5 days
5-day Lisbon
City Guide
A preplanned step-by-step time line
and city guide for Lisbon.
Follow it and get the best of the city.
5-day Lisbon City Guide
3
© PromptGuides.com
Overview of Day 1
LEAVE HOTEL
Tested and recommended hotels in Lisbon >
Take Metro Line Blue or Green to Baixa-Chiado station
09:00-09:15
Praça do Comércio
Neo-classical square
Take Tram nr 28 from Rua da Conceiçao stop to Largo
Das Portas Do Sol stop (Direction: Martim Morez)
Take a walk to the Castle of Sao Jorge - 45’ in all
10:00-11:20
Castle of São Jorge
Breathtaking views over
the city
Take a walk to Alfama neighbourhood - 10’
11:30-12:30
Alfama neighbourhood
Picturesque views
Take a walk to Sé Cathedral
12:30-13:00
Sé Cathedral
Lisbon's oldest church
Lunch time
Take the Ferry from Cais do Sodre station across the
river to Cacilhas
From Cacilhas take Bus nr 101 to Cristo Rei monument
15:30-16:10
Monumento a Cristo Rei
Breathtaking view over
the city
Take Bus nr 101 to Cacilhas
Take the Ferry from Cacilhas across the river to Cais do
Sodre station
Take a walk to Rua Augusta - 60’ in all
17:10-18:10
Rua Augusta and the Baixa streets
Lisbon's lively
pedestrian street
Take a walk to Santa Justa Elevator
18:10-18:25
Santa Justa Elevator
Excellent view over the
city
END OF DAY 1
Page 5
Page 5
Page 6
Page 6
Page 6
Page 7
Page 7
5-day Lisbon City Guide
5
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
09:00-09:15
Praça do Comércio
(Praça de Comércio, 1100 Lisbon)
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Commerce Square is Lisbon's main plaza on
the bank of river Tejo with a broad riverfront
Elegant arcades surround the square on
three sides. They were built after the Great
earthquake of 1755. More than 100.000
people died in the catastrophy
The bronze statue in the middle pays
homage to King José (1750-77) for
rebuilding the city
King José was an ineffectual king. Marquęs
de Pombal held the true power and was the
real man behind the reconstruction
Arco do Triunfo (Triumph Arch) marks the
entrance to the buzzing Rua de Augusta, a
pedestrian street in the Baixa neighborhood
Pombal erected the original arch after the
Great earthquake. After his dismissal the
arch was torn down. A new arch was put in
place 100 years later in 1873
The figures on top of the arch represent
Glory, Genius, and Valor
THINGS TO DO THERE
Walk around the square and take a look at
the statue of Dom Jose I and to the Triumph
Arch
Enjoy the view over the river Tagus (Rio
Tejo)
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Pick up information and tourist discount
cards from the Lisbon Welcome Center
Several sightseeing tour buses, trams, and
buses also stop here
MORE Info and Photos >
10:00-11:20
Castle of São Jorge
(Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisbon)
Opening hours: Mar - Oct: 9am - 9pm, Nov - Feb: 9am - 6pm • Admission: 7 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
St. George's Castle is an imaginatively
reconstructed fortress on top of the Alfama
hill. Little of the original structure remained
The original castle dates back to Moorish
times (10th century) when it served as a
royal residence
King Afonso Henriques, Portugal's first king,
seized the fort from the Moors in 1147 with
the help of northern European crusaders
traveling to the Holy land
After the Anglo-Portuguese Treaty of 1373
was singed the castle was dedicated to
England's patron saint, St. George
It served as the Portuguese Royal palace
unitl 1511 when the royal court moved to a
new palace on Comércio Square (destroyed
in the great earthquake of 1755)
St. George's castle was neglected and fell in
despair. It was reconstructed in 1938
The castle provides one of the best views on
Lisbon
THINGS TO DO THERE
Enter the castle through the Arch of St.
