A Picture-Perfect Weekend in Lisbon: Sun, Hills, and Endless Photo Opportunities
Lisbon had always intrigued me, so when the opportunity arose for a long weekend escape, I knew I had to take it. The city’s blend of rich history, charming streets, and vibrant culture promised a getaway that would be both exciting and full of discovery. From the moment I landed, the sunny weather and laid-back vibe made me feel at home. And for someone with a camera in hand at all times, Lisbon turned out to be an absolute dream for street photography.
Exploring Lisbon’s Hilly Charm
Lisbon is a city built on seven hills, and you certainly feel that when you’re walking around! The steep, winding streets added a sense of adventure, and every corner seemed to offer a new, postcard-perfect view. I was constantly reaching for my camera as I strolled through the narrow alleyways, capturing the tiled buildings, colourful facades, and vibrant life happening around me.
The famous trams, especially the iconic yellow Tram 28, were a real highlight for me. These charming, rickety old trams climbing up the cobbled streets made for some fantastic shots. I spent a good while finding the right angles to snap photos of the trams weaving between buildings, creating a scene that felt like stepping back in time. One of my favourite shots was catching the tram as it passed by a beautiful row of pastel-coloured houses—one of those moments where everything aligned perfectly.
Street Photography and Beautiful Tiles
Lisbon is a haven for street photographers. The people were incredibly kind and welcoming, and I found myself often pausing to capture the daily life unfolding around me. From market vendors arranging their produce to elderly locals chatting in the shade, the city is alive with personality. My lens was constantly drawn to the little details: the intricate patterns of azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles) that adorned almost every building. These tiles, in shades of blue and white, added such a unique and vibrant character to the city. I found myself wandering down side streets just to find new designs to photograph. It’s like the city has a story to tell in every tile.
The Lively Mercado da Ribeira: A Foodie’s Dream
One of my must-visits was the Mercado da Ribeira, Lisbon’s famed food market. It’s a hub of flavours and aromas, a great spot to not only taste some amazing food but also capture the energy of the place with my camera. I sampled everything from local pastries like pastéis de nata to mouth-watering seafood dishes. Every stall had something unique to offer, and I couldn’t resist documenting it all—the vibrant colours of the fresh produce, the sizzling grills, and the craftsmanship behind every dish.
The market provided a great contrast to the quieter, more historic parts of the city. Photographing the hustle and bustle of the food stalls was an exciting challenge, as I tried to freeze moments of people interacting with the food, vendors expertly preparing dishes, and the general excitement of visitors discovering new tastes.
Discovering Lisbon’s Old-World Charm
One of the best parts of Lisbon is just how compact and walkable the city is. With just a few days, I was able to explore so much. I wandered through the historic neighbourhood of Alfama, with its narrow streets and hidden courtyards, offering a peek into old Lisbon. Walking through Alfama felt like uncovering a secret every few steps. The streets twist and turn in ways that make it easy to get lost, but that’s where the magic happens—stumbling upon tiny cafés, street musicians, and stunning views over the rooftops to the River Tagus.
I also made time to visit the iconic Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks. The tower, perched right on the riverbank, provided a great backdrop for some creative compositions with the water in the foreground. The light reflecting off the white stone was stunning, especially as the sun began to set.
Relaxing Vibes and Friendly Locals
The thing about Lisbon is that it has this relaxed, unhurried vibe that invites you to slow down and take it all in. Even in the more touristy areas, the atmosphere remained easy-going. The locals were incredibly kind and always willing to help or share recommendations, which made wandering around the city even more enjoyable. I always felt welcome when I stopped to ask for directions or advice on where to eat. This friendliness really came through in my photography—capturing the warmth and hospitality of the people added a personal touch to my shots.
A Short but Sweet Getaway
In the end, Lisbon was the perfect long weekend break. Its blend of history, culture, and fantastic food, all wrapped up in sunshine, left me feeling both energised and relaxed. The city’s steep hills, historic trams, and vibrant tiles created the ideal backdrop for photography, making every moment feel like an adventure. I came back with so many great memories, not just of the places I visited, but of the people and the small moments in between. Lisbon is one of those cities that invites you to explore, get lost, and simply enjoy the beauty around you.
Would I return? Absolutely! There’s still so much of the city left to discover, and I’d love to go back with more time to dive deeper into its hidden gems.