With a population of just under 700,000, Lisbon is a pretty small capital but is big on culture and things to do. Situated on the River Tagus, an earthquake in 1755 did substantial damage to the city but much of the city’s medieval buildings are still standing. Locals are friendly and come from all over the world, influencing the city’s culture.
There are certain things you can only do in the Portuguese capital. These include visiting one of Europe's biggest aquariums at 'Oceanario de Lisboa' and enjoying a cake in 'Pasteis de Belem'. In this podcast Colm talks to different people in Lisbon about those certain things.
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Download Lisbon Pocket Guide View all guides »Lisbon is a big city to tackle and unless you have four to five days, there are going to be some things you miss! I spent two days exploring all the neighborhoods of Lisbon (a lot of the time consumed by St. George's Castle which is a must see), one day at Sintra, and another day at Belem and Cascais. This was enough time for me to really enjoy Lisbon and the surrounding areas...and don't forget to experience Fado one evening with lots of yummy sangria!
I absolutley love Lisbon. It's like Madrid but so much better. It's very very beautiful. The sea breeze and seagulls are a delight. The mix of cultures and the friendly demeanour of the people is delightful. The bars in Barrio Alto are like nowhere else. The views from the hills fantastic. Public transport fantastic. Food fantastic. Excersise walking up the hills is fantastic.
Insider Tip:There's a Cape Verdian restaurant hidden away on Rua São Cristóvão if you feel like trying something different.
I love Lisbon. This city has so much culture and character while having a modern, clean and smooth feel. The metro system is so simple and easy to use, as are the more regional trains.
Insider Tip:Go to Belem to have the pastries and spend a day at Sintra seeing the Moorish ruins and the Pena Castle. Amazing. Go on the Wild Walkers free walking tour and the pub crawl if you can. The pub crawl was so much fun. Portugal really is cool.
Lisbon is a good city to visit for three or four days. The old town on the hill surrounding the castle is gorgeous, and the small "centro" area is a good place to stay.
Insider Tip:Grab drinks in Bairro Alto, visit Sintra for tourism and make sure to check out a Fado bar for traditional singing.
Lisbon is an amazing city and is actually the second oldest in the world after Athens. You could spend a week here and still not run out of things to do if you like exploring gorgeous Castles, Palaces and Museums. And love wandering through all the alleyways with Tiled buildings crumbling on either side of you. There is also quite a few day trips from here including Sintra (not to be missed), Caiscais and even the Walled city of Evora. It is also quite a cheap city compared with the rest of Euro
Insider Tip:If you are going to see a few attractions check out the Lisboa Card which is well worth the money if you are visiting Sintra or Belem. Many Museums and sights are also free before 2pm on Sunday and some other days so make sure you find out which ones and schedule time in Lisbon for a Sunday to save money. And don't miss the famous Belem Custard Tarts they are truly deliscious.
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