Lisbon, Portugal
Basic info:
Currency: Euros
Language:
Portuguese. Don't worry if you don't speak Portuguese because a lot of people speak English in this city, especially in hotels and restaurants.
Best time to go:
September, October, May and early June. I've also been in early December and it was still a great experience. At times I even found myself taking off my thicker coat when in the sun.
Lodging
Airbnb Rec
Went in June during high season and paid $173/night for 3 people
Hostel Recs
To this this day this hostel is my absolute favorite and for these two reasons: All-inclusive option and the friendly environment. When you book with them, breakfast is included which was delicious! They added an option for all-inclusive where you can also get lunch and dinner. This is a great way to save money so you don't need to buy 3 meals a day. Simply just let them know by a certain time if you plan on eating there and they will buy enough ingredients to feed everyone. The basic booking gets you 1 free hour of beer/sangria during their "power hour" but all-inclusive you get free beer/sangria during the bar hours (They also offer cocktails which are an additional cost) . This is a great way to save money and also socialize. Which brings me to their friendly environment. The common spaces are small and intimate, making it very easy to meet people. If you are a solo traveler, or maybe you came with a friend/group but like to meet others- this is the place for you!
Rate: 12/10
On the other side of town is my second recommendation: LX Hostel
Walking: 1 hour
Bus:
From my one experience this was not the most social hostel. This one is ideal for the traveler who may want to keep to themselves or already have company. What I liked about this hostel was that it was located in an industrial complex that has a variety of artsy retail shops and unique restaurants. It's not very big, just one long-ish street but the environment is very nice. The breakfast at this place was pretty basic, not bad but I had better. They did offer homemade vegan pastel de natas. Pastel de nata? I'll explain more under "Where to eat".
Rate: 8/10
Neighborhoods
LX factory:
Here you find trendier restaurants that vary from Argentinian food to Japanese to Mexican. There are also a few concept stores, ideal for buying gifts. There was also a space where local artists sell and showcase their work. Nor for the super budget traveler, this is where you will splurge more on eating out.
Barrio Alto:
Alfama:
Cais do Sodré:
Mouraria:
Baixa:
Where to eat
Ok, so hear me out. Indian food. Yes I know this is Portugal and I will 100% recommend some places to try traditional Portuguese food, don't worry!
I loved the Turkish eggs!!
What to see
Activities
4-hour Sunset Tour
Ticket includes 1 free alcoholic drink + complimentary champagne when boarding. Food like burgers and hotdogs available for purchase.
This tour started out with everyone as strangers and then a good hour in that all changed with everyone dancing all night long. The DJ was great! You get amazing views of the city! Highly recommend doing this.
Price: $ €
Day trip to Sintra
1 hour away from the city
Where we ate:
The home for unique & authentic travel
