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Virgin Voyages' guide to Lisbon, Portugal

Satiate your appetite for both culinary fare and historical flair.

LISBON

Grit’n Glam at the end of the (old) world

One of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon isn't shy about its long, rich past. Nestled across seven jaw-dropping hills overlooking Rio Tejo, the city boasts ancient ruins, white-domed cathedrals, traditional houses clinging to cobbled alleyways, and breathtaking views from every angle. Its strategic seaside position allowed Portugal to play a massive role in the Age of Discovery and, most importantly, develop a cuisine committed to creating thousands of different ways to cook bacalhau.
Lisbon is a taste of heaven on Earth for foodies. With loads of gourmet-food markets, Michelin-starred restaurants, and fresh seafood galore, the city offers something for every palate.

Whether you're yearning for culinary bites or historical delights, Lisbon is a must-visit for anyone with a fierce appetite. Explore what was once thought to be the farthest edge of the world, indulge in a cultural feast, and discover the untold stories reflected in the bright city lights.
Shore Excursions

Where a river, a sea, and a mountain meet at the tip of the world

If historic cities could talk, you’d be amazed by the stories Lisbon would tell.

The Allure & Lore of Lisbon

Stroll the Praça do Comércio — considered the most beautiful square in Europe — and along Avenida da Liberdade before heading to the lush Parque Eduardo VII. Visit the elegant districts of Belém and Restelo to visit the Jerónimos Monastery or the Ajuda Palace. Apropos to your day navigating this city, you’ll reach the Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries, a grand sculpture built in honor of the legendary Henry the Navigator and other essential Portuguese explorers.

The Grape Estate — Royal Residences & Wineries

Go Baroque — without losing anything — on a royal escapade to Mafra, a traditional city where kings, queens, and artists expanded this ornate style in the 17th-century. You’ll see the elegant Royal Convent and Palace of Mafra, built to rival the splendor of Rome. Traverse the unspoiled countryside over to AgedaMae, a private estate nestled between Lisbon and the gorgeous Atlantic coastline (the end of western Europe) to taste wine and traditional tapas.

Giving Me Life in Lisbon

Feel the pulse of the busy Baixa district walking through Praça da Figueira, then step into Rossio Square to find the city's beating heart. Continuing on to Praça do Comércio, you'll see one of the loveliest squares in Europe, and at Praça dos Restauradores, the obelisk built in observance of Portugal's liberation from Spain in 1640. For stunning panoramic views of the city, head to Bairro Alto. You'll view the iconic Baroque Church of São Roque and also get a break to explore at your own pace.

More Shore Things for your wishlist...

We have even more in our curated catalog.

Lisbon Sips and Spirits Night
Lisbon
Lisbon Sips & Spirits in The Night
Say saúde on a spritely nightlife spirits endeavor
Lisbon
Lets Look Up Lisbons Architectural Landscape
Lisbon
Let’s Look Up – Lisbon’s Architectural Landscape
Creative caper through symmetrical spaces
Lisbon
Lisbon 4x4 Throttles N Bottles
Lisbon
Throttles-n-Bottles
Jeep off-roading, then it’s wine-moding
Lisbon
Lisbon Tailgate Tuk Tuk
Lisbon
Tailgate Lisbon in a Tuk-Tuk
Traverse the city riding in a Tuk-Tuk
Lisbon

Record-breaking shops

Lisbon’s 1732 Livraria Betrand is the world’s oldest operating bookstore.
Shore Excursions

Luster of Ginjinha Liqueur in Medieval Óbidos

If you’re looking for a distinctively Portuguese day, head out to Óbidos and raise a glass of Ginjinha.

DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGS


Lisbon is the capital of contrasts. Home to a centuries-old bookstore and a famous custard tart whose recipe has never been written down, a walk down the city's winding streets can lead you to cheap young wines, dusty €1,000 bottles, impressive ruins, and striking modern buildings. With the residents keeping the local traditions alive at every corner (adorned with detailed graffiti murals), a visit to Lisbon is an open invitation to celebrate both its glorious past and the dazzling future ahead.

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