Day tours in Lisbon & surroundings
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Program
Cross the central Marques de Pombal square and go down by the XVIII century boulevard called Liberdade
avenue to the popular Restauradores and Rossio squares; it's the heart of Lisbon since Roman times, and the
Pombaline downtown which has been the shopping area for more than 2000 years.
The majestic waterfront Comercio square, facing the extraordinary estuary of the river, once the welcome gate to
seafarer and caravels. Close by is the nucleus of ancient Lisbon. Visit the oldest quarter, Alfama, with the
structure of the medieval city, with labyrinthine narrow streets, steep stairways and alleys, tiny squares. If
possible, we'll stop in a handicraft shop for a taste of Port wine.
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The tour continues along the riverside by the harbour with sights of one of world's leading cruise destinations.
Cross the 25 Abril bridge for a superb panorama.
Returning to Lisbon we cross again the bridge and go to Belem, the most monumental and historical quarter, we pass by Belem palace, official residence of
the President of Portugal. Stops at Belem Tower – icon of the Age of Discovery (stop for photos, drinks and toilettes), the Monument to the Discoveries –
evoking the maritime expansion. Close by is Jeronimos Monastery, magnificent example of the Manueline style, the most impressive symbol of Portugal's
power and wealth during the Age of Discovery - stop to see the church (closed on Mondays, replaced by Ajuda palace).
Visit the Coach Museum, housing the best carriages’ collection in the world (closed on Mondays, replaced by Ajuda palace).
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...Lisbon’s history dates back to 300,000 years ago and ranks as one of the world's longest founded cities. As the
legend tells, it is a city founded and named by Ulysses, which has its origins in the Phoenician words "Allis Ubbo",
meaning "enchanting port". Lisbon was a battlefield for Phoenicians, Greeks and Carthaginians, however it was
Romans who started their two-century reign in Lisbon in 205 BC. In 714, the Moors arrived and stayed till the 12th
century. In the 13th century, Lisbon became the capital of Portugal. The 15th century was the point of departure for the
Portuguese Discoveries, an era during which Portugal enjoyed abundant wealth and prosperity through its newly
discovered off shore colonies in Africa, the Americas and Asia. Today, Lisbon still maintaining the marks of its early
history, is one of the most beautiful capitals of Europe...
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