Portugal · The capital
Built across seven hills above the river Tagus, Lisbon is a city best discovered on foot and by tram. The rattling No. 28 climbs past tiled chapels and miradouros, the viewpoints where the whole city opens beneath you in a wash of terracotta and white, and we love nothing more than pointing you toward the quieter ones for sunset.
Wander the Alfama, the oldest quarter, where laundry strings between centuries-old houses and the sound of fado spills from candlelit tavernas after dark. By day, lose an hour in the grand Praca do Comercio, ride the Santa Justa lift, and trace the maritime ambition of the Age of Discovery out at Belem, where the monastery and tower still face the water.
And then there is the eating. Bifanas from a corner counter, fresh grilled sardines in summer, and, always, a pastel de nata, the custard tart Lisbon perfected, dusted with cinnamon and best enjoyed standing up. Give the city three nights at least, and let us weave in a day in Sintra while you are here.
