Lisbon
The local area
In equal parts Lisbon is historic, sun-soaked, atmospheric and effortlessly vibrant. The city draws you in with its mosaic of tiled façades, grand squares and winding cobbled streets that unfold across its seven hills. It is a place best explored slowly, where wandering reveals hidden viewpoints, quiet corners and traditional cafés at every turn.
Known as the "city of seven hills", Lisbon offers sweeping views across rooftops, church domes and pastel-coloured buildings cascading towards the Tagus River. From your luxury apartment in Chiado, you are perfectly positioned to take in these ever-changing perspectives and experience the city's unique rhythm from above.
The History of Lisbon
The history of Lisbon unfolds across the city in front of you, reflected in its layered architecture, coastal setting, and distinct neighbourhoods that tell the story of a capital shaped by centuries of exploration, trade, and transformation.
From its early origins as a Phoenician and later Roman settlement, Lisbon developed into a strategic maritime hub under Moorish rule before becoming the centre of the Portuguese Age of Discovery. During this period, explorers set sail from the Tagus River, helping establish global trade routes that defined Portugal's influence across Africa, Asia, and South America.
Much of the city was dramatically reshaped after the devastating earthquake of 1755, which led to the reconstruction of the Baixa district under the vision of the Marquis of Pombal, introducing one of Europe's earliest examples of planned urban design.
Today, Lisbon is a rich architectural tapestry where Manueline, Baroque, Pombaline, and contemporary styles sit side by side. This can be seen in landmarks ranging from the historic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, to the elegant grid of Baixa and the modern riverfront developments along the Tagus.
Together, these influences create a city that feels both historic and alive, where centuries of history are visible at every turn, from hilltop castles and tiled façades to grand squares and contemporary architecture along the waterfront.
What to See & Do in Lisbon
Our luxury apartment is located in the heart of Chiado, on the elegant Largo Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro, one of Lisbon's most charming squares. From here, Baixa, Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real and the riverfront are all within easy walking distance, placing you at the centre of the city's most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Chiado reflects Lisbon's layered history, where restored Pombaline architecture sits alongside theatres, traditional cafés, tiled façades and contemporary boutiques. Staying here allows you to explore at your own pace, whether browsing shops, visiting galleries, or stopping for coffee in iconic spots such as A Brasileira.
Nearby viewpoints and gardens offer moments of calm, with sweeping views towards the Tagus River and shaded spaces to pause between exploring. Lisbon's major cultural landmarks, including Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, are also within easy reach.
Lisbon is a city made for walking, and Chiado provides the perfect base to experience its history, culture and everyday rhythm.
Food and Drink in Lisbon
Lisbon has developed a strong reputation as one of Europe's most enjoyable cities for food and drink, combining traditional Portuguese flavours with a growing contemporary dining and craft drinks scene. While Portugal is historically known for its wine production - particularly Vinho Verde, Douro reds, and fortified Port from the north - Lisbon itself has seen a rise in modern wine bars and craft beer spots that showcase both local and international producers.
These can be enjoyed in traditional neighbourhood taverns, known as tascas, alongside more contemporary wine bars in areas such as Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Príncipe Real. Places like Pavilhão Chinês or smaller local wine bars offer a relaxed and atmospheric setting to experience Lisbon's evening culture.
Lisbon also has a deeply rooted culinary tradition shaped by the sea. During your stay, you can try classic dishes such as bacalhau à brás (salted cod with egg and potatoes), freshly grilled sardines, and amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (clams with garlic and coriander). For something sweet, iconic pastries such as the pastel de nata are an essential part of the city's food culture, best enjoyed warm from a traditional bakery.
From simple neighbourhood cafés to refined restaurants, Lisbon's food scene reflects its history, coastal identity, and easygoing lifestyle, making it an integral part of the city experience during your stay in Chiado.
