I have given Lisbon four stars but this is only because of the hills which might not be suitable for all senior travellers, although it must be said that the public transport system is one of the best I have ever come across in my travels. A Lisbon ticket costing 6 euros lasts for 24 hours and covers most forms of transport – buses, trams, metro, funicular, etc., although not the mainline train. We bought one of these every day and it was well worth the money. I was not keen on doing too much walking, having had a bad fall in the local supermarket car park in December which necessitated two operations and 8 days in hospital. However, I was fine in Lisbon, despite all the cobbles, so I need not have worried.
We stayed in a small hotel which is a short walk uphill from Marques de Pombal station – the hotel itself was very good but I must admit that I would prefer to be somewhere more central. However, after the downhill walk of about 5 minutes one is right near the centre. My friend and I both loved Lisbon and really want to go back there one day. It strikes one as an open, picturesque and friendly city which is easy to navigate (neither my friend nor I has a particularly good sense of direction) and there is so much to see and do. We were there for 5 nights but it wasn’t enough.
A tram ride (no. 28) is a must. This old tram winds through the narrow hilly roads up to the picturesque Alfama area with its wonderful views of the city. We took the tram on our first day in the city and enjoyed it so much that we went again on our last day.
Having travelled by tram uphill we walked down through narrow and pretty streets past attractive craft shops and a number of restaurants.
We found that prices were very reasonable (3 euros 60 for a bottle of house wine!) and the food was good. There is a lot of fish which suited my friend, and the custard tarts are amazing. I wish I had bought some home with me! Next time perhaps… because I definitely intend for there to be a next time!
