CITY BREAK lisbon > ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
Lisbon is a vibrant city filled with history, culture, and stunning architecture. The city is famous for its picturesque neighbourhoods, traditional tile-covered buildings, and charming trams. Enjoy delicious seafood, explore the historic Belem Tower, or take a stroll through the winding streets of the Alfama district. With its warm climate, stunning views, and rich heritage, Lisbon is the perfect destination for a City Break!
CITY BREAK TO LISBON, THE CITY OF SEVEN HILLS
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city on the Atlantic coast, known for its charming streets, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine. Take a ride on one of the city’s famous trams, which wind their way through the winding streets and past colourful houses. The Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers beautiful views of the city and the river. The Jeronimos Monastery, another UNESCO site, is a stunning example of Manueline architecture and is a must-see for history buffs. Lisbon is known for its delicious cuisine, which combines traditional Portuguese dishes with Mediterranean and international influences. Try traditional dishes such as “bacalhau” (cod fish), “cozido” (stew) or the famous “pastel de nata” (custard tart) .
The city offers a vibrant nightlife, with a diverse range of bars, clubs, and music venues. Lisbon is also home to many parks and gardens, such as the Eduardo VII Park, which offers a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s mild climate. The nearby coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril are also great places to visit for a change of scenery. Lisbon offers a unique blend of history, culture, and delicious cuisine. The charming streets, historic landmarks, and delicious food make Lisbon a must-visit City Break destination. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food or just looking to have a good time, Lisbon has something to offer!
City Break lisbon: Vibrant Neighbourhoods
Alfama
Alfama is a historic neighbourhood and known for its narrow streets, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Discover the neighbourhood’s rich cultural heritage as you navigate its steep, cobbled streets and explore its many cultural offerings, including its numerous churches, museums, and traditional fado music clubs. Take in the breath-taking views from the top of its hilltop castle, the Castelo de São Jorge, which offers panoramic views of the city and the river below. Enjoy the neighbourhood’s vibrant atmosphere, with numerous street vendors, cafes, and restaurants serving traditional Portuguese cuisine. Immerse yourself in the history of Alfama, with historic landmarks such as the Lisbon Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
Baixa
Baixa is the central shopping and commercial district of Lisbon. It was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake and features a grid-like street pattern, with wide avenues and spacious squares. One of the most famous landmarks in Baixa is the Praça do Comércio, a large square overlooking the river Tejo. The district is home to many other historical and cultural attractions, including the Rossio Square, the Teatro Nacional Dona Maria II, and the Santa Justa Lift. Baixa is a bustling, lively area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it a popular area.
Chiado
Known as the bohemian neighbourhood, Chiado is home to many independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Go to the famous Luís de Camões Square, and the many bookstores and boutiques that line the streets. Take a stroll along the Rua Garrett and admire the beautiful architecture, street performers, and street vendors selling traditional souvenirs. The famous Teatro Nacional de São Carlos, the oldest opera house in Portugal, is also located in Chiado.
Gracia
Charming Gracia is known for its bohemian atmosphere, street art, and independent shops and cafes. Unlike many other neighbourhoods in the city, Gracia has maintained much of its original character and is popular for those looking for a more laid-back and alternative experience. Wander through the streets, admire the street art, and enjoy the neighbourhood’s lively atmosphere. Gracia is also home to several parks, including the Parque Eduardo VII, which offers panoramic views over the city. With its unique charm and friendly atmosphere, Gracia should be on your City Break Lisbon list.
Rossia
This place has a really unique character, with a mix of traditional and modern, the perfect place to discover the real Lisbon. It is home to a number of historic landmarks, such as the Rossio Square and the National Theatre D. Maria II. Stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Estrela Basilica and the Eduardo VII Park, which offer stunning views of the city. Lovers of delicious seafood and traditional Portuguese cuisine should definitely go to Rossia.
Belém
This place is full of beautiful architecture and famous monuments such as the Jeronimos Monastery, the Belém Tower, and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos. Indulge in the famous Pastéis de Belém, a pastry shop that serves the famous Pastel de Belém. The Berardo Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, and the National Coach Museum are also must-see destinations in Belém. The famous Praça do Império, a beautiful square with a garden and many street vendors, is also located here.
Principe Real
This trendy neighbourhood is known for its bohemian vibe, lively nightlife and beautiful gardens. It is home to the famous Principe Real garden, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the city. There are many independent shops, bars, and restaurants. The area is also home to a number of cultural institutions, such as the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Ethnology.
