Lisbon's hodgepodge of historical periods and cultures is a major source of its charm and travel appeal. A sprawling city on the banks of the Tagus River, Lisbon constantly reminds travelers that Portugal has been conquered several times, that it developed (and lost) its own illustrious empire and that, for much of the 20th century, it isolated itself from the rest of the world.
But when Portugal joined the European Union in 1986, it experienced a major economic boost. A completely new quarter sprang up on the banks of the Tagus. Lisbon is modernizing fast as a European travel destination.
As visitors to Portugal walk Lisbon's hills—or, better, take one of Lisbon's vintage trams—they'll find restored medieval facades, wonderful art-nouveau buildings, black-and-white mosaic sidewalks (known as calcada), fine museums and plenty of modern shops.
Lisbon's citizens seem to have absorbed their city's many-sided character. Visitors can witness the popularity of fado, the melancholy music that developed in Lisbon in the early 19th century. Though the performers sing about tragedy and distant glory, the audience is very much a part of modern Lisbon—a flourishing, fashionable business and leisure center.
Location
Cruise ships dock at the commercial port (Doca da Alcatara), a 15-minute drive from the city center. The terminal has a small gift shop, restaurant and duty-free shop. http://www.portodelisboa.com.
Most ships offer a shuttle, ferry or bus service to Praco do Comercio, centrally located at the foot of Rua da Prata, the pedestrian thoroughfare. Most of the main tourist attractions are within walking distance of downtown. Taxis are readily available. There's an excellent bus and tram service—unlimited daily passes cost 3.50 euros. The train station also offers regular and convenient service to out-of-town destinations such as Sintra and Fatima.
Shore Excursions
Consider signing up for the excursions offered by your ship. They may not be the least expensive way to see Lisbon, but you won't have to waste your limited time making arrangements yourself—and you won't have to worry about missing the ship. Shore excursions—and their prices—vary from cruise line to cruise line. Some may include lunch and drinks, and the number of stops may vary. Half-day excursions usually consist of bus tours to the major city sites including stops at the tree-lined Avenida da Liberdade, Praca do Commercio, the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, the Campo de Ourique Market and the National Coach Museum. Other tours visit the chic and scenic Estoril coast and the resort of Sintra. Day trips to Fatima and Batalha, known as the "Lourdes of Portugal," are other popular options.
