Lisbon has very convenient means of transport. A city of seven hills and a river running through, it is quite easy to navigate as trams, rail, and cabs are available at affordable costs. It is good to know some of the places to visit before planning your Lisbon Vacation.
Castelo do sao George:
This ancient castle has been a fortress since the fifth century AD, and is situated on a hill near the Tagus river. A good place to relax and walk around on the hilly slopes, the Castelo do sao George is a treat to tourists. There is a multimedia show screened during the daytime which gives a glimpse into the history and culture of Lisbon.
Alfama:
Alfama may be termed as the oldest part of Lisbon and stretches down the hillside below the castle. It retains the old traditions and culture of Lisbon. One must see the works of architecture, the old beautiful churches, historic buildings and displays of coat of arms showing old aristocratic Lisbon.
Se (Cathedral):
Though it may not be very attractive from outside, it was the first church to be built in Lisbon and boasts of some ancient relics like the font where St Antony was baptized.
Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Museum:
Do not miss this museum during your Lisbon vacation if you are a lover of antiques as it houses one of the world’s finest art collections. It has a wide collection of antiques, ceramics, textiles, lacquer ware from different civilizations and is a place worth seeing. The place also hosts cultural shows, work exhibitions, art exhibitions and performing arts.
Monument to Discoveries:
This spot is situated at Belem, where river Tagus meets the sea, the place from which marine explorers began their historic expedition to discover the world. The monument is a huge caravel with Prince Henry at the helm and behind him renowned explorers and other patrons.
Tower of Belem:
The tower is located on the river Tagus and is one of Lisbon’s most photographed monuments. It is one of the Lisbon sights one should definitely see as it is very beautifully adorned on the outside with stone carved rope, lovely balconies with watchtowers and battlements shaped as shields.
Parque das Nacoes:
Renamed after hosting expo 98 this place has become one of Lisbon’s main attractions. The place offers several areas worth seeing like the Lisbon oceanarium which holds about 15000 living marine beings. There is also the Virtual Realty Pavilion which shows the glorious discoveries by Portuguese explorers.
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