Best Lisbon Attractions
Local Expert Attraction Recommendations
Local Expert Attraction Recommendations
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Best Lisbon Attractions by Area
About Lisbon Attractions
Lisbon celebrates its seafaring heritage with pride. The 16th-century monastery at Bélem houses the tomb of revered Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama and is considered one of the greatest examples of Manueline architecture in the country, its exuberant filigree stonework worthy of UNESCO’s World Heritage moniker.
Visitor attractions abound, but historic monuments define Lisbon’s character. In the narrow lanes of Alfama a ruined Roman theatre still draws an appreciative audience. The landmark castle was once a Moorish stronghold.
Domes, spires and belltowers punctuate the skyline. Adding perspective is the 147-foot Neo-Gothic Elevador de Santa Justa that looms over the Baixa (downtown) district. On the ground, tram number 28 trundles past guidebook favourites, including the handsome cathedral.
Lisbon’s cultural clout is further strengthened by some truly world-class museums. Allow several hours to browse the astonishing treasure trove that is the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian. Similarly, the collection of Asian art imaginatively displayed in the Museu do Oriente requires serious scrutiny.
Fast forward to Parque das Nações northeast of the city. The former Expo 98 site is a contemporary canvas of striking modern architecture – the Oriente railway station is mesmerizing! Alight here for the Oceanário, Lisbon’s most popular tourist attraction.
About Paul Bernhardt
Read more about Paul here.