The TOP 10 must-see attractions in LISBON
Belem Tower
Belem Tower is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, situated on the banks of the Tagus River. It was built in the 16th century to commemorate Portugal’s Age of Discovery and serves as a symbol of the country’s maritime heritage. Visit the tower’s multiple levels, each offering stunning views of the city and river. The tower also contains exhibits and interactive displays about its history and role in the city’s maritime defence. Belem Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its unique Manueline architecture is a testament to Portugal’s architectural and cultural legacy.
Jeronimos Monastery
Heritage Site. The monastery was built in the 16th century to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India and is one of Portugal’s most important cultural landmarks. Admire the intricate details of the church and its cloisters, including the famous twisted columns and ornate carvings. The monastery also houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama, making it a significant site for those interested in Portuguese history and exploration. The Jeronimos Monastery offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, with a tranquil garden perfect for a stroll.
Sao Jorge Castle
The Sao Jorge Castle is a historic fortress located in the heart of Lisbon, offering breath-taking views of the city. Built in the 11th century, the castle has played a crucial role in the city’s defence over the centuries and has been well-preserved to this day. You can explore the castle’s towers, battlements, and walls, each offering unique perspectives of the city. The castle is a popular spot for watching the sunset, and its location on one of Lisbon’s seven hills provides panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Rossio Square
Rossio Square is one of Lisbon’s most popular public spaces. The square is home to the National Theatre of D. Maria II, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture, and is surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants. Take a stroll through the square, watch street performers, and enjoy a bite to eat at one of the many outdoor cafes. Rossio Square is also a great place for people-watching, as locals and tourists alike come to enjoy the lively atmosphere. In addition to its architectural beauty, the square is rich in history, having been the site of many important events and celebrations over the centuries.
Lisbon Cathedral
The Lisbon Cathedral, also known as the Santa Maria Maior, dates back to the 12th century. The cathedral is the oldest church in Lisbon and is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Admire the intricate details of the church, including its stone carvings and stained glass windows. Climbing to the top of the cathedral’s tower offers panoramic views of the city. The cathedral has a rich history, having been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over the centuries, and has played an important role in the religious and cultural life of Lisbon.
Rua Augusta Arch
The Rua Augusta Arch is a grand monument and was built to commemorate the reconstruction of the city after the 1755 earthquake. The arch is adorned with statues and offers stunning views of the city. The surrounding area, known as the Baixa, is filled with shops and restaurants, making it a popular destination. The Rua Augusta Arch is also a popular spot for taking photos, with many visitors stopping to snap a picture of the stunning monument. The arch is a symbol of Lisbon’s resilience and its determination to rebuild after disaster, and is an important part of the city’s history and culture.
Bairro Alto
Historic Bairro Alto is known for its vibrant nightlife and traditional Fado music. The neighbourhood is filled with winding streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. Bairro Alto is also home to many bars and clubs, making it a popular place if you are looking for a night out on the town. During the day, you can explore unique shops, including vintage and independent stores. Bairro Alto is rich with cultural heritage, and one of the most authentic areas in the city. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply looking for a fun night out, Bairro Alto is the place to be.
The Lisbon Oceanarium
The Lisbon Oceanarium is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. It was opened in 1998 and contains over 16,000 marine animals from 450 species in a 1.5-million-liter tank. The tank is designed to simulate the ocean, including different habitats like the Atlantic Forest, the Rocky Coast, and the Open Sea. You can enjoy a variety of exhibitions and shows, including dolphin and seal shows, and also have the opportunity to interact with the animals in various exhibits. The oceanarium is dedicated to educating visitors about ocean conservation and the importance of protecting marine life.
The Lisbon Story Center
The Lisbon Story Center is a museum that offers an interactive and immersive experience of the city’s history and culture. It covers the history of Lisbon from its origins to the present day, using a combination of modern technology, storytelling, and traditional exhibits. Explore the city’s historical events, architecture, and famous figures through interactive displays, films, and audio guides. The museum also showcases the traditional crafts and products of Lisbon, including ceramics, textiles, and seafood. The Lisbon Story Center is a popular destination and provides a unique and engaging way to learn about the city’s rich heritage.
The Carmo Convent and Museum
The Carmo Convent and Museum was built in the 14th century as a Gothic-style church, but was left in ruins after the 1755 earthquake. The ruins have been preserved and now serve as a museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to the history of Lisbon. You can visit the remains of the church, including its arches, columns, and vaults, and learn about the history of the Carmelite Order and their role in the city. The Carmo Convent and Museum is a unique and fascinating attraction that provides visitors with a glimpse into the history of Lisbon and its cultural heritage.
