Lisbon Travel Guide
Lisbon has made it to the top spot as one of the coolest cities in Europe, so I couldn’t wait to explore and find out the delights this beautiful city has to offer!
EAT
Topo Chiade
No city break would be complete without brunch!
Tucked down a side street, Topo Chiade opens up into a beautiful rooftop bar / restaurant that offers stunning views of the Santa Justa lift and the surrounding areas. Staggered across a few levels, this outdoor restaurant is definitely a must see.
The set brunch menu is the perfect way to get started. Juices, fruits and yoghurts, followed by eggs, breads and pastries. You can easily spend a relaxing morning here soaking up the view over brunch. Make sure you bring your appetite if your opting for the set brunch though, as it’s a lot of food!
If you don’t fancy a brunch, just pop in for a drink; they offer a great selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails.
Find it: Terraços do Carmo, Chiado, 1200-288, Lisbon, Portugal
Time Out Market
A definite must see for any foodie! 24 restaurants, 8 bars, plus shops! This bustling and energetic converted market hall is one of the trendiest hang outs in Lisbon. They offer a huge selection of gourmet foods all cooked fresh – it’s almost impossible to choose what to eat! Once you’ve ordered, be quick to grab a spot. Its super busy, so you’ve got to be on the ball. The atmosphere is just amazing, hectic and bustling with people chatting, eating and drinking wine. A truly fabulous and fun experience!
Find it: Av. 24 de Julho 49, 1200-479, Lisbon, Portugal
Pharmacia
Another super hip restaurant – this time shared with the Pharmacy Museum. The restaurant decor is inspired by an old fashioned 50’s pharmacy. Medicine cabinets hold vials, old books and medicine boxes. Wine bottles sit in ice buckets made from old first aid kits, even the water comes in huge brown glass medicine bottles. Continuing the 50’s theme with old fashioned coloured plates and an eclectic mix of chairs, this restaurant offers a relaxed and kitsch dining experience.
The food is traditional Portuguese favourites in small tapas style plates, so brilliant to share and experience some delicious local foods.
The themed cocktail menu offers a fun selection with names like Ipuprofen, Morphine and Omeprazol to name a few!
The outside bar area is also beautiful if it’s a warm evening.
Find it: Rua Marechal Saldanha, 2, Santa Catarina district, Lisbon, Portugal
MOVE
Explore Alfama
Narrow and steep streets that wind through the heart of Lisbon, you can get lost wandering through this maze, but it’s a must for Lisbon! You can even stop in one of the tiny bars and try a shot of the local Ginja.
Walk, walk, walk!
This city has so much to offer and the best way to see it is on foot. Make sure you check out Bairro Alto; this bustling area is full of cool bars, old fashioned trams and is real melting pot of the city. The energy is just amazing!
Tuk-Tuk tour
If you don’t feel like walking – take a Tuk-Tuk tour. Another super fun way to see the city. They even give you some of the history whilst driving!
CHILL
LX Factory
Located slightly out of the main city, (it won’t cost much in an Uber), it’s well worth the trip. A collection of converted old buildings now housing an eclectic mix of shops, cafes and restaurants. Make sure you leave a few hours to eat and wander around the beautiful mix of original shops, one of my favourited being an impressive book shop! The atmosphere is relaxed and has an alternative feel to it.
Find it: Rodrigues de Faria 103, 1300 – 501, Lisbon, Portugal
Get on a boat
Seeing Lisbon by boat is another stunning experience and also a great way to relax for a few hours. If there is a group of you, I would recommend hiring one, but you can also sign up to a number of tours. We lazily sailed up the estuary whilst taking in some of the waterfront sites, all the while sunning ourselves and listening to music. It was such a fun experience, especially if you’ve had a busy few days exploring!
Sky Bar
If you’re looking for a slightly more luxe experience, make sure you check out Sky Bar for a cocktail at sunset. A little bit more upmarket, but definitely worth it for the beautiful sunset views of the city. The atmosphere is really relaxed and great after a busy day sight-seeing. Aim to get there for around 8/8.30pm in plenty of time for the sunset.
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