The city has become legendary due to its seven hills and mosaic footpaths, which take you to viewpoints that display the city’s beauty. You may also find yourself wandering through some historical streets and buildings dotted around the city. Lisbon also has an urban culture in its abundance of restaurants, bars, and shopping districts.
Historical Attractions
The Belem Tower is a sight that many tourists flock to on their Portuguese holiday; there is a Moroccan feel running through the World Heritage Site, and a great example is the Moorish-style watch towers. The Venetian-style loggias and statue of Our Lady of Safe Homecoming mean that this monument is one of the most photographed in all of Portugal.
The Jeronimos Monastery is also a must-see; this impressive building showcases Portugal’s power and wealth through its vast size and intricate design. Many great Portuguese icons, such as the poet Fernando Pessoa and Alexandre Herculano, are buried here. These tombs exist amongst columns whose carvings depict monstrous sea life; the multitude of artwork means plenty for you to stroll around and explore.
Lisbon Museums
The Gulbenkian Museum is one of Europe’s hidden treasures, as it houses a variety of arts from a great range of cultures, periods, and countries. The magnificent collection contains the following:
- Great pieces like a gold Egyptian mummy mask.
- A series of bronze cats.
- Hellenic coins.
There are also rare pieces like Chinese porcelain, Japanese prints, and Persian tapestries.
The tile museum is another excellent place to visit as it traces the production and history of tiles throughout the eras. The collection is housed within Madre de Deus Convent; the interior of this building is completely breathtaking due to its regal decor and intricate design work. You can also view the majestic paintings depicting religious scenes and the lives of saints.
Shopping Districts
The Avenida da Liberdade is home to well-known designer brands. The shops span between Prada and Louis Vuitton, and it is the perfect place to buy a treat for yourself or a souvenir for someone special. The Principe Real district and Bairro Alto have more traditional Portuguese shops; you can find local designers and boutiques to delve into. Finally, the Ribeira Market is a great place to explore on Tuesday and Saturday mornings; you can find local produce and Portuguese trinkets at bargain prices.
Beaches
Lisbon has been blessed with many sandy beaches close by – while the waters are quite cool, the expanses of sand and beautiful backdrops mean the Lisbon coast is perfect for a beach holiday. The nearby Cascais has several beaches which attract tourists and locals; Carcavelos and Estoril are popular with younger visitors as there is an abundance of sports and activities to enjoy. Guincho is another beautiful beach; the great waves mean that many surfers flock to the waters each year. You may also want to try Costa da Caparica, Meco, Troia, and Adraga; all are perfect for your relaxing retreat.
