Lisbon's most captivating attractions are concealed within the labyrinth of its narrow streets. While many tourists prefer exploring Lisbon on foot, opting for a speedy minivan or minicar ride can also be a convenient way to get around the city.
The walls of the buildings in Lisbon are adorned with a smooth tile known as azulejo, which is a distinctive feature of the city. The local streets, in essence, function as an art gallery, ensuring that any walking route in Lisbon is bound to be a delightful experience. Each house boasts its own unique azulejo pattern, contributing to the city's visual charm.
The tradition of adorning homes with smooth tiles was introduced to the city by the Arabs, while the penchant for the white and blue color palette was influenced by the Chinese. These designs span from intricate geometric patterns to depictions of scenes from the Bible. Interestingly, a peculiar type of crime has emerged here: azulejo theft. Wrongdoers would forcibly remove ancient tiles from the walls of buildings and sell them to collectors and tourists.
As you explore Lisbon, it's highly recommended to plan a break for ginja, a cherry liqueur. Ginja is often enjoyed right on the street, and in some places, it's served in chocolate cups. The ingredients include cherries, wine spirit, sugar, and cinnamon. A glass of this tincture typically costs around 2 EUR. If you opt for the version poured into a chocolate cup with a cherry, it may set you back about 4 EUR. After this delightful pause, your journeys around Lisbon become even more fascinating and enjoyable.
