LISBON

Lisbon, the City of Seven Hills, is one of the oldest cities in the world.  Not surprisingly, its rich history is expressed through its diverse architecture and culture.  ‘Portuguese Pavement’, which resembles mosaics, was developed there, and throughout the city, Fado music can be enjoyed.  Lisbon cuisine, as expected, is centred around produce from the sea.
 
Overlooking the ocean and the mouth of the Tagus River, Lisbon offers extraordinary views from many vantage points. Exploring the various elevations by taking a variety of forms of public transportation, ranging from trains to funicular to subways to buses to ferries, is efficient, informative and fun.
 
The Bairros (districts or quarters) characterize everything from contemporary chic to historic cobblestones, and offer attractions ranging from the massive Lisbon Oceanarium to the largest collection of royal coaches and carriages in the world, to the Ephemeral Museum, and much more in between.
 
There are many day trips that range from the UNESCO status fairy tale palace of Pena with its stunning views to the medieval town of Obidos to a host of historical religious buildings, especially those of the Knights Templar.  Along four coastlines, we find calm family-friendly beaches as well as those challenging  surfers… something for everyone.