Blessed with excellent wine that is laughably affordable, a sophisticated dining scene that goes beyond the delicious Portuguese tart, terrific weather and a rich cultural heritage, perhaps Lisbon’s greatest assets are the warm, welcoming people who live there. Unpretentious and upbeat with a cosmopolitan sensibility, Lisboetas have much in common with their city.

With cheap flights from many nearby cities, Lisbon is a great weekend add-on to a longer European trip. If you have plenty of time to spare, there is much more to explore in Portugal, from the Douro River, the fairytale architecture of Sintra, charming winemaking regions and the breathtaking south coast beaches of the Algarve.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT?

Portugal has one of the warmest climates in Europe and during the summer months (June-August), temperatures often hit 40C. Many vibrant festivals and events are held during these peak tourist months. Spring and autumn (shoulder season) offer pleasant weather and good deals. Winter is mild, though unpredictable, with temperatures between 10C and 15C.

HOW DO I GET AROUND?

Lisbon’s public transport system is extensive, reliable and inexpensive. The subway runs from 6.30am until 1am, and buses crisscross the city and between downtown and the airport. An unlimited 24-hour public transport ticket costs €6 ($A8.50).

Riding the city’s tram network is an experience in itself, as the vintage trams navigate the hilly streets of Alfama and catch the breeze on the ride out to Belem’s monuments. Extensive queues for the trams can lead to long waits. Just jump in a taxi instead; they are cheap and distances are usually not too far from one neighbourhood to the next.

WHAT IS THE BEST NEIGHBOURHOOD TO STAY IN? CAN YOU RECOMMEND A GOOD HOTEL?

Baixa (pronounced “Baysha”), or downtown, is great as a base for first-time tourists. Close to the riverfront promenade and the swanky Avenida de Liberdade, and flanked by the squares of Rossio and Figueira, its streets are filled with historic buildings that have been converted into charming hotels and guesthouses. A wide selection of restaurants and cafes can be found here, as well as designer and local shopping.

Rossio Garden Hotel has a terrific location, while Hotel Avenida Palace boasts beautiful Belle Epoque-era architecture and recently renovated rooms.

IF I ONLY HAVE A COUPLE OF DAYS IN LISBON, WHAT IS UNMISSABLE?

Wander the squares and boulevards of Baixa or take a city tour and be guided through more than 4000 years of history in a couple of hours.

Tackle the steep incline of alleyways leading up through Alfama, the former Moorish part of the city, and you’ll be rewarded with stellar views over Lisbon. The history of the mighty hilltop castle, Castelo de Sao Jorge, tells the story of Portugal through the millennia.

Take a tram to Belem, where many of the city’s notable monuments are found, including the breathtaking Jeronimos Monastery, the Belem Tower, Belem Palace (official residence of the president of Portugal) and Discoveries Monument.

Drink local wine, feast on charcoal chicken, listen to Fado music and kick back in the spirit of relaxed Lisboetas.

WHAT SHOULD I BUY IN LISBON?

Popular souvenirs include cork products, decorative ceramic tiles and excellent local wine (many labels are available only in Portugal). For vintage clothing, handmade crafts and unique bits and pieces, amble around the 800-year-old flea market held behind the Sao Vicente de Fora Church.

Recognised for its gourmet culture, many Lisbon shops sell local food and alcoholic beverages that are snapped up by tourists. Canned sardines and salmon in retro design packaging is popular, for example, as are award-winning olive oils and cheeses. Shop at dozens of gourmet outlets at Mercado da Ribeiro, Lisbon’s expansive produce market, and the adjacent TimeOut Market Lisboa.

If you run out of time to buy things in the city, pray for a flight delay: the fabulous shops at Lisbon Airport will keep you occupied until wheels up.

WHERE DO I FIND THE BEST PORTUGUESE TARTS?

Delicious Portuguese egg custard tart pastries, known as pastel de nata, are a good enough reason to plan a trip to Lisbon. You’ll find them everywhere, from multi-packs sold in supermarkets to homemade ones in cafes and bistros around town. Popular opinion says the best are made by the bakers at Pasteis de Belem, though be prepared to queue.

WHERE’S THE BEST NIGHT LIFE?

Lisbon night life does not disappoint, with cosy wine bars, live music venues and late-night clubs found all over town. Going out at night to eat, drink, dance and socialise is part of local culture.

The waterfront dock area between Baixa and Belem, known as Docas, is home to a strip of good restaurants as well as a few bars and clubs. This family-friendly area is ideal for a sunset drink or a bite to eat overlooking a yacht marina with views of the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Bairro Alto is a lively district of bars, clubs and restaurants. Weekend nights resemble New Year’s Eve all year round, with drinkers spilling out on to the cobblestone streets and hordes of tourists milling about. Many bars offer local wine and shots for €1 each.

For a classier vibe, check out the new hotspot, Park Bar. Offering one of the best rooftop terraces in town, this garden bar sits atop a carpark. Chilled sunset drinks give way to an energetic live music and DJ scene in the evenings.

While it can be fun to check out for a few hours, visitors are best advised not to stay in a hotel or apartment along the narrow streets of Bairro Alto if they are sensitive to noise.

When the Bairro Alto bars close, the party people hop in cabs to Rua Nova do Carvalho, known as Pink Street. This former red-light district has become trendy of late, with nightclubs and wine bars growing in popularity.