Trip Report: Lisbon, Portugal

Trip review: Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, the sun-kissed capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city brimming with rich history, stunning architecture and a lively culinary scene. My recent visit during the Christmas season made the experience all the more enchanting with festive lights and delightful treats. Here’s a detailed recap of my journey, focusing on the culinary highlights and must-see locations.

Culinary delights:

One of the standout meals I enjoyed was at Café São Bento, renowned for its legendary steak. This traditional eatery serves what many consider the best "bife à café," a juicy steak prepared to perfection, served with a decadent sauce. The ambiance is cozy, reminiscent of a classic Portuguese café, with wood-paneled walls and a warm atmosphere. Pairing the steak with a glass of local red wine made the meal unforgettable.

During my culinary adventures, I couldn’t miss tasting the famous francesinha, a hearty sandwich originally from Porto but beloved in Lisbon. It consists of layers of cured meats and sausage, topped with a juicy steak, all enveloped in a thick slice of bread and smothered in a rich, spicy tomato sauce, served with melted cheese. It’s a must-try for any food lover!

Another local gem is the bifana sandwich, a delicious pork sandwich marinated in a savory garlic and spice mixture, served on a fresh, crusty roll. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish, often enjoyed as a quick snack from street stalls or casual eateries.

Lisbon is renowned for its fresh and delicious seafood, largely due to its location along the Atlantic coast. The city's culinary scene showcases a variety of seafood dishes influenced by both traditional Portuguese cooking and Mediterranean flavors. Here are some highlights:

Lisbon has vibrant fish markets like Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market), where you can find a variety of freshly caught seafood. Visiting these markets provides an opportunity to enjoy a range of local delicacies and sample dishes right from the source.

The city is dotted with numerous restaurants specializing in seafood, from casual taverns to upscale dining. Cervejaria Ramiro is one such example, famous for its lavish seafood platters.

Overall, seafood in Lisbon is not just a meal — it’s an essential part of the city’s culture and culinary identity. Enjoying a seafood feast is a must for visitors to fully experience Lisbon’s gastronomic offerings.

Of course, no trip is complete in Portugal without having some Pastéis de nata. Pastéis de nata, often referred to as custard tarts, are a beloved Portuguese pastry known for their flaky crust and creamy custard filling. The origins of date back to the 18th-century Lisbon. They were created by monks who used excess egg yolks to make the tarts. When the monastery was closed, the recipe was sold to a nearby pastry shop, and the treat became popular.

Christmas market:

During my visit, I explored the Christmas market at Praça do Comércio, one of Lisbon’s most iconic squares. The market was a festive wonderland filled with twinkling lights, artisanal crafts and delicious seasonal treats. I savored roasted chestnuts and indulged in sweet treats like **Bolo Rei**, a traditional Portuguese cake shaped like a crown. The cheerful atmosphere, combined with festive music and local vendors, created a delightful experience, perfect for holiday shopping and enjoying the festive spirit.

Famous locations:

Lisbon is renowned for its picturesque neighborhoods, and I made sure to visit Alfama, the city’s oldest district. Its narrow, winding streets, colorful tiled facades and stunning views from the Miradouro de Santa Catarina are breathtaking. Another highlight was the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which stands as a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

A visit to the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém was awe-inspiring. This intricate architectural masterpiece showcases stunning Manueline style and is home to the tomb of Vasco da Gama. Nearby, I also had to try the famous Pastéis de Belém, the origin of the beloved custard tart.

Accommodation: Casa Balthazar Hotel

For my stay, I chose Casa Balthazar, a charming boutique hotel perched in the heart of the city. It was a magical stay tucked away behind a private entrance. My room was a luxurious Jacuzzi suite overlooking Lisbon, offering a perfect blend of comfort and elegance. The spacious bathroom features a large Jacuzzi tub. The jacuzzi on the terrace, allowing me to relax while taking in stunning views of the city skyline and the beautiful Tejo River was a dream after walking all day. The hotel staff was attentive and friendly, ensuring a delightful experience. The décor was a blend of contemporary style with traditional Portuguese touches. The spa area is reserved for just you, with access to a steam room, sauna, jacuzzi and showers.

The hotel also had a lovely terrace where I enjoyed breakfast each morning, under the picturesque backdrop of Lisbon's rooftops. The fresh pastries, honey and cured meats perfectly complemented my mornings, making it an ideal start to each day of exploration.

Conclusion:

My trip to Lisbon was an incredible experience filled with culinary delights, stunning sights and warm hospitality. From savoring the legendary steak at Café São Bento to enjoying the festive atmosphere of the Christmas market, every moment was memorable. Lisbon's richness in culture, history and gastronomy truly makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.

I would love to help plan your unforgettable Portugal vacation.

My trip to Lisbon was an incredible experience filled with culinary delights, stunning sights, and warm hospitality. From savoring the legendary steak at Café São Bento to enjoying the festive atmosphere of the Christmas market, every moment was memorable. Lisbon's richness in culture, history, and gastronomy truly makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.

I would love to help plan your unforgettable Portugal vacation.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Lisbon page.