CITY GUIDE LISBON News & Useful info

INFORMATION

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT LISBON

Lisbona Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

TONGUE

Portuguese is the official language of Portugal and is also spoken in other regions of the world, including Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, and other former Portuguese colonies. Interestingly, Portuguese is the third most spoken European language in the world, after English and Spanish.

CLIMATE

Lisbon enjoys pleasant weather most of the year. Winters are mild, meaning temperatures rarely drop below 15 degrees. Summers are hot, but thanks to the proximity of the sea, temperatures are generally moderate and mitigated by the sea breeze. Spring and autumn days are often sunny and characterized by mild temperatures, making these times of year ideal for sightseeing. Thanks to this pleasant climate, Lisbon offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy its outdoor attractions and stroll through its charming streets throughout the year.

COIN

The official currency of Portugal is the euro (€). Portugal is a member of the European Union and adopted the euro as its currency in 2002, replacing the Portuguese escudo.

BANKS

They are open from Monday to Friday from 8.30 am to 3 pm.

PHARMACIES

Pharmacies are open on weekdays from 09:00h to 19:00h and on Saturdays from 09:00h to 13:00h. All pharmacies, when they are closed, post the data of the nearest pharmacy on duty, which is in service 24 hours a day.

FIRST AID

The emergency room of hospitals should only be used in cases of serious and emergency situations. To access the health service in Portugal, non-resident citizens of the European Union must have a passport or other valid identification document with them. In addition, it is advisable to have the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you. The EHIC is a free card that guarantees the right to public health care in the Member States of the European Union, including coverage of medical expenses necessary during the temporary stay. The card is the back of the National Health Card -TS or the Regional Service Card. Importantly, the EHIC only covers primary health care and does not cover non-urgent or non-essential medical expenses. In case of non-urgent illness or for specialized medical treatment, it is advisable to contact a local health facility or a private clinic for information on the services offered and how to pay.

EMBASSIES

Open Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Embassy opening hours may vary, so it is advisable to contact the embassy directly for specific information or to make an appointment.

Embassy of Italy in Lisbon

Address: Largo Conde Pombeiro 6 - 1150-100 Lisbon

Phone: (00351) 213 515 320.

Email: ambasciata.lisbona@esteri.it

Website: https://amblisbona.esteri.it/ambasciata_lisbona/it

TOURIST BOARD

Website: www.visitlisboa.com

TRANSPORT INFORMATION IN LISBON

LISBON'S TRAMS

Lisbon's trams are an iconic and fascinating part of the city's public transport system. Known as "elétricos" in Portuguese, trams are one of the main tourist attractions and offer a picturesque way to explore Lisbon.

Historic trams: Lisbon is famous for its historic trams, especially the famous Tram 28. This yellow tram is a true symbol of the city and offers a fascinating journey through the historic districts, such as Alfama and Graça. The historic trams are a unique experience, with their wooden stained glass windows and a retro atmosphere.

The Tram Network: Lisbon has a well-developed tram network that covers different areas of the city. In addition to Tram 28, there are other tram lines, such as Tram 15 which connects the Baixa (city centre) with the Belém district.

Scenic routes: Trams offer scenic routes through Lisbon's narrow, winding streets, allowing passengers to take in the traditional architecture, picturesque squares, and panoramic views of the city.

Boarding a tram in Lisbon offers an authentic experience and a blast from the past. It is a pleasant way to soak up the atmosphere of the city and discover its most authentic neighborhoods.

THE 28E TRAM

The 28E tram is one of the most popular modes of transportation in Lisbon and offers a unique experience for exploring the city. It follows a scenic route through the narrow and winding streets of Lisbon and you can start the route from any stop and buy tickets directly on board or at authorized resellers. Tram 28E is a historic tram, characterized by yellow bodywork and retro design. Many of the trams in use today date back to the 1930s and 1940s, thus maintaining a nostalgic charm.

