My Ultimate Guide to Lisbon Continued…
- A must see when you are in Lisbon is to visit the breathtaking town of Sintra. A picturesque Portuguese town that is set amidst the pine-covered hills of the Serra Mountains. Sintra has become the most popular day trip when in Lisbon, and once you are there you will see why. Sintra is easy to get to, you can book an excursion with your cruise line. You can also get the train from Lisbon Rossio Station to Sintra and the trip takes approximately 40 minutes and cost 5 Euros Return trip. On Arrival the main attractions are the Palácio Nacional, the historic centre, the Castelo dos Mouros, and the Palacio da Pena. My favourite part was the colourful Pena Palace it is a beautiful Palace, like one I have never seen. The exterior is tiled with vivid colours, and every look you take you notice something different. The Palace is surrounded by forest, just like a palace should be, well according to the Disney princess movies I’ve watched! I would highly recommend a visit to Sintra if visiting Lisbon.
- Belem is an another must see, so easy to get to by boat, tram, bus or train. We took the train and an in a couple of stops (2 Euros) you are in Belem. Belem is well known for many things. It was the area explorers used to set off to explore places like India, Brazil, and Africa. It has some stunning monuments celebrating the seafaring history of the area. Most importantly to me, its home to the delicious Pastel de Nata the traditional custard tart.
The Padrão dos Descobrimentos is an iconic monument in Lisbon, it honors the great Portuguese’s Explorers. It is stunning to see, right on the edge of the River Tagus. With a great panoramic viewing platform at the top of the 52m high monument (5Euros) the views are stunning. This is where the River meets the sea.
The main attraction is the Torre de Belem, the Belem Tower stood there to guard the city incase of attacks from the sea. This tower was the first sign that the Explorers were home. A bit like when I see Elland Road, when I’ve been away from Leeds! Prepare yourself for a queue, this attraction is always busy. If you wish to enter the fort (6Euros) If you go on a Sunday Morning the Entrance is FREE.
When you are there please go visit Pasteis de Belem and have an egg custard tart, this was the original bakery. An interesting fact I read was that the bakeries were always near a Monasteries as the egg’s whites were apparently used by the monks to starch, they clothes. This meant the Yolks were going spare so were given free to the bakeries close by! That Is no Yolk!
- My final thing to do and I have to say was one of my favourite things especially if the sun is out. Was to sit at a waterfront bar facing the 25 de Abril Bridge with the Cristo Rei Christ Statue in the background. Listening to the local music being played on the street, people watching and just enjoying life with a glass of fizz. Cheers!
If you’re lucky you might get to see a cruise ship sail by, it’s a wonderful sight. Hopefully, it won’t be your ship, that you’ve missed due to taking my advice and enjoying a few too many Portuguese wines!
Whatever you decide to do when in Lisbon, I hope you have the best time and enjoy every minute in this fascinating beautiful city.
Lots of Love & Keep Cruising,
Bonnie x
