Discover Lisbon: A Travel Guide with ESD
the esd journal
Discover Lisbon
Lisbon has always been one of my favorite cities to visit, and one I find myself returning to again and again. Between its beautiful architecture, rich history, decorative arts, and incredible food, there is no shortage of inspiration. I love discovering new places with each visit, while making time for the old favorites that keep drawing me back.
I've put together a collection of some of my favorite spots, from historic landmarks and museums to neighborhood restaurants, antique shops, and a few hidden gems. A little glimpse into the Lisbon I know and love.
Must-Visit in Lisbon
There are many key locations and historical buildings, but these museums and palaces stood out to me as places to return to.
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
Ceiling of Quinta Da Regaleira
Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian’s life’s work is displayed in an impressive series of galleries. An extraordinary collection of art, furniture, and decorative objects which span centuries, the museum features pieces that reflect Gulbenkian’s love for beauty and history. Equally as inspiring is the building which holds the collection. This Mid-Century Modern showcase of Portuguese architecture was commissioned as part of a limited competition in 1959 and was completed in 1969.
National Palace of Queluz
This exquisite 18th-century royal palace just outside Lisbon is lovingly referred to as the Portuguese Versailles. Known for its Rococo interiors, ornate architectural details, and beautifully landscaped formal gardens, this palace is so much more than its filigreed exterior and interior; it holds an amazing and complex history.
Quinta da Regaleira — Sintra
Located in Sintra – known as “one of the first cradles of romantic architecture in Europe” – Quinta da Regaleira is an enchanting early 20th-century estate nestled in a fairytale landscape with breathtaking elaborate gardens, hidden passageways, and the iconic Initiation Well. Indulge in this area’s remarkable blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline influences.
Bronzes Sao Bento
Cafe Sao Bento
Pasteis de Belem
Places to Stay in Lisbon
Your Lisbon experience is not complete without staying in a hotel that embraces the area’s aesthetics and history.
Verride Palácio Santa Catarina
An intimate “luminous refuge” found alongside the Tagus River, the Verride Palácio Santa Catarina is an ideal delve into Portuguese history. This 18-room boutique hotel is housed in a beautifully restored palace and features ornate ceilings, historic Portuguese tiles, understated contemporary furnishings, and sweeping views.
Palácio Príncipe Real
In the center of Lisbon’s Príncipe Real sits the Palácio. A beautifully restored 19th-century palace turned boutique hotel, you’ll enjoy a customized experience in a haven of relaxation.
The Vintage Lisbon, Photo Sourced from www.thevintagelisbon.com
The Vintage Lisbon — Avenida da Liberdade
Advertised as a hotel “where one-off art & design can be found in every corner”, The Vintage is a stylish boutique hotel with a distinctly mid-century flair. Rich colors, vintage furnishings, and thoughtfully curated details create a warm, residential atmosphere. If you’re looking for a chic and relaxed alternative to Lisbon's grand palace hotels, this is the place for you.
Where to Shop in Lisbon
At the top of our list for Lisbon shopping experience are the antique shops of São Bento. Lisbon is home to a variety of antique, vintage, and charity shops and the charming streets of São Bento are a great place to start. Here you’ll find antique dealers, flea markets, decorative arts, and beautiful architectural details for an afternoon of discovery.
Bronzes São Bento
A specialty shop celebrating traditional Portuguese craftsmanship, with an assortment of decorative bronze objects and architectural hardware.
Some Great Places to Eat & Drink in Lisbon
Venture outside your hotel’s bars and restaurants for authentic Portuguese cocktails, wines, and cuisine. Food is one of the best ways to truly get a feel for a culture and people and these favorites are exactly where you should start.
Café de São Bento
For more than 40 years Café de São Bento has been creating delightful dining experiences and cooking “the best steak in Lisbon”. The traditional Portuguese hospitality is felt in every part of this beautiful restaurant with richly layered interiors and an old-world feel.
Outro Tempo — Praça das Flores
BYTHEWINE
Recently reinvented, the Outro Tempo bar originally opened in 1988 serving steaks until 2 am. Today, you can find a lovely lunch here in the Praça das Flores area of Lisbon. This is definitely a neighborhood favorite and a perfect excuse to explore the surrounding streets.
Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel — Bairro Alto
Catch an elegant wine bar experience in the very palace of the Port Wine Institute. Tucked inside a beautifully restored 18th-century palace, you’ll be surrounded by original architectural details, vaulted brick ceilings, and a sophisticated atmosphere while you imbibe some of Portugal’s most iconic and delicious wines.
By The Wine — Chiado
For a more relaxed and cosmopolitan experience, By The Wine cannot be beat. Lively yet still sophisticated, this wine bar is known for its dramatic vaulted ceilings lined with thousands of wine bottles and an extensive selection of Portuguese wines and delicious small plates. This is the perfect stop for refreshments after a day of museums.
Portuguese Snack: Pastel de Nata
Do not miss Portugal’s most traditional delicacy—the Pastel de Nata. This mix of flaky pastry and creamy, egg-based filling, has hints of cinnamon and lemon for a tasty, bite-sized treat that feels fit for kings and queens. Manteigaria still reigns supreme as a wonderful stop when wandering through Chiado where you can find these pastries warm and ready.
Travel
While this is not, by any means, complete, I hope these recommendations have piqued your interest in the beautiful Lisbon landscape of history, art, and food. The experiences here are some of the most romantic and inspiring, making Lisbon a fantastic place to celebrate or explore solo.
Top Photo Credits:
Elaine Santos
Outro Tempo Bar, Lisbon, Portugal