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Lisbon Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Lisbon. We've got 595 adventures going to Lisbon, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 32 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the largest number of tour departures.

250+ Lisbon tour packages with 8,785 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Wonders of Portugal

A wonderful Tour Will definitely book again

• Food & Culinary
• Wine tasting

Best of Lisbon Tour (with Sintra, Évora and Cascais) - 5 Days in Portugal

Our Portuguese adventure with Portugal Travel Center and Tourradar was a delightful tapestry of culture, coastlines, and history. Lisbon's Fado-filled alleys set the stage, Cascais offered a coastal escape, and Évora's historic charm and wine-tasting sealed the experience. Seamless organization and an expert guide made this journey unforgettable—a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion. Obrigado for the memories!

Tour was fantastic, Livingtours tour organisers are very professional and very knowledgeable tour guides & highly professional staff. I thoroughly enjoyed my trip and would highly recommended Living tours for travel enthusiastics out there.

• Coach / Bus

Highlights of Portugal

Our CEO Alexiane was amazing and gave suggestions for everyone in our group making sure we all had a good time despite one having a minor injury. The included activities were great and we had the opportunity to do choose other activities in the free time we had. Overall a great experience!

Southern Portugal Explorer

Christina was awesome and so nice!

• Hiking & Trekking

Hike the Rota Vicentina in Portugal

South of Portugal

This tour was so much more than I expected. The hotels were great especially the Villa Gale in Lagos. We had busy days and saw so much. There were only a few of us on my tour so Fernando, our driver, and Miguel, our guide, were flexible about doing independent things plus the regular tour. They were always willing to help and very sociable. I found Portugal to be a hidden gem and would love to return to spend more time in some areas.

Discovery of Portugal - 7 Days

The Vouchers we received stated that the language would be English. A lot more information could be provided by the guides in each language if the time wasn’t spent translating into one or more additional languages. 6 bridges tour could be replaced. More time in Cascais would be appreciated.

South of Spain with Lisbon

Amazing trip to Spain and Portugal. Best tour guides ever, Ana, Maria, Yolanda, and Sabrina were awesome. We loved Sabrina who spent the most time with us, taking care of every concern and need. Thank you guys for a wonderful and safe trip.

• Self-Guided Cycling

Lisbon - Sagres

Wonders Of South Portugal

• $50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

5 Day Lisbon including visit to Fatima, Nazare, Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Cascais & Estoril.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Lisbon and Fatima City Adventure

Portugal Real Food Adventure, featuring Galicia

As usual intrepid guided proved excellent in knowledge & helpfulness. Accomodations & transport all very good also.

Best of Portugal (11 Days)

First tour with a group larger than 15-17 people, still unsure I like the size (40+). That aside, Trafalgar certainly knows tourism and gave us many opportunities to really see and learn about Portugal. Our guide Daniel was extremely knowledgeable and provided insights and stories to illustrate what we were experiencing. All in all a good experience!

What people love about Lisbon Tours

We started our vacation in Lisbon, with 4 days of guided tours with Pedro. He was wonderful - always on time, so courteous, and a wealth of information. It would be hard to find someone with more knowledge of the history of his country. He shared so much detail about each of the sites we visited, and was able to answer any questions. If you get a chance to book a tour with Pedro, do it. You won’t be disappointed!

Tour was fantastic, Livingtours tour organisers are very professional and very knowledgeable tour guides & highly professional staff. I thoroughly enjoyed my trip and would highly recommended Living tours for travel enthusiastics out there.

Tours starting from Lisbon

• for 10 Days (54)
• for 2 Weeks (51)
• for 7 Days (38)
• for 3 Weeks (26)
• for 4 Weeks (5)
• to Europe (174)
• to Portugal (116)
• to Spain (18)
• Portugal Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Portugal Itineraries 2024/2025 (With Reviews)
• Discover the Best Portugal Vacation Packages 2024/2025

12 Best Lisbon Walking Tours: From Cobblestones to Castles

LOOKING FOR THE BEST WALKING TOUR LISBON HAS TO OFFER?

Look no further, as in this guide, I will outline the 12 best Lisbon walking tours. If you didn’t already know, Lisbon is known as the city of the seven hills.

I won’t sugarcoat it. As someone who has lived in Portugal since 2020, I know that the Lisbon hills are not for the faint of heart. But I also know that one of the best ways to really explore this magical city is by foot.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

The best Lisbon walking tour is this Best of Lisbon Private Walking Tour with a perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating.

Lisbon isn’t that big, and most of its iconic landmarks are quite close to one another. As a result, to truly enjoy the city’s magic, you should go on a Lisbon walking tour.

But remember, if you are planning on exploring Lisbon on foot, you’ll need a comfortable pair of walking shoes, as well as water, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat, if you plan on coming in the summer.

Is Lisbon walkable? Absolutely! And without further ado, let’s dive into the top Lisbon walking tours.

Top 3 Picks: Best Lisbon Walking Tours

Lisbon: Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Downtown Tour

→ Near-perfect 5⭐️ rating → Private walking tour

Lisbon Walking Tour With A Photographer – Morning Edition

→ Private photographer guide → Learn photography tips

Best of Lisbon Private Walking Tour

→ Get insider tips + several tour times → Private personalized experience

10 Best Lisbon Walking Tours

1. lisbon: alfama, bairro alto, and downtown private walking tour.

⭐️ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 3 hours |  🚶‍♀️ Check rates and availability

On this Lisbon: Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Downtown Walking Tour , you’ll get a close look at Lisbon’s heart and history.

This private tour is crafted just for you, ensuring a tailored experience. Start your journey in Alfama , an old district filled with character and charm. As you stroll through, you’ll notice a blend of time-worn buildings, each with its own story.

Deborah was a great guide with a real sense of humor. Her knowledge was vast and we covered a large number of sites on the tour. — REVIEWEE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The city center is next on the list, showcasing a harmonious mix of baroque and art deco designs. An interesting part of the tour is the ride on the Elevador da Glória. This historic train connects Baixa and Bairro Alto, two lively areas of the city.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this half-day Lisbon walking tour ensures you get a genuine feel of Lisbon’s essence, from its architectural gems to its vibrant neighborhoods.

Lisbon Walking Tours

2. lisbon portugal walking tour with a photographer.

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 3 hours |  🚶‍♀️ Check rates and availability

Discover Lisbon not just through its cobblestone streets but through the lens of a camera on the Lisbon Walking Tour with a Photographer – Morning Edition.

This private experience goes beyond a traditional city tour. Walk the picturesque streets, plazas, and vantage points of Graça, Mouraria, and Alfama with a professional photographer guiding you on how to frame the city’s magic.

Miguel is a talented photographer and a wonderful teacher. He will take you to amazing places to photograph. — MARK   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

As you navigate both the famed and hidden corners of the city, gain insights into photography techniques and how to bring out the best in your shots. And it’s not just about the photos—each step offers a snippet of Lisbon’s history and culture.

With the undivided attention of your private guide, this morning tour guarantees both breathtaking photos and a deeper connection with the enchanting city of Lisbon.

3. Best of Lisbon Private Walking Tour

Delve into Lisbon’s most enchanting corners on this Best of Lisbon Private Walking Tour.

With your personal guide, navigate the ancient streets of Alfama, marvel at the architectural beauty of the Santa Justa lift, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Bairro Alto , and enjoy sweeping views from the Graça viewpoint.

This tour was one of the highlights of our trip.  — CHERYL   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

As you journey through these iconic landmarks, you’ll get a comprehensive overview of Lisbon’s history and culture. Along the way, your private guide will also share insider tips about the best places to eat and hidden treasures in the city.

Choose a tour time that fits your schedule and enjoy the personal touch of a private guide, making your Lisbon experience truly memorable.

4. Lisbon Cultural Food and Wine Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 4 hours |  🚶‍♀️ Check rates and availability

Embark on a gastronomic journey on this Lisbon Cultural Food and Wine Walking Tour . Dive into the heart of Lisbon not just with your eyes and ears but also with your taste buds.

