Lisbon
Below are a few photos of our time in Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a beautiful city facing the Tagus Sea estuary.
Lisbon is a beautiful capital which gives the visitor both the excitement of visiting a European city on a city break as well being near to many local beaches for a relaxing break.
The city has an eclectic mix of architecture from the ornate pastel coloured buildings covered with beautiful ceramic tiles called Azulejo to the grand Moorish castle of São Jorge which sits on a hill overlooking the city.
There are undulating cobbled streets, some which are paved with mosaic or calçada Portuguese floors.
A vintage tram system runs through the city passing the stunning cathedral.
The tram network is an integral part of the Lisbon transport system and is a must when visiting the city. The historic 1930s “Remodelado” trams are still in service now because their compact size is perfect for the narrow hilly streets of Lisbon. The most famous route is E28 which travels through the Alfama District and passes directly in front of the ancient Se Cathedral, perfect for tourists.
Elevador de Santa Justa
The Elevador de Santa Justa is a wrought-iron viewing tower designed by Raul Mesnier de Ponsard, a student of Gustave Eiffel. A beautiful victorian elevator assends 45 metres to a viewing platform. The tower was originally designed to transport passengers up the steep hill from the Baixa district to the Largo do Carmo and the ruins of the Carmo church.
The tower now gives excellent views of the city.
The views of Lisbon are impressive, whether they are from the São Jorge Castle, Lisbon’s Moorish castle; or from Elevador de Santa Justa. The main square – Praça do Comércio is located on the seafront and is a great place to meet and relax.
Belem is a great place to visit. It’s has monuments, historical buildings and beautiful tropical gardens. Don’t forget to get your famous Portuguese tarts from Pasteis de Belem situated on the main road.
Belem
Belem is a district of Lisbon. The Torre de Belem (Belem Tower), The Mosteiro Dos Jeronimos and Padrao dos Descobrimentos are three of the main attractions in Belem.
The Torre de Belem is a small fort that protected the city from sea bound attacks.
The Mosteiro Dos Jeronimos is a beautiful monastery complex. Vasco da Gama spent his last night here before his epic voyage to India.
Padrao dos Descobrimentos is an imposing monument dedicated to the greatest Portuguese discoveries. It has an amazing 52 metre high panoramic viewing point. On the piazza in front of the monument is an impressive mosaic map showcasing the extent of the Portuguese worldwide influence.
Sintra
Sintra is a resort town near Lisbon. The area is a famous retreat for portuguese royalty. Quinta da Regaleira has a beautiful 20th century house and gardens including the Initiation Well.
Pena Palace was a royal retreat high up on a hill in the Sintra district. It’s now an UNESCO World Heritage site.
Sanctuary of Christ the King
Inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio De Janeiro, the Sanctuary of Christ the King monument overlooks Lisbon. The Sanctuary of Christ the King monument is situated on top of a cliff in Almada
Highlights we experienced
Belem
Elevator Santa Justa
Lisbon Castle
Sintra
Portugeuse tarts
Time Out Food market
Be mindful of…
The crowds at Sintra. Make sure you plan which place in Sintra you would like to visit as it’ll probably be the only place you will visit during the day.
All images of Lisbon are copyright of PBKphotos 2017