Champions League Final 2014: Things to do in Lisbon

There may not be an English team playing in it this season, but the Champions League Final is always one of the highlights on the sporting calendar.

Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid will be facing each other in Lisbon on May 24th making it the first time ever that two teams from the same city have played in the final.

So whether you’re a Chelsea fan who optimistically booked their ticket in advance to the final (sorry!) or you’d simply like to visit the city in the near future, here are some of the best things to do in Lisbon:

Belem Tower

A must-see on any trip to Lisbon, this tower was built in 1515 to defend the city’s harbour. Sitting on the banks of the Tagus River, Belem Tower is often seen as one of the symbols of the country. The tower is equally as fascinating whether you want to explore the tower from the inside or from the outside.

Lisbon Oceanarium

Big fan of sea life? Then the Lisbon Oceanarium should be at the top of your to-do list. The aquarium is one of the biggest in the world and its vast variety of marine life makes it a great place to visit no matter how old you are. The huge central tank filled with various creatures also allows you to enjoy a deep-sea diving experience – without having to go into the ocean!

Castle of São Jorge

If you want to enjoy some of the best views over Lisbon, don’t forget to visit the Castle of São Jorge which stands on top of a hill overlooking the city and the river. The oldest parts of the castle date back to the 6^th century so visiting here allows you to see a real piece of Portuguese history. It is one of the main tourist attractions in Lisbon though so visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Lisbon Cathedral

If it’s traditional Portuguese architecture you’re after, you’re bound to be impressed by Lisbon Cathedral. Construction first began here in 1147 and the cathedral itself is packed with history. It has survived several earthquakes over the years meaning it’s been restored many times. It’s now a quirky mix of various architectural styles including Gothic, Baroque and Romanesque.

Museu Calouste Gulbenkian

There are many museums in Lisbon but the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is known to be the best. Here you’ll find a fascinating array of both ancient and modern art from various periods throughout the years. From Oriental to Egyptian art, you’ll be able to browse more than 6,000 items whilst practising your best art critic pose.