What to do in Lisbon when it rains
Although Lisbon is known for being the sunny capital of Europe, it isn't without its days. During winter, and even spring, there might be a rainy day or two. If you are visiting Lisbon and it suddenly starts raining fear not, there is a lot to do in Lisbon when it rains. If you have to postpone your outting to one of the beaches near the city check the alternatives that we suggest.
1. Visit Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
This was the last residence of the Portuguese Royal family in Lisbon. It was built after King D. José I's palace in Terreiro do Paço was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. The hill in Ajuda remained intact so the moanrch decided it would be safer to build a palace on the site.
Today, the palace is used as both an official venue for state events and a museum. You can visit two of its floors, which constitute an impressive museum of decorative arts ranging from the 15th century to the 20th century. Watch out for the dinner service, which is one of the few in Europe that remains intact.
Did you know that...?
The palace remains unfinished to this day. The original plans for the palace included at least two more wings, which would make it one of the biggest royal palaces in Europe. The plans were abandoned due to the French Invasions and only now were they taken up again. The new wing will be finished by 2020 and will be home to the Portuguese crown jewels.
2.
This activity is similar to paintball in its objective, but without the traditional paint balls. In Laser Tag, electronic markers trigger infrared beams (which are painless, and not harmful) that activate infrared sensitive markers in your suit. The goal is to eliminate the opposing players and, because all devices emit sounds and lights that recreate an authentic battlefield environment, this activity will give you an adrenaline rush just as much as paintball. There are some outdoor versions of the sport but it is most commonly played inside.
Where:
Login Laser Tag - Armazém 3, R. Proletariado 2, 2790-138 Carnaxide
Fábrica 22 - Rua João Saraiva nº22, 1700-250 Lisboa
Did you know that...?
Laser Tag is How I Met Your Mother's character Barney Stinson's favourite sport.
3. Try an Escape Game
In the past two years, Lisbon saw a lot of "escape the room" games pop up. These soon became very popular among Lisbonites and tourists alike and they are a great option for when it's raining in Lisbon. There are many different types of Escape games in Lisbon. The themes are so varied that we are sure you will find the one for you. There's everything from games themed after Fernando Pessoa (Portuguese poet) to the Iluminatti and even Pablo Escobar.
Where:
Game Over - Rua de O Século 4B, 1200-435, Lisbon, Portugal
Escape Hunt - Rua dos Douradores, 13 1100-203 Lisbon, Portugal
4. Have you been to Sintra yet?
If Lisbon weather is not cooperating, have you considered leaving? Chances are it might not be raining in Sintra, for example. And this sure is a marvellous city to visit. You can take the train to the most romantic Portuguese city from Rossio and then start by having tea and scones at Café Saudade once you arrive. To know more about what to do in Sintra visit our guide.
