Lisbon

Lisbon, the sun-kissed capital of Portugal, is a city of historic charm and vibrant energy, where ancient castles overlook a quaint city below, and the scent of freshly baked custard tarts fills the air as you stroll along the city’s iconic tiled streets

Sunsets, Tarts and Trams!

Pasteis de Belem (Custard Tarts)

This is the famous pastry shop that created the first “pastel de nata” (custard tart). The secret recipe was passed down for generations, is still used today and made exclusively at their Lisbon location. If you don’t happen upon this location you will find the most delicious tarts just about anywhere. This custard tart and glass of cava from Time Out Market.

Unbelievable Sunsets

Both Lisbon and Porto have the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen.

In Libson, the Portuguese and tourists alike go to parks and other look out points and have a drink as they watch the sun set on the horizon. One hot spot is Jardin do Torel for magnificent views.

`Tram 28 Experience`

More of an experience than a single site, the historic yellow Tram 28 rumbles and screeches its way through Lisbon’s most picturesque neighborhoods, including Alfama, Baixa, and Graça. It’s a fantastic (and popular) way to see the city.Board at the starting points (Martim Moniz or Campo de Ourique) for a better chance of getting a seat.

Waterfront Squares & Markets!

Time Out Market

I loved the Time Out Market to grab some great food from some of Lisbon’s best chefs, and restaurants under one roof. Filled with small tables and larger communal tables it’s perfect if you’re travelling solo. This bustling food hall is the perfect place to sample a wide variety of Portuguese and international cuisine in a lively, and comfortable atmosphere.

Commerce Waterfront Square

This is one of Europe’s most magnificent squares, opening onto the Tagus River. Once the site of the royal palace, it’s now a grand plaza framed by yellow arcaded buildings and dominated by a triumphal arch, the Arco da Rua Augusta. You can go to the top of the arch for great views. .

Holiday Lights

If you happen to be in Lisbon during the holiday period you’ll love the display of Holiday lights and opportunity to visit Christmas Markets. Up near the Avenida metro on the Av. Da Liberdade, the streets were lit with lights hanging from the tree tops making the street feel like a holiday wonderland and squares were lit up with holiday ornaments among the Christmas markets.

Lisbon’s Best Coffee Shops!

Fabrica Coffee Roasters

This is in the back streets behind Av. da Liberdade (near Avenida Metro). It’s comfortable, homey and has fantastic coffee. There are several locations throughout Lisbon. This location: R. das Portas de Santo Antão 136.

Simpli Coffee

A beautiful small cafe with great coffee and treats. There are several locations. I visited the one on Largo da Anunciada 20, just down the street from the Fabrica Coffee Roasters.

Delta Coffee House

Delta Coffee House Is a very large coffee shop and feels a little more impersonal compared to the smaller coffee shops, however there are some great gluten free treats available and full breakfast options, plus it’a very comfortable spot to sit and relax.

Banana Cafe

I chose Banana Coffee House for it’s location on Av. de Liberdade on the pedestrian island across from the shops. It’s a lovely place to sit and rest from your day and serves up coffee, banana bread and other treats.