LIFE IN SANTOS

Trinas sits at the epicentre of this creative district – a convergence of old-world charm and new ideas.

This pocket of Santos weaves together the narrow, colourful streets of Madragoa with the more noble, open avenues of Lapa. Its pastel façades hint at a storied past, while design galleries and studios have given it a new gravitational pull.

Santos was officially designated Lisbon’s “Design District” in the early 2000s. Today, it continues to attract a growing community of architects, artists, and designers drawn to its unique rhythm and authenticity. Despite the creative energy all around, Santos remains calm and residential.

A True Village Within The City

Santos has a rhythm that feels instantly familiar. It’s a neighbourhood where tiled façades catch the light just right, and the streets invite you to slow down.

MEET THE NEIGHBOURS

We know the everyday characters that make this neighbourhood what it is — from art studios and natural wine bars to coffee spots, yoga studios, and low-key restaurants.

Below is a shortlist of our favourite local spots — the places we visit every week — along with a map to help you find your own. 

Let us show you around.

  • 1. Eritage Art Projects

    ART GALLERY

    A contemporary gallery with a focus on emerging and established artists from Portugal and beyond, Eritage brings a fresh international perspective to the neighbourhood’s growing creative scene.

  • 2. Tiffin

    RESTAURANT

    Run by Franco-Portuguese couple Frank and Fatima, Tiffin serves flavourful homemade Indian-inspired bowls and thalis in a casual corner setting.

  • 3. Omakase Ri

    RESTAURANT

    A hidden gem in Santos serving an intimate omakase experience. Revered for its precision, seasonal ingredients and minimalist design, this Japanese spot is a favourite among locals who know.

  • 4. The Reformer Lab

    PILATES STUDIO


    Created by Isabella Céligny, this Pilates studio is known for its sleek interiors and dynamic reformer classes.s here

  • 5. Do Beco

    BAKERY. COFFEE. BRUNCH

    Run by brothers António José de Mello and Lourenço de Mello, this local favourite blends bakery with all-day brunch and some of the best bread in the city.

  • 6. Garrafeira de Santos

    WINE SHOP

    Curated by owner Francisco Dias, this bottle shop has a standout selection of natural and biodynamic wines from Portugal and beyond.

  • 7. Mila

    COFFEE . BRUNCH

    Owned by husband-and-wife duo Tiago and Mila, this café is known for its sunny atmosphere, fresh bakes, and laid-back neighbourhood energy.

  • 8. Guarda-Mor

    RESTAURANT

    A cosy, low-key local favourite known for their amazing roasted chicken and rich potato dauphinoise – perfect comfort food, done really well.

  • 9. Skizzo

    RESTAURANT

    Owned by Michael Lonodjine and Tomás Blades – the same team behind Da Noi – Skizzo delivers bold, seasonal plates and an open kitchen vibe to Santos.

  • 10. Amplify

    FITNESS STUDIO

    Known for its clean design and community vibe, the studio offers high-energy spin, bootcamp and strength classes in a space that feels more boutique than gym.

  • 11. Heim

    COFFEE. BRUNCH

    The first of several restaurants by Hanna and Misha Lytvynenko, Heim is a long-time local favourite for brunch.

  • 12. Insaciável

    WINE BAR

    Opened by French couple Caroline Bos and Arnaud Quinty, this wine bar pairs natural wines with Portuguese small plates on a tree-shaded corner terrace.

  • 13. Salted Books

    BOOKSHOP

    DescriptionImagined by writer Alex Holder, this curated bookshop is a go-to for poetry, fiction and writing workshops.

  • 14. Baraza Yoga

    YOGA STUDIO

    Started by two friends, Alex du Toit and Ruby Morris, Baraza is a welcoming studio offering accessible yoga in a beautifully relaxed setting.

  • 15. Persson & Miller

    CERAMIC STUDIO

    Founded by design partners Bryony Perrson and Wanda Miller, this hybrid atelier-retail space offers thoughtful ceramic objects with quiet style.

  • 16. Bryon Studios

    INTERIORS

    Led by textile designer Chloe Skinner, this tucked-away interiors studio is known for modern craft and elevated simplicity.