Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, is known for its bright yellow trams that carry passengers around the city. It is the westernmost capital of the continent and the sunniest in terms of climate. The city rose to glory in the Middle Ages, fuelled by exploration. In addition to its historical attractions, the city offers the opportunity to spend a beach holiday on the nearby sandy beaches.
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For a taste of history, visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Monastery of Jerome, built to commemorate the discovery of Vasco da Cama’s sea route to India. His tomb is also located there. The longest bridge in Europe, 17 km long, crossing the Tagus River, is also named in memory of this explorer. The Tower of Belem was also built in memory of Vasco da Cama in the early 1500s. The architecture is influenced by Islamic architecture. It has been used over the years as a customs station, a lighthouse and a prison.
Crossing the Tagus River is an experience of a lifetime and on the other side of it lies one of the most famous places to visit; the Christo Rei monument, which mimics the statue of Christ in Rio de Janeiro. That monument can be seen from all over the city. Visitors can admire the spectacular scenery from its 80-metre-high observation deck. The statue can also be reached by ferry.
The city’s central square – the Rossio – is the hub of activity both day and night. It has been so since the Middle Ages. The square is a busy public transport hub, with all forms of public transport in and around the square. The square has fountains and a statue of Pedro IV, Emperor of Brazil and King of Portugal, in the centre. While you’re exploring the city, you can sit down in one of the cafés around the square for a cup of coffee and the famous Portuguese vanilla pastry, Pastel de Nata.
Stories about Lisbon always feature the colourful bright yellow old trams, and getting on one gives you a great insight into the city. On board you can explore both the old town and Bairro Alto, once known as the working class district. The houses of Bairro Alto date back to the 1500s and 1600s. Today, the district is also known for its bars. As are the Fado bars in Alfamar for music lovers. During the day, you can visit the Sao Jorge Castle, located on the highest hill of Alfamar. The castle was once used by the military.
If you are staying in Lisbon for several days or longer, you should also explore the nearby attractions. Less than an hour’s drive away is the city of Sintra, known for its natural beauty and architecture. Estoril, in the province of Cascais, is just under half an hour away. This destination became famous above all as a venue for F1 races, although the city’s circuit is no longer used for Formula 1 races. Today, the destination is known for its luxury hotels, beach and casino.
In Mediterranean style, the evening is spent later, first with dinner, and then the city offers plenty of opportunities for nightlife. Before the nightlife, it’s a good idea to have a good meal, and Lisbon is the place to do it. In particular, fish and seafood are an important part of the country’s cuisine. The city offers a wide range of restaurants, from popular cafés to fine dining.
After dinner, head to the bars and cafés of Bairro Alto, where there’s plenty to choose from. After the bars close, head for the harbour area and its nightclubs. One evening at least is worth spending in a traditional Fado restaurant, listening to melancholic folk music.
Lisbon is known as one of the most affordable capitals in Europe and is well worth taking advantage of when on holiday in the city. Here you’ll find both European chain stores and local boutiques. In and around Lisbon there are large shopping centres as well as a few larger shopping streets such as; Rua do Carmo and Rua Garrett. Luxury brand stores can be found on the Avenida de Liberdade. The shoe industry competes with the Italian shoe industry for the title of European shoe country. Portuguese souvenirs include local handicrafts, cork products, wines and local foods and spices.
Airlines: many airlines fly to Lisssbon
Airport: Portela
Flight time: approx. 4 hours 40 minutes
Distance from the airport: approx. 6 km
Language: portuguese
Time difference: -2
Population: just under 3 million
Passport: you must carry a passport valid for the duration of the trip or an identity card issued after 1.3.1999.
Currency: euro
Tip: It is common to give around 10 – 20% of the invoice amount
Water: bottled water recommended
Electricity: voltage 220 – 230 V. Generally sockets similar to those in Finland
Lisbon has something for everyone; whether you’re interested in history, architecture, art, food or sightseeing in general.
1. Buy a day ticket for the tram and tour the city on the famous tram line 28, making stops at your leisure and exploring the area around the stops on foot. There are routes and lines to choose from, depending on your preferences.
2. Explorers and navigators are an integral part of Portugal’s history. In Lisbon you can spend a day exploring the monuments and sites built in their honour. Lisbon’s Maritime History Museum is one of the city’s most popular attractions. This museum, located in the Hieronymos monastery wing, houses around 17,000 objects, some of which date back to the Middle Ages and were part of maritime activities.
3. One day could be an excursion to the beautiful city of Sintra, known for its beautiful castles and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Back in the 1800s, Lord Byron wrote to a friend that Sintra was the most beautiful city in the world. The gardens of Pena Palace, built on top of the mountain, are home to up to 2,000 different species of plants.
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