STAY:
In the emerging neighbourhood of Cais do Sodré, close to the city’s market, the lively Bairro Alto, as well as easy walking distance to the elegant Chiado district, is this boutique hotel with river and city views. Stylish, modern rooms, with striking photo murals and super comfortable beds. Complimentary port and custard tarts in the afternoon, and welcome wine and sushi in the evening. http://www.lxboutiquehotel.com/
Found tucked away down a skinny street in the famous Alfama district, walking distance to the Cathedral and the castle, is this stylish hotel with ‘wow’ views of Alfama and the river. The elegant pool terrace bar is the place to enjoy Portuguese wines and tapas.
http://www.memmoalfama.com
SEE & DO:
Portugal’s cuisine is so much more than ruby ports, cream custard tarts and the ubiquitous salt cod. The best way to discover both the city and its amazing food it to spend time with Celia Pedroso, food expert, guide and author of ‘Eat Portugal’. Find places not mentioned by the guide books and eat dishes you wouldn’t think to order.
http://eatportugal.net/
‘Tasca do Chico’
The melancholy, passion and even joy of Fado is mesmerising. These unique, poetic, story-telling songs are a captivating expression of Portuguese culture that has been recognised as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. For an intimate place to hear local singers, visit ‘Tasca do Chico’ Fado bar in the Bairro Alto. They don’t have a website, or speak English but your guest house or hotel can book a shared table for you.
In recent years the city streets have become crowded with Tuk Tuks. Unapologetically touristy, these 3 wheeled auto rickshaws offer an entertaining way to take in the sights.
www.tuk-tuk-lisboa.pt
EAT:
Feitoria Restaurant & Wine Bar
If you only have one upscale meal in Lisbon, then make sure it’s here. The Michelin starred Feitoria Restaurant is in the über stylish Altis Belém Hotel. Here João Rodrigues, one of Portugal’s great chefs, creates a menu inspired by Portugal’s explorers. White-gloved service, exceptional presentation and unforgettable flavours.
http://restaurantefeitoria.com/
Once an old fishing tackle shop, this is now one of the coolest places in town. Retaining its quirky, vintage style with fishing paraphernalia adorning the walls, this is a great place to try local fish, seafood and canned delicacies typical of the region. At night the place buzzes, with a friendly mix of locals and visitors.
www.solepesca.com
This intimate bar restaurant with vintage decor, just down from the Miradouro da Graça viewpoint, offers a small menu of smoked meats, sausages, sardines, and cheeses and an interesting wine list, available by the glass.
www.facebook.com/GracaDoVinhoLx
The city’s market, in the on-trend neighbourhood of Cais do Sodré is now one of Lisbon’s favourite eating destinations. TimeOut manages a new, cavernous food hall surrounded by smart food and restaurant outlets. It’s a chance to try bites from some of Portugal’s best restaurants and emerging chefs, as well as buy fresh and delicatessen produce.
www.facebook.com/TimeOutMercadodaRibeira
BUY:
High quality gourmet canned fish, especially sardines, are a delicacy in Portugal. It’s all about sardines in Lisbon! Found in Rua do Arsenal, the National Association has a huge cooperative store offering a fascinating array of canned fish from all the major brands – the packaging alone is beautiful. Perfect for original gifts or to stock up on some of the world’s tastiest fish.
One of the independent canned fish producers, this firm has three historic brands. Each purchase is beautifully wrapped in paper and string with a branded seal – shopping like it used to be.
http://www.conserveiradelisboa.pt/
LX are the original makers of the colourful fabric sardines. This family firm make an eye-catching array of fun and contemporary designs that are iconic of Lisbon.
www.facebook.com/ponto.lx
A beautiful boutique in the elegant district of Chaido. Classic store design, with cabinets bursting with high quality Portuguese artisan products, from ceramics to fabrics.
http://www.avidaportuguesa.com/
Embaixada
In the fashionable Principe Real area, in a XIX century palace is this trendy mixed retail space. Independent retailers of fashion and accessories share with an art exhibition area and restaurant. It’s the place to browse, hang out and relax.
Praça do Príncipe Real, nº 26
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