World Of Wanderlust

Imagine stepping into a storybook when you arrive in the enchanting capital of Portugal. As the oldest capital in Europe, Lisbon captivates visitors with its incredible architecture. The city is adorned with magnificent, centuries-old buildings and stunning medieval masterpieces. While everyone knows about São Jorge Castle and Lisbon’s iconic bright-colored trams, the city also hides numerous secret spots waiting to be discovered. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to ten of Lisbon’s best hidden gems that you simply must add to your travel itinerary. Trust me, each one is extraordinary and unforgettable!

Hidden Gems of Lisbon – An Overview:

1. Campo Pequeno
2. Museo Nacional do Azulejo
3. Jardim do Torel
4. Monastery São Vicente de Fora
5. Estufa Fria
6. Museo do Fado
7. Mercado de Campo de Ourique
8. Cafe de São Bento
9. Carvoaria Jacto
10. Arkhe

Campo Pequeno

This striking brick-red building is breathtaking from the outside, but the real surprise lies within. Dating back to 1892, Campo Pequeno is Portugal’s first bullfighting ring. Its dazzling Neo-Arabic architecture makes it one of the most beautiful bullfighting rings in the world. Despite being less known among tourists, locals adore this spot as a perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink. Today, Campo Pequeno is more than just a bullfighting ring; it houses restaurants, bars, and an underground market.

Museo Nacional do Azulejo

Art enthusiasts will find joy in this hidden gem! The Museo Nacional do Azulejo, or National Tile Museum, is adorned with thousands of exquisite tiles. Featuring an opulent collection of Portuguese tiles, or azulejos, this museum offers a feast for the eyes with its beautiful blue-and-white tile walls. The history is equally captivating as the museum was originally a convent built by Queen D. Leonor in 1509. Expect to find many religious tiles and structures, along with beautiful carvings, paintings, and gold-tinted cloisters.

Jardim do Torel

Nestled in Lisbon, Jardim do Torel is an idyllic retreat for relaxation. This 19th-century garden boasts timeless beauty with its fairytale-like buildings, vintage viewpoints, and shady trees. Filled with park benches, it offers visitors plenty of space to sit and unwind. Located on higher ground, the park is accessible via the Lavra lift, Lisbon’s oldest lift, adding a unique touch to your visit.

Monastery São Vicente de Fora

Lisbon is full of remarkable churches and historical buildings, and the Monastery São Vicente de Fora stands out among them. Built in the 17th-century, this stunning monastery is designed in the Renaissance style and decorated with eye-catching azulejos. Despite being a hidden gem, it is easy to visit as it lies in the historical center of Lisbon, close to the famous São Jorge Castle.

Estufa Fria

Seeking a cool, quiet escape from Lisbon’s hustle and bustle? Head to Estufa Fria, or the “Cold Greenhouse.” Located in Parque Eduardo VII and built in 1933, this beautiful botanical garden offers a serene haven. Estufa Fria features three distinct gardens: Estufa Fria (Cold Greenhouse), Estufa Quente (Hot Greenhouse), and Estufa Doce (Sweet Greenhouse). Each garden houses unique plant species from around the globe, as well as quaint pools, fishponds, and intricate statues.

Museo do Fado

Explore the rich history of Portugal’s famed fado music at the Museo do Fado. Situated in Alfama, a popular tourist area in Lisbon, this hidden gem remains off the beaten path. The museum features a permanent collection of fado music, including guitars and paintings, and boasts a large auditorium for mini-concerts and musical performances. It’s a cultural haven for anyone interested in history and music.

Mercado de Campo de Ourique

Prepare for a culinary adventure at this delightful local market! Mercado de Campo de Ourique is lined with stalls offering high-quality delicacies. From traditional Portuguese foods like petiscos and pastel to international dishes like sushi and pizza, this market has it all. It also sells fresh produce ranging from vegetables to meat. Quieter and cozier than the famous Mercado da Ribera, this market provides a more authentic experience.

Cafe de São Bento

If you’re on the hunt for a fine dining experience in Lisbon, Cafe de São Bento is a must-visit. This Victorian-inspired restaurant is known for its sumptuous steaks, considered by many to be the best in town. Easily located with its bright-red banners, the restaurant offers an opulent setting with an ambiance that impresses everyone who visits.

Carvoaria Jacto

For authentic Portuguese cuisine, head to Carvoaria Jacto. This modern steakhouse, favored by locals, specializes in Portuguese-style steaks, seafood, and traditional dishes. The restaurant’s flavors are outstanding, making it a wonderful place to savor authentic Portuguese food in a relaxing atmosphere.

Arkhe

Vegans will adore Arkhe, one of Lisbon’s top plant-based restaurants. Known for its sophisticated and creative dishes, Arkhe offers an array of vegetarian and vegan meals prepared like fine dining courses. The restaurant also features a great selection of wines and has earned a spot in the Michelin guide, guaranteeing high-quality dining.

So, those are some of Lisbon’s hidden gems, each offering unique experiences and wonders. One of the best ways to explore them is by joining group trips or traveling with locals who know the city inside out. With JoinMyTrip, you can discover extraordinary hidden spots, secret restaurants, and more, all guided by experienced travelers and locals, ensuring you have an unforgettable adventure in Portugal.