Must See Sights In Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, lively city with a rich history and fascinating culture. Located in the Iberian Peninsula, this beautiful port city boasts a unique character that has attracted tourists from all over the world. As Portugal’s capital, it is home to some of the country’s most renowned attractions. From its stunning architecture to its inviting streets, here is a guide of must see sights in Lisbon.

History Of Lisbon

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, with evidence of settlement dating back to pre-Roman times. It was founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC. In the 5th century, the Romans took control and named it Felicitas Julia, which means ‘Happy City’. The Visigoths later occupied the city in the 6th century but were eventually defeated by the Moors in 711. The Moors occupied Lisbon for four centuries until they were defeated by the Portuguese in 1147.

The city was a major port during this period, and this established it as an important trading hub. During the Age of Discovery, Lisbon was a major port of call for Portuguese navigation and exploration, making it even more important to the economy. The city was heavily damaged by the Great Earthquake of 1755 and was rebuilt in a Neoclassical style. By the 19th century, it had become one of the largest cities in Europe with a population of over half a million people.

Today, Lisbon is a vibrant and modern city, with an estimated population of around 2.8 million people. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its unique culture, diverse cuisine, and beautiful architecture.

Things To Do In Lisbon

Lisbon is full of exciting things to do and see. Here are some of the must-see sights in Lisbon for first-time visitors:

The Castle Of St. George

The Castle of St. George is one of the most iconic landmarks in Lisbon and is also one of the oldest fortresses in Europe. Built on top of a hill overlooking the city, the castle dates back to medieval times and was used to protect the city from invaders. Nowadays, it is an important tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the city below. The castle is home to several museums as well as a garden with beautiful sculptures. Visitors can also explore its ancient walls and towers, or take part in one of its many events such as concerts or theatrical performances.

The Alfama District

The Alfama District is one of the most vibrant and colorful neighborhoods in Lisbon. It is home to a mix of old and new buildings, as well as churches, restaurants, and shops. The narrow streets of the district are filled with locals going about their daily lives and are also a great place to explore traditional Portuguese culture. Visitors can also take part in fado performances or explore nearby attractions such as the National Pantheon or Castelo de Sao Jorge.

The Belem Tower

The Belem Tower is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks and is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in 1519 for defensive purposes, but it has become an important symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. The tower is located on the banks of the Tagus River and offers stunning views of downtown Lisbon. Visitors can explore its interior, climb up its towers, or just admire its beautiful architecture from afar.

Sintra

Sintra is located just outside of Lisbon and is home to some of Portugal’s most stunning castles and palaces. It is also home to several historical monuments such as the National Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Pena Palace. Visitors can explore these monuments on their own or take part in one of several guided tours offered by local companies. Sintra is also home to some incredible gardens and natural landscapes that are perfect for a day trip from Lisbon.

Book A Guided Tour Of Lisbon

If you want to experience the best that Lisbon has to offer, then a guided tour may be your best bet. There are a variety of tours available that will give you an in-depth look at Lisbon’s history and culture. Many tours will also take you to some of Lisbon’s most popular sites such as Belem Tower, Sao Jorge Castle, or Sintra. Some tours will even take you to hidden gems such as hidden restaurants or secret viewpoints that are not accessible to tourists on their own. To book a guided tour of Lisbon, visit Viator.

Go On A Food Tour

Lisbon is home to some of Portugal’s best cuisine, so why not have a guided tour that will take you through some of its best restaurants? A food tour will give you an authentic taste of Portuguese cuisine as well as introduce you to some interesting local restaurants. You can experience traditional dishes such as bacalhau (salt cod) or pastel de nata (custard tart) as well as some modern fusion dishes that combine traditional ingredients with global flavors. To book a food tour in Lisbon, visit GetYourGuide.

Go On A Craft Beer Tour

Lisbon has become an important destination for craft beer lovers over the past few years, with a number of craft breweries popping up around the city. A craft beer tour will give you an opportunity to sample some of Portugal’s best craft beers while learning about how they’re made and why they’re so popular. You’ll also get to visit some local pubs and taprooms while getting an introduction to Lisbon’s craft beer scene. To book a craft beer tour in Lisbon, visit GetYourGuide.

Conclusion

Lisbon is an incredible city with lots to see and do. From its stunning architecture to its vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque port city. Whether you’re looking for historical sites or simply want to explore the city’s unique character on foot, there’s plenty to keep you busy in Lisbon. Don’t forget to take advantage of some of the great tours available that will introduce you to all that Lisbon has to offer!