Travel

A Week in Lisbon: History, Culture and the Sea

Day 1: Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and Pastéis de Belém
Our week in Lisbon began with a visit to the iconic Belém Tower, standing proudly at the
edge of the Tagus River. From there, we explored the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece
of Manueline architecture. Afterward, we couldn’t resist the famous pastéis de Belém from
the nearby bakery, a delicious treat that has been a part of Lisbon’s culture for centuries.

Day 2: Alfama District and the National Azulejo Museum
On our second day, we wandered through the narrow, cobblestone streets of Alfama,
Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. We stumbled upon charming cafes and stunning viewpoints
of the city. Later, we visited the National Azulejo Museum, home to stunning ceramic art.

Day 3: Modern Lisbon at LX Factory and Parc Eduardo VII
The following day, we ventured to LX Factory, a former industrial complex now
transformed into a lively hub of art galleries, cafes, and shops. In the afternoon, we relaxed
at Parc Eduardo VII, taking in panoramic views of Lisbon’s rooftops and the river below. It
was the perfect escape from the busy streets.

Day 4: Baixa and the Historic Heart of Lisbon
We spent day four exploring the Baixa district, Lisbon’s grand, neoclassical center. We
admired the stunning Praça do Comércio and visited Rua Augusta, a lively shopping street.
Afterward, we took the Santa Justa Lift for one of the best views of the city’s historic
architecture.

Day 5: Discovering the Contemporary in Belém
Another day in Belém allowed us to visit the MAAT Museum (Museum of Art, Architecture
and Technology), where we were struck by its futuristic design. We also stopped by the
Monument to the Discoveries, a tribute to the great explorers of the Age of Discoveries.

Day 6: A Day Trip to Sintra
We took a short train ride to Sintra, a town known for its enchanting palaces and castles. We
explored the Palácio da Pena, a fairy-tale castle perched on a hill, and visited the Quinta da
Regaleira, a magical estate with hidden gardens and mysterious tunnels.

Day 7: Farewell to Lisbon
On our last day, we spent our time at Parc da Nações, enjoying the modern architecture and
the tranquil waters of the Vasco da Gama Bridge. We had lunch overlooking the river before
heading back to the city center for some last-minute shopping. Lisbon’s unique blend of
history and modernity left us with memories to cherish.

Conclusion
Lisbon is a city full of contrasts, where old-world charm meets vibrant modern culture. With
its stunning views, rich history, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s a place we’ll return to time
and time again.