Experience the best of Almada

Almada lies on the south bank of the Tagus, facing Lisbon across the river, and is best known for the Cristo Rei, a 110-metre statue of Christ with open arms, completed in 1959. A lift takes visitors up to a viewing platform on its pedestal, from which Lisbon and the 25 de Abril Bridge spread out below. Almada Velha, the old quarter on the ridge above, has narrow streets and viewpoints over the river.

At Cacilhas, the ferry quay, boats cross the Tagus to Lisbon in about ten minutes, and the waterfront is lined with fish restaurants. To the south-west the municipality includes the Costa da Caparica, a long stretch of Atlantic beach backed by dunes and low cliffs. The Arrábida hills, with their sheltered coves, lie farther south.

Grilled fish and shellfish at Cacilhas, fresh from the harbour and served with a jug of cold white wine, are the best-known local pleasure. The ferry ride itself is part of the day. Summer brings warm days and sea breezes on the Atlantic side, while spring is good for walking the hills.