TRAVEL TIPS
LISBON
OVERVIEW VISÃO GERAL TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTE ATTRACTIONS ATRAÇÕES WHERE COMPRAS TO STAY ONDE WHERE FICAR TO EAT ONDE SHOPPING COMER
TRANSPORT Central Lisbon is compact enough to explore on
art. Complementing the metro system is a
foot, and most sights in Baixa, Bairro Alto, and
network of trams and buses which are very
Alfama are within walking distance. The city
inexpensive. The old trams have become one
was built on seven hills, and there are vertical
of the city’s big tourist attractions.
“elevators� which connect the high and low areas of the city.
Various transport passes are available, including the Lisboa Card that allows unlimited
The Lisbon Metro (Metropolitano de Lisboa) is
transport, free entry to many museums
the most efficient way to get around the city.
and discounts on charges to enter other
The system covers most of the city, and the
attractions and activities.
modern lines are decorated with contemporary
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Metered taxis are a popular means of transportation in the city, and they are plentiful and affordable. A modern electric train links Lisbon to all the towns along the Portuguese Riviera, and there are ferries across the Tagus River.
TRANSPORT Central Lisbon is compact enough to explore on foot, and most sights in Baixa, Bairro Alto, and Alfama are within walking distance. The city was built on seven hills, and there are vertical “elevators� which connect the high and low areas of the city. The Lisbon Metro (Metropolitano de Lisboa) is the most efficient way to get around the city. The system covers most of the city, and the modern lines are decorated with contemporary art. Complementing the metro system is a network of trams and buses which are very inexpensive. The old trams have become one of the city’s big tourist attractions. Various transport passes are available, including the Lisboa Card that allows unlimited transport, free entry to many museums and discounts on charges to enter other attractions and activities. Metered taxis are a popular means of transportation in the city, and they are plentiful and affordable. A modern electric train links Lisbon to all the towns along the Portuguese Riviera, and there are ferries across the Tagus River.
ATTRACTIONS ELÉCTRICO 28 A trip on one of Lisbon’s trams is an excellent way of seeing the city. Take the Eléctrico 28 at Martim Moniz near Rossio. The tram winds its way up the hills around the Alfama district then back down through the districts of Baixa and part of Bairro Alto. Along the way, you will see some of Lisbon’s beautiful old residential streets, its mansions and monasteries— including the São Vicente de Fora Monastery dating back to the 12th Century AD. You will also pass the Sé Cathedral, one of the city’s most impressive landmarks. Get off the tram at Miradouro de Santa Luzia, from where you will be treated to one of the most beautiful views
of the voyages of discovery, and for the
of the city. The Eléctrico 28’s final stop is in the
sailors it was the last sight of their homeland.
beautiful district of Prazeres.
Facing the sea is a statue of St. Mary of Safe
PADRÃO DOS DESCOBRIMENTOS This 52-metre high monument, as its name
Homecoming, a symbol of protection for sailors on their voyages.
indicates, is a monument to the Portuguese
MOSTEIRO DOS JERONIMOS
who took part in Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
It was built in the 16th century, and is
It was built in 1960 to commemorate the
also located in the district of Belém. The
500th anniversary of the death of Henrique
monastery is the most impressive symbol of
the Navigator and is located on the estuary of
Portugal’s power and wealth during the Age
the River Tejo in the pleasant district of Belém,
of Discovery. It was built to commemorate
from where Portuguese ships departed to their
Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India and to give
often unknown destination.
thanks to the Virgin Mary for its success.
TORRE DE BELÉM
Vasco da Gama’s tomb was placed just inside the monastery entrance, as was the tomb of
The symbol of Lisbon, but 6km from the centre,
poet Luis de Camões. Other great figures in
the Tower of Belém is the most photographed
Portuguese history, such as King Manuel, the
monument of the city. This imposing tower
King Sebastião, and poets Fernando Pessoa
was built between 1515 and 1521 as a fortress
and Alexandre Herculano are also entombed
to guard the entrance to Lisbon’s harbour.
in the monastery.
It was also was the starting point for many
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WHERE TO STAY
The districts of Baixa and Rossio in the heart of Lisbon, are cheerful districts, and full of shops and restaurants. Avenida da Liberdade, which runs from downtown north to the Marquês
There is a variety of accommodation to
de Pombal roundabout, is lined with posh
choose from in Lisbon, from basic hostels
boutiques and glass office buildings. Hotels
or guesthouses, to mid-range hotels, to
along this avenue are mostly 4 or 5-star.
luxurious palaces. There’s something for everybody’s budget.
If you’re in Lisbon for the street life, the bars and the nightclubs, then it would probably be best to
As the city is built over seven hills, the location
stay in Bairro Alto, the trendier part of the city.
of where you choose to stay is all important if don’t want to have a long, hard trek home after
Budget accommodation in Lisbon is clean and
a day’s sightseeing or a night on the town.
reliable and there are several modern hostels right in the centre of the city, some of them
If you are interested in art and history, the
ranking among the best in the world.
district of Belém is the place to stay. It’s there you’ll find most of Lisbon’s museums and
In most hotels, hostels and guesthouses,
historical monuments. There’s plenty to do in
breakfast is usually included in the price. It’s
Belém, and the district is only a short train ride
normally, a continental breakfast, and in the
from the centre of the city.
case of upmarket hotels, a buffet.
