Exploring the Vibrant Culture of Lisbon: Must-Visit Neighborhoods and Landmarks

Introduction:

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. From its charming cobblestone streets to its breathtaking viewpoints, Lisbon offers a rich tapestry of experiences for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in its vibrant culture. In this article, we will take you on a journey through some of Lisbon's must-visit neighborhoods and landmarks, showcasing the city's unique charm and cultural heritage.

1. Alfama: A Historic and Picturesque Neighborhood

Begin your exploration of Lisbon's vibrant culture in Alfama, the oldest neighborhood in the city. Lose yourself in its narrow alleys, adorned with colorful tiles and traditional Fado music wafting through the air. Don't miss the iconic São Jorge Castle, perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city.

2. Baixa-Chiado: The Heart of Lisbon

Head to Baixa-Chiado, the bustling downtown district of Lisbon, where the historic meets the contemporary. Stroll along Rua Augusta, a vibrant pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visit the historic Café A Brasileira, a favorite haunt of writers and intellectuals. Don't forget to explore the elegant squares of Praça do Comércio and Rossio, surrounded by impressive architecture.

3 .Belém: A Journey into Lisbon's Maritime Past

Venture to Belém, a neighborhood renowned for its historical significance and architectural wonders. Marvel at the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower, an emblematic fortress guarding the entrance to the city's harbor. Pay a visit to the grand Jerónimos Monastery, an architectural masterpiece. And of course, indulge in the famous pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at the iconic Pastéis de Belém bakery.

4. Bairro Alto: The Bohemian Hub

As the sun sets, make your way to Bairro Alto, Lisbon's bohemian quarter. This lively neighborhood comes alive with music, street art, and an electric atmosphere. Wander through its narrow streets filled with trendy bars, traditional taverns, and live music venues. Join the locals in a jovial evening of Fado or simply soak in the vibrant energy of the area.

5. LX Factory: An Artistic Haven

For a dose of creativity, head to LX Factory, a revitalized industrial complex turned artistic hub. Explore the eclectic mix of shops, art galleries, and trendy cafes housed in former factory buildings. This vibrant space showcases the work of local artists, designers, and entrepreneurs, making it the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Lisbon's thriving creative scene.

6. Parque das Nações: Modernity Meets Nature

Experience Lisbon's modern side in Parque das Nações, a waterfront district transformed for the Expo '98. This vibrant area boasts modern architecture, such as the iconic Vasco da Gama Tower and the Lisbon Oceanarium, one of the largest aquariums in Europe. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverfront promenade or take a cable car ride for panoramic views.

Conclusion:

Lisbon's vibrant culture is woven into the fabric of its neighborhoods and landmarks, each offering a unique glimpse into the city's past and present. From the historical charm of Alfama and Belém to the contemporary buzz of Bairro Alto and LX Factory, Lisbon has something to captivate every traveler. So, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this remarkable city, and let Lisbon's beauty and charm leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.

 

Lisbon - Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto (BA), began as an expansion sixteenth century (the first allotment of Vila Nova de Andrade - BA in 1513 century. XVI) from the city of Discovery, scheduled on the basis of modern urban fabric orthogonal, where they settled, the next hand, popular (housing linked to merchant shipping routes) and aristocrats. It was identified as a typical neighborhood of great animation, from the nineteenth century. With a genuine experience, have their memories connected to the literary tradition, attracted the press, and the bohemian life, revived new living spaces and provided a cultural experience, which still remains.

Place of great attraction for all who like to have fun, is a very lively, with local life. The offer is great, is the center of the most lively nightlife of Lisbon: typical restaurants, bars, fado houses, bookstores, libraries, theaters, some of the creative workshops, fashion shops and design.

In Viewpoints, facing the beautiful scenery of Lisbon, now the BA is part of a historic district and typical (with narrow streets and perpendicular windows adorned with flowers), the most cherished of Lisbon. The gilt and polychrome, the tiles, decorative painting, is an example of the exuberance of decoration, to join her creativity and innovation. These are some of the characteristics of Portuguese Baroque. With notable examples of Portuguese art, architecture and civil religion in a spirit of time that marked the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.

