When you visit Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, start by visiting the Baixa Pombalina, in the very heart of this beautiful city,
If you visit Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, start by visiting the Baixa Pombalina, in the very heart of the city,
bounded by the magnificent square called Praça do Comércio, which opens on to the river.
The views are best appreciated by heading uphill to St. George’s Castle, the Santa Justa Lift or other viewpoints, such as São Pedro de Alcântara and Graça.
Another interesting thing to do is take a tram ride through the typical neighbourhoods of Alfama and Mouraria.
The views over the built-up area and the Tagus, which unfold before your eyes at every turn, will take you by surprise, and perhaps the melody of fado music will too.
Other not-to-be-missed experiences include a trip to Belém to sample the famous custard tarts and to visit the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower.
Like fado, they are UNESCO World Heritage.
You could also explore the Museu dos Coches (National Coach Museum) and Belém Cultural Centre and, at the other end of the city.
The Parque das Nações (Park of Nations), a fine example of modernity with squares, gardens and one of Europe’s largest oceanariums.
If it’s nightlife you’re looking for then either stay along this stretch of the river or head to the Bairro Alto neighbourhood.
Lisbon is also a great city for shopping. The best shops are to be found between the Avenida da Liberdade and the Chiado, in the Príncipe Real or in the shopping centres.
But in this respect, the city of Porto is a serious rival. From the city centre, known as the “baixa”, where the main shopping street is the Rua de Santa Catarina, to the Clérigos, or the Boavista – Foz – Avis area, all of which boast ultra-chic shops and top brand names.
And the range and variety are rounded off in the surrounding areas by Gaia and Matosinhos.
