Located at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the capital city of Lisbon, Portugal is a charming mix of the traditional and the modern. Lisbon is a popular tourist destination all year round due in part to its old world charm, its distinctive white limestone architecture, and its scenic hillside streets. The city's history extends back more than 3,000 years to when it was settled by the Phoenicians.
Attractions in Lisbon include majestic cathedrals, ancient monasteries, Moorish castles, and colorful museums. Notable sights include the elegantly neoclassical Basílica da Estrela, the Casa do Fado e da Guitarra Portuguesa, which traces fado's history, and the graceful Gothic ruins of the Convento do Carmo. Also popular is the Palácio Nacional de Pena, a Disney-esque pastel palace which was rebuilt by Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg.
Lisbon's hotels are fairly busy year-round due to conventions, fairs, and continual tourism. Discounts are sometimes available during the lower season, which runs from November through February. Before accepting a given room, consider inspecting it first, as noise from the streets can be annoying. Especially in older properties, room prices are constant even though individual rooms vary considerably in location and size; by taking the time to view a few rooms, you can secure the best room at no extra charge.
|
