Impressive architecture, beautiful scenery and an enviable zest for life, Lisbon is one of the most attractive capitals in Europe captivating masses of tourists, city-breakers, business travellers and globetrotters each year.

History

Lisbon started life around 3000 years ago as Phoenician city called Alis Ubbo meaning “Delightful Shore”. The Greeks and the Carthaginians were attracted to this delightful city before the Romans arrived in 205 BC and stayed until the 5th century AD. The city was then taken over by the North African Moors in 714 who named it Lissabona, fortified it and defended it from invasions for some 400 years. By 1147 Christian fighters under Dom Alfonso Henriques captured the city then in 1260, thanks to Lisbon’s strategic central position and large port, Alfonso III moved the capital here from Coimbra. During the 15th and 16th centuries Lisbon was at the heart of a vast empire and flourished due to its location on a key sea route to India. In 1755 the largest earthquake ever known to hit Europe struck Lisbon leaving much of the city ruined. The city was rebuilt and in 1807 was occupied by Napoleon and his forces.  Portugal joined the European Community (EC) in 1986, was declared the European City of Culture in 1994 and hosted Expo 98 all of which catalyzed the redevelopment of the city into the Lisbon we know and love today.

Getting In & Getting Around

Aeroporto de Portela is the largest international airport in Portugal and serves airlines from all around the world. Located some 7 km (4 miles) north of the city the airport is connected by Aerobus and bus services as well as an abundance of taxis. The two main train stations in Lisbon are Santa Apolónia and Gare do Oriente. Santa Apolónia handles trains from the north – Porto, Gaia and the centre – Aveiro and Coimbra whilst Gare do Oriente is used for services from the east and long distance trains. Within Lisbon itself there are a number of transport options including the iconic yellow trams, metro and bus services.

Culture, Sights & Attractions

With its fascinating history and alluring culture Lisbon has so much to offer that it’s difficult to know where to start. The legendary Tram 28 is an incredibly popular tourist attraction. Meandering through the narrow streets of the city, this famous tram shows you the sights, sweeping views of the city and gives you a taste of the Lisbon way of life en-route to the Castle of St George. The Castle of St George (São Jorge Castelo) is one of the most iconic sights of the city and cannot be missed. The 16th century Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) is a prime example of Maneuline architecture making it another of Lisbon’s famous sights. The city boasts a wealth of museums and galleries that you can peruse at your leisure and for a spot of retail therapy the charming Chiado district offers countless boutiques as well as a number of inviting coffee shops where you can stop for a quick rest.

Eating Out

From traditional Portuguese restaurants playing Fado music and serving fine local fare to top-notch eateries offering a la carte cuisine and food from all around the world, Lisbon has something to cater every taste and budget. For a quick snack Lisbon boasts a plethora of quaint coffee shops as well as countless pastelarias which serve the famous pastéis de nata (custard tarts) fresh out of the oven.

Outside The City

Lisbon is a gateway to some of the most magnificent parts of Portugal, places you can easily visit on a day trip. Sintra, a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just 30 minutes from Lisbon by car or train. Here you will find the impressive Quinta da Regaleira (Royal Palace), the remains of the imposing Moorish Castle, the 19th century Pena Palace and a highly acclaimed toy museum. The pretty beach town of Cascais is a short journey away from Lisbon and offers a wonderful marina and glorious beach at the nearby Guincho area where you can bask in the sun or make the most of the best surf in Europe. Venture out to Setúbal by train to this beautiful seaside town where you can enjoy a stroll around the town, relax on the beach or dolphin watch at the bay.

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