It is almost as far as you can go southwest and still be in Europe - without dropping off the edge, into the Atlantic Ocean. At the very periphery of Europe, Lisbon is often strangely overlooked by aficionados who pontificate on the virtues of the best European cities. True, it does not have the iconic landmarks; many dismiss its cuisine and wine as lower tier; and, largely as a consequence, it is not perceived as having the pizzazz of Paris, Rome or Berlin.
Thank goodness! I've been going to Lisbon since the 70s and one of the most enduringly consistent and attractive features of the place is how amazingly few tourists there are. The almost perfect climate is pretty great, too.
It has among the lowest crime rates of any of the best European cities. Plus, it is a true boon for the inveterate stroller, despite all the winding hills, with their sudden, stunning vistas that smack you rounding all kinds of bends.
Sure, the cuisine lacks the fanfare of Greek, Italian or French. Don't let PR mislead you, though. Portuguese cooking is delicious and Lisbon is the place to experience it. If you love sea food you're in for a great treat. Also, if you underestimate the wine, you'll be making a big mistake. Notwithstanding a tradition of Portuguese export wine not being so exceptional, the domestically available vintages are delightful. Even an inexpensive glass from the most out of the way, sawdust on the floor, wine bar offers perfect a accent to the proceedings. And the port! Have you ever had white port? The coffee is fantastic, too. Lisbon should be famous for its cafes!
It has all that old Europe stuff: cathedrals, museums, galleries, regal town squares and great architecture. And, if you want to hit the beach, a short trip south takes you to Costa da Caparica: 19 ruggedly beautiful, sandy beaches, served by a cute little railway, running their length. It'll drop you off at which ever beach you'd like. (In summer, I'd suggest making the trip on week days.)
Lisbon is a wonderful place to visit. However, I would particularly recommend it to those considering longer stays. If you have the option of a professional sabbatical, a longer vacation that allows you to stay put and learn the rhythms of a place, the ex-pat life, or if you want to write your great novel and need an inspirational getaway, you can't beat Lisbon.
And you can't beat it for price. Compared to the rest of Europe, Lisbon is a real deal. Certainly it is more expensive than it was back in the 1970s, but in equivalent dollars less than you might think.
If you wanted to live or make an extended stay in Lisbon, it is important to know the neighborhoods, so you can choose the one best suited to your needs and moods. Here are a few of my favorite.
The best place to start is my personal favorite, Alfama. It is the geographic and architectural legacy of the original fishing village from which Lisbon grew. That village sensibility remains and is felt everywhere in the neighborhood, amid its charming, winding medieval streets, with the castle constantly looming behind and the grand vistas over the deep blue sea. The housing stock shows the wear of time, no doubt. There are though increasing numbers of lovely renovations becoming available, and nowhere in town will you get a better deal on them than in Alfama.
If Alfama's largely family oriented atmosphere is too sedate for you, perhaps you'd be more into the party-hardy lifestyle of the bohemian Bairro Alto. Brimming with characters with character, wonderful restaurants, divine wine bars, and hopping dance clubs, Bairro Alto is the go-to spot for all manner of Lisbon night life. It's an exciting area to be and to live. It certainly, though, isn't for everyone. Say, for instance, you're one of those people who actually can't sleep through thumping dance music or throngs of merrymakers. Still, if you enjoy the vibe, a good compromise might be to look for something in the Bica and Santa Catarina neighborhoods. They're still real close, have the feel of Bairro Alto, but are considerably quieter at night. They're located just down the hill a ways.
Somewhat further north, a bit away from the action, is Principe Real. Formerly known as the antiques and gay part of town, this area has been rapidly turning into a hip locale for young professionals. The rental prices are higher, but it is very tranquil and packed with lush gardens and charming mansions.
Another spot with higher prices but oozing charm and character is Santos. It is situated right along the riverside, giving it oodles of cache. It has become a bit of a design hub in Lisbon. That shouldn't intrude much though on your enjoyment of this peaceful residential area with its very good quality housing.
So, whatever your preferences, the wild or the sedate, there are some options to suit your taste. Rest assured, whatever your preference, Lisbon has it. So, if you have the chance, don't miss your chance to experience what remains among the most affordable treasures among the best European cities.
