Portugal Guide
Lisbon
There are few more immediately likeable European capitals than LISBON (Lisboa). A lively place, it remains in some ways curiously provincial, rooted as much in the 1920s as the 2000s. Wooden trams clank up outrageous gradients, past mosaic pavements, Art Nouveau cafés and the medieval quarter of Alfama, which hangs below the city's São Jorge castle. The city invested heavily for Expo 98 and the 2004 European Football Championships, reclaiming rundown docks and improving communication links, and today it combines an easy-going, human pace and scale, with a vibrant, cosmopolitan identity.
The city has a huge amount of historic interest. The Great Earthquake of 1755 (followed by a tidal wave and fire) destroyed most of the grandest buildings, but frantic reconstruction led to many impressive new palaces and churches, as well as the street grid pattern spanning the seven hills of Lisbon. Several buildings from Portugal's golden age survived the quake – notably the Castelo de São Jorge and the Monastery of Jerónimos at Belém. Contemporary sights include the Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, with its superb collections of ancient and modern art.
Highlights
1 Castelo de São Jorge Despite its bloody past, this makes a tranquil haven with dazzling views over the capital.
2 Museu Nacional do Azulejo The splendid azulejo (tile) museum traces the history of this most Portuguese of art forms.
3 Bairro Alto Don't miss a night out in Lisbon's "upper town", packed with vibrant bars, clubs and restaurants.
4 Mosteiro dos Jerónimos The magnificent Manueline monastery houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama.
5 Museu Gulbenkian An awe-inspiring collection of priceless art and antiquities.
6 Antiga Confeitaria de Belém Enjoy a tasty custard tart in Belém's most traditional pastry shop-café.
7 Lux Dance till dawn at one of Europe's coolest clubs.
Read more ▼
- Neighbourhoods ▼
- Practical Information ▼
- Sports and Outdoor ▼