As you wander from downtown to the richly historic Mouraria district, your passionate foodie guide will share tales of the city while introducing you to an array of traditional delights.

Begin with the famed Portuguese Codfish Cake paired seamlessly with a glass of crisp Green Wine . As you eat, you’ll guide will explain the historical significance behind this pairing.

Bruno was an amazing guide, showing our group some off the beaten path food locations that would have been missed if not shown by a local. — JOSEPH   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Then, dive deeper into the city’s essence with a Bifana (classic pork sandwich) accompanied by a cold beer, and discover the lore of Portugal’s renowned Port wine. To round off your culinary adventure, toast with a traditional Ginjinha at an age-old bar, followed by a spread of cheese, ham, exotic snacks, and a sweet finale.

Ready your senses for 14 unique tastings that promise a true Lisbon experience, blending culture, history, and flavor.

5. Lisbon at Sunset: Petiscos, Food & Wine Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 3 hours |  🚶‍♀️ Check rates and availability

Experience the charm of Lisbon’s Bairro Alto neighborhood as the sun sets on this Lisbon At Sunset: Petiscos, Food & Wine Walking Tour . Join a group of no more than 10 food lovers and immerse yourself in a journey that marries history with gastronomy.

You’ll sample close to 15 distinct drinks and traditional petiscos . One highlight includes visiting a restaurant that was once a meeting spot during the Portuguese Colonial War. Here, you’ll discover the tale of the ‘little fish from the garden’ and its religious significance.

Jamie really knew his stuff. He stopped at a viewpoint for pics and explained a lot of history about Portugal — MAryAnn   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

All in all, you’ll stop at four different foodie spots, enjoying a special dish at each venue. With every bite and story, the golden hour paints a perfect backdrop, making your tour an unforgettable culinary experience.

6. Lisbon: Drunken History Walking Tour with Included Drinks

⭐️ Rating: 4.3 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 3 hours |  🚶‍♀️ Check rates and availability

Embark on a spirited adventure through the streets of Lisbon on this Drunken History Walking Tour . This isn’t any ordinary tour—it’s an experience blending the best of Lisbon’s nightlife with captivating tales from the past.

Kickstart the journey with a refreshing glass of wine. You’ll then navigate the labyrinth of streets, learning about the cheeky and sometimes scandalous lives of Lisbon’s iconic figures.

Anastasia and Daria were incredible. The local history, the stories, the friendships formed and the drinks enjoyed…it was a perfect first night in Lisbon. — REVIEWEE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Along with historical tales, you’ll also discover Lisbon’s renowned bars, sampling genuine ginjinha and sipping on authentic Portuguese cocktails. You’ll also learn about their origins and the stories behind them.

Guided by a local enthusiast, this tour allows you to uncover Lisbon’s hidden gems and its lesser-known stories. And once the tour is over, the night is still alive—so make sure to enjoy Lisbon’s nightlife. This is hands-down one of the best walks in Lisbon.

7. Lisbon Tram No. 28 Ride & Walking Tour

Embark on a vintage journey on this Lisbon Tram No. 28 Ride & Walking Tour.

First up, a ride up the hill on Lisbon’s iconic 28 tram , a ride that will showcase the city’s gorgeous panoramic views and the shimmering Tagus river below.

This was a great way to see Lisbon and get to ride the famous Tram line 28. Nuno has so much knowledge to share. — JENN   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Post tram adventure, you’ll make your way down on foot. If your visit falls on a Tuesday or Saturday, the lively pulse of Feira da Ladra , the city’s oldest flea market, awaits.

Other notable Lisbon walking routes include exploring the magnificent Sé de Lisboa , marveling at the Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora , and uncovering legends at the Panteão Nacional .

Conclude in Alfama’s labyrinthine alleys , where traditional Fado might serenade you in an intimate bar, marking the perfect end to your Lisbon afternoon adventure.

8. Lisbon: History, Stories, and Lifestyle Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ To u r time: 3 hours |  🚶‍♀️ Check rates and availability

Dive deep into Lisbon’s rich tapestry on this History, Stories, and Lifestyle Walking Tour. Your adventure starts in Bairro Alto, a testament to the city’s resilience after the great 1755 earthquake.

As you move along, the scenic garden of São Pedro de Alcântara offers panoramic views, while the lavish interiors of the São Roque Church dazzle with tales from the Baroque period. You’ll then journey downhill and let the historic Carmo convent tell stories of revolutions.

Mariana was great! She was very friendly and clearly new the city quite well. — RYAN   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Next, a tram ride will whisk you towards the Portas do Sol , unveiling the stunning Monastery of São Vicente de Fora and the mystique of the Alfama district —its winding streets, soulful Fado tunes, and local festivities await.

Your day concludes at the majestic Lisbon Cathedral , an emblem of architectural evolution, capping off your immersive Lisbon experience. One of the best walking tours in Lisbon Portugal, every step, every sight, and every story promises an unforgettable journey.

9. 3-Hour Guided Street Art Walking Tour of Lisbon

On this 3-Hour Guided Street Art Walking Tour, you’ll find that Lisbon’s tales aren’t just written in history books—they’re vividly displayed on walls, whispering the city’s soul and spirit.

Set off on a journey through neighborhoods where creativity knows no bounds. With your guide by your side, you’ll explore the narratives behind each mural, delving into the symbolism, history, and techniques employed by the artists.

So glad we did this! Got a whole new perspective on Lisbon and saw many areas that we likely would not have ventured to otherwise. — KIMBERLY   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

What makes this private tour even more special is its adaptability. Focus on the street art styles or districts that fascinate you the most. You’re in control, and with a guide to navigate, there’s zero stress.

Whether you’re an art lover, a passionate photographer, or a curious traveler, this is one of the best walking tours Lisbon Portugal offers , as it promises a visual feast and a deeper appreciation of Lisbon’s artistry.

10. Family Tour: Genuine Lisbon

Designed with young explorers in mind, this 3-hour family walking tour ensures that the city’s magic is accessible and engaging for all ages.

Begin your family’s journey at Rossio Square before setting off to visit Castelo, Alfama & Mouraria . As you wander, your guide will transform tales of ancient landmarks into gripping stories that enchant younger minds, ensuring that history feels more like an adventure than a lesson.

The walking tour was great. It was a good pace with lots of breaks and fun activities for the kids along the way. — ERIN   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The leisurely pace of the tour ensures that even the tiniest of travelers can keep up, allowing the family to soak in the surroundings without any rush. In this immersive family tour , Lisbon becomes a delightful storybook filled with tales the whole family will love.

11. Best of Lisbon Guided Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 3-4 hours |  🚶‍♀️ Check rates and availability

Discover the heart of Lisbon on this Best of Lisbon Guided Walking Tour , where the city’s rich history and vibrant culture come alive with every step.

Kick off your journey in the age-old Moorish Alfama . The chic Chiado district is next, showcasing its timeless charm. As you venture into the stately Baixa, landmarks like the Carmo Church and the bustling Commerce Square await , each adding a new layer to Lisbon’s story.

We enjoyed the walking tour. Leslie our guide was very informative, super patient and fun. — MICH (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

But this tour isn’t just about landmarks. With your expert guide, you’ll visit the city’s cafes and boutiques, experiencing the true ‘Lisboa’ that locals cherish.

One of Lisbon best walks and perfect for first-time visitors, this Best of Lisbon Walking Tour is limited to just 14 individuals, ensuring a personalized and budget-friendly experience that covers the main Lisbon landmarks.

12. Free Lisbon Walking Tour – The Unmissable Lisbon

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 2.5 hours |  🚶‍♀️ Check rates and availability

Explore the best of what Lisbon has to offer on this comprehensive Lisbon Free Walking Tour , which serves as the perfect introduction to the city.

You’ll journey through Lisbon’s 3,000 years, seeing the iconic sights and gathering numerous local tips and recommendations. From the bustling streets of the center to hidden gems tucked away, you’re in for an authentic Lisbon experience.

