Lisbon travel information
Lisbon remains one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, due to the well-preserved architecture and lack of modern high-rises. It is also one of Europe’s cheapest cities and is a real delight to visit for the friendly locals, laid-back lifestyle, well-developed tourist infrastructure and stunning natural surroundings.
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Peak tourist season is roughly from mid-June to September. The climate is mild all year round, while winter is the wettest period. April and May offer great weather and fewer tourists.
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Portugal is one of the cheapest places to travel in Europe, although prices are starting to rise, so this may not last long. A reasonable restaurant tip is about 5 to 10 per cent. Good-humoured bargaining is acceptable in markets, but you'll find the Portuguese tough opponents.
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To save money on transportation, it’s best to buy a four-day or seven-day tourist pass which allows you unlimited rides on all forms of transport.
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The normal shopping hours are from 09:00 until 19:00, Monday to Friday; Saturday from 09:00 until 13:00.
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The inhabitants have a wonderful ability to learn foreign languages and you will find that the English language is readily understood.
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In Lisbon, there is an excellent ticket system for tourists provided by "Carris" kiosks. The holder of this ticket can visit 26 of the main museums in the city and enjoy free public transport during the time period. They are available for one, two or three days.
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One of the main problems in Portuguese restaurants is obtaining and paying the bill. The attitude of every waiter seems to be that once you have eaten you should sit and digest your food. Remember this is a Latin country and the pleasure of eating is taken seriously. Standing up to leave is usually enough to grab attention.
Useful travel tips resources
Footprint Guides – Lisbon
Excellent resource on Lisbon from this well-known travel guide publisher.
http://www.footprintguides.com/
Time Out – Lisbon
An exhaustive site offering loads of information and tips.
http://www.timeout.com/travel/lisbon
Fodor’s
A thorough and well known guide to all there is to know about Lisbon.
http://www.fodors.com
More topics on this site…
Lisbon maps and geography
Portugal travel information
Portugal travel tips
Portugal health and safety
Portugal maps and geography
Lisbon Trip Planner
Lisbon Accommodation
Lisbon Arts and Entertainment
Lisbon Bars and Clubs
Lisbon Eating And Drinking
Lisbon Festivals And Events
vGay and Lesbian
Lisbon Getting There
Lisbon History and Background
Lisbon Shopping
Lisbon Sports
Lisbon Tours and Attractions
Essentials
Visas: None for EU nationals. 90 days visa free for some other nationals
Season: June - September
Money: Euro – ATMs widely available
Language: Portuguese – English understood widely
Emergency #: 112