The 30 best Hotels in Lisbon

About Lisbon

First name, Maria. Last name, Lisbon. Set on seven hills, Lisbon is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe in large part thanks to its nostalgic atmosphere that is reflected in the fado, the musical expression of the soul of the city. Discover its corners and narrow streets tasting the wines and the most typical dishes in the tasquinhas. Do not miss the views offered from its elevators and the special light that illuminates the streets of Lisbon. Silence, they're going to sing the fado!

Moving around

To think about Lisbon is to think about the yellow tram but it has few lines and these are restricted to downtown and the historic neighborhoods. There are two legendary tram lines: the 28, which runs through the center and passes by the Cathedral, the Bairro Alto and the Castelo; and the 15, which connects Belém with the city center. They are the best ways to get around the center and also a great tourist attraction. It is better to buy tickets at Carris kiosks, in the post office or in the subway stations because they cost about half price that if purchased on the bus. The subway is small but efficient although it has few combinations to transfer. There's also the option of the train to go to nearby towns such as Cascais or Estoril where you can enjoy the beach.

Out & About

In the Alfama district, there are many places to listen fado and drink the typical green wine. This neighborhood is made of narrow streets and picturesque houses. It lies at the foot of the Castelo de São Jorge, which offers beautiful views of the city. It's the old fishing village, the birthplace of fado, and it also houses its museum. The Chiado area is known as the Montmartre of Lisbon due to its elegant and bohemian character. The Bairro Alto is an area of narrow streets, restaurants and bars and it's even more alive at night. It's the alternative area of the city. The Baixa is the area with more number of visitors and the most important of the historical center. It consists of gridded and straight streets; it's also the business district. In the Avenida da Liberdade you can admire the beautiful mosaics that form black and white patterns. Rossio square is one of the main ones of the city and the place where Lisboans meet. From this square you can access the old part. To the right of Rua Augusta is the Elevador de Santa Justa, an iron forged elevator that offers a nice view of the city. Since you're in the area, visit also the Praça do Comércio that opens to the Tagus river. Other highlights of the city of Lisbon that you cannot miss are the Belém Tower, Jeronimos Monastery and Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the Monument to the Discoveries.

What's going on in

The highlight of the Lisbon Carnival that takes place in February is the entrudo, a satirical parade filled with music and color. From late April to early May, the International Independent Film Festival of Lisbon takes place. Besides presenting the different films, courses and workshops are organized. In late May, you can enjoy the International Tango Festival with a large deployment of both musicians and dancers. June 10th is the National Day of Portugal. In addition to the usual official parades, other regional fairs are held. Soon after, in July, the Beer Festival takes place. After the success in Brazil, the popular festival Rock in Rio is also celebrated in the Portuguese capital, in Bela Vista Park, every two years.

Shopping

Rua Augusta is not very long but it concentrates important stores. On the other hand, Ladra market, a clothing market, is organized every Saturday. There aren't many but, in the Avenida da Liberdade, you will find the luxury shops of the city. In Lisbon, commercial centers such as Colombo and Vasco da Gama are booming. In Chiado, you'll also find the Armazéns do Chiado and, wandering around its streets, you will find interesting libraries. The most typical products you can buy in Lisbon are wines and ceramics.

What's cooking?

In the area of Belém you'll find one of the most typical pastry shops of Lisbon, which sells the famous Belém cakes. In restaurants, be careful with what they put on the table before eating, like olives, bread and butter and so on. They are not an invitation on the house but they will be charged at the end. Sometimes they can be even more expensive than the food itself.

Weather

The Portuguese capital is one of the warmest European capitals so any time of the year is good to visit.

Practical information

The 7 Colinas is a rechargeable card that you can use to use the public transport. Don't forget that eating at 14h may be a little late, there are many kitchens that close at 15h. The cobbled streets of Lisbon and high heels do not make very good friends so you better use more comfortable shoes.

So...

Follow the footsteps of Ricardo Reis and discover Lisbon, the Cinderella city, low over the hills, to discover its soul with fado music as a soundtrack.