If you are a shoe lover, head straight to lachoix, where Portuguese designer Fatima Carvalho has created a treasure trove of possibilities. There are pony skin loafers, velvet slippers, multi-coloured leather penny loafers and more. Not only do they look beautiful, but these shoes are made to last and offer a blissful level of comfort.
Save room in your suitcase for the delicious soaps and scents of Clausporto, as much a part of Portuguese life as their custard tarts.
Architecture
That Lisbon was built on seven hills is as famous as the yellow trams that trundle up and down them. If you don’t want to hop on the no 28 tram which, though crowded with tourists, takes the strain off your legs as it passes many of the sights, you can just walk. Start in Alfama, the old Moorish quarter which brims with atmosphere, where you might hear the strains of Fado, the haunting music that was born in these streets. St. George’s Castle is here, one of Lisbon’s landmarks, its turrets standing proud against the skyline. Walking down from there you will find the Sé, Lisbon’s Cathedral, the oldest church in the city it dates from the 12th century. Church lovers should make a point of visiting Igreja São Roque, in Chiado. Its austere facade belies the ornate, gilded, interiors within, which really form an important collection of Mannerist and Baroque decorative arts.
Bars
After you have exhausted the streets of Lisbon, it is time to sit above them with a glass of Portuguese wine in one of the many rooftop bars. If you want a buzz to accompany the view head to the Sky Bar, for good cocktails and a great vibe. Quieter is the roof top on the Bairro Alto hotel, but the light is lovely as the sun goes down over the red roofs.
Beaches
Finally, you will have deserved a trip to a beach. There are many within easy reach of the centre. You can take the little train to Cascais, which trundles along the coast and takes about 30 minutes. There, there is the Praia de Rainha, or Queen’s Beach, which was chosen to be the private beach of Queen Amélia in 1889 and has been called that ever since. Near it restaurants abound, if you want to make a day of it. Alternatively, head out by car (or bus) to Costa da Caparica, a blindingly white sand beach which stretches almost 10 kilometres. Famous for its sunsets, there are several places from which to watch them from. A favourite of the chic Lisboetas is Praia Princesa, so book a table before you go and settle down with a glass of rosé in hand to toast how Europe’s second oldest city is so enticing to a 21st-century visitor.
