Lisbon Overview

By Christopher Minster

The capitol and largest city of Portugal, Lisbon (Portuguese: Lisboa), is a logical place to start your journey. Lisbon is a city that has come a long way in recent years, changing from a backwater capital of a small nation to a modern, industrious city. Slums have been razed to make way for modern projects, such as the Oceanarium.

Lisbon is a sprawling, modern city, divided into several areas and neighborhoods. There are a great deal of things to see and do in Lisbon. Most visitors will not want to miss Baixa, the central downtown area that includes the Sao Jorge Castle and the Cathedral as well as several streets of shopping and dining options. Along the river, you’ll find some interesting attractions and the neighborhood of Belém. If you’re too hip for shopping and tourist sites and instead want to check out nightlife and entertainment, head to Bairro Alto.

Lodging in Lisbon is a mixed affair: there is something for every budget and taste. Lisbon restaurants are typically quite good, especially if you’re a fan of good, fresh seafood. Try the sardines. If you’re famished, look for a churrascaria, or Brazilian-style steak house and buffet: you’re guaranteed to fill up. If you just want to eat, but don’t want to sit down somewhere, it is quite possible to make a tasty, economical meal out of pastries purchased at any one of Lisbon’s numerous bakeries.