The avant-garde goes hand in hand with the past and creativity flourishes, amidst the monumentality that preserves the glories of yesteryear and the typical nature of its red roofs and pastel-colored houses, as unique as they are charming.
Lisbon, seductive capital
After Braga and Porto , we head south. The geographical and political centre and capital of a “country by the sea”, Lisbon is the most populous city (with over half a million inhabitants) and the most historically rich in Portugal. Millions of tourists visit its natural landscapes every year, the monuments that commemorate various historical events, its emancipated culture in its many forms, the typically Portuguese hospitality and the gastronomy, so appreciated both at home and abroad.
Considered a global tourist destination – having even won the World's Leading City Destination award in 2018 – Lisbon is a seductive capital, proud of its history but with its eyes on the future. The avant-garde goes hand in hand with the past and creativity flourishes, amidst the monumentality that preserves the glories of yesteryear and the typicality of its red roofs and pastel-colored houses, as unique as they are charming. Lose yourself in the streets of the capital and discover the best that Portugal has to offer.
What to visit?
Belém Tower . A monument built to serve as a gateway to the city and also as a defence against possible attacks from the Tagus, this bastion dates back to 1521 and has been a national monument since 1910. Today the Tower is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the capital and its typically Manueline architecture makes it one of the most iconic and well-known national symbols.
National Pantheon . Also known as the Church of Santa Engrácia, the Pantheon is an imposing Baroque monument that houses the tombs of Portugal’s most notable figures. Figures such as Amália Rodrigues, Almeida Garrett, Teófilo Braga, Humberto Delgado, Eusébio, Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen are buried here. You can also visit the cenotaphs – “ sepulchral monument erected in memory of a deceased person buried elsewhere ” – of figures such as Vasco da Gama, Pedro Álvares Cabral, Infante D. Henrique and Luís de Camões, among others.
Jerónimos Monastery . Classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this monument's most fascinating features are its façades, church and cloisters. Built in the Manueline style, the sacred figures, statues of kings and queens and its famous church-hall are impressive, with its clever architectural work that makes its transept vault seem to hover in mid-air, supported by no pillars.
Alfama . Considered one of the oldest neighborhoods in Europe, Alfama is located in and symbolizes the heart of the city. The walls of its houses tell stories of times gone by, of battles, victories and defeats, conquests and tragedies, and we can delve even deeper into the city's culture and history in its many fado houses, with music that exalts the best of national poetry and echoes its laments through the streets. Its viewpoints, the São Jorge Castle and the Lisbon Cathedral are also a must-see.
What to visit?
Lisbon Oceanarium . The second largest oceanarium in the Iberian Peninsula, it was named the best in the world by TripAdvisor in 2017. Built as part of Expo 98, it quickly became one of the city's biggest tourist attractions, with around one million visitors annually. The site is made up of 30 aquariums, with over 50 species of marine life from all over the world, in a building that itself appears to float on the waters of the Tagus River.
Praça do Comércio/Terreiro do Paço . One of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Opening to the south by the Tagus estuary, it once served as a reception for those arriving by boat and impressed kings and heads of state who visited the country. In its centre we see the equestrian statue of D. José I and, to the north, we can admire a majestic Triumphal Arch that marks the beginning (or end) of Rua do Ouro.
Chiado . Between Bairro Alto and Baixa Pombalina lies a neighborhood known for its tourist attractions, as well as its history and tradition. Visit the many museums, theaters, bookshops (including Bertrand, the oldest in the world) and restaurants that line its streets and, at night, lose yourself in its artistic liveliness. Take the opportunity to take a photo with the famous statue of Fernando Pessoa, “sitting” on the terrace of the A Brasileira café.
Avillez Neighborhood | Restaurants | Chiado, Lisbon (timeout.pt)
Where to eat?
Bairro do Avillez . A grand space divided into four distinct areas: The Tavern, for snacks, the Páteo, for Portuguese food with a maritime influence, the Beco Cabaré, where the meal is accompanied by a burlesque show, and the Cantina Peruana, with a pretty self-explanatory name. Enjoy the gastronomic world of one of the most respected Portuguese chefs, already awarded two Michelin stars.
Taberna da Rua das Flores . An old-fashioned tavern concept that focuses on regional produce, a good wine list and a homely atmosphere, with a simplicity that is much appreciated by visitors and regular customers.
Where to eat?
Pap'Açôrda. From codfish à lagareiro to goat rice, to the prawn açorda that (partially) gives it its name, this space has been delighting the palates of the Mercado da Ribeira since 2016, the year it moved from Bairro Alto. Take the opportunity to try the unmissable chocolate mousse that is always passed around the room, as is tradition, in a large bowl and distributed individually, from table to table.
Tapisco. Another restaurant by a Michelin-starred chef, Henrique Sá Pessoa, the food here has a Spanish accent and combines ingredients from both sides of the border. The name Tapisco comes from the combination of tapas and snacks, and that is precisely the concept of the restaurant, in addition to a philosophy of sharing. According to the chef himself, “ it is the restaurant where I would like to go to eat ”.
Pap'Acorda Lisbon - Gay Restaurant Guide│misterb&b (misterbandb.com)
Where to eat?
The Cod House . The name doesn’t deceive: here, cod is king. 25 ways to cook – and eat – cod are present on the menu. We can find “ classic recipes such as grilled cod, cooked with all kinds of things, à Brás or à Gomes de Sá; or more daring ones, such as breaded tongues, carpaccio or curry ”
Bella Ciao . For lovers of Italian food. The al dente pasta dishes are accompanied by a décor that always has Italy in mind, and even the television brings the country into the carefully designed setting. We recommend trying the penne all'arrabiata, the paccheri with ragù d'agnello or the unmissable carbonara.
Where to eat?
Boa-Bao . For a trip through Asia without leaving your table, there's nothing like visiting Boa-Bao. Dishes from Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Japan, Korea, China and Vietnam can be enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere that perfectly represents the Asian spirit. For a true sensory journey.
Manteigaria . In Luís de Camões square, on the border between Chiado and Bairro Alto, we find a place focused on continuing the legendary Lisbon pastel de nata , a sweet treat as famous as it is appreciated by those who try it (and certainly repeat).
There's a new custard tart shop in Belém (lisboasecreta.co)
My Story Charming Hotel Augusta | Lisbon | Official Website (mystoryhotels.com)
Where sleep?
In a city as vast and rich as Lisbon, there are plenty of reasons to spend the night (or more than one night) in one of the hotels or hostels suggested, so that you can get to know the capital in all its size and splendor. There is no shortage of reasons or options. Lisbon is also rich in places to enjoy your rest while enjoying the view of some of the most emblematic points of its square.
My Story Hotel Augusta
Hotel Britania
Home Lisbon Hostel
Hotel Convent of Salvador
Lisbon Carmo Hotel
Goodmorning Solo Traveler Hostel
Neya Lisbon Hotel
