PORTUGAL - Europe by Eurail 2015: Touring Europe by Train - page 463

Spend at least one evening in Lisbon's famous nightlife district— Bairro Alto.
It can be reached via the Elevador da Gloria, which operates from the west
side of the Praça dos Restauradores at Calcada da Gloria. Dine in typical Por-
tuguese restaurants/music bars, called “Fado houses,” and listen to Fado (mean-
ing “fate”)—the plaintive, nostalgic, dramatic music of the fadista (Fado singer) that
is unique to the Portuguese. Lisbon has its own type of Fado, which is considered
to be more emotional and dramatic than that performed elsewhere.
Such Fado establishments are abundant in Lisbon, particularly in the Alfama and
Bairro Alto districts. One of our favorites is AdegaMesquita at Rua Diário de Notí-
cias, No. 107. Phone ahead for reservations: Tel: [phone]; Fax: [phone];
E-mail: [e-mail].
In Alfama on Largo do Chafariz de Dentro, visit Casa do Fado e da Guitarra
Portuguesa, the Fado museum. According to the tourist office, “It gives an insight
and enables one to better understand the development, identity, and soul of this
incomparable form of urban musical expression that was born in Lisbon in the 19th
century.” Hours: 1000-1800 daily (last entry at 1730), closed Monday. Tel: 21 882
34 70. Visit www.museudofado.pt .
Day Excursions
Cascais and Estoril, resort towns along the beautiful beaches of Costa do Estoril,
are frequented by celebrities, royalty, and just plain folk. Coimbra reveals Por-
tugal's academic nature. This fine old university town was at one time the capital
of Portugal. Setúbal is a city of beautiful beaches, hillside castles, and excellent
seafood. Castle buffs and romantics will enjoy Sintra, with its ancient castles and
nearby Cape Roca, the westernmost point of Europe.
Day Excursion to
Cascais and Estoril
Lisbon's Riviera
Depart from Lisbon Cais do Sodré Station
Distance by Train: 16 miles (26 km)
Average Train Time: 30 minutes
City Dialing Code: 21