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The Elsewhere Guide

Lisbon, Portugal

Fado, pastéis de nata, and hills that earn the view

Europe March–May, September–October $100–$200/day

Lisbon is a city that dances on the edge of the Atlantic, where the old-world charm of cobblestone streets meets the cutting-edge of modern gastronomy. Here, vibrant tiles catch the sunlight as Fado music drifts through the Alfama. It's a city of secrets, waiting to be unveiled in the luxurious embrace of its finest establishments.

Best time to go

Spring (March to May) is the ideal time to visit Lisbon. The city awakens with blooming jacarandas, and the weather is perfectly mild, avoiding the summer's tourist crush.

Where to Stay

The Icon

Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon

Avenida da Liberdade

$1,500 /night

This palatial hotel offers panoramic views of the city, with opulent rooms and a rooftop fitness center that overlooks the Tagus River.

Why we love it: The private art collection, curated from Portugal's rich cultural tapestry, is an exclusive cultural journey within the hotel.

The Boutique Gem

Verride Palácio Santa Catarina

Bairro Alto

$1,200 /night

A meticulously restored 18th-century palace with just 19 rooms, offering personalized luxury and stunning views of the city and river.

Why we love it: The rooftop terrace pool offers a serene escape with one of the best sunset views in Lisbon.

The Hideaway

Santiago de Alfama - Boutique Hotel

Alfama

$1,000 /night

Nestled in the historic Alfama district, this intimate hotel offers a blend of classic charm and modern comfort, with a focus on personalized service.

Why we love it: Its location allows guests to wander the soulful streets of Alfama, immersing in the authentic spirit of Lisbon.

Seven Days in Lisbon

Day 1

The Soul of Lisbon

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Indulge in a gourmet breakfast at the Ritz's Varanda Restaurant, overlooking Eduardo VII Park.

Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon

💡 Order the pastel de nata with a touch of cinnamon.

restaurant
Morning 10:00 AM

Private guided tour of the Alfama district, exploring the labyrinthine streets and visiting the Lisbon Cathedral.

Alfama

💡 Ask your guide about the hidden viewpoints for the best cityscape photos.

private tour
🍽
Lunch 1:00 PM

Savor a leisurely lunch at Belcanto, where Chef José Avillez's two Michelin-starred creations await.

Belcanto

💡 The 'Garden of the Goose that Laid the Golden Eggs' is a must-try dish.

restaurant
Afternoon 3:30 PM

Explore the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, with its impressive collection of art from ancient to modern times.

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

💡 Don't miss the serene gardens surrounding the museum.

museum
🌙
Evening 7:00 PM

Dine at Alma, a two Michelin-starred restaurant known for its innovative Portuguese cuisine.

Alma

💡 Request the tasting menu for a full experience of Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa's talents.

restaurant

Start your journey with a deep dive into Lisbon's historic heart, where tradition meets innovation.

Day 2

The Art of Lisbon

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Breakfast in the sun-drenched courtyard of your hotel, enjoying fresh pastries and Portuguese coffee.

Santiago de Alfama - Boutique Hotel

restaurant
Morning 9:30 AM

Private tour of the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) with an art historian.

MAAT

💡 The rooftop offers stunning views of the river and city.

private tour
🍽
Lunch 12:30 PM

Lunch at Feitoria, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a creative take on traditional Portuguese flavors.

Feitoria

💡 Pair your meal with a selection from the impressive wine list.

restaurant
Afternoon 3:00 PM

Visit the Berardo Collection Museum, showcasing modern and contemporary art from Warhol to Picasso.

Berardo Collection Museum

💡 Look for temporary exhibitions that often feature renowned international artists.

museum
🌙
Evening 6:30 PM

Dinner at Eleven, perched in Edward VII Park, offering panoramic views and a gourmet menu.

Eleven

💡 Book a table by the window for the best view of the city lights.

restaurant

Immerse yourself in Lisbon's vibrant art scene, from cutting-edge architecture to classic masterpieces.

