Fado and Football

Description:

Located in a traditional building in old Lisbon, the past is present at the Pensao Londres (meaning London Hostel) and this is what makes it so charming. The place is often frequented by artists, models and journalists. There are quadruples available for families or groups traveling together.

Description:

Pensão Gerês is a neat little lodging in the centre of Lisbon, quite close to all the major sites of the city. Occupying two floors of a four storey building, this hotel provides for single, double, triple and quadruple rooms. They have a simple and minimalist appeal with just the required amenities being provided, like a television, Internet and a central heating system. They do not have any provisions for your meals, but there are many small restaurants and cafes nearby, so there is not much to worry about.

Our Local Expert Says:

A must-see for fans of the great diva and those with an interest in fado music.

Description:

Amália Rodrigues (1920-1999) was the leading exponent of fado, Portugal's version of the blues for over 50 years, and remains very much in the national psyche. The music is a soulful expression of longing and sorrow - in Portugal, the emotional concept known as saudade. The humble town house in which she was born is a site of pilgrimage for her many fans and has been refurbished into a museum in celebration of her life and achievements. It's also the headquarters of a charitable foundation established in singer's name. The street itself sings her praise, daubed in parts with graffiti announcing it as "Rua Amália". Short tours in Portuguese, French and English take in portraits, personal items including stage costumes and recordings and videotapes of her performances. Those from the 1950s and 1960s are especially poignant.

Our Local Expert Says:

This cherished Lisbon landmark is free to enter.

Description:

One of Lisbon's most impressive religious buildings, this 18th-century church is recognised for its huge white domed basilica - a beloved city landmark. It was built on the orders of Maria I, the eldest daughter of King José I. She had vowed to build a church if she bore male heir and after her son José was born in 1779 work began on its construction. The building was completed in 1790 but by then José had succummed to smallpox. The structure is a fine example of the late Baroque and neo-Classical architectural style. Balancing the dome's perspective are twin belltowers that flank the decorated façade. The stone mason's craft is further exemplified by a row of gesticulating saints set above the main portal. The marble clad interior is the final resting place of Queen Maria I whose elaborate tomb lies in the right transept. Visit mid-afternoon to capture the sunlight streaming through the dome.

Description:

This small urban palace was constructed in 1792 using the remnants of the glorious Basílica da Estrela (the Great Basilica of Lisbon). Acquired in 1977 by the Ministry of Justice, it has been used since then as the Attorney General's office. The interior is decorated by two large sculptures - the first entitled Motherhood, and the second Sorrow. Both sculptures are made from white marble and created by the French sculptor Guillaume.

Our Local Expert Says:

There's a big book and music shop here where you can pick up texts in English or a Fado CD to bring the traditional Portuguese music home.

Description:

Recently reconstructed after being destroyed by fire in 1988, do Chiado has grown into a bustling commercial district. Álvaro Vieira, a well known Portuguese architect was responsible for designing and developing the space into what it is today. The complex is a shopper s paradise and is home to some of the most refined shops in Lisbon.

Description:

Café Luso combines traditional cuisine of Portugal with entertaining Fado music and Folklore performances. This restaurant is located in the Bairro Alto district, and is housed in 17th century wine cellars that survived the 1755 earthquake. Some of the selections on their menu include Cod-Fish in Puffed Pastry with Chick-Peas and Spinach, Peppers and Bacon, Baked Trout with Mushrooms, and Stuff Veal with Spinach and Sausage. Fado and Folklore is peformed nightly, audience participation is encouraged!

Description:

A Tasca do Chico, located in the Bairro Alto neighborhood, is a small but charming nightclub visited mostly by the locals. It's perfect for wannabe singers, as they can take to the stage in here. But the real reason for Tasca do Chico's popularity is its affinity for "fado" (Portuguese folk songs). It is in fact one of the very few watering holes in Lisbon, which will offer you a genuine fado experience.

Description:

The Ginjinha is a typical Lisbon tavern, where the best wines and a diverse choice of salted specialties might be enjoyed. The surrounding area is one of the most historical and traditional in all of Lisbon.

Our Local Expert Says:

Football here means soccer!

Description:

One of the largest football stadiums in the world, Estadio da Luz attracts thousands of wild and rowdy fans from around the world for national and international matches. Known as the "Stadium of Light," it is classified as a 5 star stadium by the UEFA (Union of European Football Association), meaning it is allowed to host major European cup finals. Stop by to cheer on the home team, the SL Benfica. The stadium also includes a 3500 square-meter gym, a swimming pool, facilities for basketball, roller hockey, volleyball, billiards and badminton, restaurants and an amusement centre.

Description:

Lisbon's grand Estádio José Alvalade is a footballer's dream come true. The modern stadium was completed in 2003 to host games for the 2004 UEFA European Football Championship. The stadium, designed by architect Tomás Taveira, can seat 52,000 fans. Attendees need not limit themselves to just watching; the facilities boast many diversions: a shopping complex, movie theater, sports museum, bowling alley and a number of restaurants.The stadium is also home to Sporting Clube de Portugal.

Description:

This garden is a perfect escape for the tired tourist who wants to catch their breath from a busy day of sightseeing. Campo Grande also has a lake where boat rides are still available; a relaxing and enjoyable way to pass the time.

Our Local Expert Says:

Quebra Bilhas' history is strongly linked to Fado. In the mid 1800's Fado musicians started frequenting this venue to dine and sing.

Description:

A history of more than two hundred years is behind this fine restaurant. The references to the Quebra Bilhas go back to 1793. The dishes that are prepared nowadays try to keep the same quality and tradition of years passed. The grilled pork chops, the shrimp panada or the grilled squid with bacon are just three of the options available.

Description:

Opened in 1998, in an old bombing water station, the Museum presents over 12,000 pieces giving one an audio-visual insight of the music of old Lisbon. The place has an auditorium, exhibition area, cafeteria, esplanade, and shop. It also has an archive which stores historical Records using computing databases, a specialised library and sound archive. At the Escola de Guitarra Portuguesa music training is also imparted.

Description:

Located in a small street in Alfama, this place is well known for its accompanying fado singers. The photos of the best fado singers decorate the walls of this restaurant, in addition to a nice collection of traditional tiles. It is a nice place to enjoy dishes, typical to Lisbon. If you're not in the mood to eat, you can simply order a bottle of wine. A reservation is highly recommended.The photos of the best Portuguese singers decorate the walls of this restaurant in addition to a great set of azulejos.