Bem-vindo a Lisboa!

Maybe you’ve stumbled here because you’re planning a trip, or you just want to see how people like me have traveled to Portugal’s most populous city and one of the oldest cities in Western Europe. 

This city is one of the most important in Europe, leaving its mark on history during the height of its maritime dominance across the world.

While it doesn’t have that same geopolitical dominance today, it certainly balances this with its global cultural and historical significance. I definitely loved my time in this beautiful city and I hope by the end of this post that you’ll come to the same conclusion—and even book your next trip!

Getting To Lisbon

There are many ways to get to Lisbon, either via Lisbon Airport (LIS) or by train, since the city has connections from major cities across Europe.

We arrived at Lisbon’s main train station, Gare do Oriente, via the Alfa Pendular train from Porto. 

If you’re taking the train, make sure to arrive early to your designated train car first, so you easily stow your luggage in the vestibule area. The better way is to just reserve your seats in advance. This way, you can relax and enjoy the scenic ride at speeds of up to 221 km/h (137 mph). The journey itself is beautiful with beautiful Portuguese landscape quickly passing by your window.

If Lisbon is just a stop on your European adventure, then at least get some food. You can grab a quick and surprisingly delicious bite at Frango da Gare – their roast chicken is a local favorite – or store your luggage at the Pickupluggage.com counter before heading out to explore the city.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

• Luxury: For a central location and historical charm, the Hyatt Regency Lisbon in Belém is a top choice, especially when booked through Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts.
• Unique: The Palácio Estoril Hotel, Golf & Wellness in Estoril, known as the “James Bond Hotel,” offers a luxurious stay with a touch of intrigue. See my review here. 

Both Uber and trains offer affordable transportation options within and around Lisbon (when compared to most major American cities).

Day 1

5:00 PM: Check into your hotel and freshen up.

Check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up after your journey, whether you’ve been on a plane or an extended train ride.

Evening: Take a taxi to the 25 de Abril Bridge, Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge

Take a taxi to the 25 de Abril Bridge, which bears a lot of resemblance to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. You can choose to take it easy and enjoy the hotel amenities or venture out to appreciate the bridge’s impressive structure and the beautiful views of Lisbon.

Shop The Gear I Used

Here’s the essential gear that kept me going on my travels (disclaimer: contains affiliate links).

Day 2

I would decide how you want to make your way around the city. In our case, it was best to do a loop with one of the furthest destinations. Given that we started at Belem Tower

9:00 AM: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for a day of exploration.

10:30 AM: Head to Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Portugal’s maritime prowess.

Head to Belém Tower, a 16th-century fortification that was originally a departure point for seafarers embarking on their voyages, highlighting the importance of sailing in Portuguese history. 

If you’re planning to visit multiple sightseeing destinations, I would recommend getting a Lisboa Tourist Card, which grants you free entry to many attractions and unlimited use of public transportation. 

Otherwise, if you’re on a budget, feel free to enjoy the tower’s impressive exterior. However, if you plan to use public transportation frequently and visit multiple attractions, the Lisboa Card might be a good investment.

Insider Tip: The Lisboa Card can be purchased at the airport upon arrival or at various tourist information centers throughout the city. It is valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours from the time of first use, so choose the duration that best suits your travel plans.

Next, visit the nearby Belem Lighthouse and continue your way to the Monument to the Discoveries.

While you can go inside and look at the Monument to the Discoveries, I found it better to observe from the outside. 

This monument pays tribute to Portugal’s Age of Exploration, depicting key figures like Prince Henry the Navigator, Vasco da Gama, and Ferdinand Magellan (whose name I realized I’ve been pronouncing wrong all this time!). The figures face outward towards the Tagus River, symbolizing their journeys to uncharted territories.

As you gaze at these figures, you can almost feel the spirit of adventure and discovery that propelled Portugal to the forefront of global exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries.

The monument’s design, resembling the prow of a ship, is a powerful symbol of Portugal’s maritime heritage. The figures on the monument face outward towards the Tagus River, representing their journeys to uncharted territories. The central figure, Prince Henry the Navigator, holds a caravel, a type of ship that played a crucial role in Portuguese exploration.

