There are also natural attractions, such as the beaches of Costa de Caparica and city parks like the Parque Florestal de Monsanto. And for getting around, Lisbon offers an efficient public transport system with historic trams, funiculars and a modern metro. In short, Lisbon is a city that fascinates with its history, enchants with its beauty and conquers with its vital energy.
A unique mix of tradition and modernity, to be discovered slowly by walking through its neighborhoods or enjoying the view from its miradouros. Get ready to fall in love with this magical city!
MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Among the main attractions not to be missed in Lisbon are certainly the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline style, houses the tomb of Vasco de Gama and impresses with the richness of its architectural details. The Belém Tower, a symbol of the Age of Discoveries, majestically overlooks the Tagus River.
Another must-see is the Castle of São Jorge, which dominates the city from the top of its hill. Walking along its walls will offer a breathtaking view of Lisbon. Another obligatory stop is the Alfama neighborhood, the oldest in the city, with its steep streets, typical fado venues and the National Pantheon. Also not to be missed is the Praça do Comércio, the large square overlooking the river, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. And to enjoy a spectacular view of the city, go up to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara or the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
HISTORICAL CENTER
The historic center of Lisbon is a fascinating interweaving of neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Starting from Baixa, the area rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, you climb towards Chiado, the elegant shopping district and literary cafes. Here you can find architectural gems like the Elevador de Santa Justa, a neo-Gothic elevator designed by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard.
Climbing further, you reach Bairro Alto, the lively nightlife district with its bars, restaurants and vintage shops. Going down towards the river you reach Cais do Sodré, once a sailors’ port and today a trendy neighborhood with bars and clubs. On the other side of the historic center is Alfama, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon. Here the steep streets wind between colorful houses, mazes of alleys and squares, fado venues and the Castle of São Jorge. Don’t miss the Sé, the city’s Romanesque cathedra
GASTRONOMY
Lisbon’s gastronomy is one of the richest and most varied in Europe. Typical dishes, such as bacalhau (cod), are prepared in many different ways and are a must for every visitor. Another dish to try is cozido à portuguesa, a stew of meat and vegetables that represents traditional Portuguese cuisine.
You cannot leave Lisbon without tasting the famous pastéis de nata, cream pastries found in many bakeries throughout the city, particularly in the historic Pastéis de Belém. Here the recipe is closely guarded, and the flavor is simply irresistible. Food markets, such as Mercado da Ribeira, offer a wide range of fresh products and local specialties. Here you can taste dishes prepared by renowned chefs and discover the authentic flavors of Portugal.
MUSEUMS AND CULTURE
On Best Hotels in Lisbon you find a city rich in culture and history, with numerous museums that tell its evolution over the centuries. The National Museum of Ancient Art houses one of the most important art collections in the country, with works by artists such as Hieronymus Bosch and Albrecht Dürer. The National Tile Museum, dedicated to the famous Portuguese decorative tiles, is another place not to miss.
Here you can discover the history and evolution of this particular type of art. For music lovers, the Fado Museum offers an interesting overview of this musical genre, with exhibitions and live performances. Additionally, throughout the year, Lisbon hosts cultural festivals and events that celebrate music, art, and gastronomy, making the city a lively and dynamic place.
NIGHTLIFE
Lisbon’s nightlife is famous for its vibrancy and variety. Bairro Alto is the hub of nightlife, with a myriad of bars and clubs offering live music and DJ sets. Here you can enjoy a drink while listening to Fado or traditional Portuguese music. Cais do Sodré, once a notorious neighborhood, is now one of the trendiest areas in the city, with fashionable nightclubs and international cuisine restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the famous Mercado da Ribeira, which transforms into a lively meeting point in the evening, with food and drinks from around the world.
EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
With Best Hotels in Lisbon you can book numerous events and festivals throughout the year that celebrate culture, music, and gastronomy. One of the most important festivals is the Santo Antonio Festival, held in June, which celebrates the city’s patron saint with parades, concerts, and fireworks. Another event not to miss is the Fado Festival, which takes place in various locations across the city and features concerts by some of the best performers in this musical genre. During the summer, Lisbon also hosts several music festivals, including NOS Alive and Super Bock Super Rock, which attract internationally renowned artists.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
On Best Hotels in Lisbon you discover many opportunities for outdoor activities. Its hills and Mediterranean climate make the city ideal for walks and hikes. Eduardo VII Park, located in the heart of the city, is a perfect place for a relaxing stroll, with beautiful gardens and views of the city. For those who love the sea, the beaches of Cascais and Estoril, easily reachable by train, offer the chance to practice water sports such as surfing and windsurfing. Additionally, the Tagus River is ideal for boat trips and kayaking.
TRANSPORT
Lisbon has an efficient public transport system, including trams, buses, and a metro. The famous tram 28 is a picturesque way to explore the historic neighborhoods of the city, while the metro is fast and convenient for getting around. For those who prefer to walk, many of the main points of interest are easily reachable on foot in the city center. Additionally, there are numerous taxis and ridesharing services available for those who desire more convenience.
GETTING TO THE CITY
Lisbon is well connected with the rest of Europe and the world thanks to its international airport, Lisbon Portela Airport. Several airlines offer direct flights from many European and international cities. Once you land, you can reach the city center by taxi, bus, or metro. Alternatively, you can reach Lisbon by train from other Portuguese cities like Porto and Faro, thanks to an efficient railway network. The city is also easily accessible by car, with several highways connecting it to other parts of the country.
