Palácio Ramalhete Lissabon, Lissabon, Portugal

Lisbon

You should plan at least a couple of days to explore the rich variety of lisbons quarters (bairros) and attractions. Alfama is the oldest part of Lisbon, going from the walls of the caste São Jorge down to the Tejo. High above the city centre to the west of the Baixa is the so called Bairro Alto. This is the natural place to wind up at night. Well worth a morning or aftenoon stroll to explore.

The Baixa is Europe's first example of Neoclasssical design and urban planning. The lower town is very much the heart of the city and main shopping area. Many of Lisbon's touristic attractions are located in Belém, amongst them are the Jerónimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries, the Torre de Belém, the Belém Cultural Centre and Rua Vieira Portuense. The Belém Cultural Centre (CCB) is known as one of the great cultural centres in Europe, and a building of outstanding architecture: exhibitions, performing arts, restaurants, gardens and shops.

The Parque das Nações, the former EXPO areal, is still worth a visit. Also don't miss the famous Flea Market, Feira da Ladra, which fills the Campo de Santa Clara, at the eastern edge of Alfama on Tuesdays and Saturdays (7am-6pm).

Outside Lisbon there is a lot more to see:
Sintra, a world heritage site, has all the charm of a fairy tale town and was once described by Lord Byron as "the glorious Eden". Sintra has beautiful palaces old residences to visit, particularly the Palácio da Pena, Castelo dos Mouros, Convento dos Capuchos, Palácio da Vila and luxuriant gardens of Monserrate.

Estoril and Cascais can be reached within 20 min. from Lisbon. Estoril was once known as the "Portuguese Rivieira" with grandiose villas and luxury hotels whereas Cascais was an old fishing village with pretty houses by the sea, is now a major resort. Both villages are connected by a beautiful promanade along the coast.

Serra da Arrábida, between Setúbal and Sesimbra is a peaceful nature reserve with its own microclimate that has created unique tree species. There are numerous animals, as well as excellent beaches to enjoy. On the way you can stop at Azeitão, a town renowned for its wines and cheese.

Costa da Caparica
This is athoroughly lively Portuguese resort, with restaurants and summer bars. It is a perfect place to swim or laze around on the sand.

Praia do Guincho
beautiful beach, superb place for surfing and windsurfing.