Destination Lisbon, Portugal

Why You Should Visit Lisbon, Portugal

A sun-drenched city of hills, history, and heartbreakingly good custard tarts

The City That Sings to You in Tiles and Tram Bells

Lisbon isn’t just a destination—it’s a mood. A romantic, slightly melancholic, sun-drenched mood with a soundtrack of Fado and the occasional clatter of Tram 28. Built on seven hills and kissed by the Atlantic, Portugal’s capital is a place where history whispers from tiled facades, and every corner café feels like a scene from a European novella.

Whether you’re chasing castles, cocktails, or cobblestones, Lisbon delivers with flair. And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth the trip—well, let’s just say you’ll leave with more photos than regrets.

Getting There: Planes, Trains, and Iberian Charm

Lisbon is surprisingly well-connected for a city that still feels like a secret.

Airlines Flying to Lisbon Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is served by major carriers including:

• TAP Air Portugal (the national airline, with direct flights from most European capitals and North America)
• Ryanair and easyJet (for budget-friendly hops)
• Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, KLM, Emirates, and United Airlines

Train Connections

• From Spain: High-speed trains from Madrid and overnight options from Vigo or Salamanca
• Domestic: Alfa Pendular trains link Lisbon to Porto, Coimbra, and Faro with comfort and speed

Pro Tip If you’re arriving from elsewhere in Europe, consider flying into Porto or Faro and taking the train down. The views are worth the extra time—and the ticket prices are often lower.

A Brief History of Lisbon: Earthquakes, Empires, and Explorers

Lisbon’s story begins long before Instagram. The Phoenicians settled here around 1200 BC, followed by Romans, Moors, and eventually the Portuguese monarchy. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Lisbon was the launchpad of the Age of Discovery—when Vasco da Gama and friends set sail to map the world (and occasionally plunder it).

In 1755, a devastating earthquake leveled much of the city, followed by a tsunami and fires. The rebuilding gave rise to the elegant Pombaline architecture you see downtown today. Lisbon has since evolved into a city that balances its imperial past with a bohemian present.

What to See: The Greatest Hits (and a Few Hidden Tracks)

Alfama Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. Think winding alleys, laundry flapping in the breeze, and the distant sound of Fado echoing from taverns.

Belém Home to the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries. Also, the birthplace of the original Pastéis de Belém—accept no imitations.

St. George’s Castle A hilltop fortress with panoramic views and peacocks that strut like they own the place.

LX Factory A hipster haven of bookstores, rooftop bars, and art installations tucked into a former industrial complex.

Jardim Botânico & Eduardo VII Park Lush green spaces perfect for a picnic, a nap, or existential reflection.

Pro Tip Skip the tuk-tuk tours unless you enjoy paying €40 to be shaken like a cocktail. Walk or take the tram instead.

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Nightlife: From Fado to Funk

Lisbon’s nightlife is as varied as its topography. Start with a melancholic Fado performance in Alfama or Bairro Alto, then pivot to rooftop cocktails at Park Bar (yes, it’s on top of a parking garage). For late-night dancing, head to Musicbox or LuxFrágil—where DJs spin until sunrise and the crowd is equal parts local and international.

Beer Culture Portugal may be known for wine, but Lisbon’s craft beer scene is bubbling up. Try Musa, Dois Corvos, or Oitava Colina for local brews with attitude. Sagres and Super Bock are the national staples—cheap, cheerful, and best enjoyed with grilled sardines.

Dining: From Tarts to T-Bones

Lisbon’s food scene is a love letter to the sea, the spice route, and the grandmother who still insists you’re too skinny.

Must-Try Dishes

• Bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with eggs and potatoes)
• Grilled octopus with olive oil and garlic
• Piri-piri chicken
• Pastéis de nata (custard tarts sent from heaven)

Restaurants Worth the Forklift

• Time Out Market: A curated food hall with everything from Michelin-starred bites to street food
• Cervejaria Ramiro: Legendary seafood and steak
• Taberna da Rua das Flores: Small plates, big flavors, and no reservations

Pro Tip Don’t ask for butter with your bread. You’ll get it—but you’ll pay for it. Welcome to the Portuguese menu mystery.

Language: Will They Understand Me?

Yes. Most Lisboetas speak English, especially in hospitality, retail, and tourism. You’ll hear plenty of French, Spanish, and German too. That said, a few Portuguese phrases go a long way:

• “Obrigado/a” – Thank you
• “Bom dia” – Good morning
• “Uma cerveja, por favor” – A beer, please

Where to Stay: From Palaces to Pillow Forts

Lisbon offers accommodation for every budget and mood.

Luxury Hotels

• One Palácio da Anunciada: 5-star elegance near Avenida da Liberdade
• Verride Palácio Santa Catarina: Boutique charm with river views

Mid-Range Gems

• Alegria Boutique Hotel: Airy rooms in Principe Real
• Hotel Lisboa Plaza: Classic comfort near the city center

Budget-Friendly Options

• Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel: Social, central, and surprisingly stylish
• My Story Hotel Rossio: Affordable rooms with a view

Pro Tip Book early if visiting between May and September. Lisbon’s popularity means rooms vanish faster than a pastel de nata at brunch.

Final Thoughts: Why Lisbon Will Steal Your Heart (and Maybe Your Sleep)

Lisbon is a city that doesn’t shout—it seduces. It’s the kind of place where you’ll lose track of time, fall in love with a viewpoint, and consider quitting your job to become a tram conductor. It’s romantic without being cloying, historic without being dusty, and vibrant without being chaotic.

Whether you’re here for the castles or the cocktails, the tarts or the techno, Lisbon will welcome you with open arms—and probably a glass of vinho verde.

Pro Tip Don’t try to “do” Lisbon. Let Lisbon do you. And bring comfortable shoes. Those hills are real.