NYE Lisbon: New Year’s Eve Pub Crawl

Counting down in Lisbon for New Year’s can be a spectacular experience, but some travelers prefer to make it extra special with a guided celebration. The NYE Lisbon Pub Crawl offers a lively way to welcome 2025, combining visits to top bars, unlimited drinks, and a VIP entrance to a dance club—all wrapped into a 5-hour package. Priced at $91 per person, this experience promises a night filled with camaraderie, fun, and plenty of drinks.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on creating a festive atmosphere with a professional guide leading the way. From the start at Camões Square to the fireworks at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, the tour aims to make sure you don’t miss the highlights of Lisbon’s New Year celebrations. However, some reviews suggest the experience might not be as extraordinary as hoped, especially for those seeking a more varied bar-hopping route or iconic fireworks viewing points.

If you’re a visitor who loves socializing, enjoys open bars, and wants a stress-free way to embrace Lisbon’s nightlife, this tour could be a great fit. Just keep in mind that it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a somewhat structured night, and who are comfortable with a group setting.

Key Points

• Includes everything you need for a lively New Year’s celebration, from welcome shots to VIP club access.
• Limited bar stops — only two main venues, which might leave some wishing for more variety.
• Breathtaking fireworks view from Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a popular Lisbon vantage point.
• Flexible upgrade option available for a more premium open bar with gin and vodka.
• Sociable atmosphere with an animated tour guide and engaging drinking games.
• Not suitable for children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to age and health restrictions.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Night in Lisbon

Starting Point at Camões Square

Your adventure begins at Camões Square around 9:30 PM. Look for guides in yellow hoodies and umbrellas — a bright and easy way to spot your crew. This spot is central and lively, perfect for gathering the crowd and getting into the party mood. Here, you’ll receive your party kit, which likely includes accessories and essentials to get the night rolling.

First Stop: Local Bar with Welcome Shots

After assembling the group, the tour kicks off with a complimentary shot at a local bar. It’s a quick way to loosen up, meet fellow travelers, and set the tone for the evening. The guide, who typically speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese, will give a brief overview of the upcoming stops and fireworks viewing.

Miradouro de Santa Catarina and the Fireworks

One of the true highlights is heading to Miradouro de Santa Catarina — a popular vantage point for fireworks lovers. This spot offers breathtaking views of Lisbon’s skyline, making it an ideal place to watch the fireworks explode as the clock strikes midnight. Based on reviews, this is a key part of the experience, with many appreciating the chance to see the city’s celebrations from a scenic viewpoint.

However, some reviewers noted that there are better ways to watch fireworks independently, perhaps from a more secluded or iconic viewpoint. Still, for those on the tour, the fireworks display is a memorable part of the night and a photo-worthy moment.

Open Bar and Drinking Games

Post-midnight, the party continues with an hour of unlimited beer and sangria, perfect for keeping the energy high. During this time, you’ll likely engage in fun drinking games, which are a big part of the tour’s lively vibe. The open bar is included, but if you’re thirsty for other drinks, you’ll need to pay extra.

Second Venue and Shots

Moving to the second bar, you’ll receive another free shot — a nice touch to keep the momentum going. The guide’s role here is crucial in maintaining the festive atmosphere, helping everyone mingle, and making sure no one feels left out.

VIP Club Entrance and Champagne Toast

As the countdown to 2025 approaches, your group heads to a VIP club — a nice perk that offers a more energetic environment for dancing and celebrating through the early hours. At midnight, the tour officially pops a bottle of Champagne, allowing everyone to toast the new year in style. This moment is often the highlight for many, providing a sense of shared celebration and luxury.

End of the Tour

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, around 2:30 AM or so, giving you ample time to continue celebrating on your own or explore Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife. The guide remains available for support, ensuring everyone gets home safely.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This experience packs a lot into the $91 price tag. Included are animated guides, a party kit, the welcome shots, limitless beer and sangria, VIP club access, midnight champagne, and support from your guide.

However, extras like additional drinks, wardrobe (think coat check or special outfits), hotel pickups, and transportation between venues aren’t covered. This means if you wish to extend your night or visit other spots afterward, you’ll need to organize those arrangements yourself.

