Travel around Lisbon with Bobby
Day 1Stepping Into Lisbon’s Past
Arriving in Lisbon, I could immediately feel the city’s unique energy—a combination of old-world charm and modern flair. I checked into my hotel, a cozy spot in the Baixa district, which was perfectly located for exploring the city on foot. After dropping off my bags, I wasted no time and headed straight to the Alfama neighborhood, the oldest part of the city. Wandering through its narrow, winding streets felt like stepping back in time. The faded pastel-colored houses with their iron balconies were so picturesque. I even stumbled upon a small fado café, where the melancholic tunes of traditional Portuguese music echoed through the streets—an impromptu but unforgettable start to my trip!
From Alfama, I made my way to the iconic São Jorge Castle. Perched on a hill, the views over the city and the Tagus River were breathtaking. It was the perfect way to get my bearings of Lisbon’s layout. For dinner, I went to a nearby restaurant that served bacalhau à brás, a classic Portuguese dish made with salted cod, potatoes, and eggs. I had my first taste of Lisbon’s rich culinary culture, and it certainly didn’t disappoint!
If you’re a fan of history and culture, start your journey in Alfama. It’s the heart and soul of Lisbon, and you can easily spend hours wandering the narrow alleys, soaking in the atmosphere.
Day 2Discovering Lisbon’s Icons
The second day was all about hitting the major icons of Lisbon, so I started with a tram ride—Tram 28, to be exact. This vintage tram is a moving time capsule, and it took me through some of Lisbon’s most famous districts, including Graça, Baixa, and Chiado. The rattling ride was bumpy, but it felt like a must-do for any Lisbon visitor.
My first stop was Belém, where history and grandeur come together. I visited the Jerónimos Monastery, a stunning example of Manueline architecture, and learned about Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Right nearby is the famous Belém Tower, standing proudly on the riverbank. These landmarks are true symbols of Lisbon, and the beauty of their detailed stone carvings left me in awe.
By afternoon, my sweet tooth was calling, so I made my way to the legendary Pastéis de Belém. This is where I tasted the best pastel de nata of my life—a crispy, flaky pastry filled with creamy custard, dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar. Pure heaven! In the evening, I ventured to Bairro Alto, known for its lively nightlife. The cobblestone streets come alive with music, laughter, and the scent of delicious food wafting from every corner. I ended the night in a fado bar, sipping a glass of vinho verde while listening to the soulful sounds of Lisbon.
I couldn’t resist trying the famous pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém. The custard was creamy, and the pastry was crispy and warm. Paired with a cup of coffee, it was the perfect mid-day snack.
Food
My hotel continued to impress with its cozy ambiance and excellent location. The room was small but clean, with all the necessary amenities. After a long day, it was a comfortable place to recharge.
Accomodation
Visiting Belém was a highlight, with the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower offering stunning architecture and historical significance. Walking along the waterfront and soaking in the views was a peaceful break from the bustling city.
Activity
Don’t leave Lisbon without visiting Belém! Between the monastery, the tower, and those incredible pastries, it’s an experience you’ll remember long after your trip ends.
Day 3Views, Markets, and a Sunset Finale
I kicked off my third day with a trip to one of Lisbon’s many miradouros (viewpoints). Miradouro da Senhora do Monte offered sweeping panoramic views of the entire city, including the castle, the river, and the 25 de Abril Bridge in the distance. The early morning light over Lisbon’s red-tiled rooftops was picture-perfect, and it gave me a moment to appreciate the beauty of this city from above.
Next, I headed to Mercado da Ribeira, Lisbon’s famous food market. The Time Out Market inside offers a mix of traditional Portuguese dishes and modern gastronomic creations. I grabbed a bifana, a traditional pork sandwich, and wandered through the stalls. It was a great place to try a little bit of everything Lisbon has to offer in one spot.
For the afternoon, I took a leisurely walk along the waterfront, eventually arriving at the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology). The modern architecture of the building itself was a work of art, and inside, I found fascinating exhibitions that blended art with cutting-edge technology. As the sun began to set, I made my way to Praça do Comércio, one of Lisbon’s grand squares, and sat by the river to watch the golden light reflect off the water. It was a peaceful end to an action-packed day.
I visited the Time Out Market for lunch and sampled a variety of dishes, including a delicious bifana sandwich. The lively atmosphere and diverse food options made it a fantastic culinary stop.
Food
By the third night, my stay at the hotel felt like a home away from home. The friendly staff and cozy bed were always welcoming after long days of exploring.
Accomodation
Starting the day with a visit to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte provided breathtaking views of Lisbon. Later, the MAAT museum offered a mix of art and technology, making it an interesting cultural stop.
Activity
Don’t miss the viewpoints scattered around Lisbon—they offer some of the best perspectives of the city. And if you’re a foodie, the Time Out Market is a must-visit for sampling a variety of local dishes.
Day 4A Day Trip to Sintra – The Fairytale Escape
For my last day in Lisbon, I decided to take a day trip to Sintra, just a 40-minute train ride from the city. Sintra is like stepping into a fairytale with its whimsical palaces and lush, green landscapes. The first stop was the Palácio da Pena, a colorful castle perched on a hilltop that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. The views from up there were absolutely stunning, and wandering through the palace’s rooms gave a glimpse into Portugal’s royal past.
I also visited the Quinta da Regaleira, which felt like a hidden gem with its mystical gardens and the famous Initiation Well, a spiral staircase that descends into the ground like something out of a fantasy novel. Exploring this enchanting place was the perfect way to end my Lisbon adventure.
Returning to Lisbon in the evening, I treated myself to a final dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city. I ordered grilled sardines, a Lisbon classic, and reflected on the incredible four days I’d spent exploring this vibrant city.
On my final day, I enjoyed a delicious meal at a rooftop restaurant, dining on fresh grilled sardines with a stunning view of the city at sunset. It was the perfect farewell dinner to my Lisbon adventure.
Food
Although I didn’t stay in Sintra, my Lisbon hotel made it easy to plan day trips like this. Returning to a familiar, comfortable place after a magical day in Sintra was a great end to the trip.
Accomodation
My day trip to Sintra was like stepping into a fairytale. Visiting the Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira was a magical experience, filled with beautiful landscapes and stunning architecture.
Activity
If you have an extra day, make sure to visit Sintra! The palaces and gardens are nothing short of magical, and it’s a great escape from the bustling city of Lisbon.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Lisbon is a city that offers a well-rounded experience for any traveler. From its rich historical landmarks to its delicious cuisine, there's something for everyone here. Throughout my stay, I found Lisbon to be both culturally vibrant and remarkably accessible, making it an ideal destination for those who want a mix of history, food, and modern city life. Below is my rating of the city based on my personal experience across several important categories.
On my first day, I had a traditional Portuguese dinner at a small local restaurant in Alfama. The bacalhau à brás was perfectly cooked, combining salted cod with crispy potatoes and eggs. The flavors were simple yet rich, capturing the essence of Portuguese cuisine.
Food
I stayed at a charming boutique hotel in the Baixa district, which was not only cozy but also centrally located. The staff was friendly, and the room had a great view of the city. It was a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Lisbon.
Accomodation
Exploring Alfama’s winding streets and visiting São Jorge Castle was the perfect introduction to Lisbon. The historical atmosphere and stunning views from the castle made for a memorable experience.
Activity