What started out as a joke became a very real way of navigating a city that keeps your step count over 20,000, and has no shortage of inclines. Lisbon can be an intimidating city, but keeping these 5 tips in mind can relieve that stress.
1. Appreciate cafe culture
Coffee and Café culture are a huge part of the Portuguese lifestyle. Originating from the 18th century, coffee has become ingrained into everyday life for locals. There is no better place than to enjoy coffee at one of the endless cafés that line the beautiful streets of Lisbon.
2. Listen to your body and take breaks
Those hills aren’t getting any shorter. While traveling, it can be extremely tempting to keep go-go-going day in and day out, however your body will eventually demand a break. Break up a long walk by popping into stores that catch your eye, spotting your favorite azulejos, and peaking around building walls to spot a yellow tram. When your time in a city is limited it can become second nature to run from point a to point b, but sometimes the journey in between is the best part.
3. Plan on Going to Restful Places
Parks—a personal favorite of mine. Lisbon has so many beautiful green areas to break up your day. You can bring snacks and enjoy a picnic, catch up on reading/journaling, or break out a deck of cards. Parks are a great way to people watch and enjoy the “slow living” culture.
Beaches—perfect for a hot day. Whether you head to a beach town like Cascais, or find a beach right on the edge of Lisbon, enjoying the sunshine (or the shade if you’re like me) and the waves crashing down on the sand does wonders for morale.
4. spot the bench
While walking in crowded areas such as Chiado it can be hard to find places to rest—such as when you’re looking for a spot to regroup and make a plan, or enjoy a quick bite to-go. Typically benches in crowded areas are fully occupied, but that isn’t always a negative. It opens the door to try out a new cafe, or utilize seats in the metro stations when waiting for the next train.
5. enjoy the rest—and do it with a friend
Don’t be afraid to make a makeshift bench. In fact, some of the best photos come from taking a seat where a seat is unexpected. Take the time to enjoy those moments of rest and relaxation with a friend. Use the time to appreciate the views, as well as the company.
Over my time in Lisbon I’ve certainly gotten better at climbing hills and stairs, and stairs and hills. However, while I may have gotten better I certainly have not mastered it. While the idea of “where is the bench?” started off as a running joke between me and my friends, learning to enjoy slow travel and getting creative with finding ways to be #sat has done nothing but improve my time in the city.
Leave a Reply