This tour explores Lisbon’s infatuation with Europe - and especially with France - in the last quarter of the 19th century. The opening of a majestic train station in Downtown allowing a direct connection to Paris became a clear sign of progress. But equally or more important was to recreate in Lisbon the culture, the elegance and the cosmopolitan magic of the City of Light.
This urge for the so-called Civilization meant, on more pragmatic grounds, a replica of a French Boulevard in the heart of the Portuguese capital. This implied building a constellation of imposing buildings decorated with greenery, public art and street furniture. Today the Liberty Avenue area has the highest concentration of upmarket shops, luxury hotels and large companies offices. However, many locals never got accustomed to this transplanted French urbanscape and even today the city inhabitants have a nonlinear relationship with its main avenue.
Our tour begins at the outskirts of the medieval remparts and explores the modern city that developed on the old rural suburb of the Valverde creek, starting with the Restauradores monument and square.
Before Avenida da Liberdade there was the Public Promenade, the heart of Lisbon during the Romantic Age. We explore its remaining heritage, including allegoric statues and majestic manor houses.
The Avenue became the most lively place in Lisbon since the '20s and well into the '80s of the XXth century. Discovery the cinemas, the theaters and the legendary Parque Mayer.
Enter the main motor traffic hub in town, a controversial and ever-changing place, that almost everybody likes to hate.
A congress and cultural center - dubbed City Palace - was planned to crown the top of the park. Intended as the icon of the city Acropolis, it was lambasted as too Modernist and was never built, leaving a large gap between the two pairs of giant columns topped by golden wreaths. It's still an odd symbol of Salazar dictatorship and one to the best panoramic views of Lisbon and its surroundings.
Meeting point: the Statue of Dom João da Câmara next to Teatro D. Maria II, facing Gare do Rossio
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm climate. With its charming streets, historic trams, and breathtaking viewpoints, Lisbon offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century tower is an iconic symbol of Lisbon's Age of Discoveries.
Lisbon's oldest district, known for its narrow, winding streets, Fado music, and historic charm.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sintra is a romantic town with stunning palaces and castles.
Shredded codfish with eggs, potatoes, and onions
Custard tart with a flaky pastry crust
A sandwich with meat, cheese, and a beer-based sauce
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Euro (EUR)
GMT+1 (Western European Time, WET)
230VV, 50HzHz
Lisbon is generally safe, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
Santa Apolónia, Oriente
Sete Rios, Jardim do Campo Grande, Gare do Oriente
Efficient and clean, with four lines connecting major attractions.
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Car, Bike, Scooter
A romantic town with stunning palaces, castles, and lush gardens.
A charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, historic sites, and a relaxed atmosphere.
A medieval town with a well-preserved castle, narrow streets, and charming shops.
Price varies by option