Atmospheric Lisbon Holidays
Look no further than this capital city of Portugal, for a walkable destination offering a rich and varied history, with museums and stunning architecture, a lively nightlife and excellent range of eateries.
Situated between Seven Hills and with only a short bus or train ride to beautiful sandy beaches, Lisbon appeals to all age groups. It’s an all year round destination and even though it can certainly rain in the winter, there are plenty of indoor attractions to escape from the weather! Lisbon is an ideal city break destination, cultural vacation or base for a beach holiday.
Book your city break to Portugal. Or how about a multi-centre holiday in Portugal or an ocean cruise stopping at Lisbon for the day?
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WHY VISIT LISBON?
1. Architecture, museums & landmarks
You will be spoilt for choice! Explore the towers and battlements of Castelo de Sao Jorge, a mid 11th century Moorish castle with outstanding views of Lisbon. Head to the Belen tower, a 16th fortification, and then wander along the Tagus river. The Gulbenkian museum is a must for art lovers.
2. Nightlife & Shopping
In Cais do Sodre, ‘Pink street’- is famous for its night life with its clubs and bars. For mega clubs head to the waterfront. Lisbon offers great shopping opportunities. Head to Rua do Carmo and Rua Garrett for the oldest and most famous shops or try the Freeport outlet.
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3. Food and drink
Lisbon is renowned for its fresh seafood, top grade beef, delicious pastries, cakes and 365 ways to serve cod! (bacalhau). With a full range of eateries from taverns and cafes to Michelin starred restaurants, find time to sample the Portuguese custard tart, Pasteis de Belem, supposedly invented here 150 years ago by Jeronimos’ monks. The 16th century monastery is well worth exploring too!
Check out Mercado de Ribeira, transferred from a fresh produce market to a Food Hall in 2014 and now a gastronomic delight. You will find top chefs on the Northern back row. Sample Ginja, a strong, sweet cherry liquor, originally from Lisbon...and don’t forget bica (espresso).
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4. Beaches
To the West of Lisbon is Carcais-Estoril, while to the South is Costa de Caparica. These beautiful sandy beaches are easily accessible by a short bus or train ride. If you want to travel to the wild beaches of Sierra de Sintra or Serra da Arrabida, it would mean hiring a car. The latter is only 30km from Lisbon, but has some of the most picturesque and stunning scenery and beaches in the whole of Portugal, but is rarely visited by foreign tourists.
Start your Lisbon holiday!
When To Go
The best time to visit Lisbon is during the Spring or Autumn
Flight Time
Around 2.5 hours from the UK.
Top Experiences
1. Ride TRAM 28 for a scenic route through historic districts. These quaint yellow trams retain many features from the 1930’s.
2. Amble around the maze like narrow streets of Alfama, the oldest district which reflects the true essence of Lisbon. It’s also known as 'Fado' district, because here you may hear the haunting music made by a solo singer and classic Portuguese guitar drifting out from bars.
Day trips
1. Find time to explore the fascinating and picturesque palaces, castles and parks of SINTRA.
2. 88 miles north of Lisbon is FATIMA, one of the most important Catholic shrines and place of pilgrimage in the world.
