It’s beautiful here : LISBON

Palácio da Pena | Sintra

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Bom dia friends,

I had to do hardly any planning for this trip as I’m fortunate enough to have the most incredible Portuguese friends — so a special s/o to Teresa, Fernando and Simone who all thoughtfully curated a 3 page itinerary filled with insider tips on Lisbon before I set off.

Also, s/o to this book for all the pictures. Also, and always, my favourite person to travel with - Stephanie.

Here’s 5 things I love about Lisbon.

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1. Sleep

I used airbnb for my trip but have had friends stay at these hotels which they gushed about (areas in italics) :

• Casa C’Alma - Principe Real

• Santa Clara 1728 - São Vicente

• Baixa House - Baixa

• Micasaenlisboa - Graça

• Memmo Alfama - Alfama

• Palácio Belmonte - Castelo

Palácio Belmonte bedroom.

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2 & 3. A bookshop and an aperitivo

Both located in the hipster-chic LX Factory project, the Livraria Ler Devagar Bookstore for browsing and the sunset from the Rio Maravilha rooftop bar were fantastic.

A few others I didn't have time for but will try on my next trip:

• A Cevicheria - Biarro Alto

• Restaurante Bastardo - Baixa

• Antónia Petiscos - Bairro Alto

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4. Explore

The Palácio da Pena in Sintra will take you an entire day if you fancy seeing the palace as well as the gardens. I absolutely loved the gardens - look for the small organic farm and also the horses stables.

If you’re looking for another day trip from Lisbon, at least 7 people told me to go here. (I will, I will. Next trip.)

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5. Touristy tchotchkes

Here’s a list of a few of my favourite ‘Made In Portugal’ products to bring back home.

This orgasmic little custard tart from Pastéis de Belém. They come in packs of six that I guarantee you will not even make it to the airport.

Bordallo Pinheiro ceramics from Avida Portuguesa.

Soaps from Claus Porto.

Portuguese tiles from Cortiço e Netos.

Honestly though, you will want to hire a small van and buy absolutely everything in this shop.

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