Cidade Baixa, Lisbon

A main shopping and banking district, the pedestrianized Cidade Baixa, houses hundreds of stores and restaurants. Completely redesigned and reconstructed after the 1755 earthquake that devastated a large part of the city, this neighborhood boasts a grid layout that remains a living testimony to the Enlightenment ideas held dear by the 18th century city planners. Known locally as Lower Town, the elegant district represents one of the finest examples of earthquake-resistant architecture, featuring symmetrical wood lattices and inter-terrace walls designed for extra stability and fire containment. Explore the neighborhood by riding a tram, or watch the world go by from one of many alfresco cafes lining the area's neat streets. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Cidade Baixa by using our Lisbon online day trip planner.