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Your trip to Portugal would be far less enjoyable if you don't spend a few days in Lisbon – the capital with a young, dynamic population and countless scenes resembling paradise.
There exists a dreamy, captivating Lisbon amidst the European landscapes
If in the entire year of 2017, we all saw the beauty of every nook and cranny in Japan, South Korea, Thailand, or Taiwan on Facebook, Instagram, and beyond. Or even further in Bhutan, France, the Netherlands, England, or Italy. Despite being familiar, each place carries its own unique charm with every season and moment. However, do you agree that we seem to have grown tired of those well-known destinations? So why not seek somewhere new, beautiful, and dazzling to explore? But where is that place?
Have you ever heard of Portugal? The homeland of the handsome and skillful football player, Cristiano Ronaldo. I'm sure you have. Did you know that the country boasts a stunning capital called Lisbon? It's the place that many magazines voted as the must-visit destination of 2018.
The historic and splendid city of Lisbon - Photo: Internet
Lisbon, also known as Lisboa, is the capital and the largest city of Portugal. It is built on seven hills overlooking the Tagus River. Lisbon features impressive architectural structures, peaceful alleys filled with colors, and charming houses.
The whole city is like a lively painting created by broad, elegant strokes and vibrant colors. International travelers coming to Lisbon, no matter where you stand, just lift your camera, and you'll instantly capture a photo worthy of thousands of likes. The dreamy and alluring background has captured the hearts of many adventurous souls.
São Jorge Castle is a highly significant landmark in the capital city of Lisbon - Photo: Collection
Many who have visited Lisbon advise: 'Don't go, because once you do, you'll fall in love and be endlessly impressed, not wanting to leave. And you'll end up spending on a few more trips.' With such heartfelt advice, who wouldn't want to embark on the journey right away?
Perhaps there's no piece of literature, no words that can fully express the beauty of Lisbon. You have to truly set foot, feel, and explore to grasp the complete beauty, poetry, and charm of this capital.
The area of Lisbon is not vast like many other places. You only need 2 to 3 days to explore it all. When undertaking an affordable trip to Lisbon, you must visit Castelo de São Jorge (São Jorge Castle). Here, travelers will witness the entire landscape stretching to the Atlantic Ocean and, most importantly, enjoy the fresh, gentle air.
Lisbon boasts numerous cultural heritages. Among them, the Gulbenkian Museum stands out – showcasing artifacts and Western art dating back 2,000 years.
The Belém Tower stands as an icon of this beautiful city - Photo: Huỳnh Thị Dung
To the west of the city lies the Belém Tower, a repository of a golden history. The Belém Tower is the symbol of Lisbon, built from 1515 to 1521 on a small island along the banks of the Tagus River. The tower consists of two parts: a hexagonal-shaped fortress and a 5-tier tower located north on the fort bastion. The fortress houses a chamber containing 17 cannon slots. Each corner on the bastion features small towers with a Moroccan-style vaulted top and the base adorned with rhinoceros statues.
Another place here that allows you to vividly feel the soul of Lisbon is the Alfama district – always pulsating with sounds from restaurants, bars, eateries, especially the Fado music performances on the hillsides during the night.
A common mode of public transportation here is the pushcart - Photo: Collection
When it comes to music, Lisbon is on par with the 'artist cities' in Europe. And Fado is the melody that has brought pride to the music scene of Lisbon in particular and Portugal as a whole. Enjoying a Fado music performance on the streets of Lisbon is an experience that any traveler coming here should not miss.
