Lisbon District: What to Know Before Your Visit

The city of Lisbon, Portugal is a vibrant and culturally rich destination, and there are plenty of things to see and do in the capital region. But one of the best things you can do when visiting Lisbon is to explore the various Lisbon districts. Each district has its own unique culture and attractions, and each has something special to offer visitors. So whether you’re looking for history, culture, or simply a great time, here is what you should know about Lisbon District before your visit.

Lisbon Districts Overview

Lisbon is divided into seven main districts – Alcântara, Areeiro, Belém, Campo de Ourique, Estrela, Graça, and Lapa. Each district is filled with plenty of attractions, sights, and activities to suit any traveler’s preferences. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect in each district:

Alcântara

Alcântara is one of Lisbon’s most popular districts, as it is home to many of the city’s famous tourist attractions. This district has a long history, and it’s filled with plenty of interesting architecture, as well as numerous parks and gardens. Further attractions in Alcântara include the Monument to the Discoveries, the Jardim da Estrela, and Belém Tower.

Areeiro

The Areeiro district is located in the central quarters of Lisbon, and it is largely considered one of the city’s most beautiful areas. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs open until late at night. This area also features some of Lisbon’s most renowned restaurants, as well as many historic sites.

Belém

The Belém district is located just outside of Lisbon’s central quarters and is renowned for its historical monuments and cultural attractions. Here you’ll find the Discoveries Monument and Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos – a monument built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s journey to India. Several museums are also located in this district.

Campo de Ourique

The Campo de Ourique district is located in the eastern part of Lisbon and is often considered to be one of the city’s most charming districts. This area features several well-preserved traditional Portuguese houses that are now used as homes and shops. There are also many entertainment venues to be found here; the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Saúde is a popular destination.

Estrela

The Estrela district is located in western Lisbon and offers plenty of attractions for visitors interested in local culture and history. Here you can find the Estrela Basilica and Salazar Park – which date back to 17th century – as well as several traditional Portuguese restaurants. The Museum of Natural History can also be found in this district.

Graça

 
Graça is one of Lisbon’s oldest districts, as it has roots dating back to the 12th-century. The region is well-known for its traditional religious sites, such as the Church of Graça and the San Roque Church. Further attractions include viewpoints such as Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia, both offering stunning panoramic views over the district.

Lapa

 
The Lapa district is located in western Lisbon and offers plenty of attractions for those looking to immerse themselves in Portuguese culture. This area is home to numerous art galleries, traditional restaurants, and cafés that locals frequent on a daily basis. It’s also home to Rio Tejo, which provides a peaceful spot to admire the river’s many boats which pass by often.

What to Do In Each District

Now that you know more about each of Lisbon districts let’s look at alist of activities available there:

• Alcântara – enjoy a stroll through the lively streets surrounded by historic monuments such as the Monument to the Discoveries, the Jardim da Estrela, or Belém Tower.
• Areeiro – take part in Lisbon’s bustling nightlife by visiting some of its best bars, clubs and restaurants.
• Belém – explore some of the city’s most iconic historical sites such as the Discoveries Monument or Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery.
• Campo de Ourique – relish on past memories by visiting some of its traditional Portuguese houses that are now used as homes and shops.
• Estrela – learn more about Portuguese culture by visiting attractions such as the Estrela Basilica or Salazar Park.
• Graça – discover some of Lisbon’s oldest sites such as Church of Graça and the San Roque Church.
• Lapa – observe local culture by visitingan art gallery or admiring views from viewpoints like Portas do Sol or Miradouro de Santa Luzia.

Bottom Line

Visiting Lisbon districts is an essential part of any trip to Lisbon as each one provides an insight into Portuguese culture and history. Whether you want to experience its vibrant nightlife or take in some stunning views from designated viewpoints, there is an attraction for everyone in each district. To get a full feeling of this beautiful country make sure to explore each district during your stay. For further information on visiting the seven districts of Lisbon make sure to check out Visit Lisboa, where you will find a full list of attractions available in each district.