Introduction

Famous for pastel-colored buildings clad in azulejo tiles, black & white patterned cobblestone streets and squares composed of basalt and limestone (calçada), delectable pastéis de nata (custard tarts), traditional fado concerts, yellow and white trams and funiculars, and cordial hospitality, Lisbon is a magnificent destination to explore.

Reminiscent of a botrytized wine, the city boasts an incredibly concentrated number of interesting places to visit in a compact setting. Smaller geographically than its European counterparts, Lisbon is easy to navigate both by foot and via public transportation. Ridesharing companies are readily available as well as tuk-tuks, which are always a fun option during the warmer months.

Lisbon is a beautiful city. Layers of soft-hued buildings capped with orange terracotta tiled roofs blanket the hillsides. A millennia-old stone castle, perched atop the highest hill, overlooks the city center and Tagus River. Ancient monasteries, convents, and cathedrals exist throughout. A cast-iron elevator with filigree details, the Elevador de Santa Justa, is one of the more unique sites within this hilly city. The grand Arco da Rua Augusta welcomes visitors to the main historic district of Baixa Pombalina.

If arriving by ship through the Tagus estuary, one is welcomed by views of the Belém Tower, the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and the Santuário de Cristo Rei. The massive Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge, completed in 1966, bears a striking resemblance to the Golden Gate Bridge of San Francisco and is a landmark of the city. After all, this region of the Iberian Peninsula is prone to seismic activity.

Getting Lost in Lisboa is sure to be a highlight of your time spent in Portugal. The gracious residents will make you feel welcome in their city. Culinary delights inclusive of fresh seafood, presunto and chorizo, queijos, and local pastries will leave you longing to return. The ornate architecture and overall aesthetic draw from the storied history of this place. Lisbon should be atop your list of destinations to experience.

Where to Stay

On our most recent visit last June, we chose to stay in the Alfama neighborhood. Centrally located, this area is within walking distance to many of our favorite places and restaurants.

Our 5th floor apartment was located adjacent to the Jardim Júlio de Castilho along Largo de Santa Luzia. Looking down to the street below through open French casement windows, the famed Tram 28 could be seen traveling up and down the rails regularly. It also happened to provide the perfect vantage point to watch the parades celebrating the Festas de Santo António (Festival of St. Anthony).

The park outside the Igreja de Santa Luzia is an ideal spot to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. A short walk through the narrow streets of the neighborhood leads to Mesa De Frades, a favorite restaurant to enjoy a traditional fado concert. This intimate setting was featured in the Eugene Levy television series, The Reluctant Traveler. Originally built as a chapel, the interior walls are covered in tiles dating back to the 18th century.

Walking uphill along the cobblestone Travessa do Chão da Feira alleyway leads to the Castelo de São Jorge National Monument. The castle rests atop the highest hill in Lisbon and the views overlooking Baixa and the Tagus are breathtaking. The original walls were built in the 2nd century BC and have been rebuilt many times over the centuries. We highly recommend visiting this spectacular fortress and viewpoint.

Many superb hotels and apartments exist throughout the city, but the Alfama neighborhood is a great place to stay due to its proximity to the many highlights of Lisbon. This charming quarter boasts an array of alleyway shops, restaurants, and squares and is sure to captivate any visitor who stays here.

Festival of Saint Anthony

Our stay overlapped with the Festas de Santo António, with festivities culminating on the evening of June 13th. This happenstance made our visit most enjoyable. The colorfully decorated streets came alive nightly with vendors grilling sardines, rows of tables packed with patrons dining, musicians entertaining, and crowds of people dancing. The vibrancy of the festival created a convivial atmosphere. We highly recommend traveling to Lisbon in mid-June should you enjoy immersing yourself in this type of cultural experience.