George
Walk around the outer terrace for the most
breathtaking views of the city
Continue to the inner castle courtyards and
climb the walls to get an amazing 360
degree view
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Discount with Lisboa Card
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
6
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
11:30-12:30
Alfama neighbourhood
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Alfama is Lisbon's oldest and most
emblematic quarter. The neighborhood's
Arabic-sounding name suggest that its
history dates back to Moorish times
The quarter retained its medieval street plan
and atmosphere. Its hard bedrock
foundation saved Alfama from much
damage in the earthquake of 1755
The area is characterized by narrow cobbled
streets, tiny squares, churches, and pastel
houses with drying laundry, birdcages and
colorful flower on their balconies
The name of Alfama comes from the Arabic
word 'al-hama' meaning spring or bath, a
reference to hot springs in the area
The neighborhood is becoming a more and
more important Fado quarter with many
Fado houses. Fado is a traditional
Portuguese music genre
Alfama offers breathtaking views of the city
and romantic picture-ready scenes
THINGS TO DO THERE
Wander around on the beautiful narrow
streets
Explore a couple of viewpoints to admire the
postcard-perfect views
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Be prepared for hilly streets
MORE Info and Photos >
12:30-13:00
Sé Cathedral
(Largo da Sé, 1100 Lisbon)
Opening hours: Daily: 9m - 7pm • Admission: Free
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Sé Chatedral is Lisbon's oldest church
dating back to 1147
It was built by Dom Afonso Henriques,
Portugal's first king, after he reconquered
the city from the Moors who ruled the city for
4 centuries
The city's main mosque was torn down and
this Romanesque cathedral was erected on
its site
The Romanesque main façade with two
castellated towers and a beautiful rosette
window above the main portal is one of the
highlights of the church
Today the church exhibits a number of
architectural styles as a result of
reconstructions and extentions (Gothic side
chapels, tombs and iron portals)
The remains of Lisbon's official patron saint,
St Vincent, are kept here. Look for the
casket in the sacristy along with other
treasures and sacred objects
THINGS TO DO THERE
Admire the Romanesque main façade and
the towers of the church
Enter the cathedral
Walk around and enjoy the interior that is a
mix of different architectural styles
TIPS & INSIGHTS
MORE Info and Photos >
15:30-16:10
Monumento a Cristo Rei
(Alto do Pragal, 2800-058 Almada)
Opening hours: Summer, weekdays: 9:30pm - 6:30pm, Summer, weekends: 9:30pm - 7pm,
Winter: 9:30pm - 6:15pm • Admission: 4 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Christ the King monument was erected in
1959 to thank god that Portugal had
escaped involment in WWII
The Chirst figure was inspired by Rio de
Janeiro's famous Christ the Redeemer
statue. Both hold the the same open arm
position
The monument is located on the south bank
of the Tejo river, facing the city on the other
bank, to symbolize Christ opening his arms
to Lisbon
The monument is 110 m high. The 28m (92
ft) tall Christ figure stands on an 82m (270 ft)
pedestal
An elevator takes visitors up to the top of the
monument for a sweeping view of the city,
the river and April 25 Bridge
THINGS TO DO THERE
Buy a ticket and take the elevator to the top
of the statue
Admire the stunning view over Lisbon
TIPS & INSIGHTS
It can be very windy at the top
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
7
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
17:10-18:10
Rua Augusta and the Baixa streets
(Rua Augusta, 1100 Lisbon)
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Baixa is a neoclassical neighborhood in
Lisbon with grid-like streets. It was
developed after the 1755 eathquake
devastated the area
Before 1755 opulent palaces stood here.
