The parks of Sintra, such as the lush Parque da Pena and the mystical Monserrate Gardens, enchant visitors with their romantic landscapes, exotic flora, and fairy-tale ambiance, making them a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Portugal: Lisbon – National Coaches Museum
During my recent trip to Lisbon, I had the opportunity to visit The National Coach Museum in Belém, a remarkable institution dedicated to the history of royal transportation. Located in the heart of Belém, this museum showcases one of the most impressive collections of royal carriages in the world, offering a unique glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the European aristocracy.
As I entered the museum, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the space. The high ceilings and well-lit exhibition halls provided the perfect setting to admire the magnificent carriages on display. The museum is housed in two buildings: the original Royal Riding Hall and the more recent contemporary wing, both of which complement each other beautifully.
The collection has a wide array of carriages, ranging from simple yet elegant designs to extravagant, gold-gilded coaches used by royalty. Each carriage is accompanied by detailed descriptions that provide historical context, explaining who used them and for what purpose. The intricate craftsmanship, adorned with intricate carvings, lavish upholstery, and ornate embellishments, truly reflects the wealth and artistry of the time.
One of the highlights of my visit was seeing the ceremonial coaches used by Portuguese and European monarchs. The most eye-catching was the 18th-century coach of King João V, an opulent masterpiece adorned with gilded sculptures and intricate detailing, signifying Portugal’s imperial might during its peak. The sheer size and grandeur of this coach left me in awe, imagining the grand processions it once participated in.
Apart from the royal carriages, the museum also features a collection of horse-drawn vehicles used for daily life, from postal and hunting carriages to children’s coaches. This contrast between regal splendour and everyday utility offered an intriguing insight into the evolving nature of transport through different social classes.
What made my visit even more special was the interactive elements within the museum. Digital screens provided additional historical narratives, and there were even VR experiences allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the era of these carriages.
Overall, my visit to The National Coach Museum in Belém was both enlightening and enjoyable.
Planning your visit to the National Coaches Museum
Getting there
- 🚋 By Tram: Take Tram 15 from Praça da Figueira or Cais do Sodré to Belém.
- 🚌 By Bus: Routes 714, 727, 728, 729, 751 stop nearby.
- 🚆 By Train: Take the Cascais Line train from Cais do Sodré Station to Belém Station.
- 🚗 By Car: Limited parking is available, but the area can be crowded.
Getting around Lisbon
Getting around Lisbon is easy, thanks to its well-connected public transport system, walkable streets, and affordable rideshares. Here are the best ways to navigate the city:
Public Transport
- Metro – The fastest way to travel long distances. Four color-coded lines connect major areas, including the airport.
- Trams (Eléctricos) – The iconic yellow Tram 28 is a must-ride for tourists, but trams also serve practical routes.
- Buses & Trolleys – Extensive coverage, great for reaching places not served by the metro.
- Trains (Comboios) – Take the train from Cais do Sodré to Cascais or from Rossio to Sintra.
- Ferries – Cross the Tagus River to Cacilhas or Almada for great views of Lisbon.
Tickets & Passes
- Viva Viagem card (€0.50) – Rechargeable and valid on all public transport.
- Zapping fare – A pay-as-you-go system that offers discounted fares.
- 24-hour ticket (€6.80) – Unlimited rides on metro, buses, and trams.
Other Transport Options
- Walking – Many areas like Alfama, Baixa, and Bairro Alto are best explored on foot.
- Taxis & Ubers – Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow are cheaper than traditional taxis.
- E-scooters & Bikes – Available throughout the city via apps like Lime, Bird, and Gira.
- Tuk-tuks – A fun but pricey way to tour Lisbon’s hilly streets.
The Lisboa Card
The Lisboa Card is Lisbon’s official tourist pass, designed to help visitors save time and money while exploring the city. It offers free or discounted access to numerous attractions, unlimited use of public transportation, and additional perks.
Key Benefits:
Free Admission: Access up to 51 museums and monuments, including notable sites like the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Santa Justa Elevator.
Unlimited Public Transportation: Enjoy unlimited travel on Lisbon’s metro, buses, trams, and funiculars. The card also covers train journeys to nearby destinations such as Sintra and Cascais.
Additional Discounts: Benefit from discounts ranging between 10% to 50% on various tours, shopping, and nightlife activity
Pricing (as of 2025):
Adults:
- 24-hour card: €27
- 48-hour card: €44
- 72-hour card: €54
Children (ages 4-15):
- 24-hour card: €18
- 48-hour card: €24.50
- 72-hour card: €30.50
The card becomes active upon its first use and remains valid for the duration purchased (24, 48, or 72 consecutive hours).
Where to Purchase and Collect:
You can purchase the Lisboa Card online through the official website. After purchasing, you’ll receive a voucher via email, which can be exchanged for the physical card at various pick-up locations across Lisbon, including:
Ask Me Lisboa | Airport: Located at the arrivals area of Lisbon Airport.
Ask Me Lisboa | Terreiro do Paço: Situated at Praça do Comércio.
Codfish History Center: Found at Terreiro do Paço – Torreão Nascente.
Ask Me Lisboa | Centro Tejo: Also located at Terreiro do Paço.
Ask Me Lisboa | Cais do Sodré: Located at Praça do Duque de Terceira, Cais do Sodré.
Operating hours for these locations vary, so it’s advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
The Lisboa Card is an excellent option for travellers aiming to maximize their experience in Lisbon, offering both convenience and savings.
