1. Spend a day at the beach (be it summer or winter)

With the stunning Atlantic at your feet, there is no reason for you not to spend a day enjoying a refreshing scenario by the Lisbon coast. Take a train to the suburban area of Cascais and experience the crisp Portuguese seaside. Despite being a perfect summertime day plan to enjoy a swim and an opportunity to tan, or for the more adventurous to have a try at surfing, it is nonetheless fully accessible and enjoyable throughout the rest of the year. During the cooler seasons, you will be met with stunning views and a calm and relaxing atmosphere to take your mind off the city’s busy lifestyle.

2. Spend a night out on the town (at the risk of carrying onto the early morning)

Lisbon nightlife is known to be one of the best in Europe – and it is no surprise why. Although it is suited with a number of trendy ‘megaclubs’, we suggest you experience the true Lisboan night out on the town in the streets of Bairro Alto. A vaguely quiet, somewhat nostalgic location during the day, the Lisboan downtown comes to life after 11pm, where a number of bars and small discos open onto the streets, joining locals and tourists alike in a partying parade that can (and most likely will) last until the very early hours of the morning. Experience locations such as the Rua Rosa, where in a massive pink pavement, you will find one of the trendiest, most sociable locations in Lisbon. Make new friends, enjoy a drink and live your Lisboan experience to the fullest – as a night out in the downtown is not to be missed.

3. Take a photograph with Fernando Pessoa (or his statue)

While meandering the streets of Chiado, make sure to stop at the Brasileira. One of the most iconic cafés in Lisbon, it is known to have been one of Fernando Pessoa’s election spots. In its outside sitting area, you will find the statue of one of Portugal’s most famous poets, marking the spot at his usual table. Put your selfie skills to test and snap a photo with one of Lisbon’s trademark spots – while enjoying a classic ‘bica’ (our very own expression for an espresso coffee).

4. Enjoy Lisbon’s sunset in a rooftop bar (inside a parking lot)

Do not leave the Portuguese capital without experiencing the views from the rooftop bar, Park. Situated in the top of a parking lot in the Lisbon downtown, the place’s peculiar location and trendy charm invite you to enjoy the city’s gorgeous sunset from one of the best places to see it from. Experience a different sight of Lisbon, accompanied with wonderfully prepared drinks or bites to eat and finish your day amidst the animated buzz of people, contrasting with a serene scenery.

5. Eat a ‘bitoque’ (like a true local)

Visit a typical ‘tasca’ (tavern) and order a ‘bitoque’ – a simple, yet full of personality dish that every Portuguese person has eaten at least once in their life. Composed of a ‘prego’ (steak roll) steak on a plate, it is accompanied by chips, rice and salad and characterised by a sunny-side up egg that garnishes the steak and completes the dish. Savour the epitome of homely culinary and pair it with a hearty glass of Portuguese wine for the perfect finish to your local gastronomic experience.