I visited Lisbon for the first time this summer and it quickly became one of my favourite European cities. I’ve been to Portugal a couple of times before so I knew it would be good but not this good!
We only had a weekend there so below are the main things we saw and did:
Where to stay:
I was invited to stay at Alegría Boutique Hotel which is a lovely hotel within walking distance of the City Centre. Our spacious but cosy room overlooked the Square opposite (Praça de Alegría) where regular live music sessions are held! The hotel has an extensive breakfast spread daily and cool lounge area to enjoy…I’d definitely stay there again if I go back.
What to see:
The city from above is a must. There’s so many ways to do this, both free (e.g. from the Miradouros (viewpoints) around the city, from the hill of Castelo de S. Jorge (Castle), or from many other attractions.
Pink Street (261 Rua Rosa) – it’s instagram famous but less glitzy in real life. However it’s a popular spot at night.
Ponte 25 de Abril (The big red Bridge which looks like Golden Gate Bridge) – it’s beautiful!
Markets – there’s plenty around Lisbon on the weekend and selling plenty of souvenirs, clothes, accessories etc.
The many beautiful squares (Praças) of Lisbon – they’re surrounded by buildings with stunning tiling (such as the azulejos).
What to do:
Get a Lisbon card for free transport plus free or reduced entries to tourist sites. Make sure you ride a tram – no28 is the most famous and popular.
Climb the Arch (Arco Da Rua Augusta) to learn about its history and also for a 360 degree view of Lisbon.
Visit the Cathedral – beautifully designed on two levels with an impressive organ and lots of old ornaments and glitz from the past.
Visit Belem Tower – you can get a tram out of Lisbon to visit the Tower – it’s stunning from the top.
Sunset Cruise on River Tagus – we booked this on GetYourGuide and it was lovely! You get to see the sights from the River with the gorgeous glow of the sunsetting..it includes a drink and snacks plus the Captain DJs at the same time.
Where to eat and drink:
Time Out Market – huge food and drink indoor market which was the first Time Out outside of the US. I had prego which is a traditional Portuguese meat sandwich
Limao rooftop bar is intimate and has great views over Lisbon
Natas – a Portuguese delicacy – you can get delicious ones from Pastéis de Belem or Fábrica de Nata
This is a brief way to spend 48 hours in this beautiful city. There’s a lot more to see and do and day trips as well which I really want to do, especially Sintra! Do share below any other Lisbon tips you have for everyone if you’ve been before.
J Xo
Road2Culturedom 