Lisbon, Portugal
How much does it cost ?
For a comfortable trip, expect to spend around $150-$250 per day, including accommodations, meals, sightseeing, and other expenses. This could change depending on your lifestyle and the type of accommodations you prefer.
How many days would be recommended?
Spend at least 3-4 days to fully experience the city, although a week would allow for a more relaxed pace and time for day trips to nearby attractions such as Sintra and Cascais.
The Basics
Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal, located on the western coast of the country. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, which includes a mix of Gothic, Manueline, Baroque, and modern styles. The city is also famous for its iconic yellow trams, picturesque cobblestone streets, and delicious pastries.
Fun facts
Lisbon is home to one of the oldest bookstores in the world, Bertrand Bookstore, which has been in operation since 1732. The city is also known for its unique musical genre, Fado, a melancholic style of music that originated in the 1820s and is often performed in small, intimate venues.
What is the best time to visit?
The best times to visit Lisbon are from March to May and from September to October when the weather is pleasantly warm and the tourist crowds are thinner. July and August can be hot and crowded.
Hot Tips
- Ride the iconic Tram 28 to explore some of Lisbon's most picturesque neighborhoods.
- Sample the famous pastel de nata, a Portuguese egg custard tart, at the historic Pastéis de Belém.
- Visit the LX Factory, a creative hub featuring art galleries, shops, and restaurants.
- Take a day trip to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning palaces and gardens.
A bit of History
Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history dating back to pre-Roman times. It became an important trading port during the Phoenician and Roman eras and was later conquered by the Moors in the 8th century. In 1147, the city was recaptured by the Christian forces led by Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal. Lisbon flourished during the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries, as explorers like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan set sail from its shores.