Lisbon is a growing city with the old world charm that attracts visitors from all over the world. This city is located beautifully in the hills that overlook River Tagus where it joins the Atlantic Ocean. Because of its strategic location, it offers scenic views, a mild and moderate climate and a comfortable getaway for tourists seeking relaxing Lisbon vacations.
Some Secret Attractions Of Lisbon:
Here is an inside look at Lisbon which is not often seen by the casual travelers, but are must visit places in your Lisbon travel program.
Markets of Lisbon: In the heart of the city, there is this big market of Ribeira Nova behind the Cais Do Sodre railway station. Under the enormous roof shelters, you will find the finest produce, used by the restaurants of Lisbon. The fresh produce arrives in the morning by trucks, donkeys, even some balanced by Lisboan women on their head. The fishermen drop their catch at dawn. They bring cod, squid, bass, hake and swordfish and place them on marble counters to sell. While you are on a Lisbon vacation, don’t forget to eat the juiciest peaches and most aromatic tomatoes. The rich soil produces large cabbages and carrots freshly delivered to the markets.
Estufa Fria (The Greenhouse): This is a beautiful park named after Queen Victoria’s son to commemorate these three trips to Lisbon. The park resembles a rainforest with its tropical plants growing enormously against the backdrop of streams and rocks. There is an entry fee of $1.50 for this park. It is one of the major Lisbon attractions.
Other major tourist attractions are the Botanical Garden, the British Cemetery and Auguas Livres Aqueduct. The Aqueduct, built in early 18th century, stretches for about 18 kms and is visible from the highway (N7) that leads to Estoril. Some of the 109 arches are visible above ground, while the rest is underground.
Lisbon used to be one of the safest cities of Europe, but no more so. Especially at night, bandits working in groups of 2 or 3 have been reported to attack tourists. They extract cash, cards, any thing of value and might demand your ATM code too. So while on Lisbon travel, beware of these culprits, take care of your things, and refrain from roaming the deserted streets at night.
For all other services like Doctors, Foreign Exchange, Babysitters, Lost & Found, Transit Information etc., your hotel staff is the best and most trusted source. You can get helpline numbers from them and call yourself too; there is bilingual English speaking help available.
During your Lisbon vacations, make sure you have full information of the places you are going to visit. If you are considering an off-season visit in spring or fall, you will face less tourist traffic and enjoy the sights and structures, culture and spirit of the city in a more relaxed Lisbon vacations.
Comments