About Lisbon

Lisbon is built on hills looking over the River Tagus. Modern and cosmopolitan, it is a great centre of culture and tourism, and a pleasure to discover on foot. Add to that its cultural diversity, laid-back feel and architectural time warp, and you have one of the most enjoyable cities in Europe. Clear skies and the softness of its light are an integral part of the charm of this city. Seen from the river - one of the city's many great viewpoints - Lisbon is an impressionist picture of low-rise ochre and pastel, punctuated by church towers and domes. Lisbon is a melting pot of cultures, flavours and spices. The quality of food in general, and of fish in particular, are always referred as special. Several neighbourhoods offer interesting shopping areas with a local flavour. Large, modern shopping malls with wide opening hours and easy access by public transport are also very popular. One of the traditional centres of Lisbon's nightlife is Bairro Alto, with its fado houses, restaurants and dozens of bars and clubs. After the riverside area was remodelled for Expo98, night life in Lisbon gained a new dimension on both the east and west fronts. Those who want to get away from the city centre, however, can use the modern railway connections to Sintra or to Estoril and Cascais, about 30 km away, where they will be greeted by beautiful landscapes, charming urban settings, and pleasant restaurants and bars. Lisbon hosts a large number of visitors every year, for either business or leisure. Its offer of hotels is very strong in all price ranges, including some charming traditional units as well as large ones from most international chains.

Climate

Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate that is strongly influenced by the Gulf Stream, giving it one of the mildest climates in Europe. Summer lasts until the end of September and the weather during this period is therefore pleasantly warm. Average temperatures: 17 – 26°C (62 – 79°F). Light clothing is suitable with somewhat warmer clothing for the evening. For further and more precise information please visit the Nacional Institute of Meteorology.

Currency

The official currency of Portugal is the Euro (€). Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels, shops and restaurants. Traveller’s cheques and currency can be changed at hotels or at a bank – these are open Monday to Friday from 08.30 to 15.00 h. Automatic changing and cash dispensing machines linked to international networks are also widely available. 

Tax / Tipping

Tipping is optional, but normally 10% is customary in taxis, restaurants and bars.

Electricity

European type 2 pin sockets with 220 volts AC at 50 cycles are used. 

Language

The national language of Portugal is Portuguese, although English and Spanish are widely spoken. The official language of the Conference is English. No simultaneous translation will be provided.

Time Zone

Mainland Portugal is 1 hour behind Central European Time [CET] (GMT/UTC + 00:00 hour). 

Restaurants

Breakfast is normally served between 7.30 and 10.00 h, lunch from 12.30 to 15.00 h, and dinner from 19.30 to 22.00 h. Due to the city’s proximity to the sea, the local gastronomy includes delicious fish and shellfish dishes.

Shopping

Shops typically open from 09.00 to 13.00 h and from 15.00 to 19.00 h (working days). On Saturdays, most shops close at 13.00 h. Fine leather goods, lead crystal ware, porcelain, vintage wines, golden and silver filigree, pottery and specialist textiles are considered excellent buys in Portugal.

Transportation

Public Transport in Lisbon has recently undergone major improvements and includes underground, suburban trains and ferries, low floor buses and light rail, while maintaining in operation a small set of old tramway lines, among which the famous line 28, one of the icons of the city. Day and Multi-day passes are available to enjoy the full public transport network without hassle.

For more information about Lisbon and tips on what to see, please visit the Tourism Bureau website.