It is almost as far as you can go southwest and still be in Europe - without dropping off the edge, into the Atlantic Ocean. At the very periphery of Europe, Lisbon is often strangely overlooked by aficionados who pontificate on the virtues of the best European cities. True, it does not have the iconic landmarks; many dismiss its cuisine and wine as lower tier; and, largely as a consequence, it is not perceived as having the pizzazz of Paris, Rome or Berlin.
Well, all I say to that is, oh happy days! I first came to Lisbon in 1975 and have been getting back whenever I could ever since. Of all the joys of this amazing town, one of the most pleasant is the remarkable dearth of tourists. Though, I'll concede, having the almost perfect climate ain't too shabby, either.
It has among the lowest crime rates of any of the best European cities. Plus, it is a true boon for the inveterate stroller, despite all the winding hills, with their sudden, stunning vistas that smack you rounding all kinds of bends.
The food may not be as famous as Greek, Italian or French, but it is delicious. And if you love sea food you'll be in heaven. And don't underestimate the wine. For some reason the standard exported fare isn't so great. The wine in Portugal, though, is a delight. The coffee is fantastic, too. Lisbon should be famous for its cafes!
Lisbon provides all that classic European cultural stuff we've come to expect: it has cathedrals, museums, galleries, regal town squares and impressive architecture. And, if you get a hankering for the beach, which other great European city offers anything like the Costa da Caparica? Just a short trip south of town brings you to its 19 ruggedly beautiful, sandy beaches. There is easy access to them all, along a cute little railway that travels their length, dropping you off at which ever beach you'd like. (Try that in Paris.)
Lisbon is a terrific place to tour. I'd especially recommend it, though, as a real gem as a place for an extended stay. Whether you're enjoying a professional sabbatical, an extended vacation that allows you to settle into the rhythms of a place, living the ex-pat life, or are looking for the perfect spot to hole-up while writing your great novel, when you need an inspirational respite, I'd say go to Lisbon.
And you can't beat it for price. Compared to the rest of Europe, Lisbon is a real deal. Certainly it is more expensive than it was back in the 1970s, but in equivalent dollars less than you might think.
Should you have the wisdom to take my advice and consider an extended sojourn in Lisbon it will be helpful to be familiar with the neighborhoods. You do after all want to choose the one that will provide you the best experience, in tune with your own personal needs and moods. Below, check out some of my favorite ones.
The best place to start is my personal favorite, Alfama. It is the geographic and architectural legacy of the original fishing village from which Lisbon grew. That village sensibility remains and is felt everywhere in the neighborhood, amid its charming, winding medieval streets, with the castle constantly looming behind and the grand vistas over the deep blue sea. The housing stock shows the wear of time, no doubt. There are though increasing numbers of lovely renovations becoming available, and nowhere in town will you get a better deal on them than in Alfama.
If you're a partier and or a general purpose bohemian, Bairro Alto is likely the spot for you. It's packed full of characters with character, loads of popular restaurants, wine bars, dance clubs and all manner of night life. It's an exciting place to be and an exciting place to live, if it's your speed. If though you need quiet to sleep, it may not be the right choice. If you like the vibe of the place, though, you might try the Bica and Santa Catarina neighborhoods down the hill a ways: the same feel, but less hectic.
Further north, but still conveniently located, is Principe Real. Not that long ago, this area was renown pretty much exclusively for being the gay and antiques neighborhood. No longer, though: it has rapidly transformed into a hip locale for young professionals. Be forewarned, the rental prices are on the higher side. For those who enjoy it, though, this is a tranquil location, full of lush gardens and charming mansions.
Also recommended for those who don't mind paying a little more in rent for a little peace and charm is the lovely Santos district. Its riverside location provides it with oodles of cache. The artsy types might also like to know that Santos has become a bit of a design hub in Lisbon. It is though a relatively discreet notoriety and won't intrude much upon your enjoyment of this quaint residential area with its high quality housing.
So, whatever your preferences, the wild or the sedate, there are some options to suit your taste. Rest assured, whatever your preference, Lisbon has it. So, if you have the chance, don't miss your chance to experience what remains among the most affordable treasures among the best European cities.
