The next day, after a sound breakfast, which was interesting as the hotel was just opening up from lock-down, I caught the train to Lisbon, via first class (which was quite reasonable – only about £45 for a return).
Breakfast
After a short walk through Faro to the station, I noted that it seemed quiet, but that there appears to be some renovating and modernising going on about here.
Faro shots
After this, I arrived at the station, where I was very pleasantly surprised by the state and style of the train.
First Class section of Portuguese trains
The station was clean and though at first, I thought I would be the only one there, it filled up quite quickly, with many tourists from North America.
Station shots
With my carriage having one of those “old fashioned” type of doors, which I personally, find reassuring.
Old?
We got in to Lisbon Oriente, with it’s stunning ceiling, that looks better at night, if truth be told.
Lisbon station Roof
After disembarking from the train, and leaving the station, I decided to go for a long walk (about 2 hours) along the east side of the city, that included the Marvila section, to arrive at my hotel (via the underground).
The first part was severely modern, though like most major cities nowadays, has rental bikes.
Marvila area and bikes
The next part, appeared to be under renewal, and can only be a positive thing for the city.
Marvila renovations
Finally, after I reached a point just north of the Alfama Old Town section, I got on the very modern underground, to go to my hotel that was only a few stops north.
After I arrived at my room, a very utilitarian one at that, I was starving, so I
went around the corner, and was pleasantly surprised to find a curry house! I must say, it was lovely and had food that was served slightly differently than the places I’ve been to in the UK.
Curry with an attention to detail
CB
Curious Bystander 