Over 50 years ago, Lisbon agreed to host a group of tall ships that were racing to mark the end of the great days of sail. But it wasn’t the end – the race happened again and again. Lisbon stayed involved, restored its own tall ship (Creoula) and set up its own sail training organisation (Aporvela). Now you have a chance to see Europe’s westernmost city host the tall ships in its own style – seeped in history.
Lisbon will host The Tall Ships Races 2012 from the 19th to the 22nd of July. Be sure not to miss this nautical party in the most western Atlantic capital of Europe!
You can join either LN819 into Lisbon or LN820 out of Lisbon. While in the city you will experience the parties and festivities associated with The Tall Ships Races and see some of the most spectacular historic sailing ships still in existence.
Legend has it that Lisboa was founded by Ulysses. The name comes from "Olissipo", which has its origins in the Phoenician words "Allis Ubbo", meaning "enchanting port".
Lisbon was in fact founded by the Phoenicians but through the years it has been influenced by the Romans, the Goths and the Moors before she was captured by Afonso I, the first king of Portugal. Christian ever since, the city has not yet lost her atmosphere of cultural exchange and artistic encounter and you will definitely experience that during the Tall Ships Races Lisbon 2012, for the ships will be moored in a new and modern quay alongside Alfama, the most typical Lisbon neighborhood.
From Alfama you can stroll up to the Castle through narrow streets, stop off at one of the viewpoints overlooking the river, visit the shopping area of Baixa and Chiado, take a bus to Belém and do some sightseeing of the historical monuments related to Portuguese Navigation like the Monastery of Jerónimos and the Tower of Belem – be sure not to miss the typical pastry of Belem (Pastel de Belém). Or, if you prefer nightlife, be sure to visit the Bairro Alto, a hotspot for both fado (a Lisbon "sad" song) and bustling modern pubs and clubs.