Investigating Portugal’s Capital

The Portuguese capital is the perfect destination for a short break, with its easy charm and good looks. Its famous nightlife overshadows its reputation but Lisbon contains many historical and cultural gems that are worth investigating. This article highlights some of the many exciting attractions along with information on the best places to stay, eat and party.

The Cathedral is of huge historical interest. It was founded in the mid twelfth century to commemorate the city’s reconquest from the Moors and sits on the site of the principal mosque of Moorish Lishbuna. It was badly damaged during the Great Earthquake of 1755 but was extensively restored in the 1930s. The Castelo de São Jorge is another fascinating sight, containing the restored remains of the Moorish palace. The camera obscura in the Tower of Ulysses on the site offers astounding 360 degree views of the city. Be sure to take a walk through the Alfama Quarter, which stretches from the walls of the Castelo to the banks of the River Tejo and is the oldest part of Lisbon. It provides a glimpse into traditional Portuguese culture, having been the residence of the fishing community for hundreds of years.

Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to Lisbon’s eating establishments. For seafood, head to the Rua das Portas de Santo, a central street which specialises in it. The Antiga Confeitaria de Belém is deservedly famous for its delicious custard tarts and is a great place to watch the world go by. For a full evening meal, Resto serves tapas and barbecued meat in its lively courtyard whilst more expensive international cuisine is on offer in the upstairs restaurant. Both offer gorgeous views of the river.

Lisbon has an exhilarating atmosphere at night, when multitudes of revellers come out to play. Warm up in A Tasca, a cheerful and friendly tequila bar in the Bairro Alto. You could follow this by trying your luck at Lux, Lisbon’s premier and in demand night club which has played host to the set of many a famous DJ. If the queue proves too long, make your way to Kapital, a stylish club popular with a young local crowd.

Stay at the Residencial Dom Sancho I, a friendly hotel with superb rooms. It often has special offers running which are worth looking out for. When booking your hotel, remember also that travel insurance is essential for any holiday. Make sure you get a great deal for your money by comparing insurers. Getting to Lisbon is straightforward as the airport is well-linked to the rest of Europe by the budget airlines, with increased services in the summer months. When in the city, get around using the efficient metro and the tram systems.

For great deals on travel insurance at competitive prices and top quality cover visit Go Travel Insurance.

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