Fado in Lisbon

Where do I even start about Lisbon? First, we didn’t even get to explore all the beauty that it has to offer (we were there for like, 2 days, ugh). And second, it was a little chilly and cloudy. But, we did go in December, so, obviously. All I know is, we will be going back one day.

The streets and storefronts are so charming. It is a cute, enclosed, small city that is bustling with life and extremely walkable. However, it is pretty hilly so that was a little hard. But, the square near the water was comforting and easy to get to. It was Christmas, so everywhere was decorated. They even had a Christmas market! It was actually one of my faves I’ve been to. It was small, had great vendors, and was surrounded by old, beautiful buildings.

Our hotel, 9Mercy Hotel, was great! It was clean, the staff was amazing, and it was in a good location - only a 12 minute walk from the square! On the way, you’ll find restaurants with outdoor seating (love love that) all down the street, leading to the Arc and the square. There was also a lot of artists selling handmade art, which is my dream!

For our cultural outing, we had dinner with traditional Fado music. It started as a historical walking tour, and ended at a restaurant with a small Fado music band. I don’t even know how to explain Fado music, other than soulful and deep - it is meant to be sad and melancholic. The singer was amazing, and the band. Portugal even has their own guitar, a Portuguese guitar, that they play Fado with.

The people of Lisbon are fantastic and sweet. We went to a sports bar to watch the Bears game, and they were playing all American football, as it seems to reach some people there. But nonetheless, Lisbon is just a city to have fun and be yourself. I cannot wait to go back, I wish so much we had more time. Until next time.