Lisbon

Having visited Lisbon more than once its a destination that we always look forward to with a sense of enjoyment. Lisbon the capital of Portugal and wraps itself around 7 hills, flowing down to its waterfront at the Tagus and then out to sea. We always find it to be a bustling, exciting and welcoming city with a real sense of its heritage and history.

Arriving in Lisbon

Our first visit to Lisbon was for a short city break, and we flew direct from Edinburgh to Lisbon International Airport or Portela Airport. Lisbon is the main international gateway to Portugal so there is plenty options to get there. To get into the city you can get various buses from the airport, there is also the Metro its a 25 minute trip into the city on the red line. Then there are airport taxis including the option of Uber that is available in Lisbon.

We have also however arrived in Lisbon from the sea, on cruise ships. That is a much more picturesque way to make your entrance to the city center. With the new redeveloped Cruise Terminal only a short 5 minute walk away from the main city square.

Arriving into Lisbon by cruise ship

Cruise ship Celebrity Silhouette docked in Lisbon

Lisbon where to stay

If its your first visit to the city I would recommend you base yourself close to the historic city center, this covers the districts of Baxia, Chiado, Bairro Alto, Alfama and the Avenida da Liberdade. These are the main tourist areas and all are within walking distance of the main sights and attractions with Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodre being the where the cities nightlife is concentrated.

What see and do in Lisbon

Praca do Comercio

This is the central square of Lisbon and was once the site of the cities port, so it enjoys a waterfront position, It was also where historically the administration buildings were situated that controlled Portugal's trade with its then colonies. Now it is lined by a number of bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshment and a bit of people watching.

Statue in center of Praca do Comercio

Refreshment time in the square

Get a view at a Mirador

Lisbon is built on 7 hills which means there are lots of viewpoints ( Miradouros in Portuguese) around the city where you give you some fantastic photo opportunities and views of the city. Couple of good ones are at Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara and Miradouro da Garca both give great views of the Castle of Sao Jorge. But there are many more.

View across the

Castle of Sao Jorge

Visit Lisbon's Castle that sits in the Santa Maria Maior District, during its long history it's served as a military barracks and Royal Palace but is now home to Torre do Tombo National Archive and is a national monument and museum.

Tram 28

One of the more iconic images of the Lisbon is the cities yellow and white vintage electric trams that have been shaking, rattling and rolling around the city since 1901. The most popular of the five lines around the city is Tram 28 that criss crosses the city center passing close to many Lisbon's must see sights. The fare is cheap and it is a experience so give it a try. Word of warning however it can get busy, and be vigilant whilst onboard because of its popularity it also attracts petty criminals in particular pick pockets so keep your valuables secure.

Onboard the tram

Tram 28

Elevador de Santa Justa

Yes Lisbon has its own elevator, and it is a national monument. The elevator was built by Raoul Mesnier who its said was a apprentice of Gustave Eiffel who constructed Paris famous tower and the elevator shares similarities in design with of course a few tweeks. It was built for a practical purpose to let locals climb the steep hill from the city center quickly with ease, and you can still take advantage of it today. Be warned it can get busy particularly on days when a few of the larger cruise ships are in town as it features on most city tours.

Elevador de Santa Justa

Explore the Alfama District

This area is easy to get to by tram, car or simply walking, its a filled with blue tiled houses, the tiles are something that Lisbon is famous for and there everywhere, but this area has some of the best examples but its not just that, take a wander around its many tiny little streets and explore its many artists studios, cafes, restaurants and shops. Great charming place to unwind for a few hours.

Historic tiles on buildings in Alfama

Tuk Tuk tour

In common with many cities these days you can hire a Tuk Tuk to tour around the city. Ok I know there an acquired taste, but we did actually do one in Lisbon and it was very good. We negotiated the price and sights we wanted to visit and off we went. It was a bit of fun and a quick way to get around a few places, so its a option if you are on a Port day from a cruise ship and want to do your own thing rather than a organised tour.

Eat a Pastel de Natalie

This is simple a must do, If you have not tried one of these famous tarts then do yourself a favour and try one in Lisbon, there to be found all around the city. Add a bit of cinnamon on a freshly baked Pastel and it just melts in your mouth. Highly recommended.

Visit Torre de Belem

This UNESCO world heritage site is over 500 years old and sits on the coast on the outskirts of the city. Its a ancient tower fortification which historically served as a point of embarkation and disembarkation for Portuguese explorers and a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. If you do want to visit inside the tower then its advisable to get there early as its a popular attraction and long queues are common.

Eating and Drinking

Lisbon is a vibrant city and the local inhabitants know how to enjoy themselves, so you won't be short of good bars, cafes, restaurants and nightlife to choose from.

The main areas for bars restaurants and clubs are in Barrio Alto and Cais do Sodre. With the street known as Pink Street being a favourite spot, particular with the young and young at heart with loads of bars and clubs. However elsewhere in the city there are some real great spots to just relax and enjoy some great food.

Lisbon Sardine Festival

This may seem strange but trust me its a great event, now Sardines may not immediately make you think of beer and dancing, but thats exactly what happens. The festival takes place mainly in the Alfama District the entire month of June with a main day around the 12 to 14 June including a large parade along the Avenida da Liberdade. The festival is dedicated to St Anthony the patron Saint of Lisbon. On one of our city breaks to Lisbon we discovered this festival by accident and enjoyed two fantastic nights of fun. So if you are going to visit in June give it a look it really is good fun.

A night at the Sardine Festival