Which are the best neighbourhoods in the world to eat, have fun and enjoy culture and community? The British magazine Time Out answered this question again in 2021 based on the opinion of 27,000 people living in the four corners of the world. In this edition of Time Out Index, there are two Portuguese neighbourhoods among the 49 coolest in the world: Anjos, in Lisbon, occupies the 34th position; and Foz, in Porto, is in the 38th place.
After 18 months of the Covid-19 pandemic with its various social restrictions, life for city dwellers is no longer the same. A "new normal" has settled in, where priorities have changed. And that's why, in this edition, the Time Out Index survey took into account other indicators: food, drink, nightlife and culture were considered important. And community spirit, resilience and sustainability were also highlighted, explained Time Out.
In Portugal, these are the two neighbourhoods among the 49 'coolest' in the world, according to the British magazine:
Anjos, Lisbon
It's in 34th position in this ranking and, according to Time Out, this neighbourhood stands out for its cultural diversity, the large institutions that attract crowds and a diverse range of new establishments opening. "Anjos is a mix of everything we wish for in a neighbourhood," they sum up.
This neighbourhood is located north of historic Alfama and boasts the cycle lane of Avenida Almirante Reis, the alternative Anjos70 market, the "smell of coffee roasting in the air" and local restaurants where you can enjoy traditional dishes.
Foz, Porto
It's in Foz that the Douro River meets the ocean. This neighbourhood ranked 38th in Time Out's ranking and is considered the perfect place to "escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Porto", they say. The wide streets for running and cycling and the beaches for family outings are two elements that stand out in Foz.
And, then, there are the restaurants and shops that are springing up at this riverside location, which join the antique monuments, the traditional markets and the historic architecture, characterised by its blue and white Portuguese tiles.
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