Lisbon, the most westerly of continental European capitals, sits on the Atlantic Ocean and is a historical city replete with stories for telling. From its traditional neighbourhoods to the more modern, this cosmopolitan city features a multitude of activities for its visitors ranging from nautical sports through to late afternoon strolls between Ribeira das Naus and Belém, home to the much sought after Pastel de Belém.
Welcoming and safe, this city mixes innovation with recreation and entertainment extending late into the night.
Lisbon is not only the capital of Portugal but also its beating heart. Hence, the city contains everything that best characterises the nation, especially fado, Portuguese cobblestones and tiles. However, there is so very much more with this very authentic capital also displaying a variety of both locations and traditional dishes laid out for your enjoyment, as is the case with the multiple recipes for bacalhau (dried cod) for example.
As regards the tourism landmarks, among the most prominent are:
- Monastery of Jerónimos;
- Tower of Belém;
- São Jorge Castle;
- The Lisbon Oceanarium;
- The Rua Augusta Triumphal Archway;
- Belém Cultural Centre;
- Convent of Carmo;
- Monument to the Discoveries;
- Lisbon Cathedral (Church of Santa Maria Maior);
- Estrela Basilica;
- Lx Factory / Underground Village Lisboa.
Lisbon is also a traditional city. Whoever spends any time in the city will certainly want to be here for its popular saints festivities, held in June in honour of its patron saint, Anthony. These celebrations reach beyond the religious ceremonies with plenty of street entertainment as is the case with the Marchas Populares street processions. This is also the time of year to head out for some long awaited grilled sardines served on bread, another traditional Portuguese dish.