Unlike quite a lot of of the continent's major cities, the Portuguese capital city benefits from sitting in a scenic site, permitting you to enjoy views out over the Atlantic and along towards the River Tagus before you even start to look at its many sights.
If you are just here for a day or 2 , one of the top ways to enjoy Lisbon is usually to embark upon a coach tour, as this city has so many ancient and architectural sights that it can be difficult to fit everything in. However be sure to choose one which permits you to experience several of the main landmarks by foot.
Being driven along streets such as the mile-long Avenida da Liberdade and on the go Rossio Square will ensure you see sights such as the statue of the first Marquess of Pombal, who cemented his spot in history by leading the rebuilding of Lisbon following the infamous 1755 quake.
You will also get a terrific view over Alfama, which is the oldest area within Lisbon. Various areas of the capital city have a extremely modern feel, although this part retains its old-world allure. In addition to small streets & traditional homes, you'll discover the 12th century Lisbon Cathedral along with the monastery of Sao Vicente de Fora at this juncture, while the whole area is towered over by the Moorish Castelo de Sao Jorge.
An extra feature of Lisbon is guaranteed to be one of the high points of the cruise - travelling across Ponte 25 de Abril. One of the longest suspension bridges in the world, it is a superb vantage position from where to view the city & surrounding area.
Moreover no visit around the Portuguese capital is completed without a trip to the Jeronimos Monastery while in the wonderful Belem district. The monastery is home to the burial place of the explorer Vasco da Gama, together with two intruiging museums.
The Maritime Museum tells the tale of Lisbon's seafaring tradition along with the history of navigation, while the National Archaeology Museum has exhibits including Bronze Age metalwork, Roman mosaics & 1st century granite statues of Lusitanian warriors.
In case you have time you might also aspire to look at the countryside that surrounds Lisbon, particularly if you enjoy the odd glass of wine. The hillsides have a plethora of Portugal's best vineyards and it is possible to arrange a wine-tasting tour and sample some of the local produce.
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