8 Days in Lisbon

As the world cautiously reopened its doors post-pandemic, I embarked on a long-overdue journey to visit family in India. But this trip held another first for me — my inaugural solo venture into Europe, beyond the confines of an airport. The destination? Lisbon — a city that has long captivated my imagination.

So, why Lisbon? The answer lies in a blend of personal aspirations and practical considerations. Lisbon, a hub for digital nomads, promised an environment conducive to both work and exploration. Its reputation for mild climate further sweetened the prospect, especially after a hot two weeks in India. Additionally, it was very easy to slot in Lisbon on my return from India - I got a good deal via Dubai. And of course, being part of the Schengen area meant easy access for US passport holders.

I relied on a mix of traditional and modern tools to loosely plan my trip - I had a general sense of what I wanted to do but the day-to-day was more spontaneous. Platforms like Nomadlist provided invaluable insights into local meetups and neighborhood reviews, fostering a sense of community even before I set foot in the city. Wikivoyage offered a treasure trove of information for discovery, helping me chart my course through Lisbon's streets and beyond. Offline versions of Google Translate and Maps were indispensable companions, ensuring smooth navigation and communication.

Lisbon’s Heartbeat

Nestled near Cais do Sodré station, my hostel in central Lisbon was more than an accommodation - it was a gateway to the lively central city and a meeting place for new friends. Lisbon's robust infrastructure and rhythmic pulse were immediately evident, mirroring the city's unique topography. Much like San Francisco, Lisbon is a city of hills and winding streets, with its downtown reconstructed by Marques de Pombal after the 1755 earthquake, while the rest of the city cascades over undulating landscapes. The buildings, diverse yet orderly, are adorned with shimmering tiles, earning Lisbon its nickname, the "City of Light." At night, the lively alley parties of Bairro Alto epitomized urban vitality, with live music and small bars spilling their jubilant crowds into the streets, creating a communal celebration under the stars.

The winding streets of the Alfama neighborhoods (which is largely survived the aforementioned earthquake) offered a deeper connection, transforming me from a mere tourist to a welcomed guest. During a walking tour, the locals shared personal stories, enriching my understanding of the neighborhood and the contemporary issues of the country. This interaction led to an invitation to a football match, where we cheered for Ronaldo's boyhood club, Sporting CP, in an electric atmosphere at a night game. Beyond these warm social interactions, Lisbon's “miradouros” or vista points offered breathtaking vistas, and landmarks like Castelo de São Jorge narrated the city's rich history. Various museums and the iconic Praça do Comércio further highlighted Lisbon's diverse offerings for any sightseer.

Day trip to Sintra

Sintra, with its fairytale ambiance, was a contrast to Lisbon's urban charm. I would recommend all visitors to Lisbon make a day trip out of nearby Sintra - just an hour by bus. The lush greenery, majestic castles, and historical churches of this town were mesmerizing. Roaming through the grounds of Pena Palace, I was transported to another era, a world of royal fantasies and historic grandeur. The Pena Palace’s combination of various architectural styles parallels modern Lisbon with its cosmopolitan feel.

Although time and rainy weather didn't allow for a visit to the nearby Moorish Castle, I was just in awe of the remarkable architecture, perched high on a hill. The fact that people almost 1,000 years ago built such a fortification left me in awe.

Coastal Retreat in Cascais

Towards the end of my trip, I took the opportunity to explore the nearby coastal town of Cascais - a serene retreat from Lisbon's bustling energy. Its quaint charm was soothing, walking along its beaches and boutique shops provided a space to reflect quietly. The town's art district (inside a medieval fort) and a boat cruise added layers to the coastal experience. Conveniently, the return to Lisbon via a 20-minute regional rail journey was seamlessly integrated with my existing metro card.

A Global Community

In my short time, I got a chance to run into a variety of people from different walks of life. Besides fellow travelers, I also befriended my tour guide from the first day, Maria, who introduced me to several restaurants and we even visited a live music show with her colleagues. Each traditional Portuguese dish offered insight into the local cuisine. Samosas, pastel de nata, and various fish dishes were not just meals but experiences, enriched by the stories shared by the folks from around the world I dined with. I also saw the vibrant innovation community in Lisbon - while I knew there was a sizable expat population in Lisbon, I was surprised to see a variety of multinationals and startups alike when I visited WeWork. These moments, shared with new friends from the hostel, are now core memories of my time in Lisbon, epitomizing the city's fusion of community and culture.

I leave Portugal with a profound sense of gratitude for my ability to travel and the warmth of the people. Keeping an open mind and experiencing new cultures reminds me of the vibrancy of the world and gives me hope for the future. It’s clear to see that Lisbon has become a global hub, attracting new and preserving its traditions alike. For now, all I can say is “obrigado” to the people, and hope to return someday for a longer stay.