Have you ever wondered what travel agents do when they visit a city? We’ve teamed up with Evaneos to bring you their agents’ top tips and recommendations so you can experience a Lisbon like a local.
From what to eat, where to explore, and who to meet, our top 7 things to do in Lisbon is the ultimate bucket-list when visiting the city! Take a look at Evaneos agent Tiago's hand-picked recommendations.
1. Taste the Famous Pastel de Nata
You have to taste the quintessentially Portuguese Pastel de Nata (custard tart) and try to find the most famous version, the Pastel de Belém. The Pastel de Nata is a local treat and can be found in most pastry shops and bakeries in Lisbon and tastes best when eaten warm. However the ‘ultimate Pastel de Nata experience’ is undoubtedly eating the Pastel de Belém in the famous quarter of Belém. The challenge is to eat only one!
Try your hand at making this delicious treat at a Pastel de Nata Cooking Class in a Lisbon Pastry Shop with our amazing local host Filipa!
2. Listen to Fado
You definitely have to listen to some Fado in a traditional restaurant in Lisbon. Fado literally means ‘fate’ and is a song that normally speaks exactly of that: destiny, sorrow, and unrequited love. Sometimes it can also be more cheerful, playful, and even mocking. Close your eyes and, even if you don’t understand the lyrics, let yourself feel the emotion of the Fado singer and be amazed by the exquisite sound of the Portuguese guitar.
3. Have a Homemade Portuguese Dinner
Don’t miss having a 100% homemade Portuguese dinner at Zé Esteves’s home. Zé Esteves is not only an amazing cook, but an incredible host. He is passionate about passing on his knowledge and sharing secrets behind his favorite Portuguese dishes. Book this Bespoke Portugese Cooking Class and Dinner and enjoy the most authentic and regional cuisine!
4. Visit the Jeronimos Monastery
No trip to Lisbon is complete without visiting the cloister of the Jerónimos Monastery. The Monastery of Jerónimos is arguably the most impressive monument in Lisbon. Built in the early 1500s, it’s a perfect example of Manueline architecture that combines the flamboyant late Gothic style with elements and motifs of the ocean and of the Portuguese Navigations.
This architectural style can only be found in Portugal, and the Jerónimos Monastery and its intricate cloister is an experience that one simply cannot miss when visiting Lisbon.
5. Explore the Alfama quarter
Alfama is a neighborhood of Moorish (Muslim) origin and it truly feels like a village inside a city. The narrow, winding streets, the alleys, the stairs that seem to lead nowhere…they’re all part of the charm of one of the oldest parts of Lisbon.
And if you choose to visit in June, you can take part in the local festivities and try grilled sardines or flame-cooked chouriço (smoked sausage) at one of the resident’s stalls that pop up especially for this season
6. Surf or Sunbathe in Cascais
The Cascais coast is renowned for its beautiful beaches that are perfect for surfing or sunbathing. Because of its geography, geology, and exposure, the coast is rich in landscapes and different types of beaches: sandy, rocky, hidden away, long, narrow, calm, or wild.
Only 20 minutes from Lisbon, it is the perfect little getaway. If you’re a surfer, you might want to consider moving to Lisbon because there’s always at least one beach with perfect waves!
7. Try Bulhão Pato Clams
If you’re a seafood lover (or even if you’re not!) this is a must-eat in Portugal, and particularly in Lisbon. Choose one of the many coastal or riverfront restaurants in or around Lisbon and allow yourself to indulge in one of the best gastronomic experiences you’ll ever have.
If you prefer something a little more intimate and interactive, you can also try these special clams at a Tasty Portuguese Dinner Degustation with local chef Mateus. This dining experience is a real immersion into the Lisbon culture!
And of course, don’t forget to learn the most important phrase in Portuguese: Bom apetite!
Want to discover more local city guides? Make sure you check out Eatwith. Browse over 5,000 dining experiences, from dinners, lunches and brunches, to cooking classes and food tours in hundreds of countries around the world.
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