WABF 2027 Lisbon

Culture

Lisbon is a city where history is lived in rather than only visited. Its historic quarters, Alfama, Chiado, Bairro Alto and Belém, are best explored on foot or aboard the iconic Tram 28, which winds through some of the oldest parts of the city. Fado, Portugal’s traditional melancholic music, can still be heard in small restaurants across Alfama and Mouraria, and is itself recognised by UNESCO as part of the world’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Two of Lisbon’s landmarks, the Torre de Belém and the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, commemorating the Age of Discoveries when Portuguese navigators set sail from this very stretch of river. Elsewhere, the Castelo de São Jorge offers panoramic views over the city, and Lisbon’s many miradouros (viewpoints) are a favourite way for locals and visitors alike to watch the sun set over the rooftops.

Food plays a central role in Portuguese culture. Delegates should not leave without trying pastéis de nata (custard tarts), fresh seafood and grilled fish, bacalhau (salted cod, prepared in hundreds of different ways), and a glass of Portuguese wine.

Practical information

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Portuguese; English is widely spoken, particularly in academic and tourism settings
• Plug type: Type C/F (European standard, 230V)
• Safety: Lisbon is generally considered a safe city for visitors; usual city-centre precautions apply

Weather in September

Lisbon is one of the sunniest capitals in mainland Europe, averaging around 2,800 hours of sunshine a year. September falls in the city’s pleasant shoulder season: expect warm, mostly dry days with plenty of sunshine, easing gradually from the peak of summer.

Typical daytime highs: 24–27°C (75–81°F)

Typical overnight lows: 17–19°C (63–66°F)

Beyond Lisbon

Delegates with time to extend their stay are encouraged to visit Sintra, a fairy-tale hillside town of palaces and gardens less than 40 minutes from Lisbon by train, or Cascais, a relaxed coastal town along the same line, ideal for a half-day by the sea.

For any enquiries regarding this edition of the Forum, please contact the Organising Committee.