Lisbon Travel Guide Tips For The Ultimate Vacation

Seemingly endless travel destinations make for a great vacation around the holiday season. But there’s something particularly magical about visiting European cities at this time of year and exploring the charming Christmas markets.

I had the opportunity to spend a long December weekend in Lisbon, Portugal, and got my fill of holiday cheer, delicious food and cultural enrichment. While Lisbon is the country’s capital and largest city, it exudes an authentic old-world quality that feels like walking through a storybook.

To inspire your future travels to Lisbon, I’ve compiled some favorite dishes, attractions and other highlights from the so-called City of Seven Hills.

For my inaugural trip to Lisbon, I stayed at the Sofitel, which was nicely situated on the posh Avenida da Liberdade.

The location was ideal for walking down to the Baixa and Chiado districts, which are the historic and commercial centers of the city, and over to the picturesque Alfama neighborhood. I appreciated the hotel’s excellent service and chic lobby bar, and my room was spacious and stylish.

As a major European city, Lisbon of course boasts a wide variety of hotels with different vibes. I’ve also heard great things about the Palacio Ludovice, AlmaLusa, LX Boutique Hotel, Palácio Príncipe Real, Hotel 1908, Olissippo Lapa Palace, and both the Memmo Príncipe Real and Memmo Alfama.

Naturally, I had to begin my Lisbon experience with the city’s most famous snack ― the pastel de nata. This egg custard tart is delightfully sweet and comes in a perfectly flaky pastry.

After sampling one (or two) from Manteigaria, I knew I wanted check out the legendary Pastéis de Belém where the delicacy supposedly originated in 1837, and it did not disappoint. The rich hot chocolate they served complemented the pastry well.

As my trip took place during the holiday season, the traditional Christmas cake from Confeitaria Nacional (founded in 1829) was another must-try. If you have a sweet tooth like me, you might also enjoy coffee and pastries at Pastelaria Alcôa.

Lisbon has plenty to offer on the savory side of things as well. I had a prego ― a simple but delicious Portuguese steak sandwich ― at the fittingly named O Prego. And the city’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean means the seafood is unmissable.