It is in the combination of historic marvels and modern living that Lisbon really thrives.
It is a city that is steeped in history, from the Sao Jorge castle to the squares of Baixa. Dozens of famed landmarks, a striking range of architecture and several hidden wonders adorn the streets of the Portuguese capital, with many providing important reminders of a sometimes sobering past.
The 20th-century tramlines serve both tourists and locals, historic neighbourhoods host the best parties in town and centuries-old recipes are used for a custard tart that’s been the city’s favourite snack for hundreds of years.
Add in visits to historic monuments or hilltop viewpoints, and you’ll soon become aware that most of the best things to do in Lisbon are intrinsically tied to the history of the city. To help you discover both the modern city and its past, we’ve rounded up a list of some of our favourites.
Explore downtown and Alfama
Downtown is sometimes known as Baixa Pombalina after the Marques de Pombal, who took charge of the area’s rebuild after the earthquake
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The Baixa area is Lisbon’s delightful downtown, the historic heart of the city where a grid of elegant, paved streets lead northwest from the vast waterside of Praca do Comercio to the impressive Rossio Square. This is where you’ll find the majority of international brands and hotel chains, though there’s plenty of local flavour and a dazzling array of architecture dating from 1755, the year of an earthquake that levelled much of the city.
Neighbouring Alfama, the home of the Sao Jorge castle, is also worth exploring for its winding alleys, shaded courtyards and abundance of indie shops and restaurants. Start at the castle and follow the routes down the hillside, making your way to the riverside, while spending some time getting blissfully lost in the area’s mazy streets.
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Take the 28 Tram
There are several trams still in operation in Lisbon, but the 28 is the most historic
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From San Francisco to Prague, trams carry a certain air of nostalgia and charm, reminiscent of times gone by but still exceedingly useful to some people that call the city home. Lisbon is is one of these cities, with an extensive network of trams.
While getting any tram can be a novelty for some visitors, a journey on the 28 line is one of…
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