James's Solo Exploration of Lisbon

Lisbon's Embrace: Art, Nature, and Culinary Wonders

Today was a beautiful exploration of Lisbon's diverse offerings, a blend of artistic immersion, natural serenity, and culinary indulgence. It was a day that reminded me why I love solo travel – the freedom to explore at my own pace and discover hidden gems along the way. From the inspiring halls of the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum to the tranquil expanse of Parque Eduardo VII, and the delightful tastes encountered throughout the day, Lisbon truly captivated my senses.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Augusto Lisboa. The cafe was incredibly charming, decorated with vibrant pink and green island-themed decor. I decided to go for their famous homemade banana bread. It was served with homemade peanut butter and slices of fresh banana sprinkled with black sesame. I even got a cute card with the recipe to try at home. Accompanied by an iced matcha drink, it was the perfect start to a day of exploration. After breakfast, I made my way to the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. It was a relatively short walk, allowing me to soak in more of Lisbon's atmosphere.

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum was my first stop. Nestled amidst a vibrant atmosphere, it was easy to reach by metro and offered a calm respite from the city's hustle. The museum itself is an architectural marvel. The surrounding gardens, with their winding trails, served as a physical initiation into the contemplative quiet of the museum space. It felt like a world away from the busy streets of Lisbon. I was immediately struck by the serene atmosphere of the place. The museum's design, with its smooth concrete walls and luxurious wooden paneling, created a soothing environment that encouraged me to slow down and truly appreciate the art. It was easy to lose myself in the museum's collection, wandering from ancient Egyptian artifacts to the works of European masters.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

The Gulbenkian houses an extraordinary collection. The museum's founder, Calouste Gulbenkian, clearly had impeccable taste, and his passion and knowledge are evident in every piece. I was particularly drawn to the Islamic art section, with its intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Wandering through the museum, I found myself captivated by the sheer diversity of the exhibits. The collection spans from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, showcasing art from the Islamic world, Mesopotamia, and the Far East. The Western section featured sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts, including a remarkable collection of jewelry by René Lalique. The building was designed in 1969 to showcase the roughly six thousand pieces collected by Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian. While the main collection is closed until July 2026, the gardens and other exhibitions are still open to visitors. I spent hours wandering through the museum, losing myself in the beauty and history of the art. It was an enriching experience that broadened my understanding of different cultures and artistic traditions.


Explore the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon, where art, history, and nature come together in a harmonious cultural experience.

Leaving the museum, I decided to embrace the outdoors with a visit to Parque Eduardo VII. It was a pleasant walk from the Gulbenkian, allowing me to stretch my legs and enjoy the fresh air. The park is massive, offering panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. Even in February, the park was lovely, with well-maintained gardens, sculptures, and colorful flower beds. I strolled through the geometrically cut hedges, reminiscent of royal gardens, and admired the monument to Marquis de Pombal. I found myself at the top of the park, taking in the breathtaking views of Lisbon. From there, I could see the Tagus River and even catch a glimpse of São Jorge Castle. It was the perfect spot to pause, reflect, and capture a few photos.


Explore the vibrant greenery and breathtaking views of Parque Eduardo VII, Lisbon's largest city park, perfect for relaxation and recreation.

For lunch, I ventured to The Decadente, a restaurant known for its modern twist on Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant had a vibrant atmosphere, filled with both locals and travelers. I opted for one of their traditional Portuguese dishes with a modern twist, and it was absolutely delicious. The service was excellent, and the overall experience was delightful. The food was incredibly delicious and unlike anything I've tasted before. The chef expertly blended different culinary influences, creating a truly unique and memorable meal. The atmosphere was perfect for younger guests, pretty noisy and a lot of energy. I had an amazing dining experience! The food was incredibly delicious and unlike anything I've tasted before. The chef expertly blended different culinary influences, creating a truly unique and memorable meal.


Discover The Decadente in Lisbon: where tradition meets modernity in an unforgettable dining experience surrounded by stunning views.

After lunch, I indulged in a bit of retail therapy at El Corte Inglés Lisboa. This department store is a symbol of innovation and modernity, offering a wide selection of international luxury and exclusive Portuguese designer brands. It was a one-stop shop for everything imaginable, from fashion and cosmetics to gourmet culinary products. The personalized service and attention to detail made the shopping experience truly exceptional. It started as a small tailor shop in Madrid in 1940 and has grown into a world-renowned luxury shopping destination with over 90 stores across the Iberian Peninsula. Visiting El Corte Inglés is more than just shopping; it's an experience. The store offers everything from ready-to-wear fashion and fine jewelry to gourmet foods and dining options. It's a place where you can find both international luxury brands and exclusive Portuguese designs. I spent a couple of hours browsing the various departments, enjoying the luxurious atmosphere and the impeccable service.


Explore the vibrant shopping experience at El Corte Inglés Lisboa, featuring a diverse range of products, delightful dining options, and cultural events.

As the day drew to a close, I decided to treat myself to a pre-dinner cocktail at Gin Lovers Bar & Restaurant. Located in the trendy Principe Real neighborhood, this bar boasts an impressive selection of gins and creative cocktails. The ambiance was charming, and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable. It was the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a busy day of exploring. Gin Lovers Bar & Restaurant is located inside the Embaixada, a concept boutique mall. The building itself, the Ribeiro da Cunha Palace, is stunning, with Moorish influences and dramatically high ceilings. The bar offers over 60 gins on the menu, with creative cocktails to match. The atmosphere is terrific, and the decor is charming. It's a great place to enjoy delicious, creative cocktails and unwind after a day of exploring Lisbon. The food was excellent as well!


Experience the ultimate gin journey at Gin Lovers Bar & Restaurant in Lisbon, where exceptional spirits meet delightful culinary creations.

For dinner, I chose JNcQUOI Avenida, a restaurant known for its international cuisine and stylish ambiance. The food was exceptional, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect ending to a day of indulgence and exploration. The restaurant has an unusual name, derived from the French expression je ne sais quoi, and a cosmopolitan elegance. The restaurant has a dinosaur skeleton in the center of the dining room. The dining room has frescoes and an open kitchen, creating a dramatic and stunning atmosphere. The cuisine is Portuguese and international, with a wine list of over 500 references. The restaurant is known for its style and top-tier flavors, with dishes like ribeye steak that could win awards. The decor is lovely, and the atmosphere is exotic. The restaurant has been recognized by Michelin as one of the best addresses in Lisbon, providing high-grade service.


Experience unparalleled dining at JNcQUOI Avenida, where luxury meets culinary artistry in the heart of Lisbon.

Before heading back to my hotel, I took a leisurely stroll along Avenida da Liberdade, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city at night. Lisbon truly comes alive after dark, with its bustling streets, lively bars, and illuminated landmarks. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Oceanário de Lisboa and Parque das Nações, venturing into the more modern side of the city.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. Every corner turned revealed something new, a fresh perspective, a reason to be grateful for the opportunity to experience life in all its vibrant shades. It's days like these that stay with you, shaping your memories and coloring your dreams.