tag along on the journey
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and a beautiful city stretching along the river Tajo. The different districts certainly make the city unique; a steel elevator from 1902 builds a connection between two. You can still catch a ride on the Santa Justa lift moving between Baixa and Chiado and Bairro Alto. I didn’t get onto the elevator, because there is a long queue throughout the day. If you decide to go for it, your reward will be a beautiful viewpoint over the city. However, if you are on a time crunch consider walking up to Chiado. You can get pretty close to the viewpoint of the Elevator.
Chiado & Bairro Alto - Culture and Night Life
Whichever way you decide to take to reach Chiado, art, culture, and more shops and cafés greet you. Between the years 1520 and 1590, the poet António Ribeiro lived in this quarter, which was a hub for writers and artists in the 20th century. Visit the oldest since 1732 run book shop in the world. You can find Livraria Bertrand on Rua Garrett.
You will surely come upon Carmo Church, or what is left of it. Due to the 1755 earthquakes that rattled Lisbon, many buildings were destroyed, one of them being the Carmo Convent. The walls and arches are left, through which sunlight streams in during the day. You will also be able to visit the archeology museum, where the main altar once was.
Check out Bairro Alto to experience the city at night, where multiple bars and restaurants invite you. In the cobblestone streets, you can enjoy the evening with residents and dwell in the sounds of Fado (Portuguese music).
Baixa - City Center
Between the two big Plazas Rossio in the city center and Praça do Comércio right on the riverbed, lies Baixa. Besides the Santa Justa lift, you can find many souvenirs and clothing stores, as well as restaurants. Join other tourists and residents strolling through the streets and enjoy the flair of the city. Wave to the passengers on the cable cars that make their way through the streets and consider taking a ride.
At the Praça do Comércio you can admire the Arco da Rua Augusta, which connects the main pedestrian walkway with the big square. Watch tourists take selfies, grab an E-scooter and enjoy the cool breeze from the water. Beware of your valueables, because pickpockets are lingering around, waiting for distracted tourists.
Alfama - The old city
Explore the many alleys and steep stairways of Alfama, and let the ambiance soak in. Like I mentioned before Lisbon barely survived the earthquakes of 1755. The district of Alfama was the one that was the least affected and therefore invites you on a time travel. Saunter along the narrow paths winding their ways through the old buildings, adorned with potted plants. Pass by small chapels, and linger at one of the plazas.
Catch a ride on a cable car that takes the scenic route passed the cathedral and all through Alfama. Get on E28 at Martim Moniz; you probably have to stand in line and might miss out on the opportunity of getting a seat. I was able to catch a ride and even find a seat. I recommend it, as it showcased the city from another angle.
Visit the flea market behind the Nationale Pantheon on Tuesdays and Saturday, and mingle with both residents and tourists. Join others around the plaza, discover a small treasure to take back home and enjoy a drink at one of the surrounding cafés.
LxFactory - Artist Hub
Outside of the city, at the foot of the bridge “Ponte 25 de Abril, you can find the LxFactory (http://lxfactory.com/en/homepage-en/). Imagine an artistic hub, which features stores, restaurants, and bars, all centered around a hippy-chic vibe. When you enter, you truly feel like you’re in a little borough that dedicates itself to all forms of art. Decorated with designs, from spray paint murals to steel constructions. Shop from unique accessories and fashionable outfits to exclusive furniture pieces and explore the many vendors.
I recommend you check out “Ler Devagar” which combines a book shop, library, and exhibition that features an old book press. You can explore this rare diamond on different levels and even lay back in their adjoined café. And when you are through with getting your fill of artistic vibe, check out the waterfront and admire the beautiful bridge (the Golden Gate Bridge).
If you are interested in Lisbon and want to know about day trips outside of Lisbon or would like an insight into some restaurants offering vegn dishes, check out my other posts.
