Print
Email
Bookmark & shareOrientation
Lisbon nestles against seven hills on the north side of the Rio Tejo (Tagus River). Many of the city's attractions are within walking distance of each other in the central city area. Charming, medieval Alfama with its maze-like streets sits to the east, crowned by the magnificent Castelo de São Jorge. The Baixa's grid of tidy commercial avenues lies next to it, stretching from the riverfront Praça do Comércio up to the Praça da Figueira. The elegant Chiado shopping area climbs away to the west, while at the top end of the Baixa, the Elevador de Santa Justa sits at the juncture of the Bairro Alto. A traditional residential area, the Bairro Alto (high quarter) is also home to much of Lisbon's nightlife.
A short tram or train ride along the river to the west is Belém, birthplace of Portugal's Age of Discoveries. The Parque das Nações (former World Expo 98 site) is a train ride northeast of the city. Most budget accommodation can be found in the Baixa and Rossio areas. Mid-range and top-end hotels tend to be in the Saldanha, Marquês de Pombal and Avenida da Liberdade districts. Aeroporto de Lisboa is about 4km northeast of the city centre.
Getting There
Lisbon airport is the city's main international gateway (Portugal's other international airports are at Porto and Faro). All overland connections are through Spain, of course. The two main rail crossings are at Vilar Formoso (the Paris to Lisbon line) and at Marvã-Beirã (the Madrid to Lisbon line). Buses remain the cheapest way to get to Portugal, but not by much. Prices for the alternatives are coming down fast, thanks to the growing attraction of rail passes (even over point-to-point tickets) and the rise of budget airline services.
Getting Around
Lisbon's antediluvian trams are more than just a way to get from A to B - they're an essential Lisbon experience. Similarly, the city's three funiculars are an indispensible part of its charm. There are also trains, a rapidly expanding underground system and buses, which run into the night. Stick to public transport - the manic traffic makes cars or bicycles a stressful option.
Advertisement
Book Your Trip
Travel insurance. Be covered by our recommended partner.
Compare & book flights from 100's of domestic & international airlines.
Hotels & Hostels
Booking hotels is simple with Lonely Planet. See our reviewed and recommended hotels in one place and book online. Browse hotels ›
Lonely Planet Newsletters
Updates, offers and inspiration - straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now ›
Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
