Things to do in Lisbon

Portugal’s capital will keep visitors captive during their stay in Lisbon, as the city is steeped in history and culture. Historic landmarks and sites dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries as well as a few original surviving elements pre-dating the 1755 earthquake are on view, while the city’s ride and attraction-filled park and several unique museums also help to keep visitors entertained.

Castle of St George

Perched atop the tallest of Lisbon’s seven hills, the Castle of St George offers a tour of Lisbon’s history from the Roman times up to the royalty of the 15th century. The castle was a centre of power occupied by Romans, and later the Visigoths and the Moors, having been rebuilt in the 1940s. Within the castle, tourists can enjoy multimedia presentations or just wander around the walls, towers and gardens, and a spectacular panoramic view can be seen from the ramparts. During the summer, there are frequent festivals held in the castle grounds. A small restaurant is also open during summer months.

Tram 28

The public number 28 tram is so well-known that it is in itself a tourist attraction. The vintage tram makes its way through the city from the coast and up the hill to the Castle of St George, offering fascinating views of the city and the River Tagus. This particular trolley car line is famed for offering passengers a view of the city’s most famed tourist attractions. One word of caution: mind your belongings, as pickpockets are also known to ride the tram.

Belem Tower

One of the city’s most famous sights, the white stone Belem Tower was built in the early 16th century to keep guard over the river, and the tower was the last glimpse of Portugal seen by many seafaring explorers, who departed the city to embark on various adventures. The tower is constructed in the Manueline architectural style, incorporating naval themes, and a museum is located within the tower.

Hieronimite Monastery

This monastery dates back to the 16th century and is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is one few remaining examples of medieval Manueline architecture. The monastery features naval motifs and is the final resting place of renowned explorer Vasco da Gama as well as Portugal’s famed writer, Luís de Camões.

Nations Park

Originally built for Expo ‘98, this site has been converted into an all-encompassing park, featuring shopping outlets, a host of leisure activities, concert halls, bars and restaurants as well as a splendid walkway along the River Tagus. The landmark edifice of the park is also Lisbon’s tallest building: the prominent Torre Vasco da Gama features an observation deck and a restaurant.

Visitors to Nations Park can also visit one of Europe’s largest aquariums, the Oceanário. The aquarium features huge pools of sharks, manta rays, otters and penguins. The Oceanário is also linked with the Torre Vasco da Gama by a cable car, which offers breathtaking views of the site. The park is very popular with Portuguese families during the summer months, and a three-day park card is available, covering admission to several attractions as well as providing discounts on food, shopping and parking.

S Cathedral

In the 12th century, Portugal’s first king, Dom Alfonso Henriques, built this cathedral, mainly in a Romanesque style, while other architectural design elements were added after the major earthquake in 1755. The cloister dates back to the 13th century, and the Baroque sacristy holds the remains of Lisbon’s patron saint, St Anthony. A small museum is also housed within the cathedral.

guas Livres Aqueduct

The massive arches that comprise the Aqueduto das Águas Livres survived the 1755 earthquake, and the structure is now listed as a national monument. The stone structure was built in the Baroque style in 1748 by architects Manuel da Maia and Custodio José Vieira, and is a major architectural attraction despite being situated 18kms from the city centre.

Museums

Lisbon harbours several museums, and visitors will have the chance to take in some major collections of arts, craft and design works as well as learn about the country’s musical history. The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum displays a wide collection of art from nearly every major epoch, with the bulk of its collection made up of Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Islamic and Oriental art. The smaller collection comprises European art from medieval times to the early 20th century.

The Belém Cultural Centre houses the Museum of Design, which delves into 20th century design styles as well as hosting temporary exhibitions. The National Museum of Ancient Art houses paintings and sculptures that date back to the 12th century, with a wide collection of works by Portuguese and international artists.

Don’t miss the Fado House and Portuguese Guitar Museum, which traces the history and legends of the nation’s famed fado music. The museum also offers a document archive, auditorium, temporary exhibitions, a theme shop and café.