This was a fantastic tour! Joao was funny and extremely knowledgeable. — JILIAN (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The best part? At the end of this free tour Lisbon experience, you decide what the experience was worth, aligning your contribution with your satisfaction and budget.

This Free Lisbon Tour promises not just sights but the very soul of Lisbon. It is hands-down one of the best free walking tour Lisbon has to offer.

What to Expect from A Lisbon Walking Tour

To truly enjoy your Lisbon walking tour, there are a couple of things that you need to take into consideration. The first is understanding your tour’s details: the key destinations, notable sights, and its overall duration. Ensure that it aligns well with your budget and you’ve set clear expectations for what you wish to explore and learn.

Next, Lisbon is known as the city of seven hills, which can be a problem, especially if you have young children or have specific mobility limitations. In these cases, it would be best to book a Lisbon tuk-tuk tour.

Remember to dress accordingly. Comfortable shoes are a non-negotiable regardless of the season. In the wintertime, bring warm clothes and rain protection; in the summer, protection is key, including sunglasses, sun protection, and a hat.

Lastly, the season can influence your tour experience. Summer often means larger groups, potentially making private tours a more appealing choice for some . Regardless of the specifics, remember to immerse yourself in the moment and, most importantly, enjoy every step.

FAQS About Lisbon Walking Tours

Should I do a walking tour in Lisbon?

Yes! The best way to really explore Lisbon is by foot. Walking tours offer an intimate and immersive experience, allowing you to discover hidden gems, soak in the local culture, and appreciate the city’s unique atmosphere at your own pace.

Can you walk around Lisbon in a day?

While it is recommended to take 2-3 days to explore Lisbon fully, you can certainly cover the main attractions in the city center in a day.

However, to delve deeper into Lisbon’s rich history and diverse neighborhoods, consider extending your stay or pairing a walking tour with a bus or boat tour for a more comprehensive experience.

Is it easy to walk in Lisbon?

Yes —it is easy to walk in Lisbon. But keep in mind that the city is quite hilly , so be sure to wear sturdy and comfortable shoes.

The reward for navigating its charming cobbled streets and alleys is the breathtaking views and unique architectural wonders that await you at every turn.

Is Porto or Lisbon more walkable?

Both Porto and Lisbon are renowned for their historic charm, but when it comes to walkability, Porto has a slight edge.

While Lisbon’s beauty is spread across seven hills, which can make walking quite demanding, Porto’s landscape, though hilly in parts, is more compact and manageable. Both cities boast narrow streets, scenic viewpoints, and riverfront areas, but Porto’s smaller size and dense historical center make it slightly more pedestrian-friendly for those eager to explore on foot.

Can you explore Lisbon on foot?

Absolutely —Lisbon is a wonderful city to explore on foot. Its compact size and pedestrian-friendly areas make it a joy to wander through the lively streets and stumble upon charming cafes, shops, and historical landmarks.

So is Lisbon good for walking? And is Lisbon a walkable city? YES! So make sure to bring a pair of comfy shoes and set off on your own Lisbon adventure by food.

More Lisbon Travel Articles

I can tell you firsthand that a Lisbon walking tour is one of the best ways to explore Lisbon — so I’m glad you landed on this blog article to book yours.

If you’re looking for more info on traveling to Lisbon, Portugal, check out these additional Lisbon travel guides:

• 20 Best Day Trips From Lisbon Portugal Europe: Incredible Places To Visit
• 15 Best Boat Tours In Lisbon: An Unforgettable Journey
• 8 Best Pastel De Nata Classes In Lisbon, Portugal
• 40 Best Sights In Lisbon: Exploring Portugal’s Capital
• Wine Tours In Lisbon: 12 Amazing Sip And Savor Experiences
• 15 Best Food Tour Lisbon: A Guide To The Best Eats In The City
• Visiting Lisbon? The Best Area To Stay In Lisbon

15 Best Lisbon Tours for the Ultimate Sightseeing Experience

• The Best Fado In Lisbon: 11 Fado Houses To Explore

Final Thoughts: Best Lisbon Walking Tours

A walking tour in Lisbon offers a splendid mix of history, culture, and breathtaking views. The key to fully enjoying this captivating journey lies in preparation—from understanding the tour dynamics to dressing aptly for the city’s terrain and climate.

Still, Don’t Know Which Tour to Choose?

Whether you opt for a private excursion, free walking tours Portugal or dive into the vibrant energy of larger groups, always prioritize comfort and curiosity. And don’t worry about the Lisbon walking tour cost — as there are many tours that fit different budgets.

⭐️ You can even try to do it yourself. You can put together your own Lisbon walking tours Google Maps option or even download a Lisbon walking tour map for a self-guided experience.

And as the cobblestone streets of Lisbon unfurl their stories, let yourself be drawn into their rhythm, ensuring an enjoyable and enriching experience.

Yvonne Ivanescu is the founder of Now in Portugal and Now in Rio Swim, an ethical and sustainable swimwear company. She is a writer, editor and marketer with over 10 years of experience.

Storytelling is her second nature and she wants to share the magic of Portugal with the rest of the world.

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The best Lisbon itinerary: a local’s recommendations

By: Author Brittany

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2023

Are you ready to fall in love with Lisbon? This city will woo you in the most unexpected ways. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself smiling as a Portuguese grandmother ( avó ) keeps an eye on you from her perch in the window. Stopping to smell the roses is fine, but in Lisbon you’ll stop to admire the intricate details and differences on every azulejo tile. Who needs chocolates when a freshly baked pastel de nata, topped with cinnamon and powdered sugar, melts in your mouth? Whether you’re spending 2 days in Lisbon, 3 days in Lisbon, or 5 days in Lisbon, I’ve got you covered! Each day of this Lisbon itinerary is broken down into different regions or interests, so you can pick and choose your own adventure.

Visiting for the first time? This place might just rock your world. It absolutely rocked mine. I fell head over heels for this “city with a sweet tooth” and six years after my first visit, I officially became a resident of Portugal ! Follow this Lisbon travel guide to experience the very best meals, activities, and– of course!–  desserts in Lisbon .

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting The Sweet Wanderlust by booking here! 

Where to stay in Lisbon

Corpo santo hotel .

If an emergency 24-hour/day ice cream machine, a daily Portuguese drink + snack happy hour, and an underground archaeological site pique your interest, you’ll love the Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel. It’s close to the Cais do Sodré station, which goes all the way to Cascais for easy beach access! 

Book your stay at Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel  here . 

Hotel Avenida Palace 

If you want to be treated like royalty in a hotel fit for a queen (or king), consider Hotel Avenida Palace your castle away from home. The breakfast is amazing, the staff is OTT attentive, the bar is well stocked (try the Porto tonic), and the location is unbeatable. The 19th century Belle Époque building is right next to Rossio Station– perfect for your day trip to Sintra!

Book your stay at Hotel Avenida Palace  here . 

Book your travel insurance for Lisbon

Before you take off for your Lisbon adventure, don’t forget to purchase travel insurance. I recommend SafetyWing , which I personally use for all of my travels! Sign up here . 

How to get from your airport to the hotel

Uber and Bolt are the top rideshare apps in Portugal and the metro goes straight from the airport to the city. Download Bolt  or Uber before you travel, or use one of the private transfer services below:

A few phrases to help you get around

Bom dia, boa tarde, boa noite – Good morning, good afternoon, good evening. Always use these phrases as greetings! 

Obrigada/ obrigado  – Thank you (end in -a if you are a female, and -o if you are a male). 

Fala inglês? – Do you speak English?

Se faz favor/ Por favor  – Please (can be used interchangeably)

Queria um pastel de nata se faz favor –  I would like one pastel de nata, please! (This is a VERY important phrase.)

The most fun 5-day Lisbon itinerary

Are you ready to have the most epic trip to Lisbon? I’ve compiled all of my favorite things about this city in a jam-packed Lisbon travel guide. I hope you slept on the plane because we’re going to hit the ground* running!

