable examples include the Clérigos Tower in Porto, the statues of King Dom José I in Lisbon, the Cristo Rei Statue also in Lisbon, and even the Faro International Airport in the Algarve.
For those looking to really celebrate, you’ll likely find Irish pubs and certain restaurants in the larger cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Algarve regions hosting special events, offering Irish food, drinks, and live music. These venues become gathering spots for both expats and locals wanting to enjoy the day.
Lisbon
If you’re in Lisbon and looking to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day or just in the mood for some Irish ambiance, you’re in luck. Lisbon hosts several Irish pubs where you can enjoy a pint of Guinness, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Here’s a brief look at some of the city’s Irish pubs:
O’Gilin’s Irish Pub
Established in 1995, O’Gilin’s holds the title of Lisbon’s oldest Irish pub. Nestled in the lively area of Cais do Sodré, this Irish-owned establishment is known for its vibrant live music scene and a mix of old-world charm with a modern twist. The pub boasts friendly international staff, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a slice of Ireland in Lisbon.
Irish & Co.
Located with a view of Parque das Nações, Irish & Co. combines the essence of a sports bar with the soul of an Irish pub. The venue’s vintage decor, alongside its balconies and mezzanines overlooking the Tágides Garden, offers a unique setting for enjoying a drink. It’s a great spot for those who appreciate the blend of sports viewing and the cozy feel of an Irish pub.
The Corner Irish Pub
The Corner is a popular gathering place for an international crowd looking to enjoy live music, great beer, and cocktails in a friendly setting.
Along with The Corner, the same group also owns Cheers Irish Pub and The Meeting Point, both of which are also in Lisbon.
Cascais
In Cascais, a charming coastal town near Lisbon, you’ll also find a slice of Ireland through its Irish pubs, each offering its unique take on Irish hospitality. Whether you’re after live music, sports, or just a friendly place to grab a pint, Cascais has got you covered. Here’s a quick guide to some of the Irish pubs in Cascais:
O’Luain’s
O’Luain’s is renowned as one of the top-rated Irish pubs in Cascais, celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere and a wide selection of food and drinks. It’s a favorite spot for watching Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) games, making it a home away from home for sports fans. The friendly vibe here makes it a great place to hang out, whether you’re a local or just visiting.
O’Neill’s
O’Neill’s is a smaller, cozy pub known for its regular live music sessions. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy a night out with good tunes in a more intimate setting. Despite its size, O’Neill’s packs a lot of character and is a favored spot among locals and visitors alike for its lively atmosphere.
Cooleys
Positioned as Cascais’ premier sports bar, Cooleys offers a contemporary setting for sports enthusiasts. With a pool table, a darts board, and an abundance of “craic” (fun), it’s the go-to place for anyone looking to catch a game or enjoy some local live music. Its central location makes it an accessible spot for anyone exploring the heart of Cascais.
These Irish pubs in Cascais offer more than just a drink; they provide experiences filled with music, sports, and international camaraderie. Whether you’re in the mood for a lively sports bar or a cozy spot with live music, Cascais’ Irish pubs are sure to deliver with their own touch of Irish charm.
Porto
Porto, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, also offers a taste of Ireland through its diverse selection of Irish bars. Whether you’re looking for a place with a long history, live music, or stunning views, Porto has an Irish pub to suit your mood. Here’s a look at some of the city’s most notable Irish bars:
Bonaparte
Bonaparte, arguably the most famous pub in Porto, brings a slice of Irish charm with a unique twist, being owned by a German. Situated in the picturesque area of Foz, nestled between Castelo do Queijo and Saint John’s Fort, and right on the seafront, it’s a place with deep roots in the local community. Having welcomed patrons for over 30 years, Bonaparte has become a staple of Porto’s nightlife. It’s known for its welcoming atmosphere that keeps locals and visitors returning time and again.
Irish & Co.
Irish & Co, located on the quay of Vila Nova de Gaia, across the river from Porto, offers a modern take on the traditional Irish pub. It’s not just about the beer here; the pub also serves delicious meals, perfect for enjoying on their top-floor terrace that boasts amazing views of the Douro river banks. The pub is known for hosting live concerts frequently, so you might just be in luck to catch a live performance when you visit.
Ryan’s
Ryan’s Irish Pub hides behind an unassuming façade, just a short walk from the beautiful Ribeira Quay. Since opening its doors in 1997, Ryan’s has offered an authentically Irish atmosphere, complete with wooden balconies, Celtic music, football matches on the TV, and a wide selection of drinks from around the world. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to immerse themselves in a truly Irish pub experience in the heart of Porto.
Algarve
The Algarve, with its sunny climate and beautiful beaches, is a favorite destination for tourists, including those from Ireland. This has led to the presence of several Irish bars throughout the region, each offering a taste of Ireland with their unique charm, live music, sports viewing, and, of course, Guinness. Here’s a rundown of some popular Irish bars in the Algarve:
Ireland’s Eye (Praia da Rocha)
Located in Praia da Rocha, Ireland’s Eye boasts one of the best views of the beach from its terrace. Known for its friendly staff and family-run vibe, this bar and restaurant is a hit among locals and tourists alike. With live music every evening during the summer months and a great spot for watching sports, it’s a top choice for a night out.
The Black Stove (Alvor)
In Alvor, The Black Stove is an authentic Irish bar offering live music every night, sports on multiple screens, and a ceiling decorated with county flags. The atmosphere is filled with good-natured banter and laughter, often accompanied by spontaneous singing. Notably, it hosts a Traditional Irish Music week in May and a legendary Golfers Week in November.
O’Neills Bar (Vilamoura)
Situated on the marina in Vilamoura, O’Neills Bar combines the essence of an Irish bar with the allure of a cosmopolitan resort. Enjoying a Guinness while overlooking luxury yachts is a unique experience here. The bar is known for its lively daily atmosphere, extensive live music and sports programming, and a jam-packed St. Patrick’s Day weekend schedule.
The Irish Pub (Vilamoura)
Also in Vilamoura, The Irish Pub features a large deck area with stunning marina views. Famous for its vibrant nightlife, including live music and table dancing, it’s a go-to place for summer drinks. The pub’s location and atmosphere make it one of Vilamoura’s prime nightlife spots.
The Black Anchor (Tavira)
Nestled in Tavira, The Black Anchor is located in a picturesque setting by the river, near the historical town and ancient Roman bridge. It offers a tranquil atmosphere with scenic views, making it a perfect spot for a more relaxed evening.
Erins Isle (Albufeira)
Erins Isle is a large bar with both indoor and outdoor seating areas and around 20 TVs for sports fans. Alongside live music, the bar features various entertainment acts, catering to a wide range of tastes.
The Shamrock Irish Bar (Albufeira)
Located in the heart of Albufeira’s Old Town, The Shamrock Irish Bar is on the main ‘bar street’ and offers a mix of music, including traditional Irish tunes. It’s a vibrant spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of Albufeira.
Devlin’s Irish Bar (Albufeira)
Devlin’s Irish Bar stands out as a quintessential Irish pub in the Algarve, offering a traditional Irish welcome that resonates with locals and visitors alike.
Devlin’s features entertainment options like a pool table and karaoke, available throughout the year, ensuring that there’s always something fun happening. For sports enthusiasts, especially fans of rugby and Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) games, Devlin’s is a go-to destination. It’s equipped to show a variety of sports events, making it a popular spot to catch a game while enjoying a drink.
Its high rating on Tripadvisor is a testament to its quality service, friendly atmosphere, and the authentic Irish pub experience it offers.