LuxFrágil is not just one of the most famous clubs in Lisbon. In 2014, the British newspaper “The Guardian” named it one of the 25 best nightclubs in Europe. It’s not a unique case. As all Lisbon residents and the rest of the Portuguese know, the city is full of other places where you can dance until late in the morning with your friends.
Nightclubs as we know them are a recent phenomenon in our country, which appeared at the end of the 70s. But their origins are much older. In the second decade of the 20th century, clubs that were part of the Roaring Twenties began to appear. Later, between the 30s and 60s, tempers ended up calming down, thanks to Salazar’s more repressive policies. Most of these spaces were transformed into fado houses and cabarets.
After that, the first nightclubs began to appear, with a less heavy atmosphere and, from then on, nightclubs began to appear progressively. And nowadays, there are options for everyone, from music style, decoration, location and ambience.
If, for example, you are looking for a more soulful, reegea and pop rock style of music, the historic Plateau is the ideal spot. For those who prefer a more diverse playlist, Rive-Rouge, at Mercado da Ribeira, is a good alternative. The space renovated the dance floor last year and is now equipped with new lighting and sound technology. All surrounded by industrial-style decor.
And of course we have to talk about Trumps, the most famous gay nightclub in the country. So much so that one of his most emblematic clients was António Variações (who even performed there). The house’s drag queens are a constant presence every night. A similar atmosphere exists at Posh, where there are nights dedicated to K-pop, Brazilian music and various other themes.
What is the best nightclub in Lisbon to dance the night away?