Explore Portugal’s scenic capital
From its postcard-pretty streets to its nostalgic charm, heavenly custard tarts to its wonderfully fresh seafood, Lisbon is ideal for a weekend break or a city meets beach fly-drive. Squeeze in the cultural highlights of this charming metropolis, from architectural castle marvels, rolling hills and waterfronts, to tantalising foodie bites.
As you’ll soon realise, Lisbon is a hilly city – and every rooftop offers a complex, multi-layered view of hilltop castles, hidden churches and twisting alleyways. Easily the most charming, picture-perfect part of Lisbon is Alfama a maze of steep narrow, cobbled streets that wind up the hill from the Tejo estuary to the castle at the top. Of course, you could hop on the number 28 bus all the way – the streets are quite the workout – but you’ll miss the joy of getting lost in the backstreets and stopping to admire the view from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Go with a charged camera in hand because there’s no shortage of photo opportunities around here.
Find a view to catch a fiery sunset and listen out for soulful fado music as darkness falls. Venture to historical São Jorge Castle, then make tracks to the futuristic Parque das Nações. Learn about the Monastery of Jerónimos and gaze up at its beautiful architecture. Listen to live fado music in the evenings and sip on local cherry liqueur, before tucking in at one of our Lisbon hotels. Book flights to Lisbon and discover a city brimming with pastel-coloured baroque palaces and grandiose squares – then venture along Lisbon’s scenic coast.