Exploring Lisbon: A Weekend Adventure in Portugal
Follow the journey of a traveler exploring the sights and tastes of Lisbon, Portugal, while sharing valuable insights for visitors.
Lisbon greeted us on a Friday for a weekend getaway with temperatures climbing above 26°C (80°F). It was HOT. My nephew, Fletcher, arrived from London where he is studying, and I made my way from Dublin after attending a work conference. Since this was his first visit to Lisbon and I’m passionate about food, our agenda was filled with exciting locations and delectable dishes.
This was my first trip back to Lisbon since 2016, and I must say, the word is out. The city was significantly more crowded than I remembered! Even during shoulder season, the streets were packed. The warm weather surely attracted many travelers, leading to long queues and the necessity for reservations at popular spots. However, if you’re new to the city, this itinerary serves as perfect guidance for first-timers.
Where to Stay
We chose a hotel on Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon’s main boulevard known for its designer shops and upscale hotels. We stayed at Hotel Avani Avenida Liberdade Lisbon, which shares facilities like an outdoor pool and an Anantara spa with the adjacent Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa. This arrangement provided us with a luxurious experience at a great value.
After settling into our comfortable room, we ventured next door for a light snack in the Tivoli lobby before indulging in some rejuvenating massages at the Anantara Spa. Post-treatment, we were both re-energized and ready for the evening.
Our reservations for dinner were at Tivoli’s rooftop restaurant, SEEN. The place was buzzing on a Friday night with a DJ spinning classic ’80s hits, and the outdoor Skybar offered stunning views of Lisbon’s rooftops against the backdrop of the Tagus River. The culinary highlights included octopus carpaccio and high-quality sushi, topped off with the best Moscow Mule I’ve had.
Must-See Landmarks
As this was Fletcher’s introductory experience in Lisbon, we focused on top tourist attractions. He had compiled a list of must-see sites such as the Torre de Belém, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, and Castelo de São Jorge.
To optimize our visit, we purchased two 24-hour Lisboa Cards for €27 each. This card grants access to various attractions, along with public transport for seamless travel across the city. It proved invaluable, as we bypassed extensive lines at most locations, except for a long wait at the monastery. Accessing the adjacent church, Igreja de Santa Maria de Belém, was effortless and awe-inspiring, particularly with sunlight streaming through the stained glass.
Culinary Delights
The highlight of our culinary journey was undoubtedly the superb steak at Restaurante Brilhante. Perfectly textured and flavorful, it was accompanied by a delicious chocolate soufflé that required advanced ordering due to its preparation time. Another must-visit is the charming chain, Dear Breakfast, famous for its laid-back vibe and delicious breakfast offerings, including breakfast tacos.
Unique Experiences
One quirky spot we ventured into was Pavilhão Chinês, known for its eccentric decor filled with figurines and kitschy charm. While the cocktails may not be the best in town, the ambiance is unforgettable and perfect for a post-dinner drink.
Exploring Old Lisbon
My favorite activity was a 90-minute Old Lisbon ride in an electric tuk-tuk. Our guide provided fascinating insights about Lisbon’s history, particularly the persistent influence of the 1755 earthquake. He navigated the narrow streets with finesse, making stops for us to appreciate the remarkable tile work along the way.
To cap off our busy days, I indulged in relaxation by the pool at Tivoli, sipping on Portuguese white wine while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere around the pool area. There’s truly nothing better than unwinding after a day full of exploration.
