Joanna James
Lisbon, is the capital of Portugal and is one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe, let's look at the top sights in Lisbon.
Regarded as one of the best attractions in the city, this must not be missed. Torre de Belem soars high up above the seafront of the Lisbon quays. The massive gorgeous towers display a veritable mix of architectural styles from the Gothic to the Romanesque and the Mudejar to the Moorish. The tower was constructed in the 16th century under the patronage of Saint John and has since stood the test of time over the mouth of the Tagus River. Today, it has become such an iconic location within the city that many people from all over the world frequent. It is famed as the last sight, most adventurers like Vasco da Gama would have witnessed as they made their way out into the sea. If you're searching for accommodation in the city, there'll be many on offer like the AVANI Avenida Liberdade for instance.
Not unlike San Francisco within the United States, Lisbon too is famed for its iconic rattling tram lines. The most famed being Tram 28. This tram has been in operation in the Alfama district for decades, working its way up steep cobbled roads that lead up into the old district. The ride starts down the palm spotted hills in Graca and makes its way towards the hairpin alleys of Escolas Gerais, before ending right beneath the beautiful domes of the Estrela Basilica. Looking through the windows, you'll have an amazing opportunity to observe the people, culture, and the decades of history that surrounds the area as you pass the many iconic palaces and castles on route.
Most of Europe's ancient capitals have old town centres and Lisbon is no different with the compact little Alfama District. Similar to the Forum of Rome, this is considered the oldest section of the city that dates all the way back to the Moors of Africa. Making your way through the warren of winding streets and multiple alleys that make up the district, you'll come across so much history and architecture that spark your curiosity. The district today is a massive tourist attraction. Along the way, you'll come across great cathedrals such as the Lisbon Cathedral.
Sintra is a different city that exists a mere half hour away from Lisbon. Things to do, however, are not limited. This city is often frequented by tourists on a day trip, while most others spend a few days exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area sits up high amidst the Mountains of the Moon, showcasing elegant baroque churches, colourful mansions and a whole slew of grand palaces that belonged to former Portuguese royalty.
Portugal is known as the land of tiles. And none makes it more evident than Lisbon's National Tile Museum. The complex showcases the history of tile making and all its relative technologies from ages ago when the Moors first introduced it to Iberia.
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