About this experience
I will introduce you to the historical intricacies of the old districts, take you to the most interesting viewpoints, and show the city from the best perspectives. I will reveal the charm of authentic cuisine and drinks, tell you about the mentality of the Portuguese, help you understand what Lisbon lives for, and what Portuguese happiness consists of.
What to Expect
To immerse yourself in the atmosphere of old Lisbon, you need to explore it on foot - only in this way, getting lost in colorful alleys, inhaling the aromas of coffee and freshly washed laundry, capturing the sounds of the yellow tram and the cries of seagulls, you will succeed. And accompanied by my stories about the history and culture of the city, these impressions will gain depth and meaning.
Legendary Alfama
The walk will start under the Triumphal Arch, from where we will move to Commerce Square. Here you will hear about the fall of the most powerful empire, the destroyed palace, and the period of the city's recovery. You will stroll through the narrow streets of Alfama and see the walls with bright tiles. The picturesque viewpoint Santa Luzia with panoramic views of the city will transport you to the world of medieval legends. You will learn why Lisbon is called the city of 7 hills and where the name of the district originates. I will tell you about the musical symbol of Portugal born here - fado. And near the Cathedral - about the religiousness of the Portuguese, the spiritual patron of the capital, and the local feast of All Saints.
Colorful Mouraria
In the district where immigrants from all over the world live, we will talk about how traditions are born. As you admire the colorful facades, you will learn about the decor that emerged from these quarters - "Portuguese mudéjar", combining features of European and Islamic art. I will also show you houses that survived during the earthquake and the most beautiful house in Lisbon decorated with azulejos.
Elegant Chiado
Being in this elegant district, you will hear about a killer who became a saint, and learn about the past of the quarter, which over the centuries has been a refuge for the city's poor, a center of religious life, and a favorite place of the intellectual elite. And near Cafe Benard and Brasileira, we will talk about the history of iconic establishments and their visitors from high society.
Baixa and Rossio
In Baixa, you will, of course, see the neo-Gothic city Santa Justa Lift, but you will get to it by a secret path used by locals. And in Rossio Square, you will admire the building of the eponymous station, discover the features of the 18th-century Pombaline architectural style, and walk on the "Portuguese pavement" - a mosaic with a volumetric optical effect, decorating Rossio.
Interesting Facts about Lisbon Over a Glass of Wine
I will gladly show you my favorite place where amidst breathtaking landscapes you can relax with a glass of delicate green wine or aromatic coffee. And meanwhile, we will talk about the city's secrets and its unusual corners. Here is what we will discuss:
- The top 9 Portuguese people whose names are known worldwide;
- The top 9 things from 10 to 100 euros worth buying in Portugal;
- The top 9 Portuguese habits;
- 12 types of Portuguese queues and how to properly stand in them;
- Amazing quirks of Portugal that are found only here;
- What life was like and is like for women in Portugal;
- Where the smallest shop is hidden;
- With what achievement Portugal entered the Guinness Book of Records;
- The truth about sinful Portugal (during the tour, you will visit an old brothel-turned-cafe);
- Fascinating legends and the brightest local holidays.
🍮 🍸 Additionally, we will not overlook cherry liqueur ginjinha, the urban food market where you can try local wines: the famous Vinho Verde, port wine, and Madeira fortified wine. I will tell you about the peculiarities of the production and consumption of drinks. Here you will also taste the most delicious pastel de nata pastries in the city and learn how locals eat them and why in this particular way.
Organizational Details
- Wear comfortable shoes and don't forget to apply sunscreen (in winter and summer)
- The tour proceeds at your pace
- Additional expenses: drinks (wine ~4 euros/glass, shot of ginjinha 1 euro, coffee ~ 1.5 euros)
- During or at the end of the walk, I will answer any questions: where else to go, which cities to visit, what to try in which restaurants, how to get where, where to listen to the legendary fado, which bar to visit, and how to organize leisure time