European Cities · Destination Guide
Lisbon
Portugal
Lisbon has become one of Europe's most talked-about city break destinations over the past decade, and it fully deserves the attention. Hilly, sun-drenched and full of character, it combines a fascinating history with a genuinely vibrant food and culture scene. The light here is extraordinary, particularly in the late afternoon, and the city's tiled facades, called azulejos, make even an ordinary back street look like a work of art.
Compared to Paris or Rome, Lisbon still feels slightly under-discovered, which is part of its charm. It rewards those who take the time to explore beyond the main sights.
Alfama, the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon, is the most atmospheric place to stay. Narrow cobbled streets wind up to the Castelo de Sao Jorge, with spectacular views over the city and the Tagus river. Bairro Alto and Chiado are the most central and lively areas, full of independent shops, excellent restaurants and the famous rooftop bars known as miradouros. For something quieter, the neighbourhood of Principe Real is elegant, leafy and full of boutique hotels.
Ride the famous Tram 28 through Alfama. Climb to the Castelo de Sao Jorge for the best panoramic views in the city. Visit the Torre de Belem and the magnificent Jeronimos Monastery in the riverside neighbourhood of Belem, and stop at the famous Pasteis de Belem bakery for the original pasteis de nata, warm from the oven with cinnamon and icing sugar.
A day trip to Sintra, just forty minutes by train, is one of the finest excursions in Portugal. Palaces in extraordinary colours nestled into forested hills, including the extraordinary Pena Palace and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira with its initiation well.
Lisbon's food scene has transformed in the last decade. From traditional tascas serving bacalhau to exciting new restaurants reinterpreting Portuguese cuisine, the city is a genuinely great place to eat.
March to May and September to November are ideal. Lisbon has a mild climate year-round, but summer can be very hot and increasingly crowded. Christmas in Lisbon is underrated and the city is beautifully lit without the extreme tourist pressure of the summer months.
Direct flights from UK airports throughout the year, with journey times of approximately two and a half hours. The airport is just a short metro ride from the city centre.
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