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Lisbon, Portugal
The Tower is historic architecture and a must see in Lisbon, Portugal
AUTHOR: ARTSY CHOW ROAMER
Bringing you just a peek into destinations that should be on your bucket list. Not an in depth guide, just some luscious pics, tips and hacks to highlight why I love this place and you might too!
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Lisbon is mainland Europe’s westernmost capital city lying on the Atlantic Ocean and the River Tagus. This is a city whose journey has forever been tied to the sea and to port. With a metropolitan population of around 2.9 million, it is the tenth most populated urban area in the European Union.
It is recognized as an alpha-level global city because of its importance in finance, commerce, media, entertainment, arts, international trade, education and tourism. It is one of the major economic centers with a growing financial sector and one of the largest container ports on Europe’s Atlantic coast.
Most of the multinational corporations are headquartered in Lisbon and it is considered the political center of the country with the seat of government and head of state being in residence there as well.
Landmarks include several UNESCO World Heritage sites, The National Museum of Ancient Art, the Gulbenkian Museum, the famous Belem Tower and the Teatro Nacional de Sao Carlos.
Lisbon is the second oldest capital city after Athens and is known for its recognizable architecture located on eight (not seven) hills. Boasting a whole host of things to do, places to see and great food to eat, this charming city is considered a favorite among expats to relocate right now for its busy airport, rapid rail system and low cost of living. Are you ready for a quick Snap Shot?
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A detailed map of Lisbon to give you the general layout…
Heavy tourism has contributed to the wealth and growth of the city. It is one of the favorite destinations in Europe because of its historic and cultural heritage, good transportation connections and infrastructure.
The city is crossed by historical boulevards and monuments along main thoroughfares like the Avenues of Liberty and the Republic. Both comprise pedestrian walk-ways with beautiful gardens and historical monuments of important figures located in the roundabouts made with traditional Portuguese pavements.
While Lisbon does not have all the beautiful examples of architecture like other European cities because of the earthquake and subsequent fire of 1755 there are still some lovely examples of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque constructions.
The monument and sanctuary to Christ the King stands on the southern bank of the Tagus River, in Almada. With open arms, overlooking the whole city, it resembles the Corcovado monument in Rio, and was built after WWII, as a memorial of thanksgiving for Portugal's “being spared the horrors and destruction of the war”.
When
Best time to visit Lisbon in general is between March and May
Lisbon is categorized as a Mediterranean climate with mild rainy winters and warm to hot dry summers. This makes March through April the best months to visit in general but September to October can be nice as well. Among top international cities to live Lisbon consistently ranks with the warmest winters.
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Lisbon used to be known as “the city of spies”. Named so because during WWII it was said that dictator, Antonio Salazar, was trying to play both sides between the Nazi and the Allies in to protect the country from a backlash.
Trying to maintain their neutral status, the secret police kept close watch on spies, war refugees and prominent international figures exiled from their own countries while they mingled freely with the locals.
The resulting espionage is said to have inspired the stories of writer Ian Fleming, stationed there as a British Intelligence Naval Officer, as he later penned the adventures of super spy James Bond. The famous series of novels and short stories began with Casino Royale but our first introduction came with the film Dr. No starring Sean Connery. Enjoy the video trailer below.
Lisbon during WWII was said to be Ian Fleming’s inspiration for James Bond Photo: Getty Images
Our first introduction to the super spy James Bond in Dr. No
See
A view of the city of Lisbon in the neighborhood of Alfama…
The first thing you are going to want to do is catch some great pics of the city’s famous red roof architecture from the winding narrow streets of the Alfama neighborhood. One of the oldest in Lisbon, it was considered where the poorest lived in the past and is being revived with the renovation of older homes and the picturesque bars and restaurants sporting the well-known melancholy music known as Fado.
The neighborhood is eligible for nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the beautiful views of Sao Jorge Castle with its Moorish history and architecture. It was a royal residence until the 16th century. Walk the walled gardens and take some of the most scenic pics you will find around Lisbon.
Welcome to Lisbon; a city with a beautiful history and narrative…
The video above will give you a good idea of how a visit might look and feel along with some of the best spots to get your shots. Use the map above to orient yourself and take it slow. There is no rush to see every place the first day.
