Lisbon has mixed reviews, it’s fair to say. The city seems to divide opinion but I found much to like during a visit back in January. It didn’t hurt that the sun shone all the time; sometimes the weather can be quite overcast but we were lucky. It’s easy to get around on Lisbon’s buses, metro and trams.

Our first stop was the Botanic Gardens, near the waterfront in Belem. Although they aren’t as grand or well-maintained as some, there was still plenty to see during a 30 minute stroll, including an unexpected flock of peacocks!

Next we wandered over to the discoveries monument, marking the many Portuguese explorers who set sail for faraway lands on a voyage of discovery. 

We stopped for a quick lunch before visiting the Torre de Belem, a small but fascinating fortification right on the water. Look out for the rhino carved in the intricate southern façade, a momento of an actual live rhinoceros which was brought ashore nearby as a diplomatic gift for the king in the 16^th century.

I really liked this stretch of waterfront, it’s a good place to just sit and people watch for a while. Before hopping on a tram to Comercio Square we took a quick look inside the Jeronimos monastery church. 

Before changing trams we took some time to look around the square, full of people enjoying the unexpected warmth. The ice rink looked somehow out of place!

Our final stop was the Castle of St George, sitting proudly on one of Lisbon’s seven hills. It offers a great viewpoint over the city as the sun starts to set.

Have you been to Lisbon? Did you like the city or did you have a different experience?

I’m linking this post up with a new travel blog hop, #wanderfulwednesday. Find the hosts of this at the sites below and join in every Wednesday at 8am GMT. 

Marcella : www.whatawonderfulworld.co

Lauren : www.laurenonlocation.com

Van : www.snowintromso.com

Isabel : www.thesunnysideofthis.com