How to spend your time in Lisbon

Lisbon, a picture perfect panorama of enchanting streets, ancient castles, astonishing cathedrals and most importantly the city that we like to call home. We are incredible lucky to have our surf camp closely located to Lisbon, one of Europe fastest growing cities. From our Surf Villa, you can take a short train ride along our beautiful south coastline and be delivered to a city full of art, colour and vibrance.

If you fancy taking a day trip to Lisbon but don’t know where to begin. Fear not! Lisbon is not that big and we have put together a small list of our favourite things to do.

Walk in the Footsteps of Explorers in Belem

Belem is one Portugal’s strongest symbols of its glorious past and where the Portuguese began their many explorations around the world. Sitting on the banks of the river, slightly outside of the city centre, Belem is filled with some of Lisbon’ most iconic landmarks. The most iconic of these being the famous Torre de Belém, jutting onto the Rio Tejo itself. The Mosteiro dos Jeronimos is another one Lisbon’s most iconic buildings. Commissioned to celebrate Vasco da Gama’s discovery of a sea route to India in 1498, the monastery is a Goliath of pure fantasy. With the exception of both of these UNESCO World Heritage sites, Belem also boasts an array of other enjoyable activities, such as the famous Pastéis de Belém, which makes the area a perfect half day excursion.

Get lost in Alfama

The neighbourhood of Alfama dates back to the 5th century and is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in all of Europe. One of the rare neighbourhoods to survive the devastating 1755 earthquake, Alfama is a labyrinth of narrow lanes and cobblestone streets which are best enjoyed by simply getting lost in. The entire area has a charming and charismatic feeling with a touch of village atmosphere. Early mornings make for the best time to wander the area as it becomes increasingly popular amongst tourists. For a real fast paced atmosphere, visit during the Festas dos Santos Populares in June.

Soak up the vibrant evening and nightlife atmosphere

Speaking of fast paced and vibrant atmosphere, Lisbon is a city that expresses one of the very best evening and night-time atmospheres in Europe. A trip to Lisbon couldn’t be complete without basking in the incredible zest that the city exudes. Make your way to one of the city’s many miradouros while the sun sets and enjoy a cold beer or glass of wine as the dusk paints a soft glow over the Rio Tejo and the Ponte 25 de Abril. Then, head to some of the cities incredible rooftop bars or enjoy the energy of the streets in neighbourhoods such as Cais do Sodre & Bairro Alto where you can find a massive variety of restaurants and bars.

Discover Art and Creativity at the LXFactory

One of Lisbon’s coolest hangout areas and centres of art and creativity can be found in the neighbourhood of Alcântara. The LX Factory which was once an old strip of industrial and factory buildings has now been transformed into a hub of trendy cafes, restaurants, shops and co-working spaces. The LX Factory is one of the very best ways to experience the creativity that Lisbon offers. The entire space is bursting with inspiring art, music and food and even offers amazing rooftop bars such as "Rio Maravilha". It also presents you with the chance to explore creative businesses and stores, wander through unusual bookshops or simply sit and enjoy a coffee.

The Mercado da Ribeiro (or the TimeOut Market)

Quickly becoming Lisbon’s most popular market amongst tourists, the Mercado da Ribeiro is located in Cais do Sodre, right next to the train station. At one point, it was Lisbon's main food market, originally opening in 1892. In 2014 it was taken over by Time Out magazine, and in May of that year opened the food court which has since gone on to become one of Lisbon’s most popular culinary experiences. It contains everything from local brands and products to some of the cities top chefs, while the food ranges from hamburgers to steak sandwiches, seafood, sushi and ice cream, amongst many others.

Of course, Lisbon is a city filled with many more amazing experiences. These are just a few of our favourites. If you have some of your own suggestions, feel free to leave them in the comments below.

If you’re interested in booking a surf camp close to Lisbon, you can also check out our Surf Villa packs on our website. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram.