Visitors to Portugal are usually sun-seekers. They simply fly to Faro and head straight off to enjoy the Algarve and its blissful coast. Why not hit the city instead and sample a short stay in Lisbon. It is one of the oldest cities in the world. This renders it particularly interesting and definitely worth considering for a city break.
2 days in Lisbon
Begin your stay in Lisbon with a tram ride through the charming Old Town. This is a great way to get an overview of the area before you visit the best bits.
From here, head to Jeronimos Monastery. This has stood on its site since 1502 and is the resting place of Vasco da Gama, a Portuguese explorer. This spectacular building is a symbol of Portugal’s history. The inside is equally, if not more, impressive. After that, stop by at the Gulbenkian Museum. Here there is a collection of ancient and modern art from all over the world which encompasses two circuits.
Head on over to the Santa Justa Elevator in the late afternoon and enjoy the views of the city below the terrace. You are then perfectly placed to spend some time at Carmo Square. End the day with a delicious meal at one of Rossio Square’s restaurants and watch the fountains twinkle in the twilight.
The second day in Lisbon should begin with a visit to the outstanding Oceanarium. This is in fact one of the largest in the world. With a central tank the size of 4 Olympic size swimming pools, you will get to meet 25,000 sea creatures including different species of sharks! The Oceanarium recreates different ocean ecosystems meaning the sea life is at home in a natural environment.
Head off to St George’s Castle. Settle your curiosity of that huge building that can be seen from all over the city. Whilst the oldest parts of the city date to the 6th century, a lot of the building has been destroyed over the years. Some of the castle still exists though. There are also several towers which you can climb to enjoy wonderful views over Lisbon. Relax for a short in the gardens whilst the peacocks and geese frolic then head off to enjoy the evening! Bairro Alto is the place to come for your evening meal. Follow this with a visit to a Fado House to be entertained by the folklore music.
A 3rd day in Lisbon
Enjoy some retail therapy during your third morning in Lisbon with a visit to Chiado. This is an elegant and sophisticated shopping area with international names as well as boutiques and bookshops and more. Stop for a bica, a strong black coffee at one of the old style cafes. Head off on the tram for a top up of culture at the Ancient Art Museum. The museum showcases European works from the 14th to 20th centuries with plenty of treasures among the collection to be seen.
Belem Tower is another site not to be missed and is undoubtedly the icon of the city. It was built in 1515 as a fortress to defend the harbour. It’s now listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to Lisbon just wouldn’t be complete without coming here.
In the afternoon, get ready for a trip to the nearby seaside town of Estoril for a classy night at Europe’s largest casino. It could well prove to be a successful end to your short break away.
Day 4 in Lisbon
Take a walk around the Botanical Gardens in Lisbon. Then visit Sao Roque Church. From the exterior, the building looks dull. The inside makes up for it ten-fold and renders it the most expensive chapel in the world. From here, take a day trip to the ever popular fairytale town of Sintra. The town is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it will be sure to take your breath away. Enjoy your last Portuguese dinner here before returning to Lisbon.
Have you been to Lisbon or tempted to go? Share your thoughts and opinions.
