Portugal’s capital city is often overlooked in favour of other more popular destinations. However, Lisbon has so much more to offer than you would have thought. If you’re looking for a vibrant holiday which will be kind to your pocket, look no further. I’ve done the (very enjoyable) work of visiting Lisbon and putting together a list of all the amazing ways you can make the most of your time in this corner of Europe.
Indulge your senses at Time Out Market/Mercado de Ribeira: Located in the Cais do Sodré district of Lisbon sits a food hall, home to numerous food stalls and chefs waiting ready to satisfy you. Treat your tastebuds. Let them revel in the dishes the market has to offer, not limited to just Portuguese food but cuisines from all over the world. Seafood? They have it. Asian dishes? In abundance. Delectable doughnuts? Yes, darling. Pizza? Of course. For traditional Portuguese food, be sure to visit the stall of chef Miguel Castro E Silva.
Party In Bairro Alto: The nightlife in Lisbon is one to be experienced. Visit the Bairro Alto neighbourhood after the sun goes down and patronize the bars and clubs sure to be playing music to get party people (regardless of music taste) dancing. Drinks deals abound aplenty and in no time, you’ll find yourself dancing on the cobbles outside a bar with a glass of Caipirinha in your hand.
Sit for a while in Rossio Square: The Rossio (or the King Pedro IV Square) is the liveliest in the city. Stop there for a while. Sit, relax or people-watch underneath the 27-meter-high monument. Alternatively, visit one of the cafes with outdoor seating surrounding the square and treat yourself to a pastel de nata.
Eat pasteis de nata everyday: Be sure to sample this popular Portuguese egg custard tart pastry during your stay in Lisbon. Sweet, flaky and creamy, we recommend at least one a day.
Seek out treasures at Feira da Ladra: Traders at this major flea market, which dates back to 1272, display an eclectic mix of items, ranging from homewares to jewellery, antiques, clothing etc. Visit on Tuesdays and Saturdays for your chance to find the perfect souvenir of your time in the amazing city of Lisbon
Marvel at aquatic life at the Lisbon Oceanarium: Want to look at giant stingrays, penguins, sharks, barracudas, otters and eels? Well, you can see all of those under one roof at the Oceanarium, which is the second largest aquarium in Europe. The gigantic building is home of thousands of aquatic and semi-aquatic animals and you’ll need more than a few hours to see them all and really take it all in. Words and pictures can’t really do it justice.
Ride Tram 28: No visit to Lisbon is complete without utilising the city’s famous tram system and there’s no tram worth getting more than the number 28. Ride it the yellow tram through the popular districts of Estrela, Baixa, Alfama and Gracia and take in the amazing scenery. Just don’t miss your stop when you decide to get off where you started.
Visit Portas do Sol twice: Take in the wonderful view from the Portas do Sol during the day and go again at night to be impressed once more. The terrace overlooks the rooftops of Alfama and the Tagus River. Appreciate the view while enjoying a glass – or two – of sangria from the cocktail bar.
Dance Until You Drop In R. Nova do Carvalho: This street (and its environs) is home to many clubs where you can party until the sun comes up. Espumantaria do Cais and Pink Wine Point are just two of many venues where you can party with other travellers until 3am (or 4am if you can handle it).
Take a day trip to the nearby town of Cascais: If you have a spare day, why not go on a day trip to the nearby quieter town of Cascais. The train route to the seaside town is a beauty and the tracks get so close to the sea that you can see the waves crashing onto the rocky shore on the way there. Wander the cobbled streets, look in the many souvenir shops and end the day with a fresh seafood dinner at highly-rated restaurant Mariscaria.
SophisticateQueen 