The capital of Portugal,
Lisbon was a major capital during the 15th and 16th
centuries when it was a hub of international exploration
and trade. Today the atmosphere is bright and confident
and in recent years it has grown increasingly energetic
and cosmopolitan. The infrastructure of both older and
newer parts of the city has been improved with developments
such as the Vasco da Gama Bridge which crosses the River
Tagus and improved rail links.
The historic Alfama quarter of Portugal
has medieval and art deco buildings, with old trams
running up and down the hills. Other tourist attractions
in the city include the Monument to the Discoveries,
the Mafra monastery and Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation
Museum. Nearby are coastal resorts with sandy beaches
such as Costa da Caparica and the forests in Sintra.
Driving conditions in Lisbon can be
difficult and visitors are advised to use the inexpensive
public transport system rather than their own or a hire
car. The network includes trams, buses, a metro and
elevators, which carry passengers from low lying areas
to higher parts of the city. Travel passes are available
which as well as offering unlimited travel, during the
period for which they are valid, can also be used to
gain free or discounted entry to many tourist attractions. |
