Portugal is a wondrous place with many incredible things to do and see, but no visit to Portugal is complete without a trip to Lisbon. Lisbon has something for everyone, be it food markets or authentic Fado music. Read on for 7 things that every traveller should know about Lisbon to have the best time:
1. Comfortable footwear is a must
This might seem like basic common sense, but it really is worth remembering as this is a city designed for lots of walking! Lisbon is a hilly place and the cobblestone streets can be murder on the feet. It can also be very slippery, windy, and sandy. Packing a reliable pair of sneakers will do you the world of good, or even a pair of walking sandals.
2. Do not forget to pay for public transport
Many people get away without paying for public transport. This can be met with huge fines, so make sure you go ahead and pay for your bus, train, and metro tickets in advance. It’s unethical not to pay for public transport and the police do undertake random checks, so be prepared to have your ticket ready to display.
If you think you might forget to pay for your public transport, or will instead prefer not to use public transport at all, a Lisbon motorcycle tour can easily be your next best option. With about 91 rental locations worldwide, and even more opening every week, this is easily one of the most convenient ways to tour parts of the city. Lisbon is a rental location so that you can book your motorcycle online, and you’re good to go.
3. Make sure you view the city from above
Portugal is a beautiful city, and one of the best things about it is that you can view it from above. The panoramic views of Lisbon are magical and shouldn’t be missed. You’ll be able to see over Lisbon’s maze of streets, and there are some great look out points where you can relax after a long day of exploring.
4. Eat at the Lisbon food markets
Restaurant road is a good place to go for some food, but there are so many Lisbon food markets that offer an incredible selection of food. The great news? Lisbon is one of the cheapest European sites to eat out in! Pastel de Nata pastry is a speciality and it has been around for 170 years, so make sure you give it a go.
4. Ride the old tram
There are some seriously unique kinds of public transport in Lisbon. The old fashioned trams, lifts, and funiculars will catch your eye as they have been in operation for over 100 years! Just make sure you’ve looked into Radical Storage Lisbon so you don’t have to cram them onto the transport with you.
5. Listen to some authentic fado music
Fado music is strong and heartfelt and is only in Portugal. You can hear the passion in the singers voices and it’s something you wouldn’t want to miss if you’re a music lover – especially a live music lover. There are some truly amazing street performances, and locals may even stop to sing and dance with the performers.
6. Be careful of the tourist traps and inflated prices
Lisbon, just like everywhere else, does have some tourist traps and inflated prices. Lisbon can be a budget friendly location, but there are some restaurants and hotels that cost a lot more than the average one you find. It’s always best to check the prices and compare them with similar spots in the same neighbourhood.
Have you visited Lisbon? What was your favourite thing to see or do?
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