My husband and I will be arriving in Lisbon Monday morning Sept 4th staying 4 nights. We have an apartment located just a few blocks NE of Rossio and won't know if the apartment is ready for an early arrival, but the host has agreed to keep our bags if the unit is not ready for us, (so bags are not an issue). We do like to keep moving on our first day in Europe. Even though we may not have gotten much/any sleep, we feel better if we stay out in the sunshine and make the most of the day with an earlier bedtime if needed.
Our request of you seasoned travelers to Lisbon: could you recommend an "easy" itinerary for that first day that would still give us an authentic feel? Take Rick's walking tour, explore a particular area that is less strenuous walking, just wander ... or find a good vinho verde and drink the day away (haha!)??
We enjoy simpler pleasures...being near the river, wonderful views, local current art as well as museums, interacting with locals (this is actually an exploratory trip for possible retirement in Portugal)...and discovering local foods. We will also spend 5 days in Cascais and want to include a day trip to Lisbon just to get a feel for the convenience/value of residing outside the city. So suggestions for that day would also be appreciated.
We know we will "stumble upon" some of our most memorable moments, but it is a great pleasure to hear your comments when it comes to your own special moments/places.
Thanks for your time in reading/responding. You are greatly appreciated.