Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon has pulled us back more than once — first on a big January 2023 European trip and again in early 2025 for a long stay in a central apartment in the Bairro Alto area on Rua Nova do Loureiro.
Our experience
We've been back three times since 2023. We're smitten with this hilly city of seven hills above the Tagus: pastel facades and tiled buildings, rattling yellow trams, miradouros (viewpoints) at the top of every climb, and the melancholy beauty of fado in the evening.
The light is extraordinary, the seafood is superb, and the pace invites long lunches. On our first visit we toured by electric tuk-tuk and lingered over wine and cheese — a perfect introduction to a city built for wandering.
Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe — older than Rome — and the pastel-painted hills you see today rose after a catastrophic 1755 earthquake; the Baixa district was rebuilt on one of the world's first quake-resistant grid plans.
Must-sees and must-dos
- Tram 28 — the historic yellow streetcar that climbs through Alfama and beyond.
- Belém — the Jerónimos Monastery, the riverside tower, and the original pastéis de nata.
- Alfama — the old Moorish quarter, best explored on foot, with live fado at night.
- Miradouros — hilltop viewpoints like Senhora do Monte for sunset over the river.
- São Jorge Castle — the hilltop fortress with sweeping city views.
- Time Out Market — a food hall sampling the best of the city's kitchens.
Our pro tip
We've learned to wear real walking shoes — Lisbon's hills and slick cobbles are no joke. Base yourself centrally (we love the Bairro Alto / Chiado area) so the trams, viewpoints and nightlife are at your door.
Spring and fall are perfect; midsummer is hot and crowded. And always start the day with a fresh pastel de nata.
For a first look at the city, take a Lisbon Famous Tram Line 28 Tuk-Tuk Tour on Klook, following a route through areas including Alfama, Graça, Chiado and some of the city's viewpoints.
If you're planning to use the trams and visit several major sights, book a Lisbon City Card on Klook.