Lisbon Things to Do Tips by der_geograf

Igreja do Carmo Churches and monasteries Review

It was unclear during my visit if any tours operate here, but the ruins of the Igreja do Carmo are an impressive sight, and visible from many different points in Lisbon and from the Tagus River.

When the catastrophic earthquake of Nov. 1, 1755 sacked the city, this church--along with many other structures--was demolished. The ghostly stone skeleton survived the shock, and it still stands today as a powerful, impressive reminder of the destruction the city suffered at the hands of nature.

Directions: This structure is best viewed from the top of the Elevador da Santa Justa.

Elevador da Gloria Elevadores Review

This is a neat funicular with a pleasantly sluggish ride up the hill from the Avenida da Liberdade (Restauradores) for a 45-meter difference in elevation at a grade of 16% to Bairro Alto.

Directions: At Restauradores Square along the Avenida da Liberdade, the funicular is located on the right (if you're facing the direction of the river).

Elevador da Santa Justa Elevadores Review

I flirted with listing this as a tourist trap, but since it really is a "must-see," I will go ahead and list it here.

The price was reasonable (discounted with a LisboaCard), and the elevator operator seemed to be picky and fickle about how many people she allowed on the elevator at one time. In our case, she seemed to allow too many, and at the top the cafe was quite crowded.

(I did, however, have some of the best fresh-squeezed orange juice I have ever tasted!)

Nonetheless, it is an incredibly ornate structure (designed by M?snier and completed in 1902) that is worth the trouble overall, and affords some spectacular views of the city and the Igreja do Carmo. Just be aware that the structure does shake and sway a bit, and the stairs to the restaurant are a bit narrow.

Directions: Really can't miss it -- it is very noticeable! If you are walking down Rua Augusta toward the Tagus, keep looking to the right. (The name of the street escapes me.)

Elevador da Santa Justa II Elevadores Review

One sector of the grand panoramic view from the top of the elevador. I was temporarily trapped in the corner because of the number of people at the top that particular day.

On the way to the Castelo de S?o Jorge II . . . Azulejos (tiles) Review

More azulejos along the route to the Castelo de S?o Jorge . . .

On the way to the Castelo de S?o Jorge . . . Azulejos (tiles) Review

. . . there are several buildings adorned with the beautiful azulejos that can be found all over Old Lisbon.

Directions: After taking Tram 28 to the base of the hill where the Castelo is located, walk up the steep streets and you will see tiled buildings all along the route.