21 Dec 2025
Rain had settled over the city in the morning, but that didn’t stop us from starting the day with a walk up to Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district. Narrow winding streets, colorful houses, and the scent of wet stone set the scene. We headed straight to a mirador (viewpoint) to take in sweeping views of the city.
🍊 Alfama & the Orange Trees
On the way, we noticed a surprising number of orange trees lining the streets. A local guide explained that these oranges are not for eating—they’re bitter Seville oranges, planted historically to perfume the city and add ornamental beauty rather than culinary value. Though their fragrance is exquisite, the taste is intensely sour. It was amusing to wonder why no one picked the fallen fruit—social etiquette and respect for public greenery kept us from trying them ourselves.
We ducked into a nearby church to escape the rain. The church was beautiful, with its soaring ceilings and intricate tilework, yet I couldn’t help but suspect many visitors there were simply seeking shelter, just like me. It was a quiet moment, punctuated by the soft sound of raindrops outside.
📸 Miradouro Photography Fun
Leaving the viewpoint, we stumbled upon a shop with a glass façade that perfectly mirrored the street and the sunlight at just the right angle. My friend and I spent 15 minutes trying to capture the perfect photo, laughing at our silliness. It was one of those small, absurd joys of travel—memories made in the moment, no one else around, and the shop owner blissfully undisturbed.
🌊 From Alfama to the Waterfront
After soaking in the views from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, we made our way down toward the seaside. The walk from Baixa through the Alfama district is a visual journey in itself: ancient tiled façades, cobbled streets, and glimpses of the Tagus River through narrow alleys.
Our next stop was Time Out Market for lunch. The selection of food was varied, and though the main dishes were just okay, the gelato was exceptional—worth the brief shiver of eating it on a rainy winter day.
🏛️ Belem: Monastery and Tower
Next, we headed toward Belém, home to some of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.
- Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos): We admired it from outside. This UNESCO World Heritage site, completed in 1601, is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and maritime motifs—a reminder of Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
- Belém Tower (Torre de Belém): Guarding the Tagus River, this fortress served as both ceremonial gateway and defensive bulwark during Portugal’s seafaring era. Even under rain, the tower’s limestone facade and intricate battlements were striking against the grey sky.
The Belém waterfront is a flatter walk than Alfama, which makes it accessible even on wet days, and offers stunning perspectives of Lisbon’s maritime history.
🎄 Evening Festivities
After returning to the hotel to rest and dry off, we ventured out in the evening to the Christmas market near Marquês de Pombal. Twinkling lights, festive stalls, and the scent of mulled wine provided a cozy close to a rainy day in Lisbon.
✨ Reflection
Though rain persisted throughout the day, it offered a unique way to experience the city: quieter streets, reflective surfaces, and a more intimate feel at viewpoints and landmarks. Alfama, the Tagus waterfront, and Belém all told the story of Lisbon’s maritime legacy, architectural heritage, and enduring charm, making it a fruitful and memorable day despite the weather.
📍 Places Highlighted
- Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara – panoramic city views
- Alfama – historic district, narrow alleys, orange trees
- Time Out Market – food hall and gelato
- Jerónimos Monastery – Manueline architecture, UNESCO site
- Belém Tower – historic fortification by the Tagus River
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