Experience Lisbon like a Local as a Solo Traveler

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A Kevin Warren Chronicle

It had been years since I last embarked on a solo trip—the last one being a business excursion to the Philippines 16 years ago. When a good friend from trivia announced his move to Lisbon, I knew it was time to shake the dust off my passport and dive back into solo travel. Lisbon wasn’t just a random pick; it’s a blend of rich history, delectable food, and affordable prices—perfect for a week-long adventure.

I planned to spend a week in Lisbon, including a side trip to Porto, while staying in a hotel rather than bunking with friends or opting for an Airbnb. Here’s how it all went down, plus tips and insights for anyone itching to explore Portugal like a local.

Getting to Lisbon: A Smooth Journey

Flying to Lisbon was straightforward despite the lack of direct flights. My American Airlines trip involved a short layover, and the 10-hour journey felt like a breeze compared to the marathon flights to Asia. Upon arrival, Lisbon’s airport showed its age with bus transfers from the tarmac to the terminal—not ideal, but nothing a little travel patience couldn’t handle.

Pro Tip: When booking flights, I recommend using a site like Expedia. Not only can you score the best deals, but using affiliate links (like the ones here!) helps keep blogs like this alive—at no extra cost to you!

Lisbon: A City Rich in History and Relaxation

Lisbon is one of Europe’s most historic capitals, with roots tracing back to Phoenician traders. While much of the city was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, it still oozes old-world charm. The relaxed vibe is palpable, with locals chatting in parks, sipping coffee, and living life at an enviable pace.

SOLO TRIP TIP 1#: Use Apple Maps or Google Maps to Stay Organized

Creating an itinerary in your map app makes navigating Lisbon’s winding streets a breeze. Pin landmarks, restaurants, and your hotel to save time!

J and his wife Sherry gave me an introduction to life in Lisbon. Life is seemingly laid back. Parks are abundant. Each has a coffee stand/bar. People hang out in the parks to talk with friends and neighbors at all hours. Most people speak enough English that you can converse, order food/drink, or ask for directions with ease.

Getting Around Lisbon: Options Galore

Whether you prefer Uber, public transit, or walking, Lisbon has you covered. Uber rides are a steal, typically costing $5–$10. The Metro system is easy to navigate, with four color-coded lines and affordable fares. As Charmaine noted here (One Day Travel Guide to Paris), I get a kick out of navigating by train. It is not something I really grew up with, so it is interesting to learn how to get from place to place. Lisbon’s metro system is not as extensive as Paris, but will mostly get you where you need to go.

Solo Travel Tip #2: Opt for a 24-Hour Metro Pass

For just $5, the 24-hour pass covers unlimited rides on buses, trams, and the metro. Trust me, after a few of Lisbon’s legendary hills, you’ll be glad to hitch a ride.

Solo Travel Tip #3: Stay Central

Lisbon is a walkable city, but being centrally located saves time and energy, especially if you’re tackling multiple attractions in a day.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

I chose the Sao Bento Hotel, a modernized gem near the central business district. Its quiet location, free breakfast buffet, and proximity to the yellow metro line made it ideal for a solo traveler like me. If you’re booking accommodations, I recommend checking out Booking.com or if you prefer a home you can check out VRBO—and yes, you can support this blog by using my affiliate links! It’s a win-win situation: you get a great deal, and I get to keep writing about awesome destinations. 😊

SOLO TRIP TIP 4#: Be aware of what of festivals that might be going on

Mike and Suzanne opted for an AirBNB in the aforementioned Aflama neighborhood. They had a bit of a rough experience as their Uber driver could not drop them at their door due to the narrow streets. Also we were there during the Feast of St. Anthony which meant the streets were packed with festivals, drinking, music and dancing all hours of the night.

What to Eat and Drink in Lisbon: A Foodie Paradise

Lisbon’s food scene is as vibrant as its tiled facades. You can indulge in a full meal for around $10, and the variety is endless—from tapas at Sim Chef to life-changing sushi at Kanazawa, where Chef Paulo turns every dish into a masterpiece. Don’t skip local staples like pastéis de nata, bacalhau (codfish), and local wines.

The meal that completely blew my mind though was a sushi place called Kanazawa. J had been talking it up since he first knew we were coming. Usually reality does not meet expectation, but this time reality exceeded expectation. The chef is a Portuguese gentleman named Paulo. Paulo studied the art of sushi under a Japanese chef. We did a seven course meal. To say it was almost spiritual does not do it justice. By the end of the meal, Paulo was essentially showing off what he could do. The last piece of nigiri was every flavor you can imagine in a single bite, one playing off the other.

Things to Do in Lisbon

Whether you’re into history, architecture, or stunning viewpoints, Lisbon has something for everyone. Highlights include:

• Avenida de Liberdade: Stroll this tree-lined avenue packed with high-end stores and monuments.

• Sao Jorge Castle: A historical gem with breathtaking city views.

• Belem Tower: A UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in maritime history.

• Jerónimos Monastery: Famous as the site of the Treaty of Lisbon.

• The Aqueduct: Another pre-earthquake marvel where you can walk along and soak in panoramic views.

• Carmo Convent Ruins: A hauntingly beautiful reminder of Lisbon’s history. This Gothic convent, left roofless by the 1755 earthquake, is now an open-air site with a museum that houses ancient artifacts, including royal tombs. The contrast of the blue sky against the stone arches is mesmerizing. Tickets are around $5 and well worth it for history buffs and Instagram fans alike.

Side Trip to Porto: A Slice of Medieval Charm

Porto, just a three-hour train ride from Lisbon, offers a more medieval vibe. While labor strikes disrupted our schedule slightly, the journey was worth it. Highlights include the Ribeira district, the famous Dom Luís I Bridge, and exploring Porto’s cobblestone streets.

Solo Travel Tip #4: Upgrade to First Class Sparingly

First-class train tickets in Portugal don’t offer much beyond a slightly cushier seat. Stick to standard class and save those euros for Porto’s legendary port wine.

J. K. Rowling lived in Porto while writing the first of the Harry Potter books. I cannot confirm, but J told me the college students wore robes similar to the wizards and witches in the movies. Although the series takes place in England, I could not help but think this street reminded me of Diagon Alley

Porto is definitely worth a side trip, but I would recommend spending more than an afternoon.

Lisbon surprised me in all the best ways. It’s an affordable, vibrant, and walkable city with endless culture, delicious food, and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a getaway with friends, Portugal should be at the top of your list. Got questions or travel tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below—I’d love to hear about your adventures!

What’s your dream European destination? Let’s chat in the comments!

Kevin out!