Portugal’s Finest Restaurants and Beaches

About Lisbon

A naturally beautiful city which is surrounded by and set on seven steep hills (though some say eight!), Lisbon overlooks the Tagus River, the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. Characterized by its laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is known for vibrant culture, history, and architecture as well as for its picture-perfect panoramas.

Lisbon’s neighborhoods are comprised of steep, narrow streets which accommodate its hilly landscape, and the city’s old-world trams and cable elevators connect them. Today, Lisbon is a city of approximately 546,000 residents and is part of a metropolis which comprises close to 3 million inhabitants. Because of Lisbon’s strategic location, it has, historically, been an important seaport for trade between northern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally known as “Olisspo” after Ulysses, one of the heroes of Greek mythology, its name was changed to “El Lisbon” by the Muslims in the 8th century. In 1147, Lisbon was conquered by the Christians and, in 1255, was declared the Portuguese capital. Lisbon’s glory came in the 15th and 16th centuries when it was the center for discovery expeditions to the New World. The Manuelin style of architecture, named after King Manuel I who financed spice trade between India and Africa, developed during this period. A large earthquake in the mid-18th century destroyed most of the buildings from that time, though there are two remaining Manueline style structures - the iconic, 16th century Belem Tower (Torre de Belem), originally built on the edge of the river to protect the city, and the Jeronimos Monastery. The monastery, which was badly damaged from the earthquake but survived, is covered with white marble and stone carvings which glorify Portugal’s pioneering maritime discoveries. Inside, there are tombs and sculptures of kings and two of Portugal’s greatest heroes, Vasco de Gama, the explorer, and Luis de Camoish, Portugal’s national poet. Both structures are now UNESCO World Heritage sites. The medieval Castelo De Sao Jorge fortress stands at the top of Alfama hill, the largest of the city’s seven hills. The castle is built on 5th century Visigoth foundations as well as 9th century Moorish foundations. In the 12th century, after capturing the city from the Moors, Alfonso Enrique added to the structure. From the castle, there is a spectacular view of the city, the river, and the enormous suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril. Another famous look-out point which offers spectacular views is Edward VII Park, named after Britain’s monarch who visited the city in 1903. It is the largest park in Lisbon and extends uphill from Marques de Pombal Square to an open pavilion at the top. Alfama is the heart and soul of Lisbon - a neighborhood dating back to medieval times with a maze of cobbled alleys, hidden courtyards, charming squares, and houses with colorful tiles and iron-railed balconies. It is located at the foot of the castle and is a fun place for a stroll as well as to enjoy the city’s many fado restaurants which serve local specialties and offer fado-style music. The Terreiro do Paco (also known as Praca do Comercio), is located on the riverfront, and is known as one of the most important squares in Lisbon. It served as the royal palace for two centuries prior to being destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Today, it is a pedestrian square from which you can reach the Tagus River. The Chiado and Bairro Alto districts are two archetypal Lisbon neighborhoods. Chiado is trendy with its celebrated cafes, bookshops, boutiques, and theaters, including Lisbon’s opera house. Bairro Alto is the center of the city’s nightlife with its many pubs, clubs, and bars. The LUX club is one of Lisbon’s most famed nightclubs and, with its total capacity of over 3000, has been a favorite spot of the rich and famous. Actor John Malkovich, who shot a movie in Portugal and fell in love with the club, is now a partial owner. The famous restaurant, Bica do Sapato (“the tip of the shoe”), is located adjacent to the club. Luis de Camoish Square, named after the national poet, connects the two districts. Avenida Da Liberdade, the "Portuguese Champs-Elysées,” is a wide boulevard with tall trees and dozens of statues lining it as well as an Egyptian pillar dedicated to Portugal’s independence. The business center of Lisbon, the street is also lined with hotels, banks, cinemas, and international brand stores. Further down the boulevard is Rossio Square with its statue of Dom Pedro IV (who was both the King of Portugal and the Emperor of Brazil) and 2 French- style fountains. Lisbon is home to world-class museums. The Museu Caloute Gulbenkain is located in a lush park and is one of the city’s gems. Much of the museum’s collection came from a wealthy Armenian oil magnate, Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, who endowed his vast, outstanding private art collection to Portugal before he died in 1955. The National Museum of Ancient Art is Portugal’s national gallery which houses a large collection of 15th and 16th century paintings, as well as Oriental, European, and African art. The National Tile Museum, Museu Nacional do Azulejo, houses a unique collection of decorative tiles, known as azulejos, and it traces tile-making from its Moorish and Spanish influences through the rise of Portugal’s unique style. The MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology - which is housed in a converted power station on the waterfront, is an outstanding new cultural center in Lisbon. The 12th century Lisbon Cathedral, located near the Alfama district, is Lisbon’s oldest and most famous church. Originally a Romanesque cathedral, the structure was destroyed in the earthquake and today it blends architectural styles. Its two bell towers are a beautiful part of the city’s skyline. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the Monument of the Discoveries, is located on the banks of the Tagus River estuary– the place from which ships departed for maritime discovery voyages. Designed by 2 Portuguese architects, it is a massive structure in the shape of the prow of a ship which celebrates the Portuguese explorers who established the country’s seafaring prominence. In the interior of the 170-foot high tower, there is an exhibition about the history of Lisbon, and the monument’s viewing platform offers spectacular views. The 1988 World’s Fair Expo was held in Lisbon, and the entire eastern part along the river was renovated and became a showcase for the city’s new and modern architecture. There is a new complex called Park of the Nations (Parquet das Nacoes) which includes the Oriente train station and the Vasco de Gama shopping mall. There are two large towers designed as a giant sail, and the Oceanarium is a huge, popular aquarium with over 8000 sea animals. A train transports visitors between attractions. The village of Sintra is a 30 minute train ride from Lisbon and is a not-to-be-missed day trip. Sintra was a royal resort, and it is home to extraordinary palaces, a Moorish castle, a semi tropical garden, and scenic views. With its combination of captivating tradition and modern touches, Lisbon is a popular destination – and city that many tourists long to return to!

