Lisbon, Portugal
This is a Destination page. In Destination pages we collect information about the places we visit or will visit. They are always a work in a progress, and keep getting updated when we run into something interesting or useful about the destination.
We recommend
Bairro Alto Restaurants, bars, streets filled with people. Especially on Friday and Saturday nights. We were there a bit early and wondered, is this it? But the streets do get crowded (around 11pm) and the atmosphere is worth experiencing. There are no destrictions about drinking on the street, so you can buy a drink from any of the bars around and just join the crowds on the streets. The drinks are cheap, about 2€ for cocktails, although these might not be the top quality. (Up-to-date information, in Portuguese, at ilovebairroalto.com)
Refrescos small kiosks on plazas, serving local refreshments. Great for people watching and hanging out. Glass (or plactic mug) of wine costs about 1,3€.
Vinho Verde Local white wine, with some sparkles. Delicious.
Sintra Although technically not in Lisbon, it's only 40 minutes train ride away. With it's fairytale castles, charming village, and enchanting walks it attracts plenty of tourists, but for a reason. Do no miss!
Belém a district filled with monuments, including the Belem Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, etc. Nice place to walk around. The Centro Cultural de Belém houses a collection of contemporary art (the Berardo Museum, free!) and different cultural events. The Museum was excellent!
On our list
Alfama the oldest district of the city, maze of medieval streets. On top of the district there is the millenium-old Castle of St. George.
Dinner at a Fado restaurant Fado is traditional Portuguese music, played in many restaurants, especially during weekends. Haven't picked out the one to go yet.
Lisbon Botanical Gardens (Jardim Botanico), for a picnic on a nice day.
Lisbon Oceanarium one of the biggest in the world. Mirje is big fun of good aquariums, so this is a must. Open 10-20(summer)/19(winter). Tickets 16€. (as of 25.10.2013) It's at Parque das Nacoes, the site of the World Expo of 1998, so there's plenty of other things to see also.
Bike trip to Guincho Taking train to Cascais, renting a bike at BiCa bike kiosk and riding to the Guincho beach. This was recommended to us as a stunning ride.
What you should know
In restaurants, they usually bring some starters to you, like olives, bread, etc. These are not free! If you don't want them, just give them back or put them aside.
More information
Wikivoyage and Wikitravel Lisbon sites
Lisbon Lux "The essential Lisbon Guide - Contemporary and Eternal Lisbon"
Go Lisbon Tourism Guide "Discovering the City of the Sea, the City of Explorers"
Inspiration and tips from other bloggers
The Best of Lisbon - 10 things you shouldn't miss in the Barefoot Nomad
Runaway to Sister's City - Lisbon Portugal in Runaway Juno
48 Hours in Lisbon - in Search of Coffee, Tiles and Sun in Gadling
What not to do in Lisbon in BootsnAll