These awards were presented at the 31st edition of the World Travel Awards, popularly known as the “Oscars of Tourism”, which took place this Sunday in Madeira, more precisely in Funchal.
Carlos Moedas, mayor of Lisbon, praised the importance of this recognition, saying that the city symbolizes “authenticity, excellence and modernity”. According to the mayor, these distinctions highlight Lisbon’s uniqueness, where historical and cultural richness come together. They also reinforce the capital’s commitment to preserving its heritage and its position as a global reference destination.
In a statement, the Lisbon Tourism Association highlighted the efforts made in recent years to preserve and enhance the city’s cultural heritage. It also highlighted the historical and cultural heritage that reflects the passage of various civilizations and remarkable episodes in Portuguese history. Among the highlights are the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower, the Cultural Landscape of Sintra and the Royal Building of Mafra, all classified as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Fado, recognized as Intangible Heritage of Humanity, is also part of this unique identity.
Lisbon has reaffirmed itself as a privileged choice for short breaks, combining direct flights from several international cities, a mild climate all year round, a vast cultural offer and easy access. This combination of factors continues to attract visitors from all over the world, consolidating its position as the World’s Best City Break Destination for the second year.
Lisbon won the Best City Break Destination in the World award for the first time in 2017
The World Travel Awards ceremony, in which Lisbon was honored for the first time with the World’s Best Destination Award for City Break, took place on December 10th in Vietnam. Created in 1993, the World Travel Awards recognized the best examples of good practice in the tourism sector on a global scale.
The vote was carried out by the public and more than 200,000 tourism professionals from 160 countries.
According to the organization, this distinction was awarded to the Portuguese capital for its attractiveness and excellent offer in terms of short-term stays.
It’s worth remembering that this is the third time Lisbon has received similar recognition.
Things to do in Lisbon during a short stay
There are many social and leisure activities that can be enjoyed in Lisbon. As a result, the city has many good options that can only be found in the Portuguese capital.
Walking is one of them. In the center, areas such as the classic Baixa Pombalina or the traditional neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto are mandatory. A visit to the São Jorge’s Castle is also recommended. And very close are the viewpoints of Graça and Senhora do Monte that provide unique panoramic views of the city. A bit further away, the area of Belém with its monuments or the more modern Parque das Nações are also another great examples.
It is also recommended a tour on the historical tram 28. This is a very traditional and fun way to get to know some of Lisbon’s neighborhoods. From the gastronomic point of view, there are numerous and excellent options available. Important to remember is a “must do” – try one custard tart (or more)!
The highlight of the stay in Lisbon
It is also recognized by many who visit Lisbon that one of the best things to do is take a boat trip. Whether it’s a romantic tour in the sunset, a relaxed cultural tour or a lively party on board. Some can even embark on a regatta!
We often hear opinions that a boat tour in Lisbon is a “must do”. Also, those who have experienced it got astonished with the sailing in the Tagus river. Comments that this tour was the highlight of the visit are also very common. So if you are planning a visit to Lisbon and decide what to do… Take this advice: include one of these experiences on your list. You will not regret it!
