*Belem Tower is a stunning fortress built in the 16th century that stands proudly on the banks of the Tagus River*

Oh, Lisbon. You were a pleasant surprise! I had no idea we would discover so many gems in such a short amount of time while wandering around Portugal's capital city for the day. Usually our list of must-see things is long and our planning, extensive. However, this time, we just picked our drop off point on the map and explored from there, letting our feet and stomachs do the talking as we made our way through the city. Our starting point: Belém Tower!

Belém Tower With a View, With Wine?! Ok!

After a scenic fifty minute Bolt ride from Ericeira to Lisbon, we arrived at the Belém Tower which was situated right on the banks of the Tagus River. Belém is an iconic monument, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that showcases stunning Manueline architecture. Originally constructed in the early 16th century as a defensive fortress, the tower now serves as a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discoveries. After admiring the monument, which is in an absolutely beautiful setting, we began to stroll leisurely along the riverside promenade.

While Chip, his dad, and the boys paraded off towards the Monument to the Discoveries (another incredible masterpiece along the riverfront), Michaele and I got distracted by the most adorable 1960’s motor tri-cycle donning the sign ‘Wine with a View.’ Though the clocks had just ticked past 11 that morning, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to first, figure out what this cute motorcycle was all about, and two, to taste Portuguese wine, of course. The woman who was working was such a joy to talk to that we ended up having two glasses - one with her and one to go. We loved her concept of tasting wine but in a to-go (souvenir) cup while strolling the boardwalk.

Monument Of the discoveries

We eventually caught up to the boys, or more like they caught up to us, as they came screaming towards us on electric scooters near the monument. Whenever we find a (safe) way to ride a scooter in the city, we go for it, and this was a great spot for the boys to cruise. As the rest of us inched closer to the monument on foot, the more impressive it began to look. The Monument of the Discoveries is a striking tribute to the Age of Exploration. The structure, which was inaugurated in 1960, features the figures of prominent explorers, including Vasco da Gama and Infante Henry the Navigator, paying homage to the brave men and women who ventured into the unknown. Its unique design, resembling a ship's prow, evokes the spirit of discovery that characterized the period.

I think we could have spent the whole day strolling the waterfront area. It was reminiscent of San Francisco, in part due to the 25 de Abril Bridge spanning the waterway in the distance, which was constructed by and looks exactly like the Golden Gate Bridge. I had no idea the rest of Lisbon would resemble San Fran as well!

Baixa de Lisboa

Next, we hopped in another Bolt car and sped over to Lisbon’s historic heart of the city called Baixa. Here, Neoclassical architecture, built after the 1755 earthquake, surrounds the Commerce and Rossio squares, which we walked through. Bustling pedestrianized streets are lined with traditional seafood restaurants (which we found for lunch) and lots of souvenir shops, where the boys picked up a Messi soccer jersey and a cork watch. Classic yellow trams rode past us up steep streets. Watching the world move along in this area is mesmerizing. There is so much to look at in such a classical setting, you almost have to stop every few minutes to take in the surroundings.

Now what should we do?

We had one of those ‘wow this place is amazing, but now what should we do since we only have time for one more thing’ moment. I usually hate that feeling. Wondering if the thing we choose to do will be incredible…or will it flop?

We randomly stumbled upon the Torre da Igreja, an unassuming church, that seemed to have no tourist lines. We were a little skeptical. For five Euros per person, we decided to just send in the two of us that were interested most (me and Michaele). After paying, and learning that we get one free complimentary drink that is unique to Portugal, we persuaded the others to join us. What a surprise! We were taken to a tiny area that was part of the old walled castle for our welcome drink. Then afterwards, we walked fifty narrow and winding steps up to a beautiful bell tower with insane panoramic city views. We had the whole place to ourselves, and it was such a a treat to spend our final hour in Lisbon here.

Sore feet, New memories

Lisbon ended up being a bonus trip that we weren’t sure we would be able to squeeze in. Having already visiting the area of Sintra, spending two weeks in Ericeira, plus a week in Porto at the end of our trip, we didn’t think we would have the energy to visit another location. But I’m so glad we decided to spend the day seeing plenty of beautiful Lisbon highlights. It was just enough to wet my appetite for another visit in the future!