When we visit a city or a country, there are always some things that surprise us. Things that we had heard about, but that somehow ended up winning us over, surprising us and making us want more. These are things that we end up loving, after all, who doesn't like a good surprise?
And Lisbon, the beautiful and cool The Portuguese capital has many things to consider, whether they are very positive or not so good, which is normal after all. Below I list five things that surprised me in Lisbon and that I ended up loving. See if you agree.
01- The sweets
Portugal is known for its wide variety of sweets and in its capital it is no different. Sweets are almost unanimous, most people enjoy them. Sweets are a memory that you will carry with you for a long time and put in the little box “Best Of Portugal”. The good thing is that Lisbon has many sweets and cakes that you will only find here. Your diet will go out the window, but who cares with so many delicious treats and memories ahead?
02 – The Viewpoints
It is impossible to talk about Lisbon without mentioning its viewpoints. After all, everyone knows that the Portuguese capital is the city of the Seven Hills, built on and between them. Therefore, it is only natural that there are viewpoints. And look, there are quite a few: Lisbon has 19 viewpoints, some well-known and popular, others not so much. But what do they have in common? They all offer a wide and beautiful view of the city, from various angles (depending on where they are located). Isn't that just lovely?
03 – The Tiles
One of the country's most iconic symbols, tiles, are also widely used in Lisbon's architecture. Thousands of houses and buildings are covered in a wide variety of colors, shapes, patterns and designs. It is impossible to remain indifferent to Lisbon's tiles, which lend elegance and art to facades. That's why you can't be too careful with a heritage that could disappear if not properly cared for. You can buy Lisbon tiles and take them home to make this piece of art stand out in your home.
04 – Fado
Fado is another Portuguese trademark. But if you want to hear real fado, Lisbon is the place to go! And the right place in Lisbon is the neighborhoods of Alfama, Bairro Alto, Baixa and the area around Castelo de São Jorge. There are hundreds of fado houses. The most original ones you can find. If you look hard enough, you might find a famous fado singer in a house in Alfama, why not? All of this is fado.
05 – Hospitality
This is not just a characteristic of Lisbon, but of the Portuguese people, who are known for their friendliness and hospitality towards those who come from abroad. And since the Portuguese capital is made up of people from all over the world, it ends up forming a rich culture, full of diversity and different customs. The cool thing is that the city has a lot of diversity, with different customs, but with one thing in common: hospitality. It is really to love what Lisbon does best: welcoming visitors.