Ideal for active holidaymakers in search of a city-based holiday, Lisbon is perhaps one of the best tourist destinations in Europe where past and present, old and new stand side by side in harmony.
Blessed with mild and temperate climate, historical charm, fascinating old quarters, energetic nightlife scene, beautiful churches, gorgeous beaches, stunning resorts featuring modern facilities, charming inns and taverns and a wealth of restaurants ready to satisfy your palate with excellent dining options, Lisbon is a truly unique place to spend an unforgettable holiday. From romantic couples, to families with kids, to sport lovers, there is something for everyone in this cosmopolitan city.
Many travelers are really amazed by the number of attractions and ‘things to do’ Lisbon has to offer. If you want to enjoy breathtakingly beautiful countryside, historic monuments and picturesque resorts, the sophisticated and delightful area of Lisbon Coast is the right place. Summer home to European royalty for centuries, Lisbon Coast is not only an architecturally stunning city but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top Lisbon Coast places of interest include the older town of Sintra — once the summer retreat of Portuguese kings, where you can see Palácio Nacional, Parque da Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, Castelo dos Mouros, Museu do Brinquedo; the town of Cascais – once a small fishing port and today the dormitory of the Lisbon international working community, boasting sophisticated nightlife, outstanding palaces, like Palácio de Conde de Castro Guimarães and other pre-historic finds; and Estoril – renowned worldwide as an important tourist spot, famous for its casinos, golf courses, Verdades-Farias Museum, beautiful Santo António Church and 3 to 5 star luxury resorts, including Hotel Atlantis, Hotel Palacio and Sana Estoril.
To the east of the city is the famous district of Alfama – the historical soul and the oldest part of Lisbon featuring magnificent panoramas over the city, a medieval maze of narrow cobbled streets lined with closely packed houses and a plethora of markets, cafes and bars. Much loved by camera-carrying tourists, this is a truly unique place to have a night out.
Lisbon Beaches
Lisbon beaches are very popular among tourists and locals alike and your trip to Lisbon will not be complete without a visit to any of them. Filled with sheltered coves and miles of sandy dunes, Lisbon Beaches are known for fun, sun and relaxation. They come with various categories (secluded, family, party beaches and sporty beaches), each featuring a different experience. Although here the waters are not as warm as can be found in the southern part of Portugal, Lisbon beaches never fail to amaze beach lovers.
Here are some of the most popular beaches that are worth a visit. Carcavelos Beach is perhaps the most remarkable beach in Lisbon and can be reached by bus or car. The beach bars and pubs simply teem with a lively young crowd and the loud music continues till very late in the night. Nearly 15 km away from Lisbon, Guincho Beach is another famous spot in Lisbon and one of the best beaches in Europe for windsurfing. Other not-to-be-missed beaches include Costa da Caparica Beach, Praia da Adraga and Lagoa de Albufeira.
From observing an odyssey of sea creatures in a state-of-the-art aquarium to exploring magnificent World Heritage architectural marvels or climbing spectacular hills, in Lisbon you are guaranteed a worry-free vacation to remember forever!
