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Lisbon, the sun-drenched capital of Portugal, stands as a fascinating blend of old and new. With its historic tramways navigating between modern office blocks, lush parks, and the historic Alfama district, Lisbon stirs up a nostalgic yet contemporary atmosphere. Visitors are awed by the city’s architectural narratives and its vibrant, culturally rich streets. Lisbon not only captivates with its scenic vistas from many hilltop viewpoints but also with its deeply embedded traditional customs and forward-looking innovation, making it a compelling destination for every traveler.
Begin your day early to explore Lisbon’s steep cobblestone streets without the crowds and experience the tranquility of dawn in historic neighborhoods.
Don’t miss a chance to taste the famous pastéis de nata in Belém, freshly baked from a traditional recipe, for a genuine Lisbon treat.
How to best experience Lisbon?
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Most popular city pass for visiting Lisbon
Lisboa Card
/5Access to up to 51 museums or monuments, plus free transport and more across Lisbon with the Lisboa Card, the best way to see Lisbon
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Lisbon Pass
/5Discover the best of Lisbon's past and present with one handy pass
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Top things to do & see in Lisbon
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Lisbon: Enchanting Coastal Capital
| Country | Portugal |
| Time in Lisbon | GMT+0 |
| Language spoken | Portuguese |
| Population | 504,718 (source: Statistics Portugal, 2021) |
| Currency | Euro (€, EUR) |
| Airports | Humberto Delgado Airport (Lisbon Airport) (3.5 mi / 5.6 km). |
Lisbon, the sun-kissed capital of Portugal, is a city steeped in history and culture, making it one of Europe’s most enchanting capitals. Perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon offers breathtaking vistas of land and sea. From its historic Belem Tower to the vibrant alleyways of Alfama, it invites discovery and wonder. The city’s remarkable year-round mild climate adds to its allure, enticing visitors with its warm summers and mild winters.
Lisbon’s heritage is deep-rooted in maritime discoveries, once serving as the departure point for explorers during the Age of Discoveries. This era left a legacy of expansive botanical gardens, grandiose monasteries, and landmark monuments, reinforcing Lisbon’s status as a pivotal maritime capital. The city also thrives with the rhythm of Fado music, echoing through the old cafes and neighborhoods, which tells tales of life, fate, and destiny. Its artistic innovation doesn’t stop at music; Lisbon is replete with museums, galleries, and an evolving street art scene that marries age-old traditions with contemporary culture. Further adding to its vibrancy, Lisbon is also recognized for its rich culinary landscape—from the traditional pastéis de nata (custard tarts) to Michelin-starred dining experiences, there’s a delight for every palate.
In addition to culture and cuisine, Lisbon is an educational hub with some of Portugal’s highest-ranked universities and institutions. These attract an international body of students, researchers, and academics, contributing to the city’s diverse, intellectual atmosphere.
With its combination of traditional heritage and contemporary culture, excellent educational opportunities, and delicious gastronomy, Lisbon remains an inviting city for both tourism and residence, continuously celebrated as a dynamic center of culture, education, and innovation in Europe.
Where is Lisbon?
Lisbon is strategically located on the western Iberian Peninsula along the Atlantic coast of central Portugal.
Distances:
| Route | Distance by car | Time by car |
|---|---|---|
| Porto to Lisbon | 198 miles (319 km) | Approx. 3 hours |
| Faro to Lisbon | 175 miles (282 km) | Approx. 2.5 hours |
| Coimbra to Lisbon | 127 miles (205 km) | Approx. 2 hours |
What is Lisbon famous for?
Lisbon is famous for its rich maritime history, iconic yellow trams, historic architecture, thriving Fado music scene, and delightful culinary traditions.
History
The history of Lisbon, the sunlit capital of Portugal, is a rich mosaic of periods and events. For centuries, this city on the banks of the Tagus River has both witnessed and shaped the history of its nation and the world.
Prehistoric to Roman Rule (3000 BCE – 5th Century)
The area of Lisbon has been occupied since the Neolithic period, with signs of permanent settlements. By 1200 BCE, Phoenicians have arrived, attracted by its strategic location. It was the Romans, however, who left a significant mark on Lisbon, integrating it into the Empire as Felicitas Julia in 205 BCE, boosting the city’s development with infrastructures like theatres, baths, and villas.
Moorish Rule to Reconquest (8th Century – 1147)
Moorish armies conquered Lisbon in the 8th century, introducing new agricultural techniques and architectural styles, as seen in the Alfama district. This period was characterized by coexistence between Christians, Jews, and Muslims. In 1147, Christian forces led by King Afonso Henriques recaptured the city, a significant event in the Reconquista, establishing Lisbon as Portugal’s political heart.
Age of Discoveries (15th Century – 17th Century)
During the Age of Discoveries, Lisbon emerged as the epicenter of world exploration. Explorers like Vasco da Gama embarked on voyages from Lisbon, expanding European horizons and bringing immense wealth. This era led to the construction of iconic monuments such as the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.
18th Century – Earthquake and Rebirth
The 1755 earthquake, one of the most catastrophic in history, devastated Lisbon. The Marquis of Pombal led the reconstruction, creating the Baixa district’s grid pattern. This period redefined Lisbon’s architectural landscape and spurred a series of progressive reforms enhancing municipal structures and public health.
20th Century to Today
In the 20th century, Lisbon underwent substantial changes with the establishment of the Portuguese Republic in 1910 and the enduring Estado Novo regime in 1933. Following the peaceful Carnation Revolution in 1974, Lisbon revitalized its global standing as a center of finance, culture, and tourism, embracing modernization while preserving its past. The Expo ’98, commemorating Vasco da Gama’s voyages, was pivotal in this modern development phase.
Visit Lisbon
What to see and do in Lisbon, Portugal.
Lisbon offers a plethora of attractions and activities that cater to diverse interests:
- Explore the historic neighbourhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto.
- Visit the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém, symbols of the Age of Discoveries.
- Enjoy the dynamic cultural scene at the Berardo Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.
- Ride the iconic number 28 tram through Lisbon’s hills and traditional districts.
- Relish the vibrant nightlife thriving in Lisbon’s many bars and clubs.
- Sample traditional Portuguese cuisine, including the famed pastéis de nata (custard tarts).
Annual Festivals in Lisbon
Lisbon hosts vibrant events throughout the year:
- Lisbon Carnival in March, featuring lively parades and festive music.
- The Lisbon Book Fair in May, an essential event for literature lovers.
- Festas de Lisboa in June, celebrating the city’s patron saint with street parties and decorations.
- Lisbon & Estoril Film Festival in November, showcasing international cinema.
Best time to visit Lisbon
The most pleasant time to visit Lisbon is late spring (May-June) when the city blooms in warm weather and before the peak tourist season. Autumn (September-November) is another great period, offering mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Is Lisbon worth visiting?
Lisbon, with its blend of traditional charm and contemporary dynamics, proves to be a worthwhile destination. The city fascinates with its historic neighborhoods and monumental edifices reflecting a storied past. However, visitors should be prepared for the hilly terrain which can be physically taxing and the summer crowds which can detract from the experience. Despite these challenges, Lisbon’s cultural richness and vibrant lifestyle offer compelling reasons to visit.