The Lisbon Tram 28E Route

It starts in the heart of the historic center, at Largo Martim Moniz, and continues towards the Graça district, passing through the Igreja de São Vicente de Fora. Then, pass through the charming Alfama district, passing through the medieval streets and squares of Lisbon, such as the Rua das Escolas Gerais and the Largo das Portas do Sol, a viewpoint from which you can admire the views over the rooftops of Alfama and the Tagus River. From here, the tram continues quickly towards the Castelo de São Jorge. At this point, the tram begins to descend towards the Baixa, the city center, passing in front of the Sé, the cathedral with its austere Romanesque façade, and the Igreja de Santo António. Next, cross the lively Rua da Conceição, a street full of shops. From the Baixa, the tram climbs up the elegant Chiado hill and stops in front of the famous A Brasileira pastry shop. After passing the Largo do Camões, at the entrance to the Bairro Alto district, where the tram continues to the Assembleia da República building (Parliament), located in the old Convent of São Bento, with a majestic staircase.

It then continues in front of the Basílica da Estrela and the Jardim da Estrela, a beautiful park, and continues its route through the Campo de Ourique residential district to finally reach the Largo dos Prazeres.

The Tram 28E with the Cathedral Sè. Photo: Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

Video Turismo de Lisboa Visitors & Convention Bureau.

Elevador de Santa Justa Photo: Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

LISBON'S FUNICULARS

The city is famous for its distinctive funiculars, called "elevadores" in Portuguese, which offer a unique and picturesque way to move between different parts of the city. The main funiculars in Lisbon are:

Elevador da Glória: Located in the Bairro Alto neighborhood, this funicular connects the Plaza dos Restauradores to the top of the hill in the Bairro Alto neighborhood. It is one of the most famous and iconic funiculars in Lisbon and offers panoramic views of the city on the way up.

Elevador da Bica: It is located in the Bica district, famous for its steep and picturesque streets. It connects the Rua de São Paulo to the Miradouro de Santa Catarina, offering spectacular views of the city and the Tejo River.

Elevador do Lavra: This is the oldest funicular railway in Lisbon, built in 1884. It connects the area of the Rua das Portas de Santo Antão to the Jardim do Torel, on the hill of Santo António. It is less known than the other funiculars, but it offers an interesting perspective on the city.

Elevador de Santa Justa: despite its name , it is actually a vertical iron elevator located in the center of Lisbon, near the Chiado district and offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city from its observation platform.

Lisbon's funiculars are both means of transport and tourist attractions. In addition to facilitating travel between different parts of the city, they also offer a unique and evocative experience thanks to their features and the panoramic views they offer.

THE LISBON METRO

The Lisbon Metro operates every day, including weekends, from 6:30 am to 1:00 am (departure time of the last train from the terminal stations of each line). Children under 3 years old can accompany paying passengers free of charge. Children aged 4 to 12 are entitled to travel free of charge on the Metro if they hold a Lisboa viva card "Child" (card with the letter "C").

There are two types of metro tickets: 1) Occasional tickets for non-frequent users; 2) Travel passes for regular users of the Metro.

There are 4 metro lines (Red, Green, Yellow and Blue). Download the metro map.

Foto: Copyright © Rete metropolitana di Lisbona.

LISBON'S TRAIN STATIONS

Stazione Rossio di Lisbona. Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

The main train stations ( in Portuguese Estação) in Lisbon are:

Estação do Oriente: Located in the Parque das Nações neighborhood, this modern station is one of the main hubs of Lisbon's rail system. It offers high-speed connections to various destinations in Portugal, as well as international connections.

Estação do Rossio: Located in the center of Lisbon, it is one of the oldest and most iconic train stations in the city. It offers regional and intercity services.

Estação de Santa Apolónia: Located near the Tagus River, it is the main train station for international trains connecting Lisbon to other European capitals such as Madrid and Paris. In addition to international trains, it also offers regional and intercity services.

Estação de Entrecampos: Located in the Entrecampos district, this station is a major rail transport hub offering regional and intercity connections.

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Means of transport with the Libona Card

Tiqets is an online booking platform for travelers from all over the world that offers a rich cultural variety through museums and tourist attractions. By purchasing the Lisbon card you can access 38 attractions (museums or monuments) in the city for free, including the Torre de Belém and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, the Santa Justa elevator; enjoy unlimited free travel by bus, metro, tram (including Tram 28) and lifts as well as receive discounts in various clubs, restaurants and shopping centres.

