Lisbon Holidays

Lisbon’s neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct character, are the heart and soul of the city. Begin your journey in Alfama, the oldest district, where the labyrinthine streets and alleys are lined with pastel-coloured houses and adorned with vibrant azulejos (ceramic tiles). Here, you can lose yourself in the echoes of Fado music emanating from tiny taverns or climb to the top of the Castelo de São Jorge for panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. A short walk away, you’ll find Bairro Alto, a bohemian quarter that comes alive at night. By day, explore its eclectic shops and charming cafés; by night, join the locals in one of the many bars or listen to live music in the bustling streets. For a more upscale experience, head to Chiado, Lisbon’s elegant shopping district, where historic bookshops and trendy boutiques rub shoulders with sophisticated restaurants and theatres.

Lisbon is a city where history and architecture converge in breathtaking fashion. Step back in time with a trip to the Belem Tower, a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Nearby, the Jerónimos Monastery is another must-see. This magnificent Manueline-style monastery, with its intricate carvings and grand cloisters, stands as a testament to the power of the Portuguese empire. For a taste of modern Lisbon, visit the Parque das Nações, home to the striking Vasco da Gama Bridge and the futuristic Lisbon Oceanarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world. The area, revitalized for Expo '98, offers a glimpse of the city’s contemporary side with its sleek architecture, vibrant art installations, and lively atmosphere.

Lisbon’s natural beauty is just as captivating as its urban attractions. Take a ride on the historic Tram 28 through the city’s hills to get a glimpse of its picturesque vistas. For those looking to escape the city bustle, a short trip to Sintra offers a fairy-tale landscape of lush forests and whimsical palaces, including the colourful Pena Palace and the mystical Quinta da Regaleira. With viewpoints scattered across the city, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the city's beauty on a holiday to Lisbon. Popular spots like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Miradouro de Santa Catarina offer stunning panoramas, especially at sunset when the city is bathed in a warm, golden light.

No visit to Lisbon would be complete without indulging in the city’s culinary treasures. Start with the iconic pastel de nata (custard tart) at Pastéis de Belém, where the recipe has been perfected since 1837. For a more substantial meal, explore the local markets such as Time Out Market in Mercado da Ribeira, where you can sample dishes from some of Lisbon’s top chefs. Lisbon’s cuisine is deeply rooted in its maritime history, so be sure to try fresh seafood like bacalhau (salted cod) or grilled sardines during the popular summer festivals. And for the drink connoisseurs, pair your meal with a glass of Vinho Verde or Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur beloved by locals.