Lisbon, a city that evokes Havana with its nightlife, San Francisco with its trams and bridges, London with its rehabilitated docks, and Alfama with its medina-like neighborhood, is a destination unto itself. Just a two-hour flight from Paris, it’s the perfect place to soak up the last rays of summer for a weekend getaway.
Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon
As soon as you step into the lobby with its grand volumes, you’ll discover elegant lounges adorned with tapestries, artist frescoes, and classified bronze artworks. Upstairs, the light-filled rooms offer stunning city views and come with access to a panoramic fitness center. In the garden, you’ll find a lagoon-colored pool, just steps away from the spa. The gastronomic restaurant Cura, led by Chef Pedro Pena Bastos, reinvents local cuisine with finesse.
An architectural gem from the 1960s, the Lisbon Ritz has recently undergone a complete renovation by the Oitoemponto architecture studio. This dreamy hotel, managed by the Four Seasons group, has it all.. Their signature treatment, called “digital detox,” helps release muscle tension while addressing the harmful effects of blue light from screens. And the icing on the cake?
Pastelaria Benard Ideal
For breakfast, Pastelaria Benard offers enticing options: freshly squeezed orange juice, strong black coffee, and, most importantly, famous Portuguese pastries like pasteis de nata (small flan-like tarts) and bolo de arroz (rice muffins). Find them at R. Garrett 104, 1200-205 Lisbon, Tel. +351 21 347 3133.
NIHNO
Lisbon’s first private club, NINHO, has recently opened its doors just a stone’s throw from Jardim do Torel.
This oasis surrounded by greenery features a beautiful terracotta-tiled pool and, most notably, the restaurant of Chef Hugo Dias de Castro. On the menu, you’ll find watermelon and cherry tomato gazpacho, tuna tartare, local oysters, and grilled fish.
La Taberna da Rua das Flores
A favorite address of Sam Baron, La Taberna da Rua das Flores is considered one of the finest dining spots in Lisbon. Specializing in tapas, this small restaurant in the Chiado district crafts its daily menu based on market finds and boasts an excellent selection of wines from the region.
Please note: reservations are recommended.
Rua das Flores 103, 1200-194 Lisbon, Tel. +351 21 347 9418
Bairro Alto Neighborhood
Perched atop Lisbon, Bairro Alto has transitioned from a working-class neighborhood to a thriving artsy spot in recent years. Today, it’s the city’s cool hub, calm during the day and ultra-vibrant at night, offering trendy hair salons, young designer boutiques, and artist workshops in its cobblestone streets.
Vera Cortes Contemporary Art Gallery
Located in the Santos district, Vera Cortes contemporary art gallery is renowned for its cutting-edge exhibitions, featuring both foreign and Portuguese artists from the new generation. Av. 24 de Julho 54, 1200 Lisbonne, Tel.+351 21 395 0177
Palacio do Grilo
Within the walls of an 18th-century palace, Palacio do Grilo is a unique establishment. With its candlelit, theatrically furnished setting, visitors dine in a series of interconnected rooms. The twist? Every evening, a troupe of actors delivers unexpected performances.
Praia Da Riviera
Just a drive over the 25th of April Bridge, along the Costa da Caparica, you’ll find Praia Da Riviera, a vast beach kissed by the Atlantic waves, only 30 minutes from Lisbon. Don’t miss the seafood restaurant of the same name, perched above the bay, for a delightful dinner by the sea.
Javá Rooftop
Designed by Studio Pim, Javá boasts one of Lisbon’s most beautiful views. Whether on the terrace or behind large windows overlooking the city, visitors can enjoy cocktails and share small plates with a Mediterranean twist.
Mini Bar
Headed by Chef José Avillez, the mastermind behind Belcanto and Cantinho, two Lisbon favorites, Mini Bar is a gastronomic bar located in a former theater in the Chiado district. It’s a bustling spot for dinner. R. António Maria Cardoso 58, Lisbonne, Tel.+351 21 130 5393
Lux
Owned by John Malkovich, Lux is one of Lisbon’s coolest nightspots. Located above the docks, this club has become the headquarters for the best Portuguese DJs and international talents, attracting techno and electro enthusiasts to dance the night away. Av. Infante Dom Henrique, 1950-376 Lisbonne, Tel.+351 21 882 0890
Palacio do Visconde
For brunch, head to Palacio do Visconde. In a tranquil townhouse, this place has its own coffee roastery and serves up classic brunch favorites.
Go A Lisboa
Another rooftop not to be missed in the Portuguese capital, Go A Lisboa offers a soaring view of the 25th of April Bridge.
With a bohemian atmosphere, from the cocktail bar to Chef Inga Martin’s restaurant, it’s a place to savor the experience.
Pôsto da Onda
Just a short distance from the city, Pôsto da Onda is a boho beach led by the same team behind the Nômade hotel in Tulum. Facing the Atlantic waves, your day can be as you wish—whether it’s surfing, sunbathing, or indulging in ceviches with your toes in the sand.