Day 3

The Taste of Lisbon

Breakfast 9:00 AM

Breakfast at the Time Out Market, sampling gourmet offerings from Lisbon's top chefs.

Time Out Market

💡 Try the croissants at Manteigaria Silva.

market
Morning 11:00 AM

Private cooking class with a renowned Portuguese chef, learning to make traditional dishes.

Lisbon Cooking Academy

💡 Inquire about local market visits for fresh ingredients.

culinary
🍽
Lunch 2:30 PM

Enjoy your culinary creations with a glass of Portuguese wine.

Lisbon Cooking Academy

💡 Don't miss the chance to learn about the local wine pairings.

culinary
Afternoon 4:30 PM

Explore the historic district of Chiado with a private guide, focusing on its rich culinary history.

Chiado

💡 Visit iconic cafes where literary figures once gathered.

private tour
🌙
Evening 7:00 PM

Dinner at A Cevicheria, known for its innovative take on Peruvian and Portuguese flavors.

A Cevicheria

💡 The octopus hot dog is a house specialty.

restaurant

A day dedicated to indulging in Lisbon's culinary delights, from hands-on experiences to gourmet dining.

Day 4

The Royal Retreat

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel with a selection of Portuguese delicacies and fresh fruit.

Verride Palácio Santa Catarina

restaurant
Morning 9:30 AM

Private tour of the Palácio Nacional de Queluz, an exquisite 18th-century royal palace.

Palácio Nacional de Queluz

💡 Explore the lush gardens, a serene escape from the city's bustle.

private tour
🍽
Lunch 1:00 PM

Lunch at the Quinta da Regaleira, a majestic estate known for its romantic gardens and Gothic architecture.

Quinta da Regaleira

💡 Try the estate's homemade pastries.

restaurant
Afternoon 3:30 PM

Explore the ornate gardens and mysterious grottoes of Quinta da Regaleira with a private guide.

Quinta da Regaleira

💡 The Initiation Well is a must-see architectural wonder.

private tour
🌙
Evening 7:00 PM

Dinner at the Belcanto, returning to savor more of Chef Avillez's two Michelin-starred offerings.

Belcanto

💡 Reserve the chef's table for an interactive dining experience.

restaurant

Escape to the opulence of Portugal's royal past, discovering the grandeur of its palaces and estates.

Day 5

Beyond the City Walls

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast buffet at the hotel, with an array of international and local options.

Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon

restaurant
Morning 9:00 AM

Private day trip to Sintra, exploring the fairytale palaces and lush landscapes with an expert guide.

Sintra

💡 The Pena Palace offers breathtaking views over the surrounding forests.

private tour
🍽
Lunch 1:30 PM

Lunch at Lawrence's Hotel, the oldest hotel on the Iberian Peninsula, offering classic Portuguese dishes.

Lawrence's Hotel

💡 The bacalhau à Brás is a traditional favorite.

restaurant
Afternoon 3:00 PM

Continue exploring Sintra's enchanting landscapes, including the Moorish Castle and Quinta da Regaleira.

Sintra

💡 Wear comfortable shoes for the hilly terrain.

private tour
🌙
Evening 7:00 PM

Return to Lisbon for a relaxed dinner at Solar dos Presuntos, a beloved institution for traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Solar dos Presuntos

💡 Ask for the daily specials for the freshest seafood options.

restaurant

A day to explore the mystical allure of Sintra, the perfect balance of nature and nobility.

Day 6

The Atlantic's Edge

Breakfast 8:00 AM

Breakfast with a view at the hotel, enjoying fresh pastries and the morning light over the city.

Verride Palácio Santa Catarina

restaurant
Morning 9:30 AM

Private yacht cruise along the coast, offering stunning views of Lisbon from the water.

Tagus River

💡 The early morning light is perfect for photography.

experience
🍽
Lunch 12:30 PM

Seafood lunch at Mar do Inferno in Cascais, renowned for its fresh catches and ocean views.

