Lisbon

Portugal

Europe

Destinations

Lisbon is home to a countless UNESCO World Heritage sites, and visitors from all over the world come to marvel at the architecture and the breathtaking views.

[caption id="attachment_11752" align="alignnone" width="670"]<img class="size-full wp-image-11752" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/claudio-schwarz-purzlbaum-K3XGEoZgA0s-unsplash-1_670x400_acf_cropped.jpg" alt="" width="670" height="400" /> Photo by Claudio Schwarz | @purzlbaum on Unsplash[/caption]

Lisbon is the captivating capital city of Portugal. Located on the coast, this hilly city is full of pastel-colored homes, towering castles, historic sites, and bustling marketplaces. Lisbon is home to a countless UNESCO World Heritage sites, and visitors from all over the world come to marvel at the architecture and the breathtaking views. Take a tour of the monasteries and castles, explore old neighborhoods with fascinating pasts and enjoy the traditional Fado music. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie or an arts and culture lover, Lisbon is a city with something for everyone.
<h2>1. Take a tour of the Monastery of Jerónimos</h2>
The Monastery of Jerónimos, also known as Hieronymites Monastery, is a UNESCO listed site and is a notable example of Manueline architecture. The ornate carvings and spires showcase the incredible wealth that Lisbon and Portugal had amassed through colonization during the country’s Age of Exploration. In fact, the monastery was built using mainly the money Portugal had made trading spices from the East. The construction of this masterpiece began in the early 1500s and took over a century to complete. Buy tickets in advance and spend a warm, sunny day taking a tour of the church and expansive cloisters.

[caption id="attachment_1019852" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1124556143-1024x717.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1124556143-1024x717.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1124556143-300x210.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1124556143-768x538.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1124556143.jpg 1200w" alt="Monastery of Jerónimos, Lisbon" width="1024" height="717" /> e55evu / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Visit São Jorge Castle</h2>
São Jorge Castle, or St. George’s Castle, sits on the highest point of Lisbon, watching over the city. The castle is visible from nearly every part of Lisbon. Staring up at the historical landmark, you can’t help but imagine what the city must have been like when the Moors first built the castle over 1,000 years ago. Of course, since the original construction, the site has been developed and rebuilt by countless rulers. The museum housed Portuguese royalty from 1139 when Dom Afonso Henriques came into power. Today, the castle is a museum that’s more than worth a visit. Tourists can visit the castle and the grounds, explore the archaeological sites and enjoy a 360-degree view of Lisbon using the on-site camera obscura.

[caption id="attachment_1021060" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1021060" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/GettyImages-904899794-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Lisbon, Portugal" width="1024" height="683" /> diatrezor / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Explore Alfama and Bélem</h2>
The beautiful district of Alfama is the perfect place to get lost. Spend the day exploring the area’s charming streets and winding alleyways, visiting shops and relaxing in quaint cafés. Alfama is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon, and explorers are rewarded with tile-clad chapels and historic buildings around every corner. The cobblestone streets are narrow and picturesque, and the neighborhood offers visitors a real look into a more traditional Lisbon. Bélem is another historic neighborhood that every visitor should explore. Take in the history, sample the street food and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique cultural identity. You should also make a special stop to see the iconic Bélem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was built in the early 1500s.

[caption id="attachment_1021016" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/944018502-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/944018502-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/944018502-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/944018502-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/944018502.jpg 1200w" alt="Alfama street, Lisbon" width="1024" height="683" /> Kisa_Markiza / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Peruse the Mercado da Ribeira</h2>
This traditional domed market has been in business since the 1800s, but it’s recently been remodeled to house the <i>Time Ou</i>t Market, a food hall founded by the popular travel publication. Visit the market to buy some fresh produce, fish, and flowers and then head to the food hall to sample a range of tasty dishes prepared by some of Portugal’s most famous chefs. This market is the best place in Lisbon to experience high-quality, simple ingredients that make up Portugal’s world famous cuisine.

[caption id="attachment_1021017" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/822785874-1024x684.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/822785874-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/822785874-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/822785874-768x513.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/822785874.jpg 1200w" alt="Market in Lisbon, Portugal" width="1024" height="684" /> FreedomMaster / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Visit the city’s museums</h2>
Lisbon is home to some incredible museums showcasing the country’s rich heritage of history, art, and culture. One must-visit museum is the National Museum of Ancient Art. You can easily spend an entire day exploring it, and you should do just that if your schedule allows it. The museum has permanent and rotating exhibitions of the great painters, sculptors, and craftspeople from both Portugal and Europe. Some of the museum’s highlights include pieces by Hieronymus Bosch, Albrecht Dürer and Gregório Lopes. Another museum to visit is the National Azulejo Museum, which showcases Portugal’s famous ceramic tiles. Learn about the history of the ceramic tiles from when the Moors first introduced them to the present day. Visitors also get to enjoy an impressive exhibition of the stunning blue azulejo tiles while learning about the hand-painted motifs and the craft of ceramic tile-making.

