Romantic holidays or city break in the Lisbon Region
15.04.2010
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Are you planning a romantic escape in Europe to surprise your loved one? Lisbon region is the perfect destination for an holiday or a weekend break full of romance.
Lisbon, the city of seven hills, full of narrow streets and alleys, closed to the Tagus river, is a city made for romance. Tram 28 will take you through Lisbon historical neighbourhoods like Alfama, Mouraria. Nearby you have Church of Santo António who gained fame as the matchmaking saint, protector of young brides, and patron of the lost and found. Mass marriages known as "St. Anthony's Weddings" are held here during the mid-June St. Anthony's Day celebrations.
Outside Lisbon you can enjoy the magic of Sintra. Take a ride in a horse and carriage through the historic centre of Sintra. Take a walk through the gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, discovering some of the mysterious symbols of the decorative and leisure structures that can be found everywhere throughout the park. You won't have truly seen Sintra unless you pay a visit to Portugal's most romantic palace, the Palácio da Pena. These fantastic palace stands on the top of a hill above the town of Sintra, and on a clear day it can be easily seen from Lisbon and much of its metropolitan area.
Drive to the other side of the Tagus River and take a romantic walk in the Natural park of Serra da Arrábida discovering the mountains and the fantastic beaches around. Admire the wonderful setting of the Convento da Arrábida, visit Palmela and its castle and the fantastic town of Azeitão.
Enjoy your holidays in Lisbon with this routes that were specially made for romance. If you are looking for an accommodation for your romantic holidays or city break in Lisbon, Travelling to Lisbon offers a wide range of apartments in Lisbon historical neighbourhoods and Parque das Nações. Don't forget to check the special offers! There's always promotions and last minute accommodations in Lisbon.
Lisbon museums
15.04.2010
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If you are an art lover or a museum fan, Lisbon is the perfect city for you. Plan an afternoon excursion to the Lisbon museums where you can find fantastic collections of historical and cultural items.
Start at the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga (Ancient Art Museum),in the Lapa district, were you will find some of Portugal's finest ensemble of paintings like the panels of "São Vicente de Fora", one of the most renowned group portraits in the European tradition. This 17th century palace also contains the work of artists like Bosch and its "Temptation of Saint Anthony" and the the Namban Screens that depict the arrival of the Portuguese in Japan in 1543.
In the Belém area there are three museums that should not be missed. The Museu Nacional dos Coches (Coaches Museum) - Lisbon's most frequented attraction, the world's best coach museum contains an impressive collection of coaches dating from the 17th to the 19th centuries - , the Museu da Marinha (Navy Museum) where you can find Portugal's glorious contributions to nautical expedition and the recent Museu Berardo (Berardo Museum of Modern Art) where you can appreciate one of the world's most acclaimed modern art collections.
In the Chiado area, one of the city's historical neighbourhoods, the Museu do Chiado (chiado Museum), offers you a tour through the Portuguese contemporary art. For more contemporary Portuguese art there's also the Gulbenkian Foundation's Modern Art Center and the Arpad Szenes - Vieira da Silva Museum.
If you want to know Portugal better don't miss the Fado Museum in the Alfama district and the Azulejo National Museum, near Santa Apolónia, a tribute to a most cherished aspect of Portuguese history. Exhibits trace more than 500 years of this remarkable art form with several thousand examples on hand.
Check in the Travelling to Lisbon website fantastic accommodations in the wonderful city of Lisbon. Travelling to Lisbon provides the best holiday serviced apartments in all this locations.
Spring holidays in Lisbon, Portugal
26.03.2010
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Springtime arrives and with it comes Easter and the spring holidays. If you are unsure of where you want to go, and are looking for a great place to go for your next springtime vacation, why not consider Lisbon, Portugal?
Lisbon is thought to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, full of wonderful art and architecture, history and nightlife. Lisbon also has some of the mildest weather throughout Europe, thanks to its Mediterranean climate. In the spring, days are generally mild, or even warm during daytime.
The Tagus River runs through Portugal's capital city, and lends a wonderful atmosphere to the metropolis. Dine in one of many lovely restaurants along the banks. The old city is located in the heart of Lisbon, and the city spreads out from there. Alfama is Lisbon'soldest district , with narrow streets and shops. In Alfama you will come across the Lisbon Cathedral, the St George Castle, handicraft shops, and Fado Bars.
