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Lisbon Holidays
Lisbon is a capital full of contrasts. History combines with modernity, making Lisbon holidays always amazing and pleasant. The historic capital city of Portugal lies on the banks of the River Tagus and with its great architecture, interesting museums, lively culture and the good restaurants, Lisbon has much to offer and it is a beautiful holiday city.
Lisbon holidays attractions include: Castelo de Sao Jorge, a castle built in the 15th century offering spectacular views of Lisbon and the ocean; Sé (Cathedral); Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation Museum; Alfama, Lisbon's medieval quarter, the oldest part of the city; and Bairro Alto district, a historic enclave dating from 1513.
Most of the times Lisbon holidays imply visiting the famous Tower of Belem and Mosteiro dos Jeronimos (a monastery built in the magnificent Manueline style), UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Parque das Nações, Lisbon's exhibition park, is now worthy of a full day's sightseeing, featuring several attractions, like Lisbon Oceanarium with its 15,000 living examples of marine life. Lisbon also has a famous old tram system, offering a great way to see the city.
A good time for a Lisbon holiday is the beginning of June and especially the days around the 12th of June, when Saint Anthony, the patron of Lisbon, is celebrated. Packed with color for the processions and festivities, Lisbon is the guests for many foreign people and locals that gather around to enjoy the special moments. The mayor of Lisbon offers free weddings in Saint Anthony's Church that are followed by all-night street fairs in Alfama district. The city is cheered by the decorations with paper lanterns, colored lights, and streamers, the parade down Avenida da Liberdade and endless parties.
Not far from Lisbon there are sandy holiday beaches like Estoril and Cascais, as well as the forested areas of Sintra (once home of Portuguese nobility). In fact the entire Lisbon Coast is a beautiful and welcoming riviera with many palaces and mansions, perfect for Lisbon holidays. Estoril is a popular holiday resort with elegant hotels along the smart Tamariz Beach. Cascais, a small fishing village years ago, is currently a lively resort with lovely beaches, restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
Lisbon holidays are very attractive because Lisbon has a unique historic center and nearby beaches, good resorts for all kinds of budgets and a spirit of joy floating in the air. |