Now simple and uniform buildings, built for
tradesmen and merchants, occupy the area
The neighborhood starts at Praça do
Comércio (Commerce Square). The square
was once the city's trade center with finance
ministries and port authorities
The Baixa's streets retain their original
names. The names match the trades of the
people that once worked here: ouro (gold),
prata (silver), sapateiros (cobblers)
The area's main street is called Rua
Augusta that connects Praça do Comércio
and Praça de Pedro IV (a.k.a. Rossio)
This is a buzzing pedestrian street with
street sellers, artists, restaurants, outdoor
cafés and shops
THINGS TO DO THERE
Explore the streets from Commerce Sqaure
to Rossio Square and watch life go by
Follow Rua Augusta all the way to Praça de
Pedro V (Rossio), or zigzag through the side
streets
Do some shopping
TIPS & INSIGHTS
You will find great restaurants all along the
street
MORE Info and Photos >
18:10-18:25
Santa Justa Elevator
(Rua de Santa Justa, Lisbon)
Opening hours: Daily: 7am - 9pm • Admission: 1,45 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Santa Justa Elevator is a 45m high,
neo-gothic iron tower with a functioning
elevator. It is one of the most beloved
landmarks of Lisbon
The tower was built between 1898 and 1901
to the plans of Porto-born architect Raul
Mesnier de Ponsard, an apprentice of
Gustave Eiffel
The purpose of the tower was to transport
people between the lower laying streets of
Baixa and the higher Carmo Square - the
city's highest and lowest points
The elevator was originally powered by a
steam engine
At the top there is a café with an excellent
view on Baixa neighborhood, Rossio
Square, and St. George's Castle
THINGS TO DO THERE
Take the elevator to the top
Enjoy the splendid views of the city: Rossio
Square, the castle and the river
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Free admission with Lisboa Card
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
8
© PromptGuides.com
Overview of Day 2
LEAVE HOTEL
Tested and recommended hotels in Lisbon >
Take Tram nr 15 from Cais de Sodre stop to Mosteiro
Jerónimos stop (Direction: Alges (Jardim))
10:00-11:00
Jerónimos Monastery
UNESCO World
Heritage Site
Take a walk to Belém Tower - 20’
11:20-12:20
Belém Tower
Iconic Lisbon attraction
Take a walk to the Monument to the Discoveries - 20’
12:40-13:00
Monument to the Discoveries
Iconic Lisbon
monument
Take a walk to Praça do Império - 10’
13:10-13:40
Praça do Império
Largest square of the
Iberian Peninsula
Lunch time
Take a walk to the Maritime Museum
15:00-16:00
Maritime Museum
One of Portugal's most
visited museums
Take a walk to the Coach Museum - 20’
16:20-17:20
Coach Museum
Magnificent selection of
coaches
END OF DAY 2
Page 10
Page 10
Page 11
Page 11
Page 12
Page 12
5-day Lisbon City Guide
10
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
10:00-11:00
Jerónimos Monastery
(Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisbon)
Opening hours: May - Sept, Tue - Sun: 10am - 6:30pm, Oct - Apr, Tue - Sun: 10am -
5:30pm, Monday: Closed, January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1 and Dec. 25: • Admission: 7 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Jeronimos Monastery is Lisbon's most
celebrated monument, a UNESCO World
Heritage site since 1983, and Vasco de
Gama's resting place
King Manuel I commissioned the building in
1502 to commemorate Vasco de Gama's
successful return from India and to thank
Virgin Mary for the success
The monastery symbolizes Portugal's power
and wealth during the Age of Discovery. It is
one of the most important examples of
Manueline (Portuguese late-Gothic)
architecture
The visual centerpiece of the exterior is the
richly decorated south portal with elaborate
carvings
Inside, along with Gama, important figures of
Portuguese history are entombed such as
kings and queens or writers Fernando
Pessoa (1888-1935) and Luis de Camões
(1524-80)
The nave's 6 columns are beautifully
decorated with characteristic Manueline
carvings of ropes and exotic flora
The cloisters showcase Manueline carvings
at their best. Each column is differently
carved with coils of rope, sea monsters,
coral, and other sea motifs evocating the
heroic Age of Discovery
THINGS TO DO THERE
Admire the beautiful Manuline architecture of
the monastery from the outside
Start your tour by walking around in the
church to see the tombs and the elaborate
decoration
Head upstairs to the choir to take in the
church from above and admire the carved
choir stalls
Walk on to see the real highlights: the
cloisters (with Manueline carvings) and the
refectory
TIPS & INSIGHTS
It is less crowded late afternoon or
