Table of Contents
Introduction
Lisbon, Portugal genuinely surprised me in the best way. I’ve visited many cities around the world, but Lisbon had something special. It’s one of those rare places where, after just a few days, I knew I’d be back. If you’re thinking of travelling to Lisbon, Portugal this summer then I have a quick guide that will help you plan you’re trip. Keep reading.
I was meeting friends who had already been in the city for a while, and even though I didn’t get to explore everything that I would have liked to, I saw enough to know this place is worth a second visit. Actually… a third, fourth, or fifth.
So if you’re thinking about visiting Lisbon, especially as a solo traveller or as a first-timer, here’s your sign. Let me show you why it deserves a spot on your travel bucket list, and exactly what to do when you’re there.
Related Post: 5 Amazing European Destinations for Food Lovers
So, why would I return to Lisbon? Let me tell you…
1. Lisbon is Surprisingly Chilled
One of the first things I noticed was how relaxed the vibe was. Unlike other major European capitals that can feel a bit hectic, Lisbon has a gentler pace. You’re not being rushed. You’re not being stared down. You’re just there, welcomed.
There were hiccups, sure (as there always are), but the overall vibe? Inviting, warm, and incredibly easy-going. It felt like a place that wants you to take your time and I really did.
Things to do if you love calm cities:
- Have coffee and a pastel de nata at a local café in Bairro Alto
- Watch the sunset from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
- Stroll by the river in Belém
2. The Architecture Will Leave You Speechless
Lisbon feels like a living museum. It has so much depth and colour. There’s something magical about turning a corner and stumbling upon a tiled building (those famous azulejos), or walking up a cobbled street lined with pink, yellow, and blue houses. And because the streets are cobbled you must take comfortable shoes please!
The city blends baroque, Moorish, and neoclassical architecture so effortlessly. It’s romantic and rustic at the same time.
Architectural must-sees:
- Jerónimos Monastery – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Alfama District – the oldest neighbourhood, full of winding alleys
- Praça do Comércio – the grand square with river views
- LX Factory – an old industrial complex turned creative hub
3. It’s Perfect for New and Solo Travellers
If you’ve been wanting to take your first solo trip, Lisbon is that girl. It’s affordable, easy to navigate, and very solo-travel friendly.
I used the metro a couple of times (super simple), Uber was incredibly cheap, and most of the locals I met were so kind and helpful. I never once felt unsafe or overwhelmed which is not always the case, especially as a Black solo traveller.
Travel tips for first-timers:
- The metro is fast and safe get a Viva Viagem card
- Uber or Bolt is super cheap and reliable
- Airbnb has great value, especially outside the city centre
- Learn a few Portuguese phrases the effort goes a long way you can start today on Duolingo.
4. Let’s Talk About the Food (Because, It Deserves a Section on it’s Own)
Now let’s get to the part I couldn’t stop talking about: the food.
Lisbon seriously delivered. From melt-in-your-mouth seafood to the best egg tarts I’ve ever had, it’s a foodie’s dream. And the recommendations?
I tried the following dishes:
- Seafood at Ramiro – a local fave. Order the garlic shrimp.
- Piri Piri chicken at Bonjardim – thanks to a fire rec from Temi @thepalateport.
- Pastéis de nata from Manteigaria – flaky, creamy, perfection.
Travel Tip: Tell your followers where you are! I got the best food tips just by posting on IG stories and asking for recs. People really do come through.
5. Create Your Perfect Solo Day in Lisbon
Here’s how you should spend your days in Lisbon, Portugal:
Morning
- Grab coffee & pastel de nata in Bairro Alto
- Walk to Miradouro de Santa Catarina for morning views
- Hop on Tram 28 to see the city in slow motion
Afternoon
- Explore Alfama and visit São Jorge Castle
- Stop for lunch at Cervejaria Ramiro
- Chill and people-watch in Chiado
Evening
- Dinner at Bonjardim
- Head to Pink Street or a rooftop bar like Park Bar for a drink
6. Take a Day Trip (Or Two)
If you’re in Lisbon for more than a few days, you can easily explore beyond the city.
Day trip ideas:
- Sintra – a magical town with fairy-tale palaces like Pena Palace – You can book here.
- Cascais – beach vibes and cute boutiques
- Estoril – laid-back coastal town with casinos and gardens
7. Tap Into the Culture
Want to feel Lisbon’s heartbeat? Don’t skip the cultural side.
- Catch a Fado music performance in Alfama
- Visit the National Tile Museum
- Join a tiled azulejo painting workshop
- Time your visit with Festa de Santo António (June street parties!)
Final Views on my time in Lisbon
Lisbon gave me everything I wanted in a city break: good food, good energy, beautiful views, and a sense of freedom I don’t always find in every place I visit.
And even though I didn’t get to tick off everything, I’m already planning my return. That’s when you know a destination really did something for you.
Have You Been to Portugal?
Is there a city or country you visited once and knew you’d be returning to again? Let me know in the comments!
And if you’re planning a trip to Lisbon soon, subscribe to the blog and get a free travel toolkit so you never miss an update. Need help planning? Check out my Travel Resources.
Until next time,
MBVs x
