If you are still uncertain about your next destination for the summer season and are looking for a city that encompasses fashion, luxury, fun, and culture, consider Lisbon your must-visit place.
Besides being the city that captivates locals and tourists with its beautiful ‘azulejos’, it’s delicious ‘pastéis de nata’ and the traditional Fado music, Lisbon has a wide offer of luxury and high-end fashion places to spend a unique weekend getaway in Portugal’s capital.
If you are a fan of looking around different stores instead of heading straight to a specific one, Avenida da Liberdade is the place for you. It was built during the second half of the 1800s, aiming to be similar to L’Avenue des Champs-Elysées in Paris. Today, it is the avenue where Lisbon’s most luxurious hotels, shops and fashion labels are located. As a result, it is possible to find brands such as Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Prada, Cartier, and Versace. If you need a break from shopping, you can sit for a cup of coffee in one of its beautiful cafés and bakeries.
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Although it is known for being the ‘City of Seven Hills’, which can make it tricky when going from one place to another, the best way to get to know Lisbon is by walking. It is a city that can only be enjoyed on foot, which allows you to get lost in its traditional streets from Bairro Alto, Alfama, Chiado, Baixa, and Bélem to truly appreciate the wonderful house façades, the hidden terraces with breathtaking views of the city, and the precious crafts that serve as the perfect souvenirs.
In fact, you can find the world’s oldest bookstore in the Chiado neighbourhood: Livraria Bertrand, founded in 1732. You can explore several literary genres and books in different languages, although most of them are in Portuguese. Tip: when buying a book there, ask the staff for the stamp that states it was purchased at the world’s oldest bookstore.
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Another must-do involves taking a boat trip along the Tagus River. By renting a yacht, catamaran, or sailboat, you will get to live the unforgettable experience of enjoying Lisbon differently, especially if you take the boat at sunset with the company of friends or family and toast with a glass of champagne or Portugal’s ‘vinho verde’ (green wine).
Additionally, save some time by visiting the Bélem Tower and enjoy peaceful walking around the area while trying seafood specialities. Also, it is a must to taste the popular ‘Pastéis de Bélem’ from the namesake bakery pastry shop.
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For the nightlife, Lisbon is well-known for having unique places to dance the night away. If you prefer more of a cultural, local, and vibrant spot to enjoy the night at small bars, Bairro Alto is the neighbourhood for you. However, for a more sophisticated night out in Portugal’s capital, the Santo Amaro dock is your go-to. You will find a large group of warehouses that have become stylish and trendy clubs.
If you have time to spend outside of Lisbon, do not lose the chance to visit the fishing town of Cascais, which has astonishing views of the bay and its yacht harbour. Also, it is worth going on a day trip to Sintra to visit the colourful Pena Palace, which is on top of a hill and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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