Portugal is a dream trip… here are the things not to miss!
1. Day Trip to Sintra
Sintra is an easy 1 hour train ride from Lisbon, and you will get a full day to explore so many unique castles. This is a MUST do!
2. Castelo de Sao Jorge
An expansive castle with incredible views of the city! Would be a great place for sunset as well with a little cafe and seating.
3. Day trip to Belem
A half day in Belem is a great way to spend a day. It’s a short train ride, and you can check out the Jeronimos Monastary, the Tower of Belem and get Pasteis de Belem!
4. Drink Ginginja
This is so fun! You can get these at stores, or from random ladies selling them out of their homes. They come in a little chocolate cup and it’s a cherry flavor liquor.
5. Commerce Square
This is a huge square right on the ocean. Lots of restaurants and bars and just a nice place to hang out right on the water. There is an arch you can go up to the top of for even better views.
6. Carmo Convent
This is a former convent that was destroyed during the devastating earth quake in 1755. Some of the remains are still there and it makes for a really interesting place to walk around and take pictures.
7. Evening Lisbon Vibes
One of our favorite things to do in Lisbon was wandering the beautifully tiled streets in the evening. There was live music everywhere, good treats (e.g. gelato!), and the city looked beautiful at night.
8. Pasteis de Nada or Pasteis de Belem
Get these every chance you get. I dream of these and can’t find them anywhere in the states… and when we’ve seen in other countries, they are not the same. They are about $1 and delicious. We got them all day long!
9. Views from above Santa Justa Lift
This lift was RIGHT next to our amazing hotel. There was music playing each night there. You can pay to take the lift up to the top, but it’s expensive. Or – you can walk to it from the top level and get the same views without paying!
10. Wander Alfama
Wandering the streets of Alfama was a highlight. The streets are so charming, twisting all over the city with fun shops, restaurants and the occasional lady selling ginginja from her home. Great place for photography as well. You can also check out the Lisbon Cathedral while in this area. Plan for a good 1/2 day just wandering and getting lost in these beautiful streets.