About Evora

Evora, the capital of the Alentejo region, is a beautiful town- a museum-city – with roots dating back to Roman times. Surrounded by 14th century walls and home to narrow, winding alleys, diverse and outstanding architecture, Roman antiquities, and a picturesque central square, it is one of the best preserved and oldest towns in Portugal and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Evora is also a lively university city, full of bars and excellent restaurants. 

The town’s golden age was between the 14th and 16th centuries when many educated people and artists settled there. It became the center of arts and learning as well as the seat of the archbishop, and the Jesuit University was founded there. When Spain took control of Portugal, the royal court left Evora, and the town lost much of its importance and cultural influence but much of its architecture still stands today. The heart of the city is Praca do Giraldo, named after the Christian knight “Fearless,” who, based on legend, stormed one of the watchtowers alone and conquered Evora from the Moors in the mid 12th century. In the center of the square is a famous Baroque fountain, declared a national monument, built in 1571 of white marble combined with bronze. It is decorated with 8 spouts shaped as lions with the number of spouts corresponding to the number of main streets connecting to the square, and there is a crown at the top. The square is surrounded by impressive historic buildings, cafes, and beautiful shops. Praca do Giraldo, which is beautifully illuminated after dark, is the center of Evora's nightlife. The Evora Cathedral, the Se, is a fortress-looking church dating back to the early 13th century which combines Romanesque and Gothic architectural features. It is one of the largest churches in Portugal and is adorned with two asymmetrical towers that were added later. The 12 statues of the Apostles, dating back to the 14th century, stand guard at the entrance, and there is a huge, magnificent chandelier inside. The Museum of Religious Art is housed in the connecting building, a Baroque style structure which had been home to the church’s choir boys. The museum displays rare and valuable artifacts, and there are spectacular views of the city from the top of the museum’s winding staircase. The 15th century Igreja do Sao Francisco is a huge Manueline- Gothic style structure. Connected to the church is the 16th century chapel, Capela Dos Ossos (Bone Chapel), whose interior designs are somewhat gruesome but fascinating – its walls are lined with 5000 skulls, bones, and skeletons of monks taken from a local cemetery. One of the highlights of the city – and its icon - is the relatively well-preserved Roman Temple, also known as the Temple to Diana. Thought to have been built in the 2nd or 3rd century, it is a granite base with 14 surviving columns and Corinthian capitals. The Evora Museum is housed in the former palace of the Archbishop of Evora which dates back to the 16th century. The interior is light and modern, and it displays the most diverse art collection in Portugal. The 14th century Palacio dos Duques de Cadaval, the Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval, is located at the foot of the old city wall. While it is still a private residence, there are several rooms which are open to the public and showcase valuable and fascinating family heirlooms. The Church of St. John the Evangelist, Igreja Sao Joao Evangelista, is decorated with beautiful Azulejo tiles which depict the life of the saint. Evora is an enchanting town, brimming with history, art, culture, and outstanding cuisine!

