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Lisbon & Sintra: A Portuguese Adventure
Lisbon is absolutely stunning! While everyone has their own preferences, I personally fell head over heels for this city. It's not too big, but it has everything you could want.
Lisbon's Charms:
Pros:
- Lovely People: The locals are incredibly friendly. Everyone I met was cheerful and spoke English well, making it easy to chat and learn about their culture.
- Foodie Paradise: The food scene is diverse, and the Vietnamese food here is amazing. If you want to know where I ate, leave a comment! Their bánh xèo is just like in Vietnam.
- Budget-Friendly: Prices are very reasonable, especially compared to Northern Europe. Even compared to Malaga, Lisbon often has better deals.
- Easy Transportation: Public transport is super convenient. You can buy travel cards from machines, with options for top-ups or 24/48-hour passes.
- Must-See Sights: There are tons of attractions. A quick Google search will reveal many, but here are a few favorites: the Oceanário de Lisboa, Timeout Market, Cabo da Roca, Arco da Rua Augusta, and the iconic trams.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Footwear: Leave the heels at home! I learned this the hard way on my first day. Even wedges with a slight platform were a killer. Lisbon is hilly, and walking around requires comfortable shoes. Trust me, your feet will thank you.
- Weather Wise: Depending on when you visit, bring a scarf or light jacket. Even when it's sunny, the sea breeze can be chilly.
- Plan Your Visit: I recommend spending at least three days in Lisbon, or even longer. There's so much to see! It's a popular destination, so plan your itinerary carefully to avoid long waits and potential missed sights.
- Flea Market Fun: If you're visiting on a Tuesday or Saturday, check out the massive Feira da Ladra flea market. You can find just about anything there!
Sintra: A Fairytale Escape
Sintra is a small town about 40 km from Lisbon, but it's worth a visit if you have the time. It boasts five castles, lush green scenery, and fresh, clean air. From there, you can also visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. Sintra can be explored in a day, but a two-day, one-night trip allows for a more relaxed pace and lets you fully appreciate its charm.
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