Things to do in Lisbon

Five days in Lisbon, Sintra and Cabo da Roca

I went to Lisbon in September 2021, just after my experience in Kyrgyzstan. After two months in Kyrgyzstan, I came back for two days at home in Budapest then left again for Lisbon. There I participated in a photographic project organised by Let Me Italian You; they organize events where people from different countries can share their passion for photography while discovering a city.

The program consisted of workshops, guided tours of the city and photoshoots, all in four days. Usually, I travel alone and I organise by myself the travel experience, but I like the way that Massimiliano and Gabriele from Let Me Italian You manage these projects and I support the concept.

Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is an entertaining blend of rich history, with a vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. With its colourful mosaic streets, historic neighbourhoods, and iconic tram system, Lisbon seamlessly fuses its traditional past with a modern and dynamic present. From exploring the narrow alleyways of Alfama, the city's oldest district, to basking in the breathtaking views from São Jorge Castle, you are treated to a tapestry of experiences that highlight Lisbon's architectural marvels, gastronomic delights, and warm-hearted locals.

Downtown Lisbon

On the first day, in the morning we had a workshop about "the light of Lisbon", at the IADE university. It was an interesting lecture about the particular lights that you can find in Lisbon, photographically speaking, and also about framing and perspective. After lunch, we visited, with a guide, downtown Lisbon, Baixa, which is a bustling and elegant district that embodies the city's vibrant spirit and historical significance. With its grand boulevards, neoclassical architecture, and lively atmosphere, Baixa is a hub of commerce, culture, and exploration. The iconic Praça do Comércio, a spacious square facing the Tagus River, serves as the district's centrepiece, offering stunning views and a sense of openness. Baixa is also home to the historic Elevador de Santa Justa, an ornate iron elevator that connects the lower streets to the elevated Carmo Square.

Strolling along the mosaic-patterned sidewalks of Rua Augusta, the main shopping street, we saw a mix of traditional stores, charming cafes, and boutiques. Baixa's architecture, characterized by organized grid patterns and symmetrical buildings, reflects the city's recovery from the devastating 18th-century earthquake. The district effortlessly blends historical charm with contemporary flair, making it a captivating place to explore Lisbon's heritage and modern urban life.

The weather was amazing, September is a good period to visit Portugal. The city tour was a nice opportunity to know the other photographers of the group and build up the group dynamic, as well as discover the different background stories of each one. This part of Lisbon is nice for street photography, and the riverside is really beautiful. 

Alfama

The morning after we had another guided tour to Alfama, the oldest neighbourhood of Lisbon. With its narrow labyrinthine streets, and centuries-old buildings adorned with colourful tiles, Alfama offers a captivating journey through time. Perched on a hill overlooking the Tagus River, this enchanting neighbourhood is a living testament to Lisbon's rich past, having survived earthquakes, fires, and the passage of centuries. Wandering through its cobblestone alleys, it is possible to encounter hidden courtyards, traditional Fado music echoing from intimate taverns, and breathtaking vistas from viewpoints like the Miradouro das Portas do Sol.

I loved this part of the city, the small streets, a lot of life and colours that gave me tons of ideas for pictures. The place and the group inspired me that morning, and that gave me a nice feeling that made me happy.

In the afternoon we had a landscape photography workshop, and after it, we went to the Belvedere of Our Lady of the Hills to practice what just learn. I have to confess that I don't like landscape photography and I was more focused on taking photos of the band that was playing there. 

The Belvedere of Our Lady of the Hill, known as "Miradouro da Senhora do Monte" in Portuguese, is a captivating viewpoint that offers one of the most panoramic and breathtaking vistas of Lisbon. Perched atop one of the city's highest hills, this tranquil spot provides an unparalleled view of the historic centre, the Tagus River, and the sprawling cityscape beyond.

Lisbon by night

After the landscape photography session, with a small group, we went by boat to the other side of the river to be close to the Lisbon Bridge and see the sunset from there. We were a bit late, so we missed the golden hour, and it was cloudy, but it was nice anyway. We didn't spend much time there because it got dark soon and we had to meet with the rest of the group for dinner, but it was worth it since the colours and the atmosphere were good.