Mar do Inferno

💡 The grilled sea bass is a standout dish.

restaurant
Afternoon 2:30 PM

Explore the charming coastal town of Cascais with a private guide, visiting its quaint old town and beaches.

Cascais

💡 Don't miss the Boca do Inferno, a dramatic cliff formation.

private tour
🌙
Evening 7:00 PM

Return to Lisbon for dinner at 100 Maneiras, where Chef Ljubomir Stanisic presents a modern take on Portuguese cuisine.

100 Maneiras

💡 Opt for the tasting menu to experience the full range of flavors.

restaurant

Today, experience the allure of the Atlantic, from the luxury of a private yacht to the charm of coastal towns.

Day 7

Lisbon's Hidden Jewels

Breakfast 8:30 AM

Final breakfast at the hotel, savoring a selection of pastries and freshly squeezed juices.

Santiago de Alfama - Boutique Hotel

restaurant
Morning 10:00 AM

Private tour of the National Tile Museum, exploring the art of azulejos, a quintessentially Portuguese craft.

National Tile Museum

💡 The church within the museum is a hidden gem.

private tour
🍽
Lunch 12:30 PM

Lunch at Ramiro, a legendary seafood institution loved by locals and travelers alike.

Ramiro

💡 Finish with a prego steak sandwich for dessert, a local tradition.

restaurant
Afternoon 2:30 PM

Stroll through the elegant streets of Príncipe Real, browsing high-end boutiques and local artisan shops.

Príncipe Real

💡 Visit Embaixada, a concept store housed in a historic palace.

experience
🌙
Evening 7:00 PM

Farewell dinner at the Michelin-starred Loco, where Chef Alexandre Silva offers a sensory dining experience.

Loco

💡 The wine pairing enhances the tasting menu beautifully.

restaurant

Conclude your Lisbon adventure by uncovering its hidden jewels, from artisanal crafts to culinary masterpieces.

The Table

Restaurants that define the destination.

Belcanto

✦✦

Chef José Avillez's two Michelin-starred creations are both innovative and deeply rooted in Portuguese tradition.

lunch $$$$

Alma

✦✦

Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa's innovative Portuguese cuisine has earned two Michelin stars for its creativity and flavor.

dinner $$$$

Eleven

Perched in Edward VII Park, it offers panoramic views alongside a gourmet menu.

dinner $$$$

A Cevicheria

Known for its innovative fusion of Peruvian and Portuguese flavors, it's a culinary adventure.

dinner $$$

Mar do Inferno

Renowned for its fresh seafood and stunning ocean views in Cascais.

lunch $$$

100 Maneiras

Chef Ljubomir Stanisic offers a modern take on Portuguese cuisine with a creative flair.

dinner $$$$

Ramiro

A legendary seafood institution where the locals dine.

lunch $$$

Loco

Chef Alexandre Silva offers a sensory dining experience with a Michelin star to its name.

dinner $$$$

Make It Extraordinary

Experiences beyond the obvious.

private tour

Private Yacht Cruise

Sail along the Tagus River on a private yacht, taking in the stunning views of Lisbon from the water.

culinary

Cooking Class with a Portuguese Chef

Learn to make traditional Portuguese dishes in a hands-on class with a renowned local chef.

cultural

Art and Architecture Tour of MAAT

Explore the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology with an art historian, delving into its design and exhibits.

nightlife

Fado Music Night

Experience the soulful sounds of Fado in an authentic Lisbon tavern, where music and emotion intertwine.

nature

Sintra Day Trip

Discover the fairytale palaces and lush landscapes of Sintra on a private guided tour.

cultural

Exploring Príncipe Real

Wander through Lisbon's chicest neighborhood, browsing high-end boutiques and artisan shops.

Lisbon is a city of contrasts, where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. From its vibrant culinary scene to its rich cultural heritage, Lisbon offers an opulent escape into a world of elegance and discovery. May your journey be as enchanting as the city itself.

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