These awards were presented at the 31st edition of the World Travel Awards, popularly known as the “Tourism Oscars”, held this Sunday in Madeira, more specifically in Funchal.
Carlos Moedas, Mayor of Lisbon, praised the importance of this recognition, stating that the city symbolises “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 leading destination worldwide.
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 noted the historical and cultural legacy that reflects the passage of different civilisations and key moments in Portuguese history. Highlights include the Jerónimos Monastery, the Belém Tower, the Cultural Landscape of Sintra and the Royal Building of Mafra, all classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Fado, recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is also part of this unique identity.
Lisbon continues to stand out as a top choice for short breaks, combining direct flights from several international cities, mild weather all year round, a wide cultural offering and easy access. This set of factors continues to attract visitors from all over the world, cementing its position as the World’s Best City Break Destination for the second year.
Lisbon won the World’s Best City Break Destination award for the first time in 2017.
The World Travel Awards ceremony, in which Lisbon was honoured for the first time with the World’s Best City Break Destination award, took place on December 10, 2017, in Vietnam. Created in 1993, the World Travel Awards recognise the best examples of good practice in the tourism sector worldwide.
Voting was carried out by the public and by more than 200,000 tourism professionals from 160 countries.
According to the organisation, this distinction was awarded to the Portuguese capital for its appeal and outstanding offering for short stays.
It’s worth remembering that this was the third time Lisbon received similar recognition.
What to do in Lisbon during a short stay
There are plenty of social and leisure activities to enjoy in Lisbon. As a result, this city offers many great options that you can only find in the Portuguese capital.
Walking around is one of them. Areas such as the classic Baixa Pombalina, the traditional neighbourhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, the modern Parque das Nações or the Belém area are just a few examples. A visit to São Jorge Castle is recommended. And very close by are the Graça and Senhora do Monte viewpoints, which offer unique panoramic views over the city.
It’s also worth taking a ride on tram 28. It’s a very traditional and fun way to get to know some of Lisbon’s neighbourhoods. When it comes to food, there are countless excellent options available. Above all, the important thing is to remember to eat a pastel de nata (or more)!
The highlight of a stay in Lisbon
Many people who visit Lisbon also agree that one of the best things to do is a boat trip—whether it’s a romantic cruise at sunset, a relaxed cultural cruise or a lively party on board. Some even manage to join a regatta!
We often hear opinions saying that a boat trip in Lisbon is a must. That’s why there are so many descriptions of how people were amazed by the experience of sailing on the Tagus River, and comments that this trip was the highlight of their visit. With that in mind , if you’re planning a visit to Lisbon and deciding what to do, follow this advice: include one of these experiences on your list. You won’t regret it!
