3 days in Lisbon, Portugal: A Captivating Blend of Tradition and Trend
Monday, April 08, 2024
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Lisbon
Morning – The Great Pastel de Nata Faceoff: Start your Lisbon adventure at Manteigaria, a must-visit for Pastel de Nata enthusiasts. Their version of this creamy, flaky pastry sets the bar high. As you savour each bite, plan your comparison with tomorrow’s taste test in Belém.
Midday – The Charms of Lisbon’s Streets: Capture the essence of Lisbon through your lens by photographing the iconic yellow tram on R. da Bica de Duarte Belo, a symbol of the city’s heritage. Then, make your way to the vibrant Pink Street, known for its unique color and lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for some colorful snapshots.
Afternoon – Time Out Market and Traditional Flavors: For lunch, head to Time Out Market. This bustling food hall brings together some of Lisbon’s most delicious fare under one roof.
Be sure to also try the Pastel de Bacalhau, a savoury codfish cake that’s a staple of Portuguese cuisine.
Evening – Barrio Alto & Alfama District: Later in the day wander through the historic Alfama district, where the narrow streets and Fado music fill the air. Stop at Miradouro de Santa Luzia to enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the old part of the city.
As the evening sets in, explore Barrio Alto, a neighbourhood known for its bohemian vibe and lively nightlife.
Day 2: Belém’s Historical Splendor and LX Factory’s Urban Cool
Morning – Belém and Its Legendary Tarts: Begin your day in Belém, where you'll continue your Pastel de Nata taste test at the famous Pastéis de Belém. After indulging in these sweet treats, visit the nearby Belém Tower and the grandiose Jerónimos Monastery, marveling at their Manueline architecture.
Afternoon – Contemporary Wonders: Next, explore the MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology. This striking building is as fascinating for its architecture as for the exhibitions it hosts. Later head to the trendy LX Factory. This former industrial complex is now a vibrant space filled with restaurants, shops, and art.
Evening – Spicy Delights at Chickinho: While at LX Factory check the menu at Chickinho. Their Piri Piri Chicken is a must-try, offering a flavourful kick to conclude your culinary exploration of Lisbon.
Day 3: Day trip to Sintra
No visit to Lisbon is complete without a day trip to Sintra. The journey to Sintra is as easy as hopping on a train at Lisbon's Rossio Station and within 40 minutes you will find yourself in a place worthy of fairytales.
While in Sintra, you must visit the Pena Palace, that greets visitors with a kaleidoscope of colours and architectural gems.
As your day trip nears its end, stroll through the historical center of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to savour local pastries like the famed 'travesseiros' at Piriquita, a bakery known for its sweet treats since the 19th century.
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