Must-See Attractions Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is among the most lively and beautiful capitals of Europe, and perhaps the world. Located on the country’s western coast, Lisbon is a city perched on seven hills, where visitors can enjoy beautiful views over the Tagus River, explore the long and rich history of the capital of Portugal, try various exquisite local cuisine, and immerse themselves in unique Portuguese culture. If you have a chance to visit Lisbon, do not exclude these places to make sure that you get the most out of this outstanding city.

The Belem Tower

Visiting Lisbon, it is impossible not to pay a visit to this outstanding piece of architecture which is the Belem Tower. This is a 16th-century tower that was built as a defense tower at the entrance to Lisbon with the construction being a part of a long Tagus River. Today it is one of the main symbols of Lisbon and an object of tourist attraction, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Notice the great artistic work done in the form of stonework and observe the Manueline architecture. Also, do not forget to visit the café Pastéis de Belém to try the original pasties de nata – the egg custard tarts.

The Alfama District

Simply take a stroll down the narrow, other walled, cobbled lanes and back roads of the charming Alfama district. This is one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods and most historians think it was established during the Moorish period. Take time to enjoy the scenery and sounds passing through picturesque cafes, and Fado bars where you can hear the sad Portuguese tunes, and lines with clothes dancing in the wind. Visit such vantage points as Miradouro de Santa Luzia where you get excellent pictures overlooking terracotta roofs and pastel houses with greenery-filled hills in the backdrop.

The Gulbenkian Museum

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is considered one of the finest private collections of art in the world and boasts artifacts from more than 6,000 years of art history. Starting from Egyptian artifacts, moving on to Greco-Roman masterpieces, Islamic art, and ending with the European art of painters like Rembrandt, Monet, and Renoir, there is much to look at here. It is located on 40 acres of gardens which I believe could be well suitable for thinking about the art pieces. Do not leave without visiting the Museum Café, which, among its merits, has delicious snacks in an environmentally friendly setting.

Jerónimos Monastery

Built in 1502, the Jerónimos Monastery was another masterpiece of the most elaborate architectural style known as Manueline. What is more, this object is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites, so tourists should not miss it in Lisbon. Admire the super-humanistic and neoclassical motifs of the façade, slender pillars stretching to the sky like palm trees referring to the great travels and explorations of the Age of Discoveries. At its core, there is richness in the marbled corridors, quiet alcoves with beautiful arched passages, and the tomb of the famed explorer Vasco Da Gama.

The National Tile Museum

Portugal – the country where people are proud of the azulejo (painted tile) more than anybody else in the world. These colorful ceramic tiles full of cultural and artistic values can be seen on the facades and interiors of buildings throughout Lisbon. This distinct element of Portuguese tradition is well exhibited at the National Tile Museum, whose permanent collection spans five centuries of decorative tiles. Marvel at intricate neat patterns and scenes depicted in this art form by taking a closer look at the small mosaics. There is also a terrace on the top floor with good views over the Basilica da Estrela, so do not miss it.

São Jorge Castle

Take a step back in time, and go to São Jorge Castle, the Moorish castle that was constructed in mid eleventh century. Located on a hill this site is an impressive national monument that provides breathtaking views of the city of Lisbon and its multicolored historic districts and red terracotta roofs. Visit the Interpretative Center to orient yourself with the history of the Portuguese then take a walk along the walls and get creative, try to envision how many battles have been waged over centuries to possess this fortress.

Commerce Square

The famous commerce square or Praça do Comércio, with a marvelous façade facing the Tagus River, is one of them. With massive pillars that give the impression of a triumphal arch, it stands prominently as an entrance to Lisbon. Cross the entrance to immerse yourself in a beautiful and luxurious shopping mall as well as become acquainted with some of Lisbon’s most aesthetically pleasing cafes that are hidden within the arcades. Outside, you should take a closer look at a statue of King Dom José I located in the middle of the square and take photos with signs indicating the distances to cities such as São Paulo or Macau.

Tram 28

Or laugh at the view while riding the tourist tram no 28, a sort of tram–roller coaster zooming around Lisbon’s hills. Full of people both travelers and Portuguese the tram n.28 drives through most of the places of interest and shows the most beautiful streets of the districts of Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. It is quite inevitable to have a scenic but not-so-smooth drive over some hilly areas sharp turns and yawning cliffs. The tram makes such a screechy noise that one can bet the side mirrors of parked cars will be wiped off as it barely goes around the corner. An iconic Lisbon experience!

Time Out Market

The Time Out Market is a lively venue known for offering the most delicious and genuine Portuguese food and beverages, as well as a culture of culinary arts. Quintessential to a hypermarket food court, you get to savor fresh seafood, grilled steaks, tantalizing pastries, fine wine, and gourmet food from the country’s most acclaimed food establishments and celebrity chefs. The food is to be eaten at the counter or a table, and it is to be followed by a refreshing glass of vinho verde wine. Great live music and cooking demonstrations are awesome at this vibrant Lisbon eatery.

That gives you ten top sights to consider when filling up your Lisbon travel itinerary! Walking through the picturesque districts of Lisbon, which are painted in warm colors and are home to original and centuries-old architecture, such as Alfama, is also a great opportunity to take pictures and get acquainted with the local culture. However you decide to allocate your time in Lisbon, the combination of its historical and cultural allure, culinary offerings, vibrant entertainment, and oceanic views make it a destination that you won’t easily want to forget. Get spellbound by Lisbon – or at least, allow the city to cast its spell on you.

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