Lisbon: The Fado City
We arrived in Lisbon late in the afternoon, stepping into the vibrant rhythms of Portugal’s capital. Navigating the metro to the Baixa district, we were immediately immersed in the city’s unique energy - an intoxicating blend of old-world charm and modern hustle.
That evening, we had plans to experience one of Lisbon’s most iconic traditions Fado, the soul of Portuguese music. Our destination? Mesa De Frades, a gem tucked away in the historic Alfama district. Housed in a former chapel, the restaurant’s walls were adorned with beautiful azulejo tiles, setting the perfect stage for an unforgettable night.
Fado is music that feels like poetry in motion - melancholic yet hauntingly beautiful. The soulful strains of the Portuguese guitar, paired with singers whose voices seemed to carry centuries of longing, touched our hearts deeply. Between bites of traditional Portuguese cuisine, we let the music wash over us, each note weaving a story of love, loss, and saudade - a uniquely Portuguese sense of longing.
After the show, we wandered through Alfama’s labyrinth of cobbled streets. The neighbourhood buzzed with life, the festive glow of Christmas lights sparkling in shop windows, across balconies, and lining the streets. The aroma of roasted chestnuts filled the air, mingling with the sounds of distant chatter and music. Mini Christmas markets dotted the streets, offering handmade crafts and holiday treats that added to the festive lights.
A New Day, A New Perspective
The next morning, we set out for more adventures, starting with the iconic Santa Justa Elevator, an architectural marvel that lifted us to some of the most spectacular views in Lisbon. From the top, the city unfolded like a postcard - red-tiled rooftops, the majestic Sao Jorge Castle crowning the hill, and the Tagus River shimmering under the clear blue sky.
Descending into the bustling Praca do Comercio, we marvelled at the grandeur of the Arco da Rua Augusta, which frames the river perfectly. Nearby the striking statue of King Jose 1 on horseback stood tall, a reminder of Lisbon’s storied past. We also paused to admire the plaque honouring the Marquis of Pombal, the visionary who led the city’s rebirth after the devastating 1755 earthquake.
No visit to Lisbon is complete without hopping on one of its vintage trams, and Tram 28 did not disappoint. Clattering through narrow streets, it revealed a city of contrasts: from ancient neighbourhoods to lively plazas, every turn a new discovery.
Belem
We made our way to Belem, home of the legendary pasteis de nata. A stop at the original Pasteis de Belem bakery was non-negotiable, and the warm, custard-filled pastries were every bit as heavenly as promised.
Back in central Lisbon, we explored the vibrant Timeout Market, a food lover’s paradise filled with a kaleidoscope of cuisines. The energy was infectious, with locals and tourists alike savouring everything from traditional dishes to modern culinary creations.
As the sun set, we strolled down Pink Street, Lisbon’s quirky party hub. The street, painted in vibrant pink and adorned with colourful umbrellas overhead, buzzed with music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses - an essential stop for nightlife enthusiasts.
Christmas Cheer
The festive season added a special sparkle to the city. From the mini Christmas markets to Wonderland Lisboa, Lisbon transformed into a winter wonderland. Streets and squares glowed with intricate light displays, each corner offering a new festive surprise.
To truly understand Lisbon, we joined a free walking tour with Lisbon Chill Out led by the charismatic Jose. He took us beyond the typical tourists stops, sharing hidden gems and stories that gave us a local’s perspective. From the city’s many miradouros (viewpoints) to its lively markets and charming alleys, Jose brought Lisbon’s rich history and culture to life.
Final Thoughts
Lisbon is a city that captivates all the senses. The narrow, cobbled streets echo with history, the views are postcard-perfect, and the aromas of fresh pastries and grilled sardines tempt you at every turn. It’s a city that invites you to get lost - and you’ll be glad you did.
Next stop: Germany - Dusseldorf and Beyond. Stay tuned for the next chapter of our adventure!