Lisboa feels like a city that knows exactly who she is. Colorful, confident, and very charming.
Let’s start with something that matters deeply to me: transportation. If I’m stressed trying to figure out how to get from A to B, the trip is already off to a shaky start. Thankfully, Lisbon made it easy. The metro is simple, the trams are iconic, and everything is clearly marked. I barely had to think! That alone earns points in my book.
But honestly? You don’t even need it half the time. Lisbon is incredibly walkable. Yes, it’s hilly. very hilly. Your calves will leave stronger than they arrived. But the views at the top of those hills? Worth it every single time.
Fun fact: Lisbon is often called one of the skinniest cities in Europe. Between the steep streets, endless staircases, and daily walking, you’re basically doing a workout without scheduling one. And if you’re lucky like I was, the sun will be out, which makes those pastel-colored buildings glow. The yellows, pinks, blues, and tiled facades shine in a way that feels almost cinematic.
And the people! Portuguese hospitality is real. Warm, kind, and patient. There’s no rush, no edge, no attitude, just genuine friendliness. I had such a great experience at Honua for brunch. The staff was incredibly accommodating and welcoming. The food was fresh, colorful, and nourishing. It felt like the kind of place you stumble upon and immediately want to gatekeep but also recommend to everyone you know.
Lisbon has a vibrant energy that doesn’t overwhelm you. You feel it in the street musicians, the tiled buildings, the little cafés spilling onto sidewalks, the conversations floating through the air at golden hour.
Of course, I had to try pastéis de nata. I tried them at the Time Out Market, and then I went to Belém, which is where the original custard tart was created at Pastéis de Belém in 1837. I’ll say it plainly: the one in Belém was better. Flakier crust. Creamier center. Worth the short trip. If you’re in Lisbon, absolutely plan a half day in Belém. You’ll also find the stunning Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Belém Tower there, both UNESCO World Heritage sites that reflect Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.
Speaking of discoveries, Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Europe, even older than Rome. It survived a massive earthquake in 1755 that reshaped the city completely, which is why parts of downtown feel more geometric and structured compared to the older, winding streets of Alfama.
There were also the flea markets. So many cute vendors. Handmade jewelry, ceramics, vintage pieces, and little trinkets I absolutely did not need but deeply wanted. Pro tip: bring cash. I didn’t, and I had to walk away from a few treasures. Painful, but learn from me!
One of my favorite memories was sitting on a park bench near a flea market, orange trees towering above me, eating a pastel de nata slowly. As someone from Tennessee, greenery does something to my nervous system. It calms me instantly. Lisbon has so many little pockets of nature tucked between historic buildings. You’ll turn a corner, and suddenly there’s a shaded plaza or garden.
More fun facts:
- Lisbon is built on seven hills, which explains your step count.
- The city is famous for its azulejos, the blue and white ceramic tiles you’ll see everywhere.
- The iconic yellow trams date back to the early 20th century.
- The Vasco da Gama Bridge is one of the longest bridges in Europe.
- Fado music, a soulful Portuguese genre, was born in Lisbon. If you can, experience it live at least once.
Lisbon surprised me! It felt vibrant but relaxed. Historic but youthful. Sunny but soft. Yes, it’s hilly. Yes, you’ll walk a lot. Yes, you will eat multiple custard tarts and not regret it. But most of all, it’s easy. Easy to navigate, easy to enjoy, and easy to fall into. And honestly, sometimes that’s exactly what you need for a weekend away.
Love always,
American Girl Meets World
