Three Things I Loved About Lisbon

We recently spent five days in Lisbon, the capital and tourist centre of Portugal.

The selfie sticks, fanny packs, and Tilley hats were everywhere. However, since we were visiting during shoulder season, I’m sure it is nothing in comparison to what the locals are used to seeing during the summer months.

Lisbon had all the hustle and bustle of a large tourist town and given the beauty of the city, and the charm of the locals, it was easy to look beyond the throngs of tourists to enjoy this incredibly interesting, historic capital.

 

And on that note, here are Three Things I Loved about Lisbon:

 

1) Alfama
Alfama is the oldest district in Lisbon. This neighbhourhood is thousands of years old. Wrap your head around that! Complete with streets that will fascinate and confuse the hell out of you, with an endless selection of restaurants/cafés with the oh-so-tempting Pasteis de Nata‘s at every turn.
We were lucky to be residing in this beautiful part of town during our stay which allowed us to feel as though we were transported back in time, to a more authentic version of the city. One can easily spend hours exploring the streets, taking in the breathtaking views of the city. To get lost in Alfama is what every tourist visiting Lisbon needs to do.

 

2) Fado
When in Lisbon especially, one must experience Fado, the traditional music of Portugal. Fado is typically characterized by mournful lyrics and melancholic tunes. Historically, men and women separated by the sea would express their longing for one another in this beautifully personal form. In Lisbon, there is a solo singer flanked by two guitarist, one who plays a twelve-stringed Portuguese guitar and the other who plays a six-stringed viola. It it truly beautiful to bare witness to some of these artists and this historical art form. We saw some great Fado in Alfama however there is no shortage of great Fado throughout the city, so make sure you take it in!

 

3) Boi-Cavalo
This was our favorite restaurant in Lisbon, and yes, it is also in Alfama. I swear we left the district!
The place was packed on Friday and Saturday night so we knew we had to try it out. Thankfully, Sunday night seemed quieter and we walked right in, so I would definitely recommend going on a Sunday. The service was lovely and the food was devine. They specialize in small tapas plates, but offer items other than bread and cheese! We had lamb kebabs, fried squid, and gyoza with clams. They change the menu on a regular basis and if you are a foodie, it is definitely worth checking out!

 

Finally, a special mention to Rita at Wip-hairport Lisbon who gave me the best cut and colour of my life. If you are ever in Lisbon and are in need of a hair-fix, this girl has your back. I couldn’t be happier. Just take a look at the before and after… Thanks Rita!

 

Have you ever been to Lisbon? What did you love about the city?