About Albufeira

Albufeira, a coastal city in the southern Algarve region, is one of the area's largest and liveliest cities. Until the 1960's, the town was a sleepy fishing village, but, due to its stunning sandy beaches, natural beauty, quaint towns, abundant restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, it has become a popular tourist destination. In contrast to the calm and peaceful rural atmosphere of villages in the Algarve's interior, this coastal city provides a different, energetic, and bustling experience.

By day, Albufeira offers well-maintained beaches, a variety of water sports, and a historic waterfront promenade with many restaurants and shops. At night, the promenade pulsates with music, live performances by artists and bands, and clubs that bustle until the wee hours of the morning. In its early days as a fishing port, the Romans called it "Baltum," and introduced agriculture and trade, building aqueducts, bridges, and roads. The Muslims, who ruled for about 500 years, turned Albufeira into a major trade center and called it, Al-Buhera, meaning "a castle on the sea." In the 13th century, with the end of Muslim rule, it returned to being a sleepy fishing village, until the 20th century. The town's long history is reflected through the traditional architecture in the Old Town. Its white-washed houses, small stone-paved balconies, and winding alleys create a romantic atmosphere. Praia Dos Pescadores beach, in front of the Old City, offers a lovely beach which is suitable for families. The New Town, also known as "The Strip," is the center of entertainment in Albufeira and probably in the entire Algarve. There is one long street lined with themed bars and nightclubs – the perfect spot for those looking to party all night. Praia Da Oura beach, located in front of the lively party area, attracts a mostly young crowd. Some of Albufeira's 12 miles of golden beaches are equipped with beach facilities such as sunbeds and umbrellas, but there are also smaller and less manicured beaches that look like they came out of a postcard. The Praia De Sao Rafael beach is surrounded by large rocks and, together with golden sand and turquoise water, form a stunning area. Zoomarine Amusement Park is an oceanographic park with dolphins, sharks, sea lions, and seals, and even tropical birds and birds of prey. The park offers shows and performances as well as an aquarium and a sandy beach with slides and a wave pool.

About Tomar

Tomar, with its distinct medieval character, is one of the most beautiful and charming towns in Portugal. Tomar is known as the Knights Templar City because it had served as the seat of the Order of the Knights Templar from 1118 to 1308. In fact, it is the world’s most important center of Templar history, and its well-preserved castle and church reflect the town’s rich history.

Tomar boasts the famous 12th century monastery, the “Convent of Christ” (Convento de Cristo in Portuguese) - a former Templar stronghold which was turned into the Knights of the Order of Christ and played an important role in the seafaring activities during the Age of Discovery. The Castelo do Tomar (Castle of Tomar), dating back to the times of the Reconquista, is part of the convent complex and is also considered an important historic and architectural landmark. The castle was part of the fortifications built against attacks by the Moors. The castle and convent, with their elaborate exterior and interior frescos and cloisters, reflect Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architectural features and are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The 15th century Tomar Synagogue has been well-preserved and is one of the two synagogues in Portugal that date back to the pre-expulsion era. The synagogue served as a place of worship, a school, and a court for the prosperous Portuguese Jewish community until it was closed in 1496 following the edict of expulsion by King Manuel I. Following the expulsion of the Jews, the synagogue was turned into a prison, and, in later centuries, served various functions, including a wine cellar, warehouse, and a hayloft. Located in the Tomar’s historic city center, the synagogue now houses a Jewish museum. The 16th century enormous aqueduct, Acqueduto dos Pegoes, is a famous landmark with its many beautiful arches and other outstanding architectural features. Originally built to supply water to the Convent of Christ, it has become a city icon and a popular destination for breathtaking views and photo opps. The Mata Nacional dos Sete Montes is one of the oldest parks in the area and was the place of initiation into the knightly order. The park is full of large oak and cedar trees as well as beautiful landscaping. Tomar’s charming old town has a well-known town square, lovely boutiques and cafes, Saint John’s bell tower, and the famous Renaissance Ponta Velha Bridge over the Nabao River. In modern Tomar, the downtown area is pedestrian-only and is a pleasant place to stroll with its fresh produce markets, charming cafes, and lovely shops.

About Viseu

It is home to outstanding religious architecture and sacred art and is characterized by charming cobbled streets, winding alleys, public gardens, and a famous central square, Praca da Republica, which is adorned with flowers and fountains. 