While exploring the monument, you might come across a panel depicting a mermaid. This scene is likely a reference to the legend of King Sebastian, a young Portuguese king who disappeared in 1578 at the Battle of Alcácer Quibir. His disappearance led to the rise of Sebastianism, a messianic cult that believed in his eventual return to save Portugal. This myth became deeply ingrained in Portuguese culture and folklore, and the mermaid is sometimes seen as a symbol of the temptations and dangers that King Sebastian faced on his ill-fated crusade.

Of course, I could be missing information as I was eavesdropping on a paid tour group. Don’t judge!

11:30 AM: Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, another UNESCO gem and a masterpiece of Manueline architecture.

From the Monument of the Discoveries, take a roughly 7 minute walk to Jerónimos Monastery.

As you make your way, you’ll pass through a subterranean passage that will take you under the busy road. If you’re lucky, then you will find local artists who sometimes set up in this passage, hand-painting beautiful Lisboa-style tiles that often depict scenes of the city, including the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge.

The Jerónimos Monastery is a stunning example of Manueline architecture, a uniquely Portuguese style that flourished during the Age of Discovery. 

The monastery also houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama, the famous Portuguese explorer who discovered the sea route to India. 

1:00 PM: Don’t miss the world-famous Pasteis de Nata (custard tarts) at the historic Pastéis de Belém bakery.

A trip to Belém isn’t complete without indulging in Pasteis de Nata at the Pasteis de Belém bakery. 

These creamy custard tarts, baked to golden perfection and dusted with cinnamon, are a Lisbon institution. 

Pro tip: To experience Pastéis de Belém with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, arrive before 3:00 PM, especially during peak season. You might still encounter a line, but the wait is worth it for this iconic Lisbon treat. If you’re visiting in the shoulder season, like April, the lines are typically much shorter.

Note: I found the service here is quite poor, to be honest. 

There were a lot of folks waiting who couldn’t get the waiters’ attention. So, I would recommend you raise your hand to flag the waiter so you’re not waiting for several minutes. 

Also, you’ll want to come before 3:00 PM since it starts to get busy starting at 2:40, with much longer lines. Then you will start to see a litany of different tour groups start to fill up the queue.

I think it’s worth it to come for its historical perspective. However, keep in mind that you’ll find delicious Pastéis de Nata throughout Lisbon and Portugal.

2:00 PM: Explore Belem’s charming shops and gardens.

After satisfying your sweet tooth, take some time to explore the rest of Belém. You’ll find a mix of tourist shops like Toranja, which is right next to Pasteis de Belem, offering locally made souvenirs in case you want to bring objects home.

Also don’t be shocked by tourists lining up for McDonald’s and Burger King that are blended right in this historic district. 

For a more serene experience, wander to the nearby Jardim de Belém (Belém Garden). This tranquil park offers a peaceful escape from the bustling streets, with plenty of benches to relax on and soak up the atmosphere.

Alternatively, head to the Garden of Afonso de Albuquerque, a beautifully manicured garden that’s actually located in front of Belém Palace, the official residence of the President of Portugal.

3:00 PM: Immerse yourself in the world of Azulejo tiles at R. de Lapa 110.

From Belém, take an Uber to R. de Lapa 110, which is roughly a 9-minute drive. 

Here you will stumble on some of the most beautiful Azulejo tilework that make up the Libon’s most vibrant colors. It’s here that I would wander to where your eyes fill with content and plenty of photo taking opportunities to get wallpaper designs. 

These ceramic tiles are a quintessential part of Portuguese culture, adorning buildings, churches, and even metro stations. 

Take your time to wander through the streets, admiring the different designs and appreciating the artistry that goes into each tile. You might even stumble upon some hidden gems, like a local artist at work or a friendly resident eager to share the history of their tiled facade (which is what happened in our case). So, you will find some photos of those who opted-in to have their buildings photographed. I wish marketing worked this easily in my day job.

