It is almost as far as you can go southwest and still be in Europe - without dropping off the edge, into the Atlantic Ocean. At the very periphery of Europe, Lisbon is often strangely overlooked by aficionados who pontificate on the virtues of the best European cities. True, it does not have the iconic landmarks; many dismiss its cuisine and wine as lower tier; and, largely as a consequence, it is not perceived as having the pizzazz of Paris, Rome or Berlin.
Well, all I say to that is, oh happy days! I first came to Lisbon in 1975 and have been getting back whenever I could ever since. Of all the joys of this amazing town, one of the most pleasant is the remarkable dearth of tourists. Though, I'll concede, having the almost perfect climate ain't too shabby, either.
It is among - if not - the most crime-free capital cities in Europe. It's a walker's town, despite all the winding hills, with their sudden, stunning vistas as you come around corners.
The food may not be as famous as Greek, Italian or French, but it is delicious. And if you love sea food you'll be in heaven. And don't underestimate the wine. For some reason the standard exported fare isn't so great. The wine in Portugal, though, is a delight. The coffee is fantastic, too. Lisbon should be famous for its cafes!
For those overly concerned about such matters, fret not, Lisbon is well appointed with all the standard old European amenities: the cathedrals, museums, galleries, grand squares and stunning architecture. And, if you want to hit the beach, a hop-skip-and-a-jump south brings you to Costa da Caparica, where you'll find no less than nineteen ruggedly beautiful, sandy beaches. A quaint little railway travels their length, dropping sun worshipers at the beach of their choice. (Try doing that in Vienna or Paris.)
Lisbon is a wonderful place to visit. However, I would particularly recommend it to those considering longer stays. If you have the option of a professional sabbatical, a longer vacation that allows you to stay put and learn the rhythms of a place, the ex-pat life, or if you want to write your great novel and need an inspirational getaway, you can't beat Lisbon.
And you can't beat it for price. Compared to the rest of Europe, Lisbon is a real deal. Certainly it is more expensive than it was back in the 1970s, but in equivalent dollars less than you might think.
If you wanted to live or make an extended stay in Lisbon, it is important to know the neighborhoods, so you can choose the one best suited to your needs and moods. Here are a few of my favorite.
Top of the list, for me personally, is Alfama. It is the settlement legacy of the original fishing village that grew into Lisbon. That village sensibility still animates the place, with its charming, winding medieval streets. You always have stately Saint George's Castle looming behind you and constantly catch stunning views over the aquamarine sea. The housing stock is a bit on the rundown side, there's no denying that. On the other hand, more and more lovely renovated apartments are coming onto the market. The place to get these at the most modest prices is certainly Alfama.
If Alfama's largely family oriented atmosphere is too sedate for you, perhaps you'd be more into the party-hardy lifestyle of the bohemian Bairro Alto. Brimming with characters with character, wonderful restaurants, divine wine bars, and hopping dance clubs, Bairro Alto is the go-to spot for all manner of Lisbon night life. It's an exciting area to be and to live. It certainly, though, isn't for everyone. Say, for instance, you're one of those people who actually can't sleep through thumping dance music or throngs of merrymakers. Still, if you enjoy the vibe, a good compromise might be to look for something in the Bica and Santa Catarina neighborhoods. They're still real close, have the feel of Bairro Alto, but are considerably quieter at night. They're located just down the hill a ways.
Somewhat further north, a bit away from the action, is Principe Real. Formerly known as the antiques and gay part of town, this area has been rapidly turning into a hip locale for young professionals. The rental prices are higher, but it is very tranquil and packed with lush gardens and charming mansions.
Another spot with higher prices but oozing charm and character is Santos. It is situated right along the riverside, giving it oodles of cache. It has become a bit of a design hub in Lisbon. That shouldn't intrude much though on your enjoyment of this peaceful residential area with its very good quality housing.
There you have it: some of the very best neighborhoods in which to live during an extended stay in Lisbon. In the end, of course, it comes down to personal taste. Whatever your preference, though, rest assured, Lisbon can provide it. If the opportunity presents itself, whatever your tastes, I can't urge you enough to not miss out on the chance to get to know one of the most affordable and beautiful gems among the best European cities.
