ABOUT LISBON, PORTUGAL

If you take a long look at Lisbon, you realize that it is different from all others. Finding out why wouldn't be a waste of time. It would involve a voyage between the seven hills on which the city is built on, and centuries of history in districts such as Alfama, Castelo and Mouraria. Discovering Lisbon involves taking some time to notice the small details, the stone pavings, the tiles on the floor, the iron on the verandas and the fountains found in the typical gardens. The history of Lisbon can be found in the views from the majestic castle, and on the brows of each and every hill. Lisbon is not only about the past, it is also about the here and now. Through its modern business districts, and the new avenues which are springing up, Lisbon proves that it is a city in constant development.

The city of Lisbon is a new point of reference in the European cultural scene. Many cultural and entertainment centres are appearing, making Lisbon an exciting and entertaining destination.

Even though Portugal is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, the atmosphere is still typically Mediterranean and going out at night is not surprising, given the Portuguese habit of enjoying being in bars at any given opportunity. The real Lisbon culture is in the streets; the people are used to going to bars, drinking and talking until late at night.

Lisbon, while a city of contrasts, is more importantly a city of balance. The modern and the traditional, the old and the new, the past and the future all come together here in brilliant unity. In a city whose history and traditions are as rich as its traditional cuisine, it's no surprise that Lisbon keeps travelers coming back for more.

The city on Seven Hills, the birthplace of fado, a maze of dark and narrow streets that date back for centuries, and now, more than ever, Europe's westernmost capital city has quickly become one of the most cosmopolitan. Prized for its seamless mixture of tradition and modernity, Lisbon is like no other place on earth. From Alfama, to the Parque das Nações, to the historical district and the new and thriving business district, Lisbon is one of Europe's most beautiful cities.

The center of the city, apart from being the business and commercial core of the city, also contains many landmarks and shopping locations.  Lisbon also has an Underground network that can take you anywhere in a matter of minutes. Therefore, from Saldanha or Campo Pequeno, you can get to any other part of the city.

The towns near Lisbon are just as interesting to visit, and provide for a change of scenery and sights that cannot be found in the city. In around twenty minutes you can go to the beach or to the countryside. North of the city is beautiful Cascais, a town whose rich history is evident in its wealth of historical landmarks and attractions. It also has a large number of beaches. To the south, Costa da Caparica, a fishing village, also has wonderful beaches and allows you to see what a traditional Portuguese fishing village is like

Lisbon's nightlife is diverse. Every visitor to Lisbon should visit one of the many Casas de Fado. This unique musical genre is treasured by the Portuguese, and live performances are common in the districts of Bairro Alto, Alfama and Costa do Castelo. Also in Bairro Alto, there are a number of world-class bars and discos.

Throughout the year, cultural and entertainment events happen all over the city, making Lisbon one of the most animated and happening European capitals.

Quick Facts:

Population: 681,063

Elevation: 404 feet/ 123 meters

Average Winter Temperature: 55 degrees F / 13 degrees C

Average Summer Temperature: 80 degrees F / 27 degrees C

Major Industries: Textiles, Footwear, Leather, Furniture, Ceramics and Cork

Ethnic Mix: 70% Portuguese, 20% Brazilian, European and from Macau, 10% African Time Zone: GMT

Country Dialing Code: +351

Area Code: 21

Electricity: 220/380V, 50Hz; sockets follow European Standards; to use US plugs, visitors need a 220 transformer and adapter plug.

Currency:  Euro

Language:  Portuguese; many residents are multilingual but appreciate visitors who learn a few phrases in Portuguese.

Time zone:  GMT+1

Tipping:  5 percent to 10 percent of total bill at restaurants and for taxi drivers are customary.

Transportation:  Trams, buses, the Metro Taxis and ferries make it easy to get around the Lisbon area.  Open-air buses offer visitor tours; the Metro has single-tri, 10 trip and seven-day tickets.   Locals consider the Metro the fastest and cheapest way to get around, through visitors are advised to avoid rush hour.  River ferry boars also offer visitor tours.

Airport:  The Lisbon Airport is served by 30 commercial and six freight carriers that fly to about 80 destinations.  Flights from the US originate primarily in Boston and Newark, NJ.  Connections are widely available through most European gateways.  Buses, taxis and rental cars are available on site.  Purchase vouchers for taxis at set prices based on distance and travel time.  Many drivers are multilingual.

Ground Transportation:
As one reaches Lisbon, there is absolutely no trouble in getting to your hotel or if you are headed to any of the cities around Lisbon. There are several car hire services available in the city and you would find their service desk and courtesy phone in the Lisbon International Airport itself. The Lisbon International Airport is conveniently located five miles North of Lisbon proper. Airport Shuttle Bus runs daily.

By Train:
The Metro or Underground Railway in Lisbon started in 1959 and has been a lifeline of the city since then. It connects the city along four lines: The Red Line, The Blue Line, The Green Line and The Yellow Line.   

By Tram:
Lisbon boasts of a modern tram service run by the Carris company which makes getting around Lisbon and enjoying the sight around at the same time a sheer pleasure. They also offer special tours of the historical areas replete with architectural wonders in specially restored 20th century quaint trams. This is by far the best way to enjoy the old world charm of Lisbon.   

By Taxi
Taxis are found in abundance in Lisbon and one can hail a cream colored cab any time of the day.  A taxi will become 20% more expensive between the hours of 22:00-6:00, but the convenience they provide after a late night out at a bar or a nightclub is priceless.

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