lisbon

MINI GUIDE

Fall for

Lisbon

Forget Paris, London and Rome! Europe’s sexiest, trendiest and most vibrant destination is Lisbon, the ocean capital of the Western world. It’s a city where the skyline undulates like the ocean and you can eat a street-grilled sardine with the locals. Here to help you plan your Lisbon getaway is, our mini guide on how to explore this historic city.

We’ve Spent 145 Years Crafting Your Next Journey

Holland America Line cruises are born of 145 years of seagoing experience. One example is our Far East Discovery cruise that takes you to five countries, allowing you to experience Asia’s rich history and vibrant modern cities. Holland America Line also enjoys a long history in Alaska, which has earned us special access to the stunning sights and experiences of the Great Land. These carefully crafted itineraries will open your eyes to new people, places and cultures—for a greater appreciation of the planet we share. All while enjoying Holland America Line’s legendary onboard service and style.

PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL OR CWT VACATIONS TRAVEL ADVISOR FOR DETAILS

Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands.

MINI GUIDE

SLEEP

ALTIS BELÉM HOTEL & SPA The Altis Belém Hotel & Spa—a 5-star design hotel—offers an exquisite, modern experience. Located in Belém and overlooking the Tagus River, the hotel is minimalist yet chic. There are just 50 rooms but the hotel has a world of features, including a spa, suites decorated with illustrated wall panels, the 38°41’ cocktail lounge, and the Michelin-starred Feitoria restaurant; where Chef João Rodrigues blends traditional Portuguese gastronomy with the more exotic cuisines of the world, preserving the genuine essence of local, traditional flavors. altishotels.com

PALÁCIO BELMONTE The former residence of a noble family that dates back to 1449—the Palácio Belmonte was restored as a boutique hotel by French architect and ecologist Frederic Coustols. The feel is that of a private home, with a choice of 10 beautifully decorated suites. A pool, an organic garden and a blissfully serene atmosphere make the Palácio Belmonte a very difficult place to leave. palaciobelmonte.com

EAT

BELCANTO With two Michelin stars, Belcanto is, without a doubt, the finest restaurant in Lisbon, serving elaborate contemporary Portuguese cuisine. You may want to save it for your last night in town because if there is one lasting impression of Lisbon you’ll want to treasure, this is it. Dishes like pork from the Alentejo region with red paprika and bread mash or the suckling pig revisited are examples of the culinary genius of Chef José Avillez, a star on the Portuguese food scene. belcanto.pt/en/

TIME OUT MERCADO DA RIBEIRA A fixture in Lisbon’s pop culture, and one of the capital’s largest open food markets, this iconic market hosts 30 Portuguese quick ‘petiscos’ – or food stands. Traditional Portuguese dishes such as seafood rice, steak on a bun, salt cod with chickpeas and piri piri prawns are served in bite-or-hand-sized portions, so finger licking is totally acceptable. Best time to go? Weekend evenings so you can eat and feel just like a local.

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EXPLORE

Forget your map and navigate the back streets of old town Lisbon on foot, walking its cobblestone streets. Pack some comfortable shoes instead of your Louboutin’s or, if you prefer, take the TRAM 28, which goes right through the city. Hop on and hop off whenever something fabulous catches your eye!

ALFAMA Alfama means springs or baths – a reference to the hot springs found in the area. Without a doubt, Alfama is Lisbon’s most emblematic quarter and one of the most rewarding for walkers and photographers, thanks to its medieval alleys and outstanding views. Very few sunrises can match the one over Alfama, as seen from the top terrace of Suite Bartolomeu de Gusmão at Palácio Belmonte.

LX FACTORY Located in the Alcantara district, the LX Factory is a refurbished factory plant featuring an atelier, book shops, restaurants, bars, design, concept and furniture stores. It’s a prime location for getting your hands on hip, contemporary products. The inspirational graffiti sets the tone for one of Lisbon’s most progressive locations. –Nelson Carvalheiro

OUR CWT TRAVEL ADVISOR’S TIPS

The Lisbon Oceanarium (Oceanário de Lisboa) is not only Europe’s largest indoor aquarium, it was also named the World’s Best Aquarium by Trip Advisor. Featuring 8,000 fascinating sea creatures, the aquarium is designed to look like one giant tank, but it was also a cleverly disguised transitioning sequence of multiple water habitats. Be sure to visit the penguin exhibit for adorable selfie shots!

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