Getting Lost in Lisbon
We all know how hot the portuguese capital is at the moment. From its amazing miradouros (viewpoints) and Atlantic-blue azulejo-tiled facades to its incredibly charming boutique hotels and vibrant food scene there are countless reasons to visit this timeless city all year-round.
No matter how many times you have visited Lisbon, there is always more to discover. On this special occasion, we just wanted to explore the deepest and narrowest of alleys, walk along the intricately patterned limestone pavements, and indulge again in the wildly popular Portuguese custard tarts (or pastéis de nata).
Come on and follow us through Lisbons best!
With so many famous hotels and fabulous airbnbs to choose from, it´s sometimes difficult to know where to start planning your next adventure.
We decided to base ourselves in a quiet corner of the Chiado neighborhood for a few days. Conveniently located within walking distance of Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo (the most photographed street in Lisbon), our room at Boutique Chiado Suites was amazingly cute and cosy.
Whenever we wanted to have a truly lavish and lazy morning, we prepared our own breakfast and had it in the comfort of our room.
One day, we visited one of the most instagrammable cafes in the city, Amélia Lisboa Café. I ended up completely obsessed with the amazing deco and their yummy moist and fluffy pancakes. We savored every last bite!
Alfama
Located between the Sao Jorge castle and the Tagus, Lisbon’s fado-loving Alfama district lures with a tranquil labyrinth of ancient streets and delightful tiny squares.
Although blue and white are the star colors, yellow, green, and other lovely hues can also surprise you at every turn. The colorful ceramic tiles that embellish the city became the ideal backdrop for pics!
Each time we stopped to catch our breath, there was another impressive panorama to admire. I remember sitting on a peaceful terrace with heavenly views of the Tagus river and the Alfama quarter´s scenic jumble of red roofs as melancholic notes of Fado wafted out from the small bars.
This mournful music embodies the Portuguese term known as saudade which is melancholic yearning for something in the past.
Bairro Alto
We couldn´t leave Lisbon without visiting one of the most beautiful streets in the world: Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo. The vintage yellow tram has been going up and down the hill since 1892.
The National Tile Museum
Visiting the Museu Nacional do Azulejo was, without a doubt, one of the highlights of our trip. Housed in the former convent of Madre de Deus, this museum is a fascinating immersion into Portugal’s revered handicraft.
Decorated in full Portuguese baroque splendor, the Madre de Deus church truly left us in awe!
Livraria Ler Devagar
We have a love affair with book stores. A good book along with a creamy coffee is all we need to feel like we have escaped the hustle and bustle.
With fabulous floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with all type of books, a flying bike and magical atmosphere, Ler Devagar (translated in English as “to read slowly”) is certainly a literary feast for the senses.
Located in a former printing warehouse called LX Factory, this fantasy haven has been named one of the 10 most beautiful bookstores in the world!
Pink Street
For an after dinner drink, we headed to the Pink Street in Cais do Sodré. Set in a former brothel in the red light district, the funky Pensão Amor (Hostel of Love) truly captivated us!
With vintage posters of burlesque dancers, chandeliers, velvety tufted chairs and a extensive cocktail menu, this lively cocktail bar has become the gathering place for Lisbon´s artists, musicians, and intellectuals.
A Day trip to Sintra
One day, we took an Uber and went to Sintra, a fairytale land of castles and palaces. Just 40 minutes from Lisbon, this very pretty town is where royals used to spend their summers.
This royal playground enchanted us with its amazing scenery, eclectic architecture and incredible tilework.
Monserrate Palace
Quinta de Regaleira
Palacio da Pena
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