Insider Guide to Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is truly one of our favorite places to travel to and it’s especially friendly to solo travelers. The country isn’t large so it’s easy to get around and see a ton. It’s also only a 6 1/ 2 hour flight from NYC, count us in! Here’s our take on the ultimate Portugal trip itinerary. Stroll through the oldest districts, taking in the beautiful architecture, pastel hued buildings and iconic tile work. Here are the places to stay, things to do and places to eat.

Where to Stay

Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina

This hotel is truly what dreams are made of. A member of Small Luxury Hotels, you are sure to feel like royalty the moment you walk into this palace, greeted by the warmest smiles from the staff. The property is located in the vibrant and centrally located Chiado district and dates back to the year 1750, offering so many incredible stories and historical bits presented by staff if you’re keen on learning! It features SUBA, a fine dining award-winning restaurant, a rooftop bar and a swimming pool offering some of the most gorgeous panoramic views of the river and city. This will stay in my mind as one of the most memorable hotel stays I’ve ever experienced and it will surely have the same effect on you!   

H10 Duque de Loulé

If you’re looking for a more affordable luxury alternative, look no further than H10 Duque de Loulé. The four star boutique hotel has tons of charm while still offering all of the modern amenities and features with traditional Portuguese décor with a modern and elegant touch! It’s centrally located and the staff made my stay so comfortable. I spent every night watching the sunset from their beautiful rooftop.

Other places to stay:

• Dear Lisbon – Bordalo House
• Torel Palace Lisbon
• The Lisboans
• Casa Balthazar
• Memmo Alfama Hotel

Things to Do

• Belem Tower Cross the wood gangway and walk inside, not so much to see the plain interior but to climb the steps for a bird’s eye view of the river and city.
• Jeronimos Monastery a masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The six nave columns and latticework ceiling are awe-inspiring. Don’t miss the Gothic and Renaissance style double cloister.
• Alfama District Lisbon’s old quarter with its narrow and hilly labyrinthine streets brimming with shops and cafes. Don’t forget to admire the decorative azulejo tiles that adorn the old world buildings.
• Graca district Home to the most stunning panoramas of the city, especially miradouro and street art. It is in this district where you’ll discover some of the best street foods and pastries. Foods not to miss: – pastel de nata: *warning these are highly addictive* – prego: a garlic steak sandwich – port wine
• Estoril: Take a 45 min train ride to the seaside beach town of Estoril
• Castelo de S. Jorge: Moorish historic architecture and a gorgeous sunset spot
• Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: There are many miradouros (viewpoints) in Lisbon but this one is a hidden gem in Lisbon’s “Old Town” and is usually less crowdeed
• Miradouro das Portas do Sol: My favorite miradouro in the city to photograph
• Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara: Located in the Principe Real area which is my favorite area
• Village Underground Lisboa: A fun creative, arts and cultural hub
• Casa do Alentejo: Stunning Moorish architecture that almost feels like a Moroccan Riad. It’s also a restarurnt but you can walk in for free to tour it
• Estacao Gare do Oriente: Awesome modern, train station architecture to photograph
• LX Factory: A former fabric plant est 1846 is now home to more than 200 businesses ranging from cafés, restaurants, design houses, show-rooms, shops, offices, commercial spaces and bookshops.

Where to Eat and Drink

• Sophia Natural Italian: beautiful interior and good Italian dishes
• Dallas Burger: One of the best burgers I’ve had in a long time, set in a hip diner space
• O Boteco: Another stunning interior, great for drinks
• JNcQUOI Asia: Another beautiful interior that’s great for drinks and apps
• SEEN by Olivier Lisboa: This place is truly a vibe with great views of the city and great sushi
• Coyo Taco: delicious tacos and margs
• Seagull Method Cafe: Cute brunch spot
• Chérie Paloma: Great coffee, lovely brunch spot
• Bairro do Avillez: Lovely space and great for a traditional Portuguese dinner
• BouBou’s: Delicious food and great for small plates
• Early Birds Lisbon: Cozy brunch spot
• Restaurante Infame: Great for dinner
• Procópio Bar: Excellent cocktail bar since 1972
• Foxtrot: Delicious cocktails and the kitchen is open until 3am!
• 1300 Taberna: Fun and interesting experience in what feels like a hip factory
• Cafe Janis: A hip cafe
• Fábrica da Nata: for the best Pastel de Nata
• Hello Kristof: Hip coffee shop
• Manifest: A gorgeous space for brunch or coffee
• Milkees: The best chocoalte chip cookies in town
• Timeout Market: Touristy but a fun experience for lunch

 

 Time Out Market Lisbon

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