LISBON, PORTUGAL – A CITY OF HILLS, TILES AND SARDINES
Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal, located on the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe, dating back to pre-Roman times, and has a rich history and culture.
Some notable attractions in Lisbon include the historic district of Alfama, the iconic Belem Tower, the Jeronimos Monastery, the Castle of Sao Jorge, and the National Museum of Ancient Art. Other popular destinations include the colorful neighborhood of Bairro Alto, the modern Parque das Nações, and the scenic viewpoints of Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
Lisbon is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, restaurants, and clubs located in the Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodre neighborhoods. The city is famous for its seafood and wine, particularly its port and Madeira wines.
In addition to its cultural and culinary offerings, Lisbon is a major economic and business center, with a thriving technology industry and a growing startup scene. The city is also a popular destination for tourists, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Things to Do
There are many things to do in Lisbon, Portugal. Here are some popular activities and attractions:
- Explore the historic district of Alfama: This picturesque neighborhood is known for its winding streets, colorful buildings, and traditional Fado music.
- Visit the Belem Tower: This iconic tower was built in the 16th century to defend the city’s harbor and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Discover the Jeronimos Monastery: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning monastery was built in the 16th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Take a ride on Tram 28: This vintage tram takes you through some of Lisbon’s most charming neighborhoods, including Alfama and Bairro Alto.
- Enjoy the views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia: This scenic viewpoint offers stunning views of the city and the Tagus River.
- Visit the National Museum of Ancient Art: This museum houses one of the most important collections of art in Portugal, including works by Portuguese masters and international artists.
- Try Portuguese cuisine: Lisbon is known for its delicious seafood, pastries, and wines, so be sure to sample some of the local specialties.
- Relax at the beach: Lisbon has several beautiful beaches within easy reach of the city, including Cascais and Estoril.
- Visit the Lisbon Oceanarium: This impressive aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
- Explore the street art scene: Lisbon is home to many talented street artists, and you can find colorful murals and installations throughout the city.
Must See Places in and Around Lisbon
There are many must-see places in and around Lisbon, Portugal. Here are some popular attractions and destinations:
- Belem Tower: This iconic tower, located on the Tagus River, is a symbol of Portugal’s maritime history and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Jeronimos Monastery: This stunning monastery, also located in Belem, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and features beautiful Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
- Alfama: This historic district is the oldest in Lisbon and is known for its narrow streets, traditional Fado music, and stunning views of the city.
- Castle of Sao Jorge: This medieval castle, located on a hilltop overlooking the city, offers panoramic views of Lisbon and is a great place to learn about the city’s history.
- Sintra: This charming town, located about 30 minutes from Lisbon, is home to several stunning palaces and castles, including the colorful Pena Palace.
- Cascais: This coastal town, located about 30 minutes from Lisbon, is known for its beautiful beaches, charming streets, and historic fortresses.
- Cabo da Roca: This scenic spot, located about an hour from Lisbon, is the westernmost point in continental Europe and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Cascais-Estoril coastline: This stretch of coastline between Lisbon and Cascais is home to several beautiful beaches, including Guincho, Praia do Tamariz, and Praia da Parede.
- Lisbon Oceanarium: This impressive aquarium, located in the Parque das Nacoes neighborhood, is one of the largest in Europe and is home to a wide variety of marine life.
- Sintra-Cascais Natural Park: This beautiful park, located just outside of Lisbon, is home to stunning natural landscapes, including forests, cliffs, and beaches, and is a great place to hike or cycle.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lisbon is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures, lower humidity, and less rain than the winter months.
In the spring, the city is blooming with flowers and the days are getting longer, making it a great time to explore Lisbon’s many outdoor attractions, such as the beaches, parks, and gardens. In the fall, the weather is still mild and there are fewer tourists, making it a good time to visit without the crowds.
Summer (June to August) can be very hot and crowded, with many tourists flocking to the city to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.
Winter (December to February) is the low season in Lisbon, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures. While the city can be rainy and windy during this time, it can also be a good time to experience Lisbon’s indoor attractions, such as museums, galleries, and historic buildings. Additionally, the holiday season can be a festive time in Lisbon, with Christmas markets and other holiday events.
Customs and Traditions
Portugal, including Lisbon, has its own set of customs and traditions that visitors should be aware of. Here are some of the customs and traditions you may encounter:
- Greetings: When greeting someone in Portugal, it’s common to shake hands and/or kiss on both cheeks, starting with the right cheek. This is known as “dar dois beijinhos” (giving two little kisses) and is a common custom between friends and family.
- Food and drink: Portugal has a rich culinary tradition, and some of the local specialties you may encounter include seafood dishes, pastries, and wine. When dining out, it’s common to share dishes family-style.
- Fado music: Fado is a traditional Portuguese music style that is often sung in restaurants and bars. It’s characterized by its melancholy lyrics and soulful melodies.
- Festivals: Portugal has a rich calendar of festivals throughout the year, with some of the most popular being the Lisbon Festivities in June, the Festival of Saint Anthony, and the Festa dos Tabuleiros in Tomar.
- Dress code: Lisbon is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but it’s still important to dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites or more conservative neighborhoods. In general, casual, comfortable clothing is appropriate for most occasions, but more formal attire may be required for certain events or venues.
- Siesta: In some parts of Portugal, including Lisbon, it’s common for businesses to close for a few hours in the afternoon for a siesta, or nap. However, this custom is becoming less common in urban areas.
