Lisbon, more accessible than ever for those in the north of England

Getting to know the Portuguese capital has never been easier for those living in the north of England, with Ryanair adding two more weekly flights from Manchester to Lisbon this summer, upping their number of flights to the capital to four per week. This increase, together with the current 14 weekly flights available by TAP Portugal from Manchester and easyJet's four flights a week from Liverpool, means a weekend city hop or a longer beach break has never been simpler to arrange.
 
A popular year-round destination due to its pleasant climate, sea breezes and extraordinary history, Lisbon is just over a two-hour flight from the UK and it is not only northerners who benefit from excellent access to the city. British Airways, TAP Portugal, easyJet and Ryanair operate over 120 weekly flights to the Portuguese capital from Edinburgh, London and Bristol. Lisbon Portela Airport is the main international gateway to Portugal and is situated about 20 minutes' drive to the north of the city.
 
Lisbon occupies around an area of 33 square miles, it is surprisingly easy to travel around by foot or by public transport. A great option for travellers who are time-poor and budget savvy, is the Lisboa Card which is available in 24-, 48- and 72-hour denominations and offers free travel on public transport, including the Metropolitano de Lisboa (metro), buses, trams and lifts run by the Carris public transport company. It also gives access to the Rossio-Sintra and Cascais-Cais do Sodré train lines as well as free or discounted entry to 26 museums and places of interest.
 
The stunning two UNESCO World Heritage sites Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and Torre de Belém, and the Lisbon's City Museum are some of the attractions which are free to card holders and can be purchased at Turismo de Lisboa tourist offices or online at askmelisboa.com.
 
The good news for travellers is that according to the Post Office's 2014 City Costs Barometer, Lisbon ranks as the most affordable city break destination in the Eurozone and with its many districts offering free or inexpensive entry to their cultural attractions, it is possible to see a lot and spend a little.
 
For more information on Lisbon visit visitlisboa.com.