Bom Dia Lisbon!
Hubby and I went on another little road trip to Lisbon for a couple of days. I had been to Lisbon many years ago but didn’t have enough time to explore it. So we thought since we are spending all summer in Portugal, we wanted a little trip to the city.
Lisbon is absolutely breathtaking - I’m in love with the architecture and originality of the restaurants, decors and shops.
“Lisbon is absolutely breathtaking and I’m in love with the architecture”
When we arrived we checked into our little hotel in the Chiado area which is a fantastic location just minutes walk away from the best shopping streets, restaurants and the sea. The Dear Lisbon Hotel Group has several places in the city and I booked into Dear Lisbon - Palace Chiado.
Our room was very spacious and so charming. We had a very big delicious breakfast included. This place felt so much like a private home that my husband forgot to close the door when he went out. Be aware that there is no room service at night and check-in closes after 5pm but you get all the instructions and door code by email.
When in Lisbon, you need to hop on one of the tuk tuk you see in all the streets. We did a 30-min city tour through the prettiest streets and went to the top of the old town with the most amazing view.
If you want to get a feel for the city and its beauty, it really is a must. The open buses are great too for a city tour !
“hop on one of the tuk tuk you see in all the streets”
A lunch stop at JNCQUOI (Je ne sais quoi) on Avenida de Liberdad is fun. I wouldn’t say it’s the best food in the world but the little terrace outside is beautiful and the restaurant inside is a concept store with amazing decor. It’s a hype place where you can find a La Durée corner, great coffee table books and the most exquisite wines. It’s even just fun to stop for a coffee when walking through the beautiful Avenida de Liberdad which is a must.
I ran into the most stunning flower shop in the world. Flowers, vases, and more flowers... I was in heaven. So many shops have this vibe and the mix of fashion with deco at the same time which I love.
On our second day we booked into another hotel which I highly recommend. Verride Palacio is a bit more on the expensive side but OMG it ticks all my boxes. It’s also in the Chiado area and has a wonderful seaview.
A real gem with a roof top bar, tiny pool and the most stunning and comfortable rooms.
The staff is more then kind and service is outstanding. I seriously have not one negative comment to say about this place, it felt so great to stay there that we extended our stay and went back for two nights after a little stop in Sintra.
Our view from the shower and bath was so stunning. On the picture below I’m literally taking a shower...
The amenities are from Aesop so here we go and this place has the most amazing towels, bedding, slippers and attentions to little details. The service is outstanding and the staff makes sure everything is impeccably clean with the new Covid regulations. We were really taken care of and felt so safe.
Every room has a different decor and if you want to really spend a little extra, the suites are just stunning and all very different.
There is also a cute little mini pool (no transats though so really just to take a dip) and breakfast terrace. Breakfast is delicious and like a different three course menu every day.
We wanted to have a chill dinner at the hotel and opted for a snack at the roof top but then decided to eat at the fine dining restaurant below with the stunning sea-view. It’s been the best culinary experience since a long time. The chef is extremely talented and uses the finest produces from all over the country. Since we extended our stay we ate a second time there.
When in Lisbon bare in mind to leave your Manolos at home and pack comfortable sneakers. The streets are not made for heels and it’s so much fun exploring by foot, hopping on the tuk tuk’s and the little city trains.
“When in Lisbon bare in mind to leave your Manolos at home”
Some fun places to eat snd explore below ! Share with me all the good places you know in the city because I know I’ll be back again soon.
Restaurants
Cervejaria Ramiro: A typical Lisbon beer house with the best seafood in town !
Papáçorda: This is one of the references in the last decades.
Solar dos Presuntos: Typical Portuguese food. It’s crowded so during Covid more convenient and the food is amazing.
Restaurant Gambrinus: Feels like in the 70’s out of an old mafia movie. High quality and wonderful food.
Go visit the concept shop as well called Embaixada. The architecture is so beautiful inside and you can find a couple of cute shops in there and a café. I bought a beautiful coral neckless from there.
Museums
I didn’t have time to do the Oceanarium but I heard it is a unique experience so next time for sure. Just opposite Verride Pacio hotel is the museum of Pharmacy & Medicine with a fun café in front. It’s worthwhile just crossing over to visit.
Pic of me in front of Verride Palacio
When you leave or arrive by car or even if you don’t have to....DO cross the bridge Vasco da Gama...it’s the biggest bridge of Europe and I was lucky to get my hubby to take it at sunrise.
Lisbon you have been amazing ! When I visit a city and start imagining that I could move and live there... it’s a winner.