Picture this: you just arrived at one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and are about to hop into a funny three-wheel car. This is the start of your trip, a ride around a colorful and vibrant place, blessed with clear, bright sunlight. Once upon a time, this was the place from where navigators dared to sail to the unknown. Now there are historic, overwhelming monuments, narrow streets, and delicious cuisine that will leave you craving for more.
Lisbon’s best-kept secrets are just a ride away! A tuk-tuk may not be traditional, but it’s a practical vehicle for anyone who wishes to travel around these steep and narrow streets or go to places where no taxi can go.
If you consider yourself such an adventurer, take a look at our selection of the best destinations for a tuk-tuk tour. Bear in mind, though: this is merely a taster and it’s possible you’ll be wanting to come back again and again!
Let’s go? Hop in!
Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte (Our Lady of the Hill)
It’s not just about the view. We’re starting here because this viewpoint will take up most of your time. And your breath. Set at the top of Lisbon’s tallest hill, its name comes from a glass-encased image of the Virgin and the chapel nearby, which dates back to 1147 and was rebuilt after being destroyed by the 1755 earthquake.
This is where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and see the sun shining on the Tagus River.
Miradouro da Graça (Graça’s Viewpoint)
A short walk away from the previous viewpoint, this is a popular place among the locals. Pine trees and drinks offer a cool place to rest. Pay close attention to the ground beneath your feet: you’ll find our traditional cobblestone designs. There’s also one of Lisbon’s oldest churches, built in 1271, and a bronze sculpture, an homage to Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen, one of our most famous poets, and who used to spend her days here.
Alfama
Alfama is our next stop, a historic and perfect district for anyone who enjoys wandering around. Don’t be scared by the maze of narrow streets, though, it’s part of the charm. If you stay long enough, you’ll feel a sense of community in the air or the same inspiration many artists have found here. Look around. Laundry is being hung, men sit at their doors, and local cafes are filled with loud talks, but not as loud as the man singing Fado from his window.
Sé (Lisbon Cathedral)
Towards the Baixa, there’s Lisbon’s impressive cathedral, Sé. It’s said that Saint Anthony was christened here, which makes for a worthy visit. This is the oldest part of the city, a treasure with 800 years of history for you to discover. Do you notice the blend of architectural styles? An outcome of Roman, Moorish, and gothic dwellings.
Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square)
Head down from Alfama to one of Europe’s largest squares, also destroyed during the 1755 earthquake. Today it houses government buildings and, at the center, the statue of King José I. This is the door of Lisbon. The main port is close by. Rua Augusta Arch makes way for one of Lisbon’s main streets. And facing south is Cais das Colunas. Here you can sit on the marble steps, admire the river view, or the street musicians performing.
By now you’ve noticed how much the city’s architecture has been influenced by the 1755 earthquake. If you want to know more about it, we recommend a visit to the Quake Museum.
Belém
You’ve seen the pictures: a large iconic tower, 35 meters high, looking like a castle, on the north bank of the Tagus River, one of the crown jewels of national architecture. The Discoveries Monument is close by, evoking the Portuguese Age of Discovery, with 32 historical figures from the 15th and 16th centuries, and Henry the Navigator at the top. Belém is where the Tagus River meets the Atlantic and is also a reminder of the past to the modern world.
Private Tuk Tour: visiting Lisbon is easy and practical
Looking for tours tailored to your preferences and interests? YELLOW Portugal provides a personalized service for your visit, with all the fun and comfort to fully enjoy what Lisbon has to offer.
Want to know more about these Tuk Tours? Visit our page here or feel free to get in touch with us!