Well Traveled In Lisbon, Portugal: Hotels, Hot Spots & More

So, really, there's something for everyone. Here, our favorite spots. 

While touring historic Lisbon, you'll want a place to rest and recharge between it all. And we also recommend venturing outside city limits to experience more of what the country has to offer. 

This five-star boutique hotel is located in one of the trendiest areas of Lisbon, making it a perfect home base if nothing but for the location. But of course, it makes our list for more than that: The light, airy, and brightly decorated rooms offer a resting place that feels joyful and fun (much like the city itself). The cafe serves local beers and bites (as well as delicious coffees in the morning to get you going). The rooftop restaurant Lumi offers impeccable views of the skyline, alongside a fresh menu. The spa offers massages, body work, and beauty treatments from the top professionals in the city. 

Lisbon is one of the best places to visit for an active traveler: Its surrounding areas are perfect for water sports, hikes, and enjoying nature. And touring the city itself can provide quite the workout even if you're just sightseeing. 

North of the city, nestled in forests of the Serra de Sintra, is the small village of Sintra. I have no other way to describe it other than a fairy-tale village—with a collection of castles between majestic pinewood forests. Several of the castles are open to the public for tours, along with the village center's shops and restaurants. The most popular attraction is the National Palace of Pena and its surrounding parks, full of lush, exotic botanicals.  

Portugal has world-class surfing, thanks to its prime real estate on the Atlantic coast. For serious enthusiasts, Ericeira is not to be missed. The seaside city is one of the most enchanting places to visit on the silver coast, largely due to the global surfing community it attracts (it's deemed the unofficial surfing capital of the country and suitable for both beginners and professionals). It's Europe's first and only World Surfing Reserve, which are areas designated to preserve and protect the environment. And for days when you're not catching the waves, the city has incredible beaches and seafood hot spots to enjoy.  

There is no shortage of architectural feasts in Lisbon—just walking throughout the city will provide ample opportunities to stop and marvel at the historic buildings, which include cathedrals and castles. If you're looking for more guidance on stops along the way, Belém Tower (a medieval defense tower on the coast), São Jorge Castle (a Moorish castle), and Jerónemous Monastery (a gothic monastery) are simply breathtaking. Not for nothing, but the hilly landscape means you'll be getting your steps in—I highly recommend wearing appropriate walking shoes. 

Hop on the train heading west all the way to the last stop, and you'll find yourself in Cascais. The stylish resort town has charming beaches, upscale shops, and delicious restaurants. It's a fairly walkable city, so you don't need to overly plan a visit—you might just be perfectly happy to stroll around and see what gems you find. But if you're looking for more guidance, I recommend visiting the beach Praia da Conceição (and neighboring beach cove Rainha) and the town square.

With scores of restaurants that prioritize fresh food and natural wines, you'll be well fed during your time here.

This spot earned itself two Michelin stars for 2023. Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa has crafted a culinary masterpiece by blending local ingredients and influences, global inspiration, and of course, Portuguese mainstays. To dine, there are three options: Alma (which is a roving selection of chef's favorites), Costa a Costa (a tribute to the country's amazing seafood selections), and a la carte. 

For traditional Portuguese tapas, there are tabernas a plenty to pop into while in Lisbon. They're a perfect place to share bottles of natural wine, snack on olives, and sample local fare. This is a favorite taberna of mine, where the friendly, knowledgeable staff will guide you through their advanced wine selections and give you sightseeing tips. The restaurant is across the street from Praça de São Paulo, where you can sit outside, under the stars, and laugh your night away. 

For snacks, groceries, and wine, stop by this market that sells produce from small farmers and wine from the various nearby regions. The bar in the shop also does sandwiches, small plates, and charcuterie boards. 

Locals' attire is stylish yet laid back—with a strong focus on well-made basics. Here, some of my favorite Portuguese finds. 

Lisbon is a stunning European find that's finally getting its due as a must-see city, thanks to its thriving restaurant scene, historic architecture, and incredibly friendly locals. Plus, for those looking for a well-being reset, the city and its surrounding areas offer ample opportunities for exploring nature, movement, and relaxation.