A Few Days in Lisbon: Slower Streets, Better Coffee, and Warm Light
Lisbon surprised me. I didn’t go with a big agenda, just for a break from London’s grey skies. But I left with a quiet appreciation for a city that doesn’t go out of its way to impress, yet still manages to.
From the first walk through its cobbled streets, Lisbon felt different. The hills, the soft golden light, the tiled facades - it all gave the city a pace that made you slow down (the steep climbs certainly played a part).
Walking Through the City
One of the best ways to experience Lisbon is on foot. I stayed in a small, minimal hotel - peaceful but close enough to walk almost anywhere. Public transport was easy to navigate, but most days I just followed the streets.
Every corner seemed to open into something new: a view over the city, a quiet courtyard, a street lit by late afternoon sun. The layout feels spontaneous, layered, almost improvised, all feeding a curious mind.
Where to Find Good Coffee in Lisbon
I spent plenty of time in cafés, and Lisbon’s coffee scene is better than I expected. Numa Café was an early favourite - great coffee, calm setting, and no rush to leave. I also found The Folks Chiado and Seagull Method Café, both solid spots with good coffee and a relaxed atmosphere. These places didn’t feel overly styled or pretentious - just well done and easy to enjoy.
Eating at TimeOut Market
TimeOut Market is busy, loud, and certainly worth it. It’s one of those places where you can try a variety of food and drink without needing to commit to a formal meal. Even surrounded by crowds, it’s possible to find a little pocket of your own - wine in one hand, fork in the other. I went back twice.
Lisbon Rooftops and Unexpected Evenings
One of the evenings, after searching for the ultimate spot to enjoy the sunset, I ended up at V Rooftop Bar. The view was one of those quiet highlights - a moment where the city feels both unfamiliar and comfortable at the same time.
I got chatting to some fellow solo travellers on the terrace and later that night we came across a small night market with live music and lights strung between trees. Locals were out, chatting, dancing, just going about their night. It was a truly enjoyable evening that fit the scene of the warm sea breeze, friendly people and hand made offerings.
Best View in Lisbon: Miradouro de Alcântara
There are plenty of viewpoints in Lisbon, but Miradouro de Alcântara stood out during my trip. It wasn’t too crowded, and the view was wide and open. Around dusk, everything turned a soft pink that made the whole city feel like it was winding down.
Would I Go Back?
Definitely. There’s still more to see, but more than that, I want to feel the pace of Lisbon again. No rush, no pressure - just time to wander, enjoy good coffee, and a city that quietly warms you from within.