Lisbon Holiday
Portugal's capital is one of the most exciting and economical cities in Europe and undoubtedly far more fun than a week spent on an Algarve golf course
Though most British holidaymakers tend to head straight for Portugal's
many fine golf courses and even finer beaches, the city of Lisbon
equally merits a trip in its own right.
Lisbon Traditions and Culture
Though the myth that Ulysses founded the city after he sought shelter in its natural harbour after fleeing from Troy is just that, what cannot be doubted is that sea-faring has played an integral part in Lisbon's history and culture over the centuries. The city was first developed by the Romans and then the Moors, with the influence of both empires still very much evident, but it was only after the reconquest in the 12th century that the modern capital took shape. Spread over seven hills, all offering spectacular views, the city is made up of a number of old quarters, all with their individual characteristics. Castelo and Mouraria to the north, for example, boast some of Europe's most vibrant religious festivals, particularly in June, while in the Graca quarter it's still possible to hear the traditional fado music being played late at night.
Alongside its traditional music and religious beliefs, the local fare
has changed little over the years and Lisbon offers some of the world's
finest seafood in numerous family-run restaurants overlooking the
harbour, while the city's boisterous yet charming bars remain open until the early hours.
Lisbon Recommended
Simply wandering around the old city centre - known as the Baxia - is
one of the most rewarding experiences a traveller can have in Portugal.
Branching either side off Lisbon's grand tree-lined 18th century
boulevards are the traditional winding streets leading into the
traditional quarters such as Barrio Alto and Madragoa, both of which
boast colourful boutiques and friendly cafes. However, for the more
culture-seeking tourist, St Geroge's Castle, the National Museum of
Contemporary Art and the Carmo Archaeological Museum are all well worth
a visit.
For the best views, it's well worth taking a ride on one of Lisbon's
funicular railways, while for shopping the market at the Campo de Santa
Clara is hard to beat as local traders congregate under the soaring sun
to offer handicrafts and local delicacies at knockdown prices.
At night, the Barrio Alto is where most of the action takes place and,
while there are many tourist traps on offer, it's far more rewarding to
wander around the narrow streets in the hope of stumbling upon a genuine example of the melancholic fado music being played until well into the morning.
Lisbon Weather
Being close to the coast and benefiting from an Atlantic breeze, Lisbon
is one of the milder European capitals and gets nowhere as hot as
neighbouring Madrid. That said, the summer months are mostly sunny and
dry with temperatures hitting the high 30s degrees C, while winters are
cool and occasionally rainy, with temperatures varying between four and
18 degrees C. Though the summer sun is a big draw, so too is the
Carnaval, held in February or March, with hotels booking up fast for
this city-wide party.
Lisbon Destination checklist
As with the rest of Portugal, Lisbon is one of the easiest places for
tourists to visit, being both in the same time zone as the UK and also
having the Euro as its currency. Portuguese is the official language,
though some Spanish or English may be useful and the international
dialling code is +351.
