Lisbon Visual Diary: Part 3

After getting back to the centre from Belem (Part 2 of the Visual Diary), we took a rest on the Praça do Comércio, where we then continued towards Alfama, the oldest district in Lisbon. Full of narrow streets and authentic Portuguese atmosphere, Alfama is wonderful place to wander aimlessly with a scoop of gelato. When the evening draws near, you can just stop by to listen to some Fado, the Portuguese sorrow-minded music, that is said to have come from Alfama. The area is a bit rough on the edges, but you can find some of the most known Lisbon attraction from along the paths of Alfama, so definitely take some time to have a proper walk-around.

From Alfama, we made our way back to Praça do Comércio for the sunset. All the shades of blue and purple make it magical!

So in short, if you’re wondering how to take the most out of your trip to Lisbon, especially if you only have a couple of days, I’d totally recommend spending the morning in Belem and then taking a tram back to the centre and exploring the old part of Lisbon, Alfama, during the afternoon. It makes a nice, relaxed walk, but you get to see a lot.

From Alfama, you also get a chance to hop on the tram 28, the famous Lisbon tram that goes to all the important places. We got on it, but I must say, I wouldn’t do it again! I was sure I was going to die. The tram is tiny and seems to be full all through the day, so you will probably not find a seat. That leaves you standing in the middle of the tram or squished against the window with nothing to hold on to than other people’s seats and the flimsy handles that hang from the ceiling. Yikes! I did lose a shoe on that ride, as I kept falling on people uncontrollably. The tram moves FAST, so if your balance is as bad as mine or you’re as short as I am, which makes it hard for you to reach the handles on the ceiling, either skip the ride and just take nice photos of the tram from outside or wait until evening, when the 28 is a lot less busy. If you have no problem with crowded tiny spaces that move faster than light (even in corners!), the tram is a efficient way of seeing all the important sights in Lisbon.

One more Visual Diary to go! Enjoy your week guys!

xoxo,

Kara