How to spend top weekend in Lisbon - ideas on extraordinary attractions and sites

Lisbon offers many attractive non-touristy places, a visit to which will help to understand the culture of local people better and make any vacation much more original. Want to plunge into the true culture of Portugal? The best way is to explore some old-fashioned Lisbon markets. One of the most famous markets is Mercado de Alvalade Norte. Tourists are very rare guests here, it is at this market that locals prefer to buy farm vegetables and fresh seafood. Gourmets must try such a popular national delicacy as dried cod, as well as enjoy fresh pastries from local bakeries.

On Saturday morning, head to Mercado de Feira da Ladra (Flea Market), which has been operating since the 13th century. The main flea market is located near the National Pantheon. Strolling through its rows, one can find many interesting antiques. Here you can buy old jewelry, interesting old books and works of art that can become a worthy alternative to traditional souvenirs.

Like movies? Then be sure to check out the unique historic Cinema Sao Jorge . It was considered the largest in town when it was opened in 1950. Today, the historic cinema with a 1,800-seat hall is a permanent venue for the most interesting festivals and thematic events dedicated to cinema. Cinema Sao Jorge has one more interesting feature: when the movie ends, all visitors can take a retro taxi parked next to the entrance. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Tired of classic theaters? Then you are welcome to the Carmo Convent (Convento do Carmo ), one of the most important historical sights of Lisbon. Many tourists know it as an ordinary attraction, which can be visited as part of a regular tour. However, few people know about enchanting performances and open-air concerts that are regularly held in the ancient convent. Attending such an event promises to become an unforgettable adventure.

All who wish to organize a private party in an unusual place or diversify their leisure with a non-standard excursion should definitely pay attention to the old Amoreiras Reservoir Мае d'Agua. It is located near the park of the same name and has not been used for its intended purpose for a long time. Along with that, the old reservoir is open for tours and often hosts interesting exhibitions. The reservoir is also available for private parties. A chic relaxation area with panoramic terraces was equipped on the roof of the historic building, and old fountains were restored in the reservoir itself.

Want to visit a place remote from busy touristy areas? A great option would be the “secret” Garden Taurel. It is customary to call it secret because of its hard-to-reach location. The garden is situated on top of a hill, the surface of which is covered with thickets of trees. Only a few tourists manage to get to this hidden corner. For their perseverance, they will be rewarded with a wonderful view of the city from the hill.

Fans of street art must take a stroll along the Crossroads of Art - this is the unofficial name for the crossroads in the historic district Picoas. Here, facades of historic buildings are decorated by talented artists with incredibly beautiful and colorful graffiti paintings. A lot of spectacular memorable photos can be taken in this place.

Take the Funicular Railway "Gloria" and the “Santa Justa” Lift

There are two means of transport that can be a fascinating attraction for you in Lisbon. The first of them is the funicular "Gloria". It has been open since 1885. The funicular is open from 7:00 to midnight on weekdays, from 8:30 am to 00:25 on Saturdays, and from 9:00 to midnight on Sundays. Its route has a length of 265 meters. You can go to its cabin in the Plaza de Los Restauradores. You will reach the Bairro Alto area in 5 minutes.

The second means of transport connecting the lower and upper parts of Lisbon is the vertical lift "Santa Justa". It looks like an elevator. It was built in 1902. It consists of an iron tower and 2 wooden cabins designed for 24 passengers. You can enjoy the picturesque view of the city while traveling. There is a viewing platform at the upper station. You will be able to admire the Lisbon standing on it. You will also drink orange juice, which will be squeezed out for you right on the platform.

Rock Climbing in the Parks of Lisbon

If you are not indifferent to the conquest of mountain peaks you can spend time doing your favorite hobby even during your vacation in Lisbon. You should visit one of the city's parks to do this. There is a climbing wall there. For example, the climbing wall is 8 meters high in Aventura. There is a wall 12 meters high in da Pedra. You will also have the opportunity to overcome 18 suspended obstacles of the route-adventures in the second park.

Surfing in the Suburbs of Lisbon

You will not be able to surf in the city during your vacation in Lisbon. The Tagus River is located next to it. Therefore, you can drive 15 kilometers from the city to reach the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. Many beautiful sandy beaches are waiting for you here. You can choose the one where the conditions for surfing match your level of training. For example, if you are a professional you can test your skills at Guincho beach. A strong wind blows here. The waves reach 1.5 meters in height. The Carcavelos beach is suitable if you are a novice athlete. But you can go to a surf school and rent equipment on almost every beach in the suburbs of Lisbon.

Visit the City's Best Attractions

You can visit several observation decks while walking around Lisbon. For example, the observation deck in the Monsanto Forest Park will give you a great view of the city and its surroundings. You can view all the historical districts from the highest observation platform of the Old Town.

You can also visit the observation deck located at the foot of the statue of Cristo Rey. The sculpture is installed on the river bank. You can reach it by ferry. It will help you find out how beautiful the city and the Atlantic Ocean look from a height. The same wonderful view will open in front of you from the observation deck of the St George's Church. You can also walk over the suspension bridge to the snow-white tower of Torre de Belem. You can see the Tagus River from there.

Swim in the Pool Located on the Roof of the Hotel

If you decide to take a break from the Portuguese heat while walking through the streets of Lisbon you can go to a 9-story hotel. It's called the Epic Sana Lisboa. It is located in the Amoreiras district. There is a large pool on its roof. You can swim in it. But you will have to become a hotel guest or book a day visit to do this.

Take a River Cruise

Employees of the Transtejo Company are happy to offer you a choice of 2 Tagus River cruises. The first one is called "Views of Lisbon". Its duration will be 2.5 hours. You will be able to get acquainted with the past, present, and future of the city during this time. The second cruise is called "Geographical discoveries". If you prefer it you can learn about the history of Portugal in just 60 minutes.