About this experience
Behind the bright facade, Lisbon hides both bright and dark pages of history. Join me on this walk to unravel them and get a complete impression of the city. You will explore the historical center, admire the views, experience the culture, life, and gastronomy of Portugal, get oriented in the city - and all of this without getting tired, as it's the flattest route of Lisbon!
What to Expect
Rich walk through the center
During 3 hours, we will visit 3 districts - Baixa, Mouraria, and Alfama: allowing you to see iconic landmarks and journey through the eras of Portugal. Our route includes:
- Squares: we will start the tour at Praca da Figueira, discuss the independence of Brazil from the Portuguese Empire at Rossio (Pedro IV Square).
- Roman ruins and medieval alleys (you will get a glimpse of how people lived in those times).
- Monastery of Saint Dominic and Rossio train station.
- Santa Justa Lift: you will learn about its features, other projects of the lift's architect, and other engineering marvels of Portugal.
- Monument to Saint Vincent - Lisbon's patron saint.
- Mural depicting the city's history in a ribbon form: this will help you grasp the rich chronicle of Lisbon.
- Cathedral and Church of Saint Anthony.
- Riverside: we will remember the Nobel laureate from Portugal here.
- Commerce Square, where the tour ends. Why is there an elephant statue here and what does the majestic arch symbolize?
Viewpoints
Along the way, we will stop by two miradouros - Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol. You will enjoy picturesque views, see the azulejo-decorated Church of Saint Lucia, the 25th of April Bridge and Vasco da Gama Bridge, the statue of Jesus Christ, and the Carmo Convent.
You will learn (and much more):
- How Portugal became the wealthiest country in the world in the 15th century and how the capital's residents paid their karmic debts. Or are they still paying?
- Who ruled Portugal: I will tell you about the cowardly king who moved from a palace to a tent; the child king who ruined himself and the whole court; and other crazy rulers.
- Which horrific events the Portuguese hate to remember.
- Which European and Eastern traditions originated from Portugal.
- What the azulejo tile is really used for.
- Where Hollywood movies were filmed in Lisbon and which celebrity lives in the pensioners' and migrants' quarter.
Feel the Spirit of Lisbon
We will sprinkle history with heartfelt moments. I will take you to an ancient authentic azulejo workshop, show you photos of colorful Lisbonites and old laundries, talk about fado - the Portuguese romance phenomenon. And of course, you will taste the most delicious pastel de nata (according to the only reliable rating - mine) and ginginha liqueur.
Organizational Details
- This is a history-immersive walk through Lisbon and Portugal, but I am always ready to tailor my narrative to your interests.
- Additional expenses upon request: ginginha liqueur - €1, pastel de nata pastry - €1.