In my case, I went crazy with different types of Kodak film with my 35mm camera to make sure I could capture different patterns. 

Since this is your own exploration, feel free to spend as much time as you’d like wandering and admiring the tiles. Depending on the weather and your interest level, you could easily spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more.

What I did find interesting is that the Azulejo tiles are rather normal here. And I wonder, would this be the same thing if someone came to the USA and started taking pictures of our white picket fences? I don’t know. Shoot me a message if you think so.

5:00 PM: Indulge in a delicious pour-over coffee at Fabrica Coffee Roasters.

After your tile adventure, make your way to Fabrica Coffee Roasters on Av. Dom Carlos to get some great tasting pour over coffee. 

6:00 PM: Ride the iconic Tram 28, starting from the Campo Ourique (Prazeres) terminus to avoid long lines.

The yellow Tram 28 is a Lisbon icon–you’ve most likely seen it on postcards, souvenirs, and even in tourist information stops upon arriving in Lisbon. This tram winds its way through the city’s historic neighborhoods.

Pro Tip: Avoid the Crowds at Martim Moniz

I WOULD NOT. I repeat WOULD NOT catch the tram at the Martim Moniz stop. If you actually go there even in April you will see that there is roughly a 30-45 minute line. Imagine in June or July, you’re waiting double the time that I listed above.

Instead, I would follow Dave in Portugal’s advice in his video “LISBON: Everything You MUST KNOW Before Visiting” and actually catch the tram at Campo Ourique (Prazeres), which is the end of the line. I would just Uber there to make it easier for you.

What you will notice is that some people will hop on the train near the end of the line and think they can go around the city. However, that’s not the case, because all passengers must leave or get kicked off the train once they arrive at Campo Ourique. 

Therefore that means you have first dibs to get on the train and take it all the way to Martin Moniz.

Be Prepared for Tour Groups

Even with this strategy, be aware that tour groups often use Tram 28.

You’ll have to watch out for seasoned tour groups who will show up waiting to ride the tram. This happened to us, where we encountered a group of 50 French people who had been traveling for over a week from the North of Portugal to the South and were heading to the Alfama district.

So, while you can kill time in the bar nearby, Quiosque 28, just make sure to line up before people get on the tram. In this case, the tour group was respectful and waited in line, but not everyone will adhere to that when they’re trying to get on the tram. You also want to make sure you’re near the front of the line since you’ll want to sit down for the roughly hour-long journey. From end to end (not including waiting for the tram to arrive), it was 1 hour and 2 minutes. Of course, the time can vary.

Therefore, be polite but assertive, and don’t hesitate to claim your spot in line to secure a seat for the roughly hour-long journey.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Tram 28 Experience:

• Purchase a 24-hour Viva Viagem pass: This pass offers unlimited rides on all trams, buses, and the metro for 24 hours, making it a cost-effective option for exploring Lisbon.
• Choose your seat wisely: The right side of the tram offers the best views as you head towards Martim Moniz.
• Hold on tight: The tram navigates narrow, winding streets with sharp turns.
• Watch out for pickpockets: While Tram 28 is generally safe, it’s always wise to be vigilant and keep your belongings secure.

Tram 28 Practicalities:

• No bathrooms on board: Be sure to use the restroom before hopping on, as the journey can be quite long.
• Limited space for strollers and large bags: If you’re traveling with bulky items, consider alternative transportation options.
• Enjoy the Ride! Tram 28 is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a journey through Lisbon’s history and culture. So sit back, relax, and savor the sights and sounds as you ride this iconic tram through the heart of the city.

Emergency Bathroom Break

The train does not have a bathroom on board and it will be very hard to get back on once it’s rolling since it will be filled with tourists. 

If you find yourself in dire need of a bathroom after disembarking at Martim Moniz, head to the nearby Hotel Mundial and use their bathroom (simply walk in and head to your left).

Day 3

Get an early start to the day and plan to spend considerable time in Lisbon’s Alfama District.

9:00 AM: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.

10:00 AM: Explore the historic Alfama district, starting with Castelo de São Jorge for panoramic city views.

