May 2023
Our second day in Lisbon was amazing! So many new and different flavors, sights, and sounds that left us completely enchanted by the city’s vibrant culture and culinary scene. From bustling markets to charming cafes and lively bars, we embarked on an adventure that introduced us to the heart and soul of Portugal. I’ve said this so many times to people since we’ve got back, “We knew that we’d like Portugal, but weren’t not prepared to fall in love with it as much as we did!” Here’s a recap of our delicious and unforgettable day.
Breakfast at Augusto Lisboa
We started our day at Augusto Lisboa, a breakfast spot I’d been eyeing since we booked our flights for Portugal! Augusta Lisboa is a charming breakfast spot located in the heart of Lisbon. This cafe offers the best start to your day with its inviting ambiance and delicious menu, IT IS SO CUTE IN THERE!
Augusta Lisboa is renowned for its freshly baked pastries, including traditional pastéis de nata, as well as a variety of artisanal breads and croissants. The cafe also serves a range of hearty breakfast options, from classic scrambled eggs with chorizo to avocado toast. We tried the two different kinds of avocado toast, which we absolutely loved and a salad with fresh fish. SO GOOD. They also have great brewed coffee and fresh juices. Everything we had was fresh and delicious and I definitely recommend making a stop here when you’re in Lisbon.
Exploring Mercado de Santa Clara
Our next stop was Mercado de Santa Clara, a lively market where locals gather to buy a mix of fresh produce, antiques, and handmade goods. We made our way through the many of the stalls, marveling at the Portuguese cuisine and art.
I also bought some beautiful pottery and earrings—there was so much to choose from! Also, although we had just had coffee, it seemed like the perfect spot to grab a morning coffee and people-watch as the market buzzed with life.
Mercado de Santa Clara is typically open on Tuesdays and Saturdays. It operates from around 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on these days, but it’s always a good idea to double-check the hours before visiting as they can vary slightly.
Wine Tasting and Appetizers at By The Wine Lisboa
No visit to Lisbon would be complete without sampling the country’s famous wines, so we made our way to By The Wine Lisboa, a chic wine bar nestled in the heart of the city. We were treated to a tasting of some of Portugal’s finest vintages, from crisp Vinho Verde to full-bodied Douro reds. Each glass told a story of the land and the people who crafted it, offering a glimpse into the rich winemaking traditions of the region. We knew we’d bring some bottles back with us, but we brought back way more than planned because we loved that wine that much!
We also had some delicious cured meats and cheeses before we made out way to watch the sunset!
Sunset Cocktails at Bairro Alto Lisboa
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Bairro Alto, one of Lisbon’s most vibrant neighborhoods known for its lively nightlife and eclectic mix of bars and restaurants. We found ourselves at Bairro Alto Lisboa, a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and the river below. The service was great, and we had a blast trying a few local cocktails. With the city lights sparkling below, we kicked back, sipped our drinks, and soaked in the laid-back, fun atmosphere. It was the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring.
Dinner and Fado at Versículo do Faia
We made out way to Versículo do Faia, a charming restaurant tucked away in the winding streets of Alfama, we found ourselves immersed in both the rich flavors and culture of Portugal. The cozy, intimate setting, with its rustic décor and candlelit tables, made it feel like a hidden gem. As we dined on classic Portuguese dishes like tender grilled octopus and bacalhau, the famous salted cod, we savored every bite. Each dish was bursting with fresh, local ingredients and seasoned to perfection, offering a true taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine.
We were then invited to the other side of the restaurant for dessert and to experience Fado, Portugal’s traditional folk music. As we enjoyed our crème brûlée and port, the Fado singers performed, their voices filling the air with heartfelt emotion. The music created a memorable atmosphere, adding a beautiful touch to our evening and providing a wonderful blend of Portuguese food, music, and culture.
Nightcap at Toca De Raposa
To finish off our day of culinary delights, we headed to Toca De Raposa, a cozy bar known for its craft cocktails and laid-back atmosphere. While we enjoyed expertly mixed drinks, we couldn’t help but notice that the crowd was a bit younger, and we were definitely the oldest by about a decade. Despite that, we loved reflecting on our day and savoring each sip of our delicious cocktails. It was the perfect, relaxed end to a day full of new experiences and discoveries.
As we looked back on our second day in Lisbon, we couldn’t help but smile at all we had experienced in just one day. From the bustling market to the lively bars and restaurants, each moment had been a celebration of Portugal’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant cultural scene.
On day three, we’ll be heading to the coast for more adventures—so stay tuned for all the details! In the meantime, feel free to explore my other blog posts here for more travel inspiration and tips!
