What is the Lisbon District?

The Lisbon District is an administrative area of Portugal. It is divided into 19 municipalities, with an area of 1,820 square kilometres and a population of nearly 3 million. It’s the most populated region in the country and it’s home to the nation’s capital, Lisbon. The district’s economy is supported by the service sector, which employs more than 70% of its people. Tourism is also a major contributor to its overall GDP.

The district was created in 1986 and at the time was one of the 16 administrative divisions in Portugal. In 2012 all 16 districts were abolished, and instead Lisbon is considered one of the seven regions of Portugal that make up the autonomous regions, or NUTS II areas. It is currently divided into 19 municipalities: Amadora, Almada, Barcarena, Cascais, Linda-a-Velha, Loures, Mafra, Odivelas, Oeiras, Sintra, Sobral de Monte Agraço, Vila Franca de Xira and Vila Nova de Gaia.

Some of the popular tourist attractions in the region include Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, Sintra Cultural Landscape, Pena Palace and the Carcava-de-Deus Oceanarium while some of the festivals celebrated in the Lisbon District include Festa de Santo Antonio (St. Anthony’ Day Festival), Festa de Sao Joao (Saint John’s Festival) and Festa de Santos Populares (Popular Saint’s Festival).

As a major tourist destination, Lisbon District has something for everyone. There are a number of landmarks to explore such as Castelo de Sao Jorge and Torre de Belem. For those looking for cultural experiences, there are numerous architectural monuments, museums and galleries such as the National Museum of Ancient Art and Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. Art and music lovers can explore the city’s thriving music and theatre scenes. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the picturesque views at Parque Natural de Sintra-Cascais. Shopping enthusiasts can sample Portuguese artisan products at Time Out Market or at Mercado da Ribeira. Foodies can savor delicious seafood and regional delicacies at Time Out Food Market or Lisbon’s bustling restaurants.

LAregion also offers excellent options for outdoor activities such as surfing, sailing, fishing as well as hiking and biking on trails such as Tapada Nacional de Mafra and Trilho dos Sete Montes. There are plenty of parks to explore such as Parque Eduardo VII and the breathtaking botanical gardens inside Parque da Estufa Fria. Golf enthusiasts can hit the green at Estoril Golf or Oitavos Dunes.

Thanks to its unique combination of architectural treasures, cultural attractions and outdoor activities in a charming Mediterranean setting, anyone visiting Lisbon will definitely experience an unforgettable time. To get more information about Lisbon District, please visit visitportugal.com.

An Insider’s Guide to the Lisbon District, Portugal

The Lisbon District is the capital city of Portugal, famed for its architecture, seafood, colorful streets, and lively culture. The city is one of the oldest in Europe, and it has a vast history that is well worth exploring. Here’s a comprehensive insider’s guide to help you make the best of your trip to Lisbon.

Local Attractions to Visit

When visiting Lisbon, there are a few local attractions you cannot afford to miss. These are:

Belem Tower

A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Portugal’s most iconic symbols, the Belem Tower, is a fortified tower that was built during the Portuguese Golden age to protect the city.

Jeronimos Monastery

This edifice is the most celebrated symbol of Portugal’s power and wealth during its Age of Discovery. This monastery was classified as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO and is known as one of Lisbon’s most significant landmarks.

Castelo de S. Jorg

The Castle of Saint George is a medieval fortress occupying an elevated hilltop with fantastic views overlooking Lisbon. This castle has a vast history, and a visit here is like a journey back in time.

The Best Dining Spots in Lisbon

As a food-lover, you cannot miss out on trying some of Lisbon’s delicacies. The Lisbon food scene is vast and has something for everyone. Here are the three most recommended dining spots:

Cervejaria Ramiro

A local institution famous for its seafood and shellfish, a meal at Cervejaria Ramiro is considered by many to be an unavoidable part of any trip to Lisbon.

The Decadente

If you are looking for something trendy with a twist, Decadente may be the spot for you. This restaurant serves up contemporary Portuguese cuisine, combining fresh local flavors with global inspiration.

Tasca da Esquina

This restaurant is a modern take on the traditional tavern and serves up some of Lisbon’s best cuisine. The menu is created by three award-winning chefs who combine the freshest local ingredients with their creativity to produce fantastic dishes.

Experiencing Lisbon’s Culture

Exploring the city’s cultural side is a must when visiting Lisbon. Here are some cultural experiences to try:

Listen to Fado Music

Fado is Portugal’s musical genre that is characterized by melancholy tunes and poetry. If you are looking to experience the traditional Portuguese culture, listening to Fado music is the way to go.

Explore Alfama

Alfama is one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, currently famous for its winding streets, beautiful architecture, shops, and cafes. The area is the perfect place to get a feel of the city’s past. One way to explore Alfama is to go on a walking tour.

Visit the National Museum of Ancient Art

Lisbon is awash with museums, but one of the must-visit museums is the National Museum of Ancient Art. Here you will find the country’s largest collection of historical pieces from ancient Greek artifacts to works by Hieronymus Bosch.

Local History to Learn About

To fully appreciate Lisbon’s culture and way of life, a basic knowledge of the city’s rich history is required. Here are three historical sites to visit:

Torre de Belem

The Belem Tower was built as a fortress in the 16th century, and it played a critical role in Portugal’s Age of Discovery. It is now classified as a World Heritage site by UNESCO and is one of Lisbon’s most formidable landmarks.

Aqueduct of Free Waters

The free water aqueduct was built in the 18th century to provide clean water to the city’s inhabitants. The impressive structure spans 58-kilometers and is a superb example of the Manueline architectural style.

Cathedral of Lisbon

The cathedral is a true gem, and its mixed architectural style reflects the many doubts surrounding its construction date. It was built between the twelfth and sixteenth centuries and has been modified and reconstructed multiple times.

Off the Beaten Path Suggestions

If you are the kind of person looking to explore Lisbon’s unexplored areas, here are three suggestions for off the beaten path sites to visit:

Quinta das Conchas

A 24hectare park located in the middle of Lisbon, Quinta das Conchas is a great place to go if you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It features an artificial lake, a playground, a picnic area, and a soccer court.

MAAT Museum

The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology-Maat, opened in 2016. It is one of Lisbon’s newest museums and showcases contemporary art and technology. It is a magnificent architectural concept, engaging visitors in a dialogue between the city and the river.

Park Bar

If you want to experience Lisbon’s nightlife, Park Bar is the ideal spot for you. This rooftop bar is situated at the top of a car park and is known for its great views of the city and chilled-out vibe.

Conclusion

Lisbon is a fantastic city with something for everyone. Combining a rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly locals makes Lisbon the ideal destination for anyone seeking an adventure. Whether you are looking to explore the most celebrated attractions or experience the local scene, Lisbon will not disappoint.