Forget Paris and Rome—travelers in the know are going gaga for Lisbon.
Once one of western Europe's most underrated capitals, Portugal's largest city is suddenly on everybody's radar, and not a moment too soon.
Here are a few reasons you should pack your bags and head over as soon as possible.
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It's cheap
Popular western European destinations like London, Paris, and Rome can be staggeringly expensive. Lisbon, on the other hand, offers the same old-world ambiance at a bargain. Most of the city's attractions are free or inexpensive to enter, and the local food and wine offer high quality at low prices. Family-run inns, known as pensaos, are not only more affordable than your typical hotel, but they also provide a more authentic experience.
It's gorgeous
From the wide, tree-lined Avenida de Liberdade, to the brightly painted houses in Baixa and Alfama, to the majestic arches in Terreiro de Paço (Lisbon's sprawling central square), Lisbon's streets are filled with whimsy, romance, and vibrancy. Don't forget to look down as you stroll: ornate tilework, a Portuguese trademark, adorn a number of the city's sidewalks.
The climate is ideal
Lisbon's position on the coast means it has great weather year round. It's sunny and warm from late May through October, while winters are mild, with blustery weather and snow rare. That's great news for off-season travelers.
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