Lisbon
Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal's coastal capital, is one of Europe's most captivating cities. With its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and steep hills, the city offers stunning views at every turn. The yellow trams that navigate the narrow streets have become iconic symbols of Lisbon, especially Tram 28 which takes you through many historic neighborhoods.
The city is known for its warm climate, with over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a perfect destination year-round. Lisbon's rich history spans over 3,000 years - it's actually one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, even older than Rome. After surviving a devastating earthquake in 1755, the city was rebuilt with wide avenues and elegant squares.
Portuguese cuisine deserves special mention - from the famous pastéis de nata (custard tarts) to fresh seafood dishes like bacalhau (salted cod). The Fado music, Portugal's soulful traditional genre, fills the air in neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto as the sun sets.
Lisbon strikes a perfect balance between preserving its historical charm and embracing modernity, with thriving art scenes, innovative restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. The Portuguese capital offers exceptional value compared to other European capitals, making it not just beautiful but also budget-friendly.
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Things to do in Lisbon
Top things to do in Lisbon by www.timeout.com
Where to stay in Lisbon
Best hotels in Lisbon:
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Hotel Botanico (budget hotel)
Hotel Botanico is located between Avenida da Liberdade and the university's Botanical Gardens. It's just a quick 5-minute walk from the Avenida Metro Station, making it super easy to get around the city.
The rooms are comfy and come with all the essentials - air conditioning, minibars, and flat-screen TVs. In the morning, you can fuel up with a tasty breakfast in their breakfast room. They've got a nice spread with different breads, cereals, yogurts and fruits to choose from.
After a day of exploring Lisbon, it's great to come back and unwind in the lounge with a glass of Portuguese wine. The staff are really friendly and helpful too. And if you need to stay connected, they've got free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. It's a solid choice if you want to be close to the action but still have a quiet place to rest your head at night.
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Suites Luciano Cordeiro (homestay)
Suites Luciano Cordeiro is simple but have everything you need - comfy beds, private bathrooms, AC, and free wifi. It's super convenient, with a bunch of metro stations just a short walk away, making it easy to explore the city.
One of the best things about this place is how clean it is. Guests rave about how spotless the rooms are, with daily housekeeping to keep things tidy. The staff are friendly and helpful too. As a nice bonus, they even provide a basic breakfast to get your day started.
While the rooms aren't huge, they're comfortable and offer great value for the price and location. It's perfect if you want a clean, central place to crash after a day of sightseeing without breaking the bank. Just keep in mind it's in an older building, so you'll need to climb some stairs to get to your room.
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BessaHotel Liberdade (luxury hotel)
BessaHotel Liberdade is steps away from top attractions, shopping, and restaurants. The rooms are spacious and modern, with comfy beds and sleek bathrooms.
One of the best perks is the indoor pool and wellness area, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The breakfast gets rave reviews too. While not over-the-top luxurious, it's a solid 4-star option with friendly service and all the amenities you need for a great stay in Lisbon.
If you're looking for a centrally-located hotel with nice rooms and good facilities, BessaHotel Liberdade is a great choice. The combo of prime location, comfortable rooms, and that indoor pool make it stand out from other mid-range options in the area.
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Hotel MeraPrime Gold Lisboa (medium range hotel)
Hotel MeraPrime Gold Lisboa offers a prime spot in the heart of Lisbon's historic downtown. Just a short walk from Commerce Square and the Tagus River, it's perfectly positioned for exploring the city's top sights.
The stylish rooms come with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free WiFi. Some even offer river views. Downstairs, the hotel's restaurant doubles as a cozy cafe, serving up tasty breakfasts and snacks throughout the day.
Location is definitely the standout feature here. You're right in the middle of the action, with major attractions, restaurants, and transport links all on your doorstep. The lively Bairro Alto neighborhood is just a short stroll away too. For a comfortable stay in a unbeatable central location, Hotel MeraPrime Gold Lisboa ticks all the boxes.
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Best hostels in Lisbon:
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Draft Hostel & Rooms (hostel)
Draft Hostel & Rooms is steps away from major sights like St. George's Castle and Rossio Square. The rooms are simple but comfy, with options for private doubles or dorm-style bunks.
The common areas are where this place really shines. There's a nice shared lounge to hang out in, and the kitchen is great for whipping up a quick meal or snack. The staff are super friendly and always happy to give tips on the best local spots to check out.
Breakfast is included and gets good reviews from guests. With free WiFi throughout and 24-hour reception, it's got all the essentials covered for a fun, budget-friendly stay in Lisbon. The central location means you can easily walk to tons of restaurants, bars and attractions nearby. Overall, it's a solid choice if you want a social vibe and unbeatable location without breaking the bank.
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Independente Príncipe Real (party hostel)
Independente Príncipe Real former palace has been transformed into a trendy hostel with both dorms and private rooms. The location can't be beat - you're steps away from viewpoints, restaurants, and nightlife in Bairro Alto.
The decor mixes Art Deco style with quirky modern touches. Rooms have high ceilings and some offer awesome city views. There's a hip restaurant and bar on-site where you can grab drinks or dinner made with local ingredients.
One of the best parts is the laid-back vibe. It's easy to meet other travelers in the common areas or join one of the hostel's events. Whether you're looking to party or just chill out, Independente Príncipe Real is a great home base for exploring Lisbon.