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HomeTown Lisbon blog offers you a selection of articles devoted to the destination Lisbon, its news, culture, activities and of course, its people
Sintra, a must-see getaway from Lisbon
Located just 30 kilometers from the Portuguese capital, Sintra is definitely worth a detour when staying in Lisbon. Classed in 1995 as a UNESCO world heritage site, it offers remarkable landscapes and monuments, giving it the nickname of "glorious Eden". In one day or more, discover this unmissable destination, whose multiple palaces will amaze you... Not to be missed The national Palace of Sintra A mixture of medieval, gothic and romantic architecture, the construction of which began in the 14th century, the National Palace of Sintra was the stronghold of the royal family until 1910, when the monarchy ended in Portugal. It is especially the magnificent azulejos - the famous Portuguese ceramic tiles - that decorate the many rooms of the royal palace that are worth the detour. There are azulejos from the 14th to the 18th century, including authentic Mudejar azulejos, with Moorish geometric motifs. Another remarkable part of the palace, the colossal chimneys, built in the 14th century to prevent the kitchens from being smoked. They are visible for miles around, one imagines then the greatness of the banquets that required chimneys so massive! Quinta Da Regaleira La Quinta da Regaleira is an estate built in the historic center of Sintra in the 19th century. References to alchemy, mythology, Freemasonry and Templars are numerous, both in the architecture of the palace and in the design of the park that surrounds it. It is an enchanting domain, as much by the quality of the work of architecture, as by the symbolism released. The mysterious palace and the Edenic gardens are remarkable for this reason. In particular, one can discover the initiatic wells, a little less than 30 meters deep, which expresses the symbolism of life and death, paradise and hell, and that one crosses by passing through several stages (represented By the floors). The various gardens, caves and lakes that surround the palace are mysteries to be questioned by visitors... Near the entrance to the park of Regaleira is the Seteais palace, dating from the eighteenth century, now transformed into a hotel. And do not hesitate to climb up to the belvedere, from where you can see the palace of Pena (Palácio da Pena), the castle of the Maures (Castelo dos Mouros) and the sea in the distance... Pena Palace The Palace of Pena is so unique that it was considered in 2007 as one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. It is the first palace in Europe to have been built according to the architectural style of Romanticism, and it is this extravagant architecture that inspired Disney studios to draw fairytale castles. With its bright colors and Moorish inspiration, the exterior is simply remarkable. The gardens are also bucolic and we advise you to climb up to the cross "Cruz Alta", from which the view is superb, and from where you can admire the whole Palace, placed on its hill. If you have more time The Castle of the Moors The Castle of the Moors was built during the nineteenth century by the Moors of the Maghreb to monitor the city of Sintra, but was abandoned after the conquest of Portugal. High battlements, fortified walls, solid ramparts, the visit plunges you into medieval times. From the highest points of view, the panoramic views of the hills of the Serra de Sintra and the plains extending to the Atlantic Ocean are exceptional. National Palace and Queluz gardens The Royal National Palace of Queluz was commissioned by Pedro III, future king of Portugal, and became the summer residence of the royal family from 1794 to 1807. It is still considered a jewel of Portuguese heritage: the opulence of Its decoration, the participation in its construction of the greatest architects of the time as well as its sumptuous garden in the French style, is for many, the Portuguese Versailles. One of the wings of the palace, the Lady Mary Pavilion, is today the residence of foreign Chiefs of State visiting Portugal. The Ursa beach It’s a 30 to 40 minute sporty walk (pack your sneakers rather than sandals) to reach the Ursa beach, but the reward is at the height of the effort! A very quiet beach, fine sand, rock formations nicknamed Ursa and Giant, and which gave its name to the beach) which gives it a particular charm... Getting to Sintra The most convenient way to get to Sintra is probably the train, direct from the center of Lisbon from the Rossio train station. A train passes every 20 minutes during the day between 7 am and 11 pm, and the journey lasts only 30 minutes. The station of Sintra is the terminus of the train: you then have a kilometer and a half to get to the center of the city. A bus system, line 434, connects the station to the city center and to the three palaces of the city. The bus runs every forty minutes, so the wait can be a bit long... By car, arrive very early before the opening of the offices, shops and palaces to hope to find a parking space near the Palace of Pena. Alternatively, enjoy one of the unguarded open-air car parks close to the station; From there you can take the bus 434 to Pena.
