Portugal Day 1
Our flight arrived at 10 a.m., and we took a taxi to our hotel in the Belém district of Lisbon. Belem Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and Pastéis de Belém are all within walking distance, making it easy to explore these iconic landmarks right after settling in. Although small, our hotel offered great value for the price. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the room was spotless and well-designed, making it comfortable for our family to share. We had a wonderful stay. You can book our hotel here.
After a delicious lunch at a seafood restaurant O Prado nearby, we walked to Belem Tower, where we enjoyed beautiful views of the Tagus River and admired its historic architecture. From there, we continued to the Monument to the Discoveries, a striking tribute to Portugal’s explorers. The monument, shaped like a ship’s prow, perfectly captured the spirit of the Age of Exploration. There was a long line waiting to get into Pastéis de Belém, so we decided to return the next morning to enjoy the famous pastéis de nata without the wait.
São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge), dating back to the 11th century, allowed us to explore its ancient walls, towers, and lush gardens. As we wandered the grounds, we were delighted to see peacocks roaming freely, their vibrant plumage adding an extra touch of beauty to the historic site. On our way up to the castle, we also passed through charming streets lined with cute shops selling everything from local crafts to souvenirs. It was the perfect spot to immerse ourselves in Lisbon's rich history while enjoying the stunning views, the charm of the birds, and the quaint shops along the way.
From the São Jorge Castle to the Sé Cathedral, Alfama, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage, featuring colorful tiled facades, red-tiled roofs, and historic buildings that have endured for centuries. Just a 5-minute walk from São Jorge Castle, you'll reach Miradouro de Santa Luzia, a beautiful viewpoint offering stunning views of the Alfama district. From here, you can admire the labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful houses, and the Tagus River stretching in the distance.
As we strolled down from the Castle of São Jorge, the city glowing beneath us, we were drawn to a cozy Fado restaurant, where we lingered over dinner, wrapped in the soulful melodies of Lisbon. Fado songs, rich with longing, love, and nostalgia, echo with emotion and tradition through haunting vocals and the gentle strum of Portuguese guitar.