So when I asked around “which places do you recommend to visit in Lisbon?” The universal response was pretty much “everything”. Not that helpful if you’re relying on recommendations alone to plan your trip but equally reassuring that whatever you end up doing, you’ll have a fantastic time. If you haven’t already, you’ve got to check out my 6 best local bars and restaurants to feast at, because this post is about where to go for the most photogenic spots in Lisbon and all the quirks in between.
Also if you’re wondering, did I wear the same dress to almost every single place? The answer is, yes. Yes I did.
Sintra
This tiny town dedicates all of its resources to tourism. With key landmarks like Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle and Quinta de Regaleira, hoards of tuk tuks and shuttle taxis operate to and from the historic centre. It takes just 15 minutes to walk from The Millionaire Monteiro’s palatial residence from Sintra station but once there, you’ll need to arrange for transportation to get around.
Pena Palace
Quinta de Regaleira
Monteiro’s Quinta de Regaleira was the residential home of two families. It is built in a gothic style and houses multiple grottos, ‘wells’ that connect to underground chambers, a chapel and a lake.
The Initiation Well
Alfama
Murals, the most decadent tiles in Lisbon (according to me) and streets filled with a spectrum of Pantone pastels, I didn’t turn my camera off the whole time we were wandering through the little alleyways.
Bairro Alto
This up and coming neighbourhood is home to a burgeoning cultural scene and an outdoor street art gallery. My favourite feature is the stationary tram, perfect for photo opportunities. It’s common knowledge that number 28, the route which many tourists take, is notorious for petty crime. So if you don’t want to risk your valuables being stolen, this is the perfect alternative!!
Baixa Chiado
Home to the famous elevator known for panoramic views of the city, Baixa Chiado is also the central shopping district. The best shops are the local ones, venture down R. Anchieta and along the book and print sellers to A Vida Portuguesa. It’s a shop full of those rustic vintage vibes that sells local wares – there’s a dry foods store, beautiful and affordable textiles (I bought two stunning handmade mats for €14) and a variety of luxury toiletries, to name a few.
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