LISBON CITY GUIDE — THE LUX NOMADE EDIT
Lisbon is a city that reveals itself gradually. Built on seven hills and bathed in a honey-toned light that softens everything it touches, Portugal’s capital feels both historic and quietly contemporary. Tiled façades, pastel buildings and wrought-iron balconies frame sun-drenched streets where cafés spill onto pavements and long lunches flow effortlessly into sunset drinks overlooking the Tagus River.
Lisbon moves at a gentler pace than Europe’s more frenetic capitals — and that’s exactly the point. Days are defined by wandering, coffee breaks at iconic cafés, and spontaneous detours down cobbled streets leading to miradouros with postcard-perfect views. Its charm lies in authenticity, yet beneath its old-world elegance is a modern, design-led city: a thriving culinary scene, five-star hotels, and an emerging appreciation for artisanal craft.
From palaces turned boutique hotels to rooftop terraces, Michelin-starred restaurants, and stores brimming with local ceramics and heritage soaps, Lisbon is a city for travellers who want to indulge in atmosphere as much as luxury.
WHERE TO STAY
Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina
A restored 18th-century palace with river views and intimate, art-filled interiors. The rooftop pool and terrace offer one of the city’s most magical sunset experiences.
Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon
A Lisbon landmark combining grandeur and contemporary refinement. Michelin-starred dining, a serene spa, and panoramic rooftop views make this a destination in its own right.
https://www.fourseasons.com/lisbon
Bairro Alto Hotel
Elegance meets cultural heritage between Chiado and Bairro Alto. Its rooftop terrace and refined interiors make it a perfect base for exploring Lisbon’s most vibrant districts.
https://www.bairroaltohotel.com
AlmaLusa Alfama
AlmaLusa Alfama is the AlmaLusa Hotels’ third hotel (AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado being the first Lisbon property followed by AlmaLusa Comporta). The 25 individually designed rooms and suites are housed in a 12-century building in one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, offering a charming and authentic atmosphere. With friendly staff, 24/7 concierge service, a delicious breakfast, and a helpful concierge service, this is a great hotel for Lisbon ‘first-timers’ looking for a stylish yet comfortable hotel as a base when exploring Portugal’s beautiful capital. Read the full Lux Nomade hotel review.
https://www.almalusahotels.com/
EAT & DRINK — LISBON’S MOST CONSIDERED TABLES
Belcanto
José Avillez’s two-Michelin-star flagship blends tradition with contemporary technique. The tasting menu is a carefully orchestrated journey through Portuguese flavours — a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Time Out Market Lisboa
A lively, elevated food hall showcasing the city’s top chefs and artisans. Perfect for relaxed grazing, discovering local wines, and soaking up Lisbon’s vibrant energy.
https://www.timeoutmarket.com/lisboa
Lumi Rooftop
Overlooking Bairro Alto, Lumi combines seasonal cuisine with panoramic views. A sunset cocktail here feels like a private Lisbon moment.
https://www.thelumiares.com/eat-and-drink/lumi-rooftop
ROOFTOPS & SUNSET MOMENTS
Sky Bar by SEEN
Glamorous yet relaxed, Sky Bar offers creative cocktails and 360-degree city vistas — perfect for the golden-hour ritual.
Topo Chiado
Hidden among convent ruins, this casual terrace offers sweeping skyline views. Ideal for laid-back sunset drinks.
Image credit:A Vida Portuguesa
SHOPPING — CRAFTED, LOCAL & TIMELESS
A Vida Portuguesa
A curated celebration of Portuguese heritage: ceramics, enamelware, pantry staples and stationery. In the five different stores you will find beautifully packaged products, perfect for gifts.
Vista Alegre
Founded in 1824, Vista Alegre offers porcelain tableware and decorative objects that are timeless keepsakes.
Claus Porto
A luxury Portuguese soap and fragrance brand, with Art Deco-inspired packaging and botanical scents — ideal for gifting or indulgence.
NEIGHBOURHOODS TO WANDER
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Alfama: Narrow streets, tiled façades and miradouros; Lisbon’s most atmospheric quarter.
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Chiado: Elegant and cultural, with theatres, historic cafés, and refined boutiques.
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Príncipe Real: Leafy, creative, and stylish — known for concept stores, galleries, and relaxed cafés.
USEFUL THINGS TO KNOW
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Transport: Lisbon is hilly, so comfortable shoes are essential. Trams are charming but can get crowded. Uber and taxis are reliable, but walking is the best way to explore central districts.
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Currency & Payments: The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but small cafés and markets may prefer cash.
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Language: Portuguese is the official language; English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Learning a few phrases (“obrigada” for thank you, “por favor” for please) is appreciated.
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Tipping: Optional but customary: 5–10% in restaurants if service is good.
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Opening Hours: Shops often close for a long lunch (1–3pm), so plan around this. Restaurants typically open for lunch 12–2pm and dinner 7–10pm.
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Climate: Summers are warm and dry; winters are mild. Bring layers — Lisbon’s hills can be breezy in the evening.
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Cultural Etiquette: Fado houses are intimate; silence during performances is expected. Photography may be restricted in historic sites.
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Shopping Tips: For ceramics and soaps, check provenance and craftsmanship. Many local brands have flagship stores, ensuring authenticity.
Lisbon is a city best experienced slowly. Sip your coffee standing at a bar, linger over lunch, wander without a map, and pause at every miradouro. Here, luxury isn’t just five-star hotels or Michelin dining — it’s the feeling of being fully immersed in a city that blends history, design, and effortless style.
