How to Plan Your Art and Nature Tour at Gulbenkian Museum and Gardens in Lisbon

If you are looking for a tour that is packed with art and nature, then the Gulbenkian Museum and Gardens private tour in Lisbon is perfect for you. This tour takes you on a journey through the famous museum and its stunning gardens. On this tour, you will see Portugal’s premier art collection, including artworks from all over the globe. You will also explore an urban oasis in the heart of the city, the Gulbenkian Gardens. Here is everything you need to know about planning your art and nature tour in Lisbon.

Choosing the Right Time and Schedule

The tour is flexible and allows you to choose from several tour times in a day, which makes it convenient if you have a busy schedule. You can choose from the morning, afternoon, or evening tour, depending on your preference. The tour usually takes around 2 hours to complete, so plan your time accordingly.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is located at Alameda Cardeal Cerejeira, 1070-051 Lisboa, Portugal, near Eduardo VII Park Observation Deck next to the fountain. Your private guide will meet you at the designated meeting point and accompany you throughout the tour.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour begins with a walk around the Gulbenkian Gardens, which is a tranquil green space in the middle of the city. The gardens have a variety of exotic trees, shrubs, and plants, making it a real haven for nature lovers. Here, you will also see an incredible lake, fountains, and sculptures.Next, you will head inside the Gulbenkian Museum, where you’ll see the one-of-a-kind art collections. The museum’s art collections feature some of the most exquisite artwork from the East and the West, dating from Ancient Egypt to present-day contemporary art. You’ll see some remarkable collections of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and furniture from various cultures worldwide.Moreover, your knowledgeable guide will share with you in-depth insights into each artwork, highlighting the artists and their historical significance. You’ll learn unique perspectives about each artwork, and this will add to your appreciation and understanding of the artworks.As part of the tour, you’ll also have the opportunity to take in the views of Lisbon from Edward VII Park. This park provides an expansive view of Lisbon city and its surroundings, making it a perfect spot for a photo opportunity.

What’s Included and Additional Cost

The tour includes a private guide, which means you’ll get a more personalized and engaging experience. With a private guide, you’ll have the chance to ask all the questions you wish to know about the art collection and the area’s history.However, Please note that entrance tickets to the Gulbenkian Museum are not included in the tour price and need to be paid directly to the host in cash. Each person is required to pay €10 for the entrance fee. Also, note that the tour follows a carbon-neutral policy, making it environmentally friendly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you want to enjoy a unique experience in Lisbon that combines art, nature, and history, the Gulbenkian Museum and Gardens private tour comes highly recommended. You’ll experience a fantastic time in this urban oasis in the city, plus have the opportunity to learn more about the art collections from around the world. To book the tour, head to book the tour here and choose the time that suits you best.

FAQs About Lisbon Answered

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city with a rich history, culture, and architecture. It has become a popular tourist destination in recent years, thanks to its vibrant nightlife, colorful buildings, and delicious food. Here we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Lisbon:

1. What is the best time of year to visit Lisbon?

The best time to visit Lisbon is from March to May or September to November when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are less. During these months, you can explore the city’s attractions comfortably without sweating and queuing in the scorching sun. Summer months from June to August are also popular, but the temperatures can rise to highs of 35°C, and it can be extremely crowded.

2. How expensive is Lisbon?

Lisbon is considered an affordable European city in terms of accommodation, food, and transportation. Prices for meals at restaurants, beverages, and groceries are slightly cheaper than other popular European destinations, such as Paris or London. In terms of accommodation, there is a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, to suit various budgets.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Lisbon?

Lisbon is a city with a lot of history and culture, and there are numerous must-see attractions. Here are some of the most popular ones:

i. Belem Tower

This tower is an iconic symbol of Lisbon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, originally built to defend the harbor from attacks.

ii. Jeronimos Monastery

This monastery is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, located near the Belem Tower. It was built in the 16th century and houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama, a famous Portuguese explorer.

iii. Alfama Neighborhood

This is the oldest and the most authentic neighborhood in Lisbon. It is famous for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and the Fado music tradition.

iv. Castelo de Sao Jorge

This castle offers spectacular views of the city and the Tagus River. It was built in the 11th century by the Moors but later became a royal palace in the 14th century.

v. Bairro Alto

This is the liveliest neighborhood in Lisbon, known for its lively nightlife scene, with many restaurants, bars, and clubs.

4. What is the climate like in Lisbon?

Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate, which means it has mild winters and hot summers. In winter, the temperature rarely drops below 10°C, but in summer, it can reach highs of 35°C. The city is sunny throughout the year, with more than 250 sunny days annually.

