Lisbon

The Portuguese capital is off-limits to some nationalities, but essential travellers can still hop on a tram to take in the city’s charms

-  TOM OTLEY

1 MOSTEIRO SAO VICENTE

DE FORA At time of press, Lisbon and all of Portugal were under what the government calls “a state of contingency.” Arrivals are permitted from a number of countries, but will be subject to temperature screening at airports and ports. Those from outside those designated countries are only permitted to travel to Portugal for essential purposes and require proof of a negative COVID-19 test carried out 72 hours prior to departure. Further information is available at pt.usembassy.gov.

Lisbon isn’t large – counting suburbs, the population is only 600,000 – but the city’s centre is hilly, and with crowds of visitors, social distancing gets harder.

Use public transport to save your feet – the metro is excellent but the trams are best, taking you to Belem (your third stop), or from Baixa all the way to Campo de Ourique, passing through the historic districts of Graca and Alfama and making light of the hills (tram 28). If you are staying longer, the 24 hour Lisbon card offers discounts on attractions as well as covering your travels around the city for €19 ($22.50).

You can catch the 28 tram after your first stop, the Mosteiro Sao Vicente de Fora. Founded in 1147, this monastery houses the remains of several Portuguese kings, as well as beautiful frescoed rooms, chapels and galleries. It also has a rooftop with a stunning view over the Tagus River and the city. Largo de Sao Vicente; admission €5 ($6).

2 PRACO DO COMERCIO