BAIXA NEIGHBOURHOOD

The historical downtown of Lisbon is one of those places you'll never forget. Rebuilt in the 18th century after the great Earthquake and Tsunami of 1755, it's a snapshot in time. Wide car-free avenues, grand architecture and ornate cobblestone "Calçada Portuguesa" sidewalks that lead to a beautiful square that faces the Tejo river - it's an absolute must. After decades as a tourist trap, it's currently going through a renaissance with new hotels (see below) and restaurants that are worth a stop. Check out the beautiful Confeitaria Nacional, one of Europe's oldest pastry shops - and then for something new visit Typographia, a stand-alone shop where you can pick up limited-edition T-Shirts printed locally with contemporary designs.

Rua Augusta,
1100 Lisboa