Jardim Botanico de Lisboa (Botanical Garden of Lisbon), Lisbon

Hidden from the bustling streets, the expansive botanical gardens, covering an impressive 4 hectares (10 acres), offer a verdant sanctuary where one can escape the city's commotion and find tranquility. Embarking on a journey through this well-maintained oasis is well worth the entrance fee, as visitors meander along winding paths adorned with lush tropical trees. Descending from the main entrance towards Rua da Alegria, a captivating avenue of majestic palm trees creates a magnificent connection between the garden's two levels.

During the golden age of exploration, Portuguese adventurers introduced numerous plant species to Europe, and these gardens, designed between 1858-78, serve as a vibrant testament to their legacy. Boasting an impressive collection of twenty thousand meticulously labeled species from across the globe, the gardens are a treasure trove of botanical diversity. As visitors stroll along shaded pathways, they will encounter captivating sights such as the "Lugartagis" greenhouse, dedicated to butterfly breeding.

Within the gardens, one can also explore the National Museum of Natural History and Science (or MUHNAC), an esteemed institution housing comprehensive collections spanning botany, zoology, anthropology, geology, and paleontology. Temporary exhibitions, including showcases on topics like dinosaurs, further enhance the museum's offerings. Additionally, visitors can marvel at a range of scientific instruments dating from the 16th to the 20th century, immersing themselves in the history of scientific exploration. The museum also hosts engaging and child-friendly programs that provide hands-on demonstrations of fundamental scientific principles.