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Lisbon - the hippest place of the moment

Lisbon is perhaps best described as a wonderfully picturesque city made up of many small charms rather than major landmarks in the style of Paris or Rome (in part because of the massive 18th century earthquake which destroyed most of what was then considered by many to be Europe's grandest city).

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Lisbon boutique hotels, apartments and B&Bs

The Portuguese capital Lisbon is settled on seven hills next to the impressing river Tagus near the Atlantic Ocean. Known as a city of seamen, explorers and adventurers the historical charm that Lisbon offers you, is combined nowadays with modernity, making the city out stand as one of Europe’s cultural capitals. As a local company we had the opportunity to select the best and most extraordinary hotels and holiday accommodations for you, directly on-site! You can start your holidays in Portugal from an exclusive manor house or from one of the luxury hotels that we have selected for you. Another option is to choose one of the charming boutique hotels in Lisbon or a bed and breakfast of our selection. If you are travelling with friends you can also enjoy your stay in your own holiday apartment in the Alfama or Bairro Alto. We'll help you find that perfect getaway in Portugal's picturesque capital.

Lisbon - what do see

Lisbon still boasts the 16th Century Jerónimos Monastery (a must see), the Torre de Belém (again a must see), the Monument to the Discoveries, which has great views from the top, the tropical Garden Museum, Naval and Coach Museums, the Belém Cultural Centre, which holds the Berardo Collection of Modern Art and even the Gulbenkian Planetarium. All these places are located in Lisbon's elegant Belém district.
Whilst there and if you want to put on a bit of weight, then we heartily recommend a trip to the “Pastel de Nata” bakery. It is impossible to have just one of their delicious custard tarts, the recipe of which remains a secret even to this day. (Allegedly, only 3 living persons at a time are thought to hold the recipe).
Other great neighborhoods include Alfama, the oldest area of Lisbon, going from the walls of the Castelo São Jorge down to the Tagus River.
High above the city centre to the west of the Baixa is the so called Bairro Alto. This is the natural place to wind up at night though it is also well worth a morning or afternoon stroll to explore.
Downtown Lisbon, or the "Baixa" is actually Europe's first example of Neoclassical design and urban planning. The lower town is very much the heart of the city and main shopping area.
The Parque das Nações, the former EXPO area, is still worth a visit.
Also don't miss the famous Flea Market, Feira da Ladra, which fills the Campo de Santa Clara, at the eastern edge of Alfama on Tuesdays and Saturdays (07:00 -18:00).
Outside Lisbon there is also a lot more to see:
Sintra, a world heritage site, has all the charm of a fairy tale town and was once described by Lord Byron as "the glorious Eden". Sintra has beautiful palaces old residences to visit, particularly the Palácio da Pena, Castelo dos Mouros, Convento dos Capuchos, Palácio da Vila and luxuriant gardens of Monserrate.
Estoril and Cascais can be reached within 30 minutes from the city. Estoril was once known as the Portuguese Rivieira with grandiose villas and luxury hotels whereas Cascais was an old fishing village with pretty houses by the sea, is now a major resort. They are connected by a beautiful promenade along the coast.
Praia do Guincho is a beautiful beach and a superb spot for surfing and windsurfing. Located just outside Cascais, a car is required to get there.

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