Loading

MEET LISBON What to do...

Curiosities

Whoever is born in the city is called “alfacinha”!

There is no reliable explanation to justify the term's origin, but there are two very plausible hypotheses: the first is that, during the Arab occupation they planted many lettuces

The second theory is that at the time of population would have starved and , to survive ,they had to eat what else was available in the region: lettuce. Curious, isn't it? If you ever intend to live in Lisbon, you already know this interesting detail.

Lisbon has already suffered an earthquake and soon after a tsunami and a fire!

The tragic event forever marked the history of the city. It was on 1st November, 1755, All Saints' Day, when at 9:40h the city trembled violently over an earthquake. According to records at the time, the earthquake lasted between three and six minutes, enough to cause terrible damage to the city.

About 40 minutes after the incident, a tsunami especially invaded the port area and downtown.

As it was a religious date, there were many candles lit. A perfect occasion for the fire to spread – and spread, destroying a huge portion of the city. Studies claim that about 85% of the city's buildings were damaged by the earthquake, tsunami and/or fire.

Sightseeing & Activities

You may love Lisbon for the monuments, ideal conditions for the practice of sport or delicious gastronomy. Even for all these reasons and more. One thing is certain: all the time in the world won’t be enough to enjoy all to do and see in the capital. Make your choice and let Lisbon blow your heart away.

Attractions

Some of Lisbon’s most popular attractions are not included in the habitual compilations of the top 10 tourist spots.

Despite the region having plenty to offer that goes beyond what you will find just in the city, the city itself creates unforgettable moments in unexpected places.

The romance of catching tram 28 and getting a glimpse of the inside of the houses that decorate the climb up to Graça. The unique feeling of arriving at Cascais by train, having travelled along the coast right beside the mouth of the Tagus. The tranquility of the zoo. These are just some of the experiences that can make your stay absolutely unforgettable.

August street arch

Climb up one of Lisbon’s iconic buildings for a unique view of the city.

The Arch leaves Lisbon at your feet, literally.

Portuguese sidewalk

Learn more about this art form that you can step on in Lisbon. Let your feet walk on – and your eyes savor – the unique patterns that can be found in the city.

Glory Elevator

Save your legs on the ascent, but this funicular will leave you breathless anyway. It’s the best way to climb from Baixa to Bairro Alto and arrive without needing to rest.

Commerce Square (Terreiro do Paço)

One of Lisbon’s iconic squares that you must see. This famous square is ready to welcome you with various attractions and a nobility that is clear to see.

Cabo da Roca

The point where the land ends and the sea begins. Immortalized in the famous words of Portugal’s greatest poet, Luís Vaz de Camões, Cape Roca impresses all who visit.

Pavilion of Knowledge

The Pavilion of Knowledge - Ciência Viva is an interactive science and technology museum, aims to stimulate scientific knowledge and promote scientific culture among all citizens.

Beach

Caparica/Cascais/Sintra

Museums & Monuments

VASCO DA GAMA BRIDGE

The Vasco da Gama is one of the two bridges that span the Tagus River in Lisbon. It is 12.345 kilometers long making it the second longest bridge in Europe after the Crimean Bridge, and the longest entirely in Europe. It was built to reduce the congestion on Lisbon's 25 de Abril Bridge.

The 25 de April bridge was called Ponte Salazar

One of the main connections between Lisbon and the South Bank is the 25 de Abril Bridge. But did you know that initially that wasn't the road name? The bridge used to be called The Salazar Bridge in honor of the dictator who was decades ahead of power.

The bridge was inaugurated in 1966, and its name was changed after the 1974 Revolution to honor the event that promoted freedom in the country. Since then, the renamed bridge is known to everyone as the April 25 Bridge, the date that marks the Carnation Revolution.

TORRE DE BELEM

Belém Tower, officially the Tower of Saint Vincent is a 16th-century fortification located in Lisbon that served as a point of boarding for Portuguese explorers and as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. The structure was built from lioz limestone and is composed of a 30-metre, four-storey tower. It's construction was ordered by King Manuel I of Portugal, and the building was finished in 1519.

Ajuda National Palace

The Ajuda National Palace was the official royal house in the second half of the 19th century. It presents authentic interiors and important art collections.

Basílica da Estrela

One of the most impressive and attractive churches in Lisbon. Take some time to admire this impressive piece of architecture and discover the surrounding area.

S. Jorge's Castle

Given its outstanding location, a highlight of the Castelo de São Jorge is its many viewpoints affording majestic and unparalleled views of Lisbon.

Cristo Rei

Cross the river and discover one of the most impressive views of Lisbon. The Santuário do Cristo-Rei is a place of peace and gives you a unique panoramic view of the entire Lisbon region.

Jerónimos Monastery

The Jerónimos Monastery was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.This notable 16th century work of architecture became part of Portuguese identity and culture.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

One of the most recent monuments in Lisbon is an ode to the history of Portugal. Come and visit it and make your own discoveries.

Traditional Food

We are going to present some traditional foods from Portugal.

Cod with cream, octopus à lagareiro, sausage, feijoada, duck rice, broth, grilled sardines, francesinha, custard tart, these are some typical foods here in Portugal.

There are several types of cod for example: cod à brás, cod à Gomes de Sá and cod in the oven with roasted potatoes.

These are the foods you can find here in Portugal all over the country.

Credits:

Criado com uma imagem de Walkerssk - "lisbon tram the lisbon tram"