If you’re planning a trip to Europe and seeking a destination that perfectly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, look no further than the charming city of Lisbon in Portugal. Known for its stunning architecture, mouthwatering cuisine, and lively atmosphere, Lisbon offers something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the must-see attractions and activities that will make your trip to Lisbon genuinely unforgettable.
Explore the Historic Neighborhoods
Lisbon is a city filled with historic charm, and wandering through its neighborhoods is like taking a journey back in time. Start your adventure in the picturesque Alfama district, the oldest area in the city, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Don’t forget to visit the iconic São Jorge Castle, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Next, head to Baixa, the downtown area of Lisbon, to marvel at its impressive squares, grand boulevards, and neoclassical buildings. Here, you can visit the stunning Rossio Square and the triumphant Arco da Rua Augusta. Be sure to ride on Lisbon’s famous yellow trams to experience the city’s vibrant energy.
Soak Up the Sun at Beautiful Beaches
Lisbon isn’t just about history and culture – it also has stunning beaches that are perfect for unwinding. Drive or take a short train ride to Cascais, a charming coastal town located just 30 minutes from Lisbon. Its golden sandy beaches, such as Praia do Guincho and Praia da Conceição, are popular among locals and tourists alike. Take a dip in the refreshing Atlantic waters or simply relax and soak up the sun. We took a train to Cascais and enjoyed a day at the beach with the girls, strolled around their town, and had a wonderful dinner before taking the train back home!
For those seeking a wilder, more rugged experience, head to the nearby town of Sintra. Praia das Maçãs and Praia Grande are two beautiful beaches nestled in the midst of towering cliffs. Spend a day here and enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the Portuguese coast.
Indulge in Delicious Portuguese Cuisine
No trip to Lisbon would be complete without savoring its rich and flavorful cuisine. Make sure to try the iconic Pastel de Nata, a creamy custard tart with a flaky pastry crust that originated in the city. You can find these delectable treats at Pastéis de Belém, a bakery that has been around since 1837 or if you’re a vegan (which we were when we were there), try Chiado for the vegan option.
The Green Affair is another great vegan option that we loved and Merendinha Bar was a good spot for smoothies, however, when we went they didn’t have a non-dairy option so we just had them make us a fruit smoothie.
Santini’s ice cream was practically on every corner and they had great dairy-free options, Carmo Rooftop had the best views (there’s a secret elevator in the leather goods store across the street) and they also have a sister restaurant in the city with a dining area in the square which was great for people watching as well.
Scoop n’ Dough was by far our favorite ice cream spot and they’ll make you an ice cream sandwich on a brioche donut that is out of this world.
Lisbon is a city that captivates all who visit with its beautiful architecture, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re exploring its historic neighborhoods, enjoying the sun-drenched beaches, indulging in mouthwatering cuisine, or immersing yourself in soulful music, Lisbon offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler and we can’t wait to go back.
