Lisbon tour full day
Program Lisbon, the millenarian city of the seven hills, with
the classic views they command, like at the top of Eduardo VII park. From here
we see the wide estuary of Tagus river and Sao Jorge castle.
Cross the central Marques de Pombal square and go down by the
XVIII century boulevard called Liberdade avenue to the popular Restauradores
and Rossio squares it's the heart of Lisbon since Roman times, and the
Pombaline downtown which has been the shopping area for more than 2000 years.
The majestic waterfront Comercio square, facing the
extraordinary estuary of the river, once the welcome gate to seafarer and
caravels. Close by is the nucleus of ancient Lisbon. Drive by the oldest
quarter, Alfama, with the structure of the medieval city, with labyrinthine
narrow streets, steep stairways and alleys, tiny squares. If possible, we'll
stop in a handicraft shop for a taste of Port wine.
The XVI century "pointed stones" palace -
renaissance building with its uncommon facade, Santo Antonio de Padua church –
where Saint Anthony of Padua was actually born, the very ancient Cathedral -
stop to see the church, symbol of Lisbon Christianity.
Go down the hill to the harbour passing by the Renaissance Sao
Vicente, pantheon of the last Portuguese monarchs and Santa Engracia church,
national pantheon of Portuguese presidents, with multicoloured marble and
crowned with an impressive dome.
Go up another hill to the picturesque Bairro Alto,
section of Fado singers, bohemian haunt of artists and writers, passing close
by Chiado, the elegant shopping area.
Pass by Estrela basilica - marble construction with an
outstanding dome, one of Lisbon's most eye-catching landmarks the Parliament
of Portugal – an outstanding neo-classical palace.
The tour continues along the riverside by the harbour with
sights of one of world's leading cruise destinations.
Cross the 25 Abril bridge and go to the statue of Christ, a
Catholic monument overlooking Lisbon, inspired by the statue in Brazil. Stop
for another superb panorama.
Returning to Lisbon we cross again the bridge and go to Belem,
the most monumental and historical quarter, we pass by Belem palace, official
residence of the President of Portugal. Stops at Belem Tower – icon of the Age
of Discovery (stop for photos, drinks and toilettes), the Monument to the
Discoveries – evoking the maritime expansion. Close by is Jeronimos Monastery,
magnificent example of the Manueline style, the most impressive symbol of
Portugal's power and wealth during the Age of Discovery (stop to see the
church).
Close by there is the famous confeitaria de Belem, which makes
Pasteis de Belem, a delicious Portuguese egg custard tart pastry, considered the
typical pastry of Lisbon.
On the way back, we go by Restelo district, a sumptuous
residential area and chic ambassadors’ district, Monsanto park, the XVIII
century aqueduct, Espanha square, the bullfight ring (oriental style
construction from the XIX century), Republica avenue (the widest and longest with
noble buildings and palaces) and modern Lisbon.