DINING OUT No visit to the city is complete without stopping at one of Lisbon’s legendary cafés. The city also offers a variety of restaurants specializing in everything from traditional Portuguese cuisine, to international or contemporary, to vegetarian. There are restaurants for every taste and budget. The districts of Chiado and Bairro Alto feature traditional Portuguese cuisine. Eating in Lapa means that you’re paying a high price, but the high quality dishes worth it. For some international options, go to Doca de Santo
SHOPPING Lisbon, once the centre of commerce of a huge sea-faring empire, is now a European shopping destination. People come here to shop for everything from leather and glazed “azulejo” tiles, to fado music, pottery, items made of cork, wines and jewellery.
BAIXA Baixa, or downtown Lisbon, is the city’s main shopping and banking district Stroll along the pedestrian Rua Augusta, which has Amaro and Parque das Nações. For some
everything from tourist stores to European
international options, head to Doca de Santo
chain clothing stores.
Amaro and Parque das Nações. Make sure that you dine at a restaurant that plays traditional
CHIADO
fado music, but remember that you’ll pay more
In Chiado you’ll find some of the finest shops
than in normal restaurants.
Lisbon has to offer. Big name designers and jewellers have stores here. Chiado is also a
Almost all small restaurants in Lisbon has
great area for books and porcelain, one of
a sign on the door with the pratos do dia
Portugal’s specialties.
(dishes of the day) written on it. The food is usually cheap and fresh, and unless you’re
BAIXA
looking for something specific, they’re a
Take the Elevador da Gloria, from the Baixa
good choice. During your meal the waiter will
to the Bairro Alto. Bairro Alto is full of artists’
probably bring you some starter dishes you
galleries, second-hand stores, tattoo parlours,
haven’t requested: as those are not free, feel
and all kinds of unconventional merchants.
free not to touch them and you will not be
Bairro Alto will reveal some hidden gems to
charged for them.
you if you explore the neighbourhood well.
When in Lisbon, try the magnificent pastéis
In Lisbon, shops are open a little later than
de nata at any pastelaria or even better,
other places in Europe, usually from 9:30 a.m.
the Pastéis de Belém next to the Mosteiro
to 10 p.m. Lunch breaks can be quite long,
dos Jeronimos in Belém. Have them warm
usually from 1p.m. to 3p.m.
and sprinkled with cinnamon. They are an absolutely must.
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SHOPPING MALLS While most stores are closed on Sundays, many shopping malls are open 7 days a week. They usually open around 9:30 a.m. and close around 11p.m. or midnight, although the film theatres within them usually run a late session starting after midnight. Centro Comercial Colombo on Av. Colegio Militar, is one of the largest shopping centres in Europe. This shopping and leisure complex also houses dozens of restaurants, a bowling alley, health club, multiplex cinema, funfair with rides including a roller coaster, and a go-cart track. Armazéns do Chiado on Rua do Carmo, is a massive shopping centre that draws a young hip crowd shopping for books, CDs, and DVD. There are fantastic views of the city from the top floor restaurants and cafes. El Corte Inglês on Av. António Augusto Aguiar is a big department store with cinema and supermarket. It’s a bit pricey but sells good quality items.
STREET MARKETS Feira da Ladra, the Portuguese for “market of the thief”, is located in Lisbon’s Alfama district near Campo de Santa Clara. This flea market operates from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday and Saturday. It’s a lively outdoor market offering both new and used products. Markets of this type have pleased bargain hunters in Lisbon since the 12th century and the name Feira da Ladra has been used since the 17th century. Here you will find lace, leather, clothing, “azulejo” tiles, African art, and cheap jewellery. At the Feira da Ladra don’t buy anything at face value. Always make a lower offer.
Mercado da Ribeira, on Avenida 24 de Julho (Cais do Sodré), is open every day except
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Sunday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. This is a massive farmers market and a great place to buy snacks for the day while travelling on a budget. Pick up nuts, fruit, veggies, cheese, bread or meat or some beautiful flowers. The market provides a respite from regular Lisbon shopping.
CURRENCY The euro, denoted by the symbol € (or EUR),is the official currency of Portugal. The euro is divided into 100 cents sometimes called euro-cents. All circulating coins have a
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common side showing the value, and a map in the background. The coins also have a national side showing an image specifically chosen by the country that issued the coin. Euro coins from any European Union (EU) member state may be freely used in any nation which has adopted the euro. There are €2, €1, 50-cent, 20-cent, 10-cent, 5-cent, 2-cent, and 1-cent coins. The euro banknotes have common designs on both sides and are issued in €500, €200, €100, €50, €20, €10, €5 notes.
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