Cheap flights to Lisbon: compare ticket prices to Lisbon on liligo.com

Lisbon has the feel of a city on the Mediterranean but instead, it faces the open and rough waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The port city gained its fame by being the take-off point of many world explorers, like Vasco da Gama in the fifteenth century. Lisbon spreads itself over seven hills and overlooks the Tagus. Despite modernisation, the city's charm remains intact and it's narrow and busy streets are especially pleasant to walk through at night.

Essentials in Lisbon

From the Tower of Belem to Jerónimos Monastery, you will discover the beauty of Manueline art and your evenings will be serenaded by the melancholic verses of the city's fado singers. Lisbon is succulent, it's beautiful... who wouldn't want to spend their holidays in Lisbon?

Tower of Belem: This sixteenth century fortress, built under the reign of King Manuel I, was originally constructed to protect the port of Lisbon. It's an example of typical Moorish architecture and is known worldwide as the place were Magellan and de Gama used to prepare for their journeys to the New World.

Jerónimos Monastery: The Portuguese always had a talent in taking something old and turning it into something new. While this building is undeniably Gothic, the traditional characteristics have been used in a completely new way. This was very typical at the time when it was built. Admission is free!

Oceanarium: Spend a day at the Oceanario de Lisboa, one of the world's biggest aquariums. The Lisbon Oceanarium was built to celebrate the World Expo in 1998 and if the creatures inside don't impress, the building most certainly will. It features four completely different ecosystems from around the world.

Alfama: The oldest district in the city, Alfama was once Arab territory but today is a refreshing mix of cultures and styles. It's labyrinth of streets are enjoyable to wander. When night falls, the place picks up and the parties begin.

Fado: Every visitor should see a fado show before leaving Lisbon. Catch this musical tradition live at one of the many bars in Alfama or the Old Town. You've never heard a viola sing so passionately!

Find more information on visitlisboa.com.

Accommodations in Lisbon

Lisbon is a very tourist-friendly capital. The number of small pensions and cheap home-stays is impressive! For more comfort, stick to the mid-range hotels in Lisbon. Accommodations are divided into five categories: pensão (pension), inns (upscale), pousada (historic house), albergaria (small hotel) and alojamento (the most common, it's a classic hotel with no restaurant).

For pousadas and estalagems, trust the lists that the tourist office publishes. Book well in advance for these types of rooms. As for travellers on small budgets: don't dismay. You will find plenty of hostels and family-run pensions that will offer cheap rooms with excellent service.