Eating out for vegans in Lisbon
- My Mother’s Daughters My Mother’s Daughters is a nature-based café located at Largo de São Sebastião da Pedreira 49 in Lisbon, Portugal. Founded by a mother and her three daughters, the café emphasizes plant-based, organic, and seasonal cuisine. Their menu features a variety of healthy meals and drinks made from wholefood ingredients, including options like green smoothies, benedict no egg, and avocado.
- Veganeats Caffe is a charming vegan bakery and coffee shop located at Rua Cavaleiro de Oliveira 42 in the Arroios neighbourhood of Lisbon. They offer a daily menu that includes a hot dish, soup, savoury items, and various cakes. The café also specialises in custom cake orders. Their operating hours are Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Please note that they are closed on Sundays.
The 26 Vegan Food Project is a renowned vegan restaurant located in Lisbon, Portugal. Situated at Rua da Horta Seca, 5, 1200-213 Lisbon, the restaurant offers a diverse menu that includes vegan versions of traditional Portuguese dishes, such as “Francesinha” and “Bifana,” as well as international options like burgers and salads. They also provide a variety of desserts, including vegan cheesecake and chocolate mousse.
The establishment operates daily with lunch hours from 12:30 PM to 6:00 PM and dinner service from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity.
O Gambuzino is a fully vegan restaurant and bar located at Rua dos Anjos 5A, Intendente, Lisbon, Portugal, 1150-032. They specialize in conscious food from around the world, using locally sourced and fresh ingredients. The restaurant ferments its own kimchi, kombucha, and tempeh, and all pickles, preserves, dips, and marinades are house-made. They support the worldwide slow-food movement.
The restaurant is open daily from 17:00 to 00:00, with the kitchen operating between 18:30 and 22:00. Happy hours are from 17:00 to 18:00 and 22:30 to 23:30.
Reservations are highly recommended, and you can make one by calling +351 218 208 406 or emailing hello@ogambuzino.com.
For more information, including their menu and updates, you can visit their official website at https://www.ogambuzino.com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook
The best time to visit Lisbon
Seasonal Overview:
Winter (December – February)
- Temperatures: 8–16°C (46–61°F)
- Rainfall: Frequent but moderate
- Conditions: Winters are mild compared to much of Europe, though occasional Atlantic storms can bring strong winds and heavy rain. Frost and snow are extremely rare.
Spring (March – May)
- Temperatures: 12–22°C (54–72°F)
- Rainfall: Decreases progressively
- Conditions: Spring sees pleasant temperatures and increasing sunshine hours, making it an ideal time to visit.
Summer (June – September)
- Temperatures: 18–30°C (64–86°F), occasionally exceeding 35°C (95°F)
- Rainfall: Minimal
- Conditions: Summers are hot and dry, though the Atlantic breeze provides some relief. Heatwaves can occasionally push temperatures higher, particularly inland.
Autumn (October – November)
- Temperatures: 14–24°C (57–75°F)
- Rainfall: Gradually increases
- Conditions: The transition from summer to winter is marked by mild temperatures and increasing chances of rainfall, though early autumn often remains sunny.
Additional Climate Features:
- Sunshine: Lisbon is one of the sunniest cities in Europe, receiving over 2,800 hours of sunshine annually.
- Winds: The city often experiences the “Nortada” (north wind), particularly in summer, which helps to moderate high temperatures.
- Humidity: Generally moderate, but can feel higher in winter due to moisture from the Atlantic.
- Extreme Weather: Heatwaves occur occasionally in summer, and strong storms can bring heavy rain and wind in winter, though these are not frequent.
Overall, Lisbon’s Mediterranean climate makes it an attractive destination year-round, with warm summers, mild winters, and plenty of sunshine.
Where to stay in Lisbon
1. Mid Range: Ikonik Lisboa
Ikonik Lisboa is a modern 3-star hotel situated in Lisbon’s Parque das Nações district, known for its contemporary architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The hotel offers 231 spacious and comfortable rooms, each featuring an elegant design inspired by the city of Lisbon. Guests can choose between double or twin rooms, some of which provide city or river views.
The hotel’s location is particularly convenient, being within walking distance of key attractions such as the Lisbon Oceanarium, Vasco da Gama Shopping Centre, and the Altice Arena. Additionally, the Gare do Oriente train and metro station is nearby, offering easy access to other parts of the city.
2. Luxury – EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel
The EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel is a 5-star luxury establishment situated in the heart of Lisbon, near the renowned Marquês de Pombal Square and Avenida da Liberdade. This prime location offers guests convenient access to the city’s cultural landmarks, upscale shopping districts, and beautiful parks.
Accommodations: The hotel boasts 379 elegantly designed rooms and suites, each crafted to provide a modern luxury experience. Amenities include king-size or twin beds, luxury Aromatherapy Associates bathroom products, LCD TVs, USB sockets, minibars, and complimentary welcome amenities such as water and espresso coffee facilities.
3. Budget – Patria Hotel
Patria Hotel is a centrally located accommodation in Lisbon, situated at Avenida Duque de Ávila 42, near Saldanha Square. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms equipped with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, and private bathrooms with hairdryers. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. A continental breakfast buffet is available each morning. The hotel’s proximity to the Saldanha Metro station, just a minute’s walk away, provides convenient access to Lisbon’s historic center, including areas like Chiado, Rossio, and Bairro Alto, reachable within a 10-minute metro ride.
More to Explore
