The best Lisbon fado shows and tours

Fado is Lisbon's own music: a singer, a Portuguese guitar and a classical guitar, and songs about longing, the sea and the city itself. It was born in the poor riverside quarters of Alfama and Mouraria in the 19th century and was added to UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage in 2011. Hearing it live, in a small room where the lights go down and the audience falls silent, is one of the essential Lisbon experiences.

Before you book

There are three main formats. Short shows of about 50 minutes, often with a glass of port, are the simplest and cheapest. Fado houses (casas de fado) in Alfama and the Bairro Alto serve dinner with several sets through the evening, usually with a minimum spend. Fado walking tours combine the history of the neighbourhoods with a performance. Talking during the songs is frowned upon, so wait for the breaks to order.