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Lisbon

Self-organised trips

Portugal’s largest city is also its capital. Although unlike most capital cities, this status has never been granted or confirmed officially. Located by the sea, various invasions have left their mark and the mix of architectural styles is evident from days gone by under Moorish and Roman rule. There are also great stadiums in Lisbon (Sporting and Benfica) where you can attend major football matches and music concerts. When you feel like getting away for the hustle and bustle of Lisbon city life there are sandy beaches only 15km away.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN LISBON

  • The Baixa district is ideal for touring the streets by foot to enjoy the colourful architecture. Then you can climb the hills that surround the area through Santa Justa or take a cable car to reach the Chiado district.
  • The old city district of Alfama is worth a visit. The streets offer a fascinating spectacle as well as being crowned by the castle of Sao Jorge. Built in the fifth century by the Visigoths this was the residence of the Royal Family between the fourteenth and sixteenth century. From the castle you’ll have a full view of Lisbon. It can be visited from April to September, 9am to 9pm; from October to March until 7pm. Admission is free.
  • El Barrio de Belem is located in the suburbs of Lisbon. Here is the Jeronimos Monastery; you can visit the cloisters dating from 1496 every day except Monday, from 10am to 5pm. Ten minutes from here is the Tower of Belém, built in the sixteenth century to watch for boats. It can be visited from 10am to 5pm.

For more travel information on what to do in see in Lisbon, we invite you to visit our partner GetYourGuide.

EATING OUT IN LISBON

Traditionally seafood is splendid in this area, so you should try some during your stay. Different dishes include grilled sole, tuna steak and cod presented in various ways.

GETTING AROUND IN LISBON

Public transport is provided by the Carris buses and the Metro. If you stay at the Lisbon Centre hostel the Picoas metro station (yellow line) is virtually on the door.

Lisbon is only five hours from the city of Faro on the Algarve coast. From Santa Apolonia train station there are trains to Madrid and Paris. The Eurailpass is valid throughout the country's rail network.

Lisbon Airport is connected to the downtown by 44 and 45 buses departing from the tourist office, which takes just 20 minutes.

TOP TIP FOR LISBON

On the 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month a large flea market, Feira de São Pedro, which dates back to the time of the Christian Reconquest, is held in the township of São Pedro de Sintra. At this popular market you'll find local many antiques and handicrafts for sale. Traffic can be quite bad so be prepared.

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