Take a trip to the Portuguese capital.

Lisbon is a city where history and modernity collide in the most unexpected ways. Lisbon is both timeless and futuristic in its entirety, with the old trams of the city coexisting with the modern architecture it is famous for.

This week, KHAMSA takes a look at the wonders of Lisbon through a detailed travel guide by our very own Creative Producer, Drishti Jindal (@drishj_ on Instagram).

This week, KHAMSA takes a look at the wonders of Lisbon through a travel guide by our very own Creative Producer, Drishti Jindal. Drishti is an avid traveller and lover of all things fascinating around the globe – having just spent a summer getaway in Lisbon, she returned with nothing but love & glowing praise for the Portuguese wonderland.

Lisbon is a place where you can lose yourself in its narrow alleyways and find yourself in its sweeping vistas. It’s a city that invites exploration, seduces with its charm, and leaves an indelible mark on all who wander through its streets, as we are seeing on Drishti.

Top must-visit food spots?

Breakfast/Coffee

Dear Breakfast

A MUST-go!

COMOBA

Insane Chai pancakes.

Heim

Great lively area, small but adorable space, great brunch deal.

Dinner

Black Trumpet

Beautiful for a cosy, classy dinner.

Pomme Eatery

Soooo underrated, highly recommend!!!

Pastel de Nata (the traditional Portuguese tartes)

Castro Atelier

Beautiful little boutique pastry shop for Pastel de Nata.

Mantegeria

At the heart of the city, good to stop by for a snack.

Pasteis de Belem

The best ones!!!

Classic Portuguese experience: A Fado Show & Wine + Charcuterie

Tasca do Chico

A must-do experience.

Best bar recommendations?

Pensão Amor

Casa Reia

In Costa da Caparica.

Best places for shopping?

Flea Markets. Great for thrifting and jewellery, but just be sure to check which days they’re open! Visit Mercado de Santa Clara and Feira da Ladra.

– Drishti Jindal

Must-visit cultural spots?

Image courtesy Drishti Jindal

Palace of Pena in Sintra.

Best boutique hotels to stay in?

1908 Lisboa Hotel

https://www.instagram.com/p/C8eS-hDI8-U/

Memmo Principe Real

https://www.instagram.com/p/C8ugu_VJZBp/?hl=en

What’s underrated?

https://www.instagram.com/p/C7rYKPAJxjZ/?img_index=1

“The overall dining scene! So, so much good food & even better vibes.”

What should you avoid?

https://www.instagram.com/p/C2fLvJdqnQU/?img_index=1

Tuk-tuk rides, they rip tourists off!

Going up the Santa Justa Lift – just walk up (it’s quicker & free)

Hopping on Tram 28!! It’s super crowded and stops the locals from actually using their transport system – It’s honestly just nicer to see it pass by you from the outside with the backdrop of the city rather than being INSIDE of it.

Standing in line for dinner at Ponto Final….the views are gorgeous, so just walk around the area and grab a glass of wine instead of waiting for over 2 hours!!

– Drishti Jindal

Must-pack items?

Image courtesy Drishti Jindal

“COMFY SHOES 100% – the cobblestone streets of the city are sooo slippery, not to mention uphill/downhill. A light jacket or hoodie – the nights are chillier than you’d expect.

Any tips and tricks to tackle the city?

“Alfama is the part of Lisbon that’s super uphill and winding, so be prepared for that before hitting that area. Don’t stay downtown, prices are higher plus tourists are everywhere, especially during peak season. Highly recommend staying around the Principe Real area.

“Don’t be shy to Uber/Bolt. It’s actually super reasonably priced in comparison to other cities & quick/efficient when getting from place to place on a tight timeline. Definitely try their “orange wine” LOL.”

I'm Leila Al Fayyez, a 28-year-old Iraqi writer with a deep love for storytelling, fashion, and the energy of youth culture. I write to explore identity, freedom, and everything that moves and challenges my generation—from digital life to self-expression, especially at KHAMSA. I aim to connect, question, and inspire through words that reflect who we are and where we're headed. You can contact me on editors@khamsa5.com
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