About
Lisbon, known in Portuguese as Lisboa, is the capital of Portugal and the main city of the Lisbon District. It sits on the Atlantic coast of western Europe, built across a series of hills that rise from the Tagus estuary, so a visit often involves a good deal of walking up and down.
The city is recognised for its colourful tiled buildings, which give many streets and façades their distinctive look. Its historic trams are another part of the experience. Riding one through the narrow, steep streets is a pleasant way to see the city at a slower pace.
What a visit offers
- Architecture and streetscapes: the tiled façades and hillside neighbourhoods reward unhurried wandering.
- Trams: the historic lines are both a way of getting around and a sight in their own right.
- Coast: Lisbon's position on the Atlantic means beautiful beaches are within reach of the city.
Planning your trip
Because the terrain is hilly, comfortable shoes are worth packing. Allow time to combine city exploration with a day by the sea, which the city's coastal location makes practical. Lisbon suits visitors who enjoy a city with a strong sense of place, where the tiles, trams and views shape the everyday character of the streets.
