Why You Must See Lisbon
Why visit Lisbon? Well, I had a small window to explore before attending work training in Northern Ireland, and Lisbon was the cheapest direct flight available. Typically I try to fit in new countries, but the price was too good to turn down!
It wasn’t the first time in Portugal. While living abroad in 2008, an old friend and myself snuck in a little holiday to Faro just further south in Portugal. I won’t say why, but I really don’t remember much about it. So let’s stick to the best of Lisbon!
If you are pondering a trip to Europe, Lisbon is highly recommended…I can’t stress that enough. Established alongside the Tagus River, my experience in this Portuguese treasure was nothing short of tranquil. The city will charm the wallet straight outta your pocket!
Stroll the randomly plotted cobblestone streets and get lost in the maze of uniquely enchanting neighborhoods. Eat up all the Bacalhau you can find while the Lisbon-originating Fado sound puts your mind at ease. Wise up to the history at any of the museums and attractions beside the river. Soak up the sprawling city views from one of the dazzling lookouts. Oh, and definitely don’t forget to leave time for a day trip to the famous village of Sintra.
Torre de Belém
One of the biggest attractions in Lisbon is at Torre de Belém. Constructed in the 16th Century, it once served as a launching point for the Portuguese explorers. Now the tower is a prideful city icon and major attraction for tourists and photographers.
Walk-Run-Scoot | Waterfront
The Lisboans have developed an attractively accessible waterfront along the Tagus River. You’ll find many locals frequenting the space for exercise. Each day I mixed in a walk-scoot combination to float between the waterfront neighborhoods of Alfama and Belém. The city offers an abundance of electric scooters, including the very popular Lime model.
Getting started is easy. Download the app. Add your credit card. Scoot yourself silly.
Keep in mind as you ride…Exploring the waterfront route will lead you to several attractions, including Praça do Comércio, Museu de Arte Antiga, Cordoaria Nacional, Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology, Torre de Belém, and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos.
Street Art
Why visit Lisbon? More art of course.
The artistic range of the Portuguese is best experienced by spying all the nooks and crannies of the neighborhoods. Keep your eyes open and peripheral vision engaged. Lisbon street art rivals some of the best in the world!
Palacio Nacional da Pena | Sintra
Nestled atop the Sintra Mountains is the fairytale Palacio Nacional da Pena. Brilliantly colored and influenced by Romanticism architecture, a woman could spend hours here backloading their Instagram reel. No filter needed.
As you can see, the design elements inspire awe in any architecture aficionado.
Colorful cloisters. Astonishing azulejos. Ghastly gargoyles.
The panoramic views from the variety of terraces aren’t so bad either.
Azulejos
These stunning ceramic tiles are not hard to find in Lisbon, or anywhere in Portugal for that matter. Most are fixtures of geometrical design, while others are assembled to depict the human lifestyle and important historical figures.
I truly feel the azulejos add an overwhelming “feel-good” sentiment. Their beauty will lift your spirit as you observe them, stuck to the residential facades and storefronts, as well as street signs, fountains, and several architectural gems.
Castelo dos Mouros | Sintra
When you make the 30 minute drive from Lisbon to Sintra, don’t forget about the Moorish Castle. Built by North Africans in the 9th Century as a lookout for invaders, the structure was largely crumbled by the conquest of Christians. Fortunately it was later rebuilt in the 19th Century, once again fit for sweeping views to the Atlantic Ocean.
Pasteis de Natas
Why visit Lisbon? If you still need reasons…I gotta say the Portuguese cuisine has much to offer. If I had to choose just one, it might be these little custard filled pastries. The Pasteis de Natas. They aren’t hard to find. Indulge 5 or 6, why not? You’re on vacation.
Bairro Alto
One of the popular neighborhoods to sleep is Bairro Alto. Its central location is convenient for visitors planning to explore the city by foot. Speaking of walking, I’d definitely recommend some good shoes as the area is reminiscent of San Francisco with all the hills and valleys.
In Bairro Alto it isn’t hard to stay busy. The neighborhood is full of unique bars, cafes, and restaurants. Considered to be a top nightlife destination, expect most evenings and weekends to be noisy. Can’t sleep? Join the party and allow the talents of a Fado musician to suppress that jetlag drowsiness.
Padrão dos Descobrimentos
A Lisbon waterfront stroll is incomplete if you don’t see the massive monument erected to salute the brave Portuguese explorers. For a number of reasons, my experience at the Padrão dos Descobrimentos was one of the most memorable.
No doubt, the intricate stone carvings are marvelous. Surrounding the monument is mesmerizing mosaic pavement design known as Calçada Portuguesa. It reminded me of the summer I wandered Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro.
A healthy mix of those artistic elements complimented by the soothing tunes of a local musician prompted me to enjoy an hour long chill session.
Waves crashed. Guitar strummed. Mind relaxed. Life is good.
Walking Art Tour
Why visit Lisbon? If you don’t appreciate the peace of mind that art brings, Lisbon may not be the place for you. Although the city hasn’t received prominent recognition as one of Europe’s top art destinations, I see art as one the most enriching facets of Lisboan culture.
And I say that without having stepped inside one of Lisbon’s art museums. Not by preference, just a matter of limited time. The cultural appreciation of art is a sentiment I’m drawn towards. Lisbon’s artistic range is vast and provides elements of healing for the spirit. So do yourself a favor and let those endorphins fly.
