LISBON
Portugal’s gateway to the world
LISBON
LISBON S
and lies on a strategic sea route. Its Decimated by a cataclysmic series tre port is bustling with activity, handling a of earthquakes in 1755, Lisbon has large proportion of the trade between Portugal and neighbouring Spain. been rebuilt into a national Decimated by a cataclysmic serieshub of of earthquakes in 1755, Lisbon has been The city is also culturally one of the economic cultural on and rebuilt into aand national hubactivity of economic culturalmost activity on thehubs. TagusDe-River country’s important spite making up just three percent of the Tagus RiverManager: Matt Cole-Wilkin Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project
at in the estuary of the Tagus River, Lisbon is the westernmost capital city in continental Europe and serves as Portugal’s chief port, largest and capital city, and commercial, political and tourist centre. It was once considered by Europeans to be the furthest edge of the known world before it became basecamp for the renowned Portuguese explorers of the 15th and 16th centuries, Vasco da Gama being the most well-known. The city is defined geographically by seven hillsides which overlook the river, these vantage points being a highlight for anybody’s visit. Much of the architecture is defined by a huge earthquake that destroyed much of Lisbon in 1755, the rebuilding exercise that followed providing the template of what stands today. As well as being scenically spectacular, Lisbon is a crucial economic cen-
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Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Matt Cole-Wilkin
Portugal’s landmass, the metropolitan area is home to more than a quarter of the nation’s population, owed much to the surge in migration from rural areas in the 1970s when industrial activity took off.
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at in the estuary of the Tagus River, Lisbon is the westernmost capital city in continental Europe and serves as Portugal’s chief port, largest and capital city, and commercial, political and tourist centre. It was once considered by Europeans to be the furthest edge of the known world before it became basecamp for the renowned Portuguese explorers of the 15th and 16th centuries, Vasco da Gama being the most well-known.
The city is defined geographically by seven hillsides which overlook the river, these vantage points being a highlight for anybody’s visit. Much of the architecture is defined by a huge earthquake that destroyed 85 percent of Lisbon in 1755, the rebuilding exercise that followed providing the template of what stands today. As well as being scenically spectacular, Lisbon is a crucial economic centre and lies on a strategic sea route. Its port is bustling with activity, han-
dling a large proportion of the trade between Portugal, Spain and many other countries all around the world. The city is also culturally one of the country’s most important hubs. Despite making up just three percent of Portugal’s landmass, the metropolitan area is home to more than a quarter of the nation’s population (half a million people), owed much to the surge in migration from rural areas in the 1970s when industrial activity really began to take off.
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LISBON
The Business End Nations Park, home of Expo 1998 and many other leading events
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FACTS & FIGURES UNTIL AROUND 50 years ago, Lisbon’s economy has been historically based on fishing industries. Following a brief stint of nationalisation, industries such as pharmaceuticals and technology have been taken over by multinationals, although the city’s major economic activities today revolve around services. This includes tourism, which nationwide celebrated a record year in 2018 in terms of arrivals. Some 21 million tourists visited the country last year, a 1.7 percent growth on 2017 and inclusive of 1.83 million Brits, 1.75 million Spaniards and 2.6 million French and German citizens. Lisbon saw 15 million sleepover stays, making it the second most pop4 | EME Outlook issue 32
ular destination in Portugal second only to the Algarve, a big contributor to the nation’s thriving hotel trade, which took in €3.6 billion in revenue in 2018. The capital is also emerging as one of Europe’s leading MICE tourism hotspots, its popularity in part due to a cluster of large conferencing venues within easy reach of Lisbon’s ideally situated airport. Indeed, the International Congress and Convention Association puts the city in sixth place globally in terms of the number of meetings organised last year, climbing three positions on 2017 and ahead of the likes of London, Singapore, Hong Kong, Prague and Bangkok.
