6 things you never knew about Lisbon

1. The City Of Seven Hills Actually Has More

Lisbon has long been hailed the ‘City of Seven Hills’, but in actual fact there are more than just seven. It’s rumoured that the number seven was arbitrarily decided on to make it seem more like the Holy City of Rome.

2. Lisbon Guards Some Seriously Secret Recipes

The pastels de nata at Lisbon’s Pasteis de Belem are so revered that the centuries-old secret recipe has never been written down. A mere three bakers have been entrusted with the recipe for these flaky custard tarts, and they’re strictly forbidden from travelling in the same car or plane together. Superstitious, but sensible.

3. The Portuguese Are The True Creators Of Tea Time

The quintessential English tradition of tea time was actually invented by Portuguese princess, Catherine de Braganza. She brought the tradition to Great Britain when she married Charles II and relocated to the UK, bringing loose leaf tea with her.

4. The Government Loves Graffiti

Unlike other cities, Lisbon’s city hall has a taste for street art and runs its own public art programme called Gallery of Urban Art. There’s no boutique gallery space however; instead, they hire artists to make murals over old, decaying buildings. Look out for pieces by Vhils, Portugal’s answer to Banksy.

5. Lisbon’s Trams Aren’t Authentically Theirs

Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams are part of any picture-postcard image of the city. The idea, however, came from the USA, which explains why locals affectionately call them Americanos.

6. It’s Got Record-Breaking Bookstores

Lisbon is home to the oldest bookstore in the world still in operation: Bertrand Books, which opened in 1732. You’ll also find one of the world’s smallest bookstores in Lisbon. There’s only enough space for one person and an impressive 3,000 books, meaning you’ll have to ask the eponymous owner, Simone to leave the store as you peruse.

The Most Beautiful Running Routes in Lisbon

Read more

The Most Beautiful Running Routes in Lisbon

The best ways to break a sweat while seeing the sights. Prepare a playlist and explore the city on foot with the best running routes in Lisbon.
Meet the Artist

Read more

Meet the Artist

Meet Maria Antónia Santos. She constructed the perfect painting for our Maritime Suite.
Meet the Artist

Read more

Meet the Artist

Meet Diogo Navarro de Castro. He constructed the perfect painting for our Fado Suite.
Where to Sample Port in Lisbon

Read more

Where to Sample Port in Lisbon

Port has many facets, so take the time to investigate this delectable tipple at your leisure. From tasting rooms to wine bars near the castle, here’s where to sample the best Port in Lisbon.
Where to go for winter sun

Read more

Where to go for winter sun

From seaside resorts in the Algarve to the capital of Lisbon, there are many places to catch some winter sun in Portugal.
Date night ideas in Lisbon

Read more

Date night ideas in Lisbon

In a city with incredible food in every corner, and where every sunset is an event, here's how to think outside the box.
The Best Secret Bars in Lisbon

Read more

The Best Secret Bars in Lisbon

From a repurposed industrial warehouse to a former Chinese grocery and a reinvented rooftop car park, this is where to find Lisbon’s best secret bars.
The Best Vintage and Antiques Markets in Lisbon

Read more

The Best Vintage and Antiques Markets in Lisbon

Whether you collect antiques or vintage wares, the best markets in Lisbon have everything you need and more. Plan your trip with our guide.
Six Places to See Portuguese Azulejos in Lisbon

Read more

Six Places to See Portuguese Azulejos in Lisbon

From museums and palaces to factories and monasteries, Portuguese azulejos can be found all over Lisbon.
Colours of Lisbon: Tiles

Read more

Colours of Lisbon: Tiles

Today they are an Instagram-worthy attraction for visitors to Lisbon, but where did they come from? Read the history behind Lisbon's tiles here.
The Best Ways to see Lisbon this Easter

Read more

The Best Ways to see Lisbon this Easter

Here's how to spend your Easter break in Portugal to experience the very best of Lisbon.
The Best Churches to Visit in Lisbon

Read more

The Best Churches to Visit in Lisbon

The Portuguese capital’s sacred sites are where to discover the city’s historic charm. From a convent that’s open to the elements to Vasco da Gama’s tomb, discover the city’s history at Lisbon’s best churches.