Monday, December 21, 2009

Lisbon City Breaks Offer Charm And Beauty by Lance Thorington

Lisbon is the capital and largest city in Portugal. Lisbon city breaks are preferable in May or late September through October once the rainy season ends. Spring and autumn temperatures range in the 60s and 70s. Summers are warm and dry with temperatures above 70 degrees. Winters are cool and rainy with 40 and 50 degree temperatures.
The Lisbon shopping experience starts with the shops and restaurants in Lisbon Airport. Other shopping areas include the Amoreiras Shopping Center and Rossio Square which has numerous shops and cafes.
Transportation by bus, subway, train, ferries, and catamarans take tourists to their destinations. Since Lisbon is one of the smallest capitals in Europe, walking is also popular. The seven hills in and around Lisbon make for a good hike to some of the sights. Elevators are available to access attractions located on the hills. Lodging is available in the many hotels, castles, monasteries, and palaces in the area.
Many famous museums are in Lisbon. The Museum of the Orient depicts Portugese exploration through Asian artifacts, Indonesian textiles, and Japanese screens as well as masks, costumes, and accessories. The National Museum of Ancient Art is the most important art museum for Portugese art in Portugal and Europe. The National Museum of Costume and Fashion displays over 33, 000 costumes. The National Coach Museum has the largest collection of royal coaches in the world.
The Teatro Nacional de Sao Carlos opera house is open in the autumn and winter months and has its own resident opera company. Other theaters include the Centro Cultural de Belem which stages operas, ballets, symphonies, and exhibitions.
Instead of eating breakfast, many Portugese enjoy a light pastry and espresso mid morning. Lunch is the largest meal of the day, and most dishes include meat and are extremely filling. Vegetables are rarely served in restaurants except in soups. Waiters often bring appetizers even if not ordered. Cafes and patio restaurants serve food and provide entertainment by strolling musicians.
The Bairro Alto is the center of Lisbon nightlife with all its music clubs, piano bars, and lounges. Most smaller bars stay open until 3 am, but the larger bars in some areas stay open until 5 or 6 am.
The first place to go on Lisbon city breaks is the main tourist office, which is where you will get free city transportation and entrance fees to museums and other attractions. Lisbon's old fashioned charm and beautiful countryside make this a memorable getaway.

About the Author
Lisbon city breaks are preferable in May or late September through October once the rainy season ends. All you need to know on the ultimate vacation spot now on http://www.travelsoon.com/lisbon-city-breaks.html

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