Lisbon takes you back in time. The tilework on all the buildings is beautiful, the food is incredible and the wine is intoxicating. Here, I have put together for you a complete guide to Lisbon, Portugal.
Where to Stay
We stayed in Alfama, which is the most picturesque area of Lisbon. You will be in walking distance to almost everything you want to do. When we landed in Lisbon we got an Uber to take us to our hotel. We stayed at Lisbon Downtown Inn and I highly recommend it. It is an affordable, small boutique hotel that is clean and cute as a button! We got a room with floor to ceiling doors that open to the street below. There was a cafe table and chairs where we enjoyed a bottle of wine one night while listening to the hustle and bustle below (wine glasses & a bottle opener were already provided in the room). The owner even chatted with us and gave us some restaurant suggestions!
Where to Eat
The food in Lisbon is to die for! Honestly, I would go back just for the food. Avoid restaurants in the touristy areas that have people outside trying to reel you in. Do your research before you go to avoid ending up at mediocre restaurants. Or just go to the restaurants I suggest below in my guide to Lisbon, Portugal.
Prado Restaurante
This was our first meal in Lisbon and on our whole trip, and it was a hard one to beat. They serve their food tapas-style, small plates for sharing. We ordered five dishes and two desserts, some our choice and some suggested to us by the waitress. Each dish just melted in your mouth. Make a reservation beforehand here.
Tapisco
We weren’t supposed to eat here, but I am glad we did. The restaurant we wanted to go to was packed and we did not have a reservation. This restaurant was also packed, but we got lucky with two seats at the bar. Sitting at the bar was a great experience because you could watch all the chefs cooking right in front of you. If you do one thing, you must get the octopus rice! Make a reservation beforehand here.
Nicolau
Nicolau is an awesome place for brunch! This restaurant was steps from where we stayed and there was always a line to be seated, so we figured we had to try it. I got the açaí bowl, a match latte, and a green juice. My husband got the brunch special. Everything was very good and the health food we were craving.
Time Out Market
Time Out Market is a great place to go to for lunch. When you arrive do a lap around just to see what is offered, it can be overwhelming at first. There are plenty of traditional Portuguese food stands, but there are also some American and Asian inspired options. In the center you can get drinks such as beer, sangria or an Aperol Spritz. Be sure to save room for dessert!
MUSA
MUSA is a brewery a quick tuk tuk ride from town, good beers with a good atmosphere. This brewery was suggested to us by our waiter at Tapisco. Peach Boys (a peach sour beer) was my favorite beer, Born in the IPA is their signature beer and also very good. If you would like to eat here, be sure to make a reservation. We opted to take the local bus back, just a few stops.
Old Pharmacy
Great little wine bar located in an old pharmacy. If you would like to actually be seated in the pharmacy section of the wine bar make a reservation in advance. They have an extensive wine list and wine tastings. We had some great wines suggested to us by the server along with some olives and the ham & melon that just melted in your mouth.
What to Do
Castelo de São Jorge
A picturesque castle located atop a hill in Lisbon with amazing views of the city. We walked up from our hotel, meandering through quaint little streets and eventually stumbling upon the entrance. We walked through the gardens first, enjoying the views of the city. Next, we entered the castle exploring all the different towers. Be sure to look out for peacocks in the trees above!
Tram #28
This tram route takes you through the most beautiful parts of Lisbon in a classic tram from the 1930s. Hop on at either end if you want to be able to sit, Martim Moniz or Campo Ourique. Ride it early or late in the day and beware of pickpockets. Get the 24-hour public transport ticket at a metro station or pay in change if you don’t plan on hopping on and off.
Praça do Comércio
Head to this historic plaza to take in the waterfront views, beautiful architecture and a central statue. The plaza is surrounded by shopping and cafes for a leisurely day in Lisbon. Avoid men trying to sell you illegal drugs, fake drugs.
Sintra
Although not in Lisbon, this still made it in to my guide to Lisbon, Portugal. Sintra is a great day trip from Lisbon, you can get there via public transportation from Lisbon. We, however, rented a car and stopped there before heading down to the Algarve coast. Driving through Sintra really takes you back in time! Weaving through the tight streets all the up to the top of the mountain where Pena Palace is located. Go as soon as it opens to avoid crowds. We went pretty early in the morning and the palace was still packed when we got there. Make your way to the palace first and then meander through the lovely gardens afterwards.
I hope you enjoyed my guide to Lisbon, Portugal. Don’t forget to book your trip with your favorite travel planner, yours truly. If you liked this post, check out A Long Weekend in Copenhagen, Denmark!
