Trips to Estremadura

Located on the southwest Atlantic coast and spread along the mouth of the Tagus River, the city offers endless possibilities both day and night. The city's districts are perfect for exploring on your own. The central area consists of three distinct parts. In the middle is Lisbon's "downtown," known as Baixa, situated in a 19th-century area around Rossio and east of Praça do Comércio. Baixa was established following the devastating earthquake of 1755, which destroyed much of Lisbon's historic center.

To the east lies Alfama, with its winding, steep, and labyrinthine streets below Castelo de São Jorge. Alfama is the oldest district that survived the earthquake and has managed to preserve its fascinating old quarters, with buildings that sometimes seem to be held upright by the many clotheslines. Among the cobbled streets are numerous shops, bars, taverns, and outdoor restaurants. In Alfama, life is free from anything more strenuous than board games under the shade of the trees.

West of Baixa, on another hill, is the district of Bairro Alto. This charming area is filled with small shops and casual dining spots. Here, you can find the traditional Fado music, performed in many bars and restaurants. The modern business district, Chiado, is also located in Bairro Alto.

To the west of Lisbon is Belém, the district from which sailors set sail in the 15th and 16th centuries towards lands that were previously only mythological. Vasco da Gama returned to Belém after his historic voyage to India and is buried here. Today, the district is a green suburb that hosts many reminders of the Age of Discovery. The Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Discoveries Monument, along with numerous restaurants, bars, and discos, make this former port area a hub of exploration both day and night.

Lisbon is Europe's only capital on the Atlantic Ocean, contributing to the city's specialization in seafood. The climate is pleasant year-round, and the usually hot summer days found in other large European cities are more enjoyable in Lisbon when the Atlantic breeze whispers, "come and visit me."