Travel Guide: Lisbon

Last month we visited the city of Lisbon for one final slice of summer. The Portuguese capital has been on our bucket list for a while now and it was great to finally get away after a very busy few months! Lisbon is one of Europe’s oldest cities, so while picturesque cobbled streets and ancient architecture are never too far away, we also found a forward thinking community of artists, makers and small business owners that give the city an amazing creative buzz. Here are our top tips for Lisbon;

The Old Town

We were staying in an Airbnb in between the areas of Alfarma and Graca, Alfarma is the oldest district in Lisbon and a great place for a morning wander, think narrow cobblestoned alleyways and quaint local cafés and grocery shops. Graca is situated on Lisbons highest point so you can expect incredible views. Similar to Alfarma this is an authentic Portuguese neighbourhood, however there is also a vibrant creative community here, so you’ll find street art, galleries and contemporary bars alongside the more traditional shops and restaurants.

Portugal’s battered economy is bouncing back from the Eurozone crisis and Lisbon is leading the way: renovating rundown areas, supporting local businesses and attracting entrepreneurship. It’s a forward-looking mentality that is allowing creativity to flourish

Suitcase Magazine

Time Out Market

Lisbon’s Mercado da Ribeira is a must-visit for food, drink and culture. The market has been running here since the 1890s but in 2014 turned into Time out’s very first curated market. All the stands here have been tasted and tested by a team of experts so you know it’s going to be tasty. We had the best strawberry ice cream and also tried Portuguese custard tarts or ‘Pastel de nata’ a local delicacy which did not disappoint.

Casa Independente

The coolest place to hang out in all of Lisbon. We discovered this hidden gem through my brother who has lived in Portugal for the last few years (See Tom’s wall mural inside the casa below). Originally a Manor House dating back to 1863, the space has now been turned into a place of culture that hosts live music, exhibitions, artistic residencies and more. We spent most of our time in the Tropical Tasca where they serve meals, snacks and drinks.

Tom Leamon Wall Mural at the Casa Independente

Sintra

Only a 40 minute train journey away, Sintra is an enchanted town in the hills between Lisbon and the Atlantic, this was such a fun day-trip and if I’m honest we could of spent longer here. Home to the castles and palaces of past Moorish and Portuguese royalty and wealthy, we visited the Quinta da Regaleira a magnificent estate and heart of the town. The palace is magnificent but the garden is the real treasure, featuring lakes, fountains, grottoes and hidden caves and connecting tunnels.

Sintra, @theprettycities