Lisbon Lowdown: Numbers, Nests & Narrow Streets
okay, so i just landed in lisbon. honestly, the air smells like salt and… something vaguely floral? i'm still figuring it out. it's a bit chaotic, like a really good thrift store, but with less questionable stains. the weather? i just checked and it's… there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. a little bit cloudy, a little bit breezy, feels like late spring. it's surprisingly warm though, almost a day in the south.
i’m totally winging this trip. figured i'd just drop in and see what happens. got a vague idea of what i want to do, but the plan is looking pretty fluid right now. *Lisbon itself isn’t exactly a hidden gem; it’s popular, yes, but it’s a popular good kind of popular. the vibe is just… old soul meets modern cool. think cobblestone streets that wind up hills, laundry hanging between buildings, and a constant soundtrack of Fado music drifting from open windows.
so, first impressions. the city is built on seven hills. seriously. i’m already doing a lot of walking. my calves are screaming. and the hills are steep. but the views from the top are worth it. i spent a solid hour just wandering around Alfama, the oldest district, getting completely lost and enjoying the little cafes.
i heard that… someone told me that the best pastéis de nata (custard tarts) are at Pastéis de Belém, but it’s always mobbed. so i’m going to try a different bakery. apparently, there’s a tiny little place tucked away in the Bairro Alto that’s legendary. i’ll report back. and don't even get me started on the trams. they’re… characters.
seriously, the people here are incredibly friendly. everyone seems to be in a good mood. i spotted a guy reading a book on a park bench and a woman sketching in a cafe. it’s the kind of place where you can just… be. if you get bored, Cascais is just a short train ride away, a lovely coastal town. and further out, you've got the Serra da Estrela mountains.
Pro-tip:* learn a few basic Portuguese phrases. it goes a long way. and don’t be afraid to get lost. that’s half the fun, right? i've already stumbled upon some seriously cool little shops and hidden courtyards.
i'm planning on checking out São Jorge Castle tomorrow. i heard that… someone warned me about the crowds there, especially on weekends. so, maybe i’ll go early. also, i’m really craving some good coffee. i have a feeling i’ll be spending a lot of time at cafes.