*The ground here is a mosaic of limestone cobblestones. It’s gorgeous, but it’s slippery. I write this post with a bruised elbow thanks to a slick cobblestone and the ground disappearing under my feet. Pack sturdy shoes and leave the high heels at home. 

Now that the disclaimer is out of the way, let’s get started! 

Visiting for the second, third, or fifteenth time? This blog post on off-the-beaten-path adventures in Lisbon will help you explore the city’s quirky side! 

Day 1: A day for the artists 

Calling all artistas ! T oday is a dreamy, azulejo tile-filled day, so put on a colorful outfit (yellow and pink pop against the blue tiles), lace up your comfy shoes, and head to Alfama for brunch. 

Dear Breakfast Alfama

Dear Breakfast is a Lisbon-based breakfast chain with three restaurants around the city. I’m obsessed with their eggs benedict and avocado toast with beet hummus, but you really can’t go wrong with anything you order.  

Dear Breakfast eggs benedict

If brunch is your love language, check out these 25+ places for brunch in Lisboa ! 

Cantinho da Sé

Save some room, though, because there’s another foodie stop right across the street. After breakfast, pop by Cantinho da Sé for a pastry to eat later. The flower-shaped pastry has a souffle-like texture, and it’s topped with a generous dollop of doce de leite. 

Paint Azulejos

Every Wednesday and Saturday at 10:30 am, Art of Azulejo hosts an azulejo painting class. You can sign up here and get $8 off your first experience with Fever when you use code BRITTANYK8574. The instructor, Caroline, walks you through a history of how azulejo tiles were made throughout the centuries, then sets you up for success with a stenciled tile for your first try.

Azulejo tile stencil

Once you get the hang of it, you can create your own tile or use one of her pre-made examples as a guide. I love my Lisbon tram and flower azulejos! 

Painted azulejo tile

Did you know that the tiles aren’t painted with paint?! Instead, you’ll use finely ground glass, which hardens to make these heat-proof tiles. Once they’re fired in the kiln, you can use your azulejos as hot plates, coasters, or hang them on the wall as art. 

Note: Your tiles need a couple of days to be fired– so don’t save this activity for the end of your trip!

Visit the Museu Nacional do Azulejo to see how the experts painted azulejos throughout history

Now that you’re feeling great about your artistic skills, come back down to earth with a visit to the Museu Nacional do Azulejo. Here, you’ll find tiles created by artists and artisans from the mid-15th century until the present day. The museum is in the former Convent of Madre Deus, and the Renaissance choir room is a stunning look into Portuguese history. 

Before you go, download the app on Google Play (Android)  or iTunes (iOS)  for the full experience. 

The museum also offers tile painting classes on Sunday at 2 pm. 

Eat a small lunch

After visiting the museum, head back into town for a little lunch– emphasis on little! Dinner’s a big one tonight, so I recommend opting for something light. Fábrica da Nata offers several different menus, where you can have something savory, a drink, and a pastel de nata for less than €5.

Alternatively, you can go for the famous pork steak sandwich at As Bifanas do Afonso. Top your bifana with mustard and/or hot sauce and pair it with a beer or vinho verde (green wine) from the tap. 

Street art tour

This morning, you learned about an art form that came to Portugal in the 15th century. Now, you can experience the ever-changing street art scene. After the revolution in 1974, street artists came out in droves to cover the city in political street art. The rich street art culture remains– and is even sanctioned by the government. Join a street art tour to discover works of art across the city.

Street art Mouraria

A few of my favorites to watch for? Bordalo II creates art out of trash, proving that one man’s trash really is another man’s treasure. If you spend enough time here, you may spot his Iberian lynx, fox, bee, raccoon, chimpanzee, and stork. Another artist to watch out for is Vhils. The talented artist uses a chisel or explosives to create detailed faces in concrete. 

Vhils Mouraria

Learn all about street art culture on a street art tour  at 3 pm or check the Meetup app, where  Grupo Lisbon Street Art has some tours where you can try your hand at wielding a spray can on legal walls.

Delight your senses at a hidden restaurant

Chef José Avillez was awarded two Michelin stars for Belcanto, but it’s his restaurant, Mini Bar, that puts stars in my eyes! For €75, you can experience 12 courses where nothing is quite as it seems. 

From the “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend” to the “Passion fruit” with coconut sorbet, prep your tastebuds for a wild ride! 

Mini Bar by José Avillez

Mini Bar is reservations-only and it fills up fast, so be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment. 

Visit a speakeasy

Not ready to say goodnight yet? Wander over to Foxtrot for a nightcap. Ring the buzzer and enter into the Art Nouveau-style bar with an interior terrace and cozy indoor seating. Play a round of billiards or snooker, or settle in by the fireplace if it’s chilly outside. 

Day 2: A photo-worthy day

Pack your camera and put on your cutest clothes– today is all kinds of Instagrammable! 

Say cheese at a Lisbon photoshoot

You’ve got your selfie game on lock, but a holiday in a city as gorgeous as Lisbon deserves frame-worthy photos. Enter: Phelipe Paraense. Phelipe is a creative genius with an eye for innovative shots. Case in point? We ran into some street cleaners during our early morning session. I saw wet ground. Phelipe saw this:

Rua Augusta Arch Lisbon

With his tips for posing and a persona that puts you instantly at ease, you’re sure to go home with some epic photos. The only issue you’ll have is deciding which to post first! 

Alfama tram

Book your photoshoot here  and tell him I sent you! I recommend choosing the earliest session of the day so you can get shots with minimal tourists. 

On your way to Belém, stop in at the LX Factory for hot cocoa at Ler Devagar. The bookstore is consistently named one of the top 10 most beautiful bookstores in the world, and their hot cocoa is one of my favorites in Lisbon. 

Ler Devagar in LX Factory

Afterward, wander through the industrial complex to shop for souvenirs and see some great street art. Psst. Bordalo II has a piece here. Can you find it?

Rui dos Pregos

After all that modeling and exploring, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite! When you arrive in Belém, head straight to Rui dos Pregos and order the prego no pão for €2.90. It’s a piece of thin beef steak that’s the size of your face with TONS of garlic on fresh bread. Note to all the single pringles reading this post — today’s *not* the day for smooching strangers if you choose to eat this sandwich. 

Pasteis de Belém

Since you’ve been in town for over 24 hours, you’ve probably already tried the famous pastel de nata. Now, you’re going to see where it all began. Don’t be intimidated by the line– it moves fast. When you enter Pasteis de Belém, take a deep breath– you’ll smell buttery pastry, cinnamon, and sweet custard with a side of history.

The pastel de nata is a “conventual sweet,” meaning it originated in the convents. While I’ve heard many stories about how these sweets came to be, most agree that egg whites were used to starch the nuns’ habits and conventual sweets were the result of an abundance of egg yolks. 

Pasteis de Belém opened in 1837 after all of the Portuguese convents and monasteries were shut down. Almost 200 years later, the pastry chefs create each pastel de Belém in a secret room, using the same secret recipe from the convent. Just like Champagne– it’s only a pastel de Belém if you have it here, so be sure to try the original! 

Jerónimos Monastery

The Jerónimos Monastery is quite possibly my favorite building in the world. I lived just up the street from this early 16th century UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, and I still get all the feels remembering walking past this iconic building for the first time as a Portuguese resident. 

Jerónimos monastery

Founded by King D. Manuel I, the first stone was laid on Kings Day in 1501 or 1502. The church houses the tombs of explorer Vasco da Gama and Portuguese poet and writer Luís de Camões, while the tomb of Portuguese writer and poet Fernando Pessoa and an exhibit on the history of the monastery lie within the cloister. 

While entrance to the church is free, you’ll need tickets to enter the cloister. Purchase your fast-track pass here . 

