Lisbon has to number amongst the finest capitals to visit in the world. At its heart is the Harbour, which was the very centre of Portuguese history, bringing in the bounty of the explorers and later The Empire. The town has grown around this river estuary through 20 centuries of history, perhaps starting in the Alfama quarter of the city - which survived the earthquake of 1755 and today still retains much of its original layout.

This is an old town of Europe, period, and the old quarters of Castelo and Mouraria are also testament to this, located on the western and northern slopes of a hill that is crowned by the splendid castle of St. George. Often these narrow Medieval streets are brightly punctuated by traditional tile covered façades on buildings.

A proud empirical feel is added to the very centre of the town by wide, tree-lined boulevards of Art Nouveau buildings with mosaic paths and cafe terraces.

Of course, being the capital of a an incredibly sociable people (the Portuguese of course) Lisbon is also the stage for festivities and exciting nightlife… but remember, the locals like to party late!