Spend time people-watching as you enjoy a coffee and lunch in the same café that Lisbon’s literati once frequented.
Equally popular with locals and visitors to Lisbon, Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio) is the ideal place to meet up with friends or begin your day with a coffee. For centuries Commerce Square was the site of the royal palace until the building was badly damaged in the Great Earthquake of 1755. Remodelling saw the palace converted into an enormous stone monument that signified the entrance to the city. Visit the square to relax with a drink as you explore the central Baixa district of Lisbon.
Bring your camera to capture the many photo opportunities in the square. The great arch on the northern side of Commerce Square sits against the backdrop of Lisbon while a towering statue of King José resides in the centre. Wearing his emperor’s mantle, the King sits 14 metres (146 feet) tall.
Take a seat at one of Lisbon’s most famous cafés, Café Martinho da Arcada. Read through some Portuguese literature as you sit in the same spot that many of the nation’s most famous writers once worked at.
Pick up maps, information and local tips at the Lisbon Tourism Office, located in a lovely old building on the western edge of the square. Have them point you in the direction of the city’s best restaurants or pick up some souvenirs from the gift shop. Stop by the Lisboa Story Centre to explore interactive exhibits that outline the city’s history. Join the 1-hour tour to learn about the early days of Portugal.
Over the years, many of the government buildings that lined the square have been converted into restaurants, bars and cafés. Today Commerce Square is one of Lisbon’s best lunchtime destinations.
Commerce Square is located on the bank of the River Tagus in central Lisbon. Reach the square on foot from the surrounding Baixa district or via public transport from further away. You can access the square 24 hours a day.
