Lisbon, the capital and largest city in Portugal, often appears among the most popular tourist destinations on the European continent. The so-called “city of seven hills” offers a sumptuous mix of history and contemporary / modernity, which wins the hearts of those who pass by. If you are looking for reasons to visit Lisbon then be sure to read this article.
1. Security
Security
Year after year, Lisbon continues to “advance” on the security index compiled by the Mercer consultancy. In 2019, the Portuguese capital not only made the 31st position among the safest big cities in the world, but also for an excellent quality of life.
2. History
National Museum of Ancient Art
Do you like history? If so, this is the ideal city to visit. Many centuries of history have left their mark on Lisbon’s varied historic districts and throughout the museums that you can find in the city.
Visit some of the museums where you can discover the history of the city and Portugal, such as the National Museum of Ancient Art, founded in the 19th century and home of a collection of more than 40 thousand pieces. A visit to the National Coach Museum will present you with a unique experience featuring coaches from the 16th and 17th centuries. Make sure to pay a visit to the National Tile Museum, which is located inside an old monastery and has a permanent exhibition with Portuguese tiles from past centuries until the present.
3. Weather
Weather
Lisbon is known as the European capital of the sun, even coming ahead of sunny Athens. Portugal’s capital has an average of 2799 hours of sunshine each year, offering several months with amazing days to explore its charms.
4. Gastronomy
Gastronomy
After three restaurants in the city got their first Michelin star in 2016, the Portuguese capital now has a total of six restaurants with the prestigious award. This includes the wonderful Belcanto by chef José Avillez, who owns two stars.
5. Belém
Torre de Belém
When planning your visit and what you will do in Lisbon, be sure to visit the Belém area, where in addition to enjoying the famous Pastéis de Belém, you will find a several monuments that you can’t miss: the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the Centro Cultural de Belém and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Include in your tour the Torre de Belém, which has been an UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. This monument was built in 1515 to guard the city’s port and inspect the passage of the various ships arriving in the city. It is also one of the most beautiful examples of the Manueline-style architecture, a typical Portuguese style, the Torre de Belém has a height of over 30 meters and has characteristic features like the armillary sphere and the cross of the Order of Christ. A great place to enjoy a magnificent view of the Tejo river.
6. Viewpoints
Viewpoints
As it could not be otherwise, in the “city of seven hills” there are viewpoints scattered everywhere and offering visitors breathtaking views of the capital. Among the most cherished viewpoints, we can mention the viewpoints of Santa Catarina, São Pedro de Alcântara, Senhora do Monte and Portas do Sol. Some of these places have cafes with snacks and refreshments to enjoy while admiring the view of the city.
7. Fado
Fado
The sound of the emblematic Portuguese guitar and a powerful voice distinguish Fado, a major cultural expression of the soul of the Portuguese people, mirrored in the songs that speak about longing, pain and suffering, but also love and the beauty of the Portuguese capital. Learn the history of this musical style, which was elevated in 2011 by Unesco to the category of Cultural and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, at the Fado Museum. Take the opportunity to visit the Casa Museu Amália Rodrigues, this year that celebrates the centenary of her birth, an essential figure of the history of Fado. Casas de Fado are the best place to enjoy fado and a meal in a typical, local environment. Discover which ones to visit here.
8. Historic neighborhoods
Historic neighborhoods
Wander around the city and find out what characterises each of its most typical neighborhoods.
In the beautiful Alfama neighborhood, which you can’t miss when visiting Lisbon, the narrow streets, flowered balconies, old taverns and Casas de Fado are the distinctive elements that won’t fail to catch your attention.
Another historic neighborhood to visit in the Portuguese capital is Bairro Alto, full of bookstores, restaurants, clubs and an extraordinary view of the city.
9. Beaches near the city
Beaches near the city
The city of Lisbon is one of the few European capitals that can gloat over the magnificent beaches, attainable within minutes by car or train, bathed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Luzeiros Suites has a privileged location that provides you with easy access to beaches where you can sunbathe or practice water sports, a great option for the warmest days. Enjoy striking coves and dunes as far as the eye can see.
10. People’s amiability
People’s amiability
Foreigners who visit the capital have the habit of defining the Portuguese people as friendly and hospitable, sympathetic and always ready to help with tips and answer questions about the city. At our hotel this is no different, and our team is always available to provide you with a stay, which you will want to repeat, in the Lisbon capital.