When you think of ideal holiday destinations, Lisbon probably isn’t at the forefront of your mind, especially when you compare it to other capital cities in Europe.

Unlike Paris, it isn’t the city of l’amour. It doesn’t contain as many wonders of the world as Rome. And unlike London, it isn’t crammed wall-to-wall with museums and galleries.

And yet there’s a strong argument to be made that Lisbon, Portugal’s sunny coastal capital, is head and shoulders above all of those destinations.

Not convinced?

Then let us give you a few reasons why Lisbon is the finest travel destination in all of Europe.

1. It’s safe

So many capital cities are hotbeds of crime, their teeming population making it easy for the criminal element to hide in the crowds after they’ve preyed upon naïve tourists.

But not so in Lisbon. According to Property Lisbon, Portugal boasts some of the lowest crime rates in the world and has been ranked in the Top Five Most Peaceful Countries for four consecutive years.

A wander around Lisbon, then, is a journey around a truly safe haven.

2. Incomparable views

Lisbon is a city of hills and sunshine, and so it’s also a city of breath-taking views. Little beats clambering up one its many hills and watching the sunlight shimmer on the Tejo River.

The best view in all of Lisbon is on Christ the King. This towering statue is a miniature facsimile of Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer, though no less impressive.

On its viewing platform you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of all of Lisbon – truly a sight worth travelling for.

3. Amazing food

If you’re a fan of fish, then Lisbon has you covered. As a coastal city, it’s teeming with seafood restaurants offering the finest produce.

The tastiest of these eateries is Sea Me Peixaria Moderna, a contemporary restaurant offering a Portuguese/Japanese fusion menu, as well as fresh lobsters and crabs straight from the tank.

If you’re not a carnivore, then Lisbon can offer you an equally spectacular meal. The Organi Chiado is a prime case in point. Its plant-based menu changes daily, and is served alongside some of the highest quality wine in the city.

4. History

As with most European capitals today, historic buildings play a large part in Lisbon’s architectural makeup.

This is a city crammed with history and, thanks to a long period of invasions throughout its lifespan, its

architecture is more diverse than any other in Europe.

Standing next to homes built in the 20th and 21st century, you’ll find Moorish settlements, gothic cathedrals, large overbearing castles and masses of colourful terracotta tiles.

One of Lisbon’s architectural highlights is the Sao Jorge Castle, located in the freguesia of Santa Maria Maior. Thought to have been built by the Visigoths in the 5th century, this castle is a testament to the ingenuity of Lisbon’s former occupants. And as it stands at the peak of Lisbon’s highest hill, it offers a stunning view of the city.

We hope we’ve convinced you to visit Lisbon. What’s your favourite destination in Europe? Let us know in the comments below.