Belém Tower

From the monastery, head towards the river and turn right. Stroll along the Tagus until you come to the Belém Tower. Most days, you’ll find vendors selling pina coladas in pineapples and the most talented electric violin busker playing pop tunes. The Belém Tower is the ceremonial gateway to Lisbon and the site of the embarkation and disembarkation of many Portuguese expeditions.  

Don’t want to do it all on your own? Get the full scoop on a guided 2.5-hour tour . 

Tower of Belém

Santini ice cream

I hope you packed your sweet tooth today! The first Gelados Santini shop opened in 1949, and the popularity hasn’t dwindled! The chocolate and coconut flavor is my favorite– but I haven’t had a bad scoop yet! 

Sunset cruise

Still not convinced that Lisbon is the most magical place on earth? Head back to the water once more for a sunset cruise on the Tagus. Sail past the monuments with a glass of Portuguese wine in hand as the sky explodes into a multitude of colors. I guarantee this will be a night you’ll never forget! 

This two-hour Lisbon sailing tour offers morning, sunset, and night tours. 

This one or two-hour Lisbon sailing tour offers morning, afternoon, sunset, and night tours. 

A Cevicheria

Head back into town for dinner and cross your fingers you can get a spot at A Cevicheria. Chef Kiko’s restaurant doesn’t accept reservations, but it’s worth any wait.

A Cevicheria – Ceviche de Salmão e Ananás

I don’t even like fish (let alone  raw fish) and this is one of my favorite restaurants in Lisbon. Don’t miss the Ceviche de Salmão e Ananás or Taco de Tártaro de Atum e Tobiko!

A Cevicheria tacos

Pavilhão Chinês

After dinner, walk one minute down the street to Pavilhão Chines and ring the bell to enter a bar that puts Ariel’s Secret Grotto to shame. Built in an old grocery store, this unique bar is filled with vintage collectibles, tchotchkes from around the world, and a mannequin of a British Palace Guard! 

Pavilhão Chines Queen’s Guard

The cocktail menu is one of the most extensive I’ve ever seen, and choosing just one was not easy! After much debate, I decided The Godfather was an offer I couldn’t refuse. Like revenge, the Scotch whiskey, amaretto, crème de cacao, creme, and cinnamon is best served cold. 

The Godfather at Pavilhão Chines

Day 3: A Sintra day trip fit for a queen (or king)

Dust off your princess crown! Today, you’re headed for the most magical place on earth (without a larger-than-life-sized mouse). 

Pena Palace

Palacio Nacional da Pena (or Pena Palace) is a Disney castle come to life! The red and yellow castle with gorgeous blue azulejos is a stunning example of 19th century Romanticism architecture mixed with Manueline (like Jerónimos Monastery) and Moorish architecture.

Pena Palace Sintra

The site was originally used as a church and later, a monastery, before King Ferdinand II began construction on the site to build a summer home for the royal family. The castle was completed in 1854, but wouldn’t be used for long by the royal family. After the 5 October 1910 revolution, Queen Amélia spent her last night in Pena Palace before leaving the country in exile. 

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth a visit, just listen to the words of German composer Richard Strauss, “Today is the happiest day of my life. It’s the most beautiful thing I’ve seen. This is the true Garden of Klingsor – and there, up on high, is the Castle of the Holy Grail.”

Buy your tickets to Pena Park and Palace here . 

Quinta da Regaleira

This is the setting of a Nicolas Cage movie waiting to happen. Dreamed up by a wealthy, Knights Templar-obsessed Brazilian mining mogul, the Gothic pinnacles of the main house are studded with gargoyles, and the extensive gardens are filled with secret Masonic symbolism. Descend the winding steps of the Initiation Well toward the cave system below, crossing the nine platforms designed to evoke the nine circles of hell from Dante’s Inferno. 

Initiation Well – Quinta da Regaleira

Was António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro an initiate of the Knights Templar, or simply interested in the secretive group’s traditions? Which rituals and rites have these wells seen? Visit for yourself and try to get to the bottom of it! 

Taste the wines of Portugal at Bar do Binho

Ascend the stairs, past photos of Johnny Depp, and into the tasting room of Bar do Binho. When I visited, we opted for the Premium Table Wines Tasting Set for €32.50 alongside a cheese and meat platter (because four wines on an empty stomach isn’t a great choice). Is this the cheapest wine tasting you’ll ever attend? Definitely not. But the wines were unique and the storytelling is second to none. By the end of our tasting, Carlos felt like an old friend, and I can’t wait to go back for another round of tastings! 

Eat travesseiros at Casa Piriquita

Talk to any local, and they’ll tell you that you simply  must stop at Casa Piriquita for travesseiros. Founded in 1862, the bakery is now in the hands of the fifth generation, who make the fluffy pastry filled with egg and almond custard. Just like Pasteis de Belém– this recipe is so well-guarded that only the family has access! 

Don’t want to DIY? Try these Sintra tours.

Book a guided tour and take the guesswork out of the day! Book this tour to enjoy air-conditioned travel to and from Lisbon, a guided tour of Quinta da Regaleira and Pena Palace (entry to Pena Palace is extra). 

Feeling adventurous? Book this Jeep tour of Sintra , with stops at Quinta da Regaleira and Pena Palace with travesseiro and ginjinha tastings included!

Feel saudade at a fado performance

Saudade  is a Portuguese word without a translation. To feel it for yourself, you’ll have to see a fado show. The singers’ mournful tones evoke a feeling of deep yearning, melancholy, and nostalgia. 

While fado performances in Alfama and Mouraria are the most popular (and for good reason!), I love the performance at Trovas Antigas in Bairro Alto. As you’re shown to your table, be sure to peek into the ancient well that once provided water to the area. 

When you sit down, you’ll find a basket of bread (€2) and a platter of meat, cheese, and marmalade (€20). If you’re not up for a €22 investment as soon as you sit down, just let your waiter know that you don’t need the couvert. In Portugal, most restaurants bring small snacks or appetizers to the table– unlike the unlimited chips and salsa at your favorite TexMex spot, these aren’t free. If you want them, great! If not, just let your waiter know.

I highly recommend that you say a heck yes to the black pork cheeks in red wine. The €16 meal is one of the best I’ve had for the price! 

Looking for a Portuguese Connection?

Pop into Pub Português next door for a Portuguese Connection cocktail. It’s a Lisbon-ified version of a G+T, made with ginjinha instead of gin and garnished with sour cherries. Those cherries are soaked in aguardente (translation: firewater) that can contain up to 60% alcohol, so eat with caution! Be sure to say hi to Nuno and Eduardo and tell them I sent you! 

Portuguese Connection at Pub Português

Day 4: Step back in history

Gooood morning! I hope you didn’t eat  too many sour cherries last night because we’re going to do some exploring today in two of Lisbon’s most traditional neighborhoods. You’re going to break records with today’s step count, so wear your comfiest shoes. 

Try the best pastel de nata in Lisbon (according to me) 

I believe every day should start with something sweet. And in this city with a sweet tooth, there’s no shortage of amazing desserts  pastries. Some people think desserts should happen after a meal (we’re not friends with those people), but if you call it a pastry it can happen anytime! 

I digress. Start the sweetest day yet with a pastel de nata from Pastelaria Santo António. I believe desserts taste best with a side of magic, and Santo António delivers. St. Anthony was born in Alfama and is known as the matchmaker saint. Whether or not you’ve found true love, make a wish before eating this pastel de nata and Santo António will make it happen*!

Pastelaria Santo António

*My wish hasn’t come true yet, but I think that just means I need to eat more pasteis de natas.  

Take a walk on the wild side of Lisbon history

Lisbon’s history is  wild . The slippery cobblestone streets? That’s a direct result of King Manuel I’s rhinoceros and a birthday parade. And that’s not even the craziest story about King Manuel I and the rhino. To find out how an elephant and the pope fit into the narrative, you’re going to have to join the free Alfama and Mouraria: History versus Modern Facts tour . 

