Welcome to Lisbon, Portugal, where the sun shines for most of the year and the hilly, cobbled streets are steeped in a rich history. As Radiodays Europe is in Lisbon in 2020, its worth knowing why this spectacular city should be on your travel bucket list.
Here are 10 reasons to visit Lisbon (in no particular order):
1. Warm Weather
Lisbon is a haven for its neighbours during cold European winters, as it delivers a warm temperate climate that is ideal for most activities. In fact, in March Lisbon temperatures vary between 15-18 degrees and only go as low as 8 or 9 degrees. Warm winter days in Lisbon make it the perfect sunny escape.
2. Beaches
In 30 minutes you can escape the city to the Oeiras-Estoril-Cascais coastline that is boasting with beautiful beaches. Breathe in the fresh sea breeze as you visit traditional seaside towns along the coast.
3. Architecture
Lisbon’s iconic architecture is a melting pot of styles from all over the world and different periods of history. Moorish influence can be seen in the oldest streets of Lisbon. Gothic and later Pombaline and Baroque style also appeared, transforming the city into an image of new and old, medieval and contemporary.
4. Portuguese Food
Pasteis de Nata (Portuguese tarts), bifana sandwiches (pork sandwiches) and bacalhau (codfish) are just three examples of famous dishes you should try. With proximity to the Atlantic Ocean for fishing and influences from Portuguese colonies like Macau and Mozambique, the cuisine is unique and worth trying. Treat yourself!
5. Quiosques
The quiosques (kiosks) of Lisbon are central to the café culture in Lisbon. Order a coffee or a cocktail and enjoy some snacks under the food stall gazebos that offer the perfect place to admire Lisbon life all around you.
6. Sintra
On a day trip out to the foothills of the Sintra Mountains, you can find Sintra – a resort town decorated with villas and palaces, all a shade of pastel. You might even recognise the Sintra and Pena Palaces, distinguished by their elaborate tile work and sharp contrast from their natural surroundings.
7. 25 de Abril Bridge
What a sight it is! The 25 de Abril Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril) connects Lisbon to other parts of the city across the Tagus River. It is the 38th largest suspension bridge in the world and has a spectacular effect on the skyline. It might even remind you of another famous bridge in San Francisco…
8. Azulejos
Briefly mentioned already, Lisbon boasts an array of colourful tiles all over the cobble-stoned city. These facades create a colourful Lisbon, where each building contrasts to the next. These ‘azulejos’ date as far back as the 13th century to when the Moors invaded, and similar visions can be found in Spanish cities like Seville.
9. Belem
The Belem district was once the shipyards and docks of the 15th century. Extravagant buildings, plazas lined with trees and green open spaces are the perfect escape from busy Lisbon. A half day trip will be plenty of time to see some of this extravagance for yourself.
10. Miradouros
The miradouros (viewpoints) of Lisbon allow visitors and locals alike to revel in the beauty of the pastel vistas from various viewpoints all over the hills of the city. Some of the top viewpoints are Miradouro da Graça, Santa Catarina and São Pedro de Alcântara. Grab a G&T and enjoy the sunset above Lisbon.
Need we say more?
For more information about Lisbon, go to VisitLisboa.com
