CME Cruises Visiting Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon greets you from the water, a city of seven hills cascading down to the banks of the River Tagus. The approach itself is an event, sailing under the grand 25 de Abril Bridge with the Christ the King statue watching from the opposite shore. This is a city that rewards exploration on foot, but be prepared for its famous inclines; comfortable shoes are not a suggestion, they are essential. From the port, many of the city’s highlights are within reach. A short taxi or tram ride takes you to the historic district of Belém, the heart of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Here, the ornate Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Belém Tower stand as magnificent UNESCO World Heritage monuments to a golden era. A non-negotiable experience is tasting the original custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém, where the secret recipe has been guarded for nearly two centuries. For a journey into the city’s medieval soul, lose yourself in the Alfama district. This labyrinth of steep, narrow cobblestone streets survived the great earthquake of 1755. As you wander, you’ll catch glimpses of daily life, hear the melancholic sounds of Fado music drifting from small taverns, and can ascend to the Castelo de São Jorge for commanding views over the red-tiled rooftops. The elegant downtown, Baixa, offers a contrast with its grand squares and grid-pattern streets. Ride the historic Santa Justa Lift for another perspective on the city's layout. For a modern taste of Lisbon’s culinary scene, the Time Out Market provides a vibrant, high-quality introduction to Portuguese food in a casual setting. Lisbon is too rich to conquer in a day, so focus on one or two neighborhoods to truly appreciate its character.