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Number 28 tram - A novel and rewarding introduction to the Portuguese capital can be enjoyed on the Number 28 tram, a streetcar that trundles across the city through historic neighborhoods and past several iconic monuments.

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Igreja de São Roque - The church's rather bland-looking facade hides an absolutely stunning interior of gilded chapels, lavishly decorated with precious gemstones and polished tiles (azulejos).

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Azulejo - In Lisbon, you'll quickly notice the decorative tiles that embellish building facades and many interiors. Anyone interested in learning more about this intriguing art form should visit the Museu Nacional do Azulejo.

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Convento do Carmo - The skeletal arches of this once-grand church stand as testament to the damage caused by the 1755 earthquake. This is one of the few buildings in Lisbon left standing after the tremors had subsided.

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Castelo de São Jorge - You can't miss this hilltop showstopper! Lisbon's landmark castle rewards visitors with iconic views of the city and river.

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Igreja de São Vicente de Fora - Pay homage to Portugal's kings and queens in this impressive 16th-century church. Afterwards, climb to the roof for regal views over the river and city.

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Parque Eduardo VII - Named in honor of King Edward VII of England, this incredible park sits at the top of Avenida da Liberdade, and makes for a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

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Parque das Nações - The site of Lisbon's highly successful Expo '98 World Exposition, the whole area was later transformed into a modern "city-within-a-city." The striking Vasco da Gama shopping mall provides excellent retail therapy.

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Oceanário de Lisboa - One of Portugal's most popular tourist attractions is this huge oceanarium. Residents include sharks, rays, and an adorable pair of sea otters.

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Torre de Belém - The pretty suburb of Belém, west of the city center, is home to an amazing collection of historic buildings, among them this whimsical offshore tower, which dates back to 1520. It is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Padrão dos Descobrimentos - From the top of the Monument to the Discoveries in Belém, you can peer down on the world in the shape of an enormous pavement compass.

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Mosteiro dos Jerónimos - Deserving of its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning 16th-century monastery houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, who mapped a sea route to India in 1498.

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MAAT (Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia) - A relatively new museum, MAAT is a compelling architectural statement and visual treat. The facility hosts national and international exhibitions, showcasing some of the best work around.

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Antiga Confeitaria de Belém - Hungry? Thirsty? Head to this traditional café in Belém for great coffee and a warm pastel de nata. These melt-in-your-mouth custard tarts are prepared with a secret recipe that's been handed down from generation to generation.

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Museu Calouste Gulbenkian - If you only browse one museum during your stay, make sure it's this one. The priceless collections of Western and Eastern art span over 4,000 years.  (Photo: Flickr/CC BY-NC 2.0)

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LxFactory - It's worth nipping out to Alcântara, west of the city center, to hang out around LxFactory. It's a hip and artsy congregation of warehouse studios, funky boutiques, and quirky restaurants. The nightlife is lively and alternative.

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Aqueduto das Águas Livres - Spanning the Alcântara valley, this imposing aqueduct survived the 1755 earthquake, such is the strength of its mighty arches. You can walk across the structure.

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Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga - Portugal's national art collection is suitably housed in a former palace building. Besides works from noted Portuguese artists, the collections feature masterpieces from the likes of Albrecht Dürer and Hieronymus Bosch. (Photo: Flickr/CC BY-NC 2.0)

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Praça do Comércio - A royal palace once stood in this vast square, now a favorite meeting point for residents and visitors alike. A statue of Dom José, a Portuguese king, peers down on proceedings.

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Arco da Rua Augusta - Looming over Praça do Comércio is the monumental Arco da Rua Augusta, an impressive triumphal arch that offers a lofty perspective over the square and the Tagus River.

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Feira da Ladra - The city's ancient Alfama district hosts an engaging flea market every Tuesday and Saturday (Feira da Ladra means "Thieves' Market" in English). Arrive early to bag a bargain—you may even stumble across a rare antique.

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Casa dos Bicos - Built in 1523, the so-called "House of Points" is named for the extraordinary pyramid-shaped stones that stud the facade, a totally unique architectural feature of the city.

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Alfama - Alfama is Lisbon's most beguiling neighborhood. The old Moorish quarter is a labyrinth maze of narrow streets and hidden alleys. Wander here without a map, and you'll get lost on purpose.

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Miradouros - Lisbon's lofty viewpoints are known as miradouros, which are terraces set high above the city with jaw-dropping capital views. The panorama from Miradouro da Graça is particularly enchanting.

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Elevador de Santa Justa - Take a ride to the top of this eccentric-looking elevator for lofty downtown views that include the Convento do Carmo. The street lift, inaugurated in 1902, connects the Baixa neighborhood with the Chiado district.

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Praça Dom Pedro IV - This is a view of Rossio's Praça Dom Pedro IV from top of the Elevador de Santa Justa. The columned building is the Teatro Nacional de D. Maria II, built in the 1840s.

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Cristo Rei - Take the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas, on the south bank of the Tagus River, to reach this towering monumental statue of Christ. It's like a mini version of Rio's Cristo Redentor. The views from the top of the pedestal are spectacular.

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Casa do Alentejo - A wonderful city curiosity, seek out this restaurant and cultural center on Rua das Portas de Santo Antão, and gaze upon an ornate pseudo-Moorish palace that wouldn't look out of place in Morocco.

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Bacalhau à Brás -

One of the great delights of visiting Lisbon is indulging in some delicious and traditional cuisine. Try this fish dish, made with shredded cod, chopped fried potatoes, and wrapped in scrambled egg.

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