Lonely Planet Lisbon: Riverside gem where history is hip
Lisbon is one of Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Cities.
Lisbon is rarely mentioned alongside European heavyweights such as Barcelona or Rome
LISBON, PORTUGAL
It’s got sights, culture and cuisine, yet Lisbon is rarely mentioned alongside European heavyweights such as Barcelona or Rome. If this lack of recognition is what helps the Portuguese capital remain a bargain, long may it continue. Consider the museums: from Egyptian artefacts at Museu Calouste Gulbenkian to pop art at Museu Colecção Berardo, the city groans with them but the appetite appears unsated: a museum devoted to the history of Judaism in Portugal is coming to the Alfama district this year.
TELL ME MORE…
When it comes to good looks few cities can hold a candle to this model draped over seven shapely hills on the banks of the Rio Tejo. But it’s not just the angels in the baroque architecture, the clanking of the Remodelado trams or the post-industrial and bordello-chic mood of Lisbon’s many clubs – no, there’s something else. Something about the way light gleams on the cobbles of Alfama or glints on Lapa’s azulejo fronted facades – something about those sun-washed or lamp-lit streets – makes you feel you’ll uncover an unforgettable travel experience.
Lisbon is draped over seven shapely hills on the banks of the Rio Tejo
City Guide: Lisbon
When it comes to good looks few cities can hold a candle to this model
UNMISSABLE EXPERIENCES
Admire Lisbon’s beauty from the Miradouro de Santa Catarina. Get there via the Elevador da Bica funicular, which has inched up steep Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo since the late 19th century.
Something about the way light gleams on the cobbles of Alfama
From the futuristic Oceanário in Parque das Nações to the Age of Discovery-era Torre de Belém, Lisbon contains enough sights to satisfy the most demanding visitor. But an aimless stroll through its streets can be as rewarding as ticking off these showstoppers.
Expect to hear the clanking of the trams
Gaze out to Cacilhas, where the Cristo Rei statue stands in the company of loved-up locals and travellers who never want to leave.
THE KNOWLEDGE
Classic Collection Holidays (0800 294 9323/classic-collection. co.uk) offers three nights at the Altis Avenida Hotel from £559 (two sharing), B&B. Price includes return flights from Gatwick (other airports available) to Lisbon and transfers. Lisbon tourism: visitlisboa.com
● Extract from Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel: Explore Lisbon and, right, visit the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian 2017 (£9.99)