Lace up your most comfortable walking shoes and prepare to be enchanted by Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric district. You will be doing a lot of walking but also a lot of photo-taking. 

Start your exploration at Castelo de São Jorge, a Moorish-era castle perched atop the highest hill in Lisbon that dates back to Moorish times that offers sweeping views of the city. 

Insider Tip: Consider purchasing a ticket for the castle’s Camera Obscura. This unique optical device projects a 360-degree live image of the city onto a screen within a darkened room, offering a fascinating way to see Lisbon’s landmarks.

While exploring the castle grounds, you can also check out Torre da Igreja do Castelo de São Jorge (Bell Tower of the Church of St. George). 

However, you have a particular interest in bells or are looking for a unique spot to enjoy a glass of wine with a view, it might not be worth the entrance fee of 5€. It’s just a glorified tourist trap. I found the views on the surrounding castle grounds already quite impressive and skipped this attraction.

Afternoon: Wander through Alfama’s charming streets

From the castle, make your way down into the heart of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric neighborhood.

Take a leisurely stroll toward the impressive Lisbon Cathedral with its intricate Gothic facade and the surrounding historic buildings. Make sure to grab some good photos! 

As you wander through Alfama’s labyrinthine streets, be sure to stop by Contrast (located here). This shop specializes in locally designed, ethically made t-shirts made from 100% organic cotton. Their simple yet colorful designs make for unique souvenirs or stylish additions to your wardrobe. I really wanted this t-shirt, but it was sold out.

Before leaving Alfama, don’t miss the Miradouro das Portas do Sol.  This picturesque viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Alfama district, the Tagus River, and the iconic red rooftops that characterize Lisbon (also another stop to grab more photos!).

7:30 PM: Experience an unforgettable evening of Fado music and dinner at O Corrido – Casa de Fado.

As the sun sets over Lisbon, prepare for an unforgettable evening of Fado music and dinner at O Corrido – Casa de Fado. This intimate and authentic Fado house is a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly unique cultural experience in Lisbon.

This stop was the pièce de résistance of the entire trip! Again, another great recommendation by Dave in Portugal.

Insider Tip: Be sure to make reservations in advance, as this popular venue fills up quickly. O Corrido is more than just a restaurant; it’s a journey into the heart and soul of Fado, a traditional Portuguese music genre that’s recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

What to Expect at O Corrido

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the warm hospitality of the Ribelo family, who own and run this establishment with passion and dedication. The owner, Filipe, is a charismatic polyglot who effortlessly converses in multiple languages, setting the stage for a truly international and welcoming atmosphere.

Before the performance begins, Filipe will introduce the evening’s program in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French. 

In our experience, this mult-lingual introduction elicited a surprising applause from the audience who expected at 100% portuguese introduction. I have to say, he definitely knows his audience, as he used some marketing tactics to woo this international audience. 

The Magic of Fado

As the lights dim and the fadistas (Fado singers) take the stage, you’ll be transported to another world. Fado’s melancholic melodies, often exploring themes of love, loss, and the sea, are deeply rooted in Portuguese history and culture. The raw emotion and expressive vocals of the fadistas create an intimate and unforgettable experience.

Claudia Duarte, Filipe’s wife and a talented fadista, possesses a voice that effortlessly glides through the air (like a knife cutting through butter), yet her control and projection are mesmerizing. Like a powerful wave, her voice can surge and crash or gently lap at the shore, carrying the audience on a tide of emotions.

Fado’s connection to the sea and the lives of sailors is deeply intertwined with Portuguese culture. You can witness this connection in the sardine factories of Porto, like the Pinhais factory, or by exploring the Monumento Tragédia no Mar, a monument dedicated to those lost at sea.

Etiquette Tip: Please be mindful of the performers and the tradition of Fado by refraining from talking or making noise during the performances. Applause is typically reserved for the end of each song.

Do keep this in mind. There were a few in the audience making noises—mostly Americans—which was kind of off-putting given the environment.

