The Best Attractions In Lisbon

Lisbon is a city built on the seven hills of the Tagus River estuary in Portugal. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with its cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and vibrant street life. The city has been a center of commerce and culture for centuries, and today it’s a bustling metropolis with a thriving artistic community and a vibrant nightlife. Lisbon offers something for everyone, from historical sites to modern architecture to world-class museums and galleries.

History of Lisbon

Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal since 1255, and it has been the center of Portuguese culture and politics since that time. It has been a major port city since the 16th century, and it was an important trading center for the Age of Exploration. In 1755, Lisbon was devastated by a massive earthquake, and much of the city was destroyed. The city was rebuilt in the neoclassical style, and it has been a popular tourist destination ever since.

Things to Do in Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do. Here are some of the best attractions in Lisbon:

1. Castelo de Sao Jorge

The Castelo de Sao Jorge is a medieval castle in Lisbon that was built in the 11th century. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lisbon, and it provides stunning views of the city. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds and climb to its highest point for a breathtaking view of Lisbon’s skyline.

2. Jeronimos Monastery

The Jeronimos Monastery is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. This 16th-century monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most ornate examples of Manueline architecture in the world. Visitors can explore the ornate chapel and cloisters and admire the intricate stone carvings and decorations.

3. Belem Tower

The Belem Tower is a 16th-century fortification located on the banks of the Tagus River. It is one of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks, and it has become a symbol of the city. Visitors can explore the tower’s grounds and climb to the top for panoramic views of Lisbon.

4. National Azulejo Museum

The National Azulejo Museum is dedicated to Portugal’s traditional azulejo tiles. The museum houses a large collection of azulejos from the 16th century to the present day. Visitors can explore the history of Portuguese tile art and admire some of the most beautiful examples of this unique art form.

5. Alfama District

The Alfama district is one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, and it is a great place to explore on foot. The streets are lined with colorful houses, historic churches, and vibrant restaurants. Visitors can explore the labyrinthine streets and soak up the atmosphere of this charming district.

6. Elevador de Santa Justa

The Elevador de Santa Justa is an iconic 19th-century elevator located in central Lisbon. The elevator takes passengers up to one of the city’s highest points, where they can admire views of Lisbon from the observation deck. Visitors can also explore the elevator’s neo-Gothic interiors and admire its ornate ironwork.

7. LX Factory

The LX Factory is a creative space located in an old industrial complex in Lisbon. It is home to art galleries, creative businesses, and trendy restaurants. Visitors can explore this vibrant space and admire its unique street art and graffiti.

Popular Tours in Lisbon

In addition to these attractions, there are many popular tours available in Lisbon. Here are two tours that offer unique experiences:

Lisbon City Sightseeing Tour

The Lisbon City Sightseeing Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore some of Lisbon’s most iconic sights. The tour takes visitors past monuments such as Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and Castelo de Sao Jorge. The tour also takes visitors through some of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, where they can admire colorful houses and narrow streets. The tour ends with a trip to the observation deck of Elevador de Santa Justa for panoramic views of the city. This tour provides an excellent introduction to Lisbon and its history. You can book this tour here.

Lisbon Gourmet Food Tour

The Lisbon Gourmet Food Tour offers visitors an opportunity to sample some of Portugal’s finest cuisine. This tour takes visitors through some of Lisbon’s most iconic eateries, from traditional restaurants to trendy cafes. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as pastel de nata (custard tarts) and bacalhau (codfish). This tour provides an excellent introduction to Portuguese cuisine and its unique flavors and ingredients. You can book this tour here.

Conclusion

Lisbon is an exciting destination with plenty to offer visitors. From historical sites to modern attractions, there are plenty of sights to explore in this vibrant city. Lisbon also offers plenty of unique experiences, from tasting local cuisine to admiring street art and graffiti in LX Factory. There are also many popular tours available in Lisbon, such as the Lisbon City Sightseeing Tour and the Lisbon Gourmet Food Tour, which offer visitors unique experiences that provide an excellent introduction to this beautiful city.