Michael Portillo's Lisbon

Michael spends a weekend in Lisbon, the Portuguese capital. He begins his short stay by hopping aboard one of the city's iconic trams, which winds its way through the narrow, medieval lanes that snake through the old town. The ride carries him straight into Alfama, the historic quarter famed for its labyrinthine streets and traditional ambience. As the tram rattles along, it climbs the steep hills and flashes past colourful tiled façades, giving him an instant feel for Lisbon's character. The gentle clatter of the carriage and the sight of these aged streets provide a compact introduction to the city's layered past, setting the tone for his weekend.

Michael spends a weekend in Lisbon, the Portuguese capital. He begins his short stay by hopping aboard one of the city's iconic trams, which winds its way through the narrow, medieval lanes that snake through the old town. The ride carries him straight into Alfama, the historic quarter famed for its labyrinthine streets and traditional ambience. As the tram rattles along, it climbs the steep hills and flashes past colourful tiled façades, giving him an instant feel for Lisbon's character. The gentle clatter of the carriage and the sight of these aged streets provide a compact introduction to the city's layered past, setting the tone for his weekend.

Michael presses on with his Lisbon adventures, wandering the historic streets and soaking up the local atmosphere. He continues to seek out distinctive experiences that showcase the city’s rich cultural tapestry, moving from one landmark to the next as his journey unfolds. Every alley and plaza adds another layer to his experience. One highlight of his trip takes him to a decorative ceramic factory that has been in operation for 280 years. Inside the venerable workshop, he designs his own tile, applying the unmistakably unique Portillo style that sets his creation apart from the traditional pieces surrounding it. The process lets him blend personal flair with centuries‑old craftsmanship.

Michael presses on with his Lisbon adventures, wandering the historic streets and soaking up the local atmosphere. He continues to seek out distinctive experiences that showcase the city’s rich cultural tapestry, moving from one landmark to the next as his journey unfolds. Every alley and plaza adds another layer to his experience. One highlight of his trip takes him to a decorative ceramic factory that has been in operation for 280 years. Inside the venerable workshop, he designs his own tile, applying the unmistakably unique Portillo style that sets his creation apart from the traditional pieces surrounding it. The process lets him blend personal flair with centuries‑old craftsmanship.

In the closing moments of his Lisbon stay, Michael makes his way to the piri‑piri eatery that has taken the web by storm, eager to sample the famed spicy dish that’s been driving online chatter. After indulging in the restaurant’s buzz‑worthy fare, he heads to the historic Jerónimos Monastery, where the imposing statue of Christ captures his full attention. The sight of the solemn figure leaves him utterly mesmerised, providing a striking contrast to the lively culinary adventure he’s just enjoyed. Both experiences bookend his visit, highlighting the city’s blend of contemporary hype and timeless heritage.

In the closing moments of his Lisbon stay, Michael makes his way to the piri‑piri eatery that has taken the web by storm, eager to sample the famed spicy dish that’s been driving online chatter. After indulging in the restaurant’s buzz‑worthy fare, he heads to the historic Jerónimos Monastery, where the imposing statue of Christ captures his full attention. The sight of the solemn figure leaves him utterly mesmerised, providing a striking contrast to the lively culinary adventure he’s just enjoyed. Both experiences bookend his visit, highlighting the city’s blend of contemporary hype and timeless heritage.