Portugal’s capital is alive from morning to night, with the famous yellow trams plying their routes, jacarandas, purple trees blooming in early summer and locals partying (and singing fado) until the early hours. morning hours.

If you want to get the full Lisbon experience, some tourist activities are non-negotiable, from eating pastéis de nata (custard tart) to taking the train to the palaces of nearby Sintra.

And after you’ve covered the classics, add a few more to-do’s to your list.

Where to stay: 1908 Lisboa Hotel

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There are plenty of options in the city—but few beat the 1908 boutique Lisboa Hotel for design and incredible location. In addition to the rooms created in Art Deco style, there is the hotel’s Infame restaurant where you can enjoy delicious seafood. The hotel is also right next to the Largo do Intendente square, which is full of bars and restaurants (note: drinks at Casa Independente and snacks at Palma Cantina).

For brunch: Dear Breakfast

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You will find Dear Breakfast in three cities, Bica, Chiado and Alfama. Drink a “pink” latte or a green smoothie and try them on the delicious eggs benedict or the sweet pancakes.

Another morning, choose The Mill—and be sure to go early. Serves flat whites as well as avo-on-toast. Once you’re done take the yellow tram number 28 up the hill.

For cocktails: Pavilhão Chinês

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It’s easy to miss the entrance to this speakeasy in the bohemian neighborhood of Bairro Alto. The former grocery store looks abandoned on a street full of restaurants. But once you ring the bell, you’ll find yourself in five bustling rooms—and an impressive collection of vintage toys and art. There is also a special alcohol list that you won’t find anywhere else. Try Magic Star.

To learn more about the city and its history

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It’s all about the tiles in Lisbon. To learn more go to the Museu Nacional do Azulejo. While located at the Madre de Deus Convent, located a little outside the center in Xabregas, it’s worth the trip to see a collection of pieces dating back to the 1400s. Be sure to check out the hotel’s beautiful cafe, too.

If you love history you must visit the ruins of the medieval Carmo monastery in Chiado, where you can learn about the infamous 1755 earthquake that shook Lisbon.

Finally, one of the best ways to get to know the city is on foot—remember that.

For purchases: LX Factory

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What began in 1846 as a factory complex is now a bustling maze of local producers and restaurants. Discover handmade vases, brightly colored dresses and vintage sunglasses as you stroll the cobbled streets. Then you can sit on one of the dozens of patios. Try 1300 Taberna for a taste of bacalhau (codfish, a Portuguese staple) or grilled octopus. Otherwise head to Ni Michi for fresh empanadas, tacos and juices.

For flavors that charm the globe: JNcQuoi Asia

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Whether you choose the outdoor terrace with the luxurious bar or the red and yellow dining room, a unique experience awaits you at JNcQuoi. The authentic Avenida restaurant offers a Portuguese menu while combining influences from China, Japan, India and Thailand. You’ll find tandoori chicken, grilled wagyu and spicy pad Thai. For dessert, order “Rhinoceros Drool” – a custard with caramel, cookies and crunchy chocolate pieces.

For a trip back in time: Berardo Museu Arte Deco

In the new B-MAD museum, you will see works of art from the former summer home of the Marquis of Abrantes. Art Deco and Art Nouveau pieces from the 1920s and 1930s, paintings and sculptures to lighting and furniture. Visitors cannot enter the museum without a guide, so book your tour (comes with wine tasting!) early.

For sunset views: Furanai Sailboat Tours

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Many visitors to Lisbon take the ferry to watch the sunset from Ponto Final, a riverside patio that takes reservations for weeks after. Watching the sky turn pink from the deck of a vintage sailboat is magical. Not only can you sip your wine while the wind blows your hair, but you’ll also see sights like Bélem Tower, Castelo de São Jorge and the Sanctuary of Christ the King monument from a completely different angle.