This past July, I embarked on an unforgettable girl’s trip with three friends that are now affectionately called my “travel buddies”. Our Portugal adventure began with a flight from St. John’s to Montreal, followed by an overnight journey to Lisbon. We had been planning our Girl’s Trip for nearly a year and we were so excited to finally be on our way! Lisbon, with its mix of history, culture, and charm, was the perfect starting point for our travels.
Convenient Luggage Storage with Luggit
After landing in Lisbon, we took full advantage of Luggit, a luggage storage and delivery service that made our arrival so smooth. Their excellent service meant we didn’t have to lug our bags around the city. Instead, they delivered them straight to our accommodation while we explored. Highly recommend if you’re arriving early and can’t check in yet!
Subway to the Heart of the City
From the airport, we hopped on the subway to the Restauradores stop, which was super easy and budget-friendly. Lisbon’s public transportation is incredibly efficient, and the subway is a great way to get into the city without dealing with traffic or taxis.
The Steep Climb Up Calçada da Glória
From Restauradores, we made our way to our accommodation, but not before tackling the infamous Calçada da Glória. This steep climb is no joke, and if you’re lugging bags or just not up for a workout, take my advice: wait for the lift! The funicular is charming and saves you from breaking a sweat before you’ve even started exploring.
Staying at Residentas São Pedro
For our three nights in Lisbon, we stayed at Residentas São Pedro, and it was absolutely wonderful. The location couldn’t have been better—close to everything yet tucked away in a peaceful corner. The rooms were spacious and beautifully designed, blending modern comfort with a touch of Portuguese charm. Plus, having a kitchenette was a bonus for morning coffee and late-night snacks and the view was stunning!
Amazing Walking Food Tour with Tipsy Tours
One of the highlights of our time in Lisbon was an amazing walking food tour with Tipsy Tours. We sampled so many local delights, like creamy pastéis de nata, flavorful bacalhau (salt cod - but not as good as mom’s in my opinion!), and spicy piri-piri chicken. Of course, no food tour would be complete without a taste of ginjinha, a sweet cherry liqueur that’s a Lisbon specialty. Our guide was knowledgeable and fun, making the experience both delicious and entertaining.
A Small Group Excursion to Sintra and Cascais
We also joined a small group excursion with Lisbon Riders to explore Sintra and Cascais, and it was nothing short of amazing. Visiting the fairytale-like Pena Palace in Sintra felt like stepping into another world. We stopped in Cascais for a leisurely lunch by the sea, where we enjoyed more piri-piri chicken and stunning ocean views. This day trip was the perfect way to see more of Portugal beyond Lisbon.
Exploring Jerónimos Monastery
Back in Lisbon, we made time to visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. The intricate details of the cloisters and the sheer scale of the building left us in awe. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site for good reason and a must-see when you’re in the city.
Reflections on Lisbon
So many awesome ideas and tips for a trip to Lisbon! Can’t wait to read more about your travels and get some inspo for upcoming trips!