Cheap Hotels in Lisbon - News

Explore Europe's Westernmost Capital

With its distinctive 'face' gazing out from the Iberian peninsula across the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is one of Europe's most appealing tourist destinations. Best known for the Algarve, the southern coastal region that welcomes millions of holidaymakers to its golden beaches every year, the city also boasts some excellent city break destinations, starting with its capital, Lisbon.

Lisbon is situated right on the 'nose' of Portugal's face, a location which makes it the westernmost capital in mainland Europe. This means that it is the only European capital where the sun sets over the sea.

The city has a history that stretches back over 20 centuries. Maritime voyagers regularly used Lisbon as a point of departure for their journeys, owing to its unique location on the Atlantic Ocean, and this turned it into one of the world's great ports. It was hit by an earthquake in 1755, the aftermath of which gave rise to the classical style of architecture that is now seen all over the city. Visitors to Lisbon will have plenty of opportunities for a close examination of its architecture, whether they are strolling on the banks of the Tagus, travelling on the trams or enjoying a cruise in a riverboat.

Most of Lisbon's most significant monuments are located in the historic area of Belem. These include Saint George's Castle, a building that was acquired by D Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, in 1147. Visitors to this location can see a multimedia exhibition on the evolution of Lisbon.

Another historic attraction is the Monument of the Discoveries, which pays homage to the greatest Portuguese explorers and offers a view of a depiction of a compass on the ground.

Visitors who want to enjoy a view of Lisbon in its entirety should head to the top of one of its seven hills, which are accessible via lifts or funiculars that can be found around the city. One of the hill ascents, the Elevador de Santa Justa, offers expansive views over the city, which take in the lower town area of Baixa Pombalina, Saint George's Castle and the River Tagus.

Another impressive vista can be discovered at the viewpoint of Senhora do Monte in Graca, where visitors can look out over the river and across Lisbon's rolling hills.

When all the historical locations have been visited and all the impressive sights taken in, visitors to Lisbon may fancy experiencing some of the country's modern and fun side. The best place for this is Bairro Alto, a residential, shopping and entertainment district that serves as the heart of the capital's youth and nightlife scene. The area is home to numerous bars and clubs that play music ranging from reggae and hip-hop to punk and rock, offering something for everyone who wants to cut loose and let their hair down.

Those looking for a more quiet evening out can head to one of the city's numerous restaurants, many of which specialise in fresh seafood caught a matter of hours before being served. Eateries around the city also serve various other food types, including Mediterranean and South American. One experience not to be missed is enjoying a dinner accompanied by fado music, which is a traditional part of Portuguese culture.

Cultural diversions aplenty are available at venues around Lisbon, including the Centro Cultural de Belem, the Fundacao Calouste Gulbenkian and the Teatro Aberto, meaning that visitors to this great European capital will never be short of entertainment.

This article is provided by Hotels Hotels Hotels suppliers of cheap hotels in Lisbon

Updated: Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:04:16

Related Links:
Lisbon Tourist Board
Lisbon Airport