A Lisbon love affair

Must-Do's In The Portuguese Capital City

Set on seven perfect hills, Lisbon is the delightful, perfectly-sized epicentre of Portugal covered in Art Nouveau cafés and stunning monuments. A mere plane hop away, it is perfect for a hot weekend jaunt. The lively faces, delectable food and surrounding waters tick every box.

Lisbon

Where to stay

No longer content with a comfortable bed and a Continental breakfast, discerning travellers the world over want more from their accommodation these days. Much more. The Corinthia Hotel in Lisbon and its epic, 3,000 square meter “Malo” spa are sure to please. Sweeping marble floors, elegant outdoor dining terraces and velvet seating abound. The rooms are apartment-sized in some cases and the level of luxury and comfort is unsurpassed.

Where to spa

The heart within Lisboa’s business district has to be the spa heaven on the second floor of The Corinthia Hotel. Founded by dental King Dr. Paulo Malo (the man responsible for pioneering modern dental implants,) the Malo Spa is an extension of his belief in “medical spas,” but also has all the expected holistic massages and ayurvedic treatments. As a result, his marriage of both medical and aesthetic wellness and health offers everything from face radiofrequency treatment to Botox, a classic Clarins facial to manicures and pedicures: This is literally the place to have a head to toe makeover from inside and out.

Where to eat

In the recently renovated dock area of the city sits trendy Kais. Clams in coriander and octopus Carpaccio are the order of the day in this gorgeous old fishing warehouse that has maintained all its original structural features. The space is filled with large oak tables, comfortable chairs and high candelabras. The atmosphere is very romantic but, simultaneously, buzzing, so many diners drift from table to outside bar area for cocktails on the water.

Where to shop

Lisbon is considered one of the most reasonable of Western capital cities, so one can shop here without breaking the bank. Baixa (the downtown area) is very popular for those seeking traditional and unique trinkets. Tiles, ceramics and textiles are big business in Portugal and, as a result, some of the best finds can be found in Lisbon. Avenida da Liberdade is the street for those wanting Vuitton and Gucci while the Chiado quarter is the district for ever-popular Zara and H&M. Foodies will adore the colourful Ribera Market for local produce and smiling, characterful faces selling their wares.