Nestled along the banks of the Tagus River, Lisbon, Portugal, is a city of vibrant colours, historic charm, and culinary delights. My mum and dad often visited Lisbon in the late 60s and early 70s when they lived in Spain and needed to leave the country to renew their visas. My mum hadn’t been back to Lisbon since their time living in Spain, and as I’d never been, I thought it would be a great place to take my mum back to and explore. Join me on a whirlwind long weekend adventure as we explore the picturesque streets of Lisbon, take a train ride to Sintra, visit the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and Castelo de S. Jorge along with indulging in a culinary masterpiece at the Michelin-starred Alma restaurant.
Sintra: a Fairy-Tale Escape
Our journey begins with a short and relatively scenic train ride from Lisbon to Sintra, a town renowned for its romantic 19th-century architecture, lush gardens, and enchanting palaces. Once out of the suburbs of Lisbon, the train journey itself is a feast for the eyes as it winds through the picturesque countryside, offering glimpses of rolling hills and distant castles.
Upon arriving in Sintra, there are several ways to get to the Pena Palace: Walk (but allow plenty of time!), Bus, Taxi or tuk-tuk. Conveniently a tuk-tuk driver pulled up in front of us, for the sum of 10 Euros my mum and I hopped aboard the colourful tuk-tuk. These nimble three-wheeled vehicles are the perfect way to traverse the steep, winding roads leading to Sintra’s iconic sites.
Our tuk-tuk adventure took us to the mesmerising Pena Palace, perched high on a hill overlooking the town. Upon arriving at the entrance gates, there is then the option to walk up to the palace or take the minibus for a small fee. Once at the very top, the vibrant hues of the palace’s façade create a fairytale-like ambience, making it a must-visit attraction. After exploring the palace and its beautifully landscaped grounds, we descend back to the town…again by tuk-tuk, taking in the views of Sintra’s charming streets and pastel-coloured houses.
Sintra Tips:
1. Be sure to book the time slot for your visit online in advance. Tickets sell quickly and you’re unlikely to be able to explore the palace if you turn up on the day.
2. Allow PLENTY of time to get up to the palace. I’m usually pretty organised with my planning, but I underestimated the time to get from the train station to the palace. I’d allow at least 2 hours if you plan on getting the minibus from the palace grounds to the entrance, and this should give you buffer room if you’re not able to get transport at the train station straight away.
Lisbon’s Historical Wonders
Exploring the city’s rich history and architectural wonders, We started our day walking up to Castelo de S. Jorge. Perched on a hill, this Moorish castle offers panoramic views of the city and the river. Wandering through its narrow passages and ancient walls, you get to soak in the rich history of Lisbon. We then walked down to Praça do Comércio to have lunch before getting the train out to the historic Belém district, home to the iconic Belém Tower and the impressive Jerónimos Monastery.
We started at the UNESCO-listed Jerónimos Monastery, an architectural masterpiece that is a testament to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. The intricate Manueline architecture of the grand cloister mesmerises, with its delicate detailing depicting maritime motifs and symbols of Portugal’s exploration prowess.
Wandering through the cloisters, you’re captivated by the play of light filtering through the stone arches, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The monastery’s history unfolds through each sculpted column, telling tales of voyages, discoveries, and the country’s golden age.
Leaving the tranquillity of the monastery, we set forth towards the riverfront, where the imposing Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries) rises majestically. This iconic monument pays homage to the brave navigators and explorers who set sail during Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
As we approach, the larger-than-life figures of Henry the Navigator and other prominent explorers come into view. The wind whispers tales of maritime adventures, and the panoramic views of the Tagus River stretch out before me. The monument’s compass rose mosaic guides my gaze towards the next chapter of our journey – the timeless Belém Tower.
With the rhythmic sounds of the Tagus as our companion, we make our way along the riverbank to the formidable Belém Tower. Rising from the water like a sentinel, this medieval fortress once guarded the entrance to the city’s harbour. As you ascend its stone steps, panoramic views unfold, revealing the convergence of history and the river.
Exploring the tower’s chambers, you’re transported to an era of maritime expeditions and seafaring legends. The strategic significance of Belém Tower becomes apparent, and you can almost feel the echoes of sailors long gone.
From Michelin Star Sophistication to Local Delights
Lisbon is a city that tantalises the senses with its vibrant streets and rich history and is equally celebrated for its diverse culinary scene.
Our culinary adventure begins at Alma, a Michelin-starred gem that graces Lisbon’s dining scene. Nestled in the heart of the city, Alma, meaning “soul” in Portuguese, lives up to its name by delivering a soul-stirring dining experience. Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa’s culinary prowess takes center stage as each dish unfolds as a carefully orchestrated symphony of flavors.
The minimalist yet elegant ambience sets the stage for an evening of gastronomic indulgence. From the delicate amuse-bouche to the expertly crafted main courses, each bite at Alma is a revelation. The tasting menu showcases a fusion of traditional Portuguese ingredients with modern techniques, resulting in a culinary journey that transcends the ordinary.
For a more down-to-earth and authentic dining experience, Pinoquio in the bustling Rossio Square is a must-visit. This traditional Portuguese restaurant has been a local favourite for decades, serving up hearty portions of classic dishes that capture the essence of Lisbon’s culinary heritage.
As you step into Pinoquio, the lively atmosphere and the aroma of grilled seafood and aromatic spices immediately transport you to the heart of Lisbon. From the iconic Bacalhau à Brás (shredded salted cod with onions and potatoes) to the succulent grilled sardines, Pinoquio’s menu is a celebration of Portuguese comfort food. The friendly staff adds a personal touch to the dining experience, making you feel like part of the extended family that has been enjoying meals here for generations.
Finally, no visit to Lisbon is complete without indulging in the city’s vibrant beer & seafood culture, and Cervejaria Liberdade offers an elegant setting for such an experience. From the moment you enter Cervejaria Liberdade, the convivial atmosphere invites you to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and great company. The menu boasts an array of seafood delights, from fresh oysters to prawns and crab. Pair your chosen seafood platter with a cold pint of local craft beer, and you’ll understand why this spot is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
