Lisbon
Yeah this is the best city in Europ that no one is talking about. It’s got the weather, culture, architecture, food, history, music, views. The list goes on. Lisbon has been finding itself on a bunch of lists for future hot destinations in Europe, but if you ask me, it has a firm spot on the best destinations on earth list, and for 2019, not 2025.
Getting around
This is where Lisbon excels. Not only are there so many options for ways to get around the city, but they’re all so fun and photogenic! Granted, the tek tek’s Are overpriced and the trolley DEFINITELY does not run on schedule, so keep that in mind. Regardless, Lisbon has all the options you would need for transportation. Road rage taxi drivers, Ubers, quick and efficient subway system, iconic trolleys to help with the hilly terrain, and tek tek’s to provide some entertainment and education along the way. Also, be sure to get the unlimited pass from a subway station to get the most bang for your buck (all modes of transportation are included in this one ticket for 24 hours, and it’s only like six euros or something)
Where to go when you want to dip away from the city life for a second and live like a king: Sintra
Beautifully colored and breathtakingly situated, this iconic complex is a must visit when you go to Lisbon. It’s a two hour drive from the city, and I would recommend taking a tour to see the place. Our guide was able to get us past the line while feeding us interesting history and facts along the way. Plus, most tours drive down to the seaside town of Cascais afterwards to make for a nice and complete day (unfortunately, our day was cold and wet, so the beach town was more of a McDonalds hideaway location for a bit). Also, tour guides hate it for parking reasons, but BE SURE to tell them to see this well on the right because it may be more breathtaking than the castle.
Where to see beautiful architecture and incredible art, science and technology: MAAT
One of the more iconic buildings in Lisbon, the MAAT museum is an architectural gem that demands attention on the shores of the river mouth. You can go in the building and see some of the most unique art exhibitions in the world. And don’t forget to walk on top of the building-it’s a pretty dope experience.
Where to be in the center of it all: Praca do Comercio and Baixa
The largest square in Lisbon, Praca do Comercio is the hub of the city, where you can find all types of transportation, restaurants, and great views. The adjacent Baixa district was one of our favorite parts of the city, as it was the only area that was flat and easily facilitated pedestrian circulation. Also, don’t miss out on going to the Elevador de Santa Justa. It’s pretty weird but dope at the same time.
Where to roll down from one end of the city to the other: Avenue de Liberdade
Take the subway to the Parque exit, get on out, walk to the top of the Parque Eduardo VII, snap some pics with the flag and the views, then walk down the Champs Elysee of Lisbon all the way to the city center. It’s a beautiful walk, and if you follow my orders, its all downhill and shaded so its pleasant as well. Plus, if you go when we did (beginning of November), you might just stumble upon a massive parade.
Where to willingly frustrate yourself to have the best food in the city: Timeout Market
A place that brings together the best food of the city. That’s what this market is, and it absolutely succeeds in this task. The place is crowded as hell and it’s incredibly annoying to find a table, but once you do and you get your food, life can’t get much better. Plus, the area around this market is developing nicely, with outdoor restaurants and lounges to compliment.
Where to have drinks with a view: Hotel Mundial Rooftop
Grab a blanket (if you’re there in the winter), and have a drink with a view. There aren’t many better places in the city to have a drink with a view, just deal with the sort of weird route to get through the hotel to arrive at this photographer’s hotspot.
Where to have a view of a place with drinks with a view: Anywhere in Alfama, but especially the Portas do Sol
The area above the Portas do Sol is sort of the city center of the beautiful Alfama district. It’s a bustling center of pedestrians, cars, trolleys, bikes, strollers, wheelchairs and more. The place is fantastic, and getting lost in the alleyways and hidden staircases is a joy. Take a two minute walk into the dense urban fabric and you’ll find yourself in an old Portuguese woman’s backyard. The place is a fun time, so don’t miss out. And don’t forget to snap that pick of the view over the Portas do Sol bar (which I did not go to but heard is great).
Where to get a trendy insta pic: Nova de Carvalho
A pink street behind a great food market. Not much more to write about here!
Where to go when you want steak and wine: Beef and Wine Lisboa
These guys know what the hell they’re talking about. The sommeliers are pros, and the waiters know their meat better than almost any waiter I’ve ever had (only Bazaar Meat in Las Vegas puts up stiff competition). The food is fantastic and the setting, in a old wine vault, is up to par with the cuisine and adds to the ambiance. If you’re craving some non-vegan food, go here.
Where to wait in line to see where the city started: Castle of Sao Jorge
It’s your basic castle, but beautiful nonetheless. The views are stunning, as is the architecture. It’s fun just roaming the grounds here, climbing on top of old buildings (pretty sure it was allowed), feeding the peacocks, having a drink of coffee on carved ancient booths. The place is awesome, but get there EARLY if you want to avoid the crowds.
Where to go to be trendy: LX Factory
Located under the Golden Gate Bridge of Lisbon, this area of factories-turned-restaurants-shops-and-bars is a classic 21st century example of urban architecture. The boutique businesses that have set up shop here have established a unique language and the whole area will have you intrigued by the most mundane of things. Check the area out, is what I’m saying here.
Getting in and out
So here’s the deal here. Sounds boujee, but bear with me. Flying first class, no matter how close the destination is, makes a massive difference at this airport. You can skip all the lines, there is a designated security area, and plenty of lounge options. It’s worth it. Lisbon airport is pretty small, but it can get crazy crowded, so trust me here.