Steal My Wellness Day in Lisbon

Lisbon will always hold a special place in my heart because it was the destination of my very first solo trip. Before I left, I set an intention: to slow down, listen to my body, and move through each day at my own pace—something I rarely get to do when traveling with others. Not because I don’t want to, but because it’s hard to match someone else’s rhythm without losing a bit of your own.

One night, as I lay in my hostel bed planning the next day, I realized that all my tentative plans—hiking, day trips to nearby cities— in that moment felt more like obligations than adventures. I didn’t want to force anything. Then it hit me: why not dedicate a day to wellness?

What followed was the perfect mix of relaxation, movement, nourishing food, and cultural connection. If you ever find yourself in this beautiful city and crave a slower, more intentional experience, here’s my Lisbon wellness day itinerary for inspiration.

Photo: Dear Breakfast, Lisbon

First Stop: Breakfast at Dear Breakfast

A perfect travel day starts with a great breakfast, and mine began with a walk to one of my favorite Lisbon spots: Dear Breakfast. This cozy café has a menu packed with options for everyone, including plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian choices. From hearty egg dishes and fresh salads to fluffy pancakes and indulgent sweets, there’s something for every craving.

Their drink menu doesn’t disappoint either—whether you’re in the mood for a specialty coffee, a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage, or even a morning cocktail, they’ve got you covered.

Pro tip for my non–gluten-free friends: Order the Double-Baked Pistachio Croissant. You can thank me later.

Second Stop: Water Therapy at THE SPA by Corinthia

After my dream breakfast, I hopped in a Bolt (Europe’s version of Uber) and headed to THE SPA at Corinthia Hotel—a serene oasis in the heart of Lisbon. This luxury spa offers everything from massages and facials to red light therapy and even a kids’ spa. But I wasn’t here for any of that. I came for their Water Therapy Circuit.

Inspired by Asian wellness philosophies, the Water Therapy Circuit is a 1–2 hour experience designed to help you slow down, release tension, and reconnect with your body. It includes:

• Sensory showers

• Dynamic pool & Jacuzzi

• Sauna & steam room

• Cold plunge & ice fountain

• Bucket shower

• Cooling walk

You’re free to move through the circuit in any order, which makes it the perfect space to simply listen to your body and flow. I alternated between warm and cold experiences, then sipped cucumber water while lounging on plush chairs, letting the stillness sink in.

Pro tip: Don’t skip the bucket shower—it was my absolute favorite!

Photo: Rice Me Deli, Lisbon

Third Stop: A Sweet Pause at Rice Me Deli

With my body feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, I took a leisurely 25-minute walk to one of my Lisbon bucket-list spots: Rice Me Deli. As someone who eats gluten-free, I can usually find decent options when traveling—but discovering a place that’s 100% gluten-free? That’s an automatic must-visit.

Rice Me Deli goes above and beyond, offering gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegan options, making it a haven for anyone with dietary restrictions.

Since I was still pretty full from breakfast, I kept it simple and ordered an iced vanilla latte with rice milk and, of course, a gluten-free pastel de nata. It was the perfect midday pick-me-up while I took a moment to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere before heading to my next stop.

Pro tip: If you can, go hungry. The entire menu looked incredible, and I was honestly bummed I couldn’t try more dishes!

Fourth Stop: Deep Relaxation at Ancient Herbal Spa

If there’s one thing you can count on when I travel, it’s that I’ll find time for a massage. So naturally, on my Wellness Day, I booked one—and wow, did I choose well. I went to Ancient Herbal Spa for a 90-minute Ayurvedic massage, and I truly don’t have the words to describe how blissful it was. Let’s just say I walked out feeling so deeply relaxed that I was on the verge of tears (the good kind).

Pro tip: They only accept cash, so be prepared—or you might end up taking a little stroll to the ATM like I did.

Fifth Stop: A Slow Stroll and a Reset

After my massage, I opted for a 45-minute walk back to my hostel. This was intentional—a way to gently move my body after so much stillness and to soak in a different side of Lisbon at a slower pace. There’s something magical about wandering through the city without a strict agenda, just taking in the sights, sounds, and rhythm of the streets.

Once I made it back, I gave myself permission to fully reset with a one-hour nap before heading into the evening. Sometimes the simplest things—like rest—are the most restorative.

Sixth Stop: Movement Through Dance

To kick off the evening, I added something to my Wellness Day that truly lights me up: a dance class. While this might not be everyone’s go-to, I encourage you to find an alternative activity that brings you joy—whether that’s yoga, Pilates, or something creative.

I headed to UDance, just a 15-minute walk from my hostel. This studio offers a wide range of adult classes, so if you’re looking for a fun way to move your body while in Lisbon, definitely check out their schedule.

Seventh Stop: A Satisfying Finish at Confraria

To wrap up my Wellness Day, I treated myself to a delicious dinner at Confraria. I love seeking out seafood and sushi spots when I travel—they’re usually a safe bet for my dietary needs, and they never disappoint.

This meal was the perfect way to end the day: nourishing, flavorful, and a little indulgent. After a day of slowing down, caring for my body, and moving with intention, this felt like the ideal final touch to my Lisbon wellness experience.

Final Thoughts

There are countless ways to design your own wellness day in Lisbon, but this was the path I chose—and it was exactly what I needed. By the end of the day, I felt deeply cared for, like I had given my body the kindness it deserves so it could give that energy right back to me. Through intentional food choices, mindful movement, and pure relaxation, this day completely elevated the rest of my solo trip experience.

Would you try a wellness day in Lisbon? Which stop would make it onto your itinerary? I’d love to hear in the comments!