Lisbon has been known for centuries as the Queen of the Sea, thanks to its great maritime heritage and its enviable position at the far western corner of Europe, where the continent meets the endless Atlantic. As a city destination, it’s nigh-on unbeatable; packed full of cultural treasures, vibrant nightclubs, bustling shops and charming cafés.
 

Culture-wise, Lisbon is as rich as Paris, Rome or London, boasting an assortment of palaces and monuments including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Having been largely rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1755, the city has a very unified style, making it the ideal destination for documenting on Instagram, guaranteeing to make all your friends jealous beyond measure. From the magnificent Rua Augusta Arch in Praça do Comércio to the elegant seafront tower at Belem, every historic building in the city is unrivalled in its beauty.
 

Even if you’re not a seasoned historian, you can still appreciate the beauty of Lisbon’s heritage with a stroll through the gardens of the Palace of the Marqueses of Fronteira or a bite for lunch at the Café a Brasileira. Revel in the time-old atmosphere of relaxation and take it easy over a glass of medronho brandy or a pasteis de natas – exquisite tastes with plenty of history behind them that are guaranteed to tickle your palate.
 

For a taste of modern cosmopolitan culture, head to the Bairro Alto neighbourhood, where you’ll find bustling shopping streets as well as plenty of restaurants, bars and clubs. The Ascensor da Glória is a funicular railway which connects the district to Lisbon’s Pombaline downtown, allowing you to sit back and watch the vibrant architecture and bustling city life pass you by.
 

Long a centre of art and culture, Lisbon is nowadays a vibrant centre of nightlife – a favourite destination of European millennials thanks to its music and film festivals and its many art galleries and museums, including the original Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. Named the European Capital of Culture in 1994 and having hosted the 1998 World Expo’ and the 63rd Eurovision Song Contest, Lisbon holds a special place in European minds and you’ll certainly fall in love with this vibrant and glamorous city.
 

WINGED BOOTS WISDOM
 

For a top-notch day out, head to the Parque Eduardo VII where you’ll find not only a glorious open space perfect for a brisk walk or jog, or a picnic, but also plenty of museums and monuments and conservatories – everyone is guaranteed a great time, no matter your interests.