At night, if you are up for going out and enjoying the nightlife with the local youths, the place to hit is Bairro Alto. Parque das Nações is also a fantastic place to enjoy the nightlife, with restaurants and the great Lisbon Casino.
Museums, shops, cafes and entertainment galore await the traveller in this stunning Portuguese city.
Combine your Spring holidays in Lisbon with a visit to Sintra and enjoy the natural atmosphere complimented by impressive architecture. Lisbon has access to beaches so why don't take a walk near the sea?
When it comes to accommodation in any European capital one thing is for sure: regardless of when you travel, there is always a place available to sleep.
If a hotel is a bit too high for your budget or a bit impersonal, then self-catering apartments in Lisbon will surely be within your price range and much more private. Travelling to Lisbon offers an excellent service rent for apartments in Lisbon. An excellent choice for your holidays in Lisbon. Don't forget to check the springtime offers on the Last Minute section.
Miradouros – Lisbon viewpoints
12.02.2010
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Lisbon has fantastic viewpoints over the city. Called Miradouros, they are located at the highest points of Lisbon's seven hills.
You might feel very tired while wander around the narrow streets and staircases of Lisbon's old neighbourhoods like Alfama, Graça or the castle district, but take heart in the fact that they lead to heavenly Miradouros.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia
A small terrace near the Church of Santa Luzia has been laid out as a viewpoint. There is an excellent view of the Tagus River, the harbour, the rooftops of Alfama and its maze of small streets dominated by the bell-towers of São Miguel and Santo Estêvão. On the wall marking the south side of the square is an azulejo showing a general view of Lisbon.
Miradouro Senhora do Monte
This is the highest point in Lisbon. A small square next to the church of Santa Luzia, laid out as a belvedere with a superb view over the Tagus River, the harbour and, lower down, over the Alfama‘s rooftops and maze of streets. The bell-towers of São Miguel and Santo Estêvão are visible as well as St George's castle and the Mouraria neighbourhood.
Miradouro da Graça
A splendid viewpoint offering a panoramic view of the Lisbon's castle and Lisbon centre. Young Lisboetas flock to this pine-fringed square at dusk for sundowners and sweeping vistas over Lisbon.
Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara
This strategic viewpoint has a great view of the St. George's Castle and of historical Lisbon. Located close to Baixa and Restauradores, Lisbon's downtown, this spot is frequented by the youth of the city. Perfect for a lover's walk. Note that the prettiest way to get here is by the Elevador da Glória.
Feira da Ladra, Lisbon's famous flea market
18.12.2009
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With origins in the Middle Ages, the Feira da Ladra, that literally means "Thieves Market" is the oldest market in Lisbon that still takes place nowadays.
The market took place originally near the St George's Castle, and later at the Rossio central square. Since 1882 until today, this flea market is situated in the Campo de Santa Clara street, just behind São Vicente de Fora church in the Alfama district. The best way to enter Feira de Ladra is through the arch ‘Arco de São Vicente' where the famous Tram 28 stops.
Every Tuesday and Saturday from the sunrise until it sets, in tents, tables or on the floor, the Feira da Ladra exposes its products, mainly antiques and second hand items.
At the Feira da Ladra visitors may find antiques, ceramics and objects in glass, old and modern books, photographs, coins and stamps, furniture, new and used clothes, shoes, military artefacts, vinyl's, cd's and what else imagination can conceive. Everything can be found in the Feira da Ladra at reduced prices, right in the heart of an historical quarter of Lisbon.
Top 5 Things in Lisbon on a Weekend Break
09.12.2009
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One of Europe's most popular cities - Lisbon is an ideal destination for a weekend break. With fantastic museums and galleries, restaurants, bars and much more, Lisbon is a superb city for an European weekend break.
St. Jorge Castle and Alfama
The Castelo de Sao Jorge (St. George Castle) is one of Lisbon's major tourist attractions, offering splendid panoramic views across the tile roofed houses of Rossio and the cool blue waters of the Tagus River.
Take a walk in the narrow streets of Alfama. This is the oldest district of Lisbon, spreading on the slope between the St. George Castle and the Tagus River. In the slopes of Alfama there are other terraces (called miradouros) from which you can see the city, like the Miradouro de Santa Luzia and the Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Among the churches of the Alfama are Lisbon Cathedral, the Convento da Graça, the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora, and the National Pantheon.
