Lisbon | Portugal 2013

After relaxing in Albufeira, we hopped on a train and traveled across the scenic Portuguese countryside to Lisbon, Portugal’s historic and vibrant capital. This was our second visit to the city, and we were eager to revisit some of our favorite spots while discovering new delights along the way.

Lisbon immediately captured us with its stunning architecture and intricate mosaics, which aren’t just on walls but also in the sidewalks themselves—known as calçada portuguesa, these black-and-white patterned stone pavements are a centuries-old tradition that transforms the streets into open-air works of art. Wandering the city, we marveled at the blend of Gothic, Manueline, and Pombaline styles that give Lisbon its unique character, from grand churches to pastel-colored townhouses clinging to the hills.

A highlight of our visit was ascending to the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda, a neoclassical palace originally designed in the early 19th century as a royal residence. Its elegant halls, ornate ceilings, and opulent furnishings reflect Portugal’s imperial wealth during the Age of Discovery, and from its terraces, we enjoyed sweeping views of the Tagus River and the city below. The palace’s careful blend of grandeur and restrained elegance makes it one of Lisbon’s most historically significant landmarks.

Food in Lisbon is always a treat, and we indulged in several local delicacies along the way. We savored cockles, fresh from the Atlantic, as well as chicken curry and rice, a surprisingly delightful dish influenced by Portugal’s spice trade history. And, of course, we couldn’t resist the city’s delicious pastries, sweet treats that made wandering the streets even more enjoyable. Each meal felt like a celebration of the city’s rich culinary traditions.

We spent our days meandering through Lisbon’s narrow, cobbled streets, stopping at quaint cafés and bustling markets, and pausing frequently to admire the city’s views from its famous miradouros (viewpoints). Being back in Lisbon was a joy—we soaked in the vibrant culture, historic streets, and warm hospitality, and left once again enchanted by one of our favorite European cities.