Top 5 Chiado Classes & Workshops: Lisbon’s Creative Gems

Chiado, that really cool and stylish district in Lisbon, is way more than just swanky shops and busy cafes, alright? I mean, that part of town is a playground for your inner artist or hobbyist, actually. We are going to check out five super interesting classes and workshops around Chiado, so, if you are a visitor or someone who’s lived here for a while, you might be able to find something different to explore and that may spark some joy, too. They all bring you fresh, unique perspectives, that’s very much the idea.

1. Pastel de Nata Cooking Class: Sweet Portuguese Treats

Oh, now, this is Portugal in a nutshell—or rather, in a flaky pastry shell! Pastel de Nata, this egg custard tart, it’s practically the nation’s food emblem, or so it seems, alright? If you feel like trying your hand at recreating this, is that fair to say, you absolutely need to consider taking a class, right? Several workshops in Chiado offer lessons on crafting this very special treat.

During a class, the instructors guide you through each tiny step of preparing these little bits of happiness, from making the crust, which it’s almost an art, to stirring the super creamy custard filling, too. You get to watch and do it yourself, it’s really hands-on, that is. The reward, though? Hot, fragrant Pastéis de Nata, straight from the oven. That is pure joy, is that the right way to say it? I mean, talk about a sweet souvenir! Read our full review: Pastel de Nata Cooking Class Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Pastel de Nata Class)

2. Azulejo Painting Workshop: Tiles with a Tale

Here’s a thought: Picture Lisbon, yet clad it with colorful tiles, okay? That’s how important Azulejos, those ornamental ceramic tiles, very much are to Portugal’s personality and appearance, I mean. These little pieces of art show up everywhere, so, on building exteriors to church interiors, even railway stations, you name it, that’s pretty much what it is.

There’s a bunch of workshops in Chiado where you can try out painting your very own Azulejo. They typically show you how to get started with traditional techniques, you learn all sorts of patterns, too, as a matter of fact. After you are done, it is yours to take home as a memorable, totally handmade piece of Portugal, that is.

Read our full review: Azulejo Painting Workshop Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Azulejo Painting Workshop)

3. Portuguese Language Class: Speak Like a Local (A Bit!)

Alright, so, how about picking up some Portuguese when you are actually in Lisbon? You could sign up for a class, might be an idea? Lots of language schools and instructors in Chiado provide introductory lessons that concentrate on super useful phrases, right? You know, greetings and how to order food, how to ask for directions, the important things, really.

That way, you show some respect to the locals and might make new buddies, just maybe? Plus, it might just add an extra layer of richness to your experience, wouldn’t it? People generally enjoy an attempt, I reckon. And honestly, getting some basics down could save you from a lot of, shall we say, confusing situations when you want to make yourself understood. It makes all the difference when you try, to be honest. Read our full review: Portuguese Language Class Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Portuguese Language Class)

4. Fado Guitar Workshop: Strings of Saudade

Fado, Lisbon’s heart-wrenching, almost sad, music genre, it has soul, it very much does. And the Portuguese guitar? Is that right to say? It’s that instrument that really delivers its unique, somewhat melancholic melodies, that’s totally its strength. In Chiado, a handful of little workshops give you a taste of strumming this very expressive instrument, or so I believe. They explain you how to hold the guitar and maybe even pluck at a few of the super basic chords. This might be very fascinating to some!

You aren’t going to turn into a guitar legend overnight, but hey, at the very least, you would gain respect for all that is involved in this mournful kind of music, right? I believe so, anyway. So, it is worth a look. Is it easy? I’d guess not! Read our full review: Fado Guitar Workshop Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Fado Guitar Workshop)

5. Sketching Lisbon: Urban Drawing Class

Okay, here we go. Explore Chiado, yet through an artist’s vision. Several guided urban sketching tours kick off around here, which they can be really engaging if you fancy, or so I suspect, you might like them? With sketchbook in hand, your instructor leads you to really interesting spots around the area—spots with secret histories or remarkable views.

You discover basic techniques for drawing buildings and public spaces. No big deal if you are not artistic, that is almost unimportant, because the primary goal has nothing to do with creating great art. But is everything about seeing and engaging with that urban setting through fresher eyes. It might make you realize, really appreciate how nice Chiado is. I’d advise to sign up to that. Is it difficult? I’d not be too sure about it. But fun, I believe so! Read our full review: Urban Drawing Class Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Urban Drawing Class)