Lisbon, Portugal is absolutely stunning and known for its beautiful colors, detailed tile work, and fresh seafood. Gaining popularity in recent years, tourists have been flocking to Lisbon to experience the culture via a direct flight from many major U.S. cities. Another major appeal is that Lisbon is a relatively inexpensive and can be explored both by foot and public transport.
HOW TO GET THERE
Lisbon is easily accessible by plane, train, automobile, and port. The Lisbon Airport is located about 10-15 minutes outside of the city. The Gare de Oriente is the most popular train station in Lisbon, however there are multiple stops throughout the city. Visitors can take the train to nearby cities as well as connect to the other major railways across Europe. Driving is available, but parking can be challenging to come by and traffic busy. Lastly, Lisbon has an extensive port area. Many cruises are able to dock for a few days at a time at Jardim do Tabaco Quay.
WHERE TO STAY
Lisbon is broken down into various neighborhoods, each with their own benefit:
Alfama - Known for its red roof buildings and winding rows, this neighborhood gives visitors the feel of a traditional neighborhood within the city.
Baixa - Located in the heart of the city between the Alfama and Barrio Alto neighborhoods, this neighborhood is walking distance to many major tourist spots.
Barrio Alto - Known for its active nightlife, this area can be noisy and busy, but will give visitors an array of things to do while at cheaper prices.
Chiado - Known for its trendy shopping and restaurants, this is a neighborhood is on the boarder of the Barrio Alto area, yet quieter.
Principe Real - A more upscale area with luxury hotels and shops.
TIPS FOR VISITING
Take a self guided walking tour. The best way to see the city is by walking it.
Wear comfortable shoes as the city is hilly and full of cobblestone roads.
WHAT TO DO
Alfama District
Known for its labyrinth style winding roads, the Alfama District is the oldest district in Lisbon with notable white buildings with red clay roofs. The colors provide a start contrast between the white buildings with expansive red rooftops against the bright blue skies.
Lisbon Cathedral
The Lisbon cathedral is also called the Cathedral of Saint Mary major and is The oldest church in the city. It is a Roman Catholic Church that was constructed in 1147 involves beautiful stone architecture and details. Being over 100 years old it is like walking through history when you step inside the church. The walls are constructed with delicate artwork and you can learn a lot about the history I am grabbing brochures and reading the informational materials while there. The Lisbon Cathedral still offers Roman Catholics are services at 11 AM and 5 PM Monday to Friday and then Saturday and Sunday 11 AM 5 PM and 7 PM. Lucky for tourists there’s no admission fee but like with any religious location it is requested that all visitors are respectfully dressed during their visit.
Saint George's Castle
Saint George’s Castle offers breathtaking views of the city it is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the area. For a small fee you can gain tickets to the castle and explore the historic castle that has been around since as early as the 6th Century. Throughout the years many of the castle has been restored and remains in good condition.
Rossio Square
A lively central square in downtown Lisbon known for the intricate tile work and large baroque style fountains. The square is lined with restaurants and is close to many major tourists spots. Visitors can spend the day grabbing a coffee at a local café and sitting in the square relaxing taking in the sites of Lisbon.
Barrio Alto
If you're looking for a fun night on the town, take a stroll through this area. Known for tapas and it's bar-line streets, this is a great area for visitors to spend the evening. Many visitors will also choose to stay in this area as it is walking distance from many cultural sites, but be aware that it does get quite noisy at night time.
Marquis de Pombo Square
A central location situated between the Parque Eduardo VII the fifth and the Alfalma and is an intersection of a few major local streets. This circle also has the Monument to the Marquis of Pombal which is a large stone pillar with a statue on top that is dedicated to the previous Prime Minister Marquis de Pombal.
Parque Eduardo VII
The Parque Eduardo VII was created in 1949 and boats 64 acres of park land in the center of Lisbon. it will take you about 20 minutes from the center to the top of the park and from there they’ll be fine views of the city in the water. They’re hedges find by mosaic pattern walkway is that stretches all the way up from the center to the top of the views.
DAY TRIPS FROM LISBON
Cascais
A 1 hour bus ride, Cascais is most known for its sandy beaches and charming atmosphere. It’s blue green waters offer the most beautiful sight. Rainha Beach and Run Visconde da Luz are two popular spots. Cascais is located along the shoreline west of Lisbon.
Sintra
A 1 hour train ride, Sintra is most known for Sintra National Palace (Palacio Nacional de Sintra). The area offers the whimsical charm of traditional Portugal. Sintra is located inland and north west of Lisbon.
Porto
A 3.5 hour train ride through Portugal's countryside, Porto is known for its colorful buildings, winding cobblestone roads, and local markets. This seaside town provides a relaxing escape for tourists . Porto is located north of Lisbon along the water.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
Portugal was the second stop on my study abroad program, Semester at Sea. I wasn't sure what to expect and hadn't considered Portugal (and Lisbon) a destination I was particularly interested prior to visiting. However, Lisbon was a dream. My favorite parts of Lisbon were the colors and tile work. Each building was unique and full of artistry. To add to its appeal, the food was delicious and the people were friendly. I couldn't have had a better experience.
If I could go back, I'd take the day trips to Cascais, Sintra, and Porto. When we boarded the ship to head to the next destination, those who did take the trip to these neighboring towns had raving reviews. Since then, all of these four cities have been on my bucket list of places to return back to / go visit.
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