Languages: Portuguese Area: 100 km2 Population (2018): 2.8 million approx. GDP per capita (2017): 24,700 Currency: Euro Time zone: GMT+1 Dialling code: +351 (Portugal) Internet TLD: .pt Climate: Mediterranean
LISBON
In Focus Lisbon Congress Centre LISBON CONGRESS CENTRE, commonly known as CCL, is the largest convention and meetings venue in the Portuguese capital, opening its doors in 1989. Spanning some 29,000 square metres, it houses eight auditoria, five pavilions and 34 meeting rooms, ideal for a business get together of almost any size. “It has been designed to host national and international conventions, congresses, seminars, exhibitions and meetings of different sizes,” states Visit Lisboa. “It offers flexibility, maximum comfort and efficiency which allows the holding of several and different
Belem, a historical area of Lisbon sat by the Tagus River
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events simultaneously.” CCL is situated in Belem, a historical area of Lisbon sat by the Tagus River. Those driving to the venue can park in one of the 1,100 spaces on site, while the riverside restaurant can seat up to 400 diners. Since opening it has been refurbished twice and has hosted congresses of all sizes, from 100 to almost 10,000 delegates, including the Presidency of the European Union. CCL offers a wide variety of services to complement any event, including audio-visual, catering, IT, security, furniture and plant supply, freight forwarding, cleaning, first-aid, photography and signage. For more information, be sure to visit www.lisbonvenues.pt/en/lisbon-congress-center
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E XPECT THE E XTR AORDINA RY
Brimming with Portuguese spirit, Corinthia Lisbon is the perfect reflection of the vibrant city in which it is based.
W W W.C O R I N T H I A .C O M / L I S B O N
LISBON
Visit Lisboa VISIT LISBOA IS responsible for promoting the Portuguese capital’s already very vibrant tourism market. Founded in 1997 under the Lisboa Convention Bureau, the organisation has been operating with the vision and mission to showcase the city as a top destination for leisure and business tourism worldwide. The Lisbon Tourism Association is directed by governing bodies, elected every three years, whose composition includes official bodies, business associations and individual associates – a total of 23 elements representing the various categories of members who operate in different parts of the tourism sector. The presidency of the board is held by the Municipality of Lisbon, and the deputy presidency is exercised by a private entity. Paula Oliveira is Visit Lisboa’s Executive Director, and has been with the
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body ever since it founded more than 20 years ago. Before this, she headed up the tourism department at Lisbon’s City Hall, this having graduated from the University of Lisbon in 1987. Here she answers our questions about the work of Visit Lisboa and gives her opinion on some of the best things to do in the city. EME Outlook (EMEO): How has Visit Lisboa developed and progressed in terms of its key objectives and the messages it tries to get across? Paula Oliveira (PO): Within the various marketing plans implemented for the region’s promotion, we have always kept in mind several things, including developing different products and experiences within the region and targeting different segments.
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Bringing key decision makers to the destination was and still is an investment and one of the top tools we use in promotion of the different products, and within what we consider to be a strategic priority for the Lisboa Region. EMEO: How would you say Lisbon has developed in recent years as a business travel hub and what are the key reasons behind its growing appeal? PO: Lisbon has been able to keep its authenticity, investing in new venues and renovating landmarks which provide a reflection of Portuguese history and culture. For example, Ajuda Palace (Royal Treasure Museum), is set to be open by late 2020. EMEO: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Lisbon? PO: Lisboa is spread across seven hills overlooking the majestic River Tagus. One will discover a major cultural centre blessed with a mild, sunny climate, a fascinating melting pot where historic influences such as its
Lisbon – quickfire reasons to visit • Culture/history/World heritage sites • Modernity • Entertainment and nightlife • Gastronomy and wines • Shopping • 21 golf courses • World surfing reserve • Various activities to develop within the city, the rivers, the ocean, the mountains and beach • High quality tourism infrastructure • Still a vibrant new destination
rich maritime past are interlaced with modern trends and lifestyles. Thanks to its close proximity to Cascais, the World Heritage Site of Sintra and the Arrábida’s amazing nature, Lisbon is a resort city with an extraordinary variety of experiences within one hour’s distance.
From championship golf courses to the excellent shopping and world class gastronomy and wines, there’s a staggering choice of experiences on offer in the city and the surrounding ocean, beaches and mountain range. EMEO: Are there any specific attractions, landmarks or places to eat and drink that you would recommend? PO: There are many! Exploring the Lisboa hills on a traditional tram ride; having dinner at a Fado restaurant; visiting the cloisters at Jerónimos Monastery (World Heritage site); doing a river cruise on the Tagus River and seeing the city landscape and from the southern bay; visiting the Gulbenkian Foundation; having grilled sardines for lunch at the riverfront; going up 25th April Bridge for an amazing view over Lisboa; having a cocktail at sunset on a rooftop bar… there are plenty of choices. EMEO: How do you see Lisbon developing as a business travel hub over the next year to two years? PO: Lisboa proudly ranks sixth worldwide according to ICCA (International Congress and Conference Association). We will do our best to keep Lisboa as one of the most attractive capitals for association and corporate events. The quality of service and good value for money are still major factors when selecting our city, and we will continue to promote diversity.
