Portugal’s capital city is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Bursting with culture, great places to eat, sleep and party (and it’s affordable!) – there’s plenty to experience in the city. Best of all, it’s generally regarded that it takes three days to fully discover the city – perfect for your weekend getaway!
Here are some of our favourite not-to-miss Lisbon experiences:
São Jorge Castle
Standing above central Lisbon, Castelo de Sao Jorge (Lisbon Castle) was the ancient seat of power for Portugal for over 400 years. With over 1000 years of history, the castle is a must-see for any visitor.
Go Live It Tip: Don’t forget to take your camera – the castle grounds offer 360-degree views of the city.
Go for a tram ride
Being a hilly city, it’s not surprising that your feet may start to ache. Use this to your advantage, and ride on one of Lisbon’s iconic trams.
Go Live It Tip: Use the trams to travel around Lisbon’s more hilly districts!
Venture around the Alfama Neighbourhood
Venture off the tourist trail and spend time wandering the cobblestone alleyways of Lisbon’s oldest district, Alfama.
Go Live It Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for cool street art, Azulejo tiles and quaint little bars and cafes.
Belem Tower
Along the banks of the river in the Belem neighborhood sits the Tower of Belem. The tower once stood in the centre of the Tagus estuary to guard the city from attack, however the waters shifted and it now sits along the banks of the river.
Go Live It Tip: Try to visit early in the day – queues tend to gather quickly later in the day.
Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT)
Whether you’re a museum person or not, you’ll appreciate the modern Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT). If interested, you can go inside and spend hours wandering through the exhibits. If museums aren’t your thing, you can still enjoy the building itself and climb the stairs to the roof for views of the river.
Go Live It Tip: Grab a bite to eat from the Pastéis de Belém bakery across the road and take it with you to the MAAT rooftop to enjoy as you take in the views of the river.
Visit the world’s oldest bookstore
Did you know: Lisbon is home to the oldest bookstore in operation?! Located on Rua Garrett 73, Bertrand Bookshop was first built in 1732, but underwent reconstruction along with the rest of the city in 1755 following the Great Earthquake. You can find Portuguese classics and English-language literature here.
Interested in exploring Portugal’s capital? Check out a Globus or Cosmos tour through Portugal today!
