Why Lisbon?
Lisbon is the largest city in Portugal, as well as the capital. If you're visiting Portugal there's no doubt that Lisbon will have a spot on your itinerary.
A little note - Lisbon is written & pronounced Lisboa in Portugal. That's how you'll see it identified across the country and on many Portuguese booking sites - rest assured they're the same place.
An important thing to consider when visiting Lisbon is which neighborhoods you'll want to stay in and visit. Lisbon has six distinct neighborhoods - each with a different atmosphere. Read below to determine which is best for you!
Baixa
Located in the heart of the city, Baixa is the most centralized neighborhood to visit. Avenida da Liberdade runs through this neighborhood, meaning there's no lack of restaurants or things to do. Other attractions include the famous Santa Justa Lift, Rossio Square (where the central station is), and Praça do Comercio.
Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is probably the liveliest neighborhood, especially when it comes to nightlife. Bairro Alto is often considered a more "alternative" neighborhood with its narrow brick alleys and graffiti buildings. Set on a hill, you'll also be able to catch some beautiful views of the São Jorge Castle & the Alfama area. It's a fun atmosphere with fun people.
Chiado
Chiado is arguably the most exquisite neighborhood in Lisbon with its art nouveau-style architecture seen in places like A Brasileira cafe - which famed poet Fernando Pessoa frequented. Chiado is also home to many of Lisbon's notable landmarks, such as the exquisitely tiled Fernando Pessoa, featuring tiles representing Earth, Water, Science, Agriculture, Science, and Industry. Convento do Carmo, the 14th-century roofless church can also be found in this neighborhood. If you want to take a break from sightseeing, pop into one of the luxury boutiques or grab a snack at a cafe. Wherever you choose to visit in Lisbon, make sure you soak up some of the culture in Chiado.
Alfama
Alfama is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and largely survived the famed 1755 earthquake that devastated the surrounding region due to its bedrock foundation. In Alfama, you'll find medieval alleyways, narrow streets, and the São Jorge Castle (which by far has the best panoramic views in all of Lisbon). Alfama is also where the traditional Portuguese Fado music originates. When in Lisbon, it is a must to spend a night at a casa de Fado, which is otherwise known as a Fado Restaurant - enjoy a beautiful live musical performance while indulging in a traditional meal.
Belém
Belém is the westernmost neighborhood in Lisbon, meaning it's not the most convenient location if you're looking to be in the city center. However, this does not mean Belém doesn't deserve a spot on your agenda. This area of Lisbon is rich with history and was the main shipyard of the city. During the 16th century, the sailors who discovered Europe's main sea routes to East Africa, Brazil, and India set off from this area, which brought many riches to Portugal. In addition to its historical shipyard, you'll find two popular landmarks here: The Tower of Belém, which protected the city from enemy attacks on the seafront, and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. The monastery took over 100 years to build, and you'll understand why once you approach the massive structure. History buffs will have a ball in this part of the city.
Parque das Nações Now a lot of historical areas of Lisbon have been mentioned, however, Lisbon is also a city with modern marvels, and that's exactly where Park of the Nationals comes in. Built in 1998 for the Lisbon World Exhibition, this neighborhood hosts a marina, the Lisbon Aquarium (which is rated one of the best in the world!), several beautiful public gardens, and a plethora of restaurants. This part of the city looks quite different from the rest of Lisbon with its ultra-modern architecture but somehow does not seem out of place.
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