Lisbon City Breaks

Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, has an immediately likable atmosphere and a rich cultural background. To the west lire the stylish coastal resorts of Estoril and Cascais.

Insider's Tip

Take a stroll around Chiado, the trendiest area of Lisbon. While away the sunny days in the many cafes, galleries and bookshops, or wander around and admire the stunning examples of 18th Century architecture.

Where to Stay

Our Lisbon hotels are all centrally located; you might like to stay in the quiet area around the Parque Eduardo VII. Within walking distance of the Old Town and other popular attractions. The Lisbon Coast is 45mins from Lisbon, and is the perfect place to enjoy some of Portugal's finest beach resorts. 

Castelo de Sao Jorge The crown on top of the hill, originally built by the Moors and one of the most peaceful spots in Lisbon. 

Alfama district The oldest district in Lisbon: a clutch of ancient houses, churches and narrow cobbled streets that cling to the hillside.

Fado is the music of ancient Lisbon and famous throughout the country. During the evenings you can visit one of the many Fado bars and restaurants, enjoy a small glass of port or beer and listen to the local Fado singers accompanied by  classical guitar.

Enjoy the scenery during a serene cable car ride from Funchal to Monte before taking a toboggan ride back down to Funchal in one of the traditional wicker sledges.

Food & Drink

Located at the mouth of the Rio Tejo (River Tegus), Lisbon has a rich gastronomy influenced both by the sea and its imperial history. In the streets you'll smell smoky, roasting chestnuts and freshly-baked custard tarts, and in the restaurants they'll serve up fresh sardines and cozido (a tasty meat stew)

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Wash your meal down with the young vinho verde wine or the fiery after dinner ginginha. Or try a glass of port sipped with some of the wonderfully strong goat and sheep cheeses which are usually eaten before or after the main dish.

 

 

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Shopping

Lisbon has an alluring profusion of boutiques, markets, regular street shops and large shopping centres. Along the Rua Augusta in Baixi-Chiado district there is a mix of international chain stores as well as small, traditional shops selling leather goods, jewellry and handicrafts. For funky boutiques and off-beat fashions, and if antiques are your passion, pay a visit to Bairro Alto. Other souvenirs available from this area include wicker baskets, embroidery, lace, leather and pottery. Portuguese wine and port also make lovely gifts.

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Excursions

Lisbon City Tour

Tour down Liberty Avenue to the Alfama district and along the riverside to Black Horse Square. Visits to Belem Tower, the monument to the discoveries, Jeronimos Monastery and the coach museum are all included, except on Mondays when the tour includes the Ajuda Palace or Fundacao Medeiros e Almeida museum.

Departs: daily. Duration: half day.
Adults from £35.

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Estoril Coast & Sintra
A chance to see the beautiful Portuguese Riviera. Visit Estoril, Cascais, picturesque Boca do Inderno cliff, Guincho and Cabo da Roca the most western point in Europe. Drive across Sintra mountain to visit Vila or Quelez Palaces before you return to Lisbon.

Departs: daily. Duration: half day.
Adults from £49.

Lisbon by Night
Begin the tour in the centre at Marques de Pombal Square, down Liberty Avenue to Rossio and Palace Squares. Continue with panoramic views of the monument to the discoveries, Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery. Enjoy views of the Lisbon Bridge and the statue of Christ the King inspired by the famous statue in Rio de Janeiro. Finally go to a typical local Fado restaurant to enjoy a meal and traditional Portuguese entertainment.

Departs: daily. Duration: half day.
Adults from £80 (includes dinner and drinks).

Cruise on the Tagus
Take a cruise along the River Tagus, taking in the Lisbon bridge, city, monument to the discoveries and Belem Tower..

Departs: daily. Duration: 1.5 hours
Adults from £32.