Legend has it that, before the Romans captured Viriathus, the Lusitanian warrior and national hero who fought against the Roman conquest in 139 BC, he hid in a cave in Viseu. Several Visigoth nobles established the city as their court during the Middle Ages, but it is best known as the birthplace of one of the greatest painters of the Portuguese Renaissance, Vasco Fernandez. In the 15th century, Alfonso V completed the construction of the city walls, and, as the city prospered from agriculture and trade, it expanded beyond the walls. Construction of the majestic Cathedral of Viseu was started in the 12th century, and it features a mixture of classic Renaissance, Manueline, and Mannerist architectural influences. It has two beautiful bell towers and a stunning interior with a vaulted ceiling and golden altar. It stands in all its glory on a rock towering high above the city. From the square in front of the cathedral there is a spectacular view of the surrounding plains. In front of the cathedral is the 18th century Igreja Da Misericordia, with a rococo facade, which houses the Misericordia Museum with an impressive collection of sacred art and paintings from the 17th-19th centuries. The Grao Vasco Museum is named after Vasco Fernandez, and it contains a unique collection of outstanding Renaissance art, including altarpieces from the Viseu Cathedral, which are, at least in part, attributed to the famous painter. Viseu is home to several universities and is an economic, cultural, and agricultural center of the region. It is famous for its wine, the "Burgundy of Portugal," which is produced from the vineyards in the Regiao do Dao region that have been growing this special variety of red velvet grapes for over 2000 years.

About Porto

Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, is an ancient city, yet one that is young and vibrant in spirit. A coastal city located on the northern bank of the mouth of the Douro River, it is home to historical sites - baroque churches, bell towers rising over the city, magnificent Art Nouveau style buildings, and narrow alleys studded with bookstores and antiques- as well as a vibrant night life, great shopping, cafes, excellent restaurants, and the Port lodges which feature the outstanding local Port wines. Porto is also known for its laid-back vibe and its beauty - charming homes along the banks of the river, romantic spots, and picturesque bridges which connect its two sides.

Portugal derives its name from the city of Porto. Originally a Celtic hamlet called Cale, the Romans added the port and established a settlement on both sides of the river, naming it “Portus Cale” which eventually became Portucale and gave the name not only to the city, but to the nation of Portugal. The Moors ruled briefly during the city’s early times, but Porto came under Christian domination in 1092. Porto became an important port city in the 14th century, and, during the early 19th century, it came under British rule during the Peninsular War. Grapes have been grown in Portugal since ancient times, and the Romans, who inhabited the area for over 500 years, starting from the 2nd century BC, planted vineyards and made wine on the Douro River. During the era of Portugal’s prosperity, after the establishment of its kingdom in 1143, wine became an important export. Port wines started to be produced and exported later- in the 2nd half of the 17th century. Ribreira (riverside) Square is Porto's oldest district, and it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Located on the river bank, the old town is a maze of narrow, winding alleys dotted with cafes, workshops, and small shops with elegant, Art Nouveau style facades. There are beautiful squares which are popular meeting places for the "tripeiros" – the name given to the residents of Porto. The facades of the old merchants' houses facing the river are painted in many colors, and the many restaurants and cafes along the river are popular with both locals and tourists. You can cross the river on a rabelo boat along the promenade – one of the colorful boats that had been used to transport port wine down the river and now serve as pleasure boats. Other Porto highlights include the 14th century São Francisco Church, with its lavish baroque interior and ornate gilded carvings, and the palatial 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa, formerly a stock exchange, which was built to impress potential European investors. The Clerigos Tower is an ornate bell tower which rises above the city and has become a city icon. It offers panoramic views of the city, which are well-worth the 225 step climb up! The Sao Bento train station, with its entrance hall composed of 2000 decorative ceramic tiles, recounts highlights from Portugal’s history, the royal dynasty, wars, and the development of transportation. The tiles, painted blue and white, are spectacular. Located on the ruins of a 16th century Benedictine monastery, this is one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. Avenida Los Aliados, a spacious boulevard and the beating heart of the city, is lined with busy cafes and impressive public buildings. With the growth of Porto as a financial center in the late 19th century, this area was transformed, and its buildings reflect the influence of the Parisian architects who arrived in the city at the time. The City Hall, in particular, is one of the most magnificent buildings on the boulevard. The 12th century Se Do Porto Cathedral is built on a hill in the historic center of the city. This Romanesque monument is one of the city’s oldest. The Church of San Francisco Igreja De Sao Francisco, known as the 18th century baroque sailors' church, is one of the most spectacular in Portugal. Though its origins are Romanesque, it was transformed with Gothic architecture and elements of the Baroque style. Porto’s main shopping street, Rua Santa Catarina, is lined with boutiques, international brands, and a lively, young atmosphere. You’ll find trendy cafes, including the legendary Majestic, which opened in 1921, and boasts impressive Art Nouveau design, mirrors, and sculptures – and a star-studded patron list. Another city highlight is the gorgeous Lello Bookstore, one of the most outstanding bookstores in Europe. More than a century old, the bookstore boasts Art Nouveau facade and a neo-Gothic interior design with carved wooden walls, stained glass windows, and a magnificent red staircase. Thinking of Hogwarts? Lello is said to have served as the inspiration for it. (JK Rowling had once lived in Porto!) Near the center of the city is a park called Crystal Palace. Though the original Crystal Palace, built in 1865, no longer remains, the park is home to magnificent gardens, charming architecture, fountains, a wonderful view of the river, and a modern public library. Porto’s exceptional Museum of Modern Art, known as the Serralves Museum, is the foremost museum of its kind in Portugal. It is located on the grounds of the Serralves Estate, which also includes a park and a villa. Porto is a vibrant cultural city. It embodies a combination of the old and new, impressive history and avant-garde urban renewal – in short, a popular destination with its lively nightlife, outstanding wine culture, and breathtaking beauty!

