Cheap flights to Lisbon

Lisbon offers the perfect getaway destination with its combination of waterfront location, historic attractions, galleries and museums, mild climate and easily accessible beaches. And when the sun goes down, head to the hilltop district of Bairro Alto with its restaurants, bars and vibrant nightlife.

Attractions

One of the principal attractions of Lisbon is that it offers plenty to see and do but without the stress associated with some other major European capitals. Wander through the maze of alleys and streets that make up the historic core of the city, the Alfama, to the Moorish Castelo de Sao Jorge which has stood for centuries. Walk its ramparts and enjoy spectacular sea and city views. Don't miss too the World Heritage-listed Torre de Belem, a monumental harbour fortress built in the 16th century.

Plunge into the depths of the ocean at Oceanario, Lisbon's blockbuster aquarium and sea-life centre, where 8,000 species inhabit seven million litres of sea water in giant tanks. From here, stroll to the Chiado, the hub of Lisbon's intellectual and cultural life and take in a coffee at the iconic A Brasileira café.

You'll also want to allow time to visit the UNESCO-listed Mosteiro dos Jeronimos church and monastery which was begun in the 15th century to celebrate the safe return of the explorer Vasco De Gama who is interred here. The monastery features spectacular stone carving inside and out.

Arts and culture

The jewel in Lisbon's museums and art galleries is the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum which contains paintings by the likes of Rembrandt, Monet and Renoir. Nearby is the Centro de Arte Moderna which features 20th-century art by national and international artists including Hockney.

Also well worth seeing is the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga which includes European art from the 14th to the 19th century by artists such as Durer, Bosch, Cranach and Courbet.

And, in the evening, you can choose from a wide range of theatre and other performing venues. Catch a classical music concert at the Sao Carlos Theatre or live music and dance at the Estoril Casino.

Eating and drinking

Lisbon's burgeoning food scene is getting every more diverse and offers meals to suit every taste and pocket. Feitoria is a Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the riverfront. Reservations are essential at 100 Maneiras, one of the city's best restaurants, which has no set menu but ten taster courses that change daily. For something less pricey try the Pharmacia in Lisbon's apothecary museum which serves fresh Mediterranean-influenced food and tapas in flacons and test tubes.

Nightlife

Many locals head to the Bairro Alto come nightfall. Ease into the evening with drinks at Maria Caxuxa, a converted bakery which offers 1950s-style armchairs and sofas with DJs. Or enjoy a cocktail, funky jazz and stunning views from the terrace of Noobai Café. From here head to the dance floor at the very popular Lux club which has big name DJs and a roof terrace. Arrive early.

Shopping

Embaixada is a converted 19th-century palace which offers Portuguese lifestyle products. Best souvenirs are soap, cork products and chocolate.