Lisbon, Portugal
Last year my family and I decided to skip spending Christmas at home and head to Lisbon to experience something new and embrace our heritage. The holiday spirit was electric as we wandered through the glittering streets of Lisbon's Baixa and Rossio districts, illuminated by a symphony of lights. I will admit that spending Christmas in Portugal was odd at first but, we ended up loving it and are dying to go back.
A highlight of our journey was a day trip to Sintra, a fairytale town nestled amidst lush hills, where we marveled at the stunning Pena Palace. Roaming through Sintra's charming streets, we discovered the town's rich wine culture with a tasting at Casal Sta Maria, a picturesque vineyard that added a touch of sophistication to our family adventure. Savoring exquisite Portuguese wines amid the historic allure of Sintra created a memorable moment, complementing the festive ambiance that permeated the town.
Cascais, a coastal gem adorned with festive lights, beckoned us for a perfect day excursion from Lisbon. The seaside tranquility combined seamlessly with a touch of sophistication, allowing our family to stroll along Cascais' scenic promenade, lined with palm trees and boutique shops. The day unfolded with the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood at a Furnas do Guincho, followed by a relaxing afternoon at one of Cascais' sandy beaches. The coastal beauty and laid-back charm of Cascais provided a serene contrast to the bustling city life, creating a well-rounded experience for our family.
Returning to Lisbon, we continued our exploration with a tuktuk tour through Alfama, the oldest district, offering an intimate exploration of its winding alleys and historic Fado houses. The tuktuk wound through the narrow streets adorned with Christmas decorations, and the sounds of traditional Portuguese music echoed through the historic alleys. The juxtaposition of Lisbon's festive spirit with the rich cultural tapestry of Alfama added depth to our winter adventure, creating lasting memories for our family. Whether exploring the city's Christmas markets, sipping wine in Sintra, or enjoying the coastal beauty of Cascais, our family's winter visit to Lisbon was a unique blend of seasonal festivities and cultural discovery, fostering a deeper connection with Portugal's rich history and vibrant traditions.
Culinary Delights
Lisbon's food scene is a delectable journey through Portugal's rich culinary heritage, where traditional flavors and contemporary innovation converge to create a gastronomic paradise. The city's vibrant markets, such as Mercado da Ribeira, burst with colors and aromas, offering an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and cured meats. Lisbon's culinary identity is deeply rooted in its seafood, and a stroll through the historic district of Alfama reveals quaint eateries serving Bacalhau à Brás (salted cod), sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines), bifana (pork sandwich), and my favorite pasteis de nata. I personally love the ones from Manteigaria.
The city's gastronomic landscape is not only about traditional dishes but also a playground for modern fusion cuisine. Trendy neighborhoods like Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real are home to innovative restaurants and trendy bistros, where chefs elevate Portuguese ingredients to new heights. Lisbon's thriving food scene extends to its vibrant street food culture, where food markets like Time Out Market showcase an eclectic mix of global and local flavors.
My recommendations include: Sala de Corte, Taberna Da Rua Flores, Rocco, Bairro do Avillez, Eurico, Davvero, A. Valenciana, Catinno do Avillez, Porto Final, and Casanostra.
Oh and get drinks at Red Frog!
Cozy Accommodations
Lisbon, with its charming blend of historic allure and modern vibrancy, offers a diverse range of hotels nestled within distinctive neighborhoods. In the heart of Baixa, find elegant hotels exuding old-world charm and easy access to iconic landmarks like Praça do Comércio. The bohemian vibes of Bairro Alto boast boutique accommodations, placing you amidst lively bars and Fado clubs. Alfama, the oldest district, hosts intimate guesthouses amid narrow alleys, offering an authentic Lisbon experience. For a more upscale stay, Avenida da Liberdade boasts luxury hotels with proximity to high-end shopping. Meanwhile, Belem, known for its historic sites, features riverside hotels providing scenic views of the Tagus River. Each neighborhood unveils a unique facet of Lisbon, ensuring a tailored and memorable stay in Portugal's captivating capital. Please note wherever you stay you will not be immune from walking the hills. Lisbon is literally a city seven hills for a reason and most strolls feel like your walking a stairmaster.
My hotel recommendations include: Palacio Ludovice, Bairro Alto Hotel, The Lumaires, Memmo Principe Real, The Ivens, Browns Avenue, Montebelo Vista Alegre, and Altis Avenida.