The day started with a free breakfast at the hotel, including two cups of coffee. After breakfast I took a three mile subway ride to visit the Gulbenkian Museum of Art. This art museum is considered the best art museum in Portugal. It has a large collection of art from different periods of time and places but only a few pieces from Portugal. While the Gulbenkian Art Museum has a very good collection, there is nothing that makes it special and can be missed if time is an issue. I spent 90 minutes in the museum and decided to get lunch at an upscale Food Court located four miles from the museum and near the water.
Lunch at the Timeout courtyard was a very good grilled cod and veggies along with a half pint of a local lager. This courtyard has food samples from some of the best restaurants in Lisbon. Many good food choices. The courtyard was very crowded and locals were well represented, which is a good sign.
The Monument (above left) has an elevator that will take you to the very top, which is 170 feet and provides amazing views of the harbor. The cost is ten euros (or 8.50 euros if you are 65). There was no line when I showed up. Belem castle can be seen in the distance.
Belem castle was built in 1520 and somehow survived the earthquake of 1755 and the tidal wave that followed.
Casa Pasteis originated the Pastel de Nata in 1837. You can find these custard tarts (best served warm with cinnamon and powdered sugar) all over Lisbon, however it is best to try the original. The bakery was very crowded and I did not want to wait for a table so I bought six to go from the counter and I ate them at Starbucks one block away with a cappuccino. A really good food pairing.
The monastery and church took over one hundred years to construct. It was started in 1495. The church, which is attached, contains the remains of some of Portugal’s finest, including Vasco Da Gama. Vasco Da Gama discovered the route around Africa to sail to India in 1497. The church is free to tour but the monastery costs 10 euros to tour, or 8.50 euros if you are 65.
Looks like you are having fun. Still planning to move there?
I will find a place with a second bedroom so you and Boo will visit.😀