Lisbon, Portugal
- Hannah Ware
- Sep 17, 2018
- 3 min read
Accommodation:
In Lisbon, we couldn't find an Airbnb for less than $50 a night (our budget) in a good location, so I took to Google and found a shared apartment floor for about $160 for our 4 nights there.
I would probably not do this again because our apartment mates (other short term renters) were loud at all times of the day and night. I said hi to one of them once, some Russian brat doll looking girl with a cigarette hanging out her mouth. She ignored me.
And the floors always squeaked, even if you were trying to be quiet as a mouse. At least everything was clean and we had a (shared) porch. (Porch view shown below)
Sights:
1. Belém Tower
This castle on the water looks straight out of a fairytale. In 1514, this tower was part of the Tagus defense system. We only marveled at the outside, there was a long line to go inside and it cost 6 euro.
2. Bairro Alto
This is central Lisbon with a bustling night life! There is a plethora of places to eat and drink here. We rode the funicular up the hill to here, I highly recommend it!
TIP: You can ride for free if you have the 24 hour day pass for transportation. (Its 6 euro and for people taking more than 5 trips in a day) Buy it at any metro station.
3. Rossio Square
This is the main square in Lisbon where you can sit and relax by the water, shop, eat, and see some sights. We saw some great street performers in this square.
4. Padrão dos Descobrimentos
If you love a good 360 degree view of the city, like my boyfriend, then you'll enjoy this sight.
On top of the 56 meter tall building, you can see the river, the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Palace, Memória Church, Ajuda National Palace, Tejo Power Station and the Belém Cultural Centre.
The regular price is 5 euros.
5. Christ the King
This is a giant Jesus statue, inspired after the one in Brazil but not as iconic. This place also has a view of the city but not as great of one, and it takes awhile to get to. To me it wasn't worth it although it is free.
6. Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)
This is the oldest and most important church in Lisbon and has survived several earthquakes. We did not go inside, all churches start to look the same after awhile (and it was 4 euro to get in).
We did manage to snap a photo as the iconic 1930's Tram 28 was passing in front. We didn't get to ride the tram (its always so packed) but it would be a lovely tour of the city. And again, you can use your 24 hour transportation pass on it.
Food:
Pastel de nata: this is Lisbon's traditional food. It is an egg tart pastry with cinnamon on top. Only a hand full of chefs in Lisbon know the recipe, its top secret! I didn't care for them but definitely worth a try.
Beach
If you are looking for a beach in Lisbon, good luck. I was disappointed to find out the closest beach was an hour away by public transportation. We did go to the closest one but it was very underwhelming and small.
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