If you want to rent an apartment for your weekend break in Lisbon, see the suggestions we have for you in Alfama Area.
Baixa Pombalina - Chiado
Chiado is a cultural point of Lisbon and an elegant shopping area with all sorts of facilities and street entertainment. Here you will find theatres, bookshops, museums, restaurants and famous Portuguese fashion houses. The Carmo area, next to the Chiado, has some of the most fascinating historical sites in the city, such as the Convent and Church of Carmo, which maintain their elegance and grandeur. Carmo is connected to the Baixa Pombalina by the Elevador de Santa Justa, another of Lisbon's icons. The Baixa is the city's traditional shopping district. Rua Augusta is the main artery of the Baixa Pombalina leading north from Terreiro do Paço (known as Black Horse Square by the English), to the beautiful Praça do Rossio (Praça Dom Pedro V).
Spend your Lisbon's short break in an apartment in Baixa or an accommodation in Chiado.
Bairro Alto
The Bairro Alto is one of the most characterful and attractive neighbourhoods in Lisbon. Small restaurants, Fado houses, bars, pubs and Cafés as well as some unusual, expensive shops are all around the streets, lanes and alleys. Bairro Alto is the heart of Lisbon's youth culture and nightlife.
Search for apartments in Bairro Alto.
Belém
In Belém district you have several things to do. Visit the Torre de Belém (Belem Tower), the Jerónimos Monastery and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos. Take a walk at the Belém gardens and go eat a creamy and flaky custard tart at Antiga Confeitaria de Belém. Don't miss a visit to Belem Cultural Center (Centro Cultural de Belém), the host of international exhibitions and other cultural events, from theatre to dance, from classical music to jazz, from opera to cinema.
Check here our suggestions for cheap short term rentals in Lisbon historic centre and Belem area.
Parque das Nações - Old Expo'98
The Park offers numerous attractions both during the day and at night. Visit the Lisbon Oceanarium, the Lisbon Casino, the Pavilion of Portugal, the Pavilion of Knowledge or attend live concerts in the Atlantic Pavilion. Discover the Orient Station and go shopping in the Vasco da Gama Shopping Center.
Spend your weekend break in Lisbon apartments, Parque das Nações - Expo.
Tourism Guides of Lisbon available on Mobile Phones
04.12.2009
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Visits to Lisbon, Estoril, Sintra, Oeiras and Mafra have now been made easier thanks to the new YouGo Tourism Guides for mobile phones. With a simple click, these guides will allow visitors, both Portuguese and foreigners to choose their favourite tour and enjoy some of the suggestions from Culture to Cuisine, as well as updated weather information.
With the slogan You Go - You Know, these guides - Insight, feature YouGo Lisboa, YouGo Costa do Estoril, YouGo Mafra, YouGo Oeiras and YouGo Sintra versions, allowing users to "travel" through a certain city or region, using their mobile phones. This service may be purchased at 16 tourism outlets in the Lisbon area, namely Ask Me Lisboa, Estoril, Cascais and Ericeira, as well as Sintra, Mafra and Oeiras. They can also be bought at the site itself - YouGoplanet.com -, and the Lisbon Tourism site - askmelisboa.com -, as well as at hotels, restaurants and other retail outlets.
This product's sale features two options: the first more directed to the foreign tourist market, with a duration of three weeks and a cost of five euros. The second option is aimed at Portuguese and local tourists, costs seven euros and is valid for one year. Once downloaded onto the mobile phone - which can be done during a tourism outing - the subscriber will be able to access detailed information distributed on different channels: What to Visit, What to Do, Where to Eat, Where to Stay, Services and Shopping. Subscribers can this gain immediate access to monuments, museums, local attractions, tours, golf courses, beaches, tourism entertainment and nightlife, as well as other retail centres and a wide variety of useful services. It's worth noting that YouGo Lisboa has been divided into seven areas of greatest interest: Bairro Alto, Alfama, Baixa-Chiado, Belém, Docas-Alcântara, Parque das Nações and Nova Lisboa.
If you want to look for an accommodation in Bairro Alto, apartments in Alfama, Parque das Nações, Baixa or Chiado, please check Traveling to Lisbon's website.
