LX Factory Lisbon

The LX Factory is not only a former industrial site, but also a fascinating place for anyone who wants to experience urban creativity and alternative flair. More than 50 restaurants, cafés, bars, concept stores, and creative studios have settled on a 23,000-square-meter site in the Alcântara district, directly under the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge. The authentic factory buildings with crumbling plaster, cobblestone streets, and spectacular street art create a unique atmosphere that transports visitors into a world between industrial charm and modern creativity.

Industrial atmosphere and street art

The former factory site has been deliberately left in its original condition, which accounts for much of its distinctive flair. Brick walls, old warehouse buildings, and rusty metal staircases blend with contemporary art. The exterior walls of many buildings are decorated with impressive graffiti and street art by internationally renowned artists. Particularly spectacular is the giant bee by Portuguese artist Bordalo II, who is known for his 3D artworks made from recycled materials. The artworks change regularly, so there is something new to discover every time you visit. Visitors encounter this urban open-air gallery everywhere on the site.

Culinary diversity in Lisbon

The LX Factory has become a gastronomic hotspot. From Portuguese cuisine to Mexican street food and sushi, the restaurants offer something for every taste. Particularly popular are Taberna 1300 with its combination of modern and traditional Portuguese cuisine, A Meza for pizza, Cantina with its wood-fired oven, and Café na Fábrica in its charming white wooden hut. For sweet lovers, Landeau Chocolate with its famous chocolate cake and LX CheeseCake are absolute highlights. The rooftop terrace of Rio Maravilha offers a special experience with panoramic views of the grounds and the bridge. Most restaurants have outdoor terraces that are particularly inviting on sunny days. During happy hour, which takes place between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. depending on the venue, many bars attract customers with inexpensive cocktails and beer.

Ler Devagar – One of the most beautiful bookshops in the world

An absolute must-see is the Ler Devagar bookshop, which has been described by international media outlets such as the Financial Times and the Daily Mail as one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world. Located in a former printing house, the space is still dominated by a massive historic printing press, and sometimes the smell of printer's ink still lingers in the air. Books reach from floor to ceiling, creating a bibliophile atmosphere that makes bookworms' hearts beat faster. The store is a popular photo motif and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Shopping and souvenirs galore

Unlike typical tourist shops, LX Factory offers authentic Portuguese products. Visitors will find handmade ceramics, cork products, local fashion, jewelry, gourmet foods, and wines from small Portuguese producers in the various concept stores and boutiques. Vintage shops, second-hand clothing, and handmade art by local artists make the shopping experience special. The shops are individually designed and offer products that cannot be found anywhere else.

The LX Market - Sunday flea market

Every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., the LX Market takes place, a curated market with selected stalls. Visitors can discover vintage clothing, handmade products from local designers, Portuguese sunglasses, jewelry, and art. At the entrance, there are gourmet stalls offering cheese, spices, baked goods, and liqueurs. On special days, live music and street food stalls complement the offerings. The market takes place in the rear parking lot and is a meeting place for locals and visitors alike.

Creative working environment at LX Factory

Start-ups, advertising agencies, fashion studios, graphic designers, and other creative companies work on the upper floors of the buildings. The site functions as a co-working space and creative center that attracts a dynamic community. Visitors can tour some of the studios and observe the work of artisans and designers. Events such as exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and the biannual “Open Day,” when the entire site opens its doors, are held regularly.

The LX Factory has its roots in Lisbon's industrial history. In 1846, the Companhia de Fiação e Tecidos Lisbonense, one of Portugal's most important textile factories, settled here. For decades, the 23,000-square-meter site was a major employer in the region. After economic difficulties, the factory closed, and later a printing company used parts of the site, but it too had to close. The site fell into disrepair and was forgotten. In 2007, an investor bought the abandoned factory site with the vision of transforming it into an island of creativity. In 2008, the LX Factory reopened and quickly attracted artists, creative companies, restaurants, and bars. The industrial character was deliberately preserved, giving the place its unique charm. Today, the LX Factory is one of Lisbon's main attractions and a meeting place for locals, tourists, and the city's creative scene.

By car

There is parking available on site near LX Factory.

By public transport

Take tram line 15 or 18 to the Calvário stop, from where it is a few minutes' walk to LX Factory. Alternatively, take the Linha de Cascais suburban train to Alcântara-Mar station, then walk for about 10 minutes.