Lisbon’s vibrant streets are a blend of history, culture, and traditional food, making it the perfect destination for a short escape. In just three days, we explored Lisbon, discovering hidden parts of the city, indulging in local cuisine, and taking in the beauty of Portugal’s capital. This guide covers our favorite moments and must-see spots, offering a glimpse into what makes Lisbon so special.
DAY 1
Exploring Lisbon on Foot
We kicked off our trip with a walking tour guided by Nuno, a local expert recommended by a coworker. Nuno’s warmth, knowledge, and passion for the city created an unforgettable experience. He led us on a four-hour journey through Chiado and Carmo before taking us to the districts of Mouraria, Alfama, and Graça, where we got a chance to experience more of the rich history of the city.
A stop at Café Restaurante Martinho da Arcada for Nuno’s favorite pastéis de nata was a special treat. From there, we headed to Conserveira de Lisboa, a family-run shop renowned for its top-quality sardines, mackerel, and olive oil. The warm welcome from Tiano, the owner, made the experience even more special. Amidst the touristy options, it was refreshing to experience an authentic, high-quality place like this, thanks to Nuno.
Our tour was full of history, from seeing the oldest house in Lisbon to hearing stories of resilience. We wrapped up the day with an authentic Portuguese lunch at Penalva Da Graça—tuna, fried mackerel, boiled potatoes, and a crisp glass of green wine. It was the perfect end to a day filled with culture and new friendships.
DAY 2
Discovering Belém
On day two, we ventured to Belém, starting with an unexpected but inspiring stop at the Champalimaud Foundation. This cutting-edge research center bridges science and real-world impact, and we were amazed by the quiet surroundings and motivational engravings in the grounds.
From there, we walked along the river, visiting Belém’s iconic landmarks—the Belem Tower and Padrão dos Descobrimentos. Across the street was Jerónimos Monastery, one of the most prominent examples of Gothic architecture in Portugal. Of course, we had to taste the original Pastéis de Belém before leaving. The story is that the delicious pastry was discovered here in 1837. For that reason, the Belém location is in high demand, so when you arrive make sure to head to the left of the restaurant. Look for the “to go” line. You’ll enjoy the same pastries in a fraction of the time.
Another pro tip: If you plan to tour the monuments, book tickets in advance to avoid the very long lines, which are not protected from the hot sun in the summertime.
DAY 3
Tagus River Views
On our final day, we took the Cacilheiro ferry from Cais do Sodré across the Tagus River. This quick, 10-minute scenic ride brought us to a little fishing village where we were told we could find the freshest seafood. Our sights were set on Ponto Final, which gained notoriety after being featured on the show Somebody Feed Phil.
After a scenic hike through the village, we stumbled upon a lookout tower that offered sweeping views of the river, the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, the city of Lisbon, and the restaurant below. The climb was worth it as we took in the incredible view. However, the meal was the true reward. Seated right by the water, we enjoyed olives, fish soup, and incredibly fresh fish, paired with a bottle of Quinta de Camarate Branco Seco from Vinho Verde. The sea breeze, the lively atmosphere, and the delicious meal made it a perfect outing.
Where to stay
The Hotel Ivens
We chose to stay at The Ivens Hotel, a boutique hotel in the heart of Chiad. The stylish hotel blends adventure and modern elegance with its jungle prints, plush velvet chairs, tropical plants, and elegant details. It was the perfect blend of comfort and style and the ideal place for unwinding after a day of exploring the city. The friendly staff, Prosecco on arrival, a fig dessert welcome, and chocolates on our pillows at night were just a few of the thoughtful touches that made it extra special.
exploring lisbon
Final Thoughts
Lisbon is a city that’s easy to fall in love with. Whether you’re taking a personalized tour with Nuno (you can find him at Unofficial Ambassadors) or lingering over lunch with a view, this city offers endless opportunities for discovery. I highly recommend venturing beyond the tourist spots to experience the authentic heart of Lisbon. You’ll be rewarded with unforgettable experiences and the chance to see the city through a local’s eyes.
