Lost in Lisbon: A 6-Day Journey Through Portugal's Historic Capital

Lost in Lisbon: A 6-Day Journey Through Portugal's Historic Capital

When the urge to travel hits unexpectedly, there's a certain excitement in picking a destination on the fly at the airport, which often paves the way for some of the most rewarding travel adventures. Our journey kicked off at LAX with only a plane ticket to Heathrow in hand and no further itinerary. As we flew across continents, a decision was made high above the clouds — Lisbon would be our next exploration, a city renowned for its historic allure and dynamic seaside vibe. Here's how we soaked up six captivating days in Portugal's sun-kissed capital.

Out & About:

Exploring Lisbon's rolling terrain and the gentle summer breezes made a TukTuk tour the perfect choice, allowing us to see the city’s gems without tiring ourselves out. We opted for a 90-minute journey booked through Airbnb Experiences, which turned out to be both entertaining and insightful. This tour revealed several of Lisbon’s landmarks:

• Cathedral of Saint Mary Major (Sé Cathedral): As Lisbon's oldest church, originally constructed in 1147, the Cathedral of Saint Mary Major stands as a monument of immense historical significance. The façade and ancient artifacts within provide a glimpse into Portugal's rich ecclesiastical heritage and the city's medieval past.
• Pasteis de Nata: These iconic Portuguese egg tarts are a staple in Lisbon, a creamy custard filling inside a flaky, buttery pastry offering a tase of Portuguese tradition.
• Igreja de Santa Luzia: This church is famed for its stunning azulejos (painted tin-glazed ceramic tile work) that artfully narrate tales of Portugal's history. Additionally, its elevated location offers an amazing view of the Lisbon skyline and the Tagus River, making it one of my favorite spots during the tour.
• Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora: Built in the 16th century, this Renaissance-style church and monastery is renowned for its stunningly detailed baroque altarpieces and the intricate azulejos that adorn its halls. The craftsmanship and artistry evident in its design reflect the rich cultural and religious history of Lisbon.
• Panteão Nacional: The National Pantheon, known for its impressive baroque architecture and the striking dome that dominates Lisbon’s skyline, is a site of immense national pride. Inside, the pantheon houses the tombs of Portugal's most notable figures.

Although we skipped the lengthy lines for Tram 28, its route is renowned for weaving through Lisbon's historic districts of Graça, Alfama, and Baixa aboard the classic Lisbon streetcar.

Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square): Wander around Praça do Comércio to enjoy stunning views of the Tejo River's southern banks and some of the finest examples of Portuguese historical art. Centrally positioned within Commerce Square is the impressive bronze equestrian statue of King Joseph I.

Adding to our adventures, we embarked on a sailboat rental, another highlight arranged through Airbnb Experiences. Our sail took us past several iconic landmarks that are pivotal to Portugal's rich maritime heritage which include:

• Ponte 25 de Abril: The bridge’s striking resemblance to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge was unmistakable. As we sailed beneath, we shared toasts with new friends over glasses of exquisite Portuguese wine, celebrating the moment and the breathtaking views.
• Monument of the Discoveries: This monument, built to commemorate the Portuguese Age of Exploration, features statues of explorers like Vasco da Gama and Prince Henry the Navigator.
• Sanctuary of Christ the King: A towering statue reminiscent of Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer. This monument, situated on the southern banks of the Tagus River, overlooks the city of Lisbon with arms outstretched, offering a protective gaze.

This sailboat experience, with the wind in our sails and historical marvels on the horizon, was undeniably a highlight of our Lisbon adventure.

If you're planning to soak in the sun on one of Portugal's beaches, be aware that they are not located near Lisbon but rather outside the city. Keep this in mind when making your plans; we ran out of time and couldn't enjoy the beach as a result.

Eat:

Planto Bar & Restaurant: Drawing inspiration from nature, Planto Bar & Restaurant serves delightful dishes like crispy Veggie Tempura and freshly baked Portuguese Bread, each crafted with a focus on fresh, sustainable ingredients. This spot quickly became one of my favorites, and I anticipate the day I can return.

Time Out Market: The market stands as a central highlight of Lisbon's culinary landscape, providing a vibrant venue where vendors showcase an array of options from classic Portuguese cuisine to creative culinary creations.

Dear Breakfast: A cozy nook perfect for morning meals, offering a selection of breakfast favorites such as flaky croissants, hearty granola, and vibrant, freshly blended smoothies.

Cervejaria Antártida: Situated in the historic Praça do Comércio, Cervejaria Antártida provides a stunning backdrop where you can savor local beers paired with delicious gourmet burgers.

Bairro do Avillez: Masterminded by chef José Avillez, blending four distinct dining environments under one roof. From tapas bars to gourmet dining, the venue is a hotspot for sampling a wide array of dishes.

Casa Graviola: Specializing in health-conscious breakfasts, Casa Graviola offers a menu focused on organic and nourishing ingredients.

Guacamole: Brings a slice of Mexican vibrancy to Lisbon, with the option to custom-make their burritos from a selection of fresh fillings and toppings.

Hello, Kristof: A trendy café known for its coffee and scrumptious pastries, Hello, Kristof makes it the perfect place to unwind, catch up on some reading, or enjoy a casual meet-up over brews and treats.

SEA ME Next Door: Although I personally did not partake in the seafood offerings, SEA ME Next Door is acclaimed for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood dishes offering an authentic taste of Lisbon's maritime cuisine.

Drink:

Pink Street: As night fell, we ventured into Calle Rosa de Lisboa, more commonly known as Pink Street. This vibrant area, famed for its distinctive pink pavement, comes alive with an lively nightlife.

MachimBombo: Nestled in the heart of Lisbon's nightlife, MachimBombo stands out with its trendy, pink-hued ambiance. This bar offers a unique selection of local Green Wine, providing a perfect spot for those looking to taste something uniquely Portuguese.

Side Bar: A compact yet lively venue adorned with disco balls, this spot offers the perfect setting to enjoy a drink and make new friends right on the street.

There are many other excellent spots near Side Bar. These were some of the highlights that truly stood out to us during our trip.

Shop:

EMENTA: This local brand captured my attention with its range of vibrant bags, each reflecting the colorful essence and lively spirit of Lisbon. The designs are not only eye-catching but also embody the artistic flair and cultural vibrancy that the city is known for.

Sons of the Silent Age: This unique shop, has an eclectic mix of vintage concert tees alongside stylish accessories, each piece telling its own story of past musical eras.

Vinil Experience: Stepping into Final Experience is like traveling back in time, where classic records spin timeless melodies and the retro decor evokes the golden era of vinyl.

Stay:

Selina’s Secret Garden Hotel: Tucked away in the hip Cais do Sodre district, Selina’s Secret Garden Hotel strikes the perfect balance between a lively communal vibe and personal comfort. More than just a place to stay, this trendy hotel boasts stylish rooms and a fully-equipped coworking space, making it a favorite among digital nomads who want to work and relax in style. With its vibrant common areas and serene private spaces, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a dynamic yet cozy experience right in the heart of Lisbon.

Lisbon captivates with its rich historical tapestry, diverse culinary experiences, and cultural life, offering unique attractions for every kind of traveler. The city left us with enduring memories and a longing to return.

Visited last in July 2023