We recently visited Lisbon and wanted to share our top finds and must sees in Portugal’s capital as part of our aer Travel Guide. We hope you enjoy!
Food
Time Out Food Market
If you don’t eat anywhere else on your trip, be sure to check out this heavenly market. With food stands collated together under the Time Out brand, there is so much choice. You simply must try the homemade ice cream – the basil flavour is divine as well as the chocolate pavlova! There are yummy burgers, an array of seafood choices, specials such as pork belly with clams – unusual but delicious, as well as gorgeous flowers and a brilliant selection of fruit and veg or spices and other condiments to take home!
Clube de Journalistas
There are numerous restaurant choices but one of our favourites was Clube de Journalistas situated in it’s own private garden, the place was so enchanting. Upon arrival we were welcomed with a glass of bubbles and lead to our table outside in the garden amongst the candle lit courtyard. The menu was delicious and it is well worth a visit; it is hidden away you would not normally know it was there! We left with gifts including complimentary tote bags and book marks which was a lovely surprise!
Pharmacia
Another one to try is Restaurante Pharmacia whereby all the decor and interiors are based on a pharmacy, even the bill is presented in a test tube! There is an eclectic menu choice or you can go for the surprise tasting menu option if you’re struggling to choose, just what the doctor ordered!
Art
Berardo Museum
Home to one of the world’s most acclaimed modern art collections covering a range of contemporary movements from Surrealism to Abstract Expressionism, expect to see works by Dali, Pollock, Picasso and Warhol. Founded by Portuguese mogul, Joe Berardo to house his impressive collection, the museum opened in June 2007.
With free entry there are several floors portraying paintings, photography, sculpture and installations.
Belem Cultural Centre
The city’s largest auditorium, art complex and host to international exhibitions this centre is impressive to wonder around if only to marvel at the architecture. Take some time out at the restaurant cafe on the first floor overlooking the river and with surrounding gardens. There are often pop up cultural events and music such as live jazz to listen to in this area. Everyone sits on the grass and enjoys the peaceful atmosphere.
Sintra
This magical town is a must-see on your trip to Lisbon. Just 20 minutes in an Uber from Lisbon, Sintra is described as an adult’s fairytale with real life castles, turrets and stunning views. The town itself has a wonderful charm with pretty shops, cafes and restaurants to wonder through.
Visit Saudade cafe to enjoy authentic Portuguese food and relaxing atmosphere. If you go for breakfast you will be treated to the most delicious warm homemade bread with melted butter, freshly pressed orange juice, granola and natural yogurt, cappucinos and in case you’re still hungry Portugese tarts!
Pena Palace
Once you have explored the town head on upwards to discover the Romanticist Pena Palace on top of the Sintra mountains. To reach this national monument you can take a touk touk, taxi, bus or if you’re feeling energetic it’s an hour walk up the hillside, but believe us the trek will be well worth it!
You are welcomed into the grounds of Pena with tree lined pathways where you can stroll around the magnificent gardens encountering lakes with black swans and duck houses, a meditation garden and smaller tiled temples. The stunning palace is like something you would see in a film, with it’s intricate tiles, incredible views, brightly coloured walls and unique carvings – we even saw a crocodile head protruding from one of the walls!
Beach
The Praia do Carcavelos is the most popular beach of Lisbon and is packed during the summer months.
Carcavelos is situated halfway between Lisbon and Cascais and is served by the Cascais railway so is easily accessible from Lisbon and the surrounding areas. The waves are good enough to surf or body-board or why not give that a go whilst you’re there!
Markets
There are lots of markets to discover selling homemade soaps, sardines in the most beautiful packaging, pottery, vintage clothes, ceramics, books, handmade jewellery and vinyl and old school CDs. Several to mention include the Feira da Ladra market translating to ‘thieves fair’, the oldest flea market in Lisbon specialising in antiques, and the LX Factory held on a Sunday along the main street every week, more popular with the younger generation of Lisbon it’s great for people watching!
Nightlife
If you’ve visited London’s Pergola rooftop bar, then we have found Lisbon’s equivalent – Park Bar. Situated on top of a rooftop carpark this quirky on-trend cocktail bar is perfect for a quick drink before dinner, be sure to catch the sun set and amazing city views. A place popular amongst both locals stopping by for a drink after work and tourists sampling the delicious cocktails there is a relaxed ambience and chilled out vibe.
If you’re up for a late night, Urban Beach is your one stop party destination! Step into this Ibiza style club with incredible lighting, special effects and sound system with outside pool area. However you may need a power nap- the club doesn’t get going until about 3am!
Everywhere you look in this city there is a picutre postcard moment, from the colourful buildings, trams and tiles around every corner! Whether it’s a weekend break or something more, Lisbon has so much to offer you will be spoilt for choice! If you visit be sure to let us know if you went to any of the above or share with us your top tips for where to go in the city, we’d love to hear them!
