{"id":3349,"date":"2025-02-06T17:24:23","date_gmt":"2025-02-06T17:24:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/photonyaa.com\/?p=3349"},"modified":"2025-02-06T17:29:24","modified_gmt":"2025-02-06T17:29:24","slug":"3349","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/photonyaa.com\/?p=3349&lang=en","title":{"rendered":"Winter Escape: Lisbon"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Lisbon in December\u2014mild weather, festive lights, and fewer crowds. Sounds ideal, right? At least, that\u2019s what I thought before arriving. While the city has undeniable charm with its iconic trams, azulejo-covered buildings, and miradouros overlooking the Tagus, I found myself feeling\u2026 underwhelmed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maybe it was the chaotic streets, where every uphill climb felt like a battle, or the touristy vibe that lingered despite the off-season. Even the famous Past\u00e9is de Nata didn\u2019t quite live up to the hype (controversial, I know!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And then there was Porto. Ah, Porto. A city that felt more intimate, effortlessly beautiful, and somehow more authentic. Porto had a soul that Lisbon, for me, just didn\u2019t match. See my Porto Guide HERE<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Of course, Lisbon has its moments. The sunsets by Tagus river were stunning, and a day trip to Almada was magical. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Places I recommend visiting when in Lisbon:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ELEVADOR da BICA<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

This is one of the best spots to catch the iconic, yellow tram with the most amazing views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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MAAT: Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology<\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n

MAAT presents Disco, an exhibition with more than 500 paintings by Vivian Suter and the coolest ”Rooms” concept Anthony McCall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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I highly recommend timing your visit to MAAT so that you arrive at golden hour, allowing you to watch the most magical sunset just outside the museum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Sanctuary of Christ the King<\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The Sanctuary of Christ the King is a Catholic monument and shrine dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ overlooking the city of Lisbon situated in Almada. It was inspired (as you can probably tell) by the Christ the Redeemer statue of Rio de Janeiro.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Restaurante Ponto Final<\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n

When in Almada – Ponto Final is a must visit for a glass of wine and Portuguese cuisine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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LX Factory<\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n

The coolest place with over 50 concept stores, restaurants and cafes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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I recommend ”Sophia Pizzoteca & Bar<\/strong>” – their pizzas were amazing.<\/p>\n\n\n

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UNION<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Probably the most authentic spot in the heart of Lisbon, they have the best, freshly baked empanadas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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KOPPU RAMEN IZAKAYA AVENIDA<\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Honestly, the best ramen I’ve ever had!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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SEEN Sky Bar<\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n

For nibbles and drinks with the prettiest, panoramic views<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Miolo Coffee & Brunch<\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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Other:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n