Lisbon was a revelation, I went there expecting a second rate city and left with the feeling that it is one of Europe’s best capitals. Firstly the UNESCO sights in Belem were impressive, the Tower has the a true picture postcard setting, and the Monastery is thoroughly impressive, if you have even the smallest interest in the Age of Discoveries this is a true pilgrimage spot, departing from this spot Vasco d agama and Fernão de Magalhães ‘discovered’ vast chunks of the world. The waterside area also has other attractions such as the discoveries monument and the Ponte 25 de Abril. Also worth a quick try is Pasteis de Belem special custard tarts that are only available in this area (don’t make the mistake like me of saying they just taste like all other custard tarts, desculpe Rita!). As for the rest of the city there is so much to see, the centre is full of squares and boulevards, the Alfama district is the tangled Moorish area that leads to the Castelo Sao Jorge, the perfect place to watch the sun set. Then just head to Baira Alto for some of the best and most densely packed bars in Europe, which also afford great views across the city and river. All in all Lisbon is a confident city that offers some of the best experiences of any European capital.