Located on the mouth of River Tagus in the Western Iberian Peninsula, Lisbon, just like Rome, is called the “city of seven hills” which are just as romantic as the narrow winding cobblestone paved streets and incredible sites you won’t find in any guidebook.
Getting there
Traveling to Lisbon, Portugal is effortless. While the Lisbon international airport is only minutes away from the city center, the Lisbon Cruise Terminal offers the best conditions tobacco made cruise ships.
The Santa Apolonia is a Mediterranean port of Lisbon that is the most used of the four terminals as it offers easy connections by bus, tram and underground for getting to town from the docks.
When to visit
This quintessential European city is well known for its architectural beauty, culinary pleasures and a sublime climate. June to August are the most popular months if you want to experience the carefree holiday feeling which will linger wherever you go.
Where to stay
Since each of the 7 hills offer a different view of the city, but the places which are more touristy are Baixa Chiado and Rossio, if you don’t mind the high concentration of visitors. For vibrant nightlife and interacting with the locals, the Alfama neighbourhood is the place to stay.
Getting around
Using public transport is by far the best and cheapest way to get from one place to another in Lisbon.
While the funicular operates on the steep hills, buses cover most of the city hotspots, including all the cruise terminals by route 728. The metro, too, is modern and efficient.
Plus walking around Lisbon is an absolute treat in itself.
Top Lisbon Experiences
One of the top things for a solo traveler to do in Lisbon is sign up for a Lisbon food tour, where you get to taste the best products and also get to learn avout Lisbon’s history in company of fellow travelers.
Another must-do activity in Lisbon is the Fado and Food experience which combines a delicious meal with one of the city’s most well-known tradition, fado music.
This program is better for a solo traveler to go to the fado show on your own, as you get to enjoy a wonderful cultural program without having to worry about eating on your own.
Next step into the pages of a fairytale book in Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its grand forts and colorful buildings including the Pena Palace and its romanticist architecture. Beyond this, visit the coastal resorts of Guincho, Cascals and Estoril, with their stunning beaches and resorts.
Traveling on the old wooden trams is also a popular activity, especially on route numbers 15 and 28, which operate from the city center to Belem and to Alfama, as these routes are very picturesque.
Keep in mind, when large cruise ships arrive these trams can get very crowded, so either go as early as possible or late in the afternoon.
Parting advice
Lisbon is a hilly destination, and as such almost all sidewalks and paths are made of cobblestone pavers, not suitable for wheelchair access.
