Kick Off Your European Cruise by Spending 3 Amazing Days in Lisbon

If you're planning a cruise to the western Mediterranean, French or Spanish Riviera, or other sunny European destinations, chances are you're setting sail from Lisbon.

Portugal's lively, luminous capital city maintains a feel of timelessness despite its continued cosmopolitan improvements.

First settled in 1200 BC, Lisbon is the oldest city in Western Europe.

Lisbon is known for its cultural heritage, brilliantly preserved architecture, Baroque churches, Fado shows, and delicious seafood. Its rich history, walkable neighborhoods, and dynamic culinary scene make Lisbon a welcoming destination.

Here's some inspiration for your pre- or post-cruise visit:

Day 1 - Arrive in Lisbon

Lisbon's traditional trams offer an easy way to explore the city.

The capital city of Portugal is rich in culture and beautiful architecture. Visitors strolling through Lisbon discover medieval facades, art-nouveau buildings, black-and-white mosaic sidewalks, and charming century-old shops.

Choose a hotel in the city center to access the best restaurants, pedestrian streets, and cafes. For an excellent overview of Lisbon, board Tram N28 and watch the city go by as the tram rattles and shakes up and down the hilly terrain. For the best people-watching, head to Nicola cafe in the morning and the Brasileira cafe in the late afternoon.

Day 2 - Explore Historic Lisbon

Belém Tower is just one of Lisbon's must-see historic sites.

Visit the historic Belém area, central to Portugal's Age of Discoveries. Be sure to see the Tower of Belem and the Monument of Discoveries, a group of sculptures depicting prominent navigators of the era clustered on the prow of a ship.

Next, head to Jeronimos Monastery, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and final resting place of Vasco da Gama. Try the famous Pasteis de Nata, baked onsite every day since 1837.

Make time for the Coach Museum and take in a Portuguese Equestrian School of Art performance. When hunger strikes, stop for lunch at Lisboa LX Factory, a former sugar factory turned boho art hub.

In Lisbon's harbor area, visit the enormous atelier of world-renowned artist Joana Vasconcelos, housed in a former cereal warehouse. Later, explore the Chiado area, where you can try a pair of hand-made gloves at Ulisses, followed by dinner at the Travessa, an awarded restaurant sharing a convent with the Puppetry Museum.

Day 3 - Old and New Lisbon

The National Pantheon towers over Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district.

Board a TukTuk and head to the hills to explore Old Lisbon. Climb to St. George Castle to take in stunning views over the city and reward yourself with a drink at the Pousada Casa do Leao. You'll want to spend some time in Alfama, the city's oldest neighborhood.

Later, head to Lisbon's modern downtown for a tour of the exotic gardens along the River Tagus. Architectural spots you may want to explore include the stunning Portugal Pavillion by Siza Vieira, the Santiago Calatrava Rail Station, and the Oceanarium by Peter Chermayeff.

Lisbon is a foodie paradise noted for its many Michelin star restaurants and creative cuisine with African, Asian, and Brazilian influences. If you wish to end your day on a musical note, try dinner with fado, the nostalgic Portuguese music.

A pre- or post-cruise extension is one way to make the most of your next vacation. If you're ready to start planning a cruise, reach out to me HERE. I'd love to design your next travel adventure.