Well, all I say to that is, oh happy days! I first came to Lisbon in 1975 and have been getting back whenever I could ever since. Of all the joys of this amazing town, one of the most pleasant is the remarkable dearth of tourists. Though, I'll concede, having the almost perfect climate ain't too shabby, either.
It has among the lowest crime rates of any of the best European cities. Plus, it is a true boon for the inveterate stroller, despite all the winding hills, with their sudden, stunning vistas that smack you rounding all kinds of bends.
The food may not be as famous as Greek, Italian or French, but it is delicious. And if you love sea food you'll be in heaven. And don't underestimate the wine. For some reason the standard exported fare isn't so great. The wine in Portugal, though, is a delight. The coffee is fantastic, too. Lisbon should be famous for its cafes!
Lisbon provides all that classic European cultural stuff we've come to expect: it has cathedrals, museums, galleries, regal town squares and impressive architecture. And, if you get a hankering for the beach, which other great European city offers anything like the Costa da Caparica? Just a short trip south of town brings you to its 19 ruggedly beautiful, sandy beaches. There is easy access to them all, along a cute little railway that travels their length, dropping you off at which ever beach you'd like. (Try that in Paris.)
Lisbon is a terrific place to tour. I'd especially recommend it, though, as a real gem as a place for an extended stay. Whether you're enjoying a professional sabbatical, an extended vacation that allows you to settle into the rhythms of a place, living the ex-pat life, or are looking for the perfect spot to hole-up while writing your great novel, when you need an inspirational respite, I'd say go to Lisbon.
And you can't beat it for price. Compared to the rest of Europe, Lisbon is a real deal. Certainly it is more expensive than it was back in the 1970s, but in equivalent dollars less than you might think.
Should you have the wisdom to take my advice and consider an extended sojourn in Lisbon it will be helpful to be familiar with the neighborhoods. You do after all want to choose the one that will provide you the best experience, in tune with your own personal needs and moods. Below, check out some of my favorite ones.
The best place to start is my personal favorite, Alfama. It is the geographic and architectural legacy of the original fishing village from which Lisbon grew. That village sensibility remains and is felt everywhere in the neighborhood, amid its charming, winding medieval streets, with the castle constantly looming behind and the grand vistas over the deep blue sea. The housing stock shows the wear of time, no doubt. There are though increasing numbers of lovely renovations becoming available, and nowhere in town will you get a better deal on them than in Alfama.
If you're a partier and or a general purpose bohemian, Bairro Alto is likely the spot for you. It's packed full of characters with character, loads of popular restaurants, wine bars, dance clubs and all manner of night life. It's an exciting place to be and an exciting place to live, if it's your speed. If though you need quiet to sleep, it may not be the right choice. If you like the vibe of the place, though, you might try the Bica and Santa Catarina neighborhoods down the hill a ways: the same feel, but less hectic.
Further north, but still conveniently located, is Principe Real. Not that long ago, this area was renown pretty much exclusively for being the gay and antiques neighborhood. No longer, though: it has rapidly transformed into a hip locale for young professionals. Be forewarned, the rental prices are on the higher side. For those who enjoy it, though, this is a tranquil location, full of lush gardens and charming mansions.
Also recommended for those who don't mind paying a little more in rent for a little peace and charm is the lovely Santos district. Its riverside location provides it with oodles of cache. The artsy types might also like to know that Santos has become a bit of a design hub in Lisbon. It is though a relatively discreet notoriety and won't intrude much upon your enjoyment of this quaint residential area with its high quality housing.
So, whatever your preferences, the wild or the sedate, there are some options to suit your taste. Rest assured, whatever your preference, Lisbon has it. So, if you have the chance, don't miss your chance to experience what remains among the most affordable treasures among the best European cities.
About the Author:
For all the best news and hottest tips on the urban hit list of Europe, follow us at the Best European Cities blog. Check out Mitchell Jones insightful piece on the top cities to visit in Eastern Europe .
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