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Sintra, a must-see getaway from Lisbon
Christmas traditions in Portugal
Feliz Natal! Merry Christmas! A country deeply rooted in the Catholic religion, Portugal is one of the countries where Christmas traditions have been celebrated for generations. Gastronomy, religious celebration, family reunions... discover the highlights of the Portuguese holiday season! The dining table, the gathering point of Portuguese families In Portugal, “Consoada” is what they call Christmas Eve. It is identified by a meal, not sumptuous, but very copious, as often during the great celebrations in Portugal. More than luxurious dishes or expensive products, the Christmas table is above all the opportunity to savor simple but tasty dishes, all imbued with tradition. If cod is the Portuguese national dish, this postulate is also valid during Christmas. On New Year's Eve, they serve, bacalhau cozido, boiled cod with simple potatoes and cabbage cooked in water. A rather frugal meal, in anticipation of the many particularly desserts that will be tasted, after the midnight mass. In each house, a whole table is dedicated to desserts. According to tradition, this table of desserts will remain nourished for several days, to welcome all the relatives who come to offer their gifts and to present their wishes. Among them is the bolo rei, kings cake, in the form of a crown, composed of dried fruits and garnished with crystallized fruits. Formerly, the Portuguese served this pastry on the 6th of January, date on which according to the Catholic religion, the 3 wise kings would have visited the child Jesus. The 6th of January was for a long time the day on which the gifts were exchanged. Today, the consumption of bolo rei has spread throughout the Christmas period. Portuguese rice pudding, arroz doce, is also part of the usual desserts of the Christmas table. Lightly flavored with lemon, it is decorated with cinnamon. They also eat French toast and filhós, large donuts made from a dough close to the one used for bread, often very lightly scented with brandy and orange. A religious tradition still very present The midnight mass is still very visited in Portugal. It is called the Missa do Galo, literally "the mass of the cock". According to beliefs, a cock would indeed have sung the morning of December 25th, celebrating in its own way the birth of Jesus Christ. It is at the return of the Mass that they open their gifts, which according to tradition are brought by the little Jesus, even if Santa Claus is gaining ground. We also install the little Jesus in the family crèche, another tradition still widespread in families. Christmas cribs all found all around during the holiday season: in every house, in churches and even in gardens... The tradition of the Christmas tree is very recent, but has quickly become a custom. As proof, Lisbon recently erected the largest illuminated Christmas tree in Europe, 62 meters high. These traditions present throughout the country In some regions, one offers an orange with cloves, as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Another tradition that is still widespread in Portugal: on December 8th, families put seeds (wheat, barley, peas) to sprout in cotton soaked in water. The seeds will then be placed near the crib with oranges. On Christmas Eve, families lay them on the table as a symbol of prosperity. Finally, during the night of Christmas, the musicians and singers of each town and village, walk the streets to sing and play at the doors of locals. These events are called the Janeiras, although as their name suggests, they are most often held in January.
