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POPULAR SAINTS IN LISBON: 5 UNMISSABLE TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF IT

Rent2You |July 10, 2025

Popular Saints in Lisbon: 5 Unmissable Tips to Make the Most of It

June is synonymous with celebration in Lisbon. The streets come alive with music, colors, grilled sardines, and contagious joy during the Santos Populares, one of Portugal's most vibrant traditions. If you're planning to visit Lisbon during this time, get ready for a unique celebration — and count on Rent2you for comfortable, central accommodations close to all the excitement. In this guide, we share 5 essential tips to experience the Santos Populares in Lisbon like a true local.

1. Don't miss Saint Anthony's night (June 12th to 13th).

The night of June 12th is the highlight of the festivities, dedicated to Saint Anthony, the patron saint of the city. The historic neighborhoods come alive with popular street parties, traditional music, dancing, and thousands of people in the streets.

Where to go: Alfama, Graça, Bica, Mouraria, and Bairro Alto are the epicenters of the party.
Rent2you Tip: Book your accommodation in advance. The best spots sell out quickly at this time of year.

2. Try the grilled sardine — the king dish of the festival

Nothing represents the Santos Populares better than the smell of grilled sardines wafting through the streets of Lisbon. They are served on bread, with a pepper salad or boiled potatoes, and accompanied by red wine or ice-cold beer.

Local experience:

Rent2you Tip: Choose an apartment with a balcony or terrace for a typical dinner with a view.

3. Dance at the popular festivals until dawn.

Street festivals are lively events with live music, DJs, traditional food, and lots of dancing. Stages are set up all around the city, offering everything from traditional Portuguese music to more modern beats.

Must-visit places:

Tip Rent2you: Stay in one of our properties in traditional neighborhoods to experience the party... right outside your door!

4. Attend the Santo António Weddings

One of the most peculiar traditions is the Saint Anthony's Wedding, where several couples from Lisbon get married on the same day, with both civil and religious ceremonies supported by the City Council. It takes place on the morning of June 12th.

Location:

Tip Rent2you: Combine the ceremony with a brunch nearby or a cultural visit to the historic center.

5. Buy basil plants and popular verses

Basil plants are small pots with an aromatic plant typical of the Popular Saints' festivities. They always come with a paper carnation and a traditional verse. Giving a basil plant is a tradition — and a sign of affection.

You can find it:

Rent2you Tip: Bring a basil plant to decorate your Rent2you accommodation — and take a bit of tradition with you.

Enjoy every sardine, festival, and dance | And let RENT2YOU take care of the rest.

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