25 Fun Facts (and some other bonus information) about Lisbon

Sometimes we can’t imagine how many things we have to know about a city…

When we visit a new city, it’s easy to fall in love with its beauty and charm without realizing just how much there is to know. From its history and culture to its landmarks and hidden gems, every city has a unique story to tell. Learning about a city can make our experiences richer and more meaningful, helping us to appreciate its nuances and better understand its people. However, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start and how to delve deeper into a city’s secrets. In this article, we’ll explore some of the essential things to know about a city, from its iconic attractions to its lesser-known treasures, so that you can make the most of your next adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, there’s always something new to discover about a city, and we’ll help you get started on your journey of discovery.

What about starting with some fun facts about Lisbon? Here you have 25 fun facts about Lisbon:

  1. Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal and the westernmost city in Europe.
  2. The city was founded in 1256 by Afonso III.
  3. Lisbon is known as the city of seven hills because of its seven hills that surround the city center.
  4. The oldest bookstore in the world, Bertrand Bookstore, is located in Lisbon and has been open since 1732.
  5. Lisbon is famous for its pastel de nata, a traditional Portuguese pastry filled with custard.
  6. The city has a bridge called the 25 de Abril Bridge, which is often compared to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
  7. Lisbon is the second oldest capital city in Europe, after Athens.
  8. The city is known for its colorful tiles, known as azulejos, which can be found on many buildings throughout the city.
  9. Lisbon has a museum dedicated to the history of the city’s iconic trams.
  10. The world-famous fado music originated in Lisbon’s working-class neighborhoods in the 19th century.
  11. The Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Portugal’s golden age of discovery.
  12. Lisbon has one of the largest urban parks in Europe, Monsanto Forest Park, covering over 900 hectares.
  13. The city has a famous flea market, Feira da Ladra, which translates to “thieves’ market”.
  14. The Christ the King statue in Lisbon was built in 1959 as a tribute to Portugal’s neutrality during World War II.
  15. Lisbon’s iconic red and yellow trams are a popular tourist attraction and still serve as a mode of public transportation.
  16. The city is home to the largest indoor aquarium in Europe, Oceanário de Lisboa.
  17. Lisbon has a unique funicular railway, Elevador da Glória, which connects the city’s downtown to the Bairro Alto neighborhood.
  18. The Vasco da Gama Bridge, which spans the Tagus River, is the longest bridge in Europe, measuring 17.2 kilometers.
  19. Lisbon is home to the oldest public garden in Europe, Jardim Botânico da Ajuda, which was founded in 1768.
  20. The São Jorge Castle in Lisbon dates back to the 11th century and offers stunning views of the city.
  21. Lisbon has a thriving street art scene, with murals and graffiti art found throughout the city.
  22. The city’s central square, Praça do Comércio, was once the site of the royal palace and is now a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists.
  23. Lisbon has a strong maritime history and is home to the National Maritime Museum.
  24. The city’s historic district, Alfama, is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways that is best explored on foot.
  25. Lisbon’s airport is named after Portugal’s most famous explorer, Vasco da Gama.

More details about Lisbon…

Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal, located on the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula. It is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage, with a population of around 500,000 people. It has a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Its location on the Atlantic Ocean also means that it experiences a cooling sea breeze, which can be a relief during the hotter months.

Lisbon is a vibrant and bustling city with a mix of old and new architecture, including Gothic cathedrals, medieval castles, and colorful modern buildings. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Lisbon include the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Castle of São Jorge.

The city is also known for its cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, grilled meats, and traditional pastries like the famous pastel de nata. Visitors can sample local delicacies at the city’s many restaurants and cafes, or visit one of the numerous food markets and try a variety of Portuguese specialties.

Also, it has a strong cultural scene, with a number of museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing the city’s artistic heritage. The National Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the National Coach Museum are just a few of the many cultural attractions in the city.

Additionally, Lisbon is known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues catering to a wide range of tastes. The Bairro Alto neighborhood is particularly popular for its many bars and restaurants, while the Docas area by the river is a great spot for outdoor drinking and dancing.

Transportation in Lisbon is convenient and efficient, with a metro system, buses, trams, and taxis readily available. The city is also home to the iconic Elevador de Santa Justa, a historic elevator that connects the lower and upper parts of the city.

Want to know Lisbon with lots of fun and in an easy way? Run to our trails!

The tours are designed for all ages, it’s an interactive and engaging way to discover the history, culture, and hidden gems of Lisbon. You’ll learn fascinating facts about the city, solve riddles, and most importantly, have lots of fun! This tours are perfect for families, friends, and solo travellers who want to explore the city in a unique and exciting way.

As you follow the tours, you’ll explore Lisbon. You’ll discover some of the neighborhood’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Pastéis de Belém, Torre de Belém, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (in the Belém Tour) and the Elevador de Santa Justa , Praça dos Restauradores and Arco da Rua Augusta (in the Baixa and Chiado Tour).

But the tours are not only about sightseeing, as you wander through the streets, you’ll be solving riddles and answering questions that will lead you to discover hidden gems.

The tours are self-guided, so you can start and finish it at your own pace, you can also take as many breaks as you like. The tours are designed to be completed in around 2 hours, but you can take as long as you like to finish it.

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Angela

Angela

Passionate for adventure and lovely views. Always chasing the most beautiful places around the world and taking that as an advantage to give the readers some tips on how to explore the world.
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