Lisbon is known as the white city or the city of light. It is also a city of contrasts combining some of the most modern architectural structures in the world with richly decorated palaces, picturesque renaissance churches, castles, monasteries, convents and impressive 18th century buildings and avenues.

All this sits atop seven hills and faces the majestic Tagus River.

For many years Lisbon appeared to have lost its position as one of the cultural capitals of Europe but in recent times it has experience an awakening. More and more visitors are realising what delights the city has to offer with something different around every corner.

In the 1990s the city fathers invested in the future by promoting Expo 98. This impressive scheme not only regenerated a run down part of the city, it also brought Lisbon back into the global limelight.  Expo 98 was also the catalyst for the development of a modern transport infrastructure that allows direct access by land, sea and air from anywhere in the world.