In the heart of the Cais do Sodré district, the Time Out Market (also known as Mercado da Ribeira) is an unmissable stop for food enthusiasts!
What’s in store?
A traditional market alongside a trendy food court featuring around 30 kiosks and small bars offering a wide variety of delights, from local specialties to global cuisines.
Follow the guide!
Table of Contents:
> Time Out Market in Lisbon at a Glance
> Exploring the Time Out Market
> Practical Information
💡 Insider Tips 💡
⭐ Top Tip: Free guided tour of the capital
💤 Hotels accommodation: a selection of value-for-money accommodation.
Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira) in a nutshell
Nestled just steps from the Tagus River, Time Out Market is housed in a historic covered market: the Mercado da Ribeira.
The Origins of Mercado da Ribeira
Late 19th Century
The Mercado da Ribeira was established in 1882 after six years of construction based on the plans of engineer Federico Ressano Garcia.
Originally, it was a traditional market selling fresh fish, vegetables, and fruits.
Fire and Renovations
Late 19th Century – Early 20th Century
Just 11 years after its opening, the market was severely damaged by a fire.
Renovation efforts were led by architect João Piloto, who took the opportunity to expand the Mercado da Ribeira.
Cultural Center
1990s
In the 1990s, the Lisbon municipality transformed the first floor of the market into a cultural center.
However, despite this innovative initiative, the market struggled to attract visitors.
The Birth of Time Out Market
2010-2014
In 2010, the city of Lisbon launched a tender to find an operator to revitalize the Mercado da Ribeira.
The Portuguese branch of Time Out magazine won over the city with its innovative project.
Part of the market was converted into a “food court” hosting around 30 food stalls centered around a communal dining space with large tables where visitors could freely sit and enjoy their meals.
Time Out Markets Around the World
Since 2014
The Mercado da Ribeira’s Time Out Market was the brand’s first food court concept, and its success soon inspired Time Out to replicate the model in major cities worldwide, including Miami, New York, Boston, Chicago, Montreal, Dubai, Porto, and Barcelona.
Visiting Lisbon’s Time Out Market
Feeling peckish? Perfect, it’s the ideal time to head over to Lisbon’s Time Out Market, just a stone’s throw from the Tagus River.
The Traditional Mercado da Ribeira Market
While Time Out Market is best known for its bustling food court, the Mercado da Ribeira still operates as a traditional market. In the mornings, you’ll find a variety of stalls offering fresh produce, seafood, meat, and more.
Though less glamorous than the food court, this covered market is well worth a visit. It’s the perfect place to experience a more authentic side of Lisbon, mingling with locals as they do their daily shopping.
Food court
A favorite among tourists and locals alike (though particularly popular with tourists, especially during peak season), the food court at Time Out Market Lisboa has quickly become one of the city’s must-visit attractions.
Here, you’ll find about 40 kiosks, including nearly 25 food stalls, bars, and shops—mostly featuring gourmet products.
What’s on the menu? Local specialties, exotic flavors, seafood, cheese and charcuterie boards, pizzas, burgers—you name it!
Time Out Market also boasts stalls run by some of Portugal’s top chefs, including a few Michelin-starred names who put a street-food spin on Portuguese classics. Notable chefs include Susana Felicidade, Michel Castro E Silva, Henrique Sa Pessoa, and Marlene Vieira.
Tip:
Time Out Market can get very crowded! Be prepared to hunt for seating, and if you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting earlier in the day and during the week.
Events at Time Out Market
More than just a market, Time Out Market Lisboa has been designed as a vibrant cultural hub.
The space regularly hosts a wide variety of events, from concerts and performances to stand-up comedy, film screenings, and art exhibitions.
To check out the latest events and performances, head over to their event schedule.
Cooking Classes at Time Out Market in Lisbon
Want to get hands-on in the kitchen? Time Out Market offers visitors the chance to participate in cooking classes led by professional chefs.
Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, there’s something for everyone: learn how to make the iconic pasteis de nata, dive into Indonesian cuisine, master the art of ceviche or dim sum, or even join kid-friendly cooking workshops. Whatever your interest, there’s a class for you!
To find out more about available classes, you can check out Time Out’s cooking class offerings.
🍳 Dive Deeper into Portuguese Cuisine 🍳
Portugal is synonymous with great food and wine! If you want to explore Lisbon’s rich culinary culture further,
why not join a food tour, cooking workshop, or tasting session? Capitain Ulysses highly recommends this handpicked selection of food-focused activities (with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance):
Practical Information
Getting to Lisbon’s Time Out Market
Head to the Cais do Sodré district! Time Out Market is located just a short walk from the Tagus River and about 10 minutes west of Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square).
The nearest public transport options are:
- Metro: Green Line (Linha Verde) to Cais do Sodré station.
- Bus: Lines 706, 728, and 781 to Cais do Sodré.
- Tram: Line 15E to Cais do Sodré.
Tip: Cais do Sodré is also where you can catch the ferry across the Tagus River to Cacilhas, where you can visit the famous Cristo Rei statue.
👍 Insider Tip 👍
If you’re planning to stay in Lisbon for a few days, consider getting the Lisboa Card!
It includes unlimited access to the city’s public transportation as well as entry to 39 tourist attractions, including Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, São Jorge Castle, and the Santa Justa Elevator.
Time Out Market Opening Hours
Time Out Market is open daily:
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday: 10 AM to midnight
- Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 10 AM to 2 AM
⚠️ Heads up: Due to its popularity, the market can get quite crowded! To secure a seat, it’s best to arrive early and aim for a weekday visit. Be prepared for some waiting time regardless.
💡 Pro tip: Make sure to find a seat before ordering your meal, or you might end up eating cold food!
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Credits
Ji Soo Song | Chuck Moravec | rbaire
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