Some cities leave a lasting impression on us, making us want to return again and again. For some, like Lisbon, it feels like a second home. Jocelyn Garwood feels drawn to Lisbon and always finds something new during her visits. So, what makes Lisbon so special? Let’s find out as Jocelyn explores the city’s highlights and why she loves the Portuguese capital.
No matter when I visit Lisbon, I always find something new and exciting. During my last trip in the summer of 2021, I discovered two new favorites: the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. My biggest surprise was stumbling upon Estufa Fria, hidden in the northwest corner of Parque Eduardo VII. Despite numerous walks through the park, I had missed this botanical wonder until last year. It just goes to show that there’s always something new to discover in Lisbon.
Here are my favorite spots in Lisbon, captured in pictures. From well-known landmarks to hidden gems, I hope you’ll find something new to explore too.
Some cities give me mixed feelings, but Lisbon fills me with warmth and nostalgia. For me, ‘quintessential Lisbon’ includes cobblestone streets, clothes drying on lines, sidewalk cafés, and the old electric trams clanking through Alfama’s steep hills. These simple pleasures define the city.
Lisbon’s street art, both above and below ground, adds a creative touch and sparks new ideas. The city wouldn’t be the same without its Coffee kiosks, azulejo tiles, and boats on the Tagus River.
The Monastery of São Vicente de Fora was founded in 1174 by Portugal’s first king, D.A. Henriques, as a vow of thanks for reclaiming Lisbon from the Moors. Over the centuries, it has transformed into the stunning building we see today, with gorgeous rooftop views.
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, established by Armenian philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian, boasts one of Europe’s finest private art collections. It features pieces from ancient Egyptian statues to 20th-century art. The collection includes Greek coins, Chinese porcelains, Japanese prints, Eastern Islamic Art, and European paintings by renowned artists. I loved this museum so much that I visited multiple times.
Estufa Fria is a fascinating botanical complex comprising three greenhouses: Estufa Fria (Cold Greenhouse), Estufa Quente (Warm Greenhouse), and Estufa Doce (Sweet Greenhouse). It’s easy to forget you’re in a greenhouse, as some pathways make you feel like you’re in the wild.
Parque Eduardo VII, named after King Edward VII of the UK, features a wide grassy slope and symmetrical box hedging. Located at the northern end of Avenida da Liberdade, it’s easy to find. This park is a wonderful place to stroll and catch sunsets. It took me a while to learn that the ornate yellow building is actually a sports pavilion.
I fell in love with Lisbon years ago, and my feelings haven’t changed. It continues to give me warm, nostalgic vibes.
Jos is a seasoned solo traveler from Canada, now exploring the world. While she no longer hitchhikes, she still roams with a backpack, proving that curiosity and adventure have no age limit.
If you’re looking for more exciting places near Lisbon, consider visiting the Palaces of Sintra or the Real Jurassic Park in the center of Portugal, both just an hour’s drive away from Lisbon.
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