With its lively night scene, many parks, numerous dining options and countless cultural activities, Lisbon ticks all the right boxes. Simply put, it’s a city where life is good. Even if you don’t set down your suitcases here for good, it’s definitely worth a weekend trip.
Cover photo: Tom Byrom
A concept store
Head to the Mouraria neighbourhood, in the south of the city, to find this shop specialised in Mediterranean crafts. While you might not be able to fit a handwoven Portuguese rug in your luggage, you can still choose lovely little ceramic cups or a beautiful book that retraces the history of the famous azulejo tiles.
Azul – R. São Cristóvão 7, 1100-514 Lisboa, Portugal
A local tavern
Although very traditional, the décor here gets a subtle twist with more modern touches. As for the dishes, they focus on Portuguese flavours and hearty fare. Our tip: arrive early or reserve your table well in advance.
O Velho Eurico – Largo São Cristóvão 3, 1100-179 Lisboa, Portugal
A sweet speciality
It’s difficult to spend a weekend in Lisbon without trying the famous pasteis de nata custard tarts. After checking out the Belém Tower, make a stop at Confeitaria Nacional, just steps away. This must-visit spot serves warm-from-the-oven pastries sprinkled with cinnamon.
Confeitaria Nacional – Praça da Figueira 18B, 1100-241 Lisboa, Portugal
A historic museum
To find out everything there is to know about the little earthenware tiles called azulejos, visit the national museum devoted to this very subject. Here, the history of these works of art enlivens the walls of a former cloister in the Beato neighbourhood. A great way to discover the immense collection of about 7,000 pieces and perhaps take home a small souvenir from the gift shop.
Museu Nacional do Azulejos – R. Me. Deus 4, 1900-312 Lisboa, Portugal
A pop bookstore
Enter Good Company and step into what looks like a Wes Anderson set, filled with wood and vibrant colours. The ultra-modern English book selection offers both contemporary works and older literature. The perfect plan? Buy your next book here and start it in the café.
Good Company – Av. Visc. de Valmor 2, 1000-291 Lisboa, Portugal
A modern hotel
Set up in a former 18th-century building, Santa Clara 1728 boasts a total of six rooms. An offer as minimalist as the décor, awash in soothing greys and beiges with wooden details to warm up the atmosphere. Bonus: the hotel has its own little garden, a special place to unwind before or after a long day exploring the city.
Santa Clara 1728 – Campo de Santa Clara 128, 1100-473 Lisboa, Portugal
Photo: Renée Kemps for Silent Living
American Vintage shops in Lisbon
Av. da Liberdade 11A, 1250-139 Lisboa, Portugal
R. Dom Pedro V 133, 1250-094 Lisboa, Portugal
El Corte Inglés Lisboa, Av. António Augusto de Aguiar 31, 3rd floor, 1069-413 Lisboa, Portugal
AMV Journal is a space dedicated to encounters, discovery and travel. Every week, explore the musts, portraits and inspirations of American Vintage and its creation studio.