Explore & Dine Portugal's Cultural Capital: Lisbon, Portugal

Advisor - Olivia Hampton
Curated By

Olivia Hampton

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  • Lisbon

  • Arts & Culture

  • Boutique Travel

  • Family Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • History

  • Local Culturee

  • Sightseeing

A street with painted walls.
Curator’s statement

Portugal’s rise in popularity among European travelers is easy to account for. Beautiful coastlines, rich history, culture at every corner and limitless memorable dining options are a few reasons why Portugal’s capital city of Lisbon should be your next destination. Lisbon perfectly balances the walkability and mild weather of long favorite European destinations like Barcelona with the modern edge and cultural depth travelers crave. Any city traveler will be eager to return after a trip to Lisbon.

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Insider knowledge

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Where to stay in Lisbon, Portugal

Memmo Alfama Hotel Lisboa

Experience the allure of Lisbon from the Memmo Alfama Hotel, where contemporary elegance, breathtaking views of the historic Alfama district and warm Portuguese hospitality combine to create an unforgettable stay in the heart of the city.

Bairro Alto Hotel

This luxury boutique Lisbon stay combines refined, modern decor with a reverence for Lisbon's colorful heritage.

Fora Perks
  • $100 food / beverage credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The Emerald House Lisbon, Curio Collection by Hilton

Sophisticated hotel in the heart of Lisbon with rooms and suites inspired by art and Portuguese culture.

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Things to do in Lisbon, Portugal

City center in Lisbon during daytime.
  • LX Factory: This happening market has everything from food stands, seated restaurants and bars to clothing vendors to tattoo parlors. You could spend an entire day (and night) in this cultural feast for the senses.

  • A Severa: Technically a restaurant, A Severa is a unique experience that engrosses you in Portuguese traditional Fado music, with amazing performances in an intimate setting.

  • Museum of Contemporary Art: Art lovers rejoice, because Lisbon’s Contemporary Art museum does not disappoint.

  • MAAT: Perfectly blending modern art with the intersection of architecture and technology, museum lovers will be engrossed in the unique experience of the MAAT Museum.

  • Miradouro de Santa Luzia: While this scenic overlook sits at the top of one of Lisbon’s most buzzing neighborhoods, you never feel crowded while embracing views of the entire city.

  • Torre de Belem: An iconic Lisbon landmark, this medieval tower is worth a stop-off if you find yourself in Belem.

  • Jardim Botanico de Lisboa: If you are looking for a beautiful respite to the busy city, spend an afternoon wandering around Lisbon’s botanical gardens.

  • Feira da Ladra: A buzzing flea market only open twice a week, this outdoor market is a wonderful place to browse for local antiques and souvenirs.

Day Trips

Sintra: A short train ride from Lisbon's Rossio train station, the magical town of Sintra is worth a day trip. Known for its iconic, bright yellow Palácio Nacional da Pena, you won't regret spending a day in this fantasy land.

Places to eat & drink in Lisbon, Portugal

Round marble tray with burgers and sides.
  • Essencial: The most memorable meal you’ll have in Lisbon. Essential is an incredible tasting menu experience with warm and personal service that you will go home raving about.

  • Pasteis de Belem: Arguably the most famous pasteis de nata in Lisbon, and for good reason. You won’t be able to eat just one of their delectable Portuguese egg tarts.

  • Red Frog Speakeasy: A vibe in every sense of the word, this speakeasy is ideal for the cocktail snob in your group.

  • O Barrigas: This traditional Portuguese restaurant boasts classic dishes in the buzzing Bairro Alto neighborhood, and the intimate ambiance matches the food perfectly. Come prepared. This spot is cash only!

  • Union- Portugal: Argentinian food in Portugal may feel counter-intuitive, but you won’t regret popping into Union for an empanada or alfajore to snack on while you’re climbing the streets of Alfama.

  • Tasca Baldracca: A vibrant tapas spot at the edge of Alfama, you won’t regret sharing half the menu with an ice cold beer.

  • Antu Alfama: The most aesthetic and delicious place to stop for any meal of the day.

  • Mister Tapas: If you are looking for a scenic place to stop off for a drink while taking in the tourist attractions of Belem, you can’t do much better than the waterfront Mister Tapas. Rest your feet and enjoy a giant Aperol spritz after a morning of sightseeing.

Need to Know

For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Danielle Thomas’s guide, How to Eat Your Way Through Lisbon, Portugal. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Lisbon.

Advisor - Olivia Hampton

Travel Advisor

Olivia Hampton

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