On the most western European edge situated Lisbon is one of the most beautiful capitals of the old world. It combines european and arabic influences, tradition of a once great empire and hopes of a new united Europe.
The city can be easily explored because of the good public transport and especially the fast, reliable and affordable Metro.
One hint: If you are not particular keen on lots of museums don't buy the Lisboa-Pass the public transport is cheap enough.
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| Favourite spots: |
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The western edge of the town close to Torre Belem at sunset - that's what it must have looked like when the caravelas of the explorers and merchants came back. From the aerial railway in the Expo-area the river tejo where one of the largest bridges of Europe can be seen. From the Castelo Sao Jorge most parts of the city can be overssen including the fantastic red bridge over the river Tejo.
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| What's really great: |
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A ride with one of the old trams (esp. line 28 start at Largo Martim Moniz) is a must. It is just impressive how they circle around the old town of Alfama and by the way it's a cheap way to see lots of sights.
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| Sights: |
Where to start?
The musts include Castelo Sao Jorge, the elevadores which connect downtown with upper quarters (the look like modified) trams.
In Belem: The Torre de Belem, El Mosterio dos Jeronimas (with the sarkopharg of Vasco da Gama), the Museo Naciinal dos Coches (a fantastic collection of horsepower-driven coaches).
The Pavilhao Carlos Lopes in the Parque Eduardo VII with the best example of Azulejo-Art (colored tiles used to revet house walls).
The fantastic Metro-stations (especially up to the Patque dos Naciones) - they are pieces of art with paintings or statues.
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| Accommodations: |
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There are lots of accomodations in every prize range. If you go outside the main season (we went January 2nd-January 5th) you can get really good weekend packages even in the up-market hotels, such as Le Meridien.
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| Hangouts: |
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Go to the Ginginha close to the Rossio (very popular Square in Lisbon's downtown: Baxia). It's just a hole in the wall and it serves just one thing Ginginha - a delicious Cherry-Liqour (50 cent). The place is hard to miss lot's of people standing in front of it and chat.
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| Restaurants: |
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Cervejaria Portugalia (Av. Almirante Reis 117) it's a Lisbon Institution with good selfbrewed beer and affordable good food. Very popular with locals.
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| Other recommendations: |
You can see Azulejos all over the place with different motives.
Fábrica dos Pastéis de Belém - a cafe that serves excellent pastries (near the Monesterio dos Jerónimos).
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Published on Sunday June 22th, 2003
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