Feira da Ladra: Lisbon’s Legendary Flea Market – A Complete Guide
- Micah
- Jul 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 5

Key Takeaways
750+ Years Old: One of Europe’s oldest flea markets, running since 1272.
Treasure Hunt Reality: Only 20% of stalls sell genuine antiques. Most offer crafts, vintage finds, and souvenirs.
Bargaining Secret: Vendors inflate prices by 30%, expecting haggling.
Best Time to Go: Arrive before 10 AM on Tuesdays or Saturdays for the best finds.
Avoid: Fake "antique" tiles. Many are illegally salvaged from historic buildings.
What Is Feira da Ladra?
Lisbon’s Feira da Ladra ("Thieves’ Market") is a chaotic, colorful maze of stalls. You’ll find everything from century old antiques to quirky modern trinkets. The market’s name likely comes from ladro (furniture beetles), not thieves, but its past as a black market hub gives it an edgy charm.
Unlike polished tourist markets, Feira da Ladra feels raw and authentic. You’ll hear vinyl records crackling, smell sizzling chouriço, and dig through piles of military medals, vintage postcards, and hand painted tiles.

What Can You Buy at Feira da Ladra?
1. Genuine Antiques (Rare but Worth It)
Vintage fado records (1940s to 1960s)
Art Deco azulejo tiles (pre 1950s)
Hand stitched Alentejo rugs
2. Tourist Souvenirs (Most Stalls)
Cork handbags
Miniature Barcelos roosters
"Vintage" tiles, often mass produced
3. Flea Market Oddities
Salazar era propaganda posters
Rusty nautical instruments
WWII era buttons and coins
Pro Tip: The best antiques cluster near Arco de São Vicente. Look for handwritten price tags.

Location, Hours & How to Get There
📍 Where?Campo de Santa Clara, Alfama, near the National Pantheon.
🚆 Transport:
⏰ When?
Tuesdays & Saturdays only.
9 AM to 6 PM, but stalls start packing up by 2 PM.
Best time: 9 to 11 AM, before crowds and sold out items.
How to Bargain Like a Local
Never accept the first price. Start at 60% of their asking price.
Cash works best. Many vendors don’t take cards.
Learn key phrases:
"Quanto custa?" (How much?)
"Pode fazer desconto?" (Can you lower the price?)
Late bargains: After 1:30 PM, sellers drop prices to avoid packing up unsold items.

What to Eat Nearby
Skip overpriced tourist snacks. Try these instead:
Mercado de Santa Clara for Pão com Chouriço (sausage bread, €3).
Tabernita for petiscos, Portuguese tapas.
O Zé da Mouraria for the best bifana (pork sandwich) in Alfama.

What NOT to Buy
"Antique" tiles: Many are illegally stripped from historic buildings.
Military medals: These may require export permits.
Fake silver jewelry: Test with a magnet. Real silver won’t stick.
Ethical alternative: Buy new tiles from Cortiço & Netos, which sells certified replicas.
Hidden Gems Near Feira da Ladra
Panteão Nacional: Climb the dome for market views, €5 entry.
São Vicente de Fora Monastery: Stunning tiled corridors, €8 entry.
Graça Viewpoint: Free sunset spot with castle views.
Where to Stay Nearby
$$$ Memmo Alfama: Rooftop pool overlooking the market.
$$ São Vicente Alfama Hotel: Chic rooms in a renovated convent.
$ Lisbon Lounge Suites: Budget friendly with kitchenettes.
Tip: Hotels are 30% cheaper on Tuesday nights compared to Saturdays.
FAQs
Is Feira da Ladra safe?
Yes, but watch for pickpockets in crowds.
Can I visit on non-market days?
No, Campo de Santa Clara is empty outside Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Are prices cheaper than in shops?
For antiques, yes. Mass-produced souvenirs cost more here.
Best souvenir under €10?
Hand-painted cobblestone magnets near the Pantheon.
Do vendors ship internationally?
Rarely bring a foldable tote for purchases.
When are the fewest crowds?
Rainy Tuesdays in November.