The sunset with these black clouds make an interesting atmosphere with very cool colours, plus there was a group of drummers that were playing on the riverside. It was a nice opportunity for taking pictures and sharing good hints with the others.

Lx Factory

On the third day, we had a portrait workshop and a portrait session with models. Recently I discovered that I like portrait photography, and these opportunities are amazing to develop this technique, plus I loved the location, Lx Factory. It is a creative and cultural hub situated in the Alcantara district. This dynamic urban space has transformed a former industrial complex into a vibrant and eclectic destination that celebrates art, design, food, and innovation.

LX Factory is a melting pot of creativity, hosting a diverse range of businesses, from art studios and galleries to trendy boutiques, co-working spaces, and unique eateries. The industrial-chic atmosphere of the repurposed warehouses and factories adds to the area's distinctive charm, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

For me, it was a great opportunity to shoot with models, and I am really happy with the picture I got. It's nice also to shoot with other photographers and share ideas and knowledge, and even steal also some of them. I remember that after that day I was really happy and full of good vibes, like having the time of my life.

Belem

On the last day, we had a guided tour of Belem, a historic district of Lisbon, situated along the banks of the Tagus River. It is renowned for its grandeur and historical significance, offering a glimpse into Portugal's Age of Discovery. The district is home to the impressive Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which once served as a fortress guarding the city's entrance. Nearby stands the Jerónimos Monastery.

Belem is also famous for its link to the Age of Exploration, with the Monument to the Discoveries paying tribute to legendary explorers. Additionally, no visit to Belem is complete without indulging in pastéis de nata at the renowned Pastéis de Belem bakery, a treat that encapsulates the flavours of this historic district.

It was the perfect day for a walk on the riverside, and also for relaxing while putting your feet in the water. The atmosphere here was really beautiful, nice weather, a lot of people and street artists playing excellent music, I was enjoying the situation and I took just the essential pictures.

Sintra, Pena Palace

In the afternoon, with a small group, we took a taxi to Sintra, which is a nice escape that seems to have sprung from the pages of a fairy tale. Sintra is renowned for its lush landscapes, historic architecture, and enchanting atmosphere. In particular, we went there to see Pena Palace. The town is crowned by the iconic Pena Palace, a colourful and whimsical palace that overlooks rolling hills and dense forests. The Palace is on the Sintra hills, it is a national monument, a UNESCO world heritage and one of the seven wonders of Portugal. The colours of the Palace are characteristic, and it is part of the things that makes Pena Palace one of the major expression of 19th-century Romanticism in the world.

The Pena Palace is divided into the Palace itself, the park and the castle. It is possible to visit all of them with one ticket, but we saw only the park and the palace from outside, we didn't have enough time and it was expensive.

Cabo da Roca

Our main target that day was the sunset at Cabo da Roca, a rugged and breathtaking headland located on the westernmost tip of continental Europe. This dramatic coastal landscape offers an awe-inspiring view of the Atlantic Ocean meeting the sheer cliffs, creating a sense of vastness and natural wonder. The iconic Cabo da Roca lighthouse stands as a sentinel, overlooking the immense expanse of water and rugged coastline below.

The sunset there was magical, it was super windy, very cold and difficult even to stand, but we enjoyed the amazing atmosphere.

It was an inspiring situation photographically speaking, with fantastic light and colours, and at the end also a full moon rising. I have to say that a nice part was also sharing immediately with the others the magic of the situation we were living in, when I'm travelling alone I can't do this. 

I was surprised positively by Lisbon, a dynamic city, with a good vibe, I would like to live there. The trip, in general, was really good, Gabriele and Massimiliano organised it perfectly and the participants were cool people, I bonded with some of them and I think I will see someone soon. It wasn’t my first experience with this project, I went with them also to Krakow, Copenaghen and Santorini.