During the Performance 

While you immerse yourself, make sure to get Ginjinha while you’re there—this reddish spirit is usually served in a small shot glass. As an article in the New Wine Review puts it, it’s “part of the fabric of the city.” This sweet cherry liqueur is often served in a chocolate cup and is a popular drink to enjoy while listening to Fado. It’s a local specialty that perfectly complements the melancholic music.

O Corrido: A Family Affair

O Corrido is a true labor of love for the Ribelo family. Filipe, a former physicist and math professional, turned his passion for Fado into this thriving establishment. His wife, Claudia Duarte, is a talented fadista who graces the stage with her powerful vocals before returning to her duties at the front of house. The family’s dedication to preserving this cultural treasure is evident in every aspect of the experience. All of these elements made this experience nothing short of breathtaking. 

Filipe mentioned that performers have to know around 2,000 songs, and the songs are chosen at random. That means there’s no prior practice; it’s almost as if Fado itself is like a snowflake in music—no two performances are identical.

The other fun fact was that we ended up talking about a wide range of topics, from Hooke’s law, his background to his love of learning, and even our shared interest on playing video games like Diablo and World of Warcraft. This eclectic mix of interests only adds to the charm and uniqueness of the O Corrido experience.

Exploring the World of Fado

While O Corrido is a fantastic introduction to Fado, Lisbon offers a variety of Fado venues. Consider exploring other options like Mesa de Frades, A Severa, or Tasca do Chico to experience different styles and atmospheres.

Before your visit, take some time to research the history and cultural significance of Fado. This will deepen your appreciation for the music and the stories it tells.

Day 4

It’s all coming to end..but it doesn’t have to!

9:00 AM: Enjoy your final breakfast in Lisbon.

10:30 AM: Explore Time Out Market, a culinary paradise with diverse food stalls and gourmet treats.

Time Out Market is a food lover’s paradise, showcasing Lisbon’s vibrant culinary scene under one roof. With dozens of stalls offering everything from traditional Portuguese dishes to innovative fusion cuisine, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Stroll through the market, taking in the sights and smells of freshly prepared delicacies. Sample local cheeses, cured meats, and seafood specialties. Indulge in a gourmet burger or savor a plate of bacalhau, a beloved Portuguese codfish dish. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try “petiscos,” Portuguese tapas, which are perfect for sharing.

Must-Try Stalls:

• Manteigaria Silva (cheese and charcuterie): This family-run establishment offers a selection of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, perfect for creating a personalized picnic.
• Croqueteria (bifana sandwiches): For a taste of Portugal’s favorite street food, try the “bifana,” a flavorful pork sandwich marinated in garlic and spices.
• Sea Me (fresh seafood): Seafood lovers will delight in the fresh catches at Sea Me, including oysters, clams, and grilled octopus.

Insider Tip: Be sure to grab a table early, as Time Out Market can get crowded, especially during lunch and dinner hours.

A Taste of Portugal in a Tin:

Before you leave, make a stop at Terra de Bacalhau, a shop specializing in “conservas” – traditional Portuguese canned fish. This culinary tradition dates back centuries, and Terra de Bacalhau offers a modern take on this classic with their “OH MY COD” tinned codfish with olive oil.

 

It’s a must-try, offering a unique and flavorful taste of Portugal that you can easily take home as a souvenir or gift. (In fact, it’s the featured photo on this website’s Portugal landing page!)

11:30 AM: Visit the nearby Jardim Dom Luis Park and browse the vendor stalls for unique souvenirs.

After Time Out Market, head to the nearby Jardim Dom Luis Park, a charming green space lined with vendor stalls offering a variety of goods.

You’ll find everything from local artists selling their crafts to clothing designers showcasing their latest creations. 

One standout is the ThaiPor store, which features unique designs that are old Thai-seed and rice bags that are retrofitted into eye-catch, fashiony designs.  

12:30 PM: Stroll along Av. Riberia das Naus, a scenic route along the river, and continue to Praça do Comércio.

