Santa Catarina is a friendly neighbourhood situated very close to the elegant reservation of Chiado and the exuberant Bairro Alto night scene. The pastel-coloured houses and regal buildings dotting its small streets make a pretty picture, but a closer look will reveal small bars, independent shops, cosy cafes with quirky design inspirations put in place by young art students and fashion designers.

A favourite spot in the neighbourhood is the terraced garden on Rua do Loreto, offering a pleasant view of the rooftops of the old Mandragoa and Lapa quarters. From here, you can also see the 25 de Abril Bridge and the old stone figure of Adamastor, a mythical character that symbolised the storms at sea and other dangers that the great Portuguese explorers braved during their voyages of discovery.