off-season
Free admission with Lisboa Card
Free admission on Sundays and holidays
until 2pm
Do not miss the best pastries in town: the
café Antiga Confeitaria de Belém (near the
monastery) serves delicious custard tarts
since 1841
MORE Info and Photos >
11:20-12:20
Belém Tower
(Av. de Brasília, Belém Lisbon)
Opening hours: May - Sept, Tue - Sun: 10am - 6:30pm, Oct - Apr, Tue - Sun: 10am -
5:30pm, Monday: Closed, January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1 and Dec. 25: Closed • Admission: 5 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Belém Tower is a fortress built in 1515 by
King Manuel I to protect the city and its
harbor. The tower is a UNESCO World
Heritage Site since 1983
It is a superb example of Manueline
architecture. Elaborate carvings of motifs
typical of the style decorate the building:
ropes, exotic flowers, animal heads, and
crosses
In 1580, under Spanish control, the fortress
was turned into a prison and continued to
function as a prison after the Spanish left in
1640. Later it became a custom house
The nearby red suspension bridge is called
April 25th Bridge and connects Lisbon with
Almada. It was inaugurated in 1966
The bridge takes its name after the date of
April 25 1974 when Portugues people came
out to the street and ended Dictator
Salazar's rule in a bloodless revolution
THINGS TO DO THERE
Admire the white castellated tower from
outside
Enter the building and discover its interior
Climb the narrow steps to the top of the
tower for impressive views over the river
Tejo, the bridge April 25, and the Cristo Rei
statue
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Free admission with Lisboa Card
Free admission on Sundays and holidays
until 2pm
It is a very popular site so be prepared for a
crowd
Be cautious when climbing to the top as the
steps are very narrow
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
11
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
12:40-13:00
Monument to the Discoveries
(Av. de Brasília, 1400-038 Lisbon)
Opening hours: May - Sept daily: 10am - 7pm, Oct - Apr, Tue - Sun: 10am - 5:30pm • Admission: 2.5 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
The Discovery Monument pays homage to
those who took part in the the Golden Age of
Discovery. It was first erected in 1940 for the
Lisbon World Exhibition
In 1960, the 500th anniversary of the death
of Prince Henry the Navigator, the original
monument was pulled down and a new one
was erected in concrete
The momument takes the shape of a
caravela with its sails billowing in the wind.
Caravela is the type of ship Portuguese
explorers used in the period
In the front of the ship stands Henry the
Navigator who played a leading role in the
development of Portuguese explorations
Henry is followed by important historic
figures such as King Manuel I (holidng an
armillary sphere), poet Camões (with a
paper scroll), Vasco da Gama, Magellan,
Cabral, and other famed explorers,
cartographers, monks and crusaders
The only woman in the group depicts queen
Felipa of Lancaster, Prince Henry's mother,
the mastermind behind the discoveries
The square in front is decorated with a
mosaic (a gift of South Africa) representing a
compass. The map in the center shows the
routes Portuguese explorers followed
THINGS TO DO THERE
Admire the impressive monument
Enjoy the view of the river Tejo and bridge
April 25 in the background
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Inside there is an exhibition space with
temporary exhibits
An elevator takes visitors to the top for some
bird's-eye views of Belem and its
monuments
Discount with Lisboa Card
MORE Info and Photos >
13:10-13:40
Praça do Império
(Praça do Império, 1400 Lisbon)
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Praça do Império (Empire Square) is a large
city square in Lisbon
It was built for the 1940 Portuguese World
Exhibition
With its size of 280m by 280m, it is the
largest square of the Iberian Peninsula and
one of the largest in Europe
On the north side the magneficient 15th
century Jerónimos Monastery boarders the
area
A beautiful city garden occupies the center
of the square. The garden is 3.300 m2
(35520 ft2) large and has a sizable fountain
in the middle
The sqare commemorates the power and
greatness of the old Portuguese Empire
THINGS TO DO THERE
Relax in the beautiful garden enjoying the
view of the majestic Jerónimos Monastery
TIPS & INSIGHTS
To cross the road to reach the sea front go
through the tunnel
Do not miss the best pastries in town: the
café Antiga Confeitaria de Belém (near the
monastery) serves delicious custard tarts
since 1841
