Cruising in Lisbon: what to see interesting
Let’s discover Lisbon, Portugal’s capital and main city, with Cruising Journal‘s tips for the perfect visit during a cruise call!
Lisbon has a lot to offer, including culture, art and food, and you certainly won’t be able to visit it all in one day, but with our tips you’ll get a great taste of this beautiful city!
Meanwhile, you should know that Lisbon‘s cruise port consists of four terminals: Alcantara, Rocha Conde Obidos, Jardim Tabaco, and Santa Apolonia. They are all located along the north bank of the Tagus River, but depending on where your ship docks, the city center might be a bit far to walk to, but don’t worry, this is not a problem because many cruise ships offer a shuttle service from the port to the city and there are also many cabs. In addition, the subway station is nearby and guided shore excursions depart from the port.
Lisbon
But now let’s talk about Lisbon! The arrival in Lisbon is unique, the ship enters the mouth of the Tagus River passing under the April 25 Bridge, so remember to exit before arrival on an outside deck so you don’t miss the show!
Lisbon April 25 bridge
Once you disembark you will have to pay close attention to the time you have available and juggle it as best you can, this depends on the terminal where your ship docks, whether you decide to opt for a soft, leisurely tour (so slow walking) or if you want to see as many of the attractions of this beautiful city as possible!
Main stops are the Baxia neighborhood and Alfama, but also the Torre de Belèm. The latter, however, I recommend you visit only if you really have a lot of time, especially for those who dock at the pier furthest from the tower. If you decide to reach the tower, we recommend that you use a cab as public transportation takes a long time. Once you arrive in the Belèm area, which is very beautiful, I also recommend visiting the Monastero dos Jeronimos and taking a walk in the park. On the other hand, if you decide not to go to this area, don’t worry, you can also admire the tower from the ship!
Jeronimos Monastery
Belem Tower
But now let’s talk about the city center and thus the easiest and most convenient DIY itinerary. Once you arrive in the city, I recommend that you buy a daily public transportation ticket that will allow you to use the metro, bus and streetcar.
Take the metro to reach Moniz Square where you will take the famous Tram 28 to the hillside area. One of the symbols of Lisbon, Tram 28 dates back to the 1930s and takes a picturesque route through small alleys, dizzying climbs and descents and incredible views.
Tram 28 Lisbon
Reaching Alfama hill you will find yourself at the scenic area of Portas do Sol, from there you can reach the Castle of Sao Jorge, accessible by purchasing a ticket whose price is around 12/15 euros. Afterwards, continue to Lisbon Cathedral, which is about 500 meters from the castle; you will also find other very beautiful churches nearby.
Castle of Sao Jorge
Lisbon Cathedral
Now, walking about 800 meters, you can continue to the Elevador de Santa Justa, which has now become a tourist attraction, leading from the Baixa to the Barrio alto; after that you can continue with a visit to the Convento do Carmao and then head through Lisbon’s most important commercial street, Rua Augusta, to Praça do Comercio, a large square where you will find the arch of Rua Augusta where you can buy a ticket to go up to the panoramic terrace. Finished your tour if you still have time devote it to shopping or taste some typical dishes, otherwise return to the ship.
Carmo Convent
Santa Justa Elevator
Praca do comercio
Remember also that Lisbon is very famous for Azulejos, decorated ceramic tiles that you can find almost anywhere and also buy as souvenirs in one of the many stores in the city!
A very important tip for visiting the city is to wear comfortable shoes, given the many ups and downs and the pavement, and I also recommend choosing one of the two proposed alternatives so you can visit in peace and without anxiety! If you are visiting Lisbon for the first time, I recommend leaving out the Belem neighborhood to enjoy the city center. It will be one more reason to return to Lisbon once again!
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