About Alcobaca

Alcobaca is situated in the center of an agricultural area, in the valleys of the Alcoa and Baca Rivers. It is surrounded by lush orchards and best known for its famous monastery, the Mosteiro de Santa Maria de Alcobaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The monastery, dating back to the 12th century, is a magnificent, well-preserved example of Cistercian architecture – one of the most impressive in Europe. Its medieval church is built in primitive Gothic-style and remains intact. Portugal’s first king, Alfonso Henriques, founded the monastery in 1153 to celebrate the conquest, and it took close to 100 years to build. The monastery became one of the richest and most powerful in Portugal and was home to close to 1000 monks who took turns holding Mass around the clock. With the monks’ gluttony, particularly, in the 18th century, the religious order was dissolved. In the 17th and 18th centuries, much of the church’s original façade was modified, but its interior is a well-preserved mix of Gothic and Cistercian styles. The church is home to two richly decorated tombs from the 14th century, commemorating the tragic love story of King Pedro I and his lover, Dona Ines de Castro, which served as an inspiration for many artists, writers, and poets. In addition, the monastery contains the kings’ room, Sala Dos Reis, decorated with 18th century blue and white tiles that tell the history of the monastery, as well as statues of the kings of Portugal. The medieval Gothic style cloister is beautiful, and you can also see the huge 18th century kitchen with a central, tiled chimney and the monks' dining rooms. The local Cistercian monasteries and convents left their imprint on Alcobaca’s cuisine, especially their sweets. The town is also known for its high quality crystal, earthenware, and porcelain.

About Lisbon

A naturally beautiful city which is surrounded by and set on seven steep hills (though some say eight!), Lisbon overlooks the Tagus River, the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula. Characterized by its laid-back atmosphere, Lisbon is known for vibrant culture, history, and architecture as well as for its picture-perfect panoramas.