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
12
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
15:00-16:00
Maritime Museum
(Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisbon)
Opening hours: May - Sept: 10am - 6pm, Oct - Apr: 10am - 5pm • Admission: 4 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
The Lisbon Maritime Museum is dedicated
to telling the story of Portugal's leading role
in the age of discovery and the world's
maritime history
The museum is located next to the beautiful
Jeronimos Monastery, a World Heritage site
Some 17,000 items are on display including
model ships, full scale ship replicas,
maritime instruments and tools, maps and
other relating items from the 15th cenury
onward
One of the highlights is the Pavilhăo das
Galeotas, a large pavilion with full-size
replicas of royal boats, fishing vessels and
other crafts
THINGS TO DO THERE
Go to the far end of the former monastery to
enter the museum
Discover the rich collection to learn about
Portugal's momentous relationship with the
sea
Highlights include objects from the Far East,
a large pavilion with life-size models of royal
boats, fishing and other craft
TIPS & INSIGHTS
MORE Info and Photos >
16:20-17:20
Coach Museum
(Praça Afonso de Albuquerque, 1300-044 Lisbon)
Opening hours: Tuesday - Sunday: 10am - 6pm, Monday: Closed, January 1, Easter
Sunday, May 1 and Dec. 25: Closed • Admission: 5 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
The Lisbon Coach Museum is dedicated to
carriages with the largest collection of its
kind in the world
The ostentatiously decorated coaches on
display present the staggering wealth and
extravagance of Portugal's late elite
The musuem is installed in the ornate 18th
century royal horse riding arena, part of the
Belem Palace, the residence of the
president of Portugal
Queen Amélia opened the museum in 1905
to showcase the royal family's vast collection
of coaches
The museum exhibits show the development
of carriages between the 16th and 19th
century, and how coach builders tried to
outshine each other through elaborate
decoration of their masterpieces
The coaches come from all over Europe:
Italy, Portugal, France, Spain, Austria and
England
THINGS TO DO THERE
Walk around and admire the magnificent
collection of coaches made for royalty
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Free admission with Lisboa Card
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
14
© PromptGuides.com
Overview of Day 3
LEAVE HOTEL
Tested and recommended hotels in Lisbon >
Take Metro Line Blue to S.Sebastiao station
10:00-12:00
Gulbenkian Museum
Outstanding collection
from the East and the
West
Take Metro Line Blue from S.Sebastiao station to
Baixa-Chiado station
Change to Metro Line Green to Alameda station
Change to Metro Line Red to Oriente station
Lunch time
14:30-16:00
Park of the Nations
Striking contemporary
architecture
Take a walk to the Oceanarium
16:00-17:40
Oceanarium
Said to be the most
impressive aquarium in
the world
END OF DAY 3
Page 16
Page 16
Page 17
5-day Lisbon City Guide
16
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
10:00-12:00
Gulbenkian Museum
(Av. de Berna 45A, 1067-001 Lisbon)
Opening hours: Tuesday - Sunday: 10am - 5:45pm, Monday: Closed, January 1, Easter
Sunday, May 1 and Dec. 25: Closed • Admission: 4 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Gulbenkian Museum is one of the finest art
museums in the world
Calouste Gulbenkian was an armanian oil
magnate, one of the wealthiest man of the
20th century, and art collector. He amassed
the museum's masterpieces
He was born (1869) in what is now Istanbul.
In his later years he settled down in
Portugal. Prior to his death (1955)
Gulbenkian donated this collection to the
country
The museum appeals to wide tastes. Its
collection includes items from Egyptian,
Greek, Roman, Islamic, Asian, and
European art
The European section features Rembrandts,
Rubens, Monets, Van Dycks, Renoirs,
Rousseaus, Manets, and Degas
Being Gulbenkian's special interest, the
Easter Islamic collection with hand-painted
ceramics, glazed tiles, prayer niches and
mosque lamps is particularly outstanding
THINGS TO DO THERE
Discover the treasures of the museum from
collection to collection
Pay particular attention to the Eastern
Islamic art collection which is particularly
outstanding
Head to the gardens which are a lush mix of
greenery, water features, and some superb
sculptures
TIPS & INSIGHTS
The admission to the museum is free every
Sunday
Discount with Lisboa Card
MORE Info and Photos >
14:30-16:00
Park of the Nations
(Rossio dos Olivais, 1990 Lisboa)
