If there’s one thing Lisbon’s polished cobblestone hills offer (besides buns of steel)—it’s views. If you’re willing to hoof it, you will most definitely be rewarded with gorgeous vistas of the Tagus River and the old village streets and apartments below. In this case, Lisbon’s oldest district, Alfama, is definitely a neighborhood that’s worth the climb. Here’s why…
Naturally, if any moderate exercise is involved on any adventure of mine, I’m always keen to reward myself in the end. A girl needs goals, people! In this particular instance, I had read about a delicious cocktail bar called Portas do Sol that had my name written all over it: water views, modern, alfresco seating, gauzy, white shades, and crispy cocktails. Saddle up, kittens!
Perhaps worth noting, there is a tram stop located right near the entrance of this place if you’re feeling lazy, but trams don’t give you burning thighs and justification for ordering pork for the 9,000th time—so you make the call. But if you’re looking for a nice spot to rest your legs and to soak in the sun, look no further than this spot. It’s just down the street from the Instagram-worthy Praça Júlio de Castilho park with equally jaw dropping views and not too far up the hill from the Sé (Lisbon’s famed Cathedral).
When my friend and I arrived, a lovely, shaded two-top was waiting for us. We opted for some mojitos and a fresh snack of local olives—a perfect little aperitivo on a perfect afternoon. Saúde!