Sightseeing
Sightseeing Overview
Lisbon may have seven rugged hills and a major river but the city is still easily navigable with a combination of the impressive public transport system and walking around. Indeed the trams, ferries, funiculars and elevadors are all part of the fun of exploring the city and are something of an attraction in themselves (particularly tram 28).
A good starting point is Sao Jorge Castelo, which offers sweeping views of the city, opening up its rambling layout. Below the ramparts lurks the old town warren of the Alfama, with its local restaurants and raffish bars. Further to the west is the Praça do Comercio, the city’s impressive main square, which is soon to be pedestrianised. At one end of the square is the Baixa, a grid-like set of streets that breaks away towards another important square, the Rossio. At the other end of Praça do Comercio is the Rio Tejo, the city’s aquatic lifeblood, without which none of the city’s glories would ever have been possible. The river today offers cruises, some of which take in the areas of Belem and Parque das Nações (two other tourist hubs). Belem, on the city’s western extremities, is the heart of the old Portuguese Empire, with a string of attractions including the Torre de Belém, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and the Centro Cultural de Belém. The Parque das Nações, to the east of the city centre, is at the opposite end of the time scale – an ultra modern playground that is home to Europe’s largest Oceanarium, a huge shopping centre, river walkways and concert venues.
Outside the city boundaries the twin resorts of Estoril and Cascais offer a beach escape in the summer months, while the mountain retreat of Sintra is a perennially popular day trip.
Tourist Information
Associação Turismo de Lisboa
Palácio Foz, Praça dos Restauradores
Tel: (21) 361 0350 or (800) 296 296. Fax: (21) 361 0359.
E-mail: alt@alt-turismolisboa.pt
Website: www.atl-turismolisboa.pt
Opening hours: Daily 0900-2000.
Other offices are located at Santa Apolónia station and at the airport. There are also kiosks near main tourist sites.
Passes
The Lisboa Card offers unlimited travel and free or discounted entry to more than 27 museums and attractions, as well as a guide to Lisbon. 24-hour (Esc2200/EUR11), 48-hour (Esc3600/EUR18), and 72-hour (Esc4600/EUR23) cards can be purchased (concessions are available) at Associação Turismo de Lisboa offices.
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