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Discover Lisbon Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city and we want to help yo discover this wonderful city, share photography, news events and tips what to see

Top 10 Things To See And Do In Lisbon, Portugal | From Tram Chasing To Pastéis De Nata Lisbon, Portugal – While it might...
15/12/2024

Top 10 Things To See And Do In Lisbon, Portugal | From Tram Chasing To Pastéis De Nata

Lisbon, Portugal – While it might not come up top on our list of European countries to visit, we had a blast in Portugal on our trip this year. In fact, there are no direct flights between Singapore to the capital of Portugal, Lisbon. Despite that, there are actually a lot of reasons to visit Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, and here are the top 10 things to do in Lisbon!

You will see these white-top yellow-body century-old trams running through the city once you arrive. The most famous tram route E28 goes through the hilly east side of the city centre, going through the narrow streets of Lisbon up to Lisbon Cathedral, up to Castelo de S. Jorge. Hop on the trams for a ride around town or simply walk the streets and get ready your camera to capture the moment where the tram navigates the charming streets of Lisbon. Cont...https://therantingpanda.com/2024/12/15/panda-picks-top-10-things-to-see-and-do-in-lisbon-portugal-from-tram-chasing-to-pasteis-de-nata/

Lisbon Tourism Presents New Lisbon Story Video“Baroque Route” is the latest video in the Lisbon Stories series, an initi...
12/12/2024

Lisbon Tourism Presents New Lisbon Story Video

“Baroque Route” is the latest video in the Lisbon Stories series, an initiative by the Lisbon Tourism Association (ATL) to promote the destination abroad, including in Spain, France, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States and Brazil. The video invites viewers to explore Lisbon's rich culture and heritage through its Baroque museums and monuments.
For approximately five minutes, the video presents an itinerary of emblematic sites such as the Baroque Museum, the Palácio do Correio-Mor, the Palácio de Fronteira, the Palácio do Marquês de Pombal, the Palácio Ludovice, the Aqueduto das Águas Livres, the Palácio Nacional de Mafra, the Quinta Real de Caxias, the Palácio Nacional de Belém, the Museu Nacional dos Coches and the Museu Tesouro Real. It also mentions the numerous churches and chapels that were remodelled and redecorated in the Baroque style during the reign of King João V.
Paula Oliveira, executive director of the Lisbon Tourism Association, states: “The decorative richness and architectural complexity of the Baroque style reflect an era of prosperity that marked Lisbon's cultural identity. Present in museums, monuments and churches, the Baroque left a strong historical legacy that now invites everyone to visit.”
The Baroque style had its splendour in Lisbon during the reign of King João V in the first half of the 18th century. Although many of the buildings from this period were destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, several examples of Lisbon's 'Golden Age' have survived to the present day.
“Baroque Route” reinforces ATL's commitment to publicising Lisbon's historical, cultural and artistic wealth on the national market and abroad.
The video is available in six languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish, French, Italian and German.

Lisbon will host EuroPride in June 2025, a historic moment for the city and the LGBTIQ+ community. Each year, a differen...
03/12/2024

Lisbon will host EuroPride in June 2025, a historic moment for the city and the LGBTIQ+ community. Each year, a different European city is chosen to host EuroPride and this will be the first time the event is held in Portugal. It promises to be a momentous occasion, celebrating diversity, inclusion and the vibrant spirit of the LGBTIQ+ movement. Activities and events will include the big EuroPride parade, debates, seminars and workshops, stage shows and parties.
Arraial Lisboa Pride, one of the city’s biggest and most colourful festivals, will be held from June 14 to June 22 in the iconic river-facing square, Praça do Comércio, with open-air bars, concerts, DJ sets and workshops.
On June 21, the annual Pride March and EuroPride Parade 2025 will transform the city with a display of colour, music and festivity, celebrating love and freedom and providing a platform for LGBTIQ+ advocacy and awareness. Whilst the exact route and timings will be confirmed nearer the time, the march will start in the neighbourhood of Príncipe Real, which sits at the centre of the city’s gay scene and is seen as a cultural hub for the LGBTIQ+ community.
A couple of weeks before, Lisbon is also set to welcome Lisbon Bear Pride (May 26 to June 1, 2025). This annual event celebrates the diversity and inclusivity of the bear community within the broader LGBTIQ+ movement, promoting body positivity and acceptance.
In addition to the pride celebrations, the city will also boast a number of cultural landmarks and events that celebrate the movement and rights including Q***r Lisboa - International Q***r Film Festival (September 2025, dates tbc), an annual film festival showcasing international films that highlight LGBTIQ+ themes.
For more information, ideas, and inspiration on visiting Lisbon, go to www.visitlisboa.com.

