This was my third visit to Lisbon, but Adam’s first. We were incredibly lucky to have my dear friend Rui, a Lisbon native, organize our entire visit. Thanks to him, every moment of our trip felt seamless and special.

Sightseeing in Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal’s coastal capital, is a city of vibrant charm. Perched over seven hillsides and overlooking the Rio Tejo, the city is a postcard-perfect blend of cobblestone streets, tiled palaces, and colorful plazas. We based ourselves at The Ivans Hotel in Chiado, a central location that made it easy to walk to all the major sights.

Wandering through the historic districts of Alfama and Mouraria, we encountered iconic yellow and red wooden trams, picturesque grapevine-covered squares, and the grandeur of São Jorge Castle. The miradouros (lookouts) scattered across the hills offered breathtaking views of the city’s red rooftops and the sparkling river below. We also explored the modern waterfront and strolled along the river, taking in the dynamic mix of old and new.

Eating & Drinking in Lisbon

Lisbon’s food scene is unmatched, ranging from cozy Portuguese tascas to Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy rooftop bars.

A few highlights from our culinary adventures:

• Ponto Final: Located across the river in Cacilhas, this restaurant offered stunning views and authentic Portuguese dishes. A perfect spot to enjoy lunch by the water.
• José Avillez’s Restaurants: We dined at Mini Bar in Lisbon and Mare in Cascais, savoring upscale dishes and gorgeous seafront views.
• Seen: This rooftop restaurant provided an unforgettable dining experience with panoramic views of the city.

Of course, no visit to Lisbon is complete without indulging in pastéis de nata, the addictive custard-filled pastries. Casper became our go-to spot for these sweet treats, given its proximity to our hotel and the sheer deliciousness of their offerings.

Music in Lisbon: Fado

One evening, we stumbled upon Tasca do Chico, a tiny venue renowned for its traditional Fado music. This soulful genre, which dates back to the 19th century, made for a magical night. The intimate setting, with its dim lights and hushed crowd, was perfect as we listened to three talented singers perform while sipping red wine. It was a quintessential Lisbon experience.

Day Trip to Sintra

Sintra, less than an hour from Lisbon, is a mystical and romantic town nestled in the mountains. While its UNESCO-listed sites like Castelo dos Mouros and Palácio Nacional de Pena are incredible, we opted to avoid the weekend crowds and explore the historic city center instead. Wandering away from the main town, we hiked to Cruz Alta, where we enjoyed stunning views of the Palace and Castle from a distance. Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying travesseiros, the region’s signature pastry filled with egg and almond. We then headed to lunch on the sea, on our way back to Lisbon.

Beaches Near Lisbon

To escape the city’s hustle, we spent an afternoon at a beach club outside Lisbon. While the Atlantic waters were too chilly for swimming (a brisk 65°F even in August!), the vibe was perfect for relaxation. Lounging, napping, and enjoying a leisurely lunch made it a delightful break from sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

Lisbon’s blend of culture, history, and modern vibrancy makes it a city I’ll never tire of visiting. Whether exploring its winding streets, indulging in its world-class food scene, or soaking in soulful Fado music, there’s always something new to discover. Sharing this experience with Adam and seeing it through his eyes, with the added touch of Rui’s thoughtful planning, made this trip truly unforgettable.