Orlando C. Says:
We are considering a trip to Lisbon in April of this year and wondering if you have any suggestions on a good area to stay. We have been hearing a lot about the city center, but after reading your articles, it sounds like we could be better off staying in different area.
IL Contributor in Portugal Terry Coles Says:
Hello Orlando,
Thanks so much for contacting International Living and for your interest in Portugal, my adopted home country.
Lisbon is a lively city with much to see and do. Since it’s built on seven hills, make sure everyone in your party is wearing durable walking shoes with good soles for climbing up and down and navigating cobblestones.
The first time we visited Lisbon, we hired driver with a little golf-cart type of vehicle to show us around. These can be found in any of the touristy parts of the city and are a fun way to get an overview. Lisbon has no shortage of tourist buses too for a quick introduction to the city.
Some of the popular neighborhood’s visitors love to explore are Chiado, Rossio, the Alfama, or Restauradores. All are within walking distance to the main points of interest in the downtown area. You could follow the promenade that runs from Rossio to the Castelo de São Jorge, a former royal residence. The hilltop has been in use from 48 B.C., so the walk will take you by the current excavation of a Roman theater, as well as the fortress-like 12th-century Sé (Cathedral) on top of the hill in Alfama.
Another lovely area is Belém, which lies along the picturesque Tejo River estuary. Nearby are the magnificent St. Jeronimino Monastery, the famous tower of Belém, and the Monument to the Discoveries on the waterfront. Be sure to pop into the world-famous bakery, Pasteis de Belém, and sample one (or six) of the original custard tarts.
Prior to your visit, I highly recommend you join Facebook groups like Expats in Lisbon to connect with those who already live there and can give you real insiders’ insights about living in Lisbon.
With a sufficient number of tourists and expats in Lisbon, you needn’t worry about finding plenty of English-speaking locals either.
I do hope you enjoy your adventures in Lisbon… and perhaps someday, will find yourself living in Portugal.
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