One of the safest urban centers in Western Europe is Lisbon, Portugal. When traveling to Europe, tourists oftentimes worry about being pick-pocketed while in major metropolises. Lisbon has the least amount of violent crime compared to other major European metropolises, and really has the best value for your money. You can stay in the most stylish hotels in Lisbon for an affordable amount.
You will have lots of exploring opportunities in and around this lively urban center, the opportunities of getting bored are slim to none. If you are looking for a close destination from the United States, Lisbon is the place for you. Within a 2 hour flight from any other major European city, its convenient location will allow you a short weekend away or quick vacation.
Blessed with being the only European capital located so close to sandy beaches and miles of dune-backed sands, locals and tourists alike can come to gaze at the sea, delight in a refreshing day in the sun or enjoy water activities such as swimming and surfboarding. The climate in Lisbon is the best in Europe, usually warm even in the winter, much warmer than other major cities in Europe where the weather can be freezing. This enables you to revel in the gorgeous beaches 20 minutes outside of the city known for world-famous surf riding are Guincho and Costa da Caparic, where the long stretches of sand along the coast seem to never end.
If you are a multi-faceted traveler that can appreciate the beauty of spending a day at the ocean, basking in the warm sun and laying on the endless stretch of sand then spending your evenings under the starry night, taking in the sights and sounds of one of the most lively, vibrant metropolises in Western Europe. You can experience the rich, cultural treasures as you are walking down the attractively lined cobble stone streets.
The best area for shopping in Lisbon is Rua Augusta. The main pedestrian street in the city, it features outside eateries and coffee shops, international shops and peddlers and vendors doing anything they can to get your attention and sell you t shirts and souvenirs for your loved ones back home. As you walk through the amazing architecture, the streets are all lined with tile mosaic pavements, the ideal setting for upscale shopping.
Whatever brings you to Lisbon, you will never run out of things to do in this coastal, historical capital that creates a beautiful setting for travelers and sightseers.