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Christmas traditions in Portugal
Shopping break in Lisbon, the most beautiful boutiques
Because bringing home souvenirs is part of the charm of the journey, discover our selection of the unmissable or original shops of Lisbon. To carry in your suitcases a little bit of Lisbon sweetness... Conserveira de Lisboa Bringing back cans of your adventures from abroad, is not ordinary. But yet the artisan canned goods of fish from the Lisbon Conservancy are so pretty and delicious that they have become the # 1 gift idea of any Lisbon holiday! The shop, authentic, has not changed since its opening in 1930. Conserveira de Lisboa (rua dos Bacalhoeiros, 34) A vida portuguesa Authenticity is the key word of this concept store that brings together under one banner the best of Portugal. Dishes, toothpaste, pencils, soaps, confectionery, books, sneakers... in this old grocery store you will find everything that is Portuguese, that has a history, and that is of quality. Going through the La Vida Portuguesa door is a real journey in time: you will find there the best things of our childhood and the bestsellers of our time... A vida portuguesa, Rua Anchieta 11, 1200-023 Chiado A Carioca At the gates of the Bairro Alto, this place is truly incredible: one is seduced by the scents of tea and coffee that come from the ends of the world, while admiring the Art Deco of the early years of the 20th century! A Carioca (rua da Misericordia, 9) LX Factory Located in Alcantara in a former disused factory, this space that regroups a bookstore, restaurants, cooking schools, workshops, business incubators ... is the fashionable Lisbon place to be. A place of creation, commerce and ideas of all kinds. There is everything for everyone in an industrial world with a very successful rehabilitation. LX Factory (rua Rodrigues de Faria, 103) Real Slow Retail concept store Real is the department store par excellence, which welcomes great designers and a more sharp selection. You can find everything: clothes, accessories, books, sunglasses, children's toys, decorative objects and even a snack area where you can enjoy very good bagels! A welcoming and bright place for a shopping break, where the very considerate staff has transformed the customer service into a true concept of "slow retail". Real (praça do Principe Real, 21) Cortico & Netos A very original concept in this shop: four brothers decided to sell the stocks of azulejos and industrial earthenware of a company founded by their grandfather, who had accumulated, since the 1940s, the end of series of many of these tiles. The result: more than 900 different designs are available for prices ranging from 2 € to 6 €. The 30 years of stock of this family are stored on beautiful wooden shelves. And more modern items are also offered. Calçada de Santo André 66, 1100-497 Lisboa
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Shopping break in Lisbon, the most beautiful boutiques
Lisbon with children, our best spots
Because during a weekend with children, one must plan accordingly for all, we have listed here for you the best ideas for family outings in Lisbon. Aquariums, museums, walks ... these places will delight the younglings and their parents, and leave in all a precious memory of their family getaway. Museums adapted to the desires of the young ones Planning a museum visit rarely enchants children. But this was before promising them a theme tailored to their interests and their passions! History, adventures or nature discoveries, Lisbon abounds of kid-friendly museums: Museu da Marinha In the heart of the sumptuous Jeronimos Monastery, the Marine Museum traces the epic maritime of Portugal, which was one of the great nations to travel the oceans to discover new lands. Life-size caravels, navigation tools, budding adventurers will love to immerse themselves in the journeys of great explorers... Museu Nacional dos Coches The National Museum of the Coaches of Lisbon brings together one of the most important collections in the world, which will make all the small princes and pretty princesses dreams come true. A real journey through time, to discover the splendours of royalty. Museu da Marioneta Located in the pretty district of Madragoa in Lisbon, the Pupets Museum is housed in a beautiful restored monastery. The museum presents puppets, dolls and masks from around the world. The scenography is superb, that even small and big can play about certain characters, which will be amusing for all. Oceonario The largest public aquarium in Europe, the Oceanarium was built during the 1998 Universal Exposition to raise public awareness of the protection of the oceans. The central basin, a giant aquarium with 5,000,000 liters of salt water, is home to rays, sharks, moon fish, starfish... 4 other ecosystems (Indian, Atlantic, Antarctic, Pacific Oceans) are represented and will delight the eyes of all small and big. A must! Parks and gardens for lovely family walks Because in Lisbon, it is often beautiful and warm, enjoy the many parks and gardens for a walk with your family. Jardim do Ultramar Its name alone is an invitation to travel: the garden of Overseas, the tropical botanical garden of Lisbon, will enchant you with its paths of palm trees, its Japanese garden and tropical essences coming from the end of the world... Located in the district of Belem, enjoy your walk to then visit the Fabrica dos Pasteis in Belem, to taste the delicious Pasteis de Nata, a mythical Lisbon pastry. Jardim da Estrela Discreet but charming, the Garden of Estrela, located next to the Basilica of the same name, offers a pleasant walk between small lakes, ponds, fountains with different varieties of trees, that come all the way from Africa, India or Brazil. The Playgrounds and the many ducks and geese will delight the younger. Parque Infantil do Alvito When the heat sets in, the lisboetes retreat to cool places: shopping centers, Sintra and... Monsanto. The later is the ideal place to enjoy nature, with its picnic areas, hiking, mountain biking trails, and recreational parks. The Alvito Park is located in the southern area of the Monsanto Forest, in the direction of Alcantara. Recently renovated, it offers very secure equippements and of quality, for toddlers and children up to 14 years. There are also terraces, an area for barbecues, an area reserved for soccer/football... The paradise of families in sum! With all these addresses, no more excuses to not to take your children for a weekend to Lisbon! With their large volumes and their ideal locations, our Lisbon apartments are family destinations by excellence.
