As the summer comes creeping to an end, a european city break is the perfect cure to postpone those winter blues. Lisbon is increasingly becoming one of the #1 destinations for that quick holiday fix with beaches, beautiful food and curious sights to see.

Arrivals

Once you ve arrived at the airport the best way to get into the city centre is via the metro. The taxi queue is always long and traffic can be a total nightmare. Buy a re-usable metro card (like a London oyster card) and use this for the duration of your stay - cheap and without a doubt the best way to get around hassle-free.

Where to stay

Lisbon has seriously raised the bar when it comes to places to stay. Whether you re looking for a 5 star boutique hotel or a cheap and cheerful hostel, you ll have plenty of options to choose from.

Bairro Alto Hotel is a stylish 5 star boutique hotel in the historical district of Lisbon. It's sleek, luxurious rooms and rooftop views offer that wow feeling, to remind yourself you are truly spoiled. For some local flavour, check out the hotel restaurant, Flores do Bairro, which serves delicious traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Lisbon Lounge Hostel is a great option if you re travelling on a budget. Owned by a group of Portuguese artists, you can expect funky decor and a homely feel at very reasonable prices. If you re feeling particularly social you have the choice of staying in a mixed dorm room or standard twin room options. Whichever you choose, you ll be in for a fun experience!

Entertainment

Lisbon has a vast majority of bars, restaurants and clubs to choose from making it hard to decide the right spot. Wherever the night takes you, you re bound to fall in love with Lisbon's signature buzzing alfresco atmosphere.

The new Time Out food court at Mercado da Ribeira Lisbon's biggest fresh food market has become a firm favourite among Lisboans. The first permanent foodie venture for Time Out, the market hosts a total of 35 kiosks selling regional specialities, including Azeit o sheep's cheese, plates of ham from the Alentejo, and custard tarts from award-winning cafe Aloma. Visitors are bound to find something unique here, but be warned - there may be a wait for a table if in a big group!

What about fine dining? Head to Belcanto, a traditional Portuguese restaurant operating since 1958. Since it s opening, Belcanto has been awarded 2 michelin stars and has won over the local clientele. With only 10 tables up for grabs, reservations are essential.

If you re up for dancing off that dinner, Musicbox under the brick arches on Rua Nova do Carvalho is one of Lisbon s hottest dance clubs. Prepare to get sweaty and dance the night away to electro, house, rock and if you re lucky, a live gig from an up-and-coming band. If you re looking for a more slick vibe, then head to the super-stylish Lux Club. Part owned by John Malkovich, this ice-cool club hosts big name dj s spinning house and electro.