Exploring Lisbon, the alluring capital perched on the Atlantic coast, is akin to embarking on a journey through time and culture. With its blend of ancient history and contemporary charm, this vibrant city offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be unravelled. From its iconic yellow trams meandering through narrow streets to the soul-stirring melodies of fado music drifting from quaint taverns, Lisbon beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors. So, let’s embark on a captivating adventure through the winding alleys and panoramic vistas of Lisbon, where every turn reveals a new chapter in its captivating story.
Where to Eat and Drink in Lisbon
Lisbon is truly a culinary hotspot with an abundance of fantastic restaurants and bars. Enjoy delicious seafood and ameijoas, sardines, a tasty piece of meat, or modern vegan dishes. Here are some of the best restaurants you shouldn’t miss during your visit to this enchanting city.
- BarAlto
BarAlto is a cozy and trendy spot in the heart of Bairro Alto. This restaurant is known for its creative Portuguese dishes with a modern twist. The atmospheric interior and friendly service make it the perfect place for a relaxed evening out. - Sea Me
Sea Me is a popular seafood restaurant in the Chiado district. Here, you can enjoy a variety of fresh fish dishes, sushi, and fusion cuisine. The modern and lively interior provides a dynamic dining experience, ideal for seafood lovers. - Mercado da Ribeira
Mercado da Ribeira, also known as Time Out Market, is a food court where you can taste a wide range of Portuguese and international dishes. From traditional pastéis de nata to exotic cuisine, there’s something for everyone here. The bustling and informal atmosphere makes it a great place to discover different flavors. - LX Factory & 1300 Taberna
1300 Taberna, located in the LX Factory, offers a unique dining experience in an industrial setting. This restaurant serves creative and seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. The trendy interior and artistic atmosphere make it a favorite spot among locals and tourists alike. - Cervejaria Trindade
Cervejaria Trindade is owned by the Trindade brewery, the oldest brewery in Portugal, which began producing and selling beer in 1834. Located in a former monastery, this restaurant offers a historic ambiance and an extensive selection of beers. The menu features traditional Portuguese dishes that pair perfectly with a good glass of beer. - Largo
Largo is a stylish restaurant housed in a historic building in Chiado. It offers refined cuisine with a focus on Portuguese and international dishes. The elegant interior, with unique lighting and decor, provides a chic and romantic dining experience. - Restaurante A Praça
Located in the creative hub LX Factory, Restaurante A Praça offers a relaxed and hip dining experience. The menu is varied and includes both Portuguese classics and international dishes. The informal atmosphere and artistic decor make it a popular choice for both lunch and dinner. - Bacalhau com Todos
Bacalhau com Todos is a tribute to the beloved Portuguese codfish. This restaurant, located near Alfama, offers an extensive selection of bacalhau dishes. The cozy interior and authentic flavors make it a must-visit for fans of this traditional fish. - Palace Chiado – Dining in a Palace
Palace Chiado offers a luxurious dining experience in a beautifully restored 18th-century palace. The restaurant has several dining rooms, each with a unique theme and decor. The menu combines traditional Portuguese dishes with modern influences, providing a culinary experience in a majestic setting.
Transportation in Lisbon
Once you’ve arrived and checked in, you’ll want to tick off all the attractions on your list as quickly as possible, so it’s handy to take a look beforehand at how to navigate Lisbon.
Uber in Lisbon: Convenience and Comfort During Your City Trip
Lisbon is a city that you can explore with ease, and one of the most convenient ways to navigate its winding streets and hilly neighborhoods is with Uber. Whether you’re quickly getting from the airport to your hotel or traveling from the bustling Bairro Alto to the tranquil district of Belém, Uber offers a comfortable and reliable option.
Renting a Car in Lisbon
If you’re staying longer than a weekend, it’s worth considering exploring the areas outside the city center. In that case, renting a car may be convenient. You can book one via Easyterra or Sunnycars for just a few euros per day. Also, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the traffic rules in Portugal beforehand.
