Lisbon. Ah, where do I even begin? Whether I’ve visited solo, with my husband for a romantic escape, or with friends for a fun getaway, this city has never let me down. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel welcome the minute you arrive, like it’s wrapping you up in a warm hug. Perched on its famous seven hills, Lisbon is a city where life is meant to be enjoyed. You feel it in every street, every view, and every bite of food. And no matter how many times I go back, there’s always something magical to discover.
The Seven Hills and the Soul of Fado
Lisbon’s seven hills offer some of the best views you’ll ever see. But they also set the stage for the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, like Alfama, where history is around every corner. Alfama is the birthplace of Fado, that hauntingly beautiful music that’s so full of longing and nostalgia. You can still find Fado houses here, where singers pour their souls into each note, leaving you with goosebumps.
But nowadays, Fado has spread to other parts of the city, too. If you head to Bairro Alto at night, you’ll find cozy restaurants and bars where Fado singers captivate the crowd just as powerfully. Bairro Alto has a lively, bohemian energy, but when the Fado begins, the whole place seems to hush, and you can feel that same deep, emotional connection that defines Lisbon’s spirit. It’s like the city itself is singing to you, inviting you to be part of its story.
Bacalhau, Pastéis de Belém, and Lisbon’s Foodie Heaven
If you’re a foodie like me, Lisbon will spoil you with its incredible flavors. Everywhere you go, you’ll find bacalhau—salted codfish, the true star of Portuguese cuisine. There are 365 different ways to cook it, one for each day of the year! But my favorite has to be Bacalhau com Natas. It’s a creamy, baked dish with layers of salted cod and potatoes that’s so comforting, you’ll want to savor every bite. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re getting a big culinary hug.
Now, no trip to Lisbon is complete without indulging in the famous Pastéis de Belém. These little custard tarts are legendary for a reason. I queued up for 45 minutes outside the original bakery, and when I finally got my hands on one, the warm, flaky crust and creamy custard were absolutely worth the wait. The trick is to eat them fresh, preferably with a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar.
But Lisbon’s sweet treats don’t stop there. You also have to try Pão de Deus, which translates to “Bread of God”—and let me tell you, it lives up to its name! It’s a soft, sweet bun topped with coconut, and here’s a typical Lisbon twist: locals love to slice it open and fill it with ham. Oh yes, indeed! The salty ham paired with the sweet, coconut-topped bun is surprisingly delicious, a perfect mix of savory and sweet. It’s the kind of snack that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. You’ll find yourself wondering why you’ve never had it this way before!
A Toast to Portuguese Wine
Speaking of food and drink, let me tell you about a New Year’s Eve dinner we had that I’ll never forget. We were sitting in this cozy little restaurant, enjoying the festive atmosphere, when we ordered a bottle of wine that completely blew us away. It was so good that we made it our mission the next day to find the bodega where it came from. We loved it so much, we ended up buying a whole case to take home with us!
Portugal, in general, produces incredible wines. Of course, everyone knows about Port, but regions like Ribeira do Douro are producing some real gems. The wine is affordable, delicious, and perfectly complements the local cuisine. There’s something about sitting down with a good meal, sharing a bottle of wine, and just soaking up the good life that Lisbon—and Portugal as a whole—does so well.
My Favorite Places in Lisbon
Now, when it comes to favorite spots in Lisbon, it’s hard to choose just one, but Cais do Sodré has a special place in my heart. It’s perfect for people-watching, with its vibrant waterfront, markets, and restaurants. There’s just something so laid-back about this area that makes you want to sit down, have a coffee, and watch the world go by.
The Castle of São Jorge is another must-see. The views from up there are out of this world! It’s like the entire city is laid out at your feet. There’s a small ice cream parlor inside the castle that only offers four flavors, but I swear, they’re the most delicious scoops I’ve ever had.
Then there’s Belém, which is an absolute must-visit. Start with a peaceful walk along the river, admiring the impressive Belém Tower. As you continue, you’ll come across the stunning Discoveries Monument. Don’t miss the huge map on the ground in front of it—find your country and stand on it! It’s a fun little moment that connects you to Lisbon’s history of exploration. From here, you’ll get some of the best views of the river and the April 25th Bridge in the distance. And of course, no visit to Belém is complete without spending some time at the Jeronimos Monastery. The intricate architecture is mesmerizing, and it’s easy to spend hours wandering through its cloisters. After all that, you’ll have definitely earned a Pastéis de Belém. You won’t regret it!
If you want a true taste of Lisbon’s charm, hop on Tram 28. This rickety old tram clatters through the city’s most beautiful neighborhoods. It’s a bit of a bumpy ride, but you get to see so much of Lisbon, and it’s such a quintessential experience. Afterward, head over to Baixa-Chiado and take the Santa Justa Lift for more fantastic views. Here’s a tip: if you go through a nearby shop, you can access the lift for free, and there’s a cute little bar up there where you can relax with a drink.
Another gem is Bairro Alto. If you like a lively atmosphere, this is the place to be. Quirky bars, little restaurants, music everywhere—it’s a neighborhood that really comes alive at night. You can wander from one spot to the next, and it’s always buzzing with energy.
New Year’s in Praça do Comércio and the LX Factory Vibe
One year, I was lucky enough to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Praça do Comércio, and wow, what an experience! The square was packed with people, all celebrating together, and the fireworks lighting up the river were breathtaking. The energy in the air was just incredible. It felt like one big, joyful party with thousands of strangers who suddenly felt like friends.
And if you’re into artsy, creative spaces, you have to visit LX Factory. It’s this old industrial complex turned into a vibrant hub of art, culture, and food. There’s a fantastic bookstore, Ler Devagar, that’s full of charm, with towering shelves and quirky decorations. Just across the street, I found a café that served the best chocolate cake I’ve ever tasted. Rich, decadent, and so good I can still taste it when I think about it!
As always, A City that Never Disappoints
No matter how I’ve experienced Lisbon—whether on my own, with my partner, or with friends—it’s a city that always leaves me with a smile. From the winding streets of Alfama to the sweeping views from São Jorge Castle, Lisbon is full of life, warmth, and that unmistakable magic that makes you want to come back again and again.
If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon or just dreaming of one, check out more tips and travel stories at www.holimade.com
