Lisbon’s sightseeing highlights can be divided into two main areas:
1. The Old Town – Including landmarks such as Commerce Square, Baixa District, Rossio Square, São Jorge Castle, and Alfama District. The Old Town retains its charm from over 200 years ago.
2. The Belém Area – Located about 6 kilometers west of the Old Town, featuring attractions like Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, Empire Square, and the Jerónimos Monastery. This area reflects the grandeur of the Age of Exploration.
1. The Old Town
Rossio Square
Take Bus 1 from the airport directly to Rossio Square. The fare is €3.50 per person. On the square’s north side stands the D. Maria II National Theatre.
• History & Significance:
Initially called Pedro IV Square, Rossio Square earned its current name from local residents. Built in the 13th century, it was damaged in the great earthquake but has largely retained its appearance. Its elegant buildings and fountains tell captivating historical tales.
• Features:
Rossio Square is Lisbon’s central hub. The metro station “Rossio” and most buses and trams pass through, making it a daily thoroughfare for locals.
Its design was inspired by Paris’s Place de la Concorde, featuring traditional Portuguese mosaic paving, giving the area a unique charm.
At the square’s center stands a statue of King Pedro IV. At its base, four female statues symbolize justice, wisdom, strength, and moderation, qualities the king attributed to himself.
Baixa District
Located between Rossio Square and Commerce Square, the Baixa District is lively and bustling. It’s a must-visit area for tourists, filled with shops, restaurants, cafés, street performers, and travelers. The district’s main streets lead directly to Commerce Square.
Bairro Alto (The Old Quarter)
Bairro Alto, situated on the highlands west of Rossio Square, is a quintessential old district. Visitors can reach it via cable car or on foot. From Rossio Square, a short walk through tiered streets leads to this charming area.
• Atmosphere:
Winding streets and houses with laundry hanging from windows create iconic Lisbon scenery often featured in photos, paintings, and souvenirs.
São Jorge Castle
Perched on a hill east of Rossio Square, São Jorge Castle dates back to the mid-11th century, built during Moorish rule. It’s one of Lisbon’s oldest structures, featuring 11 well-preserved towers. The castle’s hilltop location also offers incredible panoramic views of the city.
• Entry Fee: Adults €8.50, seniors (65+) €5.
Santa Maria Cathedral & Alfama District
From São Jorge Castle, a short walk downhill leads to Santa Maria Cathedral, also known as the Church of Santa Maria.
• Highlights:
Built in the 12th century, the cathedral is large but simple, exuding a sense of antiquity. Viewing it from Bairro Alto’s lookout point the previous evening reveals its grandeur.
The Alfama District is one of Lisbon’s most traditional neighborhoods, alongside Bairro Alto. Here, narrow streets wind through whitewashed houses with red-tiled roofs, traditional buildings adorned with hanging laundry, and lively shops. Trams clatter through the area, mingling with rickshaws. Despite its age, Alfama is vibrant and bustling, retaining its charm without appearing worn.
City Hall
Lisbon City Hall is located west of Commerce Square. The building is modest in size, and visitors can access the main hall. However, the entire venue is open to the public only on the first Sunday of each month. Unfortunately, we couldn’t explore it during our visit.
Stay tuned for Part 2, featuring the highlights of the Belém area!