The 3-hour tour starts at 10:30 am and will take you through some of the oldest and most authentic neighborhoods in Lisbon. Pedro led the tour I joined, and his encyclopedic knowledge, ability to entertain, and penchant for finding hidden gems made this one of the best free tours I’ve ever taken.

History of Lisbon

Don’t forget to tip your guide! 

Food tour – Taste of Lisboa

Hungry yet? You’re in for a treat. On my first visit to Lisbon , Taste of Lisboa introduced me to my favorite cheese in the world and told stories that led to my love affair with (and eventual move to) Lisbon. I can’t promise you’ll want to move here after a Lisbon Roots, Food, and Cultural Walk, but I can’t guarantee it won’t happen, either! Book your tour here . 

Watch the sunset from a secret garden

You deserve to sit down and rest– but you should do it with a great view. Walk up to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, and find the Secret Garden LX. Behind these unassuming (and unmarked) garden gates, you’ll find a gorgeous oasis with tasty cocktails, meal specials, and occasional live music and poetry soirées!

Secret Garden views

Take in the views, watch the sunset, and debrief from all the information you’ve learned! 

Taberna Sal Grosso 

If you’re looking for authentic, affordable Portuguese food in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, make a reservation at Taberna Sal Grosso . Specials are written on a chalkboard mounted on the wall, but you can’t go wrong with anything you choose. After we finished our food, the waiter brought around several bottles of alcohol and two glasses for me and my friend to pour our own digestif.  A fun end to a delicious meal!

Day 5: A day for the foodies 

Your time in Lisbon is coming to a close, and the best way to make the most of your last day is to figure out how to bring Portugal home with you. Today, you’ll be learning how to cook some of the best Portuguese dishes so you can impress your friends and relive this trip over and over again!

Ready for the most OTT brunch in Lisbon? If you’ve been to Porto, you know all about the francesinha sandwich. This delicious heart attack on a plate is a combination of bread, ham, sausage, melted cheese, and a tomato/beer sauce that leaves you begging for mercy while complimenting the chef. Zenith has taken it to the next level with their francesinha pancakes. A stack of pancakes is topped with bacon, chicken, cheddar cheese, a fried egg, and francesinha sauce– I hope you wore your stretchy pants. 

Zenith francesinha pancakes

Pastel de nata class

How many pasteis de natas have you eaten on your trip? If you’re thinking of bringing a sleeve home, I hate to break it to you, but these babies don’t travel well. As the saying goes: If you give a traveler a pastel de nata they’ll eat it today. If you teach a traveler to make a pastel de nata, they’ll eat them forever! 

Pastel de Nata cooking class

Join this pastel de nata cooking class to learn how to make these custard tarts at home. Bonus? You’ll also learn how to make a fried bacalhau snack! The instructors were friendly and made sure our sweet and savory creations turned out great. 

Spend the day playing

When was the last time you broke the “grown-up” façade and let your inner nine-year-old out to play? If there’s a neighborhood you haven’t seen yet or one you’d like to explore some more, consider a DIY scavenger hunt. Take a look at all of the Secret City Trails riddle routes , and see if you can crack the puzzles to discover more hidden gems in Lisbon.  You can read more about the scavenger hunt I participated in here . 

Try another pastel de nata

You’ve had the original pastel de nata and you’ve tried my favorite traditional pastry. Now it’s time to blow your mind with a chocolate pastel de nata from Nata de Lisboa. If you’re looking for a reason to extend your trip, this might just push you over the edge!

Nata de Lisbon – chocolate pastel de nata

Shop for souvenirs

If you’ve saved room in your suitcase, here are a few Portuguese souvenirs to bring home:

• Cork products
• Canned Sardines (The Fantastic World Of Portuguese Sardines is a quirky shop with a circus-like atmosphere that sells colorful, whimsical cans of sardines)
• Portuguese wine
• Gold filigree jewelry
• Art (you can purchase directly from artists at most of the mirodouros)
• Tea from Companhia Portugueza do Chá (the British love of tea is all thanks to a Portuguese woman who married the king of England)

Please don’t buy authentic azulejos. Many are stolen , and increasing the demand for the tiles from historic buildings increases the incentive for thieves to continue destroying the azulejos that make this city special. 

Dinner: DIY-style

It’s your last chance to bring a little Portugal home with you. Join a cooking class to perfect the art of petiscos (Portuguese tapas) or go for a full-fledged 3-course meal . No matter which option you choose, you’ll be prepared to host a Portuguese-themed dinner party when you return home. 

All good things must come to an end, and it’s time to fly back home! I hope this Lisbon travel guide has helped you to fall in love with Lisbon, and that we’ll see you back in Portugal again someday in the future. 

Até breve!  See you soon! 

What was your favorite part of your trip? Let me know in the comments! 

Pin this Lisbon itinerary!

Candace Capron

Sunday 7th of January 2024

Where did you try your favorite cheese and what was the name of the cheese. I cannot wait to try out your suggestions this summer!

Friday 12th of January 2024

It's queijo de Azeitao, and you can find it at most grocery stores! If you want a more bespoke experience, check out Manteigaria Silva in Baixa!

Friday 27th of January 2023

I have a disability that makes it hard for me to climb. I can do it and I will do it, but I am wondering how much climbing there is with all the tourist attractions.

Tuesday 31st of January 2023

Lisbon has definitely earned its nickname as the "city with seven hills." There is quite a bit of climbing, and unfortunately, many parts of Lisbon are not very disability friendly. Thankfully, there's a great public transportation system and many free elevators throughout the city to help avoid some of the stairs! I hope you have an amazing time!

Wednesday 24th of August 2022

Hello and thank you for this very informative blog. As a result, we've booked the tile painting. I was also suggesting to my group that we go to Mini-Bar. However, one of them pointed out that the latest reviews - mostly those over the summer - have been quite poor. Do you know of anything that could have changed? We are going in mid-September. Thank you again!

Thursday 25th of August 2022

I'm so happy to hear you've booked the tile painting— I hope you love it as much as my mom and I did! I have been to Mini Bar three times— most recently in May. I've always had great service and an awesome experience. I love the unique presentations and find joy in things not being as they appear. If that kind of thing sounds exciting to you, I think you'll have a great time!

Friday 25th of February 2022

Thank you! I've read a bunch of Lisbon articles and they are all basically the same so I appreciated having a few different ideas. We're looking at a late May visit and I'm jotting down a bunch of your restaurant recommendations!

Saturday 26th of February 2022

This makes me so so happy to hear; I loved putting together this list and I'm glad it's been helpful! I hope you have a wonderful trip to Lisbon!

7 of the best things to do in Lisbon

Nov 26, 2023 • 6 min read

From riding the city's iconic trams to visiting Unesco-listed sites, here are Lisbon's top experiences © Gabriel Mello / Getty Images

Over the last decade or so,  Lisbon  has emerged as one of Europe’s top tourist destinations.

With its cobbled alleys, soft color palette, UNESCO-listed heritage sites and white-domed cathedrals, it has also drawn a flux of new residents, all seduced by its beauty and balmy weather. Here's our guide to the best things to do in Portugal 's capital city.

1. Visit Belém and its UNESCO-listed monastery

One of Lisbon’s few must-see sights is Belém 's undisputed architectural showstopper, the  Mosteiro dos Jerónimos . You will almost certainly want to photograph the stunning honey-stone Manueline cloisters inside this UNESCO-listed 1495 monastery. On the nearby riverfront, another UNESCO-listed signature sight is the Torre de Belém . This chess-piece-like fortress epitomizes the excess of the Age of Discovery, and the tower top rewards stair-climbers with sublime views over the Tagus. When you're done with sightseeing, cocktails and pomegranate-pink sunsets await down by the river.

Planning tip:  Time your visit to Mosterio dos Jerónimos for early or late in the day if you want to avoid the crowds.