Lisbon’s neighborhoods are comprised of steep, narrow streets which accommodate its hilly landscape, and the city’s old-world trams and cable elevators connect them. Today, Lisbon is a city of approximately 546,000 residents and is part of a metropolis which comprises close to 3 million inhabitants. Because of Lisbon’s strategic location, it has, historically, been an important seaport for trade between northern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea. Originally known as “Olisspo” after Ulysses, one of the heroes of Greek mythology, its name was changed to “El Lisbon” by the Muslims in the 8th century. In 1147, Lisbon was conquered by the Christians and, in 1255, was declared the Portuguese capital. Lisbon’s glory came in the 15th and 16th centuries when it was the center for discovery expeditions to the New World. The Manuelin style of architecture, named after King Manuel I who financed spice trade between India and Africa, developed during this period. A large earthquake in the mid-18th century destroyed most of the buildings from that time, though there are two remaining Manueline style structures - the iconic, 16th century Belem Tower (Torre de Belem), originally built on the edge of the river to protect the city, and the Jeronimos Monastery. The monastery, which was badly damaged from the earthquake but survived, is covered with white marble and stone carvings which glorify Portugal’s pioneering maritime discoveries. Inside, there are tombs and sculptures of kings and two of Portugal’s greatest heroes, Vasco de Gama, the explorer, and Luis de Camoish, Portugal’s national poet. Both structures are now UNESCO World Heritage sites. The medieval Castelo De Sao Jorge fortress stands at the top of Alfama hill, the largest of the city’s seven hills. The castle is built on 5th century Visigoth foundations as well as 9th century Moorish foundations. In the 12th century, after capturing the city from the Moors, Alfonso Enrique added to the structure. From the castle, there is a spectacular view of the city, the river, and the enormous suspension bridge, the Ponte 25 de Abril. Another famous look-out point which offers spectacular views is Edward VII Park, named after Britain’s monarch who visited the city in 1903. It is the largest park in Lisbon and extends uphill from Marques de Pombal Square to an open pavilion at the top. Alfama is the heart and soul of Lisbon - a neighborhood dating back to medieval times with a maze of cobbled alleys, hidden courtyards, charming squares, and houses with colorful tiles and iron-railed balconies. It is located at the foot of the castle and is a fun place for a stroll as well as to enjoy the city’s many fado restaurants which serve local specialties and offer fado-style music. The Terreiro do Paco (also known as Praca do Comercio), is located on the riverfront, and is known as one of the most important squares in Lisbon. It served as the royal palace for two centuries prior to being destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Today, it is a pedestrian square from which you can reach the Tagus River. The Chiado and Bairro Alto districts are two archetypal Lisbon neighborhoods. Chiado is trendy with its celebrated cafes, bookshops, boutiques, and theaters, including Lisbon’s opera house. Bairro Alto is the center of the city’s nightlife with its many pubs, clubs, and bars. The LUX club is one of Lisbon’s most famed nightclubs and, with its total capacity of over 3000, has been a favorite spot of the rich and famous. Actor John Malkovich, who shot a movie in Portugal and fell in love with the club, is now a partial owner. The famous restaurant, Bica do Sapato (“the tip of the shoe”), is located adjacent to the club. Luis de Camoish Square, named after the national poet, connects the two districts. Avenida Da Liberdade, the "Portuguese Champs-Elysées,” is a wide boulevard with tall trees and dozens of statues lining it as well as an Egyptian pillar dedicated to Portugal’s independence. The business center of Lisbon, the street is also lined with hotels, banks, cinemas, and international brand stores. Further down the boulevard is Rossio Square with its statue of Dom Pedro IV (who was both the King of Portugal and the Emperor of Brazil) and 2 French- style fountains. Lisbon is home to world-class museums. The Museu Caloute Gulbenkain is located in a lush park and is one of the city’s gems. Much of the museum’s collection came from a wealthy Armenian oil magnate, Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, who endowed his vast, outstanding private art collection to Portugal before he died in 1955. The National Museum of Ancient Art is Portugal’s national gallery which houses a large collection of 15th and 16th century paintings, as well as Oriental, European, and African art. The National Tile Museum, Museu Nacional do Azulejo, houses a unique collection of decorative tiles, known as azulejos, and it traces tile-making from its Moorish and Spanish influences through the rise of Portugal’s unique style. The MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology - which is housed in a converted power station on the waterfront, is an outstanding new cultural center in Lisbon. The 12th century Lisbon Cathedral, located near the Alfama district, is Lisbon’s oldest and most famous church. Originally a Romanesque cathedral, the structure was destroyed in the earthquake and today it blends architectural styles. Its two bell towers are a beautiful part of the city’s skyline. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the Monument of the Discoveries, is located on the banks of the Tagus River estuary– the place from which ships departed for maritime discovery voyages. Designed by 2 Portuguese architects, it is a massive structure in the shape of the prow of a ship which celebrates the Portuguese explorers who established the country’s seafaring prominence. In the interior of the 170-foot high tower, there is an exhibition about the history of Lisbon, and the monument’s viewing platform offers spectacular views. The 1988 World’s Fair Expo was held in Lisbon, and the entire eastern part along the river was renovated and became a showcase for the city’s new and modern architecture. There is a new complex called Park of the Nations (Parquet das Nacoes) which includes the Oriente train station and the Vasco de Gama shopping mall. There are two large towers designed as a giant sail, and the Oceanarium is a huge, popular aquarium with over 8000 sea animals. A train transports visitors between attractions. The village of Sintra is a 30 minute train ride from Lisbon and is a not-to-be-missed day trip. Sintra was a royal resort, and it is home to extraordinary palaces, a Moorish castle, a semi tropical garden, and scenic views. With its combination of captivating tradition and modern touches, Lisbon is a popular destination – and city that many tourists long to return to!

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