During the spring season these areas can be crowded making the cooler fall months a better choice if you want to avoid the crowds. Don’t forget your comfy shoes as the steep hilly terrain can be a challenge to most but take advantage of the trams and other modes of transportation which are great around the city.
The Pombaline Baixa or Lower Town neighborhood is eligible for UNESCO designation and is fun for a good walkabout. It is the seat of the Avenue of Liberty with its elegant tailoring shops, cafes and tree-lined green spaces.
The Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery are on the World Heritage list. Standing at the entrance to Lisbon harbor, the “Monastery is Portuguese art at its best”. The nearby tower was built to celebrate the maritime achievements of Vasco da Gama and should be on everyone’s list of must see.
The beauty of Lisbon at night
Pasteis da Nata loved by locals and tourists alike for their flaky crust and creamy, sweet egg filling, have put Lisbon on dessert-lovers’ maps. Even though they are made all over the country and found in nearly every pastry shop, only 3 people know the original recipe: the same one that is sold in Belém.
If you like a vibrant nightlife with music and dancing you have come to the right place. If you are a beer drinker, Lisbon was the first major international city to buy into Guinness. Nuf said right?
Eat
Before the pandemic Lisbon had an exploding foodie scene with the influx of immigrants adding to the mix and the expats choosing it as the relocation city of choice. While some places closed, many adapted and figured out what to do while others used it as an opportunity to open something new.
While I don’t always include hotel restaurants in my picks, my first choice for fine dining in Lisbon has got to be Feitoria tucked away in the Altis Hotel and Spa in Belem. As if the views weren’t to die for enough, the food will leave you wanting more as well.
The elegant interiors at Feitoria Photos: Courtesy of Feitoria-Facebook
The Michelin-starred baby of Chef Joao Rodrigues, this spot consistently puts out high quality composed dishes utilizing the best organic ingredients and seafood that Portugal has to offer. While the dishes are traditional, the kitchen is incorporating new technologies to create unforgettable experiences.
The food centers around lovely dishes and the tasting menus created by Chef and highlights exotic cuisines from around the world. The plates are styled with precision backed by a world class wine list from which to choose.
The interior design is sophisticated but comfortable providing an elegant spa experience in food that really can’t be beat.
Prefer something a little more casual and less expensive? Try Attla Restaurante in Alcantara. Andre Fernandes worked in several Michelin restaurants before taking off to learn more about his craft in Asia and Central America.
Upon returning he opened this easy going spot with modern cuisine that reflects those travels and tastes. Working under the mission statement of “no borders” Fernandes has a knack for balancing complex flavors that center around what “nature brings them to work with each week”.
Casual friendly dining at Attla Restaurante in Lisbon Photos: Courtesy Attla Restaurant-Facebook
Think things like Spider crab with a beurre blanc miso or beet gazpacho with cherries and oat. Potato and sour onion ravioli with preserved lemon and smoked mackerel is a crowd pleaser of the first order. Don’t forget to try desserts like Szechuan pepper pudding with tea granita and citrus sauce. This is a cozy neighborhood dining experience of the highest quality you won’t want to miss.
When I say sushi, you don’t say Lisbon-normally that is. Then Praia no Parque came along and changed all that. Chef Lucas Azevado opened this little dream of a restaurant sporting 12 seats at the counter and panoramic views of Edward VII Park with a lovely outdoor dining terrace.
As the sun goes down the lights come up to create a very dramatic setting with fabulous contemporary plates of the freshest and best sushi available in the city. The bar menu highlights carpaccio, sashimi, sushi, nigiri, sea-urchin and Wagyu beef.
Did someone clap and say cocktails? You know how I love a good signature drink and I would be remiss not to steer you towards the best speakeasy around Lisbon in the form of the Red Frog right off the Avenue of Liberty. A tad expensive, a bit exclusive with it’s reservations and doorbell only service but the most unique and complex cocktails around.
The bartenders take their jobs seriously composing hi-tech recipes utilizing centrifuges and sous-vide machines. Try The Fancy Boy with vodka, gin, lillet blanc and mango topped off with a little coconut milk and nasturtium.