It is quite clear the difference of two meshes corresponding to different stages of urbanization (Vila Nova de Andrade / BA) as well as a profile more popular in the south and ambience, more aristocratic north. The Rose Street and Century Street, established the western limits and still articulated, some sections of rural tradition. The centers of urban life were located in the churchyard of St. Roque and the site of the Port of Santa Catarina to Chiado.

The North Zone (BA) connected early in the graphic arts sector, which comes from the press until the current design. Residents accounted for sayings strata (workers, laborers and employees), who lived in houses of small size. Due to a progressive replacement gradually became less room for trendy shops, restaurants, bars, traditional shops.


The South Zone (B.A): essentially offices. The social composition of residents was relatively differentiated, the population was more bourgeois and lived in larger houses (many with drawn Pombal).


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adapted: http://lisboa-antiga.tripod.com
Pictures: Google

When to visit Lisbon

As a tourist destination, Lisbon has a mild climate with an average annual temperature of around 17 º C, making it a nice city to visit anytime of year. Summer days can become very hot, but evenings are always pleasantly cool. Farther from the center of town, the sea breezes keep the air fresh and unique scenery a mixture of colors that do not want to miss!

Winter temperatures are considerably more pleasant than those that are felt in the United Kingdom, Germany and other countries of northern Europe. Although unlikely, it can snow and rain in London is certainly something on the horizon, especially this time of year.

Spring is the ideal season to visit the monuments and gardens in bloom, since the temperatures are always nice for a stroll. Summer is the season of beach par excellence and the best time of year to experience the wonderful beaches of Lisbon's coast.

Autumn, with its leaves falling, and their tones orange, brown and gold, is an ideal time for exploring the romantic narrow streets of old neighborhoods, like Alfama and Bairro Alto.

Golf and sport in Lisbon

Golf, sailing, windsurfing and cycling are just some of the many sports you can practice during your stay in Lisbon.

We would not be lying if we said that Lisbon has something for everyone, because it's the truth! Choose from some of the best golf courses, sandy beaches with a wide variety of water sports or one of many sports associations with well-equipped gyms and swimming pools.

Golf:
In Lisbon and the surrounding area, you will find 18 golf courses just minutes away from downtown. Spanning the beautiful scenery and for golf lovers who do not want to give up quality of life, these golf courses are equipped with all facilities required by the more experienced players.

List of some golf courses:

I Aroeira
The golf course is rated Aroeira hard green and is considered one of the best in Europe. Has hosted several events including the Ladies Open and the Portugal Open. The property has 345 acres of golf course and the length of Aroeira found in this beautiful area, 25 km away from downtown and half a kilometer away from the beach.

DIRECTIONS
Follow the A2 (IC3) toward Setúbal - cross the bridge - the first exit and turn right to Costa da Caparica. At the second traffic light turn left and follow the signs for "golf".

HOLES
18
PAR
72
LONG WHITES
6044 m
LENGTH Yellows
5740 m
REDS LENGTH 5186 m

HANDICAP
Men <28 ladies and <36 ENTERTAINMENT 7:45 a.m.-20h CLUB HOUSE Restaurant and snack bar Aroeira II The Aroeira II differs from I Aroeira for its fast greens, bunkers on the fairways, by its five lakes and sand traps along the green. It has five tees per hole, making the field suitable for all players and levels. Opened in 2000 and designed according to standards recommended by the European Tour. Its large lakes and pine forests make this course a very special place. DIRECTIONS Follow the A2 (IC3) toward Setúbal - cross the bridge - take the first exit right to Costa da Caparica. At the second traffic light turn left and follow the signs for "golf" HOLES 18 PAR 72 LONG WHITES 6367 m LENGTH Yellows 5903 m LENGTH REDS 4805 m HANDICAP Men <28 ladies and <36 ENTERTAINMENT 7:45 a.m.-20h CLUB HOUSE Restaurant and snack bar Belas Clube de Campo Overlooking the Sintra hills, this course winds along the hillsides, forming a vast green space with blue lakes and streams in the middle of a dense forest. Two holes in the field are particularly beautiful because of its location and the challenge for golfers who place. This is the second hole with a par 5 called "Augusta" and the final hole par 4. DIRECTIONS Follow the A9 - Fine exit - follow signs for the N50. At junction, turn right and cross the bridge. Follow the signs to the golf course. (15 km from Lisbon) HOLES 18 PAR 72 LONG WHITES 6270 m LENGTH Yellows 5591 m LENGTH REDS 4874 m HANDICAP Men <28 ladies and <36 ENTERTAINMENT 7:45 a.m.-20h CLUB HOUSE Restaurant and snack bar

