Lisbon Holidays

The Belém Tower is to Lisbon what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris or Big Ben is to London. It is the city's most photographed landmark and is a must-see for anyone visiting Lisbon. Built in the 16th century as a fortification to protect the city from attacks, the Tower juts out over the main waterway into the city, the Tagus River. The tower is a fantastic example of Manueline architecture, a unique Portuguese style that fuses late Gothic and Renaissance. On our trips to Lisbon, we’ll learn about the history of the Belém Tower from our expert, local guide.

Just down the river from Belém Tower lies the famous Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and another beautiful example of Manueline architecture. The Monastery houses a number of famous tombs from influential people in Portuguese history including poets, presidents, and explorers. It is also the final resting place of Vasco de Gama, the first person to discover a sea route to India. We’ll visit the Monastery from the outside with an expert guide to tell us more about this famous landmark on our holidays to Portugal.

Lisbon’s Monument to the Discoveries celebrates the Portuguese Age of Exploration during the 15th and 16th centuries. This stunning landmark was constructed between 1958 and 1960 out of cement and rose-tinted stone and depicts 33 famous figures from the Age of Exploration staring out into the Tagus, including Ferdinand Magellan, Alfonso the 5th and Vasco da Gama. On our holidays to Portugal, we’ll visit this awe-inspiring monument and enjoy plenty of time to take pictures and marvel at the depictions.

These two districts are some of the most famous in the city of Portugal and make up the majority of the city centre. Built primarily after the Lisbon earthquake of 1755, the Baixa district is one of the first examples of earthquake-resistant construction and today is home to many elegant buildings and magnificent, neoclassical squares. Alfama, on the other hand, is the oldest quarter of Lisbon and maintains a traditional atmosphere. Filled with winding alleyways, delicious restaurants and cafes, the Alfama district is a great way to get a taste of authentic Portuguese culture.

Formally named King Pedro IV Square, Rossio Square has been a popular meeting place for centuries. Located in the centre of the city, this beautiful square has been the stage of revolutions, bullfights, celebrations and executions. The square is lined with traditional shops and quaint outdoor cafes where you can sit and watch the world go by. Café Nicola, the square’s most famous café, has been around since the 18th century. On our holidays to Portugal, we’ll enjoy plenty of time to relax and take in the atmosphere of this popular landmark.