How about a Gimlet with sea fennel or a tequila drink that uses black garlic? Not only do the drinks sport fun names but they are beautiful to behold-visually-stunning really. Traditional Portuguese ingredients such as carob, port and custard tart play their parts. Do put this on your bucket list of must-dos!
Photos: Courtesy of Red Frog-Facebook
Stay
I know I usually give you a couple of different places to stay but this time I decided to focus on one special spot. That would be The Hotel Britania nestled in the historic center of the city on a peaceful road running beside the Avenue of Liberty.
As one of the Lisbon Heritage Collection hotels, this is an original genuine Art Deco facility designed as a part of a project by the illustrious modernist Portuguese architect, Cassiano Branco. The company concentrates on properties of historic significance and offers sister properties around the city.
The entrance to The Hotel Britania; an Art Deco Boutique Hotel Photos: Lisbon Heritage Collection
Within walkable distance of all the grand shops and neighborhoods you will want to visit, this hotel is an oasis to come back to after a tiring day of sightseeing. The rooms are large and comfortable with views of the city and soothing warm colors in tones of yellow, beige and brown with clean furniture detailing.
Bathrooms are spacious with great amenities while terraces offer lovely spots for breakfasts and evening cocktails to watch the sun go down. There is a very nice bar and dining that offer award winning food and friendly efficient service.
Other properties on offer include the romantic Janelas Verdas located in a lovely 18th century townhouse which is said to have been home and the inspiration for the famous Ramalhete from the literary work Os Maias written by Eça de Queiróz who is said to have lived there.
Solar do Castelo is situated around the Sao Jorge Castle in the Alfama neighborhood-the only hotel in the medieval village. Take a look at the other properties as well to find the perfect fit for you and your family. All are luxury at its best in historic boutique form with romance in the air. I really can’t recommend better places to stay while visiting Lisbon. The video below will give you a nice tour of Hotel Britania.
The fabulous interiors of Lisbon Heritage Collection Hotels around Lisbon
From the Lisbon Heritage Collection the Art Deco Hotel Britania is the place to stay
Guides
As discussed above, Lisbon is cut through by several major boulevards with gardens, monuments, roundabouts and walkable pedestrian spaces. The Avenues of Liberty and Republic are the best two to explore for shopping, eating and strolling.
Avenue of Liberty leading into Edward VII Park Photo: Alexander Svensson
After walking the Avenues you can continue on to the gardens of Edward VII Park renamed from Liberty Park after a visit from the monarch in 1903 to solidify relations between the UK and Portugal. Interesting story: the second child of Queen Victoria, “Bertie” was considered a ladies man and was scandal ridden throughout his reign including his son being included on a list of possible suspects known as the serial killer, Jack the Ripper.
You know I like to do a little gallery and museum hopping everywhere I go and Lisbon has its share between the The National Museum of Ancient Art and the Gulbenkian Museum run by one of the richest foundations in the world. Both collections are worth your effort to visit and spend more than a little time doing so.
You know how I love street art and it stands to reason I would send you to Underdogs Gallery to take a look around. Opened in 2013, it shows the country’s most celebrated street artists and quickly developed a reputation for showing and commissioning innovative street art from Portugal and around the world. You’ll find work by artists such as ±MaisMenos±, whose politically charged designs can be spotted across Portugal. There’s even a store for limited editions and merchandise.
Check out and enjoy the video below which will give you a short tour of the beautiful Teatro Nacional de Sao Carlos along with a hint of the upcoming 21-22 season. Tickets are more than affordable and you won’t want to miss the architectural beauty of this gem.
A video showing the beautiful theater and speaking to the 21-22 season
Presently Lisbon is divided into 24 different municipalities further divided into 9 different neighborhoods. We have discussed just a few of the best known and most popular to explore and where most would like to live as well. The residents of Lisbon are referred to as Lisboetas.
The flag of Portugal
Additionally Lisbon has further cinematic connections with super spy James Bond when On her Majesty’s Secret Service used it as one of it’s filming locations for the one and only appearance of actor George Lazenby in the part of the famous character.
Enjoy the music in the video below to give you a good idea what you might hear in the famous Fado bars and cafes around Lisbon, Portugal. I think it is very beautiful.
Fado music made famous in Lisbon, Portugal
Holiday decorations in Lisbon, Portugal Photo: Courtesy of Lisbon Heritage Collections
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