Smile, you are in Lisbon!

"Any sizeable Portuguese town looks like a superstitious bride's finery - something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue." - Mary McCarthy

It is entirely impossible not to fall in love in Lisbon. Everything is so beautiful - the narrow streets, the old buildings, even the subway ... it is worth taking pictures literally on every corner. Lisbon is like an open-air museum full of art and culture. It has been one of my dream destinations for quite some time, and this summer I was finally able to go for three days. Were three days enough to explore Lisbon? Definitely. I am not an idle person, and even when I'm on vacation, after the third day I get bored.

What do you need to know before visiting the capital of Portugal? Lisbon is a sunny and cozy city set on seven hills, a colorful blend of serenity and chaos. The climate is great, the food is unimaginably delicious, and the people are warm and smiling. In addition, Lisbon is one of the less expensive destinations, compared to many others in the summer. Whether you go solo or with friends, an unforgettable experience is guaranteed.

Alfama was the place that left me completely mesmerized on the first day and which I visited again the following two days. Lisbon's oldest district got my attention with the winding cobblestone streets, scenic views, Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia. One of the most impressive and important historic buildings is located in Alfama, namely the Lisbon Cathedral and the Saint George Castle. Built on the highest hill in Lisbon, the castle was once a Moorish castle that was later used as a royal residence by the Arabs.

If you are already in Alfama, do not miss to hop on the emblematic tram 28. Small, colorful and very cute! It is almost impossible to find a seat, but for me personally, the ride was really fun. I didn't even know where I was going, I just got off and then got on again.

Belém is one of the most beautiful districts in Lisbon. It is located far from the center, but there are buses and trams which are pretty convenient. My first stop was the Jerónimos Monastery, which is considered to be the cultural symbol of Lisbon. The monastery was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama's return from India. When I arrived, there were already two endless queues at the entrance, so it didn't really matter if you got your ticket online. The monastery is extremely beautiful, both outside and inside, with lush ornaments and many details. Inside the church is the stone sarcophagus of Vasco da Gama. Jerónimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for every tourist, ensuring an exciting adventure through the history and life of sailors.

Jerónimos Monastery

The next big queue was the one for Belém Tower. It is truely an architectural jewel and perhaps the most visited landmark in Lisbon. It was built in the period 1515 - 1521 as a fortress to guard the entrance to the port, and served as the starting point for many of the voyages of the caravans to the New World. There is something romantic about the tower, and the view from the inside is just as unique.

Belém Tower

Your visit to Belém wouldn't be complete if you didn't stop by their most popular pastry shop Pastéis de Belém. Of course, you can try pastel de nata literally everywhere in Lisbon, but nowhere will it taste so good. The pastry shop is located on the side of the Jerónimos Monastery and its walls are covered with tiles "azulejo". Needless to mention the crowd of people every time I walked past the shop. The pastéis de nata are small custard tarts made of layered dough and filled with sweet cream, dusted with cinnamon. Keep in mind they are tastier when they are warm.

What else to try while in Lisbon?

1.Bifana. If you are a fan of pork, this simple but very delicious sandwich is the one for you. If you have the opportunity, try it at As Bifanas Do Afonso.

2.Fish. The Portuguese have the highest level of fish consumption in the world. The most popular choices are sardines and cod (bacalhau), which you will find at any place offering traditional Portuguese dishes. The recipes are innumerable, but sardines are usually served with roasted potatoes or green salad. Also, you may come across many stores that sell only canned sardines of exceptional quality.

3.Piri-piri. When I ordered it, my expectations were quite high. And they were definitely outnumbered. The most delicious spicy chicken with potatoes I have ever tasted.

4.Ginjinha. Ginjinha is a cherry liqueur that is usually served in shot forms made of chocolate.

5.Vinho verde. Don't be fooled that this wine is green ... it's white.

The food in Lisbon is so varied and tasty that you probably won't go wrong with anything you order. Unfortunately, I didn't have the chance to listen to some fado, but many places offer dinner under the sounds of the famous Portuguese music.

Make sure you stop by Chiado, Baixa and Bairro Alto, the other well-known districts in Lisbon. In Chiado you will come across theaters, old-time cafes and jewelry stores. Baixa is a district where you can go shopping - here are some of the most expensive boutiques in Lisbon. During the day, the streets of Bairro Alto are quiet, there is hardly anything that will impress you. But in the evening, this district comes to life, revealing a completely different look to its visitors.

No matter what I tell you about Lisbon it will not be enough. Some things cannot be described, they just have to be seen and experienced. So, if someday you find yourself in this wonderful place, have a pastel de nata, listen to fado, look at the sunset from a nice viewpoint and smile ... because you are in Lisbon.

Muito obrigada, Lisboa!