Taking a vacation to this vibrant capital city is rewarding on so many different levels.
The weather here is more temperate than that of the UK and Ireland. During the summer months temperatures can reach in excess of 30ºC whilst in winter, the wettest of the seasons here, temperatures can drop as low as 7ºC so if you are planning to travel here for a city break or a long weekend in December remember to travel with warm clothing packed in your suitcase.
Aside from the climate travellers are rewarded with some stunning examples of architecture, from medieval examples of forts and camps to modern day examples of cutting edge architecture.
This capital city is a must for shopaholics. This is the least expensive capital city in which to go shopping in the whole of Western Europe.
Taking a trip to Baxia (downtown) will reward you with the opportunity to buy everything from local artisan, homemade goods, to high street names and “expensive” designer labels.
The city is located on the north bank of the River Tagus. This river and the port that has been constructed over time is the main reason for the survival and massive growth of the city and the country as a whole.
This city has never forgotten the history and importance of the river to trade and exploration and the local residents are very proud of this fact.
The historic nature of the city is reflected in the geography of the area, the best way to get around is on foot and the most enjoyable way of exploring it is to “get lost” in the maze of back streets and to enjoy the hospitality of one of the numerous traditional bars, tavernas and cafes that line the streets of the old quarter.
Aside from the almost “living” history of the area, people interested in history and the past will be enthralled by the number of world renowned museums and art galleries that are located here. The most famous of the museums and galleries have wonderful examples of classic and contemporary modern art as well as some priceless examples of Portuguese artefacts.
Be sure to check out Carmo Archaeological Museum, Calouste Gulbenkian Museum,
National Museum of Contemporary Art, National Coach Museum, Berardo Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.
This capital city is not just about museums and sightseeing though. For the party animals try the Bairro Alto, which is the centre of nightlife is located in the city.
Here you will be able to enjoy modern and exciting discotheques and nightclubs which seem to be open almost twenty four hours per day. Or, for those of you who prefer a more sedate pace there are many bars and restaurants which perform the traditional “Fado” guitar and acoustic singing style of music which remains just as popular in the modern day that it did do in the past.
Whatever you decide you are looking for in a city break, long weekend or family vacation this destination will not fail to deliver.
Flying to the Portuguese capital city from the UK and Ireland is a relatively simple task. Most of the major international airports in the UK and Ireland fly direct to Portela Airport on a daily basis.
Depening upon where your chosen airport in the UK or Ireland is located flight times can very from around two hours to three hours.
The airport is located a short distance away from the city centre. You can choose to take a taxi, or to use the local bus service to travel to your chosen accommodation. You could however use the newly opened Airport Metro. This was opened earlier in 2012 and now provides easy connections between Portela Airport and the city centre with travel times taking around 25 minutes.
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