Discover old-fashioned trams and a serene monastery on city breaks to Lisbon, or dance until dawn on its cobbled streets.
An evening stroll through Alfama, the oldest part of Lisbon, reveals stone-built seafood restaurants blaring out soulful Portuguese guitar music. Step inside for a zesty caipirinha cocktail, or hop aboard a creaking 19th-century tram for the ride up to Bairro Alto, where superstar DJs play almost nightly. At the waterfront end of the Baixa, the city's main shopping area, you'll find buskers serenading the espresso-supping locals. Further up, on a slope overlooking the city, Lisbon's Romanesque cathedral hides gorgeous Gothic treasures.
Best of Lisbon city breaks for...
- Families: Get an aerial view of some of nature's biggest predators at Lisbon Zoo, where a cable car rises over the big outdoor enclosures. The attached amusement park is great for little ones.
- Active types: Walking around Lisbon's sprawling flea market, the Feira da Ladra, is a great way to start short breaks to Lisbon. Keep your eyes peeled for cheap CDs, funky clothes and bargain antiques.
- Relaxing: Craving a bit of peace and quiet? Wander inside Jerónimos Monastery and find a shady spot to sit and admire its Renaissance-style arched cloisters.
- Romance: Book a table for two at an al fresco restaurant in the Baixa district. Whisper sweet nothings to each other over freshly grilled fish dishes and a bottle of local vinho.
- Free & cheap: It doesn't cost a thing to get into the Berardo Collection, one of Europe's best modern art galleries. World-famous paintings by the likes of Andy Warhol can often be spotted here.
Getting into Lisbon from Lisbon International Airport
- The easiest option is to take a taxi from outside the airport. They're cheap, quick (depending on the time of day) and will take you straight to your hotel.
- An even cheaper alternative is the Aerobus, which leaves from outside the main terminal building every 20-30 minutes.
Getting around on weekend breaks in Lisbon
- Public transport Lisbon's metro system links most of the main sights, and is the quickest way to get around town. More stylish (and definitely more fun) are the antiquated trams that wind through the city streets.
- Taxi Taxis are good value and a better option than driving yourself, which can be challenging on Lisbon's busy roads. You'll find it easy to wave one down.
