I LOVE Portugal, the weather, the people and all of the beautiful architecture! There is a sense of nostalgia for me as well because It reminds me of my grandparents and the summers I used to spend here. Lisbon even reminds me a little of my current city San Francisco. They even have their own "golden gate bridge"! Im not going to lie, it might have had a little to do with why I moved to CA in the first place! ;)
After coming to Lisbon for years, its been exciting to see it change and evolve. The foodie community is booming, as is tourism! I was only in Lisbon for a couple of days this past trip, but was able to do quite a lot. I've been receiving more and more requests to share the spots I love, so I put together a round up of some of my favorites here on the blog.
Praça do Comércio: Praca do Comercio, Lisbon, Portugal
This is the most popular square in Lisbon, its pretty touristy but a great place to start. You will be in the heart of downtown! You can get to all the major neighborhoods from this point and houses my favorite museum MUDE, the design and fashion museum. Which has a lovely permanent collection of modern contemporary design and a couple of great seasonal shows throughout the year.
TIME OUT LISBOA: Av. 24 de Julho 49, Lisboa. Portugal
This is one of my favorite new spots in the city, a cafeteria style market that gives you a little taste of everything. Definitely check out Santini it is a city staple, and has the best gelato I've ever tasted. The back wall of the market is full of restaurants owned by famous chefs in the area, and always has delicious food.
A VIDA PORTUGUESA : R. Anchieta 11, 1200-023 Lisboa, Portugal
I think I might have gone into this store 6 different times, I loved it so much! Everything in the store is made in Portugal and is curated so well. They have small gift items that would be perfect to bring back home with you, as well as gorgeous home goods. There are a couple locations in the city, but I went to the one in Chiado. It is right above Baixa, a small neighborhood on top of the hill that has excellent shopping and restaurants. Other recommendations: Burel Factory, Vista Alegre and Cantinho do Avillez.
FIERA DA LADRA: Campo de Santa Clara, Lisboa, Portugal
Fiera Da Ladra literally translates to the thieves market. You can find anything and everything, old and new! I have been coming to this flea market since I was in high school. I love to shop for affordable vintage goods, so this place is the ultimate flea market for me. Fiera De Ladra is not for the faint of heart, expect to have to do a bit of hunting. Check it out every Tuesday and Saturday from 6am-5pm.
JARDIM BOTANICO TROPICAL : Largo dos Jerónimos, 1400-209 Lisboa, Portugal
Jardim Botanico Tropical is in Belem, this area is enriched with so much culture. Built in 1906 this garden has some of the rarest plants in the world. With over 400 species, it is a great place for a relaxing afternoon. If you have the time you can easily spend a whole day in Belem, it's a beautiful neighborhood that you shouldn't miss!