Lisbon Sports Club
Founded in 1922, this field is quite difficult since the first move, thanks to the vegetation, waterways and bunkers on both sides of the course. Filled with eucalyptus trees, wild flowers, pine and cypress trees, this golf course has a unique natural beauty. The colonial-style clubhouse is cozy and has a restaurant and snack bar overlooking the green.

DIRECTIONS
Follow the A9 - Fine exit - follow signs for EN 117 - turn left - follow signs to the golf course. (15 km from Lisbon)

HOLES
18

PAR
69

LONG WHITES 5284 m

LENGTH Yellows
5017 m
LENGTH REDS
4637 m

HANDICAP
Men <28 ladies and <36
ENTERTAINMENT
7:45 a.m.-20h

CLUB HOUSE
Restaurant and snack bar



Thursday Beloura
Quinta da Beloura is one of the most difficult golf courses around the country. It is also the latest in the beautiful Estoril Coast. It's a nice green, predominantly in plain, with great views of the Sintra hills. Is full of lakes, where golfers can practice their skills.

DIRECTIONS
Follow EN9 towards Estoril and Sintra - Alcabideche skirt - so find the golf course. (About 25 km from Lisbon)

HOLES
18

PAR
73

LONG WHITES 5774 m

Yellows LENGTH 5573 m

LENGTH REDS
5173 m

HANDICAP
Men <28 ladies and <36

ENTERTAINMENT
07h45 - 20h
CLUB HOUSE
Restaurant and snack bar


Quinta da Marinha
Deployed on private property with over 100 hectares, the golf course at Quinta da Marinha offers fantastic views of the sea, especially the hole number 13, which descends towards the sea. The skills of the golfers are tested with a few bunkers and lakes throughout the range. The views of the Sintra mountains are magnificent, proving that this field is an interesting challenge for any golfer, one of the most beautiful scenery of Portugal.

DIRECTIONS
Follow the A5 towards Cascais - follow up Birre and Tower - follow the signs to Quinta da Marinha. (About 30 km from Lisbon)
HOLES
18

PAR
71

LONG WHITES
5845 m
LENGTH Yellows
5479 m
LENGTH REDS
4717 m

HANDICAP
Men <28 ladies and <36

ENTERTAINMENT
7:45 a.m.-20h
CLUB HOUSE
Restaurant and snack bar



Quinta do Peru
It is the latest golf Azeitão, a beautiful area near Lisbon, on the south bank of the river Tejo. Azeitão is known for its wine, cheese and gorgeous palaces, as well as the magnificent estate of Quinta do Peru in 1994, opened its golf course. After playing, have a drink in the club house with stunning views over the green and the protected area Arrábida.

DIRECTIONS
Follow the A2 towards the south (IC1) to the Algarve - exit at "Barreiro / Moita" and continue until Coina - at the second roundabout to Palmela / Azeitão - turn right at the building "Teljorge Furniture Ltd." - follow to traffic lights at Quinta do Conde, Setúbal, and proceed to the EN10 - when you see the tire shop "Silver Tire, turn right.

HOLES
18

PAR
72
LONG WHITES
6036 m
LENGTH Yellows
5645 m

LENGTH REDS
4703 m

HANDICAP
Men <28 ladies and <36
ENTERTAINMENT
7:45 a.m.-20h

CLUB HOUSE 7:45 a.m.-20h



Palmela Village Golf
The beautiful natural landscape has remained virtually intact thanks to the fantastic work of Jorge Santana da Silva on the projection of this incredible golf course. This 18-hole course was founded in 2009. The last three holes are located near the Club House where you will find a bar and a terrace that serves delicious meals and a restaurant overlooking the green. You can also buy sports equipment in the pro shop.

