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A long weekend in Lisbon

  • Writer: Léa Levy
    Léa Levy
  • Jan 10, 2018
  • 2 min read

Updated: Mar 5, 2020


Jerónimos Monastery, Lisbon

Lisbon, capital of Portugal


Lisbon, called Lisboa in Portuguese, is the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in the world. It is also one of the most beautiful cities in world. I went on a four-day trip to Lisbon, in July 2017, and let me say that it was very hot! Indeed, the weather in Portugal is generally good but it can be really hot in the summer, so I will advise you to carry sunscreen everywhere you go.

Things to do in Lisbon


Jerónimos Monastery, Lisbon

Visit Jerónimos Monastery


Jerónimos Monastery is located in the Belém district and along the Tagus River. It was created in the 15th century in the Portuguese late Gothic tradition. It is a beautiful place to visit: it has two levels of decorated cloisters and arches. It also has gorgeous stained-glass windows. The monastery is a bit far from the city centre but you can take the tram to get there and perhaps spend your afternoon in Belém! You also might want to try the famous pastries from Belém: Pastéis de Belém (also called Pastéis de nata) which are delicious custard tarts. I would suggest to try those from Pastéis de Belém bakery which is known for owning the original recipe.

Visit Belém Tower


Torre de Belém, Lisbon

The Belém Tower, called Torre de Belém in Portuguese, is situated on the bank of the Tagus River. It was created in the 16th century and served as a defence system for the mouth of the Tagus. The stones used for its construction were the same used for the Jerónimos Monastery. The view offered at the top of the tower is gorgeous and definitely worth the wait (approximately an hour or two). Therefore, be prepared to wait because only a hundred people at a time can enter the tower. It works per groups of hundred persons: they would enter, visit it and the next group has to wait for all of them to leave before entering the tower. Be also prepared to wait under the sun so definitely make sure you'll have water and sunscreen!



Walk along the Tagus River


Tagus River, Lisbon

The Tagus River (Tejo in Portuguese), empties in the Atlantic Ocean in Lisbon. It is one of the longest river in Spain and Portugal. You can walk along its bank and admire the Sanctuary of Christ the King on the other bank of the Tagus, in Almada. It was built after the Second World War and was inspired by the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. You can also visit the sanctuary and go to Almada through the 25 de Abril Bridge which connects the north bank with the south bank. I like to call this bridge 'the little Golden Gate' because it looks the same.



Visit the São Jorge Castle



View of the São Jorge Castle from Santa Justa Lift, Lisbon

The São Jorge Castle is a Moorish castle which oldest fortifications date back to the Middle Ages. The oldest one has been built in 48 BC. This castle was dedicated to Saint George who was the famous saint-warrior and dragon slayer. The castle is worth a visit: it overlooks the city and the Tagus River. Therefore, the views offered are beautiful since the castle was built on one of the seven hills of Lisbon.


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© 2019 by Léa Levy

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