A WEEKEND IN LISBON

Trips to Lisbon Plant you on Portugal’s Premier City, Where 1,000-Year-Old Temples rub Shoulders with Gourmet Eateries and Luxurious Shopping Centres.

The Neighbourhoods

By capital city standards Lisbon’s pretty compact, which makes it super easy to explore during a short stay.

It’s split into a collection of easy-to-navigate neighbourhoods – you can head to the old town and unwind with an espresso in one of the cobbled plazas. Or, stop by the Bairro Alto district and try out some of the city’s classy cocktail lounges.

The Chiado area’s at the top of the pack when it comes to high-end holidays – its tree-lined walkways host five-star hotels and designer brands.

Capital Charms

Portugal’s capital city has a lot going for it. It’s got over a thousand years of history under its belt, which you can learn about at some of Lisbon’s biggest landmarks, like the Cathedral of Saint Mary Major and Jeronimos Monastery – the latter’s been given the UNESCO stamp of approval.

It’s got a great climate, too – the city barely sees any cloud, and boasts nearly 300 days of sunshine per year. That’s not all though, its close-to-the-coast plot means you can mix your city break with daytrips to the beach with ease.

A Foodie Favourite

Lisbon’s dining scene is often listed as one of the best in Europe, mostly thanks to a countless collection of eateries that offer everything from small-plate street food to Michelin-starred meals.

Tascas – a traditional type of Portuguese restaurant – can be found tucked away in old neighbourhoods like Alfama. They’re a great pick for hunger-quenching meals at low prices.

For local delicacies, look no further than a food market, Time Out Market’s the headline act – it’s housed in the city’s 19th-century market hall close to its centre. If fine-dining takes your fancy, Chiado’s your best bet, no other neighbourhood has as many Michelin stars on the map as this place.

Nightlife

Lisbon has a vibrant nightlife scene, which spills onto the cobbled streets of Chiado, you can watch the dawn come up over the Tagus River and serenade the stars from rooftop bars in the fragrant, warm night air.

There are haunts for the young and clubs for the locals; old favourites like O Pavilhão Chinês and newcomers like Praia no Parque, where dinner continues seamlessly from cocktails into dancing.

But, wherever you are, Lisbon’s dark, narrow streets, shimmering river and moonlit domed skyline, have a magical, enigmatic quality that gives the night-time city a character all of its own.