WHERE
Jávia Avenue, Lot 29-01 2950-580 Quinta do Anjo - Palmela. (50 km from Lisbon)

DIRECTIONS
Follow the A2 towards Setúbal - cross the bridge - exit before tolls at the exit "Montijo / Moita / Barreiro / Auto-Europe - after the toll, take exit 1. Coina exit to / Penalva / Industrial Zone - Follow up ex "Volkswagen / Auto-Europe-South" at the roundabout - at the next roundabout take the exit "Other Directions" - then follow signs that say "resort".

HOLES
18

PAR
61

LONG WHITES 3596 m

LENGTH Yellows
3236 m

LENGTH REDS
2660 m

HANDICAP
It is not necessary

ENTERTAINMENT
8:00 a.m.-20h

CLUB HOUSE
8:00 a.m.-20h


Water sports:

Surfing, body boarding, sailing, windsurfing and other water sports can be found easily on beaches as the winch (which brings together some of the best conditions for surfing and windsurfing), Cascais and Costa da Caparica. The latter covers a coastal area with 15 km of beaches.
Be sure to visit other locations, like Sesimbra and Setubal. In addition to the excellent conditions for water sports, both offer spectacular scenery, worth a visit.

Horse riding:

One of the best ways to explore the rural areas of Lisbon is the horse. The stunning scenery of the Estoril coast, particularly the Natural Park of Sintra-Cascais, presents riders with a memorable day in the countryside. One of the best places to rent a horse and galloped from a few hours Riding School is the Quinta da Marinha in Cascais.

Don't miss CASCAIS

Being in Lisbon, you should not miss the chance to know Cascais. To get there you may choose between going on the train or hire a car.
If you chose the train will enter on the first station, Cais do Sodre and the journey will always be near the water (first is the Tejo river that makes you company and then the Atlantic Ocean).
If the option is the automobile, the scenario will be identical, because the road that leads you to Cascais is parallel to the train and the scenery is breathtaking most of the journey.

Before arriving in Cascais, Estoril you can met the oldest casino in Portugal, which remains faithful to its tradition and to his vocation of incessant invocation vanguard and, behold, the new Casino Estoril, a beautiful and ultra-modern multi-purpose activity center "entertainment and recreation with exceptional quality that is its unique brand of good taste and excellent service.

Log in Casino Estoril means to enter the largest and most diversified leisure and entertainment complex in Portugal.

It also means entering the largest casino in Europe. Located in Estoril, 18 km from Lisbon International Airport and 20 from the Estoril Casino is considered the "Drawing Room" of the Portuguese Tourism.

Traditionally a small fishing harbor, Cascais has changed in the last 100 years to become one of the favorite tourist destinations of Portuguese. It exudes a cosmopolitan atmosphere without losing its natural charm.

The main attraction is the bay of Cascais. It's worth strolling the sidewalks surrounding the bay and to realize the contrast between the vivid colors of small fishing boats and yachts and sobriety of sailboats moored in the marina yacht club.

After admiring the bay can give a go to the fortress, the Sea Museum and the fascinating Museum Conde Castro Guimarães, also a small private beach. In the latter, you can hear some of the best classical concerts that happen with some regularity in Cascais.

If you like walking in parks, there is one near the museum where you can take a minute or two to relax under the shade trees give it.
On his way back to the bay you from which to explore the typical streets of town and see the traditional white houses, magnificent old facades and sidewalks covered with tiles.

Losing oneself in the intricacies of Cascais is a very enjoyable experience, allowing you to be in contact with its picturesque corners and small, but cozy restaurants, cafes and shops where you can rest until you feel like going on the road again . In other parts of town you will find ancient palaces and luxurious villas whose architecture is simply magnificent and worthy to be examined more closely. The Fort St. Jorge, reopened in December 2000, was once one of the most important defensive structures on the coast of Lisbon and is now a military museum. The main facade was reconstructed based on documents from 1796 and some divisions of the fort to portray scenes of everyday life that would be the time.