Lisbon Wins World’s Leading Heritage City Destination for the First TimeLisbon has been awarded World’s Leading Heritage...
02/12/2024

Lisbon Wins World’s Leading Heritage City Destination for the First Time

Lisbon has been awarded World’s Leading Heritage City Destination for the first time and World’s Leading City Break Destination for the second time at the 31st edition of the World Travel Awards. The award ceremony took place on November 24 on the island of Madeira, in Funchal.

Carlos Moedas, Mayor of Lisbon, stated that: ‘Lisbon is, today, a symbol of authenticity, excellence and modernity. This double distinction reflects the uniqueness of the city, where historical and cultural wealth blends with constant innovation. This international recognition further strengthens Lisbon’s role as a destination of excellence and highlights the importance of preserving its heritage.’

In recent years, Lisbon has focused on rehabilitation and preservation initiatives for its cultural landmarks, an effort now recognised for the first time with the World’s Leading Heritage City Destination award. The city’s rich historical and cultural heritage is indisputable, reflecting various civilisations and key moments in Portugal’s history. Notable landmarks include the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower, the Cultural Landscape of Sintra and the Royal Palace of Mafra, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The city’s soul, Fado music, is also recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Lisbon also strengthens its appeal as a city break destination, receiving this distinction for the second time. With direct flights from several major global capitals, mild temperatures year-round, a wide range of tourist and cultural attractions and excellent accessibility, the city is well-positioned to attract visitors from all over the world.

The World Travel Awards annually recognise excellence in global tourism, awarding destinations, hotel chains, airlines, and other entities in the travel industry. These awards represent a mark of quality and a prestigious seal for those who stand out in providing the best that the global tourism industry has to offer.

Own article

Lisbon to ban night flights for four hours a nightLisbon airport is set to ban night flights in response to years of com...
19/11/2024

Lisbon to ban night flights for four hours a night

Lisbon airport is set to ban night flights in response to years of complaints and protests by local residents.

Portugal’s Minister for Infrastructure and Housing, Miguel Pinto Luz, made the announcement in parliament on 7 November 2024, during scrutiny of the proposed State Budget, telling delegates the measure took into account the findings of a working group on the problem.

In the light of widespread “criticism from municipalities, mayors and citizens regarding the noise caused by airplanes, as well as pollution”, Pinto Luz called the move a “giant step forward”, declaring: “I can announce here that we are going to implement a ‘hard curfew’ that will prevent flights between 01:00 and 05:00 in the morning.”

https://traveltomorrow.com/lisbon-to-ban-night-flights-for-four-hours-a-night/

New Ways to Explore the City this WinterWith its mild climate, stunning coastline and rich nature, Lisbon offers a uniqu...
14/11/2024

New Ways to Explore the City this Winter

With its mild climate, stunning coastline and rich nature, Lisbon offers a unique winter holiday experience. Here, Visit Lisboa shares tips on things to do in the city this winter, from seasonal delicacies, wine festivals and new art experiences to surfing spots and flamingo watching.
Seasonal delicacies and wine festivals for a culinary fix

Recently crowned the Best Culinary City Destination in Europe at the 2024 World Culinary Awards, there is no doubt that Lisbon is a paradise for foodies year round, with the winter months bringing a delightful array of seasonal delicacies that warm the body and soul.

Not-to-be-missed dishes perfect for winter include caldo verde, a kale soup often served with chorizo, and bacalhau à brás, a traditional cod dish prepared with potatoes and eggs. The city’s bakeries tempt visitors with fresh pastéis de nata, even more irresistible in the colder months. Additionally, roasted chestnuts are available in carts throughout the city during winter.

For wine aficionados, the second edition of Xira Wine Fest will take place from November 15 to November 17 at the Pavilhão Multiusos in Vila Franca de Xira. The three-day event is a celebration of local winemaking and gastronomy, with live music and cultural performances also taking place. For more information, please visit https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/events/xira-wine-fest.

Centro de Arte Moderna Gulbenkian for a new art experience

Following an extensive renovation by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, in collaboration with landscape architect Vladimir Djurovic, the Centro de Arte Moderna Gulbenkian (CAM) reopened in late September, offering travellers something new to explore this winter. Drawing inspiration from the concept of Engawa, an element of traditional Japanese architecture that emphasised a harmonious connection between interior and exterior, the renovation transformed CAM’s original building and added a striking 100-metre canopy with a ceramic roof. The renovated CAM now features updated exhibition spaces, new galleries and a vast garden area. For more information and details of the exhibitions showing this winter, please visit:

https://gulbenkian.pt/cam/en

Sado Estuary Nature Reserve for flamingo watching

A short distance from the south of the city centre is the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, where the Sado River meets the Atlantic to create a unique marshland habitat. Winter is an extraordinary time to visit, as it offers the chance to see flamingos in their natural environment. These graceful birds gather in the estuary during the autumn and winter, creating a breathtaking spectacle against the backdrop of tranquil waters and lush scenery. Birdwatchers and nature lovers can wander along scenic trails and viewpoints, capturing unforgettable moments as they watch the flamingos. The peaceful ambience of the estuary, combined with the vibrant colours of the flamingos, makes for an unforgettable winter escape.

Ericeira and Cascais for winter waves

Just an hour’s bus ride from Lisbon’s Campo Grande, Ericeira, Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve, boasts diverse surf spots suitable for all skill levels. Beaches like Ribeira d’Ilha, Pedra Branca, and Coxos offer exhilarating conditions for experienced surfers, while Praia do Sul features gentler waves, making it ideal for beginners. Praia de Carcavelos, located in Cascais and easily accessible from the Cais do Sodré train station, is another fantastic option for novice surfers and families. With its wide sandy beach and lively atmosphere, Carcavelos provides excellent surfing conditions and a vibrant social scene with beach bars and restaurants, making it the perfect destination for a winter surf getaway.

For more information, ideas, and inspiration on visiting Lisbon, go to www.visitlisboa.com

https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/visit-lisboa-recommends-new-ways-to-explore-the-city-this-winter/

11/11/2024
11/11/2024

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07/11/2024
New Lisbon Metro trains revealedThe acquisition, which is co-financed in the amount of €45 million by the Sustainable 20...
04/11/2024

New Lisbon Metro trains revealed

The acquisition, which is co-financed in the amount of €45 million by the Sustainable 2030 Program and the remainder by the Environmental Fund, is based on the "expected increase in demand on the Metro network in the coming years in relation to the expansion of the network".

https://ow.ly/Q4Jz50TZ4x7

Lisbon is “Best City Break Destination”Lisbon has won the award for “Best City Break Destination”, in 2024, at the 25th ...
30/10/2024

Lisbon is “Best City Break Destination”

Lisbon has won the award for “Best City Break Destination”, in 2024, at the 25th edition of the Star Awards. https://ow.ly/yIKy50TW3yr

Aroeira has long been considered among the jewels of golf in Portugal, and the iconic Lisbon venue is embarking on a sig...
29/10/2024

Aroeira has long been considered among the jewels of golf in Portugal, and the iconic Lisbon venue is embarking on a significant rebrand after been given the new identity of PGA Aroeira Lisboa.

The renaming of the 36-hole Lisbon venue and its two courses comes at the same time as a major investment in its golf and leisure facilities, creating the only PGA National in Portugal and putting it alongside other leading PGA resorts including the likes of previous Ryder Cup hosts Gleneagles in Scotland and The Belfry in England.

Famously nicknamed as the ‘Wentworth of Lisbon’ after first opening in the 1970s, the PGA partnership further strengthens the reputation of one of Portugal’s premier golf destinations.
"This is the start of a new era for Aroeira - one that golfers, like everyone here, will be very excited about," said Nuno Sepulveda, co-CEO at Details - Sports, Hospitality, Leisure - PGA Aroeira Lisboa’s management company.

"“It is our ambition for PGA Aroeira Lisboa to set a new standard for golf in Portugal, blending tradition and innovation under the esteemed PGA brand. With our world-class facilities and two fantastic golf courses, we look forward to welcoming golfers from all over the world."

Richard Barker, executive director - business development of The PGA, said: "We are delighted to welcome Aroeira to our portfolio of PGA National Branded Properties, marking a significant step in the development of golf in Lisbon.

"PGA Aroeira Lisboa stands out as a premier destination, now competing with the best offerings in Portugal. This exceptional development will elevate the golfing experience for visitors worldwide, whether for travel, tournaments or tuition and we are eager to showcase this to our PGA members.

"Furthermore, our partnership with the Details Group promises significant support for PGA members, as we will work together to host future PGA events in Portugal over the coming years."

The new partnership with The PGA will see Aroeira’s two 18-hole championship courses being given new names, with Aroeira Pines Classic being rebranded as PGA Aroeira 1 and Aroeira Challenge becoming PGA Aroeira 2.

A two-time host of the Portuguese Open in 1996 and 1997, PGA Aroeira 1 is widely regarded as one of the best layouts in continental Europe. Designed by Frank Pennink and meandering through tall avenues of pine forest and surrounded by wildlife, the 6,650-yard layout is to reopen on October 15 following a major renovation.

Upgrades to the course - including tee boxes and bunkers, which will be reshaped and filled with new sand - started in June. As part of the resort’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, a new state-of-the-art irrigation system has been installed to improve putting surfaces and dramatically reduce the amount of water required.

Greens will also benefit from the introduction of bentgrass, known for creating fast and true surfaces, while fairways will be planted with Bermuda grass to further cut water consumption. Landscaping throughout the layout is also receiving extensive care, maintaining the course’s characteristic natural beauty while paying respect to the surrounding environment and native wildlife.

Aroeira Challenge, which is framed in the same spectacular setting as its older sibling and features a combination of large, undulating greens and a number of lakes to negotiate, will receive a similar upgrade, after which time it will be renamed PGA Aroeira 2.

In addition to making upgrades to the golf courses, other investment will see the creation of a variety of new real estate options from villas to apartments, all designed by leading architects and ideal as an investment opportunity, a primary residence or a holiday home. These will be complemented by an array of sports and leisure facilities including restaurants, a café and a new clubhouse.

https://ow.ly/SR7j50TV689

Lisbon has won, for the first time, the award for Best Culinary City Destination in Europe, at the World Culinary Awards...
25/10/2024

Lisbon has won, for the first time, the award for Best Culinary City Destination in Europe, at the World Culinary Awards. The honour was received at a ceremony held in Dubai, and among the competing cities were Barcelona, Copenhagen, Florence, London, Paris and Vienna.

Gastronomy is one of the key points when choosing a tourist destination and Lisbon has long been recognised for its diverse and high-quality offer. From typical and local restaurants with traditional food, to signature restaurants and Michelin-starred chefs who reinterpret classic flavours, there is a wide selection that attracts visitors from all corners of the world.

Carlos Moedas, Mayor of Lisbon, said that “it is a source of great pride to see Lisbon’s identity and traditions honoured for the first time in this sector and how innovation combines with these gastronomic traditions. It’s recognition of the quality of the gastronomy for which Lisbon is so well known and an award that encourages all the professionals who keep it alive. The local economy is increasingly a distinctive factor for the city of Lisbon and gastronomy contributes greatly to the quality of Lisbon’s tourism.”

The World Culinary Awards, a “sister” event to the World Travel Awards, are celebrating their fifth edition this year and aim to promote global culinary culture and encourage gastronomic tourism. They highlight the best practices and innovations in the sector and cover various categories, including restaurants, chefs, hotels and other culinary-related establishments. The winners are chosen by public vote.
For more information https://ow.ly/c3Zx50TT5Gp

An age-old symbol of the Portuguese capital, Lisbon's rickety yellow trams have become such a magnet for tourists that s...
25/10/2024

An age-old symbol of the Portuguese capital, Lisbon's rickety yellow trams have become such a magnet for tourists that some locals complain they can no longer grab a ride.

Lisbon began operating trams in the late 19th century to transport passengers up the steep and narrow streets criss-crossing the hilly old city.

Today's visitors travel back in time admiring the wooden flooring and old-fashioned appearance of carriages that offer spectacular views of the Tagus river and picturesque pastel-coloured buildings.

But as visitors flock to the capital in larger numbers -- almost nine million in 2023 -- some residents are growing exasperated with the effects of mass tourism.

"The tram? It's not for us anymore, it's reserved for tourists!" said Luisa Costa, a resident of the working-class neighbourhood of Mouraria who is in her 60s.

With foreign visitors cramming the carriages, Costa now waits at a stop for electric minibuses put on by the Lisbon transport company Carris for residents who take the same route.

At Martim Moniz square in central Lisbon, passengers sometimes queue for more than an hour at a tram stop on line 28, the most popular route which winds through the most photogenic spots.

Red trams aimed at tourists have also been created but are less popular due to their higher costs.

Other tram lines have been put back into service after being scrapped during the 20th century with the development of the urban bus network.

Despite the measures, "the situation keeps getting worse", said Fatima Valente, an 82-year-old pensioner.

Trams have become "a toy" for tourists to fill their Instagram stories at the expense of residents who "really need" them, journalist Fernanda Cancio wrote in the Diario de Noticias daily earlier this month.

Local associations have for years demanded a more reliable public transport system for both residents and tourists.

Carris secretary general Ema Favila Vieira conceded that reconciling the needs of tourists and residents "can be difficult" as the trams are a "much sought-after cultural facility".

Five historic tram routes currently connect Lisbon, with a sixth line equipped with longer and more modern carriages running along the river.

https://ow.ly/RUOB50TT4q5

This year’s International Golf Travel Market wrapped up another highly successful event in the city of Lisbon on Thursda...
23/10/2024

This year’s International Golf Travel Market wrapped up another highly successful event in the city of Lisbon on Thursday (October 17) after bringing together over 300 golf travel buyers, 300 golf travel suppliers and 35 media from all over the world.

IGTM 2024 provided the platform for business growth, networking, and collaboration within the golf tourism industry, with a total of 50 countries represented across the combination of buyers and suppliers over four days of events.

Held once again at the FIL Exhibition Centre in the heart of Lisbon, the event showcased the best in golf travel experiences. Industry leaders discussed trends shaping the future of golf tourism, while the event fostered strong partnerships and facilitated over 10,000 one-on-one business meetings.

The IGTM 2024 programme included enhanced opportunities for the event’s attendees to network: from the opening and closing functions and dedicated speed networking session, to IGTM’s Golf Day for attendees to explore four of Lisbon’s most highly-rated courses – Aroeira Pines Classic, Bom Sucesso Golf, Dolce CampoReal and Penha Longa.

Andrew Walton, operations manager at Lofoten Links Golf Club in Norway, commented: “IGTM has been fantastic for us, giving us the opportunity to meet with a lot of new buyers, gaining leads and we’ve even secured a booking for next year since being here. As we are a remote golf course, events like IGTM where we have face time with the most important buyers are just what we need.”

Sonia Fornarolo, head of promotions for Italy Golf & More, commented: “More concrete business has been confirmed at IGTM this year than ever before. We have been delighted with the presence of new buyers – especially a noticeable increase of buyers from the US and North America – as well as buyers focussing not only on golf, but also more focussed on qualified wine itineraries and culture to combine golf, MICE and incentives.”

James Somerside, marketing manager for IMG Golf Course Services, added: “IGTM continues to be a key part of our venues’ annual calendar. The opportunity to connect with tour operators, tourist boards, and relevant industry partners continually makes this a show that adds great value to the venues that we represent.”

Rob Saunders, senior sales manager at Toptracer, commented: “As newcomers to IGTM, we’re pleased to be able to allow so many golf travel professtionals to experience what we’re delivering to 1,300 driving ranges around the world. We’ve got a lot of live conversations with the attendees we’ve met and we’re looking forward to cementing the relationships we’ve formed at the show.”

Emerging destinations also attended this year which are important for many of the world’s golf tourism agents and tour operators, offering new options for their client’s travel plans.

Salaam Malki, head of Visit Aqaba, commented: “Visit Aqaba’s participation at IGTM 2024 in Lisbon was an incredible success, showcasing Aqaba as a top-tier golf destination. The event offered fantastic business opportunities and valuable industry connections. We highly recommend IGTM for anyone looking to grow their presence in the golf tourism sector.”

Expanding the event to 37% new qualified buyers and travel agents who have golf tourism in their sights saw many new faces attend for the first time.

Trenia Barnes, owner of Platinum Destination Travel, commented: “My first IGTM has been great, we have a lot of clients who are looking for golfing holidays so this event really is a perfect fit for us. We’re grateful to have time to speak in detail with those products our clients are looking for, especially in Italy, Spain and Scotland.”

Yvonne Hawley, travel advisor with Protravel International, powered by Global Travel Collection, added: “Throughout IGTM I engaged with a diverse array of exhibitors. The opportunity to connect face-to-face with industry leaders allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of emerging products and services tailored to meet the evolving needs of golf travellers.”

James Bryan, managing director at UK-based golf travel business Golf Escapes, added: “The quality of the meetings at IGTM has been brilliant and it has been a seamless week. There have been three of us with strong agendas, which has been fantastic to meet so many new contacts and catch up with our key golf suppliers from around the world, all under one roof.”

David Griffiths, Event Director for IGTM, commented: “We are delighted with the feedback from this year’s event and hearing that business is already being committed before our attendees have departed. For the last two years, the city of Lisbon has shown our attendees outstanding hospitality and, building on this success, we are pleased to announce Cannes as the host city for IGTM 2025 to highlight the symbiotic relationship of the golf and luxury industries, and where we look forward to welcoming delegates for another edition of networking, innovation, and discovery in the world of golf travel.”

IGTM 2025 will take place October 20-23 at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, Cannes, France. For more details visit https://ow.ly/EMMw50TRmMb.

https://ow.ly/OIBX50TRmMR

Lisbon may not be the first city that comes to mind as a Christmas destination, but through December it offers a mild cl...
22/10/2024

Lisbon may not be the first city that comes to mind as a Christmas destination, but through December it offers a mild climate, historic charm and a festive spirit that blends Portuguese traditions with modern attractions. From dazzling light displays to bustling markets and river cruises, the team at Visit Lisboa (https://ow.ly/mXBK50TQrSP) has picked out the city’s top Christmas attractions that make it an unexpected gem during the festive season.

Wonderland Lisboa

Wonderland Lisboa is one of Lisboa’s largest Christmas markets, transforming Eduardo VII Park into a winter wonderland filled with festive delights. The market’s wooden chalets offer everything from traditional Portuguese Christmas snacks to handcrafted gifts, while an ice rink and Ferris wheel provide fun for all ages. Open from late November until Christmas, visitors can stroll beneath twinkling lights while enjoying sky-high views of the city from the Ferris wheel.

Giant Christmas Tree at Praça do Comércio

Lisbon’s grand plaza, Praça do Comércio, is home to a giant Christmas tree which, at around 30 metres tall, is one of the biggest festive trees in Europe. Decorated with thousands of lights, the tree becomes the centrepiece of the square, creating a festive atmosphere along the banks of the Tagus River. At night, its glow reflects on the river, enhancing the city’s already magical scenery. Another feature of the square over Christmas is a temporary ice-skating rink that is a holiday favourite with locals who are unused to frosty fun.

Christmas Lights in Baixa and Avenida da Liberdade

Lisbon’s streets sparkle with spectacular Christmas light displays, with illuminations bathing the city in a festive glow. Every year, new designs are added to bring a fresh touch and timeless charm to evening adventures through fascinating neighbourhoods that include the historic Baixa district and Avenida da Liberdade, home of Lisbon’s most luxurious shops.

Nativity Scenes at Estrela Basilica

Each year, the Baroque Estrela Basilica showcases one of Lisbon’s most revered nativity scenes, or “Presépios.” Crafted with intricate detail, these nativity displays bring to life the story of the birth of Jesus with elaborate figurines and often surprising creative elements. Some of the scenes are set in traditional Portuguese settings, giving visitors a unique twist on the biblical tale.

Christmas Markets

Rossio Square, in the heart of Lisbon, hosts a small and charming Christmas market with traditional stalls offering gift ideas and seasonal foods. For families, the highlight is the Christmas train which takes passengers on a fun ride around the local streets. Another option is Lisbon’s former bull ring, Campo Pequeno, which is transformed into a bustling Christmas Village for two short periods each December. Visitors enjoy a variety of stalls offering everything from handmade crafts to seasonal delicacies, and the market buzzes with festive energy, live music, street performers and a variety of traditional food options.

The winding streets of Alfama and the riverside district of Belém host Christmas markets that bring a touch of old-world charm to the festive season. Smaller than some of the city centre alternatives, visitors can browse stalls selling everything from intricate jewellery to artisanal soaps, with the smell of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine filling the air. These markets are perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while soaking up the local holiday atmosphere.

Fado Christmas Concerts

The soulful melodies of Fado, Lisbon’s traditional music, take on a seasonal flavour over Christmas, with special concerts held in churches, theatres and Fado houses, adding a layer of festivity to the hauntingly beautiful tunes. Performers sing about the nostalgia and warmth of the season, blending their songs with traditional Christmas themes.

Convent Sweets and Festive Pastries

Lisbon has a rich tradition of convent sweets and pastries that is continued into Christmas. Seasonal delights such as Bolo Rei, a Portuguese take on the king cake, and Rabanadas, a cinnamon-dusted bread similar to French toast, fill bakery windows during the period. Many of these pastries originated in the convents where nuns perfected the recipes over centuries.

Christmas Cruises on the Tagus River

The city’s festive lights can be enjoyed from a different perspective with a Christmas cruise on the Tagus River. These evening cruises take passengers along the scenic riverbanks for spectacular views of the illuminated Praça do Comércio, the famous Belém Tower, and other iconic landmarks. With Christmas music playing softly in the background and mulled wine served onboard, the cruises provide a peaceful and magical way to take in Lisbon’s holiday spirit.

For more information, ideas, and inspiration on visiting Lisbon, goto https://ow.ly/zpNp50TQrSN.

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