[ad_1] Take a Trip to Lisbon: Exploring Portugal’s Stunning Capital

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is known for its rich history, culture and stunning architecture. The city was founded over 2000 years ago and still boasts of its Gothic cathedrals, ancient ruins, and narrow winding streets that are so typical of European cities.

There’s something magical about Lisbon that adds to its unique charm. Its people, its love for Fado, and the love of food are some of the reasons that make Lisbon a destination that must be on every traveler’s bucket list. Here’s our guide to exploring Portugal’s stunning capital.

Getting to Lisbon

The easiest and perhaps the most economical way to reach Lisbon is by air. The city is serviced by two airports; Lisbon Portela Airport and Faro Airport. From the airport, you can take the metro, bus, or taxi to reach the city center.

Another way to get to Lisbon is by bus, train or car. One can take a Eurolines bus from any major city in Europe, or if you prefer traveling by train, you can take the Renfe from Madrid or the CP from Porto.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Lisbon is home to a range of accommodation options that cater to every budget, from luxury hotels to guesthouses, hostels, and apartments. Regardless of where you stay, make sure it’s in the city center or within easy access to public transportation.

Some of the popular neighborhoods include the historic Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto, where you’ll find a wide range of hotels, hostels, and apartments to choose from.

What to Do in Lisbon

Lisbon is a city that oozes charm and has a plethora of attractions to keep you occupied. Here are the top 10 tourist attractions in Lisbon:

1. Torre de Belém – This historic tower is one of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks and was built to protect the city from invaders in the 16th century.

2. Jerónimos Monastery – This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the 16th century and is a perfect example of the Portuguese Manueline style of architecture.

3. Praça do Comércio – This square is one of the largest in Lisbon and is home to some of the city’s most iconic buildings.

4. Alfama – This historic neighborhood is one of Lisbon’s oldest and most charming areas with narrow streets and stunning views.

5. Castelo de São Jorge – This medieval castle is located atop a hill and offers panoramic views of Lisbon.

6. Tram 28 – This is the iconic yellow tram that runs through the Alfama neighborhood, and it’s a must-try experience for every visitor.

7. Rossio – The Rossio Square is at the heart of Lisbon and is filled with shops, restaurants and cafes.

8. Praça Luís de Camões – This square is located in the Chiado neighborhood and is lined with shops, restaurants and cafes.

9. Bairro Alto – This neighborhood comes alive at night with a vibrant nightlife scene in the heart of the city.

10. Parque das Nações – This is a modern part of Lisbon that is home to some of the city’s most contemporary architecture, including the Lisbon Oceanarium.

Where to Eat in Lisbon

Portugal is famous for its food, and Lisbon is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and places you should eat at while in the city:

1. Pastel de nata - A creamy, sweet pastel pastry that originated in Lisbon.

2. Bacalhau - Salt cod is cooked in a variety of ways, and it’s a staple of Portuguese cuisine.

3. A Ginjinha – This is a sweet cherry liquor that is a favorite among locals.

4. Time Out Market – This is a food market that offers a variety of Lisbon’s typical dishes, including seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.

5. Cervejaria Ramiro - Famous for its seafood, this restaurant is an institution in Lisbon, where locals and tourists alike flock to savor the fresh seafood.

FAQs

Q: What’s the best time to visit Lisbon? A: The best time to visit Lisbon is from March to May or from September to October when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Lisbon? A: Visitors from most countries in Europe, the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa to visit Lisbon.

Q: What’s the currency in Lisbon? A: The currency in Lisbon is the Euro.

Q: Is Lisbon a safe city to visit? A: Lisbon is considered a safe city to visit. However, like in any other city, you should always be aware of your surroundings.

Q: Can I explore Lisbon on foot? A: Lisbon is a city that is best explored on foot, as most of the city’s main attractions are located close to each other.

Conclusion

Lisbon is a city that is steeped in history and is often considered one of Europe’s hidden gems. It’s a vibrant and charming city that is sure to leave a lasting impression on every visitor. Whether you’re interested in exploring its rich history or want to indulge in its culinary delights, there’s something for every traveler in Lisbon. [ad_2]