But, as we say, to learn more about any area there is nothing better than being carried away by his imagination, giving himself the freedom to get lost until you feel like finding your way again.

Visit Lisbon - Lisboa

I left the RATO metro station and looked south. I was undecided about the best way forward. Had three excellent alternatives. ESTRELA on my right, in front of São. Bento and at the left PRINCIPE REAL and Bairro Alto.

I decided to know them all, starting on my right. I going towards to ESTRELA GARDEN, which was built for over 160 years. It is a 10 minute walk. By the way I pass by a school, where teenagers have a coffee on the terrace, in their first game of seduction. I found the entrance to ESTRELA GARDEN. Upon entering, seems to have entered a new world. The noise of the city seems to disappear. And there, i find an elusive peace. A quiet, peace, unmistakable odor. Across the garden, the path of BASILICA as I watch elderly and couples dating and to feed the pigeons, while seated in the pews. Upon reaching the end of the Garden, beginning to see the grandeur of the Estrela Basilica. I Steal 20 minutes of my time to come and meditate a little.

From here, I'll go down to São Bento Street, using the electric car for those down and out with 2 km to Parliament (where the members meet and work).I admire the building and rest a litle on the shadows of the trees, but not stay long because I want to lunch at a place that gives me a lot of positive energy.  

The site is called PRAÇA DAS FLORES. A square very quiet, with trees and life itself, full of local life and where there is an extraordinary explained. A place to enjoy.

After a light lunch accompanied by a cold beer, put me on my way. Climb up to the Príncipe Real Square. Upstairs, turn right into the Bairro Alto. Suffer me a viewpoint that I am sure I will leave you breathless. There are about 30 minutes, traveling and getting lost in the streets of Bairro Alto.

At the end of Rei Pedro V Street, to my left I find what I seek. From there I see a major symbol of Lisbon - Castelo de Sao Jorge. I'm in MIRADOURO SAN PEDRO DE ALCANTARA and from there I see all those houses that fills the hill. An excellent place to regain strength and take some pictures. 

To the end the day, I'll take the opportunity to dine in many restaurants that abound in the area and to suit many tastes. And also I feel like one of those wines from the Alentejo.

After dinner, if you wish, you can visit the modern Lisbon Casino, where you can enjoy several free shows.
Until you visit Lisbon you can try and earn money to pay for travel in Ok Online Casino
Enjoy the city of Lisbon.

 

BICA Elevator - Lisbon - Lisboa

The Mechanical Lift Company was founded in Lisbon June 6, 1882 and two years later, now with a new name - New Mechanical Lift Company of Lisbon, the city installed a set of elevators that run up a slope. On June 28, 1892 the service began operating the Elevador da Bica, taking as point of departure Street São Paulo, through Rua de Duarte Belo, up to Largo do Calhariz. The traction system was rack and cable, water balance: Each car was equipped with a water tank which emptied when it reached the Rua de S. And filled in when it finished his course in Largo Calhariz.

On 12 October 1916, near the Largo do Calhariz when to finalize the agenda, the malfunction of brakes precipitated the lift after an uncontrolled descent, to the Station of Rua São Paulo, where it smashed. As a result of the accident remained inactive until June 27, 1927, when, already owned by Carris (Concessionaire of surface public transport in London), operating again with a new system that was in fact the engines of passing cars being driven by a motor installed in the underground station Calhariz Largo. Since February 2002 are classified as National Monument.In 1912 it was agreed with the Lisbon Electric Tramways Limited and Carris for the joint operation of the Power Plant of Santos for the electrification of the service. The system was extended to lift the Lavra, Bica and Glória. The frequent stopping of the service, resulting from frequent shortages of water supply, made in 1886, the Company decided to replace the drive shaft, then going to use steam engines, supplied by the firm Maschinnenfabrick of Esslingen, Germany.

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