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Park of Nations is Lisbon's ultra modern
district built for the 1998 World Exhibiton. It
is located on the waterfront at the eastern
end of the city
The 1998 Exhibition was the 100th after the
1851 London Exhibition, the last one in the
20th century, and coincided with the 500th
anniversary of Vasco da Gama's arrival in
India
Most of the park's architecture follows the
Ocean theme of the exhibition. The area has
a clean, open, and relaxed atmosphere
Oriente Station, one of Lisbon's most
stunning architecture, is a railway station,
metro and bus terminal. Its glass and steel
roof looks like a row of palm trees
Vasco de Gama Tower is Lisbon's tallest
building (145m/575ft) with a shape of a
nautical sail. The tower is undergoing work
to build a Dubai-like luxury hotel into it
Vasco de Gama Bridge is Europe's longest
bridge spanning more 17,2 km (10,75 mi)
Centro Vasco de Gama is a shopping center
providing everything a modern mall must
offer
Săo Gabriel and Săo Rafael office and
apartment buildings were named after Vasco
de Gama's ships. They are designed to look
like two giant sailboats
THINGS TO DO THERE
Arriving to Oriente Station admire the
stunning modern architecture of the station
Start your tour riding the cable car (buy a
single ticket, near Oceanarium building) that
runs the full length of the site, parallel to the
river, while giving commanding views along
the way
Admire the magnificence of the Vasco da
Gama Tower and Bridge
Take a walk along the waterfront with
pleasant gardens and lawns to sit
From the water front admire the two striking
twin towers designed to look like giant
sailboats
TIPS & INSIGHTS
To tour the area you can jump on a toy train
that passes by the main attractions every
twenty minutes
Finish your day in Vasco da Gama Shopping
Center
The park is a must for families with kids
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
17
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
16:00-17:40
Oceanarium
(Esplanada D. Carlos I - Doca dos Olivais, 1990-005 Lisbon)
Opening hours: Summer: 10am - 8pm, Winter: 10am - 7pm • Admission: 12 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
The Lisbon Oceanarium is touted as the
most impressive aquarium in the world
It displays more than 25.000 fish, seabirds
and mammals. Interactive high-tech displays
tell the story of the development of life in the
oceans
A huge central tank represents the global
ocean. Four adjacent one in the corners
recreate the Antartic, North Atlantic,
Temperate Pacific and Tropical Indian
ecosystems
The aquarium is designed in a way to
convey the message that there is only one
global ocean and all waters are connected
In reality invisible acrylic walls separate the
tanks. From outside it looks like as if all
creatures are swimming in the same space
Each habitat copies the very conditions
(temperature, lighting, flora and fauna) of the
original it recreates
Visitors can view the underwater world on
multiple levels: first from above sea level
then from below
THINGS TO DO THERE
Follow the well-marked route and enjoy the
fascinating trip through the three oceans
Take a look at or even sit down in front of
the huge and amazing central aquarium
from every side to see the sealife
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Discount with Lisboa Card
The oceanarium is a must for families with
kids
Please note that it is prohibited to take
photos with flash as it disturbes the animals
The exhibition is informative, educational
and entertaining both for children and adults
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
18
© PromptGuides.com
Overview of Day 4
LEAVE HOTEL
Tested and recommended hotels in Lisbon >
Take the Train from Rossio train station to Sintra - 40’
Change to Bus nr 434 to Pena National Palace
10:00-12:00
Pena National Palace - Sintra
One of Europe's most
stunning palaces
Take a walk to Moors’ Castle - 15’
12:15-13:45
Castle of the Moors - Sintra
Spectacular views
Lunch time
Take a walk to Quinta da Regaleira
16:00-17:30
Quinta da Regaleira - Sintra
World Heritage Site
END OF DAY 4
Page 20
Page 20
Page 21
5-day Lisbon City Guide
20
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
10:00-12:00
Pena National Palace - Sintra
(São Pedro de Penaferrim, 2710 Sintra)
Opening hours: Apr 1 - Sept 15: 9:45am - 7pm, Oct 16 - Mar 31: 10am - 6pm, January 1 and
Dec. 25: Closed • Admission: 12 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Sintra is a fairytale town 35 km (22 mi) from
Lisbon to the west. The town is home to
Pena National Palace, a UNESCO World
Heritage site
The name Sintra comes from 'Cynthia', the