For those interested in an upgraded experience, there’s an option to pay an extra $10 for an open bar with gin, vodka, and mixers — a worthwhile upgrade if you’re looking for more variety.

Practical Details: Timing, Group Size, and Dress

Arriving 15 minutes early at Camões Square ensures you start on time and get settled with your party kit. The tour runs for about 5 hours, so be prepared for a late night. The group size is likely moderate, given the structured stops, and the guide will speak in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Dress code is casual chic — think stylish but comfortable. Avoid sportswear, flip flops, sandals, or beachwear, as a neat appearance is expected for the celebration.

What the Reviews Say: Real Insights

While the majority of the reviews are neutral to slightly positive, some key points stand out. One traveler mentioned, “It’s not spectacular. I visited better bars on my own in one night than on the tour (there are only two).” This suggests that if you’re after a diverse bar-hopping experience, this tour might feel limited, especially since only two main venues are included.

Another review noted, “Conocer personas,” highlighting that the tour is social and a good way to meet fellow travelers. The social aspect is one of its strengths, especially if you’re traveling solo or want to avoid planning a night out alone.

A common theme is the spectacular fireworks view from Miradouro de Santa Catarina, which many found worth the price and effort. However, some felt that better fireworks spots are accessible on your own, and the tour could do more to enhance the viewing experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This pub crawl is right for social travelers, especially those who enjoy guided celebrations, unlimited drinks, and a lively party atmosphere. If you’re seeking a straightforward, no-fuss way to ring in the new year with new friends and VIP access, this tour checks those boxes.

However, if you prefer more bar diversity, a more personalized fireworks viewing, or want to explore more of Lisbon’s nightlife independently, you might find this experience somewhat limited. It’s also not ideal for travelers with mobility issues, children, or pregnant women, as the activity has age restrictions and involves a lot of standing and walking.

Final Thoughts

The NYE Lisbon Pub Crawl offers a fun, hassle-free way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in a city known for its lively spirit. The inclusion of open bar, fireworks viewing, and VIP club access provides good overall value for those looking to enjoy a spirited night without the stress of planning each detail.

While some may wish for a more varied bar route or more exclusive fireworks spots, the experience still delivers a memorable start to the year with friendly crowds, great views, and plenty of drinks. It’s a solid option for travelers eager to experience Lisbon’s nightlife in a structured, social setting.

If you’re happy to embrace a somewhat structured evening with a focus on camaraderie and celebration, this tour could be your perfect way to welcome 2025 in Lisbon. Just be prepared for a lively night that’s more about the company and views than a high-end exclusive experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers or those under 18?
No, this tour is only for travelers over 18 and involves drinking, so it’s not suitable for minors or non-drinkers.

What’s the meeting point and time?
You meet near the statue at Camões Square around 9:30 PM, where guides in yellow hoodies and umbrellas will be waiting.

Are additional drinks available?
Yes, but they will cost extra, as only unlimited beer and sangria are included in the open bar.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, starting around 9:30 PM and wrapping up around 2:30 AM.

Is there a dress code?
Yes, dress casually chic — avoid sportswear, flip flops, sandals, or beachwear.

Can I upgrade my experience?
Yes, for an extra $10, you can enjoy an open bar with gin, vodka, and mixers.

What’s the highlight of the tour?
Most travelers enjoy the fireworks view from Miradouro de Santa Catarina, along with the midnight champagne toast.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation between venues or to/from your accommodation is not included.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, given the walking involved and age restrictions.

What do reviews say about the overall experience?
While some found it “not spectacular,” many appreciated the social aspect and fireworks views. Some felt the bar stops were limited, but the festive atmosphere and VIP access were generally well-received.

In summary, the NYE Lisbon Pub Crawl offers a lively, well-organized way to ring in the new year with drinks, fireworks, and new friends. It’s best suited for those who prioritize social fun over extensive bar hopping or exclusive fireworks viewing. If you’re looking for a structured, enjoyable celebration to start your new year, this tour might just be your ticket to a memorable Lisbon night.