Lisbon: Portugal’s vibrant city
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a lively city with beautiful buildings, great food and people enjoying traditional Fado music. Lisbon has many celebrations and festivals. Besides the well-known places, there are also secret spots like old bookshops, vintage stores, and peaceful gardens. In the Alfama district, there's a charming bookstore called Livraria Bertrand, one of the oldest in the world. Near the River Tagus, the LX Factory is a trendy spot with vintage shops and art galleries in an old industrial complex. For history buffs, the Carmo Convent Ruins reveal a hauntingly beautiful sight, where a roofless church stands as a reminder of the 1755 earthquake. To escape the city's bustle, the Estufa Fria offers a peaceful oasis with lush gardens and exotic plants. Lastly, the lively Feira da Ladra flea market on Tuesdays and Saturdays is a treasure trove for bargain hunters seeking unique souvenirs and antiques. Lisbon's lesser-known points add an extra layer of enchantment to this captivating city.
Places to visit in Lisbon
Lisbon is a vibrant city that offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions. The Portuguese capital has something for everyone, whether you're interested in exploring historical landmarks or indulging in delicious cuisine. Lisbon's streets are lined with colourful buildings, quaint cafes, and stunning views of the River Tagus. The city is also famous for its seafood and pastries, making it a paradise for food lovers. Lisbon is a destination that should be on every traveller's bucket list.
- Oceanário de Lisboa: Oceanário de Lisboa is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe and a must-visit destination in Lisbon. It is home to a wide variety of marine species, including sharks, rays, and penguins. The aquarium also houses four different marine ecosystems, each with its unique inhabitants. The highlight of the Oceanário is the massive central tank, which holds over 5 million litres of water and features a stunning array of marine life.
- Museu Calouste Gulbenkian: The Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is a world-class museum that showcases a vast collection of artefacts from around the world. It is named after Calouste Gulbenkian, an Armenian businessman and art collector who bequeathed his vast collection to the museum. The museum's collection includes ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman art, and European paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts. The museum also has a beautiful garden, which is a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Convento do Carmo: The Convento do Carmo is a fascinating remnant located in the heart of Lisbon's historic centre. The convent was built in the 14th century and was one of the most important religious buildings in the city until it got affected by an earthquake in 1755. Today, the remnants provide a glimpse into the city's past and offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore this ancient structure. The convent's Gothic arches and columns are particularly striking, and visitors can climb to the top of the convent's bell tower for a spectacular view of the city.
- Igreja de São Roque: The Igreja de São Roque is a stunning church that dates back to the 16th century. It is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Lisbon and is known for its ornate decoration and baroque architecture. The church is home to several chapels, each with its unique style and artwork. The highlight of the church is the Chapel of St. John the Baptist, which is covered in intricate gold leaf decoration and features a stunning ceiling painted by the Italian artist Cesare da Sesto.
- Aqueduto das Águas Livres: The Aqueduto das Águas Livres is a magnificent aqueduct built in the 18th century to bring fresh water to Lisbon. The aqueduct spans over 14 km and features 35 arches, some of which are over 65 metres tall. Visitors can explore the aqueduct and walk along the top of the arches, which offer gorgeous views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The aqueduct is considered one of the most impressive engineering feats of its time.
- Basílica da Estrela: The Basílica da Estrela is a beautiful church that was built in the 18th century. It is one of Lisbon's most impressive examples of Baroque architecture and is known for its stunning interior decoration. The church is home to several chapels, each with its unique style and artwork. The highlight of the church is the massive dome, which is covered in beautiful paintings depicting scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. Visitors can also climb to the top of the dome for a panoramic view of the city.
Tips to remember while travelling to Lisbon
- Taste the delicious pastel de nata on your trip to Lisbon.
- Take a ride on Tram 28 for convenience.
- Don’t forget to witness the sunset from Praça do Comércio.
Lisbon Airport (LIS)
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), or Lisbon Airport, serves as Lisbon's primary international airport. It is around 7 km north of the city centre. The primary passenger terminals of Lisbon Airport are Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Majority of flights, including all international flights, are handled by Terminal 1. A free shuttle service connects these two terminals. Public transport and private transport, including buses, metro, and taxis provide a reliable connection between the airport and the city.
Lisbon visa requirements
In order to travel to Lisbon, a valid Schengen visa is a prerequisite that must be obtained. The visa application process can be expedited by submitting the following documents:
- A valid passport.
- Two passport-size photos.
- A copy of the completed and signed application form.
- A copy of your hotel booking, flight booking, and a detailed plan of your activities during your stay.
- Proof of finances to support your travel and stay in the country.
- Valid medical insurance with a cover of 30,000 pounds.
- Cover letter.
- Proof of civil status.
- Invitation letter with the family member's or sponsor's address and phone number.
- Bank statement of the last six months.