Exploring Lisbon: A Weekend in Lisbon for an Art-lover

Lisbon has long inspired artists and creative types from around the world, with it’s vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and rich heritage. If you’re an art lover planning a long weekend in Lisbon, here are some hints and tips to help you make the most of your time.

Day 1: Explore the Baixa and Alfama

Start your trip by getting to grips with the historic centre of Lisbon, which is home to a number of stunning landmarks, and avenues upon avenues of Pombaline buildings covered in traditional azulejos (painted tiles). Begin at the Praça do Comércio, a stunning square that was once the centre of Lisbon’s cultural life and formerly home to the Royal Palace of Ribeira until it was destroyed in the earthquake of 1755. From here take in views of the Tagus river, the gateway from Lisbon to the rest of the world during the Age of Discovery, and the Statue of King Jose I on his horse crushing snakes in his path, overseeing the busy square below.

From here, head up to the Castelo de São Jorge, a stunning hilltop castle crowning the Alfama district offering breathtaking views of the city. The Alfama is the oldest district of Lisbon, originally founded by the Moors and forming a distant outpost of the vast Islamic Caliphate of Cordoba that dominated the Iberian Peninsula in the middle ages. Why not take an iconic yellow tram up to the castle, passing narrow lanes and ancient churches, and then walk downhill taking time to take in views of the city, the vibrant street art scene, and pop into some of the fantastic churches on route such as the Church of Sao Vicente de Fora or the National Pantheon for fantastic interiors, and spectacular rooftop views.

Next, either head to the Museu Nacional do Azulejo at the foot of the Alfama district, a spectacular converted monastery that showcases the fantastic history of Portuguese Azulejo Tiles from ancient to modern designs. Or head to the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, around a 20 minute walk or bus ride from the Praça do Comércio, which is one of the premier art collections in Portugal. Inside you’ll find a stunning collection of art and artifacts from across the country’s history and vast empire, including works by Bosch, Raphael, and Holbein amongst others.

End your day by exploring the winding streets and alleys of the lively Bairro Alto District, one of Lisbon's most artistic neighborhoods. Here you'll find stunning views, innovative restaurants, and unique bars attracting a stylish crowd.

Day 2: Visit Belém

On your second day, head towards the sea, past the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge, to Belém. It's home to a number of amazing cultural sites and museums declared a joint UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Start by visiting the Mosterio dos Jeronimos, a stunning Manueline monastery built from funds raised through the early Portuguese Voyages of Discovery, before heading to the Centro Cultural de Belem for the fantastic Museum of Contemporary Art MAC/CCB, one of the largest modern art collections in Europe, ranging all the way from surrealism to pop-art.

From there, head to the Torre de Belem, a beautifully decorated tower that once sat much closer to the centre of the river (the bank has moved in closer as the river has slowly silted in the hundreds of years since its initial building) and was a key defensive fortification for the city. Finally, to complete the loop, be sure to visit the gigantic Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a stunning monument celebrating Portugal’s rich maritime history. 

If you have a little more time while you’re in Belem, walk back along the bank of the Tagus towards the stunningly modern Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (or MAAT) for more sweeping views of the river, or the Museu Nacional dos Coches, for one of the world’s best collections of ancient royal coaches and carriages.

Day 3: Explore the Art Scene 

On your last day in Lisbon, spend some time exploring more of the city’s amazing art scene. Start by visiting the Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, an amazing cultural centre that features modern and historical art museums, documenting the history of human expression from the Ancient Egyptians to today, set in a serene garden with lake and concert hall. From there travel to the Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporanea, which is home to a stunning collection of turn of the century art from Portugal and across the world. 

End your day by exploring the street art scene around the LX Factory, an area of converted riverside factories, filled with independent shops, studios and some of the best bars and restaurants in the whole of the city.

Tips for Art Lovers:

Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your long weekend in Lisbon:

• Take your time to fully explore each museum and cultural site, and consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of each location.

• Lisbon is very walkable, and not only is walking more eco-friendly, you can also explore the city’s street art, which is one of the most dynamic street art scenes in Europe.

• Stay in a central location to make it easy to explore the city’s many cultural sites and landmarks. Areas like Baixa, Bairro Alto, and even the Marques de Pombal a little further out are ideally located.

• Sample the local cuisine, which is known for its fresh seafood and flavourful dishes. Local specialities include Baked Salt Cod, Sardines, and Pasteis de Nata.

• Consider visiting off season (between November and March) to avoid crowds and get a more authentic experience of the city.

Conclusion

Lisbon is full of beauty, and incredible art, and is the perfect destination for the art locker in your life. With its stunning architecture, and rich artistic heritage, Lisbon is sure to delight all kinds of visitors. So why not plan your own trip to this amazing city and experience it’s many charms yourself?