WYNTK: What You Need to Know...

A harbor city with windswept vistas, Moorish ruins, the city of famous explorers and vintage trams; it's the capital of Portugal, and one of Europe's most beautiful and cosmopolitan cities. So why have the number of American visitors been so low?

Perhaps Lisbon is a victim of their geographical location. Ironically it's the closest European capital to the United States, but because it's the most western country on the continent, Portugal (and Lisbon specifically) is often overlooked. Seems like tourists get to Spain, then head home or perhaps north to France. Too bad, as they're missing a city that offers World Heritage monuments and museums, nearby sandy beaches, and a paradise for walkers and photographers. And if you need further incentive, it's real value for your money, as officially named as Western  Europe's least expensive capital. Here's a glimpse of this fascinating city:

Neighborhoods

Alfama a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets and alleys, formerly the fishermen and sailors quarter, where you will hear Fado (fa-doo) music

Belem 4 miles from downtown. You can take the modern electric tram (#15) from Praca de Comercio or the old-fashioned tram from Rossio. trolley.  Jeronimos Monastery- burial site of Vasca da Gama,  Try the Casa des Pasteis, an egg tart made with flaky pastry called pastel de Belem. The Belem Tower, 120 steps if you can make it,- built in 1515 as a fortress to guard the harbor Monument to the Discoveries Padrao dos Decobrimentos-  a tribute to Portuguese explorers like Henry the Navigator, Ferdinand Magellan, and Bartholomew Dias..also a great view from the top.

Barrio Alta-located on a hillside, you can walk or take one of the old trams up. Lively neighborhood with bars and restaurants, and a another good opportunity to hear for Fado music.

Find out about the attractions that you don't want to miss in Lisbon in my next blog post on Wednesday!