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Lisbon with children, our best spots
Fado, Music of the Portuguese soul
Registered in the Intangible cultural heritage of humanity by the UNESCO in 2011, Fado is not regional music like so many others, only popular and usually appreciated by older people. Fado, on the contrary, is the soul of the Portuguese people, a lament universally respected in the country, so much that the remains of the singer Amalia Rodrigues, known as the queen of fado, lies in the Lisbon National Pantheon. To discover a whole section of the Portuguese culture, let yourself be swept away by the emotion of fado in one of the bars or restaurants where fadistas (fado singers) perform every night, you will most likely be moved by it. Fado, Pillar of the national identity This typical music, accompanied by plucked string instruments, mostly guitars, exploits the recurring themes of lost or impossible love , the past and death, sorrow and exile... The word fado comes from the Latin “Fatum”, which means "Destiny": the fate of sensitive people and nostalgic of their past. The origins of fado music remain unclear, although it is recognized that it appeared on the docks of Lisbon in the 1820s: it would be a drift of traditional songs sung by Portuguese sailors, or a mix of Brazilian and African music that resounded on these docks. First sung in popular neighborhoods, fado was then gentrified and professionalized: Maria Severa is the first recognized fadista, in the 1850s. Two variants of Fado are distinguished: The Fado of Coimbra, in a university town in the center of the country, sung only by men. This is academic singing, practiced in universities, where scholar singers, dressed in black capes, cater to students to entice them. They tell them about the city and the Rio Mondego river that runs through it, of student life and of love, and also take in and use the texts of great Portuguese poets. In contrast to the Coimbra fado, the Fado of Lisbon comes from the popular neighborhoods of the city. It usually tells small typical stories of everyday life, and can be sung by women as well. The modern fado is now known beyond the Portuguese and European borders thanks to the famous Amalia Rodrigues, known as the "Queen of Fado", who recorded no fewer than 170 records during her career. Currently, a new generation of Fado singers has risen and is making this music very much popular, to name a few; Antonio Zambujo, Ana Moura, Mariza or Cristina Branco. Where to listen to Fado music in Lisbon? Our “must” locations For a total immersion in the Portuguese culture, enter the door to one of the many bars or restaurants where Fado singers perform every evening: Fado em Si, in the Alfama district, there’s an institution where all the great names of Fado have been produced. Fine food, 4 to 5 professional Fado singers each evening offering a high quality service to an attentive and respectful audience: the ideal condition to discover the great Portuguese tradition of Fado. Arco de Jésus 7, Alfama, 1100-037 Museu do Fado (Museum of Fado), where an open-air concert is regularly displayed out on the terrace. To discover all of the history of Fado… Largo do Chafariz de Dentro 1 Duetos da Sé, near the Cathedral of Lisbon, a hybrid concept is displayed between food, culture and music. This place is recognized for the quality of its Fado music but also for other styles of Portuguese music. Take a look at the program before you get there! Travessa Almargem 1B Senhor Vinho, one of the most legendary Fado houses of Lisbon. Opened in 1975 by the famous Fado singer Maria da Fé and her husband, this has become an important cultural place of the Portuguese capital. Many talents have performed there like Ana Moura and António Zambujo, the famous Fado singers of the moment. Rua do Meio à Lapa 18
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Fado, Music of the Portuguese soul