A quick stop in sunny Lisbon

It was 16 degrees when we left Lisbon airport for the city. At 10.30pm. Excellent!

After a slow start the following morning, we wandered into the centre of town from our hotel. We decided not to take the pushchair due to hills and narrow walkways. Not the best decision as three and almost two year olds can't walk terribly far, so mummy and daddy shoulder rides were the order of the day.

In the lift

We came across the Elevador Santa Justa; a free-standing lift taking you up 32 metres to a viewing platform. What a way to see the city's terracotta-tiled roofs, castle on the hill and the sea. Stunning!

Fun in the fountains

From there we jumped on tram 28, a vintage tram that takes passengers on a scenic trip on narrow little streets, up hills, past all sorts of little shops and great views. We missed the stop for the castle, so continued to the end of the line, Martim Moniz. As it happened to be beside a park, we had a picnic, then Eleanor and Leo had play in the fountain; a series of small jets of water coming out of the ground. I am not sure quite what the locals thought of two soaking wet children racing through the water, but Eleanor and Leo had a fantastic time.

Trams

We jumped on the tram again to wind our way back up to Castelo S. Jorges. We spent our time there following self-appointed tour leader Eleanor around the parapets and again enjoying amazing views over the city.

Arco da Rua Augusto

We stopped quickly at Commercial Square and admired the striking Arco da Rua Augusta (a huge arch leading into the square).

Heading back to our hotel at about 6.30pm, it was 31 degrees. Lovely, but hard work with heavy children on shoulders while walking up hill. Not complaining though!

All in all, a great day in the sunshine in a welcoming European city. Now Portugal is firmly on our list of countries to see when next over this way.

Next up: Spain.