Shani Laplume

Lisbon—I still remember my first time in this vibrant capital. The sounds of the city, the scent of fresh pasteis de nata and espresso, the beautiful and mesmerizing tiles on the buildings and the sidewalk, and the warmth of the people made me feel instantly connected to this capital city. I took a walking tour that guided me through some of Lisbon’s most iconic neighborhoods—Alfama, Bairro Alto, Baixa and Chiado.

The tour was amazing, but here’s the thing—Lisbon is called the City of Seven Hills for a reason. The views were incredible, but those steep climbs were no joke—especially after a long international flight! Another fun experience I had in Lisbon was riding a tuk-tuk around the city. It was fast, a little bumpy, and honestly one of the best ways to tackle Lisbon’s steep hills and take in the breathtaking views from the top. Tuk-tuks have become a popular way to explore the city, offering different routes that wind through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods. What I loved most was how each tuk-tuk had its own personality—decorated with bright colors and quirky details that reflected the city’s creative spirit. Tuk-tuks are actually inspired by the auto rickshaws used in Asia, but they’ve taken on a life of their own in Lisbon, blending perfectly with the city’s mix of old-world charm and modern energy.

While in Lisbon, I explored museums, wandered along the riverside Belem, and, of course, sampled the famous pastéis de nata from different bakeries. I seriously couldn’t get enough of those creamy, flaky pastries—they were addictive!

Another great way to get around Lisbon is by hopping on one of the city’s iconic trams. The bright yellow trams are not just a convenient way to navigate the steep hills—they’re a part of Lisbon’s history and charm.