Lisbon’s a Blur: Rain, Pastel Buildings, and a Whole Lotta Lost Socks
okay, so i’m pretty sure i’m running on fumes and lukewarm espresso. 1012091250… seriously, what even is that number? it just keeps looping in my head like a broken record. i landed in lisbon yesterday, and honestly, it’s… a lot. like, a beautiful, chaotic, slightly damp lot. the air smells like salt and something vaguely floral, maybe jasmine? i just checked and it's...there right now, hope you like that kind of thing.
my hotel - which i found on booking.com, btw - is this tiny place near the miradouro da senhora do monte. it’s basically a glorified cupboard, but the view is insane. and the guy who runs it, antonio, keeps offering me little squares of pastel de nata. he’s a total character. he told me someone told him that the best place to find vintage scarves is down in the Alfama district - seriously, the rumors are wild here.
i spent the afternoon wandering around, mostly just getting lost. which, let’s be real, is my specialty. i stumbled upon this tiny little tile shop - it was incredible. the owner, maria, was showing me how they make the azulejos, and she kept saying, ‘it’s a family tradition, you know?’ like it was the most profound thing ever. i bought a ridiculously oversized blue one. it’s probably going to take up half my suitcase, but i couldn’t resist.
food-wise, i’ve been living on bifanas (pork sandwiches) and vinho verde. i found this amazing little tasca - ‘O Velho Eurico’ - on Yelp. it’s packed with locals, and the vibe is just… buzzing. i overheard a group of guys arguing about football and the price of sardines. it was glorious. someone told me that the best seafood is at the Time Out Market Lisboa, but honestly, i’m sticking with Eurico’s.
i’m trying to document everything, but my camera battery died about an hour ago. which is a tragedy, because i was just about to capture the perfect shot of the sunset over the tagus river. i’m relying on my phone, which is already threatening to overheat.
*gear list (because i’m a neurotic traveler):
Waterproof jacket (obviously)
Comfortable walking shoes (essential - my feet are already screaming)
Portable charger (a lifesaver)
Phrasebook (because my portuguese is… limited)
A ridiculously large tote bag (for all the souvenirs)
*pro-tip:* don’t try to climb the miradouro da senhora do monte in heels. trust me on this one.
if you get bored, porto is just a short drive away. i heard that they have amazing port wine. i’m already planning my escape route.
seriously, the rain started again. it’s this persistent, drizzly kind of rain that just seeps into your bones. it’s actually kind of cozy, in a depressing way. i’m heading to a little cafe to drown my sorrows in more espresso. maybe i’ll check out the LX Factory - it’s supposed to be cool, according to TripAdvisor.
i’m starting to think i need a new pair of socks. i’ve lost at least three already. it’s a Lisbon thing, i guess.
check out this map:
and if you’re looking for more Lisbon inspiration, head over to this local board: https://www.visitlisboa.com/en
and for a good place to grab a bite, this is a great Yelp review: https://www.yelp.com/
and finally, a little something for the vintage lovers: https://www.vintageportugal.com/