The Joy of Getting Lost in Lisbon

Lose yourself in the Portuguese capital's soulful streets, where rich history, vibrant culture and unforgettable bites await around every corner

- By Rondel Holder

If you've ever dreamed of planning a trip to western Europe, your first thoughts may be destinations like Barcelona, Paris, London and Amsterdam. Often overlooked is the equally charming and historic, but more affordable, city of Lisbon, Portugal. Brimming with narrow and winding stone streets, it features a new shopping adventure or fresh culinary treat at every turn. Lisbon also offers panoramic views from its many hilltops, endless street art and distinctive culture that will sweep you off your feet. It's conveniently located on the coast of the southwestern-most country in Europe; you can get there in about seven hours from New York City, Boston or Philadelphia. Here's what you need to know to make Lisbon a destination you'll want to return to repeatedly.

Where to stay

A midsize city with a strong public transportation system, Lisbon is relatively easy to navigate. It's also quite walkable. Knowing some of the key neighborhoods will help guide your experience.