Fernando Pessoa's Lisbon — the poet's haunts in Chiado

Fernando Pessoa filled his writing with invented authors, each with a distinctive voice and, in several cases, a biography of their own. He supported himself through translation and business correspondence, while much of his literary work appeared only after his death in 1935. This walk starts at his last home in Campo de Ourique, continues to the cafés and bookshop of Chiado, then takes in Alfama’s rooftops from Santa Luzia before finishing at Martinho da Arcada by the river. Between a museum, a coffee and a view, you meet the city behind one of Portugal’s great modern writers.

Practical. Expect hills, including the climb to Santa Luzia, and wear shoes with good grip, especially when the paving is wet. Check Casa Fernando Pessoa’s current opening times and admission before setting out. Allow extra time if you want to visit the museum or browse at Bertrand. Both cafés are working businesses: check their hours and menus, and ask staff about viewing Pessoa’s commemorated table at Martinho da Arcada.