3 Days In Lisbon

Blending old-world charm with modern cosmopolitan energy, the population hovers near 545,000, with just over 3 million in the greater metropolitan area.

Due to its location, Lisbon boasts a vast maritime past with scores arriving here by sea since its early discovery, an integration that defines it today.

Upon arrival you’ll be immediately swept up into its sun-drenched streets, distinctive architecture, and laid-back Mediterranean vibe.

Everywhere you look, the city is alive. Denizens and visitors alike bask in the sights, smells, flavors, and sounds of its stunning tiled streets, building façades and captivating waterfront, aromatic coffee houses and bakeries, delicious cafés and restaurants, and thriving bars and music venues.

Getting here is easy via a short European flight or few hours’ drive or train ride. From the U.S it’s about a 6-7-hour flight, depending on your departure city. Arrivals by ferry and cruise ship are common as well.

For centuries the region now encompassing Lisbon was occupied by the Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, and others who fought to control it as a strategic battle outpost near the Atlantic Ocean and later as a major commerce port.

Lisbon was nearly destroyed in 1755 after a massive earthquake and subsequent fires and tsunami. Yet the resilience of its people provided the backbone for rebuilding.

What remerged was a redefined model of distinctive European urban planning accented with pastel colors and tile roofs.

Visitors will find several outstanding UNESCO World Heritage sites in and around Lisbon:

• The Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)
• Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)
• Praça do Comércio (Commercial Plaza)
• Mosteiro da Batalha (Batalha Monastery)
• Convento de Cristo de Tomar (Convent of Christ)

There are many more amazing sites. Even walkways and waterfront to visit many of them have intriguing back stories.

Each extols a distinctive and illuminating piece of history that captivates, educates, and inspires. Historic neighborhoods are plentiful here as well, including Alfama, the oldest, and Chiado, both brimming with life.

Peppered among them all are beautiful cobblestone streets, detailed architectural structures, and those ever-present, picture-perfect, panoramic viewpoints. Gotta love ’em.

Lisbon is definitely a foodie city where fresh fish and seafood are its mainstays. Yet, you’ll also enjoy a wide array of international culinary fare typical of the many cultures that have settled here over time, bringing their own cultural and traditional specialties.

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