
Lisbon, Portugal’s bright capital, spreads along the north bank of the
River Tagus, which meets the ocean here.
One of the few European capitals with both a river and a coastline,
Lisbon has Praça do Comércio square as its main meeting area. The city
has always been ready to welcome new visitors and to bid a fond farewell
to those departing, something that was never more true than when saying
goodbye to sailors at the time of the great Portuguese maritime
discoveries.
This is why there are many important Manueline monuments shining in the
light of Lisbon and its surrounding region, such as the Torre de Belém
and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. The modern leisure area of the Parque
das Nações proves that Lisbon still maintains its close links with the
river today. Here, for example, you will find the distinctive mark of
Álvaro Siza Vieira on one of the buildings that hosted the last world
exposition of the 20th century, dedicated to the theme of the oceans. In
contrast to this, do not miss the picturesque mediaeval quarters of
Alfama and Mouraria, above which stands the castle. This castle, matched
by Bairro Alto on the other hill, leads down to the downtown city centre
known as the Baixa pombalina.
Lisbon is also at the centre of a region rich in diversity. Just outside
the city are the seaside resort of Estoril and the romantic hills of the
Serra de Sintra, where the perfect bond between palaces and nature led
to the area being classified as a world heritage site.
It is the sea, the climate and the stunning nature that give this region
its peculiar energy. Its many parks and nature reserves encourage
visitors to spend time in the open air, enjoying the peace and quiet of
a round of golf or the adrenaline buzz of surfing.
Perhaps this is why Lisbon is a city that is full of life. Here people
have an exuberant party spirit, doing things spontaneously for the sheer
pleasure of spending time in the company of others.
To end your day you could experience the traditional and relaxed
atmosphere of a Fado House. Or, if you’ve still got enough energy left,
pop into the various discos along the banks of the river and dance until
the early hours.
In fact why not stay up until dawn and take in the day-break on the
banks of the River Tagus, before enjoying a well-earned sleep?
Travel in Lisbon Attractions
GeoPassage tours offers multitudes of travel opportunities, Lisbon is just one of the many cities we offer day tours and individual attractions to, be sure to check out our entire catalog.