Lisbon — Co-Working at a Portuguese Library

What took me back to Portugal wasn’t pastel de nata, the unique architecture or another cross-country hike — it was work! The company I worked for at the time (which was completely remote) and part of a team I used to work with in South Korea had organized a week of training in the Portuguese capital, so timing wise — the stars aligned perfectly for me!

I was excited for the trip, but when my boss informed me that we’d all be staying in a hotel 20km away from the city, I chose to book myself into a hostel in the centre and only travel for business when completely necessary. This trip was not my first time in Portugal, but it was my first time in Lisbon, and I wanted to make the most out of it! The stubborn traveller inside kept telling myself that “if you’re travelling all the way there, you’re going to do more than just look at spreadsheets”. It was nothing personal against my colleagues, but I knew from experience how isolated and uncultured these types of conferences can be in large hotels miles away from everything.

To be fair, meeting my colleagues for the first time, and reuniting with friends I hadn’t seen it years was nothing short of incredible (the highlight of the trip!), but I can be stubborn at times, and I wanted city centre hostel life, no matter how ungrateful or anti-social it made me seem.

I made the right decision! My trip to Lisbon was a perfect blend of scouting the city solo — checking out the best coffee shops, sightseeing and exploring places of interest, and getting to know my colleagues and enjoying their company over good food and drinks. We even got to do some co-working at a local Portuguese library, which was a cool unforgettable experience and something that I wouldn’t have done by myself.

Lisbon itself is a pretty incredible city! The vibrant capital of Portugal enchants visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere. Nestled along the Tagus River, this coastal city boasts a blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. Cobblestone streets wind through colorful neighborhoods adorned with pastel buildings adorned with intricate azulejos, traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles. The iconic São Jorge Castle stands sentinel atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the cityscape below.

Lisbon’s cultural scene thrives in its numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, showcasing a dynamic blend of Portuguese heritage and contemporary art. The districts of Baixa and Chiado buzz with activity, filled with quaint cafes, bustling markets, and boutique shops. As night falls, the city comes alive with the sounds of Fado music drifting from intimate tavernas, where locals and tourists alike gather to savor authentic Portuguese cuisine and fine wines.

The iconic yellow trams that you see on travel brochures and fridge magnets are a symbol of the city’s charm and character.

If you’re visiting Lisbon, stretch your legs! Known for its hilly terrain, many of the streets are steep and winding. It all adds to the landscape and personality of the city, but for those not used to walking much on their trips — be aware!