Welcome to Lisbon: Your intro Guide to the Charm of Portugal's Capital!

Hello fellow travelers! If you don't know Lisbon yet, here's your chance to hear a bit about this city and count in your travel bucket List.Enter Lisbon, a city steeped in history and bursting with color. Many civilizations have gone through here and Its origins date at least 2700 years old, before surviving one of history's fiercest earthquakes (9.0/10 in the richer scale), Lisbon today is decorated with tiled buildings and romantic palaces. Steep walks and breathtaking views (more than 32 lookout spots). It's a city where cable cars climb and the air brings the scent of the Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean. 

Language:

Thinking your high school Spanish will help you navigate Portuguese? Think again! Lisbon locals appreciate a bit of Portuguese, though most speak some English. We all know you won't learn a full language speaking just to communicate every time you travel, but know the basics is friendly enough to create a mutual effort to communicate better and help.1- Olá: Hello2- Por favor: Please3- Obrigado (if you're male) / Obrigada (if you're female): Thank you4- Sim: Yes5- Não: No6- Adeus: Goodbye

The Earthquake Tale:

Picture this: Lisbon, 1755. All Saints Day. Earthquake hits. Boom! Tsunami follows. Kaboom! Candles topple, fires blaze for days. Yet, from the ashes, Lisbon rises, like a phoenix with a serious makeover. Explore Alfama for a glimpse of pre-quake vibes or check out Museu Nacional do Azulejo for a blue-and-white blast from the past.

Ginjinha Galore:

Need a pick-me-up? Sip on some ginjinha—a cherry liqueur dating back to the 1800s. It is sweet and could be taken as a dessert! It's like whiskey: The older the better. You can try it from the Olddest Ginja Store in Lisbon: A Ginjinhapicture by: getLISBON

Breathtaking views! 

Get your camera ready for Lisbon's miradouros—viewpoints offering Insta-worthy panoramas. Don't miss Santa Luzia's flower-covered pergola (around spring) or the high-altitude views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. 

Fado Feels:

Experience saudade—a Portuguese word for that bittersweet ache of longing—with fado music. Tasca do Chico offers an intimate setting, but beware: talking over the music might earn you some side-eye.

Seafood Sensations:

Dive into Lisbon's seafood scene and taste Portugal's maritime history. From fish stew to barnacles (yes, barnacles!), every bite tells a salty tale of seafaring adventures.

Nature's Playground:

Escape the city hustle with a day trip to Cascais and Sintra. Cycle along Cascais' coastline or hike to Pena Palace in Sintra for killer views. Both should be between 30-45min by train away.

Pastry Paradise:

Meet the pastel de nata—a custard tart so good, it'll haunt your dreams. Head to Pastéis de Belém for the OG recipe or grab one anywhere you see an espresso machine. You can thank us later.

Tile Tales:

Obsessed with pretty tiles? You're in luck! Lisbon's azulejos are everywhere, from grand murals to quaint corners. Dive into tile heaven at Cortiço & Netos or snag a souvenir at Fábrica Sant’Anna.

River Adventures:

Take your Lisbon experience to the water with sunset cruises or a ferry ride to Cacilhas for a fresh perspective. And if you're feeling fancy, hop on a cable car ride for some sky-high views.

Good to Know:

Is Lisbon expensive? Nah, not really. Budget-friendly eats, affordable accommodations, and plenty of free viewpoints mean you can enjoy Lisbon without breaking the bank.

Best Time to Visit:

Anytime is a good time to visit Lisbon, but winter and fall offer cheaper rates and fewer crowds. Around spring it already reaches 25 Degree Celsius, so beach time for most os us! BUT, if you ask me personally I'd say JUNE! Where you can join in on the Santos Populares festivities: traditional festivity, music, food, drinks and it happens every day!

How accessible is Lisbon?

Lisbon's got you covered with walkable streets, scenic trams, and even river ferries. No car? No problem!However, keep in mind that it's a hilly city and if you have disabilities or limitations, you might want to rely on the tuk-tuks to go around the most historical and steep areas. 

Safety First:

Lisbon's as safe as a grandma's hug, but keep an eye on your stuff in crowded spots. LGBTQ+ traveler? You'll feel right at home in Lisbon's welcoming scene.

So, there you have it—your intro guide to Lisbon's quirks, charms, and everything in between. In case you want a more complete and detailed recs with spots recommendations, prices and inner pro tips, check my Ultimate Lisbon guide. As a tour leader myself and living in this city for 3 years, my life is filled with finding new places, gems and varied spots to share with you guys!Pack your sense of adventure, grab a pastel de nata (or three), and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. Lisbon's waiting for you! 🎉

There's More!

Julie Santos

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