The Port of Lisbon, Portugal
ABOUT
Lisbon, capital of Portugal, is one of the oldest cities in the world and the second-oldest European capital city (after Athens), predating other modern European capitals, including Rome, by centuries. Established by pre-Celtic tribes and later Phoenicians, Julius Caesar made it a municipium called Felicitas Julia, adding the term to the name Olissipo.
After a long and tumultuous history, Lisbon flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries as the centre of a vast empire during the period of the Portuguese discoveries. This was a time of intensive maritime exploration, when the Kingdom of Portugal accumulated great wealth and power through its colonisation of Asia, South America, Africa and the Atlantic islands. Evidence of the city’s wealth can still be seen today sfome of its magnificent structures.
Since that time Lisbon has gone through a dramatic earthquake and subsequent tsunami, wars, occupations and then political unrest. It has come through all of it and stands proud today.
Population just over 3,000,000
Currency is the Euro.
THINGS TO DO
As you can imagine there is a wealth of things to do in this ancient city. From exploring the old city to visiting the Oceanarium (the largest in Europe) you will not lack variety. If you have not visited before, it is worthwhile doing a City Tour to really get a sence of what is on offer.
Tours include Hop on Hop off buses, walking tours of the city, following the footsteps of the Knights Templar and much more. There are many museums, one dedicated to the beautiful tiles that adorn many old buildings, castle, monastry and the famous Belem Tower.
It is known for its charming old neighborhoods, colorful architecture, old-fashioned trams, delicious food, and rich history. Decadent and enchanting, Lisbon is a city that’s easy to love.
Talking of food – you cannot leave Lisbon without trying some of the fantastic local dishes. A particular favourite is the Pastel de Nata.
OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO
We have been lucky enough to visit Lisbon on a number of occasions, at different times of year and on different ships. At times we have taken organised tours, some via the ship and others via local agents. It is also an easy city to explore on your own. A very memorable trip was a walking tour that we booked privately. Our knowledgeable guide took us through the streets to a little cafe that served us coffee and that all important Pastel de Nata (homemade of course), then on to a shop selling traditional salted fish for a tasting before heading to a little bar for a panoramic view of the city and a well earned drink. The journey continued with a trip across the river to a very popular restaurant where we were served fish stew – not particularly to our taste but it was a traditional and very popular dish. The whole trip was very memorable, interesting, fun and good value.
One of the most memorable visits was during the Maiden Voyage of Cunard’s Queen Anne in May 2024. It was her first visit to the port and special to be able to photograph her there – see more in our video
You can never tell quite what you will find as you stroll through the city. There are cafes and squares at almost every turn where you can check out local beer, wine, foods. Most will have seating inside, but on a nice day there is nothing quite like sitting outside and enjoying the local atmosphere. Walking along the seafront is very enjoyable too.
Of course the lead up to Christmas is a very special time to visit the city. Like so many others it is decorated with lights, trees and they have festive markets as well. One of the most famous trees is situated in Lisbon’s main square, Praca do Comercio.
To check out our experiences in Lisbon just click the video links below – and if you enjoy the content simply ‘Like’ and ‘Subscribe’ to see more (subscription is free).