A fascinating city
The capital and at the same time the largest city of Portugal is beautifully situated on the Tagus River, which is spanned by the longest suspension bridge in Europe. The gigantic statue of Christ on the south bank overlooking and protecting the city is also impressive. These two landmarks of Lisbon will surely fascinate you and will remain unforgettable.
There are many legends about the real age of Lisbon, as the Portuguese say Lisboa. The Phoenicians were said to be so fond of the seven hills and the safe haven that they named the place “Alis Ubbo”, which means “delightful little harbor”. Later, the Romans (205 BC) expanded the settlement and it received Roman city rights. The name "Felicitas Julia" was soon changed to "Olisippo" or "Olissapone". After the expulsion of the Romans, the Alans and Sons occupied the city in the 5th century before it was conquered by the Visigoths in the 6th century. The Moorish rule lasted from the 7th century (they called the city "Al Oshbuna" or "Lischbuna") until 1147, when King Afonso Henriques was able to recapture the city with the help of the crusaders. When the 5th King of Portugal, Afonso III, moved his residence from Coimbra to Lisboa in 1260, the city became the most important in Portugal - and it still is today.
At this point we cannot and do not want to describe everything that can be admired in Lisbon. Lisbon has to be experienced. Below are just a few of the highlights that we recommend you visit.
Bethlehem
The Belém district is characterized by the Belém Tower (small fortress), the Monument to the Discoveries, the Carriage Museum and, above all, the Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) with its magnificent cloister. King Manuel I designed the monastery in honor of the voyages of discovery, but above all in honor of Vasco da Gama (discovery of the sea route to India, 1499). In 1500 the king himself is said to have laid the first foundation stone.
The Belém Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Low
Baixa, the lower town, was geometrically rebuilt after the earthquake, but in the old style. The Praça de Comercio square with the equestrian statue is framed by marble arcades and a triumphal arch. The Baixa is the center of business life. Here you can discover many pretty tiled facades in the narrow, medieval streets.
Alfama
Alfama is Lisbon's oldest district, built on the highest of the seven hills. He even survived the earthquake of 1755, which almost completely destroyed the rest of Lisbon. The appearance of the Alfama is still medieval today. Through a maze of narrow streets, old, dark houses and steep stairs you get to São Jorge Castle. Enjoy the wonderful panoramic view of the entire city from the viewing platform. The way back takes you to the lower town and thus also to the oldest cathedral in Lisbon: To the Cathedral Sé Patriarcal, the interior of which is determined by romantic and Gothic elements.
Bairro Alto
The upper town shines in the splendor of the 17th century. The best way to get here is by funicular, the Elevador da Gloria and the Santa Justa elevator (built by a student of Gustave Eiffel). Originally a craftsmen's quarter, today it is a sought-after residential area, primarily for noble families. It is characterized by fado bars, restaurants, pubs and cafes as well as antique shops and beautiful shops that invite you to browse. Church and monastery do Carmo (now ruins) with an adjoining museum and São Rogue, the most beautiful church in Lisbon (built in 1566), can also be found in Bairro Alto.
Rossio
The Rossio is not only the heart of the city, but also one of the most beautiful squares, surrounded by many street cafes that invite you to relax. Here you will find flower stalls, kiosks, on the edge the shoe shiners, the Restauradores district and the nearby Rossio train station. Life pulsates here! The Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon's boulevard, also begins nearby.
More Attractions
In addition, there are of course a number of interesting museums (e.g. the Museu Nacional de Arte, which is one of Portugal's most important museums) and many wonderful churches that are worth visiting. Many small alleys want to be discovered and wide promenades with fine shops await visitors. There are two things that you shouldn't miss at all: First, a city tour of a different kind, namely with an Electrico, one of those incomparable, antique trams that clatter their way through the narrow alleys. On the other hand, you should take the time to take a break in one of the many cafés and let the hustle and bustle of this fascinating city sink in with a coffee, a glass of Vinho Verde or Vinho Tinto.
If you still have the time and inclination, we recommend a detour to the area:
Estoril and Cascais
Estoril is about 29 km from Lisbon and next to Cascais it is Portugal's most important seaside resort. These two beautiful seaside resorts have almost grown together. Your image is shaped by the marina and luxurious villas, the sight of which takes you back to the time when the royal family spent their vacation here.
Sintra
The former summer residence of the Portuguese kings (until 1580) is located on a mountain spur of the Serra de Sintra. Even then, the mild climate and the extremely attractive landscape attracted the Moorish rulers. Visit the large Palacio Nacional, or Palacio Real for short, in the town center, as well as the remains of the former Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish fort) - the efforts of the ascent are rewarded with a spectacular view of the city. The Palacio da Pena with its wonderful rooms is definitely worth a visit, it looks like a fairytale castle and is also called the "Portuguese Neuschwanstein Castle". The old Moorish town of Sintra with its many culturally and historically significant sights is almost a must in your sightseeing program.
