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Top 7 things to do in Lisbon.
By Kirsten McCroskrie
Monday, 16th February 2015
 

Whether you are delving into history or exploring the ocean, there is plenty to discover in Portugal's exciting capital: 

With the Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop, Lisbon is an undeniably endearing city of crumbling limestone buildings and terracotta roofs.

Being Western Europe’s oldest city, Portugal’s capital has a fascinating past as is evident in the sheer amount of historic monuments, opulent churches and jam-packed museums that it has to offer.

On top of that, it is brimming with shops, bars and seafood restaurants, so whether you decide to mingle with the Lisboêtas in one of the city’s busy cafes or simply want to find a secluded spot to admire the sea views with a glass of port, you’ll no doubt be seduced by Lisbon’s laid-back feel that makes it a must-visit European city. 

1. Castelo de São Jorge

Dating back to the sixth century, Castelo de São Jorge’s eighteen towers sit proudly above the city. This fortification has survived sieges, wars and an earthquake and now holds the title of Lisbon’s most popular tourist attraction. Visitors can learn more about the city’s colourful past in the castle’s museum that is situated in its former palace or they can visit the Tower of Ulysses that houses a Camera Obscura periscope where they can view sights around the city. 

2. Berardo Museum

From Warhol to Picasso, this museum has a vast collection of modern art pieces curated by Portuguese businessman and art enthusiast Joe Berardo.  Several cities (Paris being among them) were interested in purchasing the collection but luckily the Portuguese government were adamant that it remained in Lisbon. With works from the likes of Salvador Dali and Francis Bacon, this extraordinary collection includes many of the 20th century’s most important artists and what’s more, it is free to visitors all year round.

3. Santa Justa Elevator

Despite looking like a set piece in a Tim Burton film, this wrought iron neo-gothic lift could be easily missed - hidden down a side street of one of Lisbon’s packed shopping streets, this iconic structure, is one of the city’s most interesting pieces of architecture. Its design was influenced by the Eiffel Tower and it serves to connect the lowest and the highest point of the city. Back in the good ol’ days of horse and carriage, it was a vital means of transporting goods and people through the city but nowadays its main appeal is the unbeatable panoramic views from the top. 

4. Alfama Neighbourhood

Veer off the beaten track and experience the atmospheric charm of Lisbon’s oldest quarter. It’s an area that feels incredibly lived in, with washing hanging from the balconies of its colourful buildings and children playing in the streets. In this neighbourhood you will discover some gorgeous churches and traditional tiled houses and it is the perfect place to take a break from the busy city centre to enjoy a sweet pastry in a traditionalpastelaria. 

5. Take a tram

Although Lisbon’s other forms of public transport are excellent there is something novel about hopping aboard these vintage yellow trams. They are a great way of seeing some of the Lisbon’s main attractions as they rumble around the city centre, such as the beautiful Basilica da Estrela.

6. Experience Fado

Whether you’re feeling a homesick induced sense of melancholia, want to lament a broken heart or just want to experience something truly Portuguese, a traditional Fado bar is the place to go. Fado is traditional folk music from the 18th century that usually encompasses some sombre, emotive lyrics backed by a Portuguese guitar. A live performance in an atmospheric bar such as A Baiuca or Patio de Alfama is an experience you can find only in Lisbon.

7. Parque das Nações

In complete contrast to the city’s historic centre, Lisbon’s east end underwent massive redevelopment in 1998 and is now where you’ll find Portugal’s most contemporary architecture along with a modern marina. The pièce de résistance is the Lisbon Oceanário â€" Europe’s largest aquarium, where visitors can walk around one large central tank and marvel at the schools of giant fish and sharks within. With impressive exhibitions that recreate various ecosystems that are home to some 450 species of animal, their main aim is to educate visitors about the necessity of ocean conservation.

Kirsten McCroskrie is a Content Intern for Skyscanner UK and is currently studying a Joint Honours degree in English Literature and Spanish at the University of Glasgow.

www.skyscanner.net 

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