Things To Do
Padrão dos Descobrimentos
On your tour of the Belém area of Lisbon, you’ll come across the beautiful marble “Discovery Statue” jutting out over the Targus River. Examine both sides to see some familiar faces who sailed around the world.
Belém Tower
Also in Belém is the Tower, which provides picturesque views of the Targus River meeting the Atlantic Ocean. A beautiful sunset can also be seen from this spot.
Pastéis de Belém
Portugal is famous for its “pasteis de nata” snacks, which are flaky filo mini-pies filled with a delicate lemon and cinnamon flavored cream. The very best of these comes from the original bakery, Pastéis de Belém, whose secret recipe dates back to the days of the nuns at the ancient Jerónimos Monastery.
Baixa de Lisboa
If you want a true feel of Lisbon, spend an hour strolling around Baixa and the surrounding streets filled with great shopping, where you can see the city slope gently down to the lapping water of the Targus. Baixa holds the large yellow square which was home to the original Portuguese royal palace before the structure burnt and crumbled due to the effects of the 1755 earthquake and fires.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
After a night out in Barrio Alto, take a stroll to this lookout point and see the city of Lisbon sprawled before you, with a great view of the castle across the valley.
Sintra
Portugal is home to many mini mansions, most of which we’d classify as little palaces. Up in the cool mountains of Sintra, Lisboners built second homes fit for royalty. Enjoy the drive up the mountainside and keep your eyes peeled for tourettes poking through the trees. Note, it is usually quite cooler in Sintra than in Lisbon - we recommend bringing a sweater, even in summer.
Oceanário de Lisboa
You may not have an aquarium at the top of your travel bucket list, but if you have small children or the misfortune of a rainy day in Lisbon, we promise you won’t be disappointed with your visit to the Lisbon Oceanario, home to over 8,000 sea creatures and 500 marine species. One of the bride and groom’s first (rainy) dates was spent here, and still ranks as one of their favorite!
Sanctuary of Christ the King
Take a drive over the famous 25th of April bridge or enjoy a ferry ride over the river, and experience the imposing wonder of the Christ the King statue standing proud over Lisbon. Cost is 6 euro per person, and it’s exact change cash only. The view from the top is incredible.
Cascais
If you’re in the mood for a scenic car or train ride, a lovely afternoon could be spent traveling about an hour from Lisbon to Cascais along the Targus River out to the Atlantic. Enjoy some sandy beaches, old castles and delicious restaurants as you stroll around the picturesque downtown of Cascais.
RESTAURANTS
Lisbon boasts amazing food across the city, but here are a few of the bride and groom’s recommended spots: Pinóquio, Solar dos Presuntos, A Marisqueria do Lis, Cervejaria Ramiro