Table of Contents

Lisbon is a city of light,
where every corner holds a story,
every meal is a celebration,
and every sunset whispers a new beginning.
My daughter and I recently had a long layover in Lisbon on our journey from Pittsburgh to Seville, and we made the most of our short time in this vibrant city. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and unbeatable culinary scene, Lisbon offered the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening. If you’re lucky enough to have a one-night layover in Lisbon, why not make the most of it? In just a few hours, you can explore some of the city’s most iconic sights, indulge in delicious local treats, and soak up its soulful music.
We stayed near Praça da Figueira, a central spot that made it easy to explore on foot or catch a quick taxi from the nearby stand. Its location was perfect for taking in the city’s vibrant energy, with tram stops just a short walk away. From there, we were able to easily dive into Lisbon’s charm and make the most of our time.

Ride An Iconic Yellow Funicular
No visit to Lisbon is complete without hopping aboard one of the city’s iconic yellow modes of transportation. There are three in total: two historic funiculars and one classic tram. Start your mini adventure by heading to Glória, a funicular just a short walk from Praça da Figueira. Along the way, stop to try ginjinha, a beloved Portuguese cherry liqueur. You’ll find small window stands where you can grab a quick shot of this sweet, flavorful drink—an easy way to sip on Lisbon’s spirit as you continue exploring.
The Glória funicular offers a brief but stunning ride up the hill, treating you to panoramic views of the city’s colorful rooftops, winding streets, and the Tagus River in the distance. Glória’s quieter atmosphere makes it ideal if you’re looking to experience Lisbon without the hustle and bustle. Once you reach the top, you’ll find plenty of hidden alleys and breathtaking viewpoints, perfect for a little exploration and photography.


Indulge in a Traditional Portuguese Pastry at A Brasileira
From the top of Glória, enjoy a short walk to A Brasileira, one of Lisbon’s most iconic cafés. Located in the lively Chiado neighborhood, this historic café has been a local and visitor favorite since 1905. The atmosphere is vibrant, with people chatting over espresso and enjoying the city’s rich café culture.
Here, you’ll find some of the best pastel de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) in the city. The flaky, buttery pastry with its creamy custard filling is an absolute must-try. Pair it with a café (perhaps a bica, which is Lisbon’s version of espresso) and unwind in the grand yet cozy setting. The café’s Art Nouveau-style décor adds to the charm, making it the perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the local vibe.


Embrace the City on Your Way to Alfama
After your pastry break, take a leisurely walk through Chiado and Baixa, making your way toward Alfama. Along the way, you can browse beautiful fashion shops offering unique, locally-made items. Many of the boutiques feature hand-crafted wool pieces, from cozy scarves to colorful sweaters. Lisbon is renowned for its artisanal craftsmanship, and shopping here is the perfect way to find something special to take home. We couldn’t resist picking up a hand-painted rooster for our kitchen—a symbol of good luck and a beloved national icon in Portugal. These charming, colorful souvenirs are often found in local shops, and each one is a unique work of art.
Alternatively, while you’re in the area, hop on Tram 28—one of Lisbon’s most iconic rides. Starting near Rua do Arsenal or Praça Luís de Camões, the tram takes you through some of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods, including Baixa, Graça, and the historic Alfama district. It’s a fun and scenic way to experience Lisbon’s charm in one brief, unforgettable ride.

Tapas with a view
Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, is a maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and labyrinthine alleys. The views from here are nothing short of magical, especially at sunset. Head to the Memmo Alfama Hotel, where the rooftop tapas bar offers a terrace with stunning views of the district—perfect for enjoying delicious food while taking in the scenery.
Consider ordering some tapas (small plates) to experience Portugal’s culinary diversity. You’ll find everything from grilled sardines to crispy croquettes, spicy chorizo, and salted cod, all washed down with a refreshing glass of verde wine. We particularly enjoyed crispy goat cheese—a rich, savory delight that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of Portuguese cuisine. For dessert, we treated ourselves to churros dipped in rich chocolate, the perfect sweet end to a satisfying meal.
There’s something unforgettably special about the ambiance here—delicious food, unbeatable views, and the calm, peaceful atmosphere of Lisbon. You’ll likely fall in love with the city in no time, just like we did.




End Your Night with Fado
Finish off this unforgettable evening in Lisbon with fado, the soulful, melancholic music that embodies the heart of the city’s culture. Casa de Linhares is one of the best venues in Lisbon to experience an intimate, authentic fado performance. Nestled in the heart of Alfama, this cozy, atmospheric space will transport you to another time.
Fado singers, accompanied by the haunting sounds of the traditional Portuguese guitar, deliver songs filled with longing, love, and loss. The experience is deeply emotional, and the passion of the performers is palpable. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in Lisbon’s rich cultural heritage.
Afterward, you can take a short taxi ride back to Praça da Figueira or enjoy a peaceful stroll through the charming streets of Alfama, reflecting on the beautiful moments you’ve had.


Bonus Tips for Your Layover
- Transportation: Lisbon’s metro, trams, and buses are all efficient and easy to use, so getting around the city is a breeze. If you only have a few hours, consider purchasing a 24-hour travel pass to get the most value. Taxis are also a great option if you’re short on time.
- Stay near the center: Since your time is limited, try to stay in a central location, We stayed in Praça da Figueira. This square is close to many of the main attractions, making it easy to walk or take a quick taxi ride.
- Time it right: Fado performances typically start around 9:00 PM, so make sure to plan your evening accordingly to fit in dinner, tapas, and that priceless sunset view.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Evening in Lisbon
Though your time in Lisbon may be brief, spending a single night in this charming city can be an unforgettable experience. From the thrilling ride on the Gloria funicular to indulging in pastéis de nata, savoring tapas with a stunning view, and soaking in the sounds of fado, Lisbon offers the perfect combination of food, culture, and scenic beauty—all packed into one perfect evening.
Next time you find yourself with a layover in Lisbon, make sure to take a little time to explore—it’s more than worth it!
The print shop
If you’d like to purchase travel photographs from Lisbon, please check out my print shop!