Lisbon

The capital of Portugal, Lisbon is a magnificent city to explore and, if it's your first time, you will be in awe of its wonderful historical buildings, broad avenues and bustling port. Built on seven hills, Lisbon is located at the mouth of the river Tagus (Rio Tejo). It has a rich and proud maritime history as it was the launchpad for voyages of the intrepid explorer Vasco da Gama, Prince Henry the Navigator and Ferdinand Magellan, who gave his name to the Magellan Straits - it's little wonder Lisbon is known as the City of the Explorers.

Today the city seems alive and vibrant. The medieval Alfama district, Gothic Cathedrals and Torre de Belem represent just a tiny proportion of the architectural treasures the city holds. The thrillingly shabby-chic area of Bairro Alto is home to hosts of trendy coffee houses, open-air cafes and music bars, all clinging to the vertiginous streets and all the while, the haunting and melancholic strains of the traditional "Fado" music insinuate throughout.

Lisbon is the perfect city for strolling along atmospheric streets, people watching from its cafes, admiring the fabulous architecture or just soaking up Lisbon's unique atmosphere.