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Outlook Recommends “Seven cinematic hillsides overlooking the Rio Tejo cradle Lisbon’s postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals – a captivating scene crafted over centuries” – Lonely Planet
HOTE L S & HOS P ITA L I TY
Sheraton Lisboa Hotel & Spa Corinthia Hotel Lisbon
Intercontinental Lisbon
Pestana CR7 Lisboa
Situated within easy reach of museums, shops and Lisbon’s metro system, the Corinthia Hotel Lisbon is an ideal base from which to explore Portugal’s capital. Fitted with luxury accommodation, a business centre and stunning views of the cityscape, the hotel also houses an impressive food offering, with live cooking stations a particular highlight for guests and visitors.
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LISBON
Outlook Recommends ORGANIS ING EVEN T S
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Casa Da Comida
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Lisbon Congress Centre
Fredauto Comboios de Portugal BCS Travel Tap Air Portugal
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We Bring People Together Meet Lisbon from its highest view at one of the most recognized hotel icons in Lisbon, the Sheraton Lisboa. Centrally located, the hotel offers 369 spacious guestrooms and suites, free WIFI, 1.500 sqm. of well-being at the Spirito Spa and the rooftop Panorama Restaurant & Bar with sweeping views of Lisbon. 1.600 sqm. of event space with 12 multipurpose rooms and a capacity up to 600 seats, bring people together around the globe for community and productivity. Sheraton Lisboa Hotel & Spa Rua Latino Coelho, 1 1069-025 Lisboa, Portugal T +351 213 120 000 E sheraton.lisboa@sheraton.com SheratonLisboa
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©2019 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All names, marks and logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc., or its affiliates.
MAKE YOUR EVENT AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE Pestana CR7 Lisboa born out of a collaboration between Cristiano Ronaldo and the Pestana Hotel Group, This Lifestyle Hotel in Lisbon is located in the posh historic neighbourhood of Baixa Pombalina less than a minute on foot from Praça do Comércio, the main tram lines, the Chiado shopping area and the nightlife of Cais do Sodré.
EVENTS | CATERING | CORPORATE | WEDDINGS We are an established company with more than 40 years of history. The passion for events and the excellence of serving well move us. www.casadacomida.pt
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LISBON
IMAGE BY MISTER NO, CC BY 3.0
IMAGE BY ARDFERN - OWN WORK, CC BY-SA 4.0
Transport Links
AEROPORTO DE LISBOA, described as an ultramodern transit hub and located just six kilometres north of the city centre, operates direct flights to major destinations in Europe and America. A range of budget airlines, including Norwegian, easyJet, Ryanair, Transavia and Wizz Air, also fly in and out of Lisbon, making it an affordable destination to get to for many leisure and business travellers. The airport is covered by bus and metro routes, with taxis and ride sharing services also available into the centre of the city. Once there, getting around is relatively easy thanks to an extensive bus 14 | EME Outlook issue 32
network that runs almost 24 hours a day on some of the busier routes, while the metro network is another straightforward way of hopping around and reaching places like the nearby Parque das Nações. There are also several historic tram routes and funiculars, these being particularly popular with tourists look-
ing for a novel way of getting to and exploring Alfama. Taxis are bountiful and reasonably priced, and cycling can be rewarding if you avoid the worst of the traffic, trams, hills and cobbled streets. Gira is the city’s bike sharing initiative, which has 48 stations scattered around and another 140 in the pipeline.
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Landmark Attractions TIME OUT MARKET LISBOA
MOSTEIRO DOS JERÓNIMOS “On the banks of the Tagus is an apogee of Manueline architecture… Construction on it began in 1501, lasted for a hundred years and was spearheaded by a remarkable group of architects and master builders both national and foreign” – Visit Portugal
“The Mercado da Ribeira has become one of the liveliest culinary spots in Lisbon since it was converted into a food court by Time Out Lisbon in 2014. The traditional fish, meat and fresh produce stalls exist alongside a huge food market” – lisbonguru.com
ALFAMA
ESTÁDIO DA LUZ “The largest and most modern stadium in Portugal, and stage of the Champions League final in 2014. Tours take place every 20 minutes, and offer a great experience…you can go near the pitch, to the dressing room, visit the press conference room, take a photo with Vitória the eagle and much, much more” – Visit Lisboa
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IMAGE BY MASSIMO CATARINELL A - OWN WORK, CC BY 3.0
“Wander downhill (to save your legs) through Alfama’s steep, narrow, cobblestoned streets and catch a glimpse of the more traditional side of Lisbon before it too is gentrified. Linger in a backstreet cafe along the way and experience some local bonhomie without the tourist gloss” – Lonely Planet
BusinessTravel Guide joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com
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