What to include on a day excursion to Lisbon

Going on a cruise is a great way to take in a number of different cities and countries on one trip. One destination you should definitely include on a cruise around Portugal is Lisbon.

The capital has plenty for visitors to see and do, making it a hugely popular location for tourists heading to the Mediterranean country on an Iberia cruise every year.

If you only have a short time available in Lisbon, you'll want to make sure you cram as much sightseeing into your stay as possible. Therefore, it is wise to split up your itinerary into what interests you most.

History buffs

Many holidaymakers spend a lot of their time walking around old monuments and ancient sites during their breaks, but no one more so than a history buff. Being able to go sightseeing is the main reason they have gone abroad, and Lisbon won't disappoint this group of people as there are plenty of attractions to take in during their trip.

Head to Barrio Alto, one of the old neighbourhoods in the city, where you'll come across interesting architecture and a traditionally Portuguese ambiance. While it has now got some modern features, you'll still find boutiques, small bookshops and intimate bars, giving this area its famous charming character.

Also make a trip to Carmel, as this is home to the Convento de Carmo - a grand church. This is a great place to come to if you want to learn about the different cultures of the inhabitants of Lisbon over the centuries, with the Carmo Archaeological Museum featuring Roman, medieval, Manueline, Baroque and Renaissance collections, as well as prehistoric relics!

Outdoor enthusiasts

Like most cities in the world, Lisbon is full of shops, offices, restaurants, bars and cafes. However, this isn't to say it doesn't have a fair share of outdoor spaces too, and, for those who can't get enough of nature, spending time in some of its parks will make a change from lying on the deck of your cruise ship.

There are plenty of parks in the centre, so while strolling around the city in search for historical sites, make sure you take a detour through these areas. The green space will be welcome after crossing Lisbon's busy streets, while finding a shady spot underneath a canopy of trees will be just what you need in the midday sun!

The culture vulture

Culture vultures will have plenty to visit in Lisbon, so you'll have to choose where it is you want to go and see. To soak up the atmosphere, walk around the city's historical quarters, sit in one of its many cafes and spend time people watching.

You could grab a bite to eat in one of the city's terraces, which enable you to spend some time outdoors and learn how to socialise the Portuguese way.

After you have finished your coffee and sampled authentic dishes, there are plenty of museums for you to take a look at before embarking on your top cruise deal of 2012.

Head to the House Museum Dr Anastacio Gonclaves if you want to see a stunning collection of art or the Centro Cientifico e Cultural de Macau for a chance to learn about European and Asian history and culture.


 

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• cruise holidays
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• lisbon
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• portugal