Are you going to Lisbon?

This post is also available in: Português

Not only Lisbon, but Portugal as a whole is being sought out not only by tourists but also by people who are going to live, work and seek a better quality of life in this lovely country.
And who does not want to live in a city where the sun appears for more than 290 days a year?

When my friends and I went to Lisbon, it was July, so the city was booming because it is school holidays in Europe, summer is on the peak and everyone is in search of the sun and enjoy their days of rest.

But if you think you’re going to rest, you’re very much mistaken. I do not remember I’ve ever walked in any city here in Europe as much as in Lisbon.
Most of the tourist attractions are walking distance and you will walk, walk and walk … You will be going up and downhill, and when you think that what you are looking for is close, you will come across a staircase that you will have to climb like “a zillion” steps, but then you will be in a little square, a nice street, an incredible view and such.

But all that walking is worth it, as the city is very rich in history, although in my opinion it is not as well maintained compared to other capitals here in Europe. Perhaps some of the attractions or facades could be better preserved and/or repaired, but even then, there is no doubt of the charm and beauty of the city.

Despite almost everything is done on foot, depending on where your accommodation is located, you will need to purchase a ticket for public transport.

For public transport, compare the current Lisbon Metro ticket options and CARRIS tickets and passes. Check the latest CARRIS service information before planning a journey on a historic funicular or lift.

If you’re considering a sightseeing pass, check Lisboa Card prices, inclusions and collection details before buying.

Tips:

– The Tram 28 is the best way to see some of the tourist attractions, passing through many of the most beautiful streets of the city and crossing the neighbourhood of Graça, Alfama, Baixa and Chiado. Bear in mind that because this tram is very popular, it can get quite crowded and we only got inside after almost an hour of waiting.
The beginning of it is at Praça Martim Moniz, which is near Praça dos Restauradores and Praça do Rossio. The tour takes about 40 minutes.

– Another line that is used by tourists is 15E. Its route begins in Praça da Figueira and crosses the city centre, making a stop in front of the Arch of Augusta Street and then goes to the Belém district, with a stopover next to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery and another one next to the Tower of Belém.

– Electricity is 230 volts, 50Hz. And the sockets used are those of two round pins. But I always advise you to have a universal adapter to use in any country in the world (just do not use the hairdryer on it as it will blow up).

For places to eat, read my Lisbon restaurant guide.

How to get from the airport to the centre of Lisbon?

The fastest and most economical option is the metro.
The airport is at the end of the red line. Depending on your destination, there are two quick ways to get to the historic centre:
– Airport – Blue Line: follow the red line until the last station, S. Sebastião (where is El Corte Inglés). Change to the blue line (towards Santa Apolónia) and get off at the station that best suits you (Avenida, Restauradores, Baixa-Chiado, Terreiro do Paço and Santa Apolónia, as all are already part of the historical centre).
– Airport – Green Line: follow the red line to Alameda station. Change to the green line (towards Cais do Sodré). You can drop off at Martim Moniz, Rossio, Baixa-Chiado and Cais do Sodré.

Where to shop?

Centro Comercial Colombo is considered one of the best malls in Europe with more than 400 stores. The mall is in the Carnide neighbourhood, next to the Estádio da Luz.

El Corte Inglés is a department store where you will find women’s and men’s clothing, beauty products, electronics, etc. It is located at Av. António Augusto de Aguiar, 31. You can arrive through São Sebastião Station (Blue Line and Red Line).

Centro Vasco da Gama is located in the Parque das Nações, a posh area of Lisbon. It has more than 170 stores, 6 cinemas, etc. Address: Av. D. João II, 40, and can reach by the Oriente station (Red line).

Outlet Freeport is the largest outlet in Europe with more than 150 stores such as Burberry, Calvin Klein, Diesel, Guess, Versace, Adidas, Levi’s and many other brands. If you’re visiting Freeport Lisboa Fashion Outlet, check its official transport and visitor information before travelling. Address: Avenida Euro 2004, 2890-154 – Alcochete.

Where to stay?

We stayed at the “Hotel Expo Astoria” near Marquês de Pombal and it was great, as it was well located, close to the tube station and also, because we had no breakfast included, there was a bakery nearby, the “Confeitaria Marques de Pombal”, with a considerable variety of Portuguese delicacies.

We enjoyed visiting a nearby bakery for breakfast during our stay. Compare your hotel’s breakfast option with local cafés before deciding.

For help finding somewhere to stay, read my guide to choosing a hotel based on your priorities. You can also compare accommodation on Hotels.com.

Well,  I think I have prolonged myself a lot, but I hope you have clarified most of your doubts and that the tips are of great value for your trip.

Continue with my guide to Baixa, Chiado and Bairro Alto.
And if you have any questions, just leave a comment below or send me an email, okay?
Enjoy your holiday!