I woke up to a bleak and wet dreary day. Nevertheless, I set out with my trusty pink mac and waterproof shoes. After breakfast I stood pondering on the pavement looking at the slick and shiny cobblestones, realising the only way was up.
I was told yesterday that Tram 28 would take me as close to the castle as possible. Jumping on the tram I asked the young female driver if this was correct, nodding affirmatively she drove off. Heavy on the horn and hard on the breaks she made her way slowly up towards the castle.
Through the windows of the tram
Enjoying the ride and lost in thought I was more than surprised when she announced “everybody off”. I had missed the castle stop completely as places were not announced. I was told I had to make my way over to the other side of the square and start again. I waited in line for 15 minutes with the rain pouring down. With irony, I jumped back on the same tram and with the same driver! I pointedly asked her to tell me this time what stop to alight at.
Finally arriving, I walked up to the castle and started exploring. The rain was getting heavier so I did my best to take quick shots while trying to keep my phone dry.
Rainbow of raincoats
So many peacocks of various colours
Slightly on edge with beady eyes staring at me
There has been a structure on the top of the hill since the 1st Century. Sao Jorge Castle was captured in the 11th Century by King Alfonso. It was converted to a Royal palace and lived in until the 16th century.
Arches and Gateways
The walk around the castle was taking me quite some time. With so many stairs to climb on uneven slippery stones, I was being extra careful!
Windows, doors and other structures
Me and the views!
The views were stunning made more magical with the rooftop tiles glistening from the rain.
Feeling wet and cold it was time for lunch. It’s not hard to find a cozy cafe (“tasca”) in Lisbon and I walked into one just outside the castle. Of course I chose another fish dish.
Watching the world go by
The trip back to town did not go as planned, which seems to be the theme so far for this trip. Hopped on the wrong bus, just hoping for the best not really planning for the worst. I had a long walk back to the apartment, arriving completely soaking wet.
However, The Brother had planned a great evening which made up for it. He took me to a secret bar around 15 minutes walk away. Here we enjoyed a cocktail in the most quirkiest of places.
The place was amazing, with World War I and II toys on showcased in cabinets and on the ceiling.
Who doesn’t like a man in uniform!
Cheers!
The Pink Mac in all it’s glory. Here I am looking like a Tele Tubby, according to The Brother.
Discover more from Travels with Ali
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Even in the rain this place looks beautiful, ps love the red doors!
Thanks for reading and your comments. There’s so much to see in Lisbon without even visiting the historic sites
It’s definitely on my bucket list.
Only a sibling could get away with calling you a Teletubby!
Apparently when he googled the photo it came up with that as well!
A dreary day but you still got some great photos to show off beautiful Lisbon, especially those views from the castle! And the secret bar looks fun 😀
Thanks Sarah, it’s such a photogenic city
Thanks Sarah 😊
Too bad for the rain, and the missed stop, but riding the trams in Lisbon is a tourist highlight on its own! 😊 Maggie
And so cheap too!
Still smiling, Ali, in spite of it all. Ultra careful up there on damp cobbles. I don’t remember spending much time on the castle grounds. I was just focused on the views. But it was a hot day so a world of difference xx
I would imagine you would want to keep in the shade on a hot day up there
A good adventure getting around and eventually ending up in sort of the right place. Pity about the rain and good on you for making the most of it Ali
Thanks Brian ☺️
Oh dear, missing the stop to get off the tram was a bit of a nuisance. At least you didn’t have to walk all the way up that hill. I love your pink raincoat. Did you buy it in Perth?
Thanks so much. Yes I did buy it in Perth. It was such a great buy, completely waterproof and so voluminous so I can wear a winter jumper as well.
It looks really nice. What’s the brand? I might be able to find it in Brisbane or even here.
Beautiful old castle with beautiful views!
Thanks Meg 😊