Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, has always been one of the more affordable capitals in Europe. Couple this with its splendid setting, sunny climate and a compelling mixture of old world charms and hip nightlife, it has joined the top league of city break destinations. Here are some free things you can do while in this exciting city:

Jardim da Estrela is a beautiful garden with a kindergarten, a day center, two playgrounds, a bandstand, a kiosk run by the City Library, and a terrace café where locals can enjoy spending warm and sunny Portuguese afternoons, according to LikeALocalGuide.

Gulbenkian consists of a museum, an amphitheater and a garden. The best part however is that you can take a blanket and lay down near the lake with a book with ducks to see on a sunny day. Feira da Ladra literally means 'Thief Fair' and is the oldest market in Lisbon. It is a very popular fair with many different objects and things to see, so take your time and enjoy browsing in the fair.

Jardim do Principe Real has been one of the favourite spots among locals for more than a hundred years. Old men like to come to the garden to play cards, families come with their kids to play in the playground. Couples sit in the shade of a hundred year old cypress tree. On Saturdays, you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables at the Biological Products Market.

Wealthy Madeiran Joe Berardo's art collection at the Colecção Berardo allows you to get up close to see original works by the likes of Francis Bacon, Andy Warhol, Picasso, Dalí and Mark Rothko. The modern gallery in the suburb of Belém includes some of the biggest names in contemporary art and it is completely free, except for some temporary exhibits.