Roman goddess of the moon. In Roman
time it was a place of moon worshiping. The
Moors also liked it and built a hilltop castle
Later the town became the royal family's
favorite summer retreat. Many aristorcrats
moved here and built lavish palaces and
mansions in the town
On top of the hill above Sintra stands Pena
National Palace, a fairytail-like Romanticist
palace. King Ferdinand built it in the 19th
century as a summer residence
The palace features everything a fairytale
castle needs: drawbridge, turrets, ramparts,
battlements, domes, gargoyles; all washed
in an array of pastel colors
THINGS TO DO THERE
After arriving to Sintra go to the Scotturb
Terminal (opposite the train station) and pick
up the timetables
Take the bus 434 to Palacio de Pena bus
stop (if you have to wait for the bus, use the
time to walk around in the old town)
From the bus station take a walk (15 min
uphill) or take the minitram (2 EUR) to the
Palace
Admire the Palace from outside and inside
Explore the extravagant interior: rich
ornaments, paintings, and priceless
porcelain
Other highlights include the spacious
ballroom, the marvelous "Arab Room", and
an impressive 16th-century chapel altarpiece
Enjoy the amazing view from the rooftops
and the towers
TIPS & INSIGHTS
If you already have a Lisboa card you can
use it to get to Sintra for free. Once in Sintra
the cheapest way of getting around is buying
a bus pass that offers unlimited travel on
Scotturb buses in Sintra and in Cascais. The
pass (called Bilhete do Circuito da Pena)
costs 4.8 EUR
If you don't have a Lisboa card buy a
combined day pass in Lisbon. It will give you
access to trains (from/to Lisbon) and buses
(unlimited travel on Scotturb buses in Sintra
and in Cascais). The day pass costs 12 EUR
It is not allowed to take photos inside the
palace
MORE Info and Photos >
12:15-13:45
Castle of the Moors - Sintra
(Serra de Sintra, Capuchos, 2710-609 Sintra)
Opening hours: Apr 1 - Sept 15: 9:30am - 8pm, Oct 16 - Mar 31: 10am - 6pm, January 1 and
Dec. 25: Closed • Admission: 6 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Moors' Castle is a fortress built by the Moors
between the 9th and 10th century on a high
hill overlooking Sintra. It offers sweeping
views of the surrounding area
It is part of the Sintra UNESCO World
Heritage Site
Afonso Henriques, Portugal's first king,
conquered the castle in 1147, a major
victory in the reconquest of Portugal from
the Moors
The fortress lost its military importance in the
16th century. It was abandoned and fell in
serious decay
King Ferdinand II renovated the castle in the
19th century as part of a romantic
renovation initiative. The Romanesque Saint
Peter Church was intentionally left in ruins
Inside the caslte the Moors built a large
underground water container that played a
vital role when the castle was under siege
THINGS TO DO THERE
Walk around and explore the area: the small
church, the cistern and the ruins
Head to the edge of the hill and walk along
on the pathway inside the wall for views of
the surrounding area and marvel at the
construction itself
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Discount with Lisboa Card
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
21
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
16:00-17:30
Quinta da Regaleira - Sintra
(Rua Barbosa du Bocage, 2710 - 567 Sintra )
Opening hours: Apr - Sept: 10am - 8pm, Feb, Mar, Oct: 10am - 6:30pm, Nov - Jan: 10am -
5:30pm, January 1 and Dec. 25 10am 5:30pm: Closed • Admission: 6 €
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
An eccentric millionaire, António Augusto
Carvalho Monteiro, commissioned Quinta da
Regaleira, a luxurious estate close to
Sintra's center, at the turn of the 19th
century
It is part of the 'Cultural Landscape of Sintra'
UNESCO World Heritage Site. The estate
includes a romantic palace and chapel, and
a mysterious garden
Typical of Romantic architecture, the palace
follows a mix of building styles: Gothic,
Manueline and Renaissance. Gothic
pinnacles, gargoyles and capitals decorate
the façade
A mystical garden surrounds the palace. It
features an extensive system of mysterious
caves and tunnels
The tree covered park also features many
beautiful lakes, grottoes, wells, benches,
and fountains
Top highlights are the rock embedded
Aquarium and the supernatural spiral tunnel
staircase
THINGS TO DO THERE
Start you visit in the palace
Head to the magical gardens and discover
its hidden treasures: beautiful lakes,
grottoes, wells, benches, and fountains
If you are ready for some adventure explore
the various underground walkways
