Sites, Bites & Sips: Lisbon

Lisbon is like that effortlessly cool friend who never tries too hard yet always has the best stories, the best snacks, and a view you didn’t know you needed. It’s perched on seven hills (great for the calves, questionable for high heels) and filled with buildings that look like they were dipped in sunshine or created by one of Europe’s great tile masters. Portugal’s sun-drenched capital seamlessly blends history, artistry, culture, and modernity, making it one of Europe’s most captivating destinations.

Why visit? This enviable climate offers sun-kissed days over 300 days of the year with mild winters and warm summers makes it an ideal year-round destination with lively streets and beautiful scenery. Stroll along the picturesque Avenida da Liberdade, relax at a café in Praça do Comércio, or enjoy a sunset by the Tagus River. Wander further to explore the Belém Tower, the atmosphere is a beautiful fusion of old-world charm and contemporary vibrancy, where centuries-old traditions meet cutting-edge innovation.

And the culinary scene? Amazing! The flavors of Lisbon are deeply rooted in the ocean, with fresh fish and seafood dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) gracing menus across the city. Craving something sweet? How about a flaky pastel de nata, warm, sprinkled with cinnamon where local bakeries vie for the title of best in the city. For a taste of what’s local, sip on ginjinha, a local cherry liqueur sometimes sold by Ginjinha Grandmas with impromptu bar set ups outside their doorways or in the evening, pop into a local café for a glass of Portugal’s under the radar wine, vino verde, and listen to the ancient rhythm of Fado music in the Alfama district.

With its welcoming atmosphere, Instagram worthy backdrops and old-world charm with just the right dash of modern cool, Lisbon is the kind of city where you’ll think, “I’ll just wander for an hour,” and suddenly it’s midnight and already plotting your return.

Site: Fado Performance

Bite: Pastel de Nata

Sip: Ginjinha