📍 LX Factory: A Trendy and Vibrant Hub
One of the places I loved most in Lisbon was LX Factory. It’s like a small, alternative downtown full of life, creativity, and great energy. This cultural space, set in a renovated industrial area, has become one of the city’s most vibrant and modern hotspots.
You’ll find street art, independent bookstores (like the famous Ler Devagar), concept shops, design studios, live music bars, coworking spaces, and a very active local crowd. Everything feels creative and original, from the decorated doors to the old factory rooftops.
One of my favorite moments was enjoying a drink at the rooftop bar with a view of the 25 de Abril Bridge as the sun went down. That mix of industrial charm, urban art, and river scenery was magical.
🍽️ My Favorite Restaurants in Lisbon
- A Praça – Inside LX Factory. A mix of traditional Portuguese food and modern plates. We shared several tapas. Cozy and chill vibe.
- Taberna 1300 – Also at LX Factory. Great for a more elegant dinner. The bacalhau à Brás was amazing.
- Corrupio – Rua da Moeda 1. Loved the vibe and the staff. I had a codfish salad and a lamb rice dish that were both exceptional.
- Ramiro – A Lisbon classic known for fresh seafood. We had garlic clams, crab, and finished with the traditional prego sandwich.
- Zé da Mouraria – A traditional Portuguese tavern. Big, hearty portions and real local flavor.
🗓️ Day 1: Stroll Along the Tagus River
One of the most relaxing and beautiful moments was walking (and jogging a bit) along the Tagus River, from Cais do Sodré to Belém. Watching the boats, seeing couples sipping wine on benches, and just feeling the river breeze was pure bliss.
The route is filled with historic and cultural landmarks, but what stood out most was the peaceful, open-air atmosphere. I stopped several times just to take it all in.
🗌 Suggested Route:
- Cais do Sodré – Lively starting point, full of cafés.
- Ribeira das Naus – Great for relaxing by the water.
- Praça do Comércio – Wide and majestic plaza.
- MAAT & Central Tejo – Modern art meets history.
- 25 de Abril Bridge – Walking under it is breathtaking.
- Monument of the Discoveries – History meets photo ops.
- Belém Tower – A UNESCO icon.
- Champalimaud Foundation – Peaceful spot for sunset views.
You can also take a sunset boat ride, hop on a ferry to Cacilhas to visit Cristo Rei, or rent a scooter to go further. I walked, but I could’ve stayed there all evening.
🗓️ Day 2: Sunset at Miradouro da Graça + Evening Downtown
This was one of the most romantic and cozy days. We walked up to Miradouro da Graça, one of Lisbon’s top sunset spots. As the sky turned orange and pink, a street musician played soft tunes. It was a moment I’ll never forget.
Later, we wandered through:
- Piazza Rossio
- São Domingos Square
- Restauradores Square
The city was glowing: holiday markets, hanging lights, warm wine stalls, and street performers. We ended the night at Rosa da Rua, a buffet-style Portuguese restaurant. The food was rich and flavorful, and the sangria was the perfect finish.
🗓️ Day 3: Sintra – Pena Palace & Quinta da Regaleira
This day trip was like stepping into a fairy tale. Sintra, with its misty hills and palaces, felt otherworldly.
We took an Uber from Lisbon to Pena Palace (~€25–30). Since it was raining, we used the shuttle van at the entrance (€3 per ride) to reach the top.
Pena Palace was pure magic. Colorful, gothic, romantic, and royal. It was once the summer residence of the Portuguese royal family. Entrance is €14 and totally worth it for the palace and the gardens.
We walked back down and grabbed a tuk-tuk to Sintra’s town center (€5–7 per person). Lunch was delicious — I had duck, and it was one of my favorite meals of the trip.
Next stop: Quinta da Regaleira. Tickets were €10, and it’s a must-see. Mysterious gardens, underground tunnels, the famous Initiation Well — everything felt mystical and dreamlike.
🗓️ Day 4: Race Day – Across the Bridge & Celebration
The last day was super special: I ran a race that crossed the 25 de Abril Bridge. I woke up early and took the train to the starting area near Cristo Rei.
The vibe was incredible — runners from all over, music, cheers. Crossing the bridge on foot with views of Lisbon and the Tagus was an unforgettable highlight.
Post-race celebration included:
- 🥮 A warm pastel de nata (with cinnamon!)
- 🥪 A francesinha with fries
- 🍺 And a cold Portuguese beer
Tired but happy, we raised our glasses and soaked it all in.
💬 Final Thoughts
Lisbon is a city best explored with your eyes wide open, a camera in one hand, and a snack in the other. It has taste, rhythm, history, warmth, and something to surprise you at every corner.
If you go:
- ✅ Don’t miss LX Factory
- ✅ Try real Portuguese food (especially seafood and duck!)
- ✅ Walk or ride along the Tagus River
- ✅ Catch the sunset at Miradouro da Graça
- ✅ Take a day trip to Sintra
- ✅ Join or cheer at a local race
✨ Lisbon left me with deep memories, real smiles, and a longing to return. I’m sure it’ll steal your heart too. 🇵🇹