The best city break activities LISBON
Shopping in Lisbon
Lisbon is a great destination for shopping, with a wide range of shops, markets, and malls to choose from. The city is known for its local products, including ceramics, textiles, and leather goods, as well as its many international brands. Baixa is known for its wide streets and neoclassical architecture and is a popular shopping area. It is home to many shops, department stores, and malls, as well as a range of restaurants and cafes. Chiado is known for its cultural scene and its many museums, galleries, and theatres. It is also a popular shopping destination and is home to many upscale shops, department stores, and malls. Principe Real is a trendy neighbourhood with chic shops, restaurants, and bars. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists and is known for its lively atmosphere. Amoreiras is known for its shopping centers, including the Amoreiras Shopping Center and the Armazéns do Chiado Shopping Center. It is home to many international brands and is a popular destination for locals and tourists. Mercado da Ribeira is a large indoor market that is located near the waterfront and is a popular destination for locals and tourists. It is home to a range of stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and other local products.
3 Fun activities for Children
Lisbon Zoo
The zoo features a wide variety of animals from around the world, including big cats, primates, elephants, and reptiles. It’s also home to several endangered species, such as the Iberian lynx and the black rhinoceros. The zoo offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for children and families and you can take part in animal feedings and shows. The zoo also has a playground and a café.
Oceanário
The Oceanário de Lisboa, or Lisbon Oceanarium, is an ocean-themed aquarium located in Parque das Nações. It’s one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe and features a variety of marine life from around the world, including sharks, rays, seahorses, and penguins. The highlight of the aquarium is a large central tank that simulates different ocean environments, including the Arctic and the Mediterranean. The Oceanário also offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for children and families.
Vasco da Gama Tower
The tower stands at a height of 147 meters and is the tallest building in Portugal. It features an observation deck, a restaurant, and a gift shop. It’s a great destination for families with children as it offers an interactive exhibition and a playground. The tower is named after the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, who was the first European to reach India by sea. It’s located in the Parque das Nações area, which is also a great spot for family activities.
Football: Benfica and Sporting
S.L. Benfica is the most successful football clubs in Portugal. Benfica has won a record 36 Primeira Liga titles and has also won numerous other domestic and international titles, including the European Cup/Champions League (twice) and the UEFA Cup/Europa League (once). The club plays its home games at the Estádio da Luz, a modern stadium located in the Benfica neighbourhood of Lisbon that has a capacity of over 65,000. Benfica has a strong and passionate fan base and is one of the most well-supported clubs in Portugal.
Sporting Clube de Portugal, commonly known as Sporting Lisbon or just Sporting, is one of the most successful and popular football clubs in Portugal. Sporting has won 18 Primeira Liga titles and has also won numerous other domestic and international titles, including the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup (once) and the UEFA Cup/Europa League (twice). The club plays its home games at the Estádio José Alvalade, a modern stadium located in the Alvalade neighbourhood of Lisbon that has a capacity of over 50,000. Sporting has a strong and passionate fan base and is one of the most well-supported clubs in Portugal.
To get tickets for a match of either S.L. Benfica or Sporting CP in Lisbon, there are several options. Both clubs have official online ticket platforms where you can purchase tickets for matches. Both S.L. Benfica and Sporting CP have offices in Lisbon where you can purchase tickets in person. These offices are typically open during regular business hours and may offer a more limited selection of seating options compared to the online platforms. There are also a number of ticket vendors in Lisbon who sell tickets for both clubs. These vendors can typically be found around the stadiums or in central locations in the city. It is advisable to purchase tickets well in advance, especially for high-profile matches, as they tend to sell out quickly.
EIohim Spa
This luxury spa and wellness centre offers a variety of treatments and services. The spa features a range of facilities including a Finnish sauna, a Turkish bath, a fitness room, and a swimming pool. You can also enjoy massages and beauty treatments, as well as a variety of body and facial treatments. The spa has a relaxation area where you can unwind and enjoy a drink or snack. Elohim Spa is an ideal place if you are looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience during your City Break Lisbon.
Mercado da Ribeira
Also known as the Time Out Market, it is housed in a restored 19th-century building and features a variety of vendors selling a wide range of local and international foods. The market includes a number of high-end seafood, meat and pastry shops, as well as a number of casual eateries serving traditional Portuguese dishes. The market has several bars that serve local wine and beer and a variety of other beverages. Mercado da Ribeira is a great place for food lovers looking to sample the local cuisine. Do you like discovering new products and to have a taste of some of the best traditional Portuguese dishes? This is the place to go.
