Attractions and Things to do in Lisbon
For orientation purposes Lisbon can be divided into four main districts. At the heart lies Baixa, the main square with the
Praca do Commercio and surrounding areas offering extensive shopping opportunities. To the east lies the Alfama district; much narrower streets characterize this area of the city. Having suffered the least damage from the earthquake it has been able to preserve much of its medieval character. It is clearly the oldest, most fascinating part of the city,
Castelo de Sao Jorge (St George’s Castle) for example, offers splendid views of the Lisbon. At the opposite end six km (3.5 miles) to west of the city center lies Belem, easily reachable via an inexpensive and enjoyable journey on tram fifteen. Once there you will find the sixteenth century monastery
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos and the
Torre de Belem. Situated on Avenida de Brasilia these are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Beyond this point further east is the
Parque das Nacoes. This site is where Expo 98 and subsequent development into a leisure complex including the
Lisboa Oceanario, one of the largest aquariums in the world, have taken place. The sight’s landmark the
Torre Vasco da Gama is Lisbon’s tallest building and has an observation platform with views over the city. Lisbon’s nightlife district
Bairro Alto can be reached by taking the Elevador da Gloria (funicular) from Praca dos Restauradores. Meanwhile the city’s central park,
Parque Eduardo VII offers some welcome greenery.