Taking the Metro
My heart immediately races at the sight of the metro system in Lisbon. There are 4 lines: red, blue, yellow, and green. Colors! Each line has different metro cars in… those… colors! So beautiful, so organized, so convenient. And for the colorblind, there are also beautifully detailed symbols next to them.
The metro is easy to use and well-organized. Clear route maps and information boards are available at each station. Tickets can be purchased from machines at the stations, and the fares are wallet-friendly. A handy tip is to purchase a Viva Viagem card, which you can top up for multiple rides or a day pass. This card costs €0.50 and is rechargeable. So if you don’t plan to use the metro much, this is the most cost-effective option. You can also buy a 24-hour ticket for €6.50.
With four different lines connecting the main neighborhoods and attractions, the metro offers a quick and easy way to get around.
The Lisbon metro runs frequently and quickly takes you to popular attractions such as the historic Alfama district, the vibrant Baixa-Chiado area, and the modern Parque das Nações district. Moreover, the metro connects the airport directly to the city center, making it ideal for arrival and departure.
Lisbon Card
This is the official tourist card of Lisbon, which allows you to use public transport (bus, tram, metro, and city lift) for free, skip queues, and visit the most beautiful attractions in Lisbon. Additionally, it includes a free train trip to Sintra and Cascais for when you’ve had enough of Lisbon. You can purchase this card online in advance or in Lisbon itself at one of the ask me Lisboa centers.
Some interesting facts about Lisbon
- The City of Seven Hills
Like Rome, Lisbon is often referred to as the “City of Seven Hills.” These hills offer breathtaking viewpoints over the city, such as the view from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, which provides a panoramic vista of the red rooftops, the Tagus River, and the imposing São Jorge Castle. - Tram 28
The iconic yellow tram 28 is not just any tram; it’s a museum on tracks. This historic tram winds through the narrow, winding streets of Lisbon, passing through some of the most picturesque neighborhoods such as Alfama, Baixa, and Bairro Alto. Each ride is a nostalgic journey back in time and perfect for many photographers. - Fado: The Soul of Lisbon
Fado, the melancholic music style that resonates in the intimate taverns of Lisbon, has been declared intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. These songs, often accompanied by the Portuguese guitar, tell stories of love, loss, and daily life in the city, capturing the essence of the Portuguese soul. - Pastéis de Belém
A Sweet Tradition: No visit to Lisbon is complete without tasting the famous Pastéis de Belém. These delicious custard tarts, made according to a secret recipe dating back to the 19th century, are a symbol of Portuguese baking tradition. The original shop in Belém serves thousands of these sweet treats daily. - Lisbon’s Sunken Treasure
Beneath the streets of Lisbon lies a buried Roman amphitheater, discovered after the devastating earthquake of 1755. This archaeological wonder, located beneath the São Jorge Castle, offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of the city, revealing the deep-rooted layers of civilizations that once thrived here.
Traveling to Lisbon
By airplane
Lisbon is primarily a city trip destination, and for a shorter trip, you don’t want to waste too much time on the journey there and back. The airplane is still the fastest option and will take you to Lisbon Airport, Portela, just 7 km from the city center. You can hop on a shuttle bus directly from your flight, which passes every 20 minutes for just a few euros. Easy!
By car
Are you envisioning a more adventurous vacation? Or do you want to stay in Portugal a bit longer? In just over 20 hours, you can easily drive to Lisbon yourself. The estimated cost for this is about €350, which is a bit cheaper than two round-trip tickets and is therefore advantageous if you’re traveling with a group of friends, for example. Tip: Check in advance which toll roads you’ll pass and which vignettes you need to purchase to avoid unexpected costs. You can easily check this via this website.
As your Lisbon adventure beckons, whether you opt for the convenience of air travel or the thrill of a road trip, reaching this enchanting city marks just the start of an unforgettable journey. With its rich tapestry of history, vibrant cultural scene, and awe-inspiring vistas, Lisbon promises a treasure trove of experiences for every traveler. So, pack your bags, take to the skies or hit the open road, and get ready to immerse yourself in the allure of this captivating destination.
