Lisbon, the capital of Portugal is a charming city, which amongst the burst of economic boom and cosmopolitan outlook retains its old world charm. The city is built on the hills overlooking the river Tagus where it joins Atlantic Ocean. It’s scenic and because of the proximity to the ocean, the climate is mild, ideal for lovely Lisbon vacations. Lisbon boasts of Art Galleries, Museums, and buildings of fine architecture and beautifully paves pathways of the neighborhood.
Neighborhood Attractions
Baixa: The business district of Lisbon has Ponbaline style architecture. A triumphical arch leads from the town square to Rua Augusta; many Portuguese banks’ headquarters are situated here. The two most important streets of Baixa are Rua da Prata and Rua Aurea. These are the streets of the Silversmiths and Goldsmiths shops. Lisbon travel starts here on the square with a stroll in the streets.
Chiada: Heading west from Baixa, Chiada can easily be called as the shopping district of Lisbon. During Lisbon vacations, nobody can miss this part of the city. Many of the finest shops in the city are situated here. Some old but famous coffee shops here are the gathering point of the city’s literati.
Bairro Alto: This sector of the city reached by trolley car, occupies one of the legendary hills of Lisbon. It is the location of some finest clubs and restaurants of the city. Antique shops also can be found here.
The Alfama: The oldest district of Lisbon, the Alfama is home to anglers and stevedores. Overlooking the Alfama is the St. George Castle. On the way to Alfama, stands another landmark, the Casa doc Bicos, a 16th century townhouse is studded with diamond shaped stones. During Lisbon vacations, the tourists enjoy exploring the townhouses.
Belem: On the coastal road to Estoril lies the suburb of Belem. It contains several monuments of Portugal made in the Age of Discovery. Before the earthquake, Belem was an aristocratic sector filled with elegant town houses. Two main attractions –the Manueline structure and the National Coach museum stand here in Belem.
Ponte Vasco Da Gama, the Vasco Da Gama Bridge spanning to Tagus, speeds up access to other areas of Portugal, including Alentejo province. This entire suburb created along the east bank of the Tagus, it has brought a new railway hub to Lisbon, the Gare De Oriente, which has made Lisbon travel easier. Some new modern structures have changed the skyline of Lisbon, but it retains its great art and architectural structures.
Lisbon is growing and evolving, making it one of the most dynamic cities of Europe. Because of its comfortable pace, friendly occupants, various attractions and great weather, many are attracted to it and they are assured of very enjoyable Lisbon vacations.
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