Discovering LX Factory: Lisbon’s Creative Hub A New Life for Old Industry

LX Factory, located beneath the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge in Lisbon’s Alcântara district, is a clear example of how former industrial spaces can be adapted for new uses. Originally established in 1846 as a textile and printing complex, this 23,000 square meter area was repurposed in 2008 to host a variety of creative and commercial initiatives. Today, it brings together artists, entrepreneurs, and visitors in a setting that preserves its original industrial identity.

Getting There

LX Factory is about 3 kilometres west of central Lisbon and can be reached through several transport options:

• Train: Take the Cascais line from Cais do Sodré to Alcântara-Mar. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk.
• Tram: Tram 15 or 15E from Praça da Figueira to Largo do Calvário.
• Bus: Multiple lines serve the area, including 714, 727, 728, and 738.
• Walking: A 30 to 40-minute walk from the city centre, with a recommended route along the waterfront.
• Taxi/Rideshare: A short ride from downtown Lisbon typically takes about 10–15 minutes.

Entrances are located on Rua Rodrigues de Faria and Rua 1º de Maio. A new access point via Avenida da Índia is especially convenient for train arrivals.

What to See and Do

Street Art and Industrial Architecture

Street art is part of the LX Factory experience. Murals, graffiti, and sculptures can be seen throughout the area. Works by Portuguese artists like Bordalo II, who creates sculptures from recycled materials, contribute to the character of the site.

Local Shops and Design Studios

LX Factory hosts independent retailers and creative studios. Highlights include:

• Fashion and Accessories: From vintage clothing to contemporary local brands.
• Cork and Sustainable Goods: Including items made from cork and other locally sourced materials.
• Books and Print: The bookstore Livraria Ler Devagar, inside a former printing facility, is known for its floor-to-ceiling shelves and its use of original industrial equipment.

Food and Drink

The area has a wide range of food options. Visitors can find:

• Fusion dishes, such as Asian-Peruvian menus at Matchamama.
• Contemporary Portuguese food at restaurants like Taberna 1300.
• Dessert specialists such as Landeau, known for chocolate cake.
• Coffee shops, street food vendors, and rooftop bars.

LX Market (Sundays)

Held weekly, this market includes:

• Vintage clothing
• Handmade crafts
• Gourmet products
• Street food and occasional live performances

Arriving early is recommended for those looking to browse with fewer crowds.

Cultural Events and Open Studios

On the first Thursday evening of each month, the “Open Doors” event allows visitors to enter creative studios and meet the people behind the projects. Concerts, film screenings, and other public activities also take place throughout the year.

Nearby Points of Interest

• Village Underground: Built with shipping containers and repurposed buses, this cultural space offers coworking areas and hosts public events.
• MAAT: The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, located between LX Factory and Belém.
• Belém District: A short distance away, visitors can see landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.
• Docas de Santo Amaro: Restaurants and bars housed in former warehouses along the riverside.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: Shops generally open at 10:30am. Hours vary by business.
• Entry: Free to access.
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for a quieter atmosphere. Sundays attract more people due to the market.
• Navigation: A printed map is available at the entrance. Digital maps are also useful.
• Accessibility: The space is walkable, but some areas still allow vehicle access.

Why Visit LX Factory?

LX Factory connects Lisbon’s industrial past with its contemporary creative community. The space offers a range of experiences—art, food, retail, and events—while maintaining the integrity of its original structure.

At Exoticca, we aim to include meaningful local experiences in our Portugal itineraries. A visit to LX Factory provides travellers with the chance to explore Lisbon from a different perspective—through its makers, spaces, and evolving culture.