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Draped across seven hills overlooking the Rio Tejo, Lisbon's old-world charm, modern vibrancy, and magnificent climate is drawing increased notice from travelers from around the world.
Portugal is a long-time favorite destination for Europeans on holiday. Some of the world's best beaches wrap around its coastline, the cities are lively and unique, and wine production is one of the country's most ancient traditions.
As Portugal's main international gateway, visitors often pass through Lisbon on their way to the beaches or wine country. Yet Lisbon is a fantastic destination in itself, worth spending at least two to three days exploring. One of Europe's less-visited capital cities, Lisbon remains a well-kept secret with much to see and experience.
Historical sites
As one of Europe's oldest cities, Lisbon was an essential seaport throughout history and a frequent target for invasion. Several civilizations colonized Lisbon, including Greeks, Romans, Moors, and after 1147, the Portuguese.
The city is full of monuments, palaces, and other buildings that reflect a breadth of architectural styles. Though it suffered a devastating earthquake in 1755, Lisbon escaped bombings during World War 2, leaving structures from many historical periods intact.
A tour of the city will expose you to its history and culture. The 16th-century Manueline era produced monuments unique to Portugal, ornamented with maritime symbols, the king's seal, and the national crest. The majestic Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an example of Manueline architecture.
Gothic, Baroque, Moorish and Pombaline designs can also be found throughout the city.
Modern Attractions
The 1998 Lisbon World Expo marked a period of revival as the city transformed a neglected area into a thriving neighborhood anchored by architectural masterpieces like Calatrava's Oriente Station and Siza's Portugal Pavilion.
Visitors can stroll along the Tagus River or ride the cable car to the Vasco da Gama Bridge and take the elevator up the Vasco da Gama Tower to check the view from the top.
More recently, the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology opened in the historic riverfront Belém district in 2016. The contemporary museum is covered in 15,000 white ceramic tiles, and while some say the exterior resembles the scales of a fish, its undulating form was inspired by the movement of water.
Sustainability
The seaside capital received the European Green Capital Award in 2020 thanks to its efforts to fight climate change, including a 50% citywide reduction in carbon emissions. Two-thirds of Lisbon's bike-sharing fleet are electric, allowing locals and visitors to more easily traverse the city's seven hills.
Culinary Experiences
Portugal has a long tradition of excellent cuisine, and one of the best ways to experience its variety is on a food tour. Join an expert foodie on a walk through the lively Baixa and Chiado neighborhoods, stopping in restaurants and food shops along the way. Taste cured ham and local cheese, fish, roasted chestnuts, and pasteis de nata, a sweet pastry beloved by locals.
A cadre of young chefs is changing the landscape of Portuguese cuisine. Two-star Michelin chef José Avillez has led the charge, blending Portugal's rich culinary heritage with a modern approach. His intimate Belcanto in São Carlos Square is #42 on "The World's 50 Best Restaurants List."
Chef Hugo Brito opened Boi-Cavalo in an old butcher shop in the Lisbon neighborhood of Alfama. The former video artist strives to reimagine some of Lisbon's classic dishes using common, traditional ingredients.
To satisfy your sweet tooth, check out one of the small-batch chocolate shops in Bairro Alto, like Chocolataria Equador or Bettina and Niccolò Corallo.
Shopping
Lisbon offers a huge variety of shopping from gleaming shopping centers to traditional, family-run markets. The city's blossoming creative and artisan scene offers a host of unique shopping experiences and one-of-a-kind goods that you just may want to tuck into your suitcase and bring home.
Embaixada is a shopping gallery located in Ribeiro da Cunha Palace, a 19th-century new-Arabian edifice in the trendy Príncipe Real neighborhood. The boutiques host a series of artists and brands focused on Portuguese design, craftsmanship, fashion, gastronomy, and culture. The ground-floor café and collection of rotating art exhibits complete the experience.
LX Factory is a former industrial complex that has been transformed into a mural-splashed collection of artisan shops, also in the Príncipe Real neighborhood. The urban, trendy space is a growing tourist attraction that houses shops, restaurants, bars, bookstores, and galleries.
Are you inspired to check out Lisbon? Contact us today and let's get started!
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