Lisbon in a way is like a typical European Capital. The architectural fusion of old structures and new, congested central districts, public transport comprising of Metro, Trams, Buses and Taxis, narrow cobbled streets and broad multi-lane highways, small shops and eateries and big malls and corporate-run restaurants. You will find it all here.

However, it does not have the glamour and the tourist attractions like many of the other fancied European cities like London, Paris, Madrid or Rome. It is also perhaps smaller than these other cities and does not boast of too many historical monuments that the city can take pride in. Someone just needs to mention the Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, the Acropolis, the Coliseum, or even the hyped Manneken Pis; and you know what place is being talked about. Lisbon does not have any such grandly famous landmark. I literally laughed when a taxi driver said to me that the Belem Tower in Lisbon is very famous all over the world.

Belem Tower, Lisbon

Belem Tower, Lisbon

And yet, I liked the place. Lisbon offers warmth, a lovely atmosphere for anyone visiting the place for the first time. People here are friendly and genial, be it a top Executive, an IT manager, a concierge at the hotel or even a taxi driver – they are great hosts and most importantly, are very proud of the place. The only English-speaking taxi driver I met was passionately describing the history of the city, how it was not built in a day but over centuries, its great cultural heritage and some famous monuments across the city.

Also, the city has variety. It is not laid out in an organized manner, nor does it look swanky. In fact, some structures in the older parts of the city look pretty dilapidated. But it has a mix of architectural styles, colorful buildings and has ample greenery all over the city. It would always challenge you to believe it to be a European capital city – its top-class infrastructure notwithstanding – yet its simplicity and kind people will win you over.

The trip was preceded by the usual apprehensions about food, people, weather, language, etc. Thankfully, none of this turned out to be an issue and trip was very satisfying. Lisbon was a great experience and although I spent only a little over 4 days there, those days were a treat.