Most Romantic Spot
The Miradouro das Portas do Sol (Viewpoint of the Gates of the Sun) located in historic Alfama offers panoramic views of the city, including the Tagus River and the historic rooftops of the city. The terrace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is the perfect spot to watch the sunset. It’s a great spot to enjoy with your partner and to create romantic memories. Enjoy a drink or a snack at the nearby café while enjoying the views. The viewpoint is also a great spot for photography as it offers a unique perspective of the city.
Best Kept Secret
Located in trendy Bairro Alto, Miradouro de Santa Catarina viewpoint offers panoramic views over the city and the river Tejo. It is a hidden gem that is less well-known than some of the other famous viewpoints in Lisbon, such as the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. The Miradouro de Santa Catarina is surrounded by gardens and a playground, making it a peaceful and relaxing place to enjoy the views. There is a cafe and bar on-site, where visitors can enjoy refreshments while taking in the stunning scenery. With its breath-taking views, tranquil atmosphere, and convenient location, the Miradouro de Santa Catarina is a must-visit if you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience during your City Break Lisbon.
LISBON Food & Drink Scene
Lisbon is renowned for its delicious and diverse cuisine, which reflects the city’s rich history and cultural influences. Some of the most popular traditional dishes include bacalhau (salt cod), which is often prepared in various ways such as a casserole or a pastry, cozido (a stew made with various meats and vegetables) and sardines which are often grilled on the streets and served with bread and lemon. The city is also known for its seafood, particularly its grilled fish dishes, and its traditional sweets such as pasteis de nata (custard tarts) and arroz doce (sweet rice pudding). The city also has a growing wine scene with many local wineries producing high-quality wines. Vinho Verde, a young, light and fresh white wine, and Port, a fortified wine are two famous Portuguese wines that you can try.
Lisbon offers a variety of gastronomic experiences such as cooking classes, food tours, and wine tastings, which are a great way to discover more about the city’s culinary heritage. You can find a number of food markets, such as the Mercado da Ribeira, which offer a great opportunity to sample local delicacies and purchase local produce. Lisbon’s gastronomy is a combination of tradition and innovation, a mix of flavours, and a reflection of the city’s history, culture, and diversity.
Pastel de Nata
Pastel de Nata, also known as Pastel de Belém, is a traditional Portuguese custard tart that originated in the city of Lisbon. It is made with puff pastry, filled with a creamy egg custard, and typically dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar. The tarts are usually served warm and are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. Pastel de nata is one of the most popular Portuguese sweets and can be found in almost every pastry shop in Lisbon and all over Portugal. The recipe for the custard filling is a closely guarded secret, but the traditional version is said to be made by the monks of the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in Belem, a suburb of Lisbon.
Ginjinha
Ginjinha is a traditional Portuguese liqueur made from sour cherries, also known as “ginja” in Portuguese. It is a sweet and fruity drink that is usually served in small cups or shot glasses. Ginjinha is traditionally made by soaking sour cherries in alcohol, along with sugar and other spices, such as cinnamon and cloves. The cherries are then removed and the remaining liquid is bottled and sold as ginjinha. The drink is typically consumed as a shot, although it can also be mixed with other ingredients to create cocktails. Ginjinha is a popular drink in Lisbon and you will find it in many bars and restaurants throughout the city. Ginjinha is like a little burst of cherry-flavored sunshine in a glass – one shot and you’ll be feeling sweet as a Pastel de Nata! Just be careful, because the alcohol content can sneak up on you, and before you know it, you’ll be dancing on the tables and singing fado at the top of your lungs.
Eleven
Eleven is a fine dining restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional Portuguese cuisine. The restaurant is located in the trendy LX Factory and is headed by chef Joachim Koerper, who has worked in Michelin-starred restaurants around the world. The menu features a variety of seasonal ingredients and focuses on seafood and grilled meats. The restaurant has a wine list with a selection of local and international wines. The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, and the service is attentive and friendly. Eleven Restaurant is a great place if you are looking for a special dining experience in Lisbon.
Lumi Rooftop
Located in trendy Bairro Alto, Lumi offers a variety of signature cocktails, as well as a selection of local and international wines, beers, and spirits. The bar also serves a variety of small plates and snacks to accompany your drinks. The atmosphere is chic and sophisticated, and the views of the city from the terrace are simply breath taking. Lumi rooftop bar is the place to be to enjoy a drink while taking in the sights of Lisbon.
