NOS Alive: a summer festival by the river in Lisbon

NOS Alive is one of Portugal's biggest music festivals, held on the riverside at Algés on the western edge of Lisbon. Its location makes it easy to combine concerts with a city break in the Portuguese capital.

Fun facts

• The festival started in 2007, originally under the name Optimus Alive.
• The site lies on the Tagus estuary, close to the historic Belém district.
• The festival presents several stages with rock, indie, pop and electronic music.

What to see

• Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, both near the festival site.
• Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district.
• The viewpoints of Graça and São Pedro de Alcântara.

What to taste

• Pastel de nata, the famous custard tart.
• Bifana, a pork sandwich.
• Grilled sardines, a Lisbon summer favourite.

What to do

• Ride historic tram 28 through the old districts.
• Take the train along the coast to Cascais for a beach day.
• Visit the palaces of Sintra.

💡 Tip: From Lisbon Airport the metro goes to the city centre; from Cais do Sodré the Cascais line train stops at Algés near the festival. Book tickets and accommodation early, as July is high season in Lisbon.