Thank goodness! I've been going to Lisbon since the 70s and one of the most enduringly consistent and attractive features of the place is how amazingly few tourists there are. The almost perfect climate is pretty great, too.
It has among the lowest crime rates of any of the best European cities. Plus, it is a true boon for the inveterate stroller, despite all the winding hills, with their sudden, stunning vistas that smack you rounding all kinds of bends.
Sure, the cuisine lacks the fanfare of Greek, Italian or French. Don't let PR mislead you, though. Portuguese cooking is delicious and Lisbon is the place to experience it. If you love sea food you're in for a great treat. Also, if you underestimate the wine, you'll be making a big mistake. Notwithstanding a tradition of Portuguese export wine not being so exceptional, the domestically available vintages are delightful. Even an inexpensive glass from the most out of the way, sawdust on the floor, wine bar offers perfect a accent to the proceedings. And the port! Have you ever had white port? The coffee is fantastic, too. Lisbon should be famous for its cafes!
It has all that old Europe stuff: cathedrals, museums, galleries, regal town squares and great architecture. And, if you want to hit the beach, a short trip south takes you to Costa da Caparica: 19 ruggedly beautiful, sandy beaches, served by a cute little railway, running their length. It'll drop you off at which ever beach you'd like. (In summer, I'd suggest making the trip on week days.)
Lisbon is a wonderful place to visit. However, I would particularly recommend it to those considering longer stays. If you have the option of a professional sabbatical, a longer vacation that allows you to stay put and learn the rhythms of a place, the ex-pat life, or if you want to write your great novel and need an inspirational getaway, you can't beat Lisbon.
And you can't beat it for price. Compared to the rest of Europe, Lisbon is a real deal. Certainly it is more expensive than it was back in the 1970s, but in equivalent dollars less than you might think.
If you wanted to live or make an extended stay in Lisbon, it is important to know the neighborhoods, so you can choose the one best suited to your needs and moods. Here are a few of my favorite.
The best place to start is my personal favorite, Alfama. It is the geographic and architectural legacy of the original fishing village from which Lisbon grew. That village sensibility remains and is felt everywhere in the neighborhood, amid its charming, winding medieval streets, with the castle constantly looming behind and the grand vistas over the deep blue sea. The housing stock shows the wear of time, no doubt. There are though increasing numbers of lovely renovations becoming available, and nowhere in town will you get a better deal on them than in Alfama.
If Alfama's largely family oriented atmosphere is too sedate for you, perhaps you'd be more into the party-hardy lifestyle of the bohemian Bairro Alto. Brimming with characters with character, wonderful restaurants, divine wine bars, and hopping dance clubs, Bairro Alto is the go-to spot for all manner of Lisbon night life. It's an exciting area to be and to live. It certainly, though, isn't for everyone. Say, for instance, you're one of those people who actually can't sleep through thumping dance music or throngs of merrymakers. Still, if you enjoy the vibe, a good compromise might be to look for something in the Bica and Santa Catarina neighborhoods. They're still real close, have the feel of Bairro Alto, but are considerably quieter at night. They're located just down the hill a ways.
Somewhat further north, a bit away from the action, is Principe Real. Formerly known as the antiques and gay part of town, this area has been rapidly turning into a hip locale for young professionals. The rental prices are higher, but it is very tranquil and packed with lush gardens and charming mansions.
Another spot with higher prices but oozing charm and character is Santos. It is situated right along the riverside, giving it oodles of cache. It has become a bit of a design hub in Lisbon. That shouldn't intrude much though on your enjoyment of this peaceful residential area with its very good quality housing.
So, whatever your preferences, the wild or the sedate, there are some options to suit your taste. Rest assured, whatever your preference, Lisbon has it. So, if you have the chance, don't miss your chance to experience what remains among the most affordable treasures among the best European cities.
About the Author:
For all the best scoop on the urban hit list of Europe, we've got the dope at the Best European Cities site. Check out Mitchell Jones insightful piece on the top cities to visit in Eastern Europe .