Top Nightlife Spots LISBON
Lisbon is known for its lively nightlife scene, with a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences. Bairro Alto is one of the most popular spots for nightlife in Lisbon, with a variety of bars and clubs that offer a mix of traditional and modern music. The area is known for its fado houses, where you can enjoy live performances of traditional Portuguese music. Cais do Sodré is another popular neighbourhood for nightlife, with a variety of bars and clubs that offer a mix of electronic and hip-hop music. Lisbon also has a number of rooftop bars, such as Lumi Rooftop Bar, that offer stunning views of the city and a chic atmosphere. These bars are particularly popular during the summer months.
For those who prefer a more relaxed evening, there are many traditional taverns and wine bars that offer a selection of local wines, beers and traditional Portuguese dishes. These venues are a great place to experience the city’s culinary heritage. Lisbon’s nightlife scene offers a variety of options to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or to enjoy a quiet drink while taking in the views, there’s always something going on in Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Teatro Nacional de São Carlos
The Teatro Nacional de São Carlos is the oldest opera house in the country and one of the most important cultural venues in the city. The theatre was built in the 18th century and features a neoclassical design with a beautiful marble facade. The interior is richly decorated with frescoes, gilded moldings and chandeliers. The theatre is home to the São Carlos National Theatre Company and regularly hosts a variety of opera, ballet and classical music performances. It also has a museum that tells the story of the theatre and its history. Do visit it if you are a music and theatre lover.
Teatro Nacional D. Maria II
The Teatro Nacional D. Maria II is the most important theatre in the country and one of the most important cultural venues in the city. This theatre was built in the 19th century and features a neoclassical design with a beautiful marble facade. The interior is richly decorated with frescoes, gilded moldings and chandeliers. It is home to the National Theatre Company of Portugal and regularly hosts a variety of performances including opera, ballet, drama, and contemporary dance.
Campo Pequeno
The Campo Pequeno is an historic bullring and was built in 1892. The bullring has a neoclassical design with a beautiful marble facade and a grand entrance hall. The Campo Pequeno is home to bullfighting events and other performances such as concerts, plays, dance performances, and comedy shows. It is also a popular venue for festivals and events. The bullring has a seating capacity of 8,000 and a great place to visit during your City Break to Lisbon, especially if you are interested in Portuguese cultural heritage.
Altice Arena
The Altice Arena (formerly known as MEO Arena) is a modern concert and events venue. It was built in 1998 and has a modern design and features state-of-the-art technology and lighting. With a seating capacity of 20,000 it is one of the largest venues in Portugal. The arena regularly hosts a variety of events, including concerts, festivals, sports events, conferences and exhibitions.
Lux Fragil
Lux Fragil is a well-known nightclub, located in Cais do Sodré, near the river Tagus. The club has a reputation for its electronic and techno music, and it’s known for having a great sound system and a good crowd. The club features a large dance floor and a VIP area. Lux Fragil is open from Wednesday to Saturday and is one of the best clubs in the city for electronic music lovers. The club has a good reputation for its lighting and decoration, which creates a unique atmosphere.
Festa de São João
The Festa de São João is an annual celebration held on the night of June 23rd, in honour of Saint John the Baptist. The festival is one of the most popular and traditional celebrations in the country, and it’s celebrated throughout the city, with the most popular events taking place in Ribeira, the historic centre of Porto. The festival is characterized by a lively and festive atmosphere, with people dancing and singing in the streets, and fireworks displays. The main attraction of the festival is the “Queima das Fitas,” a parade of students from the city’s universities, wearing traditional costumes and carrying banners. People also traditionally hit each other with plastic hammers and share sardines, bread and wine. Sounds like fun, right? Enjoy traditional music, food and drinks. It’s a great opportunity to experience the Portuguese culture and to join the locals in their celebration. The Festa de São João is like a big birthday party for Saint John the Baptist – and everyone’s invited! Just be prepared to dodge a few plastic hammers, and maybe bring a bib for all the sardine juice that’s sure to fly around.
Getting around the city
Lisbon Airport
Lisbon Airport is the main international airport serving Lisbon. It is located in the eastern part of the city, about 7 kilometres (4 miles) from the city centre. Lisbon Airport is a major hub for TAP Air Portugal and is the busiest airport in Portugal. The airport has three terminals: Terminal 1 is used for domestic flights, Terminal 2 is used for international flights, and Terminal 3 is used for low-cost carriers. To get from the airport to the city centre, travellers can take the metro, buses, taxis, or ride-sharing services. The metro is the most convenient and cost-effective option, with a direct line connecting the airport to the city centre. Buses and taxis are also readily available outside the terminal buildings.
