DRMumbai: The sunny capital of Portugal, Lisbon, disguises itself as a quaint coastal town during the day which, by night, turns into a cosmopolitan city with mega clubs lined along the waterfront from Santos to Santa Apolónia.
Laid-back and relaxed, Lisbon is a dream come true for those who wish for a quiet time by the beach or a slow walking tour along cobbled alleyways and ancient ruins. A mild climate with over 3000 hours of sunshine a year, fabulous beaches, and the trademark seven hills that surround Lisbon allow for myriad spots from where one could capture a scenic view of the city.
One of the world’s oldest cities, Lisbon predates the likes of London, Rome and Paris by hundreds of years. Home to a culture that has brought about much archaeological advancement, the must-see historical sites of Lisbon are the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém tower, both classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Rebuilt after the devastating 1755 earthquake, the Lisbon Baixa attracts the most visitors because of its connection with history, and the urban delights. Considered as downtown Lisbon, it was a historical square designed in a fascinating earthquake-resistant neoclassical fashion. Now lined with cafes that are perfect for quiet evening meals, Baixa is open late into the night, which is when the party-goers flock into the plazas and avenues for a night on the town.
From the winding streets, centuries-old houses and traditional shops, Lisbon is surrounded by nostalgia for its past, but the people have learnt to not dwell on it. In fact, sunny Lisbon warmly invites you to learn the art of leisure from the city and its people, to follow the relaxed cafe culture, to unwind and live life to the fullest.
