24 Hrs in Lisbon
There is no main location to explore in Lisbon – everything is worth a wander. Rather, it’s how you do it that will make your stay interesting. Tram 28 is both a symbol of the city and an amazing way to see all the sights. It begins its journey at Praça Martim Moniz and winds its way through all the key neighbourhoods, including Alfama, Barrio Alto, Mouraria and Graça for less than €4 per person. Don’t waste your money on expensive double-decker bus tours when you can see the sights for a fraction of the cost in an authentic antique streetcar. Just watch out for pickpockets as they are notorious on this route.
The Elevador de Santa Justa 7am-11pm; Sundays and holidays: 9am-11pm Adults 5€. The fee way includes a round trip lift from the bottom steps of Rua de Aurea (also known as Rua do Ouro) and R. de Santa Justa with access to the unobstructed second platform.
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Praça do Império. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and a final resting spot for explorer Vasco da Gama deserve time and attention.
Castelo de São Jorge. Adults 7€ Built during the Moorish period, start your day with an exploration of this 11th-century castle. Climbs the stairs to the ramparts of the walls or ascend one of the eleven towers of the Castle of St. George. The unparallel views of Lisbon are the draw for most tourists.
For other parts of the world this sweet treat is mostly known as Portuguese custard tarts but in Belem, they are “Pasteis de Belem” – where it all began in 1837. The history of the “pasties” is a story of an entrepreneur, an out of work employee from the Jeronimos Monastery looking for a means to make a living.
There is no better way to end a visit to Lisbon then to be emotionally charged by the lyrics of Fado (a Portuguese genre of music). While many tourists head into the Alfama district for their Fado some locals will lead you to Sr. Vinho, a Fado restaurant well off the beaten path where the food and music are of equal calibre.
If you love to shop, then the district of Chiado is the one for you. Named after the square around which the neighbourhood formed, Chiado is the midway point between downtown (Baixa) and the nightlife and club scene of Barrio Alto. Here is where you will find a plethora of one-off boutiques packed with Portuguese specialities.
24 Hrs in Lisbon – Njoy
