Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and located on the north bank of the Tagus Estuary, on the European Atlantic coast. It is the westernmost city in continental Europe offering a variety of options to the visitor, including beaches, countryside, mountains and areas of historical interest.

The charm of Lisbon rests in its strong links to the past; renovated palaces, magnificent churches and an impressive castle mirror the city's rich cultural heritage. Its blend of neighborhoods, culture and architecture distinguish this capital city uniquely from the other European capitals.

Built on seven hills on the River Tejo, Lisbon ofers colourful quarters to discover and explore: the Baixa, one of Lisboa’s busiest quarters; Alfama and Mouraria, the Alfama being one of the oldest quarters in Lisbon; Lisbon’s most traditional quarters are Bairro Alto and Madragoa which are characterised by cobbled streets: Bairro Alto is one of the most picturesque quarters in the city; Belém on the banks of the Tejo River offers unforgettable architectural highlights in Manueline style.

Lisbon hosts a great number of remarkable museums of ancient and modern art, including the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, National Museum of Contemporary Art, National Coach Museum, and Carmo Archaeological Museum. Lisbon is not all culture and history; Bairro Alto is a center of nightlife with various restaurants and bars where you can find the traditional Portuguese music, Fado.

History

According to legends, Lisbon was founded by Ulysses. Most likely Lisbon was founded by the Phoenicians and displays arabic influences.

After 450 years under the rule of the Moors, Christians reconquered Lisbon in the 12th century. It was only during the middle of the 13th century that Lisbon became the capital of Portugal.

The breakthrough for Portuguese expansion came in 1498 when Vasco da Gama discovered the sea route to India. This was indeed the beginning of a golden age, characterised by the Manueline architectural style named after King Manuel I, with its typical decorative use of maritime motifs. During the Portuguese Age of Discoveries, Lisbon became a spice and jewellery trade centre.

The city centre was almost completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1755 and rebuilt under the direction of the Marquise de Pombal. 

Climate

The influence of the Atlantic Ocean provides Lisbon with a pleasant climate throughout the year. The agreeable temperatures in the summer months are an open invitation for a walk by the river, or to spend an afternoon in one of the many street cafés to be found all over the city. Although the temperatures may fall somewhat in the autumn and winter months, sunshine is almost always a constant feature. In September the average temperature is: air 26°C and sea 19.5°C.

Currency

The currency in Portugal is the Euro. Foreign currency may be exchanged at banks, exchange offices and automatic teller machines.

Electricity

All sockets follow European standards. To use American-type plugs, a 220-volt transformer should be used together with an adapter plug.