SHOPPING IN LISBON

The Baixa Pombalina is the epicenter of shopping. Here, historic shops with over three centuries offer a unique experience. Even the names of the streets recall the ancient commercial activities that were practiced there. Rua dos Bacalhoeiros, Rua dos Fanqueiros, Rua do Ouro, Rua da Prata, Rua dos Correeiros are just a few examples of the original toponymy. Here you can find traditional gifts for the whole family. A little further up in Chiado, fashion and art come together in an elegant area. Among art galleries and trendy shops, you will find the ateliers of the best Portuguese designers. Continuing to climb, you will arrive at Príncipe Real, Lisbon's new shopping area. Here you will find innovative small brands, craft projects and gourmet delights.

Rue Augusta di Lisbona. Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

Finally, for a luxury shopping experience and to find the best international brands, head to Avenida da Liberdade. Here, more than 2.5 km of elegance awaits you in the shade of acacias and palm trees. Shopping in Lisbon is not only a matter of shopping, but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and lifestyle of the city, discovering its history, art and fashion. Whether you're looking for traditional souvenirs, designer clothing, or luxury jewelry, Lisbon offers a wide range of options to suit all tastes.

SHOPPING MALLS IN LISBON

Centro commerciale vasco de Gama a Lisbona. Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

Lisbon offers a variety of shopping malls that cater to different shopping and entertainment needs. Here are some of the main shopping malls in Lisbon:

COLOMBO CENTER

Located in the Benfica area, Centro Colombo is one of the largest shopping malls in Europe. It has over 400 stores, including international and local brands, as well as a wide choice of restaurants, cinemas and a large supermarket.

AMOREIRAS SHOPPING CENTER

Located in the Amoreiras district, this shopping center is famous for its impressive tower and offers a selection of fashion, accessories, electronics, groceries and much more. It also has restaurants, cafes and a supermarket.

VASCO DE GAMA

Located in the Parque das Nações neighborhood, Vasco da Gama is a modern shopping center that offers a wide range of clothing, electronics, home, sports, and more stores. It also has a large supermarket, restaurants, cinemas and a rooftop terrace.

ATRIUM SALDANHA

Located in the heart of Lisbon, near Saldanha Square, Atrium Saldanha is a smaller but stylish shopping mall with a selection of fashion, cosmetics, accessories, and restaurant stores.

LISBON SOUVENIRS

In Lisbon, there are many unique and traditional souvenirs that you can buy to remember your visit such as:

Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Depositphotos

Azulejos

They are decorative tiles typical of Portugal.

You can find small azulejos with traditional designs or reproductions

of famous monuments in Lisbon.

Local handicrafts

You can discover handicrafts such as ceramics, textiles, bags,

jewelry and art objects made by local artists. Craft markets such as the Mercado Crafts & Design Market or the LX Factory are great places to find unique pieces.

The Rooster of Barcelos

It is a traditional icon of Portugal, made of ceramic or metal, depicting a rooster with bright colors. According to historical tradition, it is a symbol of luck and protection.

The Yellow Tram

Lisbon's distinctive yellow trams are an icon of the city. You can find souvenirs such as magnets, mugs, or T-shirts with pictures of trams to remember your visit.

Pasteis de Nata

They are the famous Portuguese desserts made with puff pastry and egg cream: a specialty of Lisbon. You can buy a box of pasteis de nata to take home as a sweet souvenir.

Sardines

Lisbon's canned sardines are a tasty souvenir to take home. The decorative boxes contain fresh sardines preserved in olive oil, packed with colorful images and traditional designs.

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Events

TicketOne.it is the reference point for the purchase of tickets for concerts, theatrical performances, sporting and cultural events throughout Italy. Over 15,000 events are available every year to choose from and a product catalog updated daily to spend quality free time.

EVENTS IN LISBON

Lisbon is a city that offers a rich program of annual events, able to satisfy all tastes and passions: from art to culture, from sport to fashion, from concerts to thematic festivals.

During the summer (from June to the end of August) the liveliest time of the year takes place and the renowned Festas de Lisboa take place, folkloristic celebrations (popular festivals that combine history, art and cultural heritage, in honor of patron saints, in particular St. Anthony) much loved by both Portuguese and tourists.

In June in Lisbon there are shows, parades and concerts in every district (especially Alfama, Bica, Bairro Alto, Castelo and Mouraria, del Chiado and Príncipe Real, Alcantara, Intendente and Docas). Don't miss the street food and music late into the night.

In addition to the annual events, there are various temporary initiatives that always animate the city. For detailed information, confirmations of dates and events visit the website of the Tourist Board: www.visitlisboa.com

Gity Guide Lisbon