Lisbon Tram 28
26.11.2009
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The most unique way to explore Lisbon is by its yellow traditional trams. This method of public transport in Portugal has become one of the most appealing attractions in the city. The tram 28, considered a national treasure, takes you on a tour by a selection of old Lisbon's sights, past historic buildings and traditional housing. Inaugurated in 1914, between Largo Camões and Estrela, the tram 28 route has been successively extended over the years.
In fact, Tram 28 covers the most picturesque route in Lisbon. It runs from Largo Martim Moniz to Prazeres, via the Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, São Bento and Estrela.
Leaving Martim Moniz, the tram 28 continues through a labyrinth of narrow streets. Discover Mouraria and Alfama and while you are there, go and see the Miradouro da Graça which boasts fantastic views of the city. Continuing the route along Tram 28 will take you to the Royal Pantheon, São Vincente de Fora Church, one of the most imposing and notable religious monuments in the city, and the famous Feira da Ladra. It is held from Tuesday to Saturday and is one of the most popular in Lisbon. The Tram continues its route to Largo Portas do Sol, Miradouro de Santa Luzia with its traditional mosaic and the Sé Cathedral.
28 continues is route to Chiado quarter and Largo Luis de Camões until S. Bento. Running up Lisbon's hills, the tram 28 arrives to Estrela. Facing the gardens is the Basílica da Estrela, in late baroque and neo-classical style. Taking the streets Domingos Sequeira and Saraiva de Carvalho the tram finally arrives at Campo de Ourique right next to the final resting place of the famous, the Cemitério dos Prazeres (Prazeres Cemetery).
There are many choices amongst the 35 stops of tram 28 for places to get off and discover the Lisbon's heritage.
Lisbon climate and weather
20.11.2009
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Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate that is strongly influenced by the Gulf Stream, giving it one of the mildest climates in Europe. The city offers a mild and temperate climate and is sunny throughout the year.
In Lisbon, summers are warm and dry with average daytime temperatures of 26-29°C, falling to 16-18°C at night. Winters are cool and rainy with temperatures around 8-15°C, while spring and fall are generally mild, or even warm during daytime.
The warm afternoons are favourable for a nice walk by the river Tagus in Belém area and Parque das Nações or for a well-spent afternoon in one of the many street cafés in Lisbon's downtown (Baixa) or Chiado. But even rain can be romantic if you're winding in Alfama's narrow streets; the charms of rain can usually be felt between December and March.
As the result of the regular mild and balmy evenings in Lisbon, many of the restaurants, especially in Bairro Alto, remaining open late, together with the bars and clubs.
Extreme temperatures may reach 36°C in some of the warmest summer afternoons and 2°C in the coldest winter mornings.
Apartments in Alfama - the oldest district of Lisbon
06.11.2009
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Alfama is the oldest district of Lisbon, spreading on the slope between the St George Castle and the Tagus river.
The Lisbon earthquake in 1975 did not destroy the Alfama district, which has remained a picturesque labyrinth of narrow streets and small squares. Lately the neighbourhood has been invigorated with the renovation of the old houses and new restaurants where Fado can be enjoyed.
Visiting Alfama is to visit the architecture, the sounds and the smells of old Lisbon.
If you are looking for apartments in Alfama, Lisbon, see the accommodations we recommend:
Apartment in Lisbon 30 - Santa Clara/Alfama
This wonderful design apartment in Alfama is on the first floor of a building on Campo de Santa Clara, the place where the most famous flea market of Lisbon (Feira da Ladra - thieves' market) is held, every Tuesday and Saturday.
Apartment in Lisbon 37 - Alfama
Apartment 37 is wonderful flat located on the 3rd floor of a building from the 18th century, at Alfama one of the oldest parts of Lisbon.
Apartment in Lisbon 39 - Alfama
Apartment 39 in Alfama is a studio located on the ground floor of an ancient building. In the way it is renovated you can still see the structure of the old building's construction (an amazing stone arch). This apartment in Alfama is a short walking distance from the other picturesque neighbourhoods of Baixa and Castle.
Apartment in Lisbon 48 - Alfama
Apartment 48 is a charming, sunny apartment for your holidays in the beautiful old Alfama district of Lisbon. In this one bedroom apartment, though small, sleeps three people. It was recently renovated with old Portuguese style.
Apartment in Lisbon 49 - Graça/Alfama
This stylish high standard apartment is on the first floor of a building in Graça neighbourhood. Nearby you have various forms of traditional commerce, and it is walking distance from the majority of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Lisbon.
