Lisbon

Lisbon, once at the centre of Europe’s great maritime history, is a city with a vibrant culture, stunning architecture and friendly inhabitants. The city has recently been given a face-lift and is now a popular tourist destination.

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest district and is best known for Saint George Castle (Castelo de Sao Jorge), located high up in the hill of the same name. The Romanesque cathedral is the area’s most important building and features some stunning architecture. Baixa, Lisbon’s old centre, was rebuilt after an earthquake in 1755. It is made up of wide avenues in which alfresco cafés and shops are housed.

After dark, the Bairro Alto area really bursts into life, with numerous restaurants, bars, street stalls and nightclubs. The Café a Brasileira has a great atmosphere and a history of visiting artists and writers. The garden of Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara enjoys the finest views of the city.

Just a short drive away from Lisbon is the town of Belem. There are two notable monuments here that symbolise Portugal’s past glory in maritime discovery and trade. The Torre de Belem and the Monument to the Discoveries both depict Portugal’s proud history. In this area you will also find the 15^th century monastery, Mosteiro dos Jeronimos. It is a masterpiece of design and one of Lisbon’s greatest surviving treasures.

In the town of Cacilhas, there is a smaller version of the famous giant statue of Jesus that soars above Brazil. Although not as notable as the Brazilian statue, it does draw the crowds and is worth a visit.

Sintra, a World Heritage site, is only a 45-minute drive to the west of Lisbon. Once the favoured destination of nobility and famous writers such as Lord Byron, the area is set against a wonderful backdrop of hills. The main attraction in the area is the Palacio Nacional da Pena, a strange castle built by King Ferdinand in the 19^th century.

Lisbon International Airport is Portugal’s busiest airport and acts both as a gateway to the country and as a stopping point on trips to many Asian and Middle-Eastern destinations. You can hire a car at the airport, or use public transportation options such as buses and trains.