The captivating city of Lisbon marked the third leg of our exploration through Portugal. Lisbon, or Lisboa in Portuguese, boasts a rich historical tapestry, and our accommodations in the Santa Maria Maior neighborhood, near Rua Augusta, provided us with an excellent base. This vibrant street is situated in the heart of the city, alongside the famed Tagus River and Terreiro do Paço, where buildings carry a legacy of at least three centuries. The architecture was truly a sight to behold, and we immersed ourselves in this part of the country from September 18-24th.
Our home for the week was an Airbnb just steps away from Praça do Comércio, one of Europe’s most picturesque squares and among the largest in Portugal. The narrow cobblestone streets surrounding it offered a myriad of delectable Portuguese cuisine and shopping opportunities.
Starting at Praça do Comércio, we embarked on a tuk-tuk ride through Lisbon’s historical district, steeped in medieval charm. Our journey took us to the Paço do Concelho de Lisboa, where Lisbon was declared a republic in 1910, a momentous piece of history. From there, we wandered through Jardim Júlio de Castilho, a serene garden adjacent to the Santa Luzia church in Lisbon, Portugal, offering a peaceful retreat. Continuing on, we explored Largos Portas do Sol, a breathtaking viewpoint with panoramic views of the Tagus River and the surrounding city. Passing by iconic landmarks such as the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora, Terreiro do Paço, Jardim Dom Luís, Praça do Município, Rossio Square, Igreja da Graça, São Vicente, and Jardim da Cerca da Graça, we delved deep into the historical and cultural fabric of Lisbon. Each location unfolded a unique tale, weaving together the city’s past and present.
A cherished memory from our time in Lisbon was a train journey to the Union das Freguesias de Sintra. The boys were captivated by the castles, with Sintra São Martinho standing out during our tour of the National Palace of Pena.
Exploring Mercado da Ribeira was another highlight of our Lisbon adventure. Unlike a typical neighborhood grocery store, this market offered a unique and immersive experience, showcasing the vibrant local flavors and artisanal products.
While strolling around the vicinity of Ribeira das Naus, we stumbled upon Praça Europa, a perfect spot for waterfront photos and a splendid view of the Ponte 25 de Abril nicknamed the Golden Gate Bridge of Portugal.
As our time in Lisbon drew to a close, we dedicated one of our last days to Parque das Nações, where we enjoyed a cable car ride, explored Jardins da Água, and visited the Lisbon Oceanarium. This proved to be the most thrilling experience for the boys during our stay in this captivating city. Lisbon, with its blend of history, culture, and modern attractions, left an indelible mark on our Portuguese adventure.
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