The beauty and sophistication of Lisbon

Published: 18th May 2011

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Like all great European cities, Lisbon has beauty, sophistication, history and excitement in equal measure. But there is something about Lisbon that will captivate any visitor. Certainly accommodation in Lisbon is very appealing.

As well as the attraction of the many nearby outstanding beaches along this Atlantic coastline, the city itself is built on the banks of the Tagus, and spreads over the seven storied hills that rise up from the river. This kind of dramatic landscape adds a sense of special enchantment. If you climb one of the many narrow, gothic streets that sashay upwards, or hop on one of the trams (Elevador da Bica), which transport passengers up and down the steep hills, you will be rewarded not only with a picturesque journey but with some breathtaking panoramic views.

There is elegance and grandeur in Lisbon, but also intimacy and lyricism. The laid back quality gets under your skin, and in certain places, like the bohemian 16th century Bairro Alto, you can really begin to imagine the Lisbon of the past. In the centre of the city, with easy access to all areas, Bairro Alto is also a great place to stay. Traditionally the haunt of writers and artists, this grid of cobbled lanes is replete with alternative bars, sleek boutiques and excellent, atmospheric restaurants. Don’t miss out on the delicious traditional fish dishes and delicacies (fish will usually be local and fresh). The nightlife is effervescent; shops stay open till late, and the bars, clubs and restaurants go on into the small hours. You will find music to suit all tastes, but the traditional folk music Fado will give you a true flavour of the soul of Portugal.

It’s worth checking out Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s graceful main Square, which is in the area known as the Baixa, the main banking and shopping district. It stretches from the riverfront to Avenida da Liberdade where the streets are named after the types of shops and traders who carved out a living there centuries before. Elegant and imposing, the architecture here is a great example of Neo-Classicism, as the entire area was re-built after the great earthquake of 1755.

Along the riverfront you will find top-quality restaurants with stunning views over the Tagus, and the amazing Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium) where an array of marine life can be observed and enjoyed by all the family.

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