Nestled on the banks of the Tagus River, Lisbon is a vibrant and colourful city that has become a popular travel destination in recent years. With its stunning architecture, rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm climate, Lisbon has something to offer everyone. Here are 5 reasons why you should add Lisbon to your travel bucket list.
Stunning Architecture and Landmarks
Lisbon is a city of contrasts, with historic buildings and modern structures coexisting side by side. From the intricate details of the Belem Tower to the Gothic grandeur of the Jeronimos Monastery, Lisbon’s architectural wonders are sure to leave you breathless. Don’t miss out on visiting the Sao Jorge Castle, the Alfama neighbourhood, or the famous Santa Justa Lift for stunning views of the city.
Delicious Cuisine
Lisbon is a food lover’s paradise. Portugal’s culinary scene is famous for its seafood dishes, including grilled sardines, octopus, and bacalhau (codfish). You’ll also want to try the city’s traditional sweet treats, such as Pastel de Nata, a custard tart with a crispy crust that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Rich History and Culture
Lisbon is a city steeped in history and culture. The city was founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC and has since been home to the Romans, Moors, and Portuguese. You can learn about Lisbon’s fascinating past by visiting the National Museum of Ancient Art or the National Tile Museum. For a taste of Lisbon’s contemporary culture, check out the MAAT museum or the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum.
Warm Climate
Lisbon enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers. This makes it the perfect destination for year-round travel. The city is particularly pleasant in the spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and the crowds are smaller.
Friendly People
Portuguese people are known for their warmth and hospitality, and the people of Lisbon are no exception. You’ll find that locals are friendly and welcoming, and they’ll be happy to offer recommendations on the best places to eat, drink, and explore.
In conclusion, Lisbon is a city that should be on every traveller’s bucket list. With its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, rich history, warm climate, and friendly people, it’s no wonder that Lisbon has become one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Lisbon today!
3 days in Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a beautiful and vibrant city with a rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and a warm and friendly culture. If you’re planning to spend three days in Lisbon, here’s a suggested itinerary that will allow you to explore the city’s top attractions and get a taste of what Lisbon has to offer.
Day 1: Explore the Historic Districts
Start your day by exploring the historic districts of Lisbon. Begin at the Praça do Comércio, a beautiful square that faces the Tagus River. From there, head to the Alfama neighbourhood, one of Lisbon’s oldest and most charming districts. Stroll through its narrow streets, admire the beautiful tile-covered buildings, and take in the stunning views from the Miradouro das Portas do Sol.
After lunch, head to the Belém district, home to several of Lisbon’s top attractions, including the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém. These two monuments are UNESCO World Heritage sites and are must-sees for anyone visiting Lisbon.
In the evening, head to the Bairro Alto neighbourhood, where you’ll find some of Lisbon’s best restaurants and bars. Enjoy a delicious meal and a glass of wine while soaking up the lively atmosphere of this bohemian district.
Day 2: Discover Lisbon’s Culture and Art Scene
Start your day with a visit to the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, one of the best art museums in Europe. The museum’s collection includes works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, and Renoir, as well as a vast collection of ancient and contemporary art.
After lunch, head to the trendy neighbourhood of Chiado, where you’ll find some of Lisbon’s most stylish shops, cafes, and galleries. Be sure to check out the famous Café A Brasileira, a historic café that was frequented by writers and intellectuals in the early 20th century.
In the evening, head to the LX Factory, a creative hub that has been transformed from an old industrial site into a cultural centre. Here you’ll find trendy restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as street art and other creative displays.
Day 3: Relax and Enjoy Lisbon’s Charm
On your last day in Lisbon, take some time to relax and soak up the city’s charm. Start your day with a walk along the Tagus River, taking in the beautiful views of the city and the water. Then head to the Estrela neighbourhood, where you’ll find the beautiful Estrela Basilica and the Jardim da Estrela, a beautiful park where you can relax and enjoy the sunshine.
In the afternoon, head to the Ribeira das Naus, a beautiful promenade that runs along the river. Here you can enjoy a drink or a snack while watching the boats go by.
In the evening, head to the Graca neighbourhood, where you’ll find some of Lisbon’s best rooftop bars. Enjoy a cocktail while taking in the stunning views of the city and reflecting on your unforgettable three days in Lisbon.
