How To Unlock Magical Travel Moments: 5 Things I Did In Lisbon

There’s something inexplicably beautiful about exploring a city during the early hours of the morning. As the first rays of sunlight peek over the horizon, streets that are usually teeming with activity become a blank canvas waiting to be awakened.

Knowing I would experience some jet lag regardless of how early or late I woke up, I purposely set my alarm earlier than most, in hopes of experiencing a few magical mornings in Lisbon. And luckily, the Portuguese capital did not disappoint.

The morning air was crisp and fresh, igniting my senses and stirring my taste for adventure. With every step, I became an explorer, discovering the untold stories residing in the city’s uncluttered passages and hidden corners.

Iconic landmarks, like Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, seemed to whisper their own secrets of Lisbon’s past and their promises for the future to come.

Those early mornings, draped in their hushed tranquility, quickly became my personal sanctuary in Portugal, allowing me a glimpse into Lisbon’s raw and unfiltered charm.

When it comes traveling, I always make sure to leave plenty of extra time for unexpected stops and detours. And, more importantly, I allow myself the luxury of dreamily perusing shops, wine bars and hidden corners other spots I might not normally have the funds or time for.

This doesn’t mean I prioritize shopping over my travel budget or disregard any prior commitments I have, but rather I allow myself to be more open to the fun foods, uniques experiences and memorable souvenirs I might find along the way.

During my last few days in Lisbon, I experienced a magical travel moment doing exactly that. While Ubering to a dinner reservation across town, I began chatting with my driver, an older Portuguese man who I quickly learned had two daughters living in California. After hearing that I wouldn’t be in Lisbon for much longer, he asked if I could spare a minute more so he could share his favorite miradouro, or viewpoint in the city. We were only two blocks away after all. Normally, if I were at home, I might’ve turned this offer down because of the time, but feeling both safe and curious, I decided to give into the adventure.

Traveling solo is one of the easiest ways to become adept at talking to and forming meaningful connections with new people. Whether it’s striking up a chat with fellow travelers on a train or seeking recommendations from locals at a cafe, solo travel forces you to overcome social awkwardness and meet others.

Over time, that’s certainly been the case for me and now, it’s something I actively seek out on my trips. While scoping out Lisbon’s natural wine scene, I stumbled upon La Di Da Di Wines. And it just so happened that the day I visited was also the last day the wine bar would be open so they were having a closing block party.

It was an interesting turn of events so I decided to roll with it and stay for the wine and music. For the first half hour or so, I chatted with a few polite groups – all locals and/or friends of the owners. The crowd was having fun, but because the party was geared toward the bar’s regulars, most attendees were closed off to new conversations.