Traveling solo as a woman can feel intimidating, but it can also be one of the most liberating and exhilarating experiences of your life. I decided to take the plunge and embark on a solo adventure to Lisbon, a city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Armed with a sense of curiosity and a well-packed suitcase, I set off on a journey that would leave me with memories to last a lifetime. Here’s a glimpse into my solo adventure in the Portuguese capital.
The First Steps: Arriving in Lisbon Solo
Landing at Lisbon Portela Airport, I was immediately hit with a mix of excitement and nervousness. It was my first time traveling alone, and my senses were on high alert. As I stepped out into the arrivals hall, I was greeted by the warm, Mediterranean air and the friendly smiles of locals. My first task was to navigate my way to my Airbnb in the heart of the city. With a pre-booked airport transfer, I was whisked away to the charming Alfama district, where narrow cobbled streets and colorful buildings awaited.
Once I arrived at my cozy little apartment, I took a moment to absorb my surroundings. The Alfama district is a maze of history, with every corner telling a story of its Moorish past. I spent the first evening wandering the labyrinthine alleys, savoring the sound of Fado music drifting from nearby taverns. As the sun set over the city, casting a golden hue on the terracotta rooftops, I knew I had made the right choice in coming to Lisbon.
The next morning, I woke up early, eager to explore more of this captivating city. I headed to the famous Praça do Comércio, a grand square flanked by elegant yellow buildings and the sparkling Tagus River. The square was bustling with life, from street performers to locals enjoying their morning coffee. I felt a sense of freedom and joy in being able to set my own pace and follow my own whims. Lisbon was my oyster, and I was ready to dive in.
Exploring Hidden Gems and Local Delights
One of the most delightful aspects of traveling solo is the freedom to discover hidden gems that might otherwise go unnoticed. On my second day, I ventured to the LX Factory, a trendy hub of creativity housed in a former industrial complex. With its eclectic mix of boutiques, art studios, and quirky cafes, it was the perfect place to spend an afternoon. I sipped on a refreshing lemonade while browsing through vintage finds, and even picked up a few souvenirs to remind me of my adventure.
A trip to Lisbon wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. I made it a point to sample as many local dishes as possible, from the iconic pastéis de nata to savory bacalhau à brás. One evening, I stumbled upon a small, family-run restaurant in the Bairro Alto district. The owner welcomed me with open arms, and I spent the night feasting on traditional Portuguese food and chatting with fellow diners. It was in these moments that I felt a deep connection to the city and its people.
For my final hidden gem, I took a tram ride to the Belém district to visit the lesser-known Jardim Botânico Tropical. This tranquil oasis, filled with exotic plants and serene ponds, was a world away from the bustling city center. As I wandered through the garden’s winding paths, I felt a sense of peace and fulfillment. It was the perfect place to reflect on my journey and appreciate the beauty of solo travel.
My solo adventure in Lisbon taught me more than just the joys of exploring a new city; it taught me about the strength and resilience that comes from stepping out of your comfort zone. From navigating unfamiliar streets to making new friends, every experience added a new layer to my understanding of myself and the world around me. Lisbon embraced me with open arms, and I left with a heart full of gratitude and a camera full of memories. For any woman contemplating a solo trip, I can’t recommend it enough. Your adventure awaits; all you need to do is take the first step.
Gonzalo
Founder/Owner of The Lisbon Guide, one of the major blog references in Portugal, established in 2014 and receiving every year 250.000 visitors from all over the world, looking to provide the best experiences in Portugal. In partnership with Portugal Magik for all private tours and transfers across Portugal, Gonzalo loves a good seafood meal at Monte Mar Cascais, and all from Michelin Chef Avillez. Favorite Hotel in Lisbon/Portugal, Penha Longa Resort by Ritz Carlton.
For over 15 years, Gonzalo have been helping thousands of travelers yearly to plan a perfect trip to Portugal. Based in Lisbon/Cascais and working in this field for over 20 years, with multiple ongoing projects. Also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide.
Many years working also as a Private Guide of Lisbon, Sintra, Fatima, Porto, Douro Valley, Evora, and other locations in Portugal.
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