Ten things to do in Lisbon, Portugal

A symbol of the Age of Discovery - Torre de Belem

Built in 1515 as a fortress to guard the entrance to Lisbon's harbour, the Belem Tower was the starting point for many voyages of discovery. Serving as a symbol of the country, it is a monument to Portugal's Age of Discovery, a time in which extensive overseas exploration emerged as a powerful factor in European culture.

Reveal the Rooftops of Alfama

One of the oldest districts of Lisbon, Alfama has remained a picturesque labyrinth of narrow streets and small squares. Get the best view of Alfama's red rooftops from Miradouro de Santa Luzia. From here you can see the wonderful views over the tiled roods of Alfama and out across the Tejo Estuary.

Be lifted up by the beautifully crafted Santa Justa Elevator

Transporting passengers from the Baixa district up to the ruins of the Igreja do Carmo church, the Santa Justa Elevator is an industrial-age marvel. Glorious neo-gothic arches form the outer ironwork structure, and the view from the top platform over central Lisbon is spectacular.

Lisbon's tallest building - Vasco da Gama Tower

Named after one of Portugal's greatest explorers, and opened in 1998, Vasco da Gama Tower measures 145 metres high, making it Lisbon's tallest building. At the top is a viewing platform that provides stunning views of Lisbon, Vasco da Gama Bridge and the river. In the shape of a sail, you'll feel like you're sailing over Lisbon from the top of the tower.

The ancient seat of power for Portugal - Castle of Sao Jorge

Standing majestically above central Lisbon, the Castle of Sao Jorge stood as the ancient seat of power for over 400 years. The battlements of the castle provide breathtaking views of the Baixa district and the Rio Tejo, while being steeped in history of the introduction of Christianity to Portugal during the Crusades.

Frolic in the waves at sunny Cascais

A trio of golden bays attracts sun-worshippers who come to splash in the ice-cold waters of the Atlantic. With winding lanes leading to museums, gardens and alfresco restaurants, there is more to do than just lying on the beach. In the evening, lively bars fuel the nightlife. The perfect day-trip from Lisbon at only a 30 minute drive away.

Stand in awe at the might of Jeronimos Monastery

Portugal's most impressive symbol of power and wealth during the Age of Discovery is Jeronimos Monastery, built in 1502 by King Manuel I. With the architecture in the style known as Manueline, each column of the building is carved with different coils of rope, sea monsters, coral and other motifs evocative of sea explorations. It is easy to spend a day here just to study the sculptures and carvings on the walls.

Live it up in lively Rossio Square

In the centre of Lisbon sits Rossio Square, where people stop to sit and relax or go for a drink in one of the atmospheric surrounding cafes. Notorious within Portugal is the 19th Century wave pattern design in the cobblestones, which the square has been paved with. Gaze upon the monument of Dom Pedro IV, a stunning 27 metre high marble masterpiece while you take in the sounds of the lively square.

A page torn from a fairy tale - Sintra

A scenic 30 minute car ride away from Lisbon is the quaint resort town of Sintra. With rippling mountains, exotic gardens, and glittering palaces, there's no wonder why it has been listed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Celts worshipped their moon god here, the Moors built a precipitous castle, and 18th Century Portuguese royalty strolled through its dreamy gardens. It's the must-do day trip.

View the spectacular artwork inside Madre de deus Convent

Situated in Xabregas on the western area of Lisbon, the Madre de Deus Convent was built in 1509. Today, housing the Glazed Tile Museum, it represents the importance of art and architecture in the Portuguese culture. The collection includes an historical description, along with technical and artistic evolution in Portugal.