Lisbon city guide: Why Portugal's capital is this year's trendiest spot for a weekend break
It’s said to be one of the oldest cities in the world and according to legend Lisbon was founded by Ulysses on his journey back from the Trojan War.
It has now been chosen by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s top ten cities to see in 2017.
Visitors will fall in love with the views from the picturesque harbour and happily lose themselves in the maze of pastel-washed streets.
The working city is bustling with life, yet still manages to have an uncrowded feel. If you’re looking for an affordable weekend of fascinating culture, tasty cuisine, a Mediterranean climate and therapeutic sea air, leap over to Lisbon.
WHERE TO STAY
To get to the heart of Lisbon’s shabby-chic charm, check into one of the hotels in Estrela or Alfama. Boutique hotel Palacio Ramalhete in Estrela is housed in an 18th Century palace, has a heated outdoor pool and spacious rooms. After you’ve filled up on its banquet-style breakfasts you won’t need to stop for lunch (palacio-ramalhete.com). B&B starts at £136 a night through Booking.com.
WHAT TO SEE
Don’t leave without seeing the Torre de Belém. The Gothic tower, built in the 16th century to guard the harbour, is one of the country’s most famous monuments and a UNESCO world heritage site (www.torrebelem.pt). Take a walk round historic Rossio Square. It’s a good spot for people-watching over a coffee in one of the cafes. For panoramic views head up to hilltop Sao Jorge Castle overlooking the Tagus river. Meander through the maze of narrow streets in the Alfama District, the city’s oldest neighbourhood.
FOODIE HEAVEN
Trawl the food stalls at the Time Out Market on the Av. de Julho – some are from Portugal’s best restaurants, including two with Michelin stars. For excellent seafood, take a pew at the Marisqueira Azul counter and order the grilled octopus salad.
Alternatively, wander into Belém and be prepared to queue at world-renowned bakery Pasteis de Belém which is credited with the creation of the Portuguese tart. Once you’ve tasted one of these warm custard treats – pasteis de nata – you’ll know it was worth the wait.
ON THE CHEAP
Restaurant Lumar (Rua do Conde 5) in the Estrela neighbourhood is popular with locals – always a good sign. It may look like someone’s living room, but you’ll be fed some of the best home-cooked fish and meat for a very affordable price. My tip is don’t refuse the charismatic owner’s ‘digestif’ offer – the sour cherry liqueur rounds off the meal nicely.
FURTHER AFIELD
Just a 40-minute train ride from the hustle and bustle is beautiful mountain town Sintra. It’s worth tackling the walk up steep pathways for glorious views and to explore the 20th century estate Quinta da Regaleira, or you can just enjoy lunch in the little village below. On your way back down, pick up a bottle of white port – a local speciality – from a gift shop.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Opened in October, The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology – MAAT is a stunning new addition to Lisbon’s raft of top museums. The undulating tile-covered building – an architectural icon in itself – allows visitors to walk over it to a connecting waterside promenade. More galleries and a restaurant are set to open next month (maat.pt).
GOOD TO KNOW
There’s a tourist tax of one euro per night charged to visitors arriving by air or sea.
GETTING AROUND
The city’s 24 districts are linked by trams and buses. Pick up a timetable from your hotel. But taxis aren’t expensive.
GETTING THERE
Airlines which fly direct from the UK to Lisbon include British Airways (ba.com), easyJet (easyjet.com), TAP Portugal (flytap.com) and Ryanair (ryanair.com).
MORE INFO From visitlisboa.com, visitportugal.com
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