Lisbon's "Avenida da Liberdade"; wonderful details

This article is a followup to my previous one on the cultural melting pot that Avenida da Liberdade is, with its plethora of venues and parades. But on this one, I wanted to share with you the small things I, more personally, enjoy in Avenida da Liberdade. Some of you may not think too much about those, while others they may have even passed under your radar. These are the smaller details and places that, at least for me, spark joy whenever I stroll down this wide street.

Just Passing By

In the last article, I suggested a lot of places to see and visit, but sometimes you’ll be just passing by, or you'll be in a mood for something more “chill”, for example, to just sit and have a drink. Well, Avenida da Liberdade is great for that too. All along the avenue, you’ll be able to gaze at the wonderful trees, ponds and sculptures decorating the street, as well as to take a break on one of the many kiosk cafés that can be found around the area. These small cafés may vary in prices, but most of them have late afternoon "happy hours"! Most of them also provide good meals- though there isn’t a shortage of great restaurants in Avenida da Liberdade (even if some are a bit pricy). For example, Ladurée’s great sweets, mentioned in another article a while back, is definitely worth a visit! 

Praça da Alegria

I had to mention this small square/garden in this article since it literally embodies all I’ve been writing about so far. Praça da Alegria is located near the center of the avenue. It’s sort of a "niche" right next to the main street that can be very overlooked, but its actually a very peaceful place. In the center, there is a garden called Keil do Amaral, with two enormous trees that kind of remind me of older gentlemen that meet in these sort of parks to reminisce on the past. Here you can also find a children’s playground and a small kiosk café, much like in the main avenue. But my favorite place here is "Hot Club", a Jazz venue that’s been active for a long time and that holds many weekly concerts with musicians with a wide variety of experience, from masters of their craft to younger artists taking their first steps.

It also from Praça da Alegria that you can get to the beautiful Principe Real area of Lisbon.

So, I hope to have interested you in seeing more of Avenida da Liberdade than just a good place to go shopping! Just stroll down and pay attention to its many and small details.

Cover picture @ André Jesus