Visiting Lisbon

Set on the banks of the River Tagus (Tejo) and bathed in year-round sunshine, Lisbon is one of Europe’s most welcoming and characterful capital cities. A blend of historic charm and contemporary energy, it offers a rich cultural experience alongside excellent infrastructure, walkable neighbourhoods, and world-class hospitality.

Lisbon’s historic centre is a joy to explore. Wander through the narrow, tiled streets of Alfama, home to traditional fado music and stunning viewpoints over the city’s red rooftops. Discover the elegant squares and grand avenues of Baixa and Chiado, or head west to Belém to see iconic landmarks such as the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Lisbon is often nicknamed the "city of the seven hills" and it definitely lives up to its name - be prepared to walk up and down steep hills. For panoramic views, Lisbon’s many miradouros located in each of these hills, provide memorable vistas, especially at sunset.

The city’s museums reflect Portugal’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. Highlights include the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo), which showcases the history of Portugal’s distinctive decorative tiles in a former convent; the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, renowned for its exceptional collection spanning ancient to modern art; and the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT), a striking contemporary space along the riverfront. Other notable museums include the Museu do Fado, dedicated to Lisbon’s iconic music tradition, and the National Coach Museum, home to one of the world’s finest collections of royal carriages. 

Beyond sightseeing, Lisbon is close to destinations such as Sintra and Cascais, which are easily reached for half-day trips. The city’s compact size and efficient public transport make it easy to explore.

Food is central to Lisbon’s appeal. Fresh seafood features prominently (Portugal is in the top 10 countries with the highest consumption of fish in the world!), alongside classic dishes such as bacalhau (codfish), sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines), and bifanas (pork sandwiches) or pregos (beef sandwiches). A visit would not be complete without tasting a pastel de nata, best enjoyed warm with a coffee. The best place to get one is the original factory in Belém (Pasteis de Belém), next to the Jeronimos Monastery. 

In July, it is peak summer time in Portugal and you should expect hot weather during the day. Towards the end of July northerly winds start picking up, making Lisbon a rather windy city so you may need to bring a jumper or coat for chillier evenings. 

Restaurant suggestions: 

• Portuguese: Zé da Mouraria; Pica Pau; Pap'Açorda; Das Flores (Chiado)

• Meat: Café de São Bento; Café Império; Portugalia; O Trevo (for the best pork sandwiches in town); As Bifanas do Afonso 

• Seafood: Ramiro; Marisqueira do Lis; Pinoquio; Cervejaria Trindade

• All types of food: Timeout Market - Mercado da Ribeira

• Portuguese Custard Tarts: Pasteis de Belém; Manteigaria

For more information go to www.visitlisboa.com. 

Getting to Lisbon & Local Transport 

Getting to Lisbon

Being in the most western part of continental Europe means that we are a little far away from the rest of Europe and so the best way to get to Lisbon is by plane. Lisbon has one airport - Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) - which operates direct flights with most European carriers, including low-cost. The airport has a Metro station (red line) which takes you to the city centre. 

We do, of course, have trains if you want to opt for a more environmentally friendly option. Lisbon has two main train stations:

• Oriente: well-connected via metro (Red Line) and close to the airport.

• Santa Apolónia: located closer to the historic city center (Blue Metro Line).
  
  

Local Transport 

Metro

The Metro is one of the fastest and most reliable ways to get around the city. You can tap in directly at the gates using a contactless debit or credit card. There is no need to buy a separate ticket.

Alternatively, you can purchase a 24-hour public transport ticket, valid on metro, buses, trams, and trains within Lisbon. These are available at ticket machines inside metro stations.

You can also use the Navegante pre-paid travel card, which works across the entire public transport system in Lisbon. 

The metro runs daily from 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM. 

The closest stations to the EDS venue are Saldanha and Alameda, both within 7/8 minutes walking distance. 

Bus & Tram

Buses and historic trams in Lisbon are operated by Carris. You can pay using a contactless debit or credit card (on newer buses only!), or by using the Navegante pre-paid travel card. This card is valid across the metro, buses, trams, and some regional trains.

Taxis & Ride-Hailing

Taxis are widely available but not all of them accept card so be sure to always have some cash on you. Uber and Bolt are also available.

Lime Scooters

You can travel across Lisbon using Lime Scooters - to use them you need to download the app here https://www.li.me/en-pt/.