Getting to and around Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a popular travel destination that is easy to reach and get around. Here’s a guide to getting to and around Lisbon:
Getting to Lisbon
By Air: Lisbon is served by the Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), which is located just 7 kilometres from the city centre. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Lisbon from all over the world, making it a convenient destination for international travellers.
By Train: Lisbon has excellent rail connections to other parts of Portugal and Europe. The city’s main train station, Santa Apolónia, is located in the Alfama neighbourhood and offers services to many destinations across Portugal.
By Bus: Lisbon is also well-connected by bus to other parts of Portugal and Europe. The city’s main bus station, Sete Rios, is located in the northwest of the city and offers services to many destinations across Portugal and Spain.
Getting Around Lisbon
By Metro: Lisbon has an efficient and affordable metro system that serves many parts of the city. There are four metro lines that cover the city, and trains run from 6:30am to 1am daily.
By Tram: Lisbon’s historic trams are a popular way to get around the city and offer a unique and charming experience. Trams run on several routes through the city, including the famous Tram 28 that takes passengers through some of Lisbon’s most beautiful neighbourhoods.
By Bus: Lisbon has an extensive bus network that covers the entire city. Buses run from early morning until late at night, and many routes offer a convenient and affordable way to get around.
By Taxi or Uber: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Lisbon and are a convenient option for getting around the city.
By Foot: Finally, Lisbon is a great city to explore on foot, especially in the historic districts where narrow streets and charming alleys abound. Walking is a great way to discover hidden gems and soak up the city’s unique charm.
In conclusion, getting to and around Lisbon is easy and convenient. Whether you choose to travel by plane, train, or bus, or get around by metro, tram, bus, taxi, or on foot, you’ll find that Lisbon is a welcoming and accessible city that is easy to navigate and explore.
Where to stay in Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a beautiful and vibrant city with many different neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Here’s a guide to some of the best areas to stay in Lisbon:
The Baixa neighbourhood is Lisbon’s downtown area and is a great place to stay if you want to be close to the city’s main attractions. Here you’ll find beautiful squares, historic buildings, and plenty of shops and restaurants. It’s also well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.
Located between the Baixa and Bairro Alto neighbourhoods, Chiado is a trendy and upscale area that is popular with both locals and tourists. Here you’ll find stylish shops, cafes, and galleries, as well as beautiful architecture and stunning views of the city.
Known for its lively nightlife, the Bairro Alto neighbourhood is a great place to stay if you want to experience Lisbon’s vibrant bar scene. During the day, the area is quiet and charming, with narrow streets and beautiful buildings.
Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood, Alfama is a charming area of narrow streets, beautiful architecture, and stunning views of the Tagus River. It’s a great place to stay if you want to experience the city’s history and culture.
Located west of the city centre, Belem is a tranquil and beautiful neighbourhood that is home to several of Lisbon’s top attractions, including the Jeronimos Monastery and the Tower of Belem. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to these monuments and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.
This neighbourhood is known for its beautiful park, the Jardim da Estrela, as well as its stunning architecture and quiet streets. It’s a great place to stay if you want to experience Lisbon’s more residential side.
What and where to eat in Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a food lover’s paradise. With its rich culinary traditions, fresh seafood, and delicious sweets, there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to try. Here’s a guide to some of the best foods to try and where to eat them in Lisbon:
Seafood
Lisbon is famous for its seafood, which is caught fresh from the Atlantic Ocean. Some of the must-try dishes include grilled sardines, octopus, and bacalhau (salted codfish). You can find these dishes at many seafood restaurants throughout the city, including Cervejaria Ramiro, Sea Me, and Marisqueira Azul.
Pastel de Nata
No trip to Lisbon is complete without trying the city’s most famous pastry, the Pastel de Nata. This custard tart with a crispy crust is a true delight, and you can find it at many bakeries throughout the city, including the famous Pasteis de Belem and Manteigaria.
Cozido
Cozido is a hearty meat and vegetable stew that is a traditional dish in Portugal. It’s made with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, and chicken, as well as vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and potatoes. You can try this dish at many traditional Portuguese restaurants, including Restaurante Cozido à Portuguesa and Solar dos Presuntos.
