2 Best Sights in Avenidas Novas, Lisbon

It takes a full day to explore this deservedly popular and well-maintained zoo, which is home to more than 3,000 animals from more than 330 species. The grounds are huge, but you can leap aboard a cable car to whiz from one attraction to another. If you don't have a head for heights, a miniature train (extra fee) trundles around the gardens. You'll also find a petting zoo; twice-daily animal shows featuring parrots, pelicans, dolphins, sea lions, reptiles, or lemurs; and a few cafés and picnic areas.

Way off the beaten path and far from the city center, this palace by the modern district of Benfica and on the edge of Parque Florestal de Monsanto is one of Lisbon’s most beautiful buildings. Built in 1670, it’s known for some of the finest examples of Portuguese tile panels, both inside the palace and outside around the garden. It's tricky to reach by public transportation, but a taxi from the Jardim Zoológico metro stop, about a mile away, will be quick and inexpensive.