Olá from sunny Lisbon! ☀️
As a flight attendant, I get to visit many places—but few stick with you like this one. This month, I had just 24 hours in the beautiful city of Lisbon, Portugal. Short? Yes. But I was on a mission.

Lisbon is the kind of city you can’t get tired of. Whether you’re here for a quick stop like me or planning a longer stay by the sea—it gives you both chill and culture in one perfect combo. 💛

 

 

🗣️GET YOUR VOCABULARY RIGHT

No, thank you – Não, obrigado/a

Hello – Olá

Thank you – Obrigado/a (male/female)

One coffee, please – Um café, por favor ☕

Have a good day – Tenha um bom dia

🕰️ A VERY SHORT HISTORY

Portugal became a country way back in 1143, and Lisbon has been its capital since 1255. It was once the heart of a global empire during the Age of Discoveries—think ships, spices, and sea legends. Sadly, in 1755, a massive earthquake destroyed much of the city, but it was rebuilt with charm and soul. Today, Lisbon is a perfect mix of history, ocean breeze, and pastel colors.

🗺️ LANDMARKS

Tram 28 – Hop on this yellow tram for the most scenic ride through Lisbon’s hills.

Alfama – The oldest neighborhood, full of narrow streets and local life.

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte – One of the best viewpoints in the city.

Belém Tower – Iconic and right by the water. Great for a quick stop and photo.

Jerónimos Monastery – A peaceful, stunning place with real history inside the walls.

🍽️ CULINARY DELIGHT

Okay… let’s talk food, the most iconic ones:

Ginjinha – A cherry liqueur. Just try it. Cheers! 🍒🥂

Pastel de Nata – A crispy, creamy custard tart.

Bacalhau – They say there are over 365 ways to cook this salted cod. 🐟

Piri Piri Chicken – Spicy and juicy.

Sardinhas Assadas – Grilled sardines, especially good in summer!

If you’re in Lisbon and want a proper Portuguese kitchen experience, let me tell you about this hidden spot I found—Bairrices. It’s tucked away in an inner garden right next to the famous Time Out Market… but don’t let the location fool you. This place is amazing.

The concept? 22 small plates of traditional Portuguese tapas. You basically get to try everything from the menu, AND, If you fall in love with a dish (which you will), just ask for more—refills are free.

They also serve the cutest little desserts in small bowls, just enough to satisfy you.

All of this for just €25. Yep. I left in a complete food coma—but the happy kind.

Pro tip? Do this place first, and then head over to Time Out Market. I did that and I could enjoy the market vibe and stalls without the overwhelming need to eat everything in sight. Win-win.

 

Fun story what happened to me… So I did some research before my layover of places I wanted to visit and on my list was;

Belem Tower

Pink street

Time out market

And Rua Augusta

Learn from my mistakes 😅
I didn’t realise Belem Tower was way on the opposite side of the city centre. I checked Google Maps — about a 45–50 minute walk from my hotel. I thought, “no problem,” a nice post-flight walk with great weather…

But once I got there, I found out the tower was under construction. Probably very beautiful when it’s not, but honestly, I looked at it and thought:
“Oh… that’s it?” 😃

Then I opened Google Maps again… and realised I’d have to walk all the way back the same route just to get to the places I wanted to visit next. That’s when I gave up and jumped in a taxi back to the centre.

I will share with you my picture I took of it, and please don’t hate me for it, I bet it’s stunning once the work is done! 😁

Best Time to Visit Lisbon ☀️
Lisbon is a great year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from March to June or September to early November. The weather is warm but not too hot, with fewer tourists.

Summer (July–August) can get really hot, especially in the afternoons, and it’s usually more crowded. Still great, but can be very hot.

If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, winter (December–February) is mild compared to most of Europe — just bring a jacket and some layers for colder evenings.