Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is a city that effortlessly blends tradition and modernity. Set across seven hills and overlooking the sparkling Tagus River, Lisbon is famous for its colourful streets, historic tram rides, delicious food, and stunning viewpoints. Whether you’re exploring the cobbled alleys of Alfama, admiring the grandeur of Belém, or soaking up the lively atmosphere of Bairro Alto, Lisbon offers something for every type of traveller.
Lisbon is a city that captures your heart the moment you arrive. Set across seven hills and overlooking the wide Tagus River, it’s a place where history, culture, and modern life blend effortlessly. With its pastel-coloured buildings, iconic trams, and sweeping viewpoints, Lisbon is full of charm, but never feels overly polished – it’s real, vibrant, and full of character.
Wandering through the city feels like stepping into a postcard. From the winding alleys of Alfama to the elegant streets of Chiado and the buzzing nightlife of Bairro Alto, each neighbourhood has its own personality. You can spend your morning exploring historic castles and monasteries, your afternoon sipping coffee in sun-drenched squares, and your evening dining on fresh seafood with a view of the river.
Food lovers will be in their element – Lisbon is a city that eats well. Tuck into grilled sardines, savour a creamy pastéis de nata from a local bakery, or enjoy a meal in a stylish modern restaurant serving Portuguese dishes with a twist. Pair it all with a glass of local wine or a chilled vinho verde, and you’re set.
But what really sets Lisbon apart is its atmosphere. It’s a capital city with a village feel – friendly, laid-back, and never in a rush. The weather helps, too. With warm sunshine throughout the spring and summer, Lisbon is ideal for outdoor living – whether that’s enjoying a sunset from a rooftop bar, strolling along the waterfront, or simply watching the world go by from a terrace café.
Add in fascinating history, striking architecture, welcoming locals, and great value for money – and it’s easy to see why Lisbon has become one of Europe’s top city break destinations. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Lisbon always leaves you wanting more.
Suggestions for what to do with your time...
Thursday
Arrive at the hotel and take some time to settle in. Once you’re ready, head out for a relaxed wander around the local area — it’s a great way to get your bearings and start soaking up Lisbon’s atmosphere. In the evening, you might like to try one of the many traditional Portuguese restaurants nearby.
Friday
Today is a great opportunity to explore Lisbon’s historic heart. You could take in areas like Alfama, Rossio Square and the Elevador de Santa Justa, as well as some of the city’s stunning viewpoints. If you fancy it, hop on the famous Tram 28 or visit one of the local museums. The evening is yours to enjoy — whether that’s a relaxed dinner or heading out to experience the buzz of Bairro Alto.
Saturday
Why not head over to the riverside district of Belém, home to some of Lisbon’s most iconic sights including Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. It’s also the perfect place to try the famous pastéis de nata. In the afternoon, you could opt for a boat trip along the Tagus River or simply enjoy more time exploring at your own pace.
Sunday
Enjoy a relaxed morning and final breakfast at the hotel before departure. Head to the airport and then back to the UK.
Please note - airport transfers are not included with this holiday as the quickest transport into the city from the airport is by metro and there is a stop very close to the hotel. Details of how to use the metro service will be provided with the joining information before departure.
My Story Hotel Tejo is a stylish and characterful hotel where comfort and attention to detail come together to create a truly welcoming stay.
Set across six floors, the hotel’s 135 rooms have been thoughtfully designed to blend historic charm with modern style. Original features, including beautifully restored 18th-century Pombaline wood, have been carefully incorporated throughout, giving the hotel a real sense of Lisbon’s heritage while still feeling fresh and contemporary.
From the hotel, you can take in lovely views of São Jorge Castle — a landmark that naturally draws you in to explore. Just a short walk away is Figueira Square, where you can hop on the iconic Tram 28 and wind your way through Lisbon’s most traditional and picturesque neighbourhoods.
Augusta Street is also close by, leading down to the scenic riverside and the impressive Comércio Square. From here, you’ll enjoy stunning views across the Tagus River — the inspiration behind the hotel’s name.
Located right in the heart of downtown Lisbon, next to Figueira Square, the hotel is perfectly placed for exploring the city. Lisbon Airport is around 7 km away, and the nearest metro stations — Rossio (green line) and Restauradores (blue line) — are both within easy reach. For rail connections, Santa Apolónia, Oriente and Rossio stations are all accessible, making travel in and out of the city straightforward.
Tram stops at Figueira Square (lines 12 and 15) and nearby Martim Moniz Square (line 28) make it easy to explore Lisbon in a relaxed and scenic way.
All in all, it’s a perfect base for discovering Lisbon, combining location, comfort and a real sense of place.
Provisional Flight Information
15/04/27 Gatwick to Lisbon Dep: 1020 Arr: 1310
18/04/27 Lisbon to Gatwick Dep: 1930 Arr: 2210
15/04/27 Heathrow to Lisbon Dep: 0800 Arr: 1050
18/04/27 Lisbon to Heathrow Dep: 2010 Arr: 2255
15/04/27 Stansted to Lisbon Dep: 0945 Arr: 1235
18/04/27 Lisbon to Stansted Dep: 2035 Arr: 2320
15/04/27 Manchester to Lisbon Dep: 1035 Arr: 1340
18/04/27 Lisbon to Manchester Dep: 1720 Arr: 2010
15/04/27 Luton to Lisbon Dep: 0630 Arr: 0935
18/04/27 Lisbon to Luton Dep: 1545 Arr: 1840
15/04/27 Edinburgh to Lisbon Dep: 0555 Arr: 0915
18/04/27 Lisbon to Edinburgh Dep: 1850 Arr: 2205
Included luggage allowance 10kg
flights
a taste of lisbon accommodation
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Passport validity
For UK passport holders your passport must be:
You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System)
The rules of travel to most European countries have changed. Starting in the first half of 2025 UK citizens are required to have a travel authorisation to enter 30 European countries for a short stay.
ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to a number of European countries. It is linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation.
With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays - normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport (and other documents if required) and verify that you meet the entry conditions.
NB - There is no official date for the ETIAS currently confirmed but when it is introduced it will be your responsibility to ensure that you have arranged this. We will update everyone when the ETIAS is required with information on how to apply for this online.
Travel Insurance
Please ensure that you have adequate personal travel insurance to suit your requirements in place before you travel. Spice Escapes have arranged a scheme with Staysure who are fully authorised and regulated by the FCA (firm reference number 663617) full details of which can be found on the FCA website www.fca.org.uk. For an instant online quotation please click here.
A UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) gives you the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in the European Union (EU).
UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs) are still valid and offer the same cover as GHICs in the EU.
Once your EHIC has expired, you’ll be able to replace it with a GHIC.
NB – A GHIC/EHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance!.
The latest FCO travel guidance for Portugal
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal
10 fellow guests have already booked this trip — most come solo.
Weather in Lisbon in April
April is a wonderful time to visit Lisbon, with mild spring weather, plenty of sunshine and comfortably warm temperatures. Daytime highs typically reach around 20°C, while evenings are cooler and fresh. You can also expect around eight hours of sunshine each day, with the occasional chance of a light rain shower.
Your money is ATOL-protected under licence 9046 — if anything happens to the operator, you get your holiday or your money back.
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