2. Soak up all those stunning views from Lisbon's miradouros

Legend has it that Lisbon, like Rome, was built upon seven hills. The city – reputed to be Europe’s second-oldest capital after Athens – has mushroomed since its founding some 2,700 years ago and now covers many more than just seven hills, meaning that there are plenty of vantage points to take in the views. Known as miradouros in Portuguese, these spots dot the historical center, affording stunning vistas of this pastel-hued metropolis and the mighty Tagus River along its southern edge.

Local favorite miradouros include  São Pedro de Alcâtara , a postage-stamp-sized garden in the trendy  Príncipe Real neighborhood where you can soak in the view while sipping a glass of rosé, and, directly across town, the  Miradouro da Graça that looks out over the nearby  Castelo de São Jorge , the ruins of an 11th-century Moorish palace. 

For picture-perfect panoramic views similar to what’s on offer at the Elevador Santa Justa (a turn-of-the-20th-century public transit project linking the central Baixa neighborhood with its hilltop neighbor, the aptly named Bairro Alto, or "high neighborhood") head to TOPO , a terrace bar on the top floor of a shopping center off the fast-gentrifying Martim Moniz Square. 

Planning tip:  The best time to visit is sunset, when Lisbon’s hallmark golden light illuminates the city.

Explore Miradouro da Graça effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

3. Tour the city's best art museums

Get a sense of Portugal’s once-global presence at the  Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga , the country’s answer to the Louvre. It contains treasures of Portuguese and European art, but also pieces that were taken from formerly colonized regions that once stretched from West Africa to India to Japan. Housed in a 17th-century palace in the Lapa neighborhood, the museum also has a manicured garden that boasts an enviable view over the Tagus.

Across town, the  Museu Calouste Gulbenkian offers visitors a whirlwind overview of the history of art, from ancient Egypt to the present day. Amassed by the Turkish-born British financier Calouste Gulbenkian, the eclectic collection is widely acknowledged as among the premier private collections in the world.

Transform your visit to Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga by  booking with GetYourGuide.

4. Don't miss a live fado performance

The Portuguese word saudade , which loosely translates in English as longing, nostalgia or wistful yearning, is widely considered a defining quality of the Portuguese national character. It’s also at the heart of Portugal’s national music, fado, which is tinged with melancholy even at its most upbeat and is often nothing short of a heart-wrenching cri de coeur , set to a pithy classical guitar. Thought to have originated in Lisbon in the early 19th century among sailors and dock workers, the soulful musical style has become so deep a part of the national culture here that when its most famous singer, Amália Rodrigues, died in 1999, the government declared three days of official mourning. 

To leave Lisbon without seeing fado performed live would, then, verge on the criminal. Luckily, restaurants known for their live fado shows abound in Lisbon, particularly in the popular Alfama neighborhood where the style got its start. The Mesa de Frades , a cozy, intimate space known for its top-notch performers, is among the top venues, attracting such fans as Madonna, who frequented the restaurant while she was living in Lisbon. The Alfama is also home to the Museu do Fado , a small museum showcasing all manner of fado-related artifacts from the first recordings of the genre to its hallmark pear-shaped guitars.

5. Taste fresh seafood dishes

Half an hour from the Atlantic, Lisbon is a seafood lover's paradise. You’ll get top-notch seafood at any price point – from humble holes-in-the-wall food stands to fine dining. Founded in the 1950s, Cervejaria Ramiro is a perennial classic, serving up lobster, shellfish, giant tiger shrimp, prawns and more to a lively crowd. A line generally starts to form before the place even opens.  Água Pela Barba , in the Chiado neighborhood, offers up a smaller but no less mouthwatering seafood selection in a more intimate space.

Planning tip:  If you’re hankering for something truly special, you can’t go wrong with the  Restaurante 100 Maneiras , one of Lisbon’s most acclaimed dining experiences. Reservations are a must. 

6. Ride the historic tram 28E

Few Lisbon images are as iconic as those of the city's vintage electric trams. These adorable yellow-and-white elétricos have been shaking, rattling and rolling around the city since 1901 (they were horse-pulled before that). And none of the system's five lines are coveted more than tram 28E , which crisscrosses the city center between the westside's Campo de Ourique and Martim Moniz, passing many of Lisbon's key sights, astonishing lookouts and symbolic neighborhoods along the way.

Planning tip: Other old tram routes offer a similarly rewarding experience. However, these characterful carriages aren't particularly comfortable and don't cover a lot of the city, so if you're looking for an efficient way to get around in Lisbon , you may find the metro or the bus networks are better choices.

7. Cycle to the coast

Technically, Lisbon is not a beach town, but its laid-back vibe and the palm trees that dot the pastel-colored cityscape give it a distinctly ocean-front feeling. In fact, it’s a short car, train or ferry ride from scores of proper beaches . To make a day of it, rent a bike in the far western Lisbon neighborhood of Belém. There, hop on the ferry to Trafaria on the southern bank of the Tagus River, a low-key fishing village that feels worlds away from bustling Lisbon. Now take the bike path due west, and you’ll hit the start of the Caparica Coast, a 24km-long (14-mile-long) stretch of golden sandy beaches. But beware, the North Atlantic waters are pretty cold year-round.

This article was first published March 2020 and updated November 2023

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Lisbon Tourism Guide

The best lisbon trip planner, travel tips and insider’s guide.

K nown for being one of Europe’s most laid-back and sunniest capitals , Lisbon has become a trendy city break destination . Built on seven hills, it’s an incredibly scenic and romantic city, and has an unrivalled position by the sea , with several sandy beaches just minutes from downtown. Offering historical sights and fun in the sun (still at reasonable prices ), it’s a European capital like no other, and one that you’ll want to return to time and again.

Lisbon Travel Planner

Helpful insider tips to plan the perfect days in the city:.

50 Best Things to Do Where to go and what to see

The Best Neighborhoods Know where to stay

Transportation Guide How to get around Lisbon

30 Best Viewpoints The Best Views of Lisbon

10 Best Beaches The Beautiful Lisbon Coast

10 Best Day Trips Where to Go Around Lisbon

How many days in lisbon.

You should spend at least three days in Lisbon, but the city is also a great destination for an extended summer holiday. The “Age of Discovery” attractions of Belém take an entire day to explore, while another day could be split between Alfama and the Parque das Nações district, and a third should be set aside for a day trip to Sintra . A fourth or more days would allow you to head to the beach or enjoy a walk by the sea in Cascais , and explore alternative corners of the capital and museums of interest. Lisbon is also a good base to discover other highlights of Portugal, such as Évora , Óbidos , or the fishing-villages-turned-surfing-meccas Ericeira and Nazaré .

When to Visit Lisbon?

Lisbon is a year-round destination, with warm summers and mild winters. Hot summer temperatures are cooled off by the Atlantic breeze, while in winter they never reach the freezing point. Although it’s known as a sunny city and for being the European capital with the mildest winters, it can also rain for days between November and April. Weather at that time of the year is quite unpredictable, but in the spring there may be downpours for one hour followed by clear skies and sun. Because many of Lisbon’s top attractions are outdoors (the viewpoints, beaches, and even the palace-hopping in Sintra), visiting in the wettest months may not be a good idea. The high tourist season is between June and early September, so the prices of accommodation go up at that time. Late May and mid-September may be the best times to visit, as temperatures are mild, it’s good enough for days at the beach, and the crowds are fewer. If you must visit in the summer, make sure you book accommodation well in advance.

10 Things You Should Know Before You Visit Lisbon

1 . Lisbon is very hilly , but walks are rewarded with magnificent views at the top, from various “miradouros” ( viewpoints ). Each offers a different perspective, and miradouro -hopping is one of the city’s most memorable (and Instagram-worthy) experiences.

2 . The coast around Lisbon has a variety of beautiful beaches . Some have the perfect waves for surfing , others have no waves at all, but they’re all clean and sandy. Some are crowded, others are wild and nearly deserted. If you’ll be in the city in the spring and summer months, try to prolong your stay for one or more days at the beach.