Grilled Meat
Lisbon is also known for its delicious grilled meats, including pork, beef, and chicken. You can find these dishes at many traditional Portuguese restaurants, including Adega da Tia Matilde and Casa de Pasto.
Wine
Portugal is famous for its wine, and Lisbon is no exception. You can try many different varieties of Portuguese wine at wine bars throughout the city, including By The Wine and BA Wine Bar do Bairro Alto.
Coworking Spaces in Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a vibrant and creative hub that has become a popular destination for digital nomads and remote workers. Here are some of the best coworking spaces in Lisbon:
- Second Home Lisbon: Located in the trendy Mercado da Ribeira neighbourhood, Second Home Lisbon is a beautiful coworking space that offers flexible workspaces, meeting rooms, and event spaces. It’s a great place to work and network with other entrepreneurs and creatives.
- Cowork Central: Cowork Central is a popular coworking space located in the heart of Lisbon’s historic Baixa neighbourhood. It offers flexible workspaces, meeting rooms, and a friendly and welcoming community of entrepreneurs and freelancers.
- Heden Lisbon: Heden Lisbon is a modern and stylish coworking space located in the trendy Santos neighbourhood. It offers a variety of workspaces, including private offices, shared desks, and meeting rooms, as well as a beautiful rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
- LACS Conde d’Óbidos: LACS Conde d’Óbidos is a creative coworking space located in a former industrial building in the Alcântara neighbourhood. It offers a range of workspaces, including private offices, coworking desks, and event spaces, as well as a rooftop terrace and a café.
- Village Underground Lisbon: Village Underground Lisbon is a unique and creative coworking space located in a former warehouse in the Alcântara neighbourhood. It features a variety of workspaces, including coworking desks, private offices, and event spaces, as well as a café, a restaurant, and a cultural centre.
In conclusion, Lisbon is a great destination for digital nomads and remote workers, with a variety of coworking spaces that offer flexible workspaces, meeting rooms, and a welcoming community of entrepreneurs and creatives. Whether you’re looking for a modern and stylish space in the city center or a unique and creative space in a former industrial building, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your needs in this vibrant and dynamic city.
lisbon’s essential 20 sights
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a beautiful and vibrant city with a rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and a warm and friendly culture. Here are 20 essential sights to see and experiences to have in Lisbon:
- Belém Tower: This beautiful tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see attraction in Lisbon.
- Jerónimos Monastery: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, this beautiful monastery is a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
- Praça do Comércio: This beautiful square faces the Tagus River and is a great place to start exploring the city.
- São Jorge Castle: This historic castle offers stunning views of the city and is a must-see attraction in Lisbon.
- Alfama neighborhood: One of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in Lisbon, with narrow streets and beautiful architecture.
- National Tile Museum: This museum showcases the history and art of Portuguese tiles.
- Calouste Gulbenkian Museum: One of the best art museums in Europe, with a vast collection of ancient and contemporary art.
- Bairro Alto neighborhood: Known for its lively nightlife, this neighborhood is a great place to experience Lisbon’s bar scene.
- LX Factory: A creative hub that has been transformed from an old industrial site into a cultural center.
- Chiado neighborhood: A trendy and upscale area that is popular with both locals and tourists.
- Ribeira das Naus: A beautiful promenade that runs along the river and is a great place to enjoy a drink or a snack.
- Estrela Basilica: A beautiful church that is known for its stunning architecture.
- Jardim da Estrela: A beautiful park that is a great place to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
- Santa Justa Lift: An iconic elevator that offers stunning views of the city.
- Rossio Square: A beautiful square in the heart of the city, with fountains and historic buildings.
- National Museum of Ancient Art: This museum showcases the art and history of Portugal from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
- Carmo Convent: A beautiful convent that was partially destroyed in the 1755 earthquake and is now a fascinating ruin.
- Miradouro das Portas do Sol: A beautiful viewpoint that offers stunning views of the city and the river.
- Casa dos Bicos: A beautiful 16th-century building that is now the headquarters of the José Saramago Foundation.
- Fado Music: No trip to Lisbon is complete without experiencing the soulful and haunting sounds of Fado music, which is a traditional music style of Portugal.
In conclusion, Lisbon is a city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culture. From historic monuments and museums to trendy neighborhoods and cultural hubs, there is no shortage of essential sights and experiences to enjoy in this beautiful and fascinating city.