Transforming a great trip into an unforgettable experience with Rui

Every year for our wedding anniversary, Marco and I escape for a weekend getaway to reconnect and explore a new city. This time, we chose the charm of Lisbon. As we arrived at the airport, our chauffeur Rui greeted us with a warm smile and led us to an immaculate Mercedes S Class. His presence was both professional and discreet, always ready with a polite answer whenever we had a question about his beloved city.

Friday afternoon left us little time to spare, but Rui’s efficient driving ensured we could drop off our luggage at the Bairro Alto Hotel and still visit the Belém Tower, a landmark I had long been curious about. Afterward, following our chauffeur’s excellent recommendation, we enjoyed a delightful dinner at Feitoria restaurant.

Private chauffeur Rui from Lisbon outside his vehicle

Our original plan was to visit Sintra on Saturday and explore Lisbon’s landmarks on Sunday before our flight back to Italy. However, Rui’s local knowledge improved the itinerary. He suggested we swap our plans due to the Lisbon Marathon, which would close major roads in the city centre on Sunday.

Grateful for his foresight, we explored Lisbon on Saturday, without having to endure any road closures. On Sunday, Rui drove us to the fairy-tale town of Sintra. Its beauty left us awestruck, and after what felt like a magical day, we enjoyed a smooth trip back to the airport.

As we bid farewell at the airport, we thanked Rui for turning an already great trip into an unforgettable experience. His thoughtful attention and expertise allowed us to make the most of every moment in Lisbon.

Private chauffeur Rui from Lisbon waiting inside his vehicle

“Ensuring my passengers can make the most of their trip to Lisbon is a pleasure. It is always my goal to help them make their stay truly memorable.”

Explore Lisbon's most exclusive spots, curated by Rui:

Livraria Bertrand

The world’s oldest operating bookstore, established in 1732, offers a vast selection of books and a historic atmosphere. Address: R. Garrett 73-75, 1200-203 Lisbon.

Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga

Portugal’s national art museum, housing a significant collection of European and Portuguese fine art in an ornate 17th-century palace. Address: R. das Janelas Verdes, 1249-017 Lisbon.

Gin Lovers & LESS

A trendy spot combining a gin bar and a restaurant within the beautiful surroundings of the Embaixada concept store in Príncipe Real. Address: Praça do Príncipe Real 26, 1250-184 Lisbon.

Palácio Belmonte

A boutique hotel offering luxurious suites in a historic palace setting with breathtaking city views, located next to the Castelo de São Jorge. Address: Pátio de Dom Fradique 14, 1100-624 Lisbon.

Bairro Alto Hotel

A boutique hotel with chic decor, located in a vibrant neighborhood known for its cultural and nightlife scene. The hotel boasts a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city and Tagus River. Address: Praça Luís de Camões 2, 1200-243 Lisbon.

Viúva Lamego

A traditional ceramics factory and showroom known for its artistic tiles and unique designs, reflecting Lisbon’s cultural heritage. Address: Largo do Intendente Pina Manique 25, 1100-285 Lisbon.

Nobre

Esteemed chef Justa Nobre offers refined Portuguese cuisine focusing on seafood and traditional recipes in a sophisticated atmosphere. Address: Av. Sacadura Cabral 53B, 1000-273 Lisbon.

Fado in Chiado

A cultural show offering a live performance of Fado, Portugal’s soulful traditional music, paired with a historical setting in Chiado. Address: Rua da Misericórdia 14, 1200-273 Lisbon.

Museu da Marioneta

A museum dedicated to the art of puppetry, housing an extensive collection of puppets from around the world, including traditional Portuguese examples. Address: Convento das Bernardas, R. da Esperança 146, 1200-660 Lisbon.

Palácio Belmonte

Offering a blend of historical charm and luxury, this boutique hotel features original artwork, elegant suites, and private terraces overlooking the city. It's nestled beside the Castelo de São Jorge. Address: Pátio de Dom Fradique 14, 1100-624 Lisbon.

Rui recommended hotel: Bairro Alto Hotel

Located in the heart of Lisbon, the Bairro Alto Hotel combines modern comfort with elements of historical significance, capturing the essence of its lively surroundings. This boutique hotel is a prime destination for travellers seeking both luxury and a deep connection to the local culture. Guest rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed to provide an atmosphere of sophisticated comfort, with décor that reflects the artistic and historical character of the area.

The hotel’s on-site restaurant is celebrated for its diverse menu that highlights local cuisine with a creative twist, providing guests with a truly gastronomic experience. Additionally, the rooftop terrace offers stunning views across the Lisbon skyline, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a drink while watching the sunset. Committed to outstanding service, the Bairro Alto Hotel focuses on making every visit to Lisbon a memorable and enriching experience, ensuring that guests receive the highest level of hospitality. Address: Praça Luís de Camões 2, 1200-243 Lisbon, Portugal.

Rui

Lisbon, PT

Rui

8 years
English, Portuguese, Spanish

Rui counts eight years of dedicated service as a chauffeur, ensuring that every journey through the lively streets of Lisbon is both comfortable and memorable. Fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, Rui excels at maintaining high standards of service.

In his role, Rui has developed a profound knowledge of Lisbon, often sharing insights about its warm climate, friendly locals, and vibrant culture. He takes pride in his ability to navigate the city's streets efficiently, offering passengers a glimpse into Lisbon's many attractions and hidden gems.

His ongoing training in evasive and ecological driving, along with annual first aid certifications and his dedication to keeping his vehicle in pristine condition, ensures that he offers safe and responsible travel experiences.

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