Guide to Lisbon: Planning your vacation in the City of Seven Hills
The immaculate capital of Portugal is one of the most gorgeous and livable cities in Europe. It is a Top 3 for us, as we consider where to spend out time in early retirement. The pastel-colored houses, sweeping
hilltop views, and cobbled streets all conspire to make it a charming destination. Perched on the south of Portugal's west coast, Lisbon has plenty to offer traditional travelers thanks to a mix of history-clad museums, historic buildings, wild nightlife, eclectic music, beautiful beaches and exceptional culinary troves. Think of it as an all-around travel experience, we couldn't wait to arrive, and it exceeded every vision we had had.
Over the past few years, the city has become a revered travel destination, mainly for ex-pats and digital nomads, due to its inexpensive cost of living and lovely year-round weather. Since there is so much to see in the city, we have compiled a guide to ease your planning based on our experiences and interests.
Best season to visit Lisbon
There is no correct answer to the question, "What is the best season to visit Lisbon?" It comes down to interests; for example, the best time to visit Lisbon's beaches is during the summer months (June to September). The beaches are cooler due to the sea breeze as the city experiences sweltering temperatures (reaching 30°C). If you're a beach lover, the dotted coastal villages have some of the best sand stretches, bustling boardwalks, stunning outdoor cafes, and stunning views of offshore islets.
Spring (March, April, and May) and early autumn (October) is a great time to go sightseeing in the city. The warm and pleasant temperatures during the months, reaching highs of 23°C in autumn and 22°C in spring. There are also fewer crowds which is conducive for travelers looking to beat the crowds. Lisbon is a beautiful winter destination because the season isn't as chilly as in other parts of Europe, with temperatures ranging as low as 8°C.
Top five things to do and see in Lisbon
The multifaceted city has plenty to offer, but we have narrowed it down to these five activities that should make for a beautiful vacation.
Scour the Old Town
The historic old town of Alfama has narrow winding cobbled streets dotted with cafes, shops and
restaurants. Its name means "hot springs" and comes from the Moors who occupied the city in the 8th Century. Once you settle into your Airbnb or hotel, you will find that there are several walking tours that last about two and a half hours which offer great insight into the city. And don't forget the hop-on, hop-off buses! Both are something we often take advantage of, so we can check off sites that may be lower on our bucket list of priorities for a given visit.
See the Belem Tower
We saw it in so many pictures and videos, but seeing it up close was still so wonderful. The beautiful tower, built in 1515, was a fortress and a lighthouse at the height of Portuguese power during the Age of Discovery. The tower, located on the northern bank of the Tagus River, stands at 30 meters and has four stories. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983 and is open to tourists for self-guided tours. Admission is about €9, and is well worth the investment. Also, with being on the bank of the Tagus River, there are many vendors and other sites to take in, either walking or renting one of the many scooters available.
Visit the Jardim Botanico
If you seek a quiet place in Lisbon free from the bustle of the city, then the sprawling 10-acre garden is a beautiful solace. The estate was completed in 1873 and is home to some 18,000 plant species collected from different corners of the globe, such as New Zealand, Japan, China, Australia, and South America. Admission is €2.
Visit Lisbon's beaches
Lisbon's beaches are undoubtedly the best way to spend a summer afternoon in Portugal. As the temperatures soar, there is no better time to go for a swim and enjoy a few cocktails. Some excellent recommendations include; Guincho, Meco, Tamariz and Morena.
Visit St. George's Castle (São Jorge)
We didn't get here on our initial visit, but St. George Castle is perched on the hill overlooking Lisbon. The castle was initially built in the 1st Century BCE, although the current structure dates back to the Middle Ages. It was significantly damaged by earthquakes and was restored in the 1930s. The castle is open to tourists, and admission is about €10.
Conclusion
Lisbon is a trove, and whereas it isn't the hidden gem it once was, it hasn't lost its magic and remains a beautiful travel destination to cater to all travelers.
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