48 Horas en Lisboa

Enamorandose de Lisboa

Hay algo en Lisboa that captures your heart instantly—la luz dorada que bana los techos de terracotta, the melancholic strains of fado drifting from hidden tavernas, los edificios de colores pastel climbing impossible hills. Esta es una ciudad that begs to be explored slowly, pero hasta 48 horas are enough to fall completely under its spell.

He visitado Lisboa mas veces de las que puedo contar, and each time I discover something new. Pero si solo tienes un weekend, here's exactly how I'd spend it to experience lo mejor de esta ciudad magica.

Dia Uno: Historia, Colinas, y la Hora Dorada

Morning: Start your day in the historic Alfama district, Lisbon's oldest neighborhood. Wake up early—around 8 AM—before the tourist crowds arrive. Begin with a traditional Portuguese breakfast at a local cafe: a pastel de nata (custard tart) still warm from the oven, paired with a strong bica (espresso). The Alfama is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, laundry lines, and hidden viewpoints. Get lost on purpose—that's how you find the best spots.

Make your way to the Miradouro das Portas do Sol for your first stunning viewpoint. From here, you can see the Tagus River sparkling below and the maze of terracotta roofs tumbling down to the water. Continue to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, just steps away, where bougainvillea frames the view.

Late Morning: Walk to the Feira da Ladra, Lisbon's famous flea market (held on Tuesdays and Saturdays). Even if you're not in the market for vintage tiles or old books, the people-watching is fantastic. This is real Lisbon—locals haggling over antiques, elderly women selling lace, artists displaying their work.

Lunch: Head to Ramiro for the best seafood in Lisbon. Yes, there will be a line. Yes, it's worth it. Order the gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), percebes (barnacles) if you're adventurous, and their famous prego (steak sandwich) to finish. Pair everything with a cold vinho verde.

Afternoon: Take the famous Tram 28, but don't just ride it—use it for transportation between neighborhoods. Hop off at Chiado, Lisbon's elegant shopping district. Browse the beautiful Bertrand bookstore, the oldest operating bookstore in the world, and explore the boutiques along Rua Garrett. Stop at A Brasileira for coffee where Fernando Pessoa himself used to write.

Evening: Make your way to the Bairro Alto for sunset drinks. This bohemian neighborhood comes alive after dark, but start with golden hour at Park Bar—a rooftop hidden on top of a parking garage. The views over the city are spectacular. For dinner, book a table at Belcanto, Chef José Avillez's two-Michelin-star restaurant, for a modern take on Portuguese cuisine. If you want something more casual, Taberna da Rua das Flores serves traditional petiscos (Portuguese tapas) in a cozy setting.

Dia Dos: Belleza Costera y Contemporary Cool

Morning: Take a morning trip to Belém, about 15 minutes by tram or taxi from the center. Arrive at Pastéis de Belém before 9 AM to beat the lines—these are the original pastéis de nata, made from a secret recipe since 1837. The warm custard tarts, dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar, are revelatory.

Walk along the waterfront to the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and masterpiece of Manueline architecture. The detail in the stonework is incredible—sea motifs, exotic plants from Portuguese explorations, and religious imagery all intertwined. Just beyond is the Tower of Belém, another stunning example of this uniquely Portuguese style.

Late Morning: Visit the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology), a stunning contemporary building that curves along the river. The exhibitions are thought-provoking, but even the architecture itself is worth the trip. Walk along the rooftop for panoramic views.

Lunch: Head back to the city center and make your way to LX Factory, a former industrial complex transformed into Lisbon's creative hub. This is where you'll find independent boutiques, design studios, art galleries, and some of the best brunch spots in the city. Try Landeau for their famous chocolate cake, or get a proper meal at Cantina LX.

Afternoon: Explore the trendy Príncipe Real neighborhood. Start at the beautiful garden with its massive 100-year-old cedar tree, then browse the boutiques and concept stores. This is where Lisbon's creative class hangs out—lots of vintage shops, independent designers, and cozy cafes. Stop at Copenhagen Coffee Lab for the best flat white in the city.

Evening: End your Lisbon weekend with fado. This hauntingly beautiful musical tradition is a must-experience. Skip the touristy dinner shows and instead head to Tasca do Chico in Bairro Alto or A Baiuca in Alfama for the real thing—local musicians performing for an audience who genuinely loves the art form. Arrive early, order local wine and petiscos, and let the saudade (that untranslatable Portuguese feeling of longing) wash over you.

Tips Locales para una Mejor Visita

Wear comfortable shoes: Lisbon's hills are no joke. Those cobblestones are beautiful but brutal on your feet. Chunky sneakers or sturdy sandals are essential.

Embrace the miradouros: Lisbon has viewpoints everywhere. Each one offers a different perspective on the city. Make it a game to find as many as you can.

Learn some Portuguese: Even just "obrigada" (thank you) goes a long way. Lisboetas are friendly but appreciate the effort.

Don't over-schedule: The best moments in Lisbon happen when you're wandering without a destination—a hidden azulejo-covered building, a guitarist playing in a square, a perfect moment of light. Leave room for serendipity.

Ate logo, Lisboa. Tienes mi corazon.
— Sofia