Places to see in Lisbon

Spread across seven hills overlooking the Tagus estuary, the historic districts of Castelo, Alfama, Mouraria, Bairro Alto, Madragoa, Chiado and Belém tell the fascinating history of the city. Bairro Alto is one of the most attractive quarters of Lisbon and was known for its lively if slightly seedy drinking dens from the 19th century onwards. The neighbourhood's vibrant spirit has attracted many literary and cultural figures to its Bohemian lifestyle, which remains to this day. By day one can enjoy chic and daring designer clothes stores and at night restaurants and later join those spilling onto the street from packed bars and clubs.

Wander down to Chiado and you’ll find what has been the classic meeting point for intellectuals and artists over the centuries. Today it has become one of the most chic and affluent parts of Lisbon, where the studios of some of the most famous artists are located close to the famous A Brasileira Café. The Alfama district, below the castle, is the oldest in Lisbon, having been inhabited for millennia, and is today known as the romantic heart of Lisbon. From here you can slowly wander up to the Castelo de São Jorge, where the history of the city began, and savour the impressive panoramic views of the city. Further down towards the Pombaline Baixa area you’ll find the “new” buildings that were erected by the Marquês de Pombal after the 1755 earthquake. This area is now famous for its shops, some being centuries old and highly specialized. Even if you are not, for example, the type planning to stock up on ribbons, you’ll love the beauty and atmosphere of the area.

Head on down towards the river to Terreiro do Paço (literally “Palace Square”, as there used to be a royal residence here, (destroyed by the 1755 earthquake), actually officially known as Praça do Comércio (Square of Commerce) since being rebuilt after the earthquake, and you will see the statue of King José I on his horse symbolically crushing snakes in their path. On the northern part of area rebuilt by the Marquês de Pombal is the grand Avenida da Liberdade with its chic and lavish shops, luxury hotels, restaurants and cafes. Dotted around Lisbon are a number of miradouros or vantage points, which are perhaps the best way to see the layout of Lisbon. Check out the miradouros of Santa Luzia, Graça, Santa Catarina, São Pedro de Alcântara or Portas do Sol – they are charming at any time of the day but those facing the setting sun are of course more dramatic at the end of the day.