The Traveller's Magazine
It’s the locals who really know the ins and outs of their city, so why not let them be your guide? Lisbon is at the top of our city break list this summer, for its tasty cakes, sun-loving location and of course for Portuguese culture.
What to do?
First time in Lisbon? Get introduced to your surroundings by following our list of 10 things to do in Lisbon. That should cover you for at least a couple days, perfect if you’ve caught cheap flights to Lisbon for a long weekend. If you have some more time, here are just a few suggestions to give you more of a local’s taste of this incredible city.
Museu Calouste Gulbenkian
One of Lisbon’s most important art collections in housed here, collected over four decades by Calouste Gulbenkian. The museum is located in the middle of a gorgeous garden, also belonging to museum and foundation in the collector’s name. The art covers everything from 12th century Oriental works to 19th century European.
- Address: 45A Avenida de Berna – Avenidas
- Open: Tues-Sun 10:00-17:45
Monsanto
City parks are few and far between in Lisbon, so when you find one you definitely enjoy it. Monsanto not exactly a well-planned out city park like we’re used to in London, rather it’s more like a forest with trails, on top of a mountain, with amazing views of the city. Reach it via Bus 724.
- Address: Estr. dos Montes Claros – Santos & Alcântara
- Open: always
Where to shop?
Lisbon has a few tricks up its sleeve when it comes to shopping. If you can’t get enough of delicious Portuguese food or treats or if you are looking for some interesting souvenirs for your trips take a look at these recommendations.
Ler Devagar
We’re certain this bookstore will impress! It’s set inside an old printing factory and is part bookstore, part cafe, part printing museum. The factory is lined floor to ceiling in shelves. Even if you just come for a coffee, take a look at the old presses, they’re pretty impressive.
- Address: Rua Rodrigues Faris 103 – Santos & Alcântara
- Open: Tues-Thurs 12:00-00:00. Fri-Sat 12:00-02:00, Sun 11:00-22:00
Mercado da Ribeira
Lisbon is full of covered fresh food markets, each neighbourhood has one but the most famous in the city is without a doubt the Mercado da Ribeira. You’ll find it along the riverside, across from the Cais de Sodré tracks. It’s mostly just fresh foods on sale here (hello, picnic lunch?), but if you’re a photographer there are some great shots to catch in the fish and flower sections.
- Address: Av. 24 de Julho – Riverside
- Open: Tues-Sat 05:00-14:00
Have you ever been to Lisbon? Do you or have you lived there? Let us in on some of your favourite spots around the city!
