Perched on the highest of Lisbon's seven hills, this castle was the royal residence until the 15th century. Its best attractions are the panoramic views from the ramparts and the beautiful gardens. See Lisbon from a different perspective through the camera obscura that provides a sweeping 360º real time view of the city.
Things to see in Lisbon
Tourist offices
Address: Rua do Arsenal 21, Lisbon, 1100-038, Portugal
Tel: +351 210 312 700
Opening Hours:
Daily 0900-2000.
www.visitlisboa.comA fountain of knowledge, the Lisbon tourist information office staff can book hotels, restaurants and shows and prove an inspiration to first timers looking to explore the city. There are also branches at the airport, on Rua Augusta in Baixa and along Mosteiro Jerónimos in Belém.
The Lisboa Card (www.askmelisboa.com) offers unlimited travel on local public transport and free or discounted entry to many museums and attractions, plus a Lisbon guide. Passes are available for 24-, 48- or 72-hours and can be bought from all tourist offices, or online.
Located on the riverfront of the historic district of Belém, MAAT celebrates the intellectual ambitions and the creative means through art, architecture, and technology.
Take a lift to the top of the Rua Augusta Arch for breathtaking views over Praça do Comércio square, Sé Cathedral and São Jorge Castle. The arch was built to celebrate the city’s reconstruction after the 1755 earthquake and marks the start of the central Baixa area, which bustles with shops, cafés and market stalls.
Completed in 1515, Belém Tower is one of Lisbon's most famous sights. Built to defend the River Tagus and harbour, it was the last thing intrepid seafarers saw as they sailed away to expand the Portuguese Empire. Inside is a rather average museum, so take to the terrace instead for views across the city.
Top viewing spots include the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara at the top of the Elevador de Glória funicular, which offers views over Baixa and Castelo de São Jorge. Take Tram 28 to Miradouro de Santa Catarina to see the port and landmark Ponte 25 de Abril, which resembles San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.
The most impressive symbol of Portugal’s wealth during the age of discovery, this 16th century monastery is one of few surviving examples of medieval Manueline architecture, characterised by maritime motifs. It’s the resting place of Vasco da Gama, who set sail from Bélem in 1497 to discover India, and the famous Portuguese poet Luís de Camões.
Situated in the former Church of St Julian and opened in 2016, this museum explores the history of money and its relationship with society, both in Portugal and worldwide. The fun interactive museum also houses the only known archaeological remains of Lisbon’s 13th-century wall, which were uncovered during the construction.
Located in the Convent of Madre de Deus, a magnificently ornate chapel built in 1509, this museum catalogues the history of Portugal’s azulejos (glazed tiles). The ceramic tiles cover much of the city and this gallery has a collection that spans the art form from the 15th century to the present day.
This former Expo ‘98 site, which can be reached by cable car, combines shopping centres, architectural attractions, concert halls, bars, restaurants and a walkway along the River Tagus. It’s also home to Torre Vasco da Gama, the sail-shaped tower, with a viewing platform, which is Lisbon’s tallest building at 145m-high (476ft).
Vintage trams criss-cross the jumble of city centre streets and hills. Popular Tram 28 provides insights into local life and sweeping views across the Tagus. Be prepared to queue and watch out for pickpockets. If time’s short, Tram 12 is a great alternative, running through areas including Baixa and Alfama in 20 minutes.
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