*Rossio Railway Station (Neo-Manueline Style) - Gateway to Sintra*

Highlights

Depending on the duration of your stay, Lisbon has enough places of interest to keep one exploring for months. However, should you only have a few days, some highlights include the following:

Elevador de Santa Justa - one of the most iconic structures in the heart of Lisbon, the Santa Justa elevator was erected in 1902. The elevator connects the lower street levels with Carmo Square on the hilltop above. Multiple observation decks exist for visitors to enjoy. A few of our favorite pieces of art were procured from street vendors near the flying buttress of the Carmo Archaeological Museum along Travessa Dom Pedro de Menezes. (Terracos do Carmo)
Castelo de São Jorge National Monument - featuring exceptional views over the city, the castle is one of the essential sites for all travelers to visit. The grounds include a museum, a restaurant, a camera obscura, and the archeological site. One is likely to be greeted by the ostentation of resident peafowl that roam the grounds.
Praça do Comércio & Arco da Rua Augusta - the main Square of Commerce with its massive arch welcoming visitors to the Baixa neighborhood is a must-see location. The square hosted port and customs activities dating back centuries. Travelers can visit the viewing platform atop the arch for beautiful views over the neighborhood and square.
Belém Tower & Padrão dos Descobrimentos - located within very close proximity to each other along the waterfront, both the medieval fortified tower and monument are worth a visit. A beautiful compass rose mosaic lies at the foot of the Padrão dos Descobrimentos along with a superb example of Portuguese cobblestone. The Belém Lighthouse sits between the two sites.
Jerónimos Monastery - the Manueline ornamentation of the monastery is incredible. The building currently hosts both the National Archeological Museum and Maritime Museum in its wings, but any architecture enthusiast must visit this location while in Lisbon. Monks from this monastery created the original recipe for the pastel de nata during the 1700s.
Mercado de Santa Clara - this expansive outdoor market is not to be missed during your stay in Lisboa. It operates on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Vendors selling antiques, historic azulejo tiles, old records, and fantastic foods line the streets. Beginning at the Arco Grande de Cima, the market continues until it wraps around the Jardim Botto Machado. Be sure to observe the tiled facade of the Casa dell'Arte Club House at Campo de Santa Clara 125 as you stroll along the streets.
Casa do Alentejo & Igreja de São Domingos de Lisboa - for Morocco enthusiasts, the interior atrium of the Casa do Alentejo building is a superb representation of Moorish architecture. The building showcases multifoil arches and hosts a restaurant, library, and office spaces. This hidden gem is only one block North of the renowned Praça do Rossio. After your visit, be sure to visit the nearby Igreja de São Domingos de Lisboa. Built in 1241, the interior features remnants of the earthquakes and fires it has endured over centuries.
Palácio da Rocha do Conde d’Óbidos (Red Cross Palace) - by appointment only, this repurposed building hosts one of the most beautiful libraries in Lisboa. If you enjoy interior design, this location is well worth a visit.
Museu Arqueológico do Carmo - sitting just behind the Elevador de Santa Justa, the archeological museum resides within a very unique structure. Originally a Gothic-style church, the Great Earthquake of 1755 left the structure in ruins. Reconstruction efforts began in 1756 but were suspended in 1834, leaving the nave and transept without cover. Today, it displays a significant amount of historically valuable archeological and artistic pieces for visitors to enjoy.
Santuário de Cristo Rei - inspired by Rio’s Christ the Redeemer monument, one of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments sits high above the southern bank of the Tagus and was completed in 1959. Guests will want to visit the outdoor observation deck providing an overlook of the area and suspension bridge.

*Arco da Rua Agusta from Praça do Comércio*

*Casa dell'Arte Club House façade - Campo de Santa Clara 125*

Favorite Eats

Lisbon is known for its culinary scene. Many fantastic restaurants exist serving both traditional and haute cuisine. Our favorites include:

