Pastéis, Paella, & Panoramas: Tastes and Sights of Portugal

Upon arrival, check into your hotel, then lace up your walking shoes to explore Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods. Climbing the hills rewards you with stunning views and an authentic feel for the city’s vibrant vibe. Don’t miss a Fado show in Alfama—the haunting voices paired with Portuguese guitar are truly moving and unforgettable.

For dinner, head to Pinoquio—reservations are essential, as their house paella and fresh seafood live up to the hype. Afterward, wander the streets and alleys of Chiado and Baixa at night, when the city transforms into a lively, energetic wonderland. It’s the perfect blend of culture, music, food, and the magic of Lisbon after dark.

Start your morning at Breakfast Lovers in Chiado, a charming café known for its incredible flavor combinations and a view of the iconic Tram 28 rolling by—perfect for a picturesque, energizing start. Next, join a 3.5-hour walking tour through Chiado, Baixa, and Alfama. Your guide will share local tips, like using escalators and elevators to tackle Lisbon’s hills, and you’ll get to sample pastel de nata, pastéis de bacalhau, and Portugal’s famous Vinho Verde along the way.

For lunch, head to Bifanas do Afonso for the best bifanas in town—even locals swear by them. Don’t forget to add mustard and a drizzle of piri piri oil to really elevate the flavors.

For dinner, make your way to Restaurante Chapitô à Mesa and book the upstairs panoramic section in advance for unbeatable sunset views. The service is excellent, and if you mention any special celebrations beforehand, they’ll surprise you with a slice of cake and champagne, making the experience truly unforgettable.

Book a full-day guided tour of Sintra and Cascais to see Portugal’s stunning palaces and seaside towns without the hassle of planning transport. Meet your small group early, around 8 am, and let your guide drive you up the hills to almost the top of Pena Palace—the views and history are worth every winding turn. After a bit of self-exploring in the palace, wander the charming town for about 45 minutes.

Don’t miss Casa Piriquita for a Travesseiro, their famous pillow-shaped pastry filled with egg and almond custard—a perfect balance of flavors. Next, head to Cascais, a bustling beachside town with tons of great food. Mariscaria combo for two is a must-try, filling your bellies with incredible seafood. Wrap up the day with drinks and small bites at Terraço Editorial (enter through Pollux department store). Then end the night at Praça do Comércio, where there’s always energy, crowds, and something exciting happening.

On your final morning, start at Nicolau Lisboa with an immunity booster shot and your favorite hot drink. Their shakshuka or pancakes are the perfect way to fuel up for a day of wandering and hill-climbing.

A quick train ride brings you to Belém, where the river greets you with the Monument to the Discoveries and the majestic Belém Tower. The nearby Jerónimos Monastery is worth exploring, whether on your own or with a guide. And no visit to Belém is complete without tasting the original pastel de nata at Pastéis de Belém—the iconic custard pastry that melts in your mouth.

Back in Lisbon, the vibrant Time Out Market offers a feast for the senses—something to tempt every taste. Stroll through Bairro Alto and Chiado, snapping photos at the scenic Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara before heading to Casa São Miguel in Alfama. The warm, welcoming owner, delectable cakes, and luxuriously rich hot chocolate make it a sweet highlight of the day.

A short hotel break gives time for a final outfit change before dinner at Taberna da Baixa (#161). Their traditional seafood rice is legendary—one portion easily feeds three, and every bite is worth savoring. It’s the perfect ending to a day of flavors, views, and Lisbon magic.