3 . Lisbon is one of Europe’s oldest cities (it’s the second-oldest capital after Athens), but most of the center dates from the late 1700s. That’s because one of the worst recorded earthquakes destroyed most of it in 1755, and it had to be completely rebuilt. Only four central neighborhoods predate the disaster — the ancient Alfama and Mouraria below the castle, Madragoa close to the riverfront, and Bairro Alto , laid out in the early 1500s up on a hill. Wandering around these “bairros históricos” (historic neighborhoods or old quarters) is one of the city’s most rewarding experiences, especially if you love to photograph.

4 . Lisbon started as a Phoenician trading port called Alis Ubbo (“Delightful Shore”), then became part of the Roman empire, before being taken over by the Visigoths and the Moors. When the new nation of Portugal was founded in 1139 in northern Iberia, the king decided to expand his territory and conquered the lands to the south, which included Lisbon, in 1147. It became the Portuguese capital in 1385, and ended up ruling a global empire in the “Age of Discovery” (15th and 16th centuries). The city’s most iconic landmarks date from this last period, including the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery , both World Heritage Sites and prime examples of Manueline architecture (a Portuguese late Gothic style).

5 . To reach the top of the tallest hills, nothing can beat the good-old trams and funiculars. Lisbon preserves vintage vehicles with wooden interiors, and they go through some of the city’s most picturesque streets. The only disadvantage is that they’re public transportation, so are always crowded and can be uncomfortable if you don’t get a seat. Fortunately, there are now routes just for tourists, where you can always comfortably enjoy the ride and the views along the way: Lisbon tram tours

6 . One of Lisbon’s most striking features is its use of decorative tiles (“azulejos”) to adorn entire façades . Those may be geometric patterns, solid colors or monumental murals. The tradition started in the 1700s, and is often still applied to modern buildings. Inside churches and palaces you’ll mostly see blue-and-white panels from the Baroque period, creating a distinct architecture that you won’t see anywhere else in the world.

7 . Lisbon has become a major center for street art , with two big local names leaving their mark on the city -- Vhils (who sculpts faces on buildings) and Bordalo II (who creates art from trash). You’ll surely find their pieces as you walk around the city, together with works by foreign artists.

8 . Lisbon is one of only a few cities in the world which developed its own musical style . Buenos Aires has its tango, New Orleans has jazz, Rio de Janeiro moves to samba, and Seville dances to flamenco, while Lisbon listens to fado. It’s mostly nostalgic and melancholic poems recited to the sound of guitars, but you don’t need to understand the words to feel the emotion of a performance. You may hear it at “casas de fado” (or “fado houses”), which are restaurants with live performances by professional or amateur singers, mostly in the neighborhoods of Alfama, Mouraria, and Bairro Alto.

9 . A balmy climate invites the people of Lisbon to enjoy their nights on the streets. No weekend in the city is complete without bar-hopping in the neighborhoods of Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré -- everyone buys a drink inside and stays chatting by the door or on the street, before moving to another bar to repeat the dose.

10 . The younger generation in Lisbon speaks English quite well , so you won’t have a problem communicating. Still, learn a few basic words in Portuguese: “ obrigado ” is “thank you” (never use “gracias” — you’re not in Spain!), “ bom dia ” is “good morning”, “ boa tarde ” is "good afternoon," " boa noite " is “good evening/night,” and “ fala inglês? ” is “do you speak English?”

Official Lisbon Tourism Office

Everything you need to plan your visit to Lisbon is on this website. It provides useful tips and information from locals and travel experts, not associated with or sponsored by any local business, organization or institution -- it’s entirely independent and unbiased. However, if you still have any questions when you’re in the city, pass by the official tourism office, which is located in the main square, Praça do Comércio . Another tourist office is found in Restauradores Square , also offering information about other destinations in Portugal.

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Complete lisbon guide.

Insider's guide with the latest travel tips, information and advice from local experts:

Where to Stay

Hotels in Alfama and the Castle

Hotels on Avenida da Liberdade

Hotels in Bairro Alto

Hotels in Baixa

Hotels in Chiado

Hotels in Príncipe Real

Hotels in Avenidas Novas

Neighborhoods

Avenida da Liberdade

Avenidas Novas

Bairro Alto

Cais do Sodré

Campo de Ourique

Parque das Nações

Príncipe Real

What to See & Do

Top 50 Attractions

Top 30 Museums

Top 30 Viewpoints

Best Beaches

Best Day Trips

Itinerary Advice

Family Attractions

On a Rainy Day

1 Day in Lisbon

Tourist Card

Tourist Map

Most Popular Attractions

Jerónimos Monastery

Belém Tower

Castle of St. George

Discoveries Monument

Ajuda Palace

Santa Justa Elevator

Rua Augusta Arch

Lisbon Cathedral

Coaches Museum

Tile Museum

MAC/CCB Museum

Ancient Art Museum

Pena Palace (Sintra)

Most Popular Beaches

Praia da Conceição

Costa da Caparica

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo

Praia da Ursa

Transportation

Travel Cards

Tram 15 to Belém

Train to Belém

Bica Funicular

Glória Funicular

Bus 101 to Cristo Rei

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

Airport Guide

Airport Transportation

Rossio Station

Santa Apolónia Station

Oriente Station

Cais do Sodré Station

Sete Rios Bus Station

Cacilhas Bus Station

Portugal Travel Guides

Lisbon   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is probably best known for its colonial history, ornate architecture and tradition of Fado music. But some of its best features are in the everyday – spectacular hilltop vistas in  Alfama  or at  St. George's Castle , blue-and-white

• All Things To Do

Tram 28 Tram 28

San Francisco has its cable cars , London has its red double-decker buses and Lisbon has its trams. Tram 28, which extends from Martim Moniz to Campo de Ourique, in particular takes riders on a tourist-friendly route. Not only does it pass through some of the city's most notable neighborhoods, including Graça, Baixa and Bairro Alto, but it also travels by popular attractions, such as  St. George's Castle  and  Alfama . Along with a scenic route, the cars themselves are also considered to be part of the experience. Many of Lisbon's trams, including some used on the Tram 28 route, are the same that were used in World War II, so don't expect air conditioning, or a smooth trip up and around the area's hills. But don't worry, recent travelers said it's all part of the tram's charm.

Some visitors recommend taking the tram up the steep Alfama hill and then walking back down to explore the neighborhood. Due to the tram's popularity, the tram cars tend to get crowded quickly, so make sure to arrive early or later in the day to avoid the long, midday lines. Others suggested hopping on the tram in the middle of its route, such as the Se Cathedral stop, to avoid the long lines at either terminus. Also, because of the tram's popularity with tourists, it's a target for pickpockets. Remember to keep an eye on your belongings, especially cameras.

Belém Belém free

The waterfront Belém is a historic neighborhood that houses some of Lisbon's most important monuments, museums and one very popular Portuguese tart cafe, the Pasteis de Belém. Here you'll find the  Jerónimos Monastery , the  Belém Tower, the Discoveries Monument , the Belém Palace (the official residence of Portugal's president), the Coleção Berardo Museum as well as a number of scenic gardens.

As the Discoveries Monument beautifully illustrates, Belém is important in that it was a popular departure point during the Age of Discoveries. Some notable adventurers that have embarked from Belém include Vasco da Gama, who was the first person to sail directly from Europe to India, and Ferdinand Magellan, who was aboard the first ship that successfully circumnavigated the world. In addition, Christopher Columbus also made a stop here on his way back to Spain from the Americas.

Cabo da Roca Cabo da Roca free

Tiny Cabo de Roca (or Cape Roca) isn't just the westernmost point on mainland Europe. It offers beautiful views of nearby Sintra and the coastline, as well as scenic hiking trails. About 400 years ago, there was a fort here; today, there is little indication of its existence, just a lighthouse and a few associated buildings. To escape the region's throngs of tourists, follow the challenging trails to beautiful beaches like Praia da Ursa and Praia da Adraga. Then grab a coffee or souvenir and head back to Lisbon.

Recent visitors use words like "breathtaking" and "gorgeous" to describe this natural area