5. How is the public transportation system in Lisbon?

Lisbon has an efficient transportation system that includes buses, trams, metros, and trains. You can use the Viva Viagem card to access all public transportation, which can be bought at metro stations, tourist information centers, and some retail outlets. Taxis are widely available, but they are more expensive than public transportation.

6. What are some of the traditional Portuguese dishes to try in Lisbon?

Portuguese cuisine is delicious and diverse, with a focus on seafood, meat, and vegetables. Some popular dishes to try in Lisbon include:

i. Bacalhau

This is a traditional dish made from salted codfish that is cooked in various ways, such as boiled, grilled, or fried.

ii. Sardines

Grilled sardines are a popular summertime dish in Lisbon, enjoyed with a glass of local vinho verde.

iii. Pasteis de Nata

These are sweet custard tarts with a crispy pastry shell, found in every pastry shop in Lisbon.

iv. Cozido

This is a hearty stew made with different types of meat and vegetables, cooked slowly for several hours.

7. Is it safe to visit Lisbon?

Lisbon is a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, like every other big city, you should be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, such as not leaving your belongings unattended and being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Conclusion

Lisbon is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. From its rich history and culture to its delicious food and lively nightlife, it is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Understanding the city’s climate, public transport system, and top attractions ensures a smooth trip, and sampling some of the traditional Portuguese dishes is an absolute must. So, pack your bags and head to Lisbon for a memorable experience!

How to spend your time as a tourist in Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city full of culture, history, and natural beauty. It is a city that has so much to offer to its visitors, from its stunning architecture and museums to delicious local cuisine and charming neighborhoods. In this blog post, we will provide you with a detailed guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Lisbon.

Getting to Lisbon

Before we dive into the various activities and places to see in Lisbon, it is essential to know how to get there. Lisbon has a well-connected airport, Humberto Delgado Airport, which is just a 15-minute drive from the city center. You can take a taxi, Uber or use Aerobus, which is a shuttle service that takes you to and from the airport, with stops at major hotels and landmarks. Lisbon also has a great public transport system called Carris, which includes trams, buses, and metro lines.

Where to stay in Lisbon

Lisbon is a city that has a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. However, the most iconic and authentic way to experience Lisbon is by staying in one of the city’s charming neighborhoods, such as Alfama or Bairro Alto. These neighborhoods are full of local charm, narrow streets, and colorful buildings. Additionally, they offer convenient access to many tourist attractions.

Top Attractions to Visit

1. Belem Tower – This iconic tower is a symbol of Lisbon and is a must-visit attraction for all tourists. It is a historic fortress and is situated on the banks of the Tagus River, providing picturesque views.2. Jeronimos Monastery – Located close to the Belem tower, this monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a beautiful example of the Manueline style of architecture.3. Alfama District – One of the famous districts to explore, Alfama is filled with colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and local shops selling handicrafts, food, and souvenirs. It’s also known for its vibrant nightlife, including Fado music performances.4. Sao Jorge Castle – Another must-visit attraction in Lisbon is the Sao Jorge Castle. It sits atop the highest hill in Lisbon, providing excellent views of the city. The castle has a rich history and was once used as a royal residence.

What to Eat in Lisbon?

1. Pastel de Nata – Lisbon’s famous custard tart, is a must-try delicacy. They are a Portuguese egg-custard tart with a flaky crust.2. Bacalhau – Dried salted cod has been the heart of Portuguese cuisine for centuries, and there are over a thousand ways to cook and eat it. 3. Bifana – This sandwich made of pork loin stacked between two pieces of bread is a popular snack in Lisbon.4. Sardinhas – Sardines are a staple of Portuguese cuisine, and you won’t find them better than in Lisbon, especially during the June festivities.

Shopping in Lisbon

Lisbon has a range of shopping options available to tourists. Some of the popular shopping spots include:1. Avenida da Liberdade – This is the most famous shopping street in Lisbon, and it hosts a range of high-end fashion stores such as Prada and Louis Vuitton.2. LX Factory – This vibrant hub has a range of vintage clothing stores, gourmet restaurants, and art galleries.3. Baixa-Chiado – This downtown area is home to several international brands and local boutiques.

Conclusion

Lisbon is a city that has so much to offer, with its history, culture, and natural beauty. From its iconic landmarks to its vibrant neighborhoods and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone. By following the tips outlined above, you can make the most out of your trip to Lisbon.