Once the bustling hub of a seafaring nation that pioneered trading on the open seas, Lisbon is now a bustling European metropolis full of colour and culture, combining coastal vistas with the comforts of urban living.
This is a city that combines old-world charm with modern energy, and there’s no better way to explore its hilly streets and expansive vistas than on a free walking tour of Lisbon.
Coastal Heritage and Maritime History
Lisbon is a city that once held a hugely important role in naval exploration and trading during the Age of Discoveries. The port city was a launching point for esteemed explorers like Vasco de Gama, who would go on to chart trade routes all the way to India and further afield still.
Home to such a storied maritime heritage, Lisbon’s present-day culture reflects this connection with the open sea. From sumptuous seafood to maritime architecture and monuments, the city provides unique insights into Europe’s role in the exploration of the world as we know it today.
In the Belém district for example, you’ll find the Belém Tower which stands as a monument to the city’s maritime past. Rising from the Tagus River, this 16th century tower was built to protect the harbour.
A short walk away, you’ll also find Jerónimos Monastery, which was built in the Manueline style and features maritime influences in its late Gothic design.
Home to Vibrant Neighbourhoods
Like many European cities, Lisbon boasts a number of different neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character.
The title of oldest district in the city belongs to The Alfama, which is characterised by a labyrinth of narrow streets and charming squares tucked away as if reserved only for those who venture off the beaten path.
It’s here that you’ll be serenaded with the melancholy sounds of Fado music coming from the many lively bars and treated to bright colours across the many azulejo tiles Portugal is known for.
If you’re looking for more nightlife, the Bairro Alto is the place to be once night falls. Full of bars and boutiques, this is the neighbourhood to head to when you want to unwind after a long day of sightseeing with a bite to eat and a drink or two.
Baixa is in the heart of the city, and therefore home to some of the best squares and shopping in Lisbon. Once levelled by an earthquake in the 18th century, Baixa was rebuilt from the ground up by the Marquis of Pombal, and still houses a mix of monuments and plazas.
World-Class Gastronomy
While Portuguese food might not be recognised on the same level as Italian or French cuisine, it’s enjoyed by many due to its simplicity and freshness, which focus on the best ingredients.
As you might imagine, the food scene is Lisbon dominated by seafood due to its strategic location on the Atlantic ocean.
When you’re in the city, don’t miss out on the “bacalhau”, Portugal’s take on salted cod, or the iconic “pastel de nata”, a creamy custard tart. For the latter, head to Pastéis de Belém, which makes the national sweet treat using the original recipe from 1837.
The best places to go to sample Portuguese cuisine are the local taverns which will serve up everything from Portuguese tapas to set menus.
If you’re looking for a truly authentic experience try “O Velho Eurico”, a local spot so popular in the city that you’ll often find queues forming to sample the restaurant’s blend of classic and modern dishes.
For something a little more experimental and an experience for your taste buds, try “Ofício Tasco Atípico” (if you can get a reservation).
Sights and Experiences in Lisbon
If you’re wondering what to see and do after you’ve filled up on local cuisine, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Castle of São Jorge. With impressive vistas over the city and the expansive ocean beyond, no trip to Lisbon is complete without a trek up to the castle to take in the beauty of the city.
The city offers another way of reaching higher ground if you’re not up to the walk, with its iconic Santa Justa elevator, which begins in the downtown district and serves up fantastic views of the city.
The iconic tram of Lisbon is another unique way to get around the city, and the no. 28, with its striking yellow exterior, is an excellent option.
Lisbon: Maritime Influence From Past to Present
Lisbon is the perfect getaway for a European city break, and as Europe’s Atlantic Gateway to culture and cuisine, there’s so much here to enjoy.
Strolling around the narrow streets, enjoying the ocean vistas from high above the city, and sampling the maritime flavours of Portuguese cuisine are some of the simple pleasures you can enjoy in this laidback metropolis.
