Lisbon is fast becoming known as THE city. Steeped in the historical charm of Rome, the ethereal romanticism of Paris and the pristinely clean streets of Denmark, it is clear to see why it’s becoming a favourite on the ones-to-watch list…
Here’s your ultimate guide to Lisbon…
To get there
Monarch, the scheduled leisure airline, operates year round flights to Lisbon from Birmingham, London Gatwick and Manchester airports with fares, including taxes, from £42 one way (£76return). For further information or to book Monarch flights or Monarch Holidays please visit www.monarch.co.uk
To Stay – In the city centre
If you are looking for a Hotel close enough to the heart of the action without being right in the thick of it, look no further than the Four Seasons Ritz Hotel. A twenty-five-minute walk past rows of designer shops to the centre, it offers the best of both worlds in the city. It is grand and sumptuous, with marble adorning, a rooftop running track, a spa looking over the city and a champagne brunch you’ll never forget. Find out more here…
To Stay – For a poolside retreat
Nestled in the heart of the Sintra countryside and a half hour drive from Lisbon city centre, is the Penga Longa Resort. With breathtaking views over the lush countryside, two infinity pools and a Michelin starred restaurant it offers the ultimate in relaxation. One of the most stunning resorts in Portugal it is close enough to offer taxi rides to the city, but also offers a perfect pool holiday for rejuvenation and that extra special dash of TLC. Find out more here…
To Eat – For a light bite and a great atmosphere
There are so many places in Lisbon to eat and drink that even if you’re staying in an all-inclusive Hotel we would suggest you head out a few nights and try the local cuisine.
One of the best things about the culture in Lisbon is how relaxed it is. One of our favourite dining destinations for a casual bite in the evening was one of the cities kiosks. Now, these aren’t the same as in the UK as a last minute bid for commuters to grab something on the way home, they are civilised eatery spots in some of the cities most picturesque locations. As well as sandwiches, soups, hot dogs and desserts, they serve a range of hot and cold drinks including alcoholic beverages for very reasonable pricing. A glass of wine is around two euros and beer 1 euro 50. They play music deep into the night and offer a perfect location for a chilled evening to soak up the atmosphere.
To eat – to sample the tastes of Portugal
When in Lisbon you have to head to Time Out Market. With 35 kiosks offering a whole range of regional specialities, it’s a great chance to sample the local cuisine. From sheep’s cheese to custard tarts, you are guaranteed to find something new to find and fall in love with. The cocktail bar offers a myriad of yummy concoctions too, so sit on one of the high wooden benches and while away the hours in style.
To eat – For a 5* Experience
Cantinho do Avillez, Chiado is a fine-dining restaurant in the heart of the city. It oozes charm and warmth and delivers a five-star service without a hint of pretentiousness. Both the staff and the food go above and beyond expectations and with starters from around 5 Euros and mains around 17 Euros, it’s well worth it for a meal out you won’t forget in a hurry.
To Drink
Our favourite bar in Lisbon is situated in the NH Collection Lisboa Liberdade. With 360 degree views of the city, delicious cocktails from the internationally celebrated bartender Diego Cabrera and even a pool to cool down in, it’s the perfect respite from a day of wandering the streets of the city.
To Do
Before doing anything in Lisbon, be sure to purchase yourself a Lisboa Card. 18.50 Euros for 24 hours, 31.50 for 48 hours or just 39 euros for 72 hours, it offers free or discounted entrance to more than 80 Lisbon museums, sights, and tours, including the Jeronimos Monastery, the Belem Tower and the National Pantheon.
Your transport around the city is also free, because the Lisboa Card includes all trips on the Metro, public buses, the trams and the Elevadores, such as the Elevador de Santa Justa. You can purchase your card here.
Take a tram tour
If you are looking for a way to see the best of the city, be sure to head off on a tram tour. Starting at the main square of the city it takes you all up the hills and through some of the more traditional streets. Your ticket allows you to hop on and hop off, so it’s a great way to spend a day exploring the sights and sounds of Lisbon.
Visit Tourre de Belem
A UNESCO world heritage site, Tourre de Belem is one of Portugal’s most famous monuments. The Gothic tower was built to guard the entrance to the harbour and has some beautiful examples of Portuguese stonework dating from the 1500s. It’s great to explore and take in the historical element to Lisbon.
Visit the Pink Street
Exactly as it sounds, Lisbon’s Pink Street is a street that is painted entirely pink! Picturesque and great for photos, it’s also home to some fab bars and cafes. Be sure to head down, take some photos and stop for a cocktail!
Take time to just wander the streets
Turn off your Google maps and just wander the beautiful historic streets. You will find so much to see and do along the way, as well as discover so many hidden gems!
Other places to go:
- The Jeronimos Monastery
- The Santa Justa Elevator
- Palacio Nacional da Ajuda
- The National Pantheon
- The Tile (Azulejos) Museum
- Museu Nacional dos Coches
- Lisbon Metro
