The Local's Guide To Visiting Lisbon, Portugal

Nov 27, 2022 By Sean William

Suppose you want to see and do everything that makes Lisbon, Portugal, famous; follow our insider tour! The beautiful restaurants, what to purchase, and where to shop in Lisbon are just a few topics covered in this personalized tour.

In such a culturally diverse city as Lisbon, you will be able to discover interesting things to do on any budget. We have included suggestions for both free and more expensive outings below. Local landmarks and subtleties that are frequently overlooked have also been brought to your attention.

The Castle Of ST. GEORGE

What a fantastic experience, and what a view! So Jorge Castle is a Moorish fortress in Lisbon's historic Alfama district. Castelo de So Jorge, one of Portugal's most popular attractions, is perched on a hill with sweeping vistas of the city and the Tagus River below.

Beautiful at sunset, this is a must-see for any tourist in Lisbon. You may go sightseeing among the ruins or relax and take in the view of the city. It's also a lovely spot for a group picnic or a relaxing interlude before heading over to your dinner reservation in historic Alfama.

Oceanarium of Lisbon

The Lisbon Oceanarium, technically not an aquarium but rather an oceanarium, is the largest in Europe. You might be wondering, "What exactly is an oceanarium?" an oceanarium is a gigantic aquarium that simulates the natural environment of the ocean by housing creatures as diverse and enormous as sharks.

You can spot anything from the largest manta rays in the world too bright "sunflower" starfish and the cutest otter holding hands on Instagram right here. There are many reasons it's considered the best aquarium in the world, but these are some of the most important.

Like New York's Guggenheim Museum, the Oceanário de Lisboa is laid out in a rising spiral. The Oceanarium showcases the many ecosystems in the ocean by displaying them vertically, starting at the deepest part of the sea and working its way up to the surface.

Belem Pasteis

Pasteis de Belem is featured in nearly all itineraries for Lisbon for this same reason. You can't leave Portugal without trying the local Bica and pastel de nata.

As if you were in Paris and bought a baguette or in America and bought a hamburger, this would be a common experience. Pasteis de Belem, located just opposite Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, is the greatest place in Lisbon to grab a bica and an egg tart simultaneously.

Plan A Trip To Mosteiro Dos Jeronimos

Belém, one of Lisbon's most traditionally devout areas, is home to the huge Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, a monastery that dates back 500 years. A must-see for any design enthusiasts, this Lisbon landmark is a stunning example of the Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline style of architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While in town, don't forget to try some Pasteis de Belem!

Exploring The Ancient Streets Of Alfama

The ancient district of Alfama is well-known for its charming narrow alleyways and small, family-owned eateries. So Jorge Castle, the main draw for tourists, is also located there. A public flea market in Alfama is known as Feira da Ladra, although your luck may be bad there.

Santa Clara 1728 is a beautiful and simple inn with six private and intimate rooms created by the renowned local architect Manuel Aires Mateus. Magnificent magenta bougainvillea will bloom in the courtyards and alleyways along the lake in May and June.

Take the ancient Route 28 Tram to Castelo So Jorge, where you can take in breathtaking views of the Tagus River, and then go down into Alfama for a bica and a stroll around the neighborhood's winding alleyways.

Relive The Fado Movement

Fado, Portugal's national genre, is characterized by a melancholy, passionate, and dismal tone. The greatest spot to witness live Fado is Clube de Fado in Alfama; however, you can find these nights at several local clubs and restaurants. Try Mr. Fado, or Tasca do Chico if you can't get a reservation. For international music fans, it's a must-try and genuine adventure.

Supper at Jesus é Gos

The Indian-Portuguese eatery Jesus é Goês is well regarded by both national publications like Food + Wine and locals via review platforms like Yelp. Goan spices and cooking methods are combined with Portuguese meats and other traditional ingredients to create a distinctive fusion meal.

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