Looking for some unusual things to do in Lisbon? Head to the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora. It’s one of Lisbon’s grand architectural sites and still a hidden gem in Lisbon. In fact, the monastery is hidden in plain sight, sitting atop one of Graça’s highest points, not far from the Alfama district. Yet … Read more
Steeped in history, immortalized in Fado, and rising over Lisbon, Alfama is one of Lisbon’s most authentic districts. It’s really Lisbon’s premiere neighborhood — a quaint and distinctive city outside a city. With steep stairways tumbling down to Baixa below and Castelo São Jorge standing guard above, Alfama is incredibly beautiful and photogenic. It was … Read more
Looking for something a bit off the tourist trail in Lisbon? Head to the Basilica da Estrela. This grand domed church is one of Lisbon’s most impressive landmarks, yet it often flies under the radar. Perched on a hill in the Estrela neighborhood, the gleaming white Neo-Classical basilica stands proudly above the surrounding streets. Because … Read more
Here’s my guide to the top attractions and best things to do and see in Belem. Belem is an architecturally-rich suburb of Lisbon. It’s an easy mini day trip from Lisbon. It’s just southwest of the city center. Belem is Lisbon’s prime cultural district. It’s a must see for its cluster of UNESCO-listed monuments. Some … Read more
The charming and cobbled Old World cornucopia of medieval Óbidos Portugal is just an hour north of Lisbon. The dreamy UNESCO village is perched fetchingly on a hill and encircled with stout medieval walls. It’s decorated with splashes of ultramarine and saffron yellow paint and filled with bougainvilla-covered whitewashed homes a cherry pots of geraniums. … Read more
Portugal and Spain are the perfect match. Two sun-drenched countries linked by history, art, and irresistible food. This 10-day itinerary takes you from Lisbon’s hills to the Moorish splendor of Granada, with stops in charming Évora and lively Seville. Along the way you’ll uncover UNESCO landmarks, medieval lanes, and flamenco-filled nights. It’s a relaxed but … Read more
Want to step into a fairytale? Head to Quinta da Regaleira Palace in Sintra. The Gothic palace is simply breathtaking and full of mystique. It’s an easy 30 minute day trip from Lisbon, and definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area. The palace is surrounded by lush greenery, including leafy palms and hot … Read more
Exploring Lisbon? Here’s my guide to the best places to find beautiful azulejo tiles in Lisbon Portugal. I have a confession to make. I’m obsessed with Portuguese tiles. While on a geographical cure in Lisbon, I poked in and out of so many ceramic shops that I lost count. I came home with so much … Read more
“A simple spark can destroy the foundations of civilization.” — Lisbon street artist Alexandre Farto, aka Vhils One of the first things I encountered in Lisbon on my recent geographical cure was the Elevador da Glória funicular. I saw it and was gobsmacked, in spite of what I’d read forewarning me of its wonderfulness. Despite … Read more
The mere mention of Alcobaça Monastery in Portugal conjures a mini history lesson on one of Europe’s oldest and best UNESCO sites. Alcobaça is a 12th century masterpiece of Gothic Cistercian art, after all. Its vaunted architecture and history make it a must see site on a tour of Portugal. But that’s the topic of … Read more