Walk along the Av. Riberia das Naus which is a scenic route that takes you through numerous neighborhoods along the river where it used to be the ancient center of town where galleons used to unload their riches and all the way up to the Praça do Comércio.

From here you can make your way to the Arco de Rua Augusta and make your way down R. Augusta to see the numerous shops that line this popular walkway. 

1:30 PM: Shop for unique souvenirs at Typographic and Teevolution.

Stop by Typographic to get some cool Lisbon-themed t-shirts. Then make your way to Teevolution–where you can get t-shirts printed with local designs for dirt cheap.

3:00 PM: Sample local craft beers at Dois Corvos Intendente Taproom.

What better way to wrap up your Lisbon adventure on a positive note than by indulging in some local craft beer? After all, living in the Pacific Northwest (in my case), I love some IPAs! 

Head to Dois Corvos Intendente Taproom, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. They have a wide selection of unique and flavorful beers on tap—I wish I’d kept track of the ones I tried (my phone died and was recharging behind their counter). However, either way, I’m sure you’ll find something that suits your taste.

I have to give a shoutout to Silvio from the brewery. He was incredibly friendly and helpful, even suggesting some delicious food options form the menu. 

Surprisingly, he recommended the burger, claiming it had been a hit with American visitors. Since the burger was “American-tested,” I had to give it a try. While the burger was decent, the real stars of the show were the beers, with each one hitting the spot in its own unique way.

5:00 PM: Head to Lisbon Airport, allow ample time for transportation.

As your Lisbon adventure comes to an end, it’s time to make your way to the airport. 

Plan your departure carefully, as traffic in Lisbon can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. 

If you plan on taking an Uber, be aware that they do not drop you off directly near the terminal door. Instead, they will drop you off at a designated area within the airport complex, which requires a short walk to the terminal.  Be prepared to gather your belongings quickly, as other passengers may be waiting to board the Uber as soon as you exit.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Airport Experience:

• Check-in Online: Save time by checking in for your flight online before arriving at the airport. 
• Utilize the Metro: Lisbon’s metro system is an efficient and affordable way to reach the airport. The Aeroporto – Saldanha line connects directly to the airport and is a convenient option, especially if you’re staying in the city center.
• Pack Light (or Not!): If possible, pack light to avoid checked baggage fees and streamline the security process. But who am I kidding? I always have 60 lbs+ with purchases from gifts to souvenirs. 
• Take Advantage of Airline Perks: If you have status with an airline like Delta, you might be eligible for priority check-in and security lanes, making your departure even smoother, such as Lisbon Airport’s “Fast Track.” This service is akin to TSA PreCheck in the United States. This makes the whole process a breeze and takes barely minutes to get through.

Now that you’ve gotten a taste of Lisbon you have more knowledge to arm you to come back as a much informed traveler.

I hope this guide helped you!

Lisbon

Tips, Tricks, and Logistics

• Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: If possible, visit Lisbon in April or during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to avoid the larger crowds that typically arrive in the summer months.
• Explore Hidden Gems: Venture off the beaten path and visit the Roman galleries beneath Rua da Prata.
• Lisboa Card: Consider purchasing a Lisboa Card to save money on attractions and public transportation.
• Tram 28 Strategy: Start your Tram 28 ride from the Campo Ourique (Prazeres) terminus to avoid long lines.
• Fado Experience: Make a reservation at O Corrido – Casa de Fado for an unforgettable Fado experience.

Trip Soundtrack

Because every adventure needs a soundtrack, each of my trips comes with a theme song. And for this trip's anthem? Well, it's...

Fernando Daniel - Dois

Farewell, Lisbon!

Lisbon, a city where past and present harmoniously coexist, has undoubtedly left a lasting impression. 

From its historic landmarks to its vibrant culture and delectable cuisine, Lisbon offers a truly enriching travel experience. As you depart, carry with you the memories of Fado melodies, the taste of Pasteis de Nata, and the captivating beauty of Azulejo tiles. 

Armed with newfound knowledge and cherished memories, you’re now a more informed traveler, ready to embark on your next adventure.

Until we meet again, Adeus Lisboa!