A day in lisbon: what to discover

This morning, we opted for the convenience of a taxi, a suggestion from the hotel clerk, as parking in town was quite limited. This choice allowed us to relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about parking. The approximate cost of this taxi ride was [insert cost here]. But finding a taxi to come back to Sintra is another story. It’s not very easy.

 

If you stay in a more central location, such as a hotel near the train station, you can take the train to the Belem Tower. The Belem Tower is a [insert brief description here]. This is a convenient and cost-effective option, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of finding parking in town.

 

As the taxi drops you off at the Belem Tower, take a moment to explore this side before passing under the tunnel to arrive on the other side. The scenic route, with its breathtaking views, will excite you and make your journey even more memorable.

What can you see on the side of Belem Tower?

-1 Belém Tower

Belem tower

The Belem Tower, Lisbon’s most iconic monument, is a testament to the city’s rich history. Its unique design, resembling a small castle from a fairy tale, is a visual delight and a symbol of the Age of Discovery. This Tower, standing proudly since the 15th and 16th centuries, is a must-see for any visitor to Lisbon. 

 

It is also protected as a World Heritage. Its unique design resembles a small castle from a fairy tale.

As the morning fog enveloped the Tower, it took on an eerie, mysterious aura. 

However, our excitement was dampened when we discovered that a strike had prevented us from exploring its interior.

After talking to people, I realized it is not worth buying a ticket to see the inside; there is nothing to see!

 

While strolling towards the Tower, we were captivated by the vibrant street vendors showcasing an array of beautiful handbags with intricate Portuguese Designs and colours. Their collection also included cork purses, wallets, bags, hats, and more, uniquely reflecting Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.

2-MAAT

If you don’t visit the art inside, you can walk around and even climb this waterfront landmark, which serves as a viewpoint overlooking 25 de Abril Bridge.

3-Discoveries Monument

This massive monument, shaped like a ship with 33 people aboard, led by Prince Henry the Navigator, offers more than just a history lesson. It also features temporary exhibitions and an elevator to the top terrace, which provides a breathtaking view of the neighbouring monuments.

What to explore the other side

While crossing the other side with the underground tunnel, you arrive in front of the Empire Square Garden in Lisbon

1—The Empire Square Garden

The Empire Square Garden in Lisbon, known as “Praça do Império,” is one of the city’s largest and most impressive squares.

It features beautiful gardens and a large central fountain.

2—Explore Alfama

 Alfama is one of Europe’s oldest neighbourhoods and the heart of Moorish Lisbon. Discover its attractions, such as the castle, viewpoints, monastery, cathedral, and fado culture. Wandering through its narrow, winding streets feels like stepping back in time.

Remember your camera.

3- Riding Tram 28

The iconic yellow tram takes you through some of Lisbon’s most scenic neighbourhoods, including Graça, Alfama, and Baixa. It was an easy way to see the city’s charming architecture. It has been going up and down the hilly street since 1892, connecting the Bairro Alto district to the waterfront. It takes just 5 minutes and carries up to 23 passengers. You have to try it.

4- Discover LX Factory

This abandoned factory complex, dating back to 1846, became one of Lisbon’s trendiest places. This creative hub in a former industrial complex is filled with street art, chic shops, and cafes—a must-visit for those looking for a modern side of Lisbon.

5- Ribeira Market

Since 1892, it has been a cornerstone of Lisbon’s culinary scene. Open from dawn to dusk, it is managed by Time Out Lisboa magazine and is a bustling hub that showcases some of the city’s most innovative dishes crafted by its top chefs.

 

Whether you’re ready for a full meal, a quick snack, or a culinary adventure, Ribeira Market covers you. With over 30 stalls featuring a tantalizing array of cuisines, including seafood delights, traditional Portuguese pastries like pastéis de nata, and international flavours, there’s something to excite every palate.

 

These stalls also sell fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, and flowers, preserving the market’s original charm and creating a unique blend of past and present.

Bars serve Portuguese wines, craft beers, cocktails, and coffee. What else to ask for !!.

6- Pink Street

The colour of the pavement in the pink street gave it its nickname, but this pedestrian street is officially Rua Nova do Carvalho on the map. It’s quite a small street, but it could be more exciting. It hosts a street party throughout the week, mixing locals and tourists who sit or stand outside the different bars. The street is pretty dark and dingy. The fun part is all the multi-coloured umbrellas.

7-Rua Augusta Arch(Triumphal Arch)

The Rua Augusta Arch, a stone memorial of profound historical significance, is a must-see for any visitor to Lisbon. This grand structure, with its six columns and statues of illustrious figures, is a testament to the city’s resilience and rebirth after the catastrophic 1755 earthquake and a stunning example of architectural beauty. It’s a place where you can’t help but feel the weight of history and the spirit of the city’s people. 

 

The Rua Augusta Arch, a significant historical landmark, is more than a stone memorial. It’s a bustling hub of activity and commerce, a significant divider between Commerce Square and Rua Augusta, the main shopping street in Baixa Chiado. With its array of stores and restaurants, it’s a vibrant street that continues to draw tourists and locals alike, underlining its importance in the city’s layout.

8-Chiado

Chiado is a neighbourhood in the historic center of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. It is an important cultural and commercial district known for its luxury shopping, historic landmarks, and numerous theatres and museums.

There are so many little streets, stores and restaurants. You can walk up and down for miles.

Note Stamp

 

While cork products are ubiquitous, it’s essential to ensure you’re purchasing an authentic Portuguese piece. 

Quality comes at a price, and though a Portuguese-made cork product is more expensive than its Chinese counterpart, it is a worthwhile investment, reflecting Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.

We chose to take a taxi, based on the hotel clerk’s advice on the city’s parking challenges. The approximate cost was [20 euros].

 

Little did we know that finding a taxi to return to the Sintra Hotel would be a different story! People were sending us here and there, and we could not find a cab.

However, the train from Sintra is a short and convenient ride, especially if you’re close to it. 

 

While we were not, we found that trains are generally accessible. It’s best to avoid peak hours for a more comfortable journey, but rest assured, the train is a reliable and convenient option.

More Destinations

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *