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20 facts about Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal. Image: Shutterstock

Key facts about Lisbon you better know before booking your flight

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure this summer, why not consider exploring Lisbon? This ancient city, built on seven hills, has something for everyone. From the vibrant street art scene to the breathtaking views from the many miradouros (viewpoints), Lisbon is a destination that will awaken your senses and leave you wanting more.

Don’t wait any longer, book your flights to Lisbon for this summer season and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this enchanting city. The adventure of a lifetime awaits!

Here are 20 key facts about Lisbon you should know before visiting the city.

  • Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal.
  • It is one of the oldest cities in Europe, predating other major European cities like Paris, London, and Rome.
  • Lisbon is built on seven hills, which gives it a unique topography and breathtaking views from different points.
  • The city is located on the banks of the Tagus River, which is the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula.
  • Lisbon is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the University of Lisbon, which was founded in 1290.
  • The city has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers.
  • Lisbon is known for its traditional Portuguese cuisine, which includes seafood, pastries, and wine.
  • The iconic yellow trams that run through the city have been in operation since the 1930s.
  • Lisbon has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Roman, Visigothic, Moorish, and Christian influences.
  • The city was devastated by a massive earthquake in 1755, which destroyed much of the city and led to widespread rebuilding and modernization efforts.
  • The Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most famous landmarks in Lisbon and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
  • The Jerónimos Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most important examples of Manueline architecture in Portugal.
  • Lisbon is also known for its vibrant street art scene, with many of the city’s buildings covered in colorful murals and graffiti.
  • The city is home to a number of museums and cultural institutions, including the National Museum of Ancient Art and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum.
  • Lisbon is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year.
  • The city’s historic center, known as the Baixa, is a maze of narrow streets and charming plazas.
  • The Parque das Nações, a modern waterfront district, was built for the 1998 World Exposition and is now a popular leisure and entertainment area.
  • The Vasco da Gama Bridge, which spans the Tagus River, is one of the longest bridges in Europe and a major landmark in Lisbon.
  • Lisbon has a thriving music scene, with a range of summer festivals and other events throughout the year, including the Lisbon Jazz Festival and Rock in Rio Lisboa.
  • The city is also known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants staying open late into the night.
Female traveler walking in Lisbon streets
A female traveler walking in Lisbon streets. Image: Shutterstock

If you want to make the most of your trip to Lisbon, be sure to check out the quick guide of Lisbon! This guide will help you navigate through the city and discover its many hidden gems, from the best places to eat traditional Portuguese cuisine to the must-see landmarks and attractions.

And before wrapping up browse the discounted flights for summer 2023, and you may also find cheap airfares to Lisbon.

 

Van Flyer
the authorVan Flyer
Contributor at Eurodirections.com
Van is a contributor to Eurodirections.com travel magazine. He is passionate about technologies, travel and blogging.