Don't miss the beautiful views of Sintra and
the Castelo dos Mouros from the top of the
Regaleira Tower
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Discount with Lisboa Card
Remember to bring a small flashlight or
install one on your phone if you really want
to explore properly
After your visit to the palace do not forget to
try queijadas, the local specialty cheese
cake
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
23
© PromptGuides.com
Overview of Day 5
LEAVE HOTEL
Tested and recommended hotels in Lisbon >
Take the Train from Cais do Sodre train station to
Cascais station (Direction: Cascais) - 40’
10:00-13:00
Cascais
Cosmopolitan little
beach town
Lunch time
Take Bus nr 403 from Cascais train station to Cabo da
Roca stop (Direction: Sintra)
15:00-16:00
Cabo da Roca
Europe's westernmost
point
END OF DAY 5
Page 25
Page 25
5-day Lisbon City Guide
25
© PromptGuides.com
Attraction Details
10:00-13:00
Cascais
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Cascais is a popular resort on the shore of
the Atlantic Ocean. The town lies some 30
km (19 mi) from Lisbon to the west
It used to be a small fishing village. In the
20th century it became a popular summer
destination for the European royals and
nobility
Today it is a colorful cosmopolitan town. It is
well known for its elegant pedestrian streets,
luxuriant villas, fashionable shops,
restaurants and bars
The town retains its fishing traditions. In the
afternoon fishermen sell freshly caught fish
at the main beach
Photos, paintings and other authentic items
in the Museum of the Sea (Museu do Mar)
tell the story of the old town
The fully furnished Castro Guimarăes
Museum lends peek into the life of 18th and
19th century aristocracy
At Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell) powerful
waves of the ocean created gigantic caves
in the rock wall. The waves crash to the cliffs
with awe-inspiring sounds
THINGS TO DO THERE
Start your visit in the town center discovering
charming houses, picturesque corners
dotted with small cozy restaurants, cafés
and shops
Walk around the pathways that surround the
bay
Do not miss the fortress, the Museum of the
Sea and the fascinating Museum of Conde
Castro Guimaraes, with its small private
beach
Relax beneath the shade in the small park
next to the museum
Take a 20-minute walk along the coastal
road leading to an outstanding sight: Boca
do Inferno
TIPS & INSIGHTS
You can relax on one of the various beaches
of Cascais or Estoril
You will enjoy the visit even in the winter by
taking a walk on the sea shore
MORE Info and Photos >
15:00-16:00
Cabo da Roca
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Cabo da Roca is a cliff in Sintra-Cascais
Natural Park rising 140m (460ft) above the
Atlantic Ocean
The place is touted as Europe's most
western point. The visitor center issues
certificates to visitors proving that they have
been to the most westerly point of Europe
The 22 m high lighthouse that dominates the
cape was built in 1772. It stands on the
highest point of Cabo da Roca
Cabo da Roca was used to be called the
Rock of Lisbon
Another hightlight is a landmark cross. The
inscribed quote by 16th century Portuguese
poet Luis de Camoes calls Cabo da Roca
the place "where the land ends and the sea
begins"
THINGS TO DO THERE
Discover the surroundings, have a coffee
and take pictures
Enjoy the great views and nice sound of the
waves hitting the high cliffs
TIPS & INSIGHTS
Print the bus nr 403 timetable prior to your
visit
MORE Info and Photos >
5-day Lisbon City Guide
27
© PromptGuides.com
Photo credits
Cover page
Cover photo #1: Photo by saolin
Cover photo #2: Photo by szeke
Cover photo #3: Photo by myke
Map
http://www.bing.com/maps
Attraction details
Praça do Comércio: Photo by hamadryades • Castle of São Jorge: Photo by thelastminute •
Alfama neighbourhood: Photo by Natalia Romay • Sé Cathedral: Photo by timcowlishaw •
Monumento a Cristo Rei: Photo by Nir Nussbaum • Rua Augusta and the Baixa streets: Photo
by das21 • Santa Justa Elevator: Photo by Jorbasa • Jerónimos Monastery: Photo by brilliam
• Belém Tower: Photo by wjhall31 • Monument to the Discoveries: Photo by B G •
Praça do Império: Photo by Charalampos Konstantinidis • Maritime Museum: Photo by Dmitry
Shakin • Coach Museum: Photo by CB Photography • Gulbenkian Museum: Photo by xpgomes
• Park of the Nations: Photo by Hellen Stevens • Oceanarium: Photo by Axel Bührmann •
Pena National Palace - Sintra: Photo by zkvrev • Castle of the Moors - Sintra: Photo by To
Uncertainty And Beyond • Quinta da Regaleira - Sintra: Photo by Pirkka Aunola • Cascais:
Photo by myke • Cabo da Roca: Photo by Toni Kaarttinen
