The beautiful city of Lisbon lies draped across a string of seven hills on the western Iberian Peninsula and is the westernmost and oldest city in western Europe. Its long and tumultuous history has resulted in an aesthetic characterised by a haphazard combination of old and new; however, the aesthetic chaos of Lisbon only adds to its appeal and its undeniable charm. Bright yellow centenarian trams rattle their way up steep, tree-lined, cobbled streets; ornate ironwork balconies overrun with bougainvillaea sit above elegant outdoor cafes housed in ancient whitewashed, red-roofed stone houses; and a flurry of detailed mosaics decorate the sidewalks. Ancient statues adorn grand squares and hidden gardens. A diverse culinary scene, a plethora of fascinating museums, and numerous castles make it easy to see why Lisbon is one of Europe’s most misunderstood and underrated cities.
Located along Portugal’s breathtaking Algarve coast, a short 31-minute drive from Portimao, Lagos is a bustling city with beautiful beaches, dramatic seaside landscape and vibrant nightlife. Take a kayak tour around the coast to get the maximum effect of the region’s rose-hued cliffs, azure waters and golden sands, or spend a few hours wandering through the walled old town, with its historical churches and central piazza lined with sidewalk cafes. To explore the darker side of the city’s past, visit the Slave Market Museum, which traces the history of the slave trade in the Algarve from 1944 when enslaved people were first transported into Europe through Lagos. The city is the perfect springboard to explore Portugal’s southwest coast, with its idyllic beaches and excellent surf.
As previously described
As previously described
