Lisbon, Portugal Guide
Portugal was a top travel destination this past year, and Lisbon is one of the many reasons why. Endless decorative tiles, hills, trollies, and miradouros add to the charm of this city.
Keep reading for a curated collection of experiences, restaurant, and hotel recommendations to inspire your next trip to The City of Seven Hills!
Green Street, Lisbon
TAKE IN THE TILE
As you’re exploring the city, make sure to pause and appreciate the colorful tile, mosaic, and ceramic details surrounding you. From palaces to everyday buildings, and even the sidewalks, the artistry dates back to the 16th century and has become a symbol of the city’s identity. Before you leave Lisboa, visit Ceramics na Linha to purchase your own keepsakes.
PERFECT PANORAMAS
Lisbon has no shortage of viewpoints, known as miradouros, for taking a break from trekking up and down its many hills and enjoying spectacular vistas of the city, Tagus River, and famous red suspension bridge.
Miradouro da Graca with its kiosk cafe and Miradouro de Santa Luzia (pictured) with its peaceful garden are not to be missed in the city’s oldest district, Alfama.
In the Bairro Alto neighborhood, known for its nightlife and restaurant scene, Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara is a spacious viewpoint, with a kiosk park right above for getting a snack and listening to live music.
CRUISE THE RIVER
Taking a cruise on the Tagus River is the perfect way to see the Ponte 25 de Abril (25th of April Bridge) up close while getting to experience the city from another perspective. Especially when you’re tired of walking up and down Lisbon’s steep cobblestone streets, booking this tour on a luxury sailing yacht is a welcomed way to relax and sightsee with a drink in hand.
WHERE TO SIP & SNACK
When in Lisbon, make sure to try their regional wines like Vinho Verde, tart-sweet Ginjinha liquor, and an ice cold Caipirão cocktail. For a drink with a view, check out one of Lisbon’s many rooftop bars!
Holy Wine (pictured) is a tiny, spunky wine bar with a tasty selection or natural wines.
Nova Wine Bar specializes in pairing wine and tapas in the Baixa neighborhood.
Cafe da Garagem is an indoor cafe with floor to ceiling windows and gorgeous city views.
Seen Sky Bar is a chic rooftop open for sunny drinks with views and a DJ to set the vibe at night.
Pavilhão Chinês is an eclectic bar with rooms decorated floor to ceiling like a museum.
WHERE TO DINE
Make sure to try local favorites like Arroz Con Pate (duck rice), Bifana (crusty bread & pork sandwich), Sardinhas Assadas (grilled sardines), and Cataplana (seafood stew). Of course, you can’t leave without enjoying a Pastel de Nata!
Sacramento do Chiado (pictured) offers an elegant dining experience in the heart of Lisbon. Indoors has a cozy, cave-like atmosphere, while the terrace features the backdrop of palace ruins.
Lumi Rooftop Bar & Restaurant offers views with a contemporary menu that’s great for sharing family style.
Lost In Restaurant & Bar offers delicious Mediterranean and Asian fusion with panoramic city views whether you’re sitting inside or out.
Restaurante Ponto Final has become IG famous for it’s rustic, waterfront setting where guests enjoy seafood with stunning views of Lisbon and the bridge. Located across the river, you’ll need to take a ferry, drive, or Uber.
WHERE TO REST
The highlight of Lisboa Pessoa Hotel (pictured above) is the spa, featuring a sauna, steam room, and pool where guests can enjoy a variety of treatments to recharge! With friendly staff and a rooftop too, this is a centrally located gem in the Baixa-Chiado area!
Pestana Rua Augusta is conveniently located in Baixa near the river with fun, modern finishings, two convenient restaurants, and some rooms offering close up views of the Arco da Rua Augusta.
LIOZ Lisboa is a beautifully designed hotel by the river with apartments featuring 1-2 rooms, a kitchenette, dining area, and bathroom. Just a short walking distance to the historic Alfama area, this is a great option for those who prefer the space of a vacation rental.
1908 Lisboa Hotel features art nouveau décor in a renovated 1908 award-winning building by architect Adães Bermudes overlooking Intendente Square above Alfama. This 4 star hotel includes an ever evolving art gallery, restaurant, and bar!
CRAVING MORE?
For more curated Portugal recommendations, check out The Wine Edit, featuring the country’s celebrated wine region - The Douro Valley!
Quinta de la Rosa Winery & Hotel, Douro Valley
YOUR TIME IS PRECIOUS, SPEND IT EXPLORING
