Lost in Lisbon – A Sun-Drenched Escape

By [Gunjan]

If you ever need a city Lisbon that whispers charm from every cobbled corner and feeds you pastéis de nata like it’s a love language, Lisbon is it. I spent five days wandering through Portugal’s sun-soaked capital, and it’s safe to say I left a little piece of my heart somewhere between Alfama’s winding streets and the waves of Cascais.

Day 1: First Impressions & Tram Rides

I arrived mid-morning, greeted by blue skies and the salty scent of the Tagus River. The iconic yellow Tram 28 rattled past just as I stepped out of the metro—a cinematic welcome. After dropping my bags, I walked up to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for panoramic views that made the hike worth every step. Tip: bring water and take breaks unless you enjoy sweating through your jeans.

Day 2: Time Travel in Alfama

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest district and feels like a living museum. I wandered aimlessly, which is the only way to explore this maze. I stumbled upon hidden cafes, street musicians playing melancholic Fado, and elderly locals chatting from their windows. Dinner was grilled sardines and vinho verde—simple, fresh, and unforgettable.

Day 3: Sintra – A Fairytale Getaway

Take the 40-minute train ride to Sintra. Just do it. Palácio da Pena looks like a castle built by a whimsical architect with a thing for bright colors and dramatic cliffs. Don’t skip the Quinta da Regaleira—it’s like a gothic playground for adults.

Day 4: Food, Tiles, and the Ocean

I took a tile-painting workshop in the morning (yes, that’s a thing), then hopped over to Belém for custard tarts at the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery. That evening, I sat on the rocks at Cascais watching surfers and the sunset, feeling like I had mastered life.

Day 5: Until Next Time

Lisbon is addictive. As I sipped my last espresso at a café in Bairro Alto, I knew I’d be back. There’s something about the way the city balances beauty and grit, tradition and trend, calm and chaos. It’s not perfect—but it’s perfect for travelers like me.