A truly beautiful and unique world city, Lisbon is the largest conurbation in Portugal and also its Capital. The wider region is the wealthiest in the country, and has a well-established tourism industry catering for thousands of happy visitors in quality hotels, self-catering apartments, excellent restaurants and art nouveau cafes. With stunning architecture and a warm climate, Lisbon is the ideal location for a superb city break.
Walking around the city, you will be instantly struck by the picturesque beauty of its buildings. We recommend you visit the Castle of St George, which overlooks the city and the Tagus River below. Dating from the 2nd century BC, it was built as a fortified hilltop citadel and is simply stunning. The impressive Lisbon Cathedral is also not to be missed. Built from 1147 it represents a mixture of architectural styles.
For modern architecture, a visit to Nations’ Park won’t disappoint, neither will Commerce Square with its collection of earlier more elegant grand buildings. To step back in time once again, a trip to the Jeronimos Monastery with its beautiful intricate carvings is a must, as is a visit to the Belem Tower – a building with its heritage in the age of the Portuguese Discoveries.
Lisbon is also world famous for its museums, including the National Museum of Contemporary Art, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the Carmo Archaeological Museum and the National Coach Museum. Why not visit them all and set aside some time for a spot of shopping in Lisbon’s boutiques and malls afterwards?
And when night falls, you can venture out into the pretty streets of the Baixa or the Old Town to enjoy a drink in one of the relaxing bars or clubs. As the sound of traditional Fado music mixes with the taste of Portuguese wine, you’ll never want to leave.