Mesa De Frades - tucked away in a quiet corner of Alfama, Mesa De Frades is one of the most iconic spots along the “Fado route.” Originally built as a chapel in the D. Rosa Palace, the walls are covered in 18th century tiles depicting the Royal Coat of Arms, painted by King Joseph’s official artist. Aside from a lovely meal, Mesa De Frades presents some of the most renowned Fado singers and musicians. Spending an evening here is sure to be an enjoyable experience for all and was a highlight of our stay.
Alpendre - this intimate restaurant adjacent to the historic Lisbon Cathedral provided a most excellent meal on the first evening we spent in the city. The seasoned olives and goat cheese appetizer was superb. All four entrées were delicious, and an authentic Portuguese experience is delivered by this establishment.
Farol de Santa Luzia - founded in 1973, Farol de Santa Luzia has treated patrons to the best genuine Portuguese cuisine for the past fifty-two years. Originally established by a father and his cousin, the restaurant is now owned and operated by the father and his three sons. Surrounded by azulejo tiles, the room is adorned with traditional wooden tables and chairs in a cozy setting. Guests will enjoy a most delicious meal and experience at this eatery. We recommend the Cataplanas and the Bacalhau!
Maria Catita - recommended by the owner of the apartment we rented; Maria Catita is a splendid restaurant to enjoy Portuguese & Azorean cuisine. Set within thick stone walls with floor to ceiling glass windows, the restaurant evokes a trendy vibe in which one consumes epicurean delights. We greatly enjoyed our meal here on the last night of our stay. The sister establishment, O Bacalhoeiro wine bar, was a relaxing setting to sample Porto wine and charcuterie prior to our table being ready next door.
Ponto Final - located in the small town of Almada across the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge from Lisbon, Ponto Final offers up local cuisine at possibly the best sunset spot in the area. The bright white and yellow color palette welcome guests to dine along the banks of the Tagus. Great prices, fresh seafood, and a festive atmosphere make this hidden gem a must-visit location!

Pastel de Nata

Looking for the best pastel de nata? The delicious custard tart is one of the most famous desserts in Lisbon. Enjoy at any of these confeitarias:

Manteigaria - established in 2014, Manteigaria’s pastéis de nata are simply some of the best you’ll sample. Multiple locations exist, but their flagship bakery is located at Rua do Loreto No. 2. The Manteigaria União building is a historical landmark and is worth a visit. With their entire production process on display, every batch of baked pastéis de nata is marked with the ringing of a bell.
Pastelaria Aloma - situated in the outlying neighborhood of Campo de Ourique, Aloma is one of the finest pastry shops in Lisbon. Since 1943, they have baked exquisite creations highlighting traditional Portuguese flavors and also happen to make some of the best pastéis de nata. Aside from the many wonderful treats at Aloma, exploring Campo de Ourique is also a pleasure. If you long to get off the beaten path, explore this quieter neighborhood of Lisbon.
Pastéis de Belém - the original Pastéis de Belém (pastéis de nata) were baked in 1837 following an ancient secret recipe originating from within the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Using the same recipe over the past two centuries, the Pastéis de Belém bakery is a great place to try the original custard tart Lisbon has become renowned for. This shop is very close to the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos. We took our order to go and enjoyed them while strolling through the Jardim Botânico Tropical.

Conclusion

If Portugal is a destination you plan on visiting, do not miss an opportunity to spend time in Lisbon. This incredible city offers a plethora of historic sites, museums, monuments, botanical gardens, activities, and restaurants to enjoy.

As seafaring merchants have done for centuries, nothing concludes a visit like spending an afternoon cruising along the Tagus River. Watching a sunset at the Castelo de São Jorge is sure to leave a lasting impression. Listening to the haunting melodies of a fado concert is an experience you will long cherish. Partaking in the festivities of the Festas de Santo António is tantamount to experiencing the Festival of San Fermín or the Palio di Siena.

Aside from day trips to Sintra and all the other fantastic places to visit in Portugal, spending time in this capital city is an absolute must. The rich history, architecture, culinary delights, and friendly locals will make your time here most enjoyable. Lisbon will quickly become a city you long to return to again. Getting Lost in Lisboa will create memories that last a lifetime.

Travel Partner

For all of our adventures, we partner with Landmark Travel, a division of Preferred Travel & Company. To begin planning your travel to any of these unique destinations, contact Klara Collura:

Email: klari@landmark-travel.com
Phone: (954) 523-0727

Lost in Lisbon

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