Portugal, Lisbon

Lisbon served as our home base in Portugal for four nights prior to boarding a ship for a river cruise along the Douro River. The capital city of Portugal, Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, sitting aside the Tagus River near the inlet of the Atlantic Ocean. It is vibrant, full of intriguing historic sites, ceramic-tiled architecture, steep hills and cobble stone streets and sidewalks, breathtaking miradouras (sweeping views of the city and river), yellow trams and funiculars, soulful fado music, and culinary delights including seafood specialties such as grilled sardines and octopus, and traditional pastries like the Pastel de Nata, a custard tart. It's difficult to name a favorite Lisbon activity. I enjoyed our entire stay; however, I highly recommend taking in as many miradoura views as possible, visiting the Castelo de São Jorge (St George's Castle), the Carmo Convent Ruins, and visiting the Praça do Comércio (plaza). When finished at the plaza, take the short elevator ride and climb to the top of the Rua Augusta Arch to take in the 360-degree views. Then find lunch along the Rua Augusta, a vibrant pedestrian street full of restaurants and shopping, leading to Rossio Square. Finally, wherever you go, watch for the gorgeous ceramic tiles and the unique cobbled stone patterns. And remember to sample the Pastel de Nata!