Public Transport
Lisbon has an extensive public transportation network that includes buses, trams, metros, and trains. Buses run frequently and are a convenient way to get around, although traffic can be heavy at times. Bus tickets can be purchased at vending machines or on the bus itself. Lisbon has several historic tram lines that run through the city. Trams are a popular tourist attraction and a convenient way to get around the city, particularly in the historic centre. Tram tickets can be purchased at vending machines or on the tram itself. Lisbon also has four metro lines that cover most parts of the city. The metro is a fast and convenient way to get around, and tickets can be purchased at vending machines or on the metro itself.
Lisbon has several train stations that offer connections to other parts of Portugal, as well as to some international destinations. The city’s main train station is Rossio Station, located in the centre of the city. Unique to Lisbon are the funiculars. These electric-powered funiculars connect the lower and upper parts of the city. Funiculars are a convenient way to get around and offer stunning views of the city. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines or on the funicular itself. To get around Lisbon, you can use a single ticket or a rechargeable card called the “Viva Viagem” card, which can be used on all modes of public transportation in the city. You can also purchase day passes, which offer unlimited travel on all modes of transportation for a set period of time.
Biking in Lisbon
Lisbon is a great city for biking, with many bike rental options and plenty of opportunities for scenic rides. Bicycle rental shops can be found throughout the city, including near major tourist attractions and at major train and metro stations. There are also several bike-share schemes available, making it easy to rent a bike for a short time. Biking in Lisbon is generally safe, although it is always important to take precautions when cycling in any urban area, such as wearing a helmet and being aware of traffic. There are some dedicated bike lanes in Lisbon, but the city is not yet fully equipped with bike infrastructure, so cyclists may need to share the road with cars and other vehicles.
Remember, Lisbon is a hilly city, and there are certainly some steep inclines in certain areas, particularly in the historic neighbourhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto. However, this does not mean that biking is not a viable option for exploring the city. If you are not comfortable cycling uphill, you can also rent an electric bike, which can make navigating the hills much easier. Some parts of Lisbon may be steep, it is still possible to enjoy a bike tour or rent a bike to explore the city, especially if you are comfortable with some uphill cycling or choose to rent an electric bike.
Prepare for your city break to LISBON
Famous movies
One of the most famous movies that was shot in Lisbon is “Inception” directed by Christopher Nolan, released in 2010. The movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Ken Watanabe, and Tom Hardy, among others, was shot in various locations in the city, including the historic Alfama neighborhood, the Praça do Comércio, and the Parque das Nações. The movie was also shot in other locations in Europe, like London, Paris, and Tangiers. The city of Lisbon provided the perfect backdrop for the movie’s action scenes and its historical architecture was also featured in the movie. The movie was a commercial and critical success and received 8 Oscar nominations, winning 4 of them.
Best travel book
There are many great travel books on Lisbon, but one that stands out as a classic is “Lisbon: A Cultural and Literary Companion” by Antonio Lobo Antunes. This book is a comprehensive guide to the city’s culture, history, and literature. It provides a detailed and insightful look at the city’s landmarks, neighbourhoods, and customs, as well as its art, music, and cuisine. The book also includes a number of essays and short stories by some of Portugal’s most renowned authors, which provide a unique perspective on the city and its people. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of Lisbon’s rich culture and history.
Time and money
The currency in Lisbon, Portugal is the Euro (EUR). The time zone in Lisbon is Western European Time (WET), which is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1). During the summer months, daylight saving time is in effect, and the time zone is two hours ahead of UTC (UTC+2).
The history of Lisbon
Lisbon has a rich and varied history that spans over 2,800 years. It was founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC and was later conquered by the Romans in the 2nd century BC. During the Middle Ages, Lisbon was an important port city and a major centre of trade and commerce. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Lisbon experienced a
period of great prosperity and cultural flourishing known as the Portuguese Golden Age. This was a time of significant exploration and expansion, as Portuguese navigators and explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan made significant contributions to the field of global exploration. In the 19th and early 20th centuries,
Lisbon underwent significant modernization and industrialization. The city was hit hard by World War II, however, and suffered significant damage during the war. In the decades following the war, Lisbon underwent a period of rapid reconstruction and development, and today it is a thriving, modern city.