[caption id="attachment_1021018" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/154947983-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/154947983-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/154947983-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/154947983-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/154947983.jpg 1200w" alt="Azulejos, Lisbon" width="1024" height="683" /> fumumpa / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. People watch at the Praça da Comércio</h2>
Although Lisbon is full of stunning plazas to visit, Praça da Comércio is one of the best. Not only is this the grandest and largest plaza, it is also one of the most historically important. The Praça da Comércio was where the royal palace was located until the 1755 earthquake. Visit the plaza to experience a fun, upbeat environment while enjoying a drink and taking in the waterfront view. It’s also the perfect place to relax and spend some time people watching.

[caption id="attachment_1021019" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/682223630-1024x455.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/682223630-1024x455.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/682223630-300x133.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/682223630-768x341.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/682223630.jpg 1200w" alt="Praça da Comércio, Lisbon" width="1024" height="455" /> fotoVoyager / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Sample some Portuguese food</h2>
Stop at any of the high-quality restaurants and bars to sample the delicacies of Lisbon. This city is a paradise for lovers of fish and seafood, and you’ll have your pick of delectable dishes to try. Be sure to try the grilled sardines, stuffed squid and bacalhau à bras. If you’re not ready for an entire meal, stop at a bar to sample some petiscos. Similar to the Spanish tapas, petiscos are small snacks that can include octopus salad, fried cod, and snails in garlic-herb butter. For dessert, try the rich egg custard tarts known as pastel de nata. You can grab one of these tasty treats at any bakery to enjoy with some strong coffee or a cup of tea.

[caption id="attachment_1021020" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/881019082-1024x684.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/881019082-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/881019082-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/881019082-768x513.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/881019082.jpg 1200w" alt="Pastel de nata, Lisbon" width="1024" height="684" /> RossHelen / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Ride Tram 28</h2>
One of the most popular things to do in Lisbon is to ride Tram 28 through the city’s most historic neighborhoods. It’s not just the route that’s appealing; it’s also the tramcars themselves. The bright yellow vintage tramcars are made out of wood, and they instantly transport you to a bygone era. Enjoy a smooth ride through Lisbon’s vibrant streets in retro style.

[caption id="attachment_1021070" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1021070" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/GettyImages-874317902-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="Traffic Around Lisbon Cathedral" width="1024" height="683" /> borchee / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Enjoy the nightlife in Bairro Alto</h2>
Apart from being packed with delightful cafés and tourist attractions, Bairro Alto is also home to some of the best bars and clubs in Lisbon. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, grab a drink at one of the many bohemian bars and let loose. You also have your pick of late-night bakeries and a variety of enticing street foods.

[caption id="attachment_1021022" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1095599654-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1095599654-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1095599654-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1095599654-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1095599654.jpg 1200w" alt="Bairro Alto, Lisbon" width="1024" height="683" /> luoman / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Catch a Fado performance</h2>
Fado is a Portuguese tradition that you simply can't miss. The melodic and melancholy notes of Fado captivate locals and tourists alike. There are countless wonderful places in Lisbon to watch a performance while enjoying a meal and a few glasses of wine. Clube de Fado in Alfama is particularly popular for its warm and inviting atmosphere, its delicious food and its exceptional performances. Head to the club any night of the week to enjoy local talent in a retro environment.

[caption id="attachment_1021023" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1005465890-1024x683.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" srcset="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1005465890-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1005465890-300x200.jpg 300w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1005465890-768x512.jpg 768w, https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/04/1005465890.jpg 1200w" alt="Fado tiles, Lisbon" width="1024" height="683" /> nmessana / Getty Images[/caption]

Fun Things to Do in Lisbon

If you're planning a western European vacation and want to add a unique destination, consider a stop in Portugal. With beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and citizens who welcome tourists with open arms, it's little wonder that Portugal is rapidly becoming a popular vacation destination.

If you're planning a western European vacation and want to add a unique destination, consider a stop in Portugal. With beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and citizens who welcome tourists with open arms, it's little wonder that Portugal is rapidly becoming a popular vacation destination. Located on the Iberian peninsula right next to Spain, Portugal is easy to access for American or European travelers and has a reputation for being a family-friendly destination. However, it still feels exotic and exciting thanks to miles of sun-kissed coasts, cobblestone streets, and fairytale castles.
<h2>1. Lisbon</h2>
Lisbon, Portugal's capital, is one of the most popular destinations in the country thanks to a beautiful location right on the water, sunny climate, and a charming combination of old and new attractions that provides an excellent introduction to Portugal's culture. Cobblestoned streets and colorful tile abound in the oldest part of the city, the Alfama, but not far away in the Bairro Alto, there's no shortage of modern restaurants and exciting nightlife. Enjoy the best views of the city at São Jorge Castle, a Moorish stronghold dating from the 8th century, and don't miss the Gulbenkian Museum, which features an expansive art collection that has pieces from both ancient cultures like the Egyptian dynasties and contemporary Art Nouveau works.

[caption id="attachment_1016199" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/481634308-1024x630.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="630" /> Onfokus / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Sintra</h2>
Just fifteen miles from Lisbon lies the beautiful town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995 thanks to it's "cultural landscape" which "represents a pioneering approach to Romantic landscaping" that greatly influenced other parts of Europe. Based on that description, it's no surprise that Sintra is a gorgeously landscaped hilltop down favored by Portuguese royalty and other luminaries over the years. Here tourists can enjoy fantasy castles like the Castelo dos Mouros and the Palácio da Pena as well as lush, tropical gardens that provide a pleasant change of pace from the bigger cities.

[caption id="attachment_1016200" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/986678790-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> PauloZimmermann / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Porto</h2>
Located in the north of Portugal, Porto is like Lisbon's cooler younger sibling, with a little more edge and a little less polish. Known for its fun music festivals like Primavera Sound, held each June, Porto attracts music-lovers from all over the world who come for their favorite acts but stay for Porto's romantic wine bars, and it's breathtaking riverfront. Harry Potter fans must make sure to visit the famous Livaria Lello bookshop, said to have inspired former Porto resident J.K. Rowling when she was dreaming up the Ollivander Wand Emporium.

[caption id="attachment_1016201" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/922658392-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> EunikaSopotnicka / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Azores Islands</h2>
On your trip across the Atlantic, make a stop on your way in the Azores Islands. This amazing archipelago is part of Portugal, but just a short flight from the Eastern U.S. and only two hours from Lisbon. The Azores are a tropical paradise, with gorgeous flowers, tea plantations, and fields of sweet pineapple to greet visitors. Though the Azores are small, there's no shortage of activities. Popular pastimes include boating, kayaking, golfing, diving, and swimming, especially in the natural swimming pools formed by collapsed volcanic craters.

[caption id="attachment_1016202" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/869128832-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> zodebala / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Nazaré</h2>
If you're into surfing, a visit to the small fishing village of Nazaréis a Portuguese destination you won't want to miss. Thanks to its location on the Atlantic coast of Portugal, Nazaré boasts huge waves caused by an underwater trench. In 2016, Nazaré began hosting a Big Wave Championship each November. If you're an experienced surfer, join in the action, or simply enjoy watching the daring seaside feats while enjoying ultra-fresh seafood and Nazaré's charming local culture.

[caption id="attachment_1016203" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/1089477380-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> Luis Fonseca / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Alentejo</h2>
Visit the Alentejo, a large region in southern Portugal, for the chance to become more intimate with the country's culture. Situated between the Rio Tejo and the northern mountains of the Algarve, the Alentejo comes alive with endless wheat fields, cork plantations, and the famous vineyards that make Portuguese wines some of the best in the world. Take a break from the crowds and tour the Alentejo at your own pace, stopping to explore Roman ruins or quiet beaches away from some of Portugal's busier attractions.

[caption id="attachment_1016204" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/913839104-1024x474.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="474" /> Sohadiszno / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Peneda-Gerês National Park</h2>
Travel about an hour and a half from Porto to reach Portugal's only natural park, Peneda-Gerês National Park, a hidden gem in the northwestern part of the country. Often simply referred to as Gerês, the park is full of botanical surprises, including Portugal's only holly species and the violet Gerês lily, which blooms plentifully here. Observe ancient traditions which are preserved in small villages like Pitões das Júnias and Tourém. You may even encounter exciting wildlife like the roebuck, Iberian wolf, and wild ponies. All of whom make their homes in this verdant preserve.

[caption id="attachment_1016205" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/874859470-1024x681.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="681" /> jacquesvandinteren / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Algarve</h2>
The Algarve is one of the most popular spots for tourists from all over the world. With many of Portugal's most beautiful beaches and a comfortable climate all year long, it's easy to see why. Warm, dry weather provides endless sunny days for frolicking in the sand and exploring the rocky coastline. These ideal temperatures can, unfortunately, lead to some overcrowding during the busiest months of the year. Though it's still possible to find some peaceful spots in some of the smaller villages in the region. In addition to the beaches, the Algarve also offers many culinary delights thanks to eight Michelin-starred restaurants including Vila Joya in Albufeira and São Gabriel in Almancil.

[caption id="attachment_1016206" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/154924271-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> LucynaKoch / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Guimares</h2>
Travel back in time with a visit to Guimarães in northern Portugal. It features a wealth of well-preserved buildings dating from the Middle Ages. These structures helped to earn it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2001. Examples include the 10th-century Guimarães Castle, which provides amazing views of the city from its hilltop location. Don't forget the Dukes of Bragança Palace, which was built in the early 1400s by the illegitimate son of a Portuguese king. There are also many medieval churches, including the granite-walled São Miguel do Castelo Church, which was built in the 13th century or possibly even earlier.

[caption id="attachment_1016207" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/182360746-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> THEGIFT777 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Évora</h2>
Another UNESCO World Heritage site in Portugal is Évora. This town in central Portugal can trace its roots back more than 5,000 years. Start your day at the Évora museum to learn more about the town's past before heading out to explore the sights in person. You can hike alongside medieval city walls, visit a Roman temple dating from the 1st century AD. Be ready to get the shivers in the Capela dos Ossos, a creepy chapel from the 16th century whose walls are studded with skulls and bones.

[caption id="attachment_1016208" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/03/879732190-1024x684.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="684" /> RossHelen / Getty Images[/caption]

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