Lisbon

Lisbon is an area rich is culture and history; it is also the largest city and Capital of Portugal.
During the Roman occupation the Lusitanian raids caused Lisbon to build a wall around the area.  The Moors took over the area in 711 and built mosques.  These Moors still have a very strong influence in Alfama, one of the older sectors in Lisbon.
Lisbon then became the Capital in 1255 and had the first university in 1290.  Unfortunately earthquakes jeopardized this area as an economic hub from the 14th to the 17th centuries with one earthquake in 1755 killing 40 000 residents and destroying 85% of the city.
With such a rich history, it is little wonder that Lisbon is filled with museums, theatres and attractions that should be on every visitor to do list.

Some of the must see museums include the National Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Portuguese-style Tile Mosaics and the National Museum of Costume and Fashion.
There is also the Electricity Museum and the Roman Theatre Museum, which will fill you with awe as you walk around them. 

If you want to enjoy a theatrical production or enjoy an evening out at the opera, you must visit Teatro Nacional de Sao Carlos, the largest opera house in Lisbon, theatres include the Centro Cultural de Belem and Gulbenkian Foundation.

Spending the day taking a leisurely stroll around a beautiful park filled with plants and green spaces is on offer in Lisbon, have a picnic at Parque Florestal de Monsanto, the largest park in Lisbon or visit Parque Eduardo VII.

Spend a day or two in Alfama, the oldest area in Lisbon.  This area is on the shore of the Tagus River and boats the Castle of Sao Jorge and the Santo Antonio Church.

If it’s shopping and entertainment you are after, you must visit Bairro Alto, this area is centrally situated and is the shopping hub of Lisbon.  Chiado is also known as a shopping district and you can spend the day here and enjoy the shops and beauty this area has to offer. Be sure to visit Museu Do Chaido, the Museum of Portuguese Contemporary Art and the Church of Sao Roque.

Other great places to visit while on holiday in Lisbon are the Oceanarium.  This is the second largest oceanarium in the world and is home to four large aquariums.  The Santa Justa Elevator is the other place to visit, this is the Lisbon version of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and a ride to the top will have you in awe with the outstanding views of this beautiful area.

Once you are at your hotel, travelling around Lisbon is easy.  They use the metro, which can get you wherever you need to go.  The tram is reliable and goes just about anywhere and you also have public bus and rail to choose from, so hiring a car in this area isn’t really necessary.
With the area so diverse in culture, art and scenery, there are so many fantastic hotels to choose from.  Depending on the season and availability, they offer their rooms at discounted rates, making your holiday experience an affordable one.

The Amazonia Lisboa Hotel is a three star establishment close to Castle of San Jorge and the San Justa Elevator.  This hotel has an on-site restaurant, lounge bar and outdoor pool.  An airport shuttle is available on request and tour assistance is available from reception.

Mundial Hotel is a four star luxurious hotel close to the Castle of San Jorge and the Lisbon Cathedral.  It hosts two restaurants, a lounge bar and twenty four hour room service.  The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast to get you ready for all the sightseeing you are doing that day, a coffee shop and all air-conditioned rooms have mini bars.