Curator’s statement
Lisbon is a romantic snapshot of old coastal Europe. With its cute fishing neighborhoods, the scent of fresh baked Pastel De Nata in the streets, Roman buildings cascading up and down hillsides, Lisbon is a lovers' getaway. There is a plethora of things to do — like exploring museums and embarking on seaside day trips — plus beautiful beaches and a food scene that (in my expert opinion) is one of the best in all of Europe.
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Day 1: Check in & take a tuk tuk tour of Lisbon
After your arrival and check into your hotel, I always recommend taking a quick two hour nap. It helps kill any chance of jet lag, and allows your body to rest enough to still enjoy the rest of your first day!
After a nap, take a half-day tuktuk tour of Lisbon. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with the city without having to walk all of it. Bonus, you'll have someone teaching you about the city’s history during your ride in a tuk tuk!
In the evening, I'd make my way to the river and enjoy a sunset cruise! I would stop in at one of the many sidewalk cafes for a light dinner before heading up to Limão Rooftop Bar for a nightcap.
Day 2: Explore Belem and enjoy a local feast
Belem, a UNESCO neighborhood, can't be missed. One of the best ways to get there is the hop on-hop off riverboat. Your ticket is good to use all day.
Once you're in Belem, you can explore Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a monastery from the 1500’s. You can also check out Belem's Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology while you’re exploring Belem.
As you make your way through Belem and back to Lisbon, don’t fill up. In the early afternoon, treat yourself to a feast at Time Out Market. At this food hall, you will enjoy tapas and beverages from different food vendors, each with their own specialty. Be sure to note the seafood market that is attached to the far side of building, which also serves up fresh sit-down meals. After your food coma (and inevitable nap), head out in search of a Fado show!
Day 3: Venture to Sintra to visit Pena Palace & The Castle of the Moors
Sintra is a small town, that's very easy to get to from Lisbon by train. The trains run every 30 minutes from Rossio station.
First stop during your day trip should be to Pena Palace. Grab a cab to the top of the mountain and explore Pena Palace and Park as you walk downwards. Make sure to book tickets in advance because lines form to get into the Palace.
A short walk from the exit of the palace and gardens, is the entrance to the Moorish Castle. (Also be sure to purchase tickets online in advance.)
After a visit at the Moorish Castle, take a quick walk back into old town and enjoy a seafood lunch with some wine and some shopping. After you’ve seen all you care to see on your day trip to Sintra, head back into Lisbon to enjoy your romantic dinner at one of the many Michelin starred restaurants in Lisbon.
Travel Advisor
Elena Federico
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Looking to explore Ireland? Check out my guide to Dublin: Guide to a Luxury Long Weekend Getaway in Dublin.