Lisbon Uncovered: The City of Tiles, Trams, and Hidden Rooftop Bars

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Lisbon Uncovered: The City of Tiles, Trams, and Hidden Rooftop Bars

Published

Nov 13, 2025

Lisbon has that rare mix of history and ease — a city where 18th-century tiled buildings meet modern cafés serving oat milk lattes. It’s one of Europe’s sunniest capitals, but what makes it truly special is the rhythm: slow mornings, long lunches, and golden evenings that stretch into music-filled nights. Here’s how to explore Lisbon like a local, not a rushed tourist.

1. Start With the View (and a Coffee)

Lisbon is built on seven hills, which means almost every neighborhood has a miradouro — a lookout point with a breathtaking view. Locals love:

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: The highest and most panoramic.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia: Overlooks Alfama’s red rooftops and the river.
Portas do Sol: A great spot for sunrise coffee or sunset drinks.

Pair your view with a bica (Portuguese espresso) or galão (milky coffee) from a nearby kiosk café.

2. Ride Tram 28 — But Be Smart About It

Yes, it’s touristy — but also iconic. Tram 28 rattles through Lisbon’s most scenic streets, from Baixa to Alfama.
Pro tip: Catch it early in the morning or from less busy stops like Campo de Ourique to avoid the long queues near Martim Moniz.

Or skip the crowds entirely and take Tram 12E, which covers similar sights but with fewer passengers.

3. Wander Through Alfama

Lisbon’s oldest district is a maze of narrow alleys, colorful tiles, and laundry hanging from balconies. It’s also the heart of fado, Portugal’s soulful music. Go in the evening and follow the sound of live guitar to a small restaurant like Clube de Fado or Tasca do Chico.

During the day, climb up to Castelo de São Jorge for sweeping views — or just get lost in Alfama’s charm.

4. Eat Like a Lisboeta

Portuguese food is simple but deeply satisfying. Must-tries include:

Bacalhau à Brás: Salt cod scrambled with eggs, potatoes, and onions.
Bifana: A garlicky pork sandwich best eaten standing at a counter.
Sardines: Grilled fresh during summer festivals.
Pastel de nata: The famous custard tart — best from Pastéis de Belém or Manteigaria.

Pair your meal with a glass of vinho verde (light green wine) or ginginha (cherry liqueur).

5. Find the Rooftops Locals Actually Go To

Forget the overpriced hotel bars. Lisbon’s independent rooftop spots have some of the best views in Europe:

Park Bar: Hidden on top of a parking garage in Bairro Alto.
Topo Chiado: Overlooks the Santa Justa Lift and the city center.
Lost In: A bohemian terrace with cocktails and city views.

Evenings here are long, lazy, and best enjoyed with pastel skies and live music.

6. Take a Day Trip (Or Two)

Lisbon is perfectly placed for short adventures:

Sintra: A fairytale town filled with colorful palaces (don’t miss Pena Palace).
Cascais: A seaside escape just 40 minutes by train.

Setúbal: Great seafood and fewer tourists.