Lisbon

Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal. Lisbon is one of the rare Western European cities that face the ocean and uses water as an element that defines the city. Lisbon enchants travelers with its white bleached limestone buildings, intimate alleyways, and an easy going charm that makes it a popular year round destination.

Lisbon's recently refurbished metro system is quick and efficient. Single trip tickets within Zone 1 cost €0.80, although you can buy a 10 trip card for €6.50. However, a more economic choice is the all-day (til 1AM) pass which costs €4.00 . The all-day pass is also valid on city buses and tram lines. A rechargeable card is needed to travel in the Metro and Carris and costs €0.50 and it's valid for a year.

Go out at night to the central Bairro Alto, or 'High Neighborhood'. Just up the hill from Chiado, this is the place to go out in town. In the early evening, go to a fado-themed restaurant near the Praca Camoes, and head upwards as the evening goes on. If you're in Lisbon on the night preceding a Feriado or public holiday, you have to check this out. Tiny little streets which are empty in the daytime become crammed walkways which are difficult to get through.

Eating out is deliciously bewildering in Lisbon and with some of the best value cafes and restaurants in Europe, it's a great way to sample a smorgasboard of Portugese treats.

The area of Chiado offers Portuguese traditional cuisine at its finest, while the Baixa area caters to the tourists, all laminated menus and meal deals – with the exception of the seafood strip of Rua de Santos de Antão.

For a familiar taste, head to Doca de Santo Amaro and Parque das Nações where chain eateries abound. Doca de Jardim de Tabaco has scooped all the culinary and clubbing kudos right now, while eating in well-to-do Lapa means that you're paying a high price for quality dishes. Alfama is prime tour group territory, while Bairro Alto features traditional Portugese restaurants all scattered abundantly through its quirky narrow streets. Make sure that you dine at a restaurant that plays traditional fado music. Beware that you'll pay more than in normal restaurants, and the food and drink quality may not be up to the price, you're paying for the music experience.