Well, all I say to that is, oh happy days! I first came to Lisbon in 1975 and have been getting back whenever I could ever since. Of all the joys of this amazing town, one of the most pleasant is the remarkable dearth of tourists. Though, I'll concede, having the almost perfect climate ain't too shabby, either.
It is among - if not - the most crime-free capital cities in Europe. It's a walker's town, despite all the winding hills, with their sudden, stunning vistas as you come around corners.
The food may not be as famous as Greek, Italian or French, but it is delicious. And if you love sea food you'll be in heaven. And don't underestimate the wine. For some reason the standard exported fare isn't so great. The wine in Portugal, though, is a delight. The coffee is fantastic, too. Lisbon should be famous for its cafes!
For those overly concerned about such matters, fret not, Lisbon is well appointed with all the standard old European amenities: the cathedrals, museums, galleries, grand squares and stunning architecture. And, if you want to hit the beach, a hop-skip-and-a-jump south brings you to Costa da Caparica, where you'll find no less than nineteen ruggedly beautiful, sandy beaches. A quaint little railway travels their length, dropping sun worshipers at the beach of their choice. (Try doing that in Vienna or Paris.)
Lisbon is a wonderful place to visit. However, I would particularly recommend it to those considering longer stays. If you have the option of a professional sabbatical, a longer vacation that allows you to stay put and learn the rhythms of a place, the ex-pat life, or if you want to write your great novel and need an inspirational getaway, you can't beat Lisbon.
And you can't beat it for price. Compared to the rest of Europe, Lisbon is a real deal. Certainly it is more expensive than it was back in the 1970s, but in equivalent dollars less than you might think.
If you wanted to live or make an extended stay in Lisbon, it is important to know the neighborhoods, so you can choose the one best suited to your needs and moods. Here are a few of my favorite.
Top of the list, for me personally, is Alfama. It is the settlement legacy of the original fishing village that grew into Lisbon. That village sensibility still animates the place, with its charming, winding medieval streets. You always have stately Saint George's Castle looming behind you and constantly catch stunning views over the aquamarine sea. The housing stock is a bit on the rundown side, there's no denying that. On the other hand, more and more lovely renovated apartments are coming onto the market. The place to get these at the most modest prices is certainly Alfama.
If Alfama's largely family oriented atmosphere is too sedate for you, perhaps you'd be more into the party-hardy lifestyle of the bohemian Bairro Alto. Brimming with characters with character, wonderful restaurants, divine wine bars, and hopping dance clubs, Bairro Alto is the go-to spot for all manner of Lisbon night life. It's an exciting area to be and to live. It certainly, though, isn't for everyone. Say, for instance, you're one of those people who actually can't sleep through thumping dance music or throngs of merrymakers. Still, if you enjoy the vibe, a good compromise might be to look for something in the Bica and Santa Catarina neighborhoods. They're still real close, have the feel of Bairro Alto, but are considerably quieter at night. They're located just down the hill a ways.
Somewhat further north, a bit away from the action, is Principe Real. Formerly known as the antiques and gay part of town, this area has been rapidly turning into a hip locale for young professionals. The rental prices are higher, but it is very tranquil and packed with lush gardens and charming mansions.
Another spot with higher prices but oozing charm and character is Santos. It is situated right along the riverside, giving it oodles of cache. It has become a bit of a design hub in Lisbon. That shouldn't intrude much though on your enjoyment of this peaceful residential area with its very good quality housing.
There you have it: some of the very best neighborhoods in which to live during an extended stay in Lisbon. In the end, of course, it comes down to personal taste. Whatever your preference, though, rest assured, Lisbon can provide it. If the opportunity presents itself, whatever your tastes, I can't urge you enough to not miss out on the chance to get to know one of the most affordable and beautiful gems among the best European cities.
About the Author:
For all the latest scoop on the urban hit list of Europe, we've got the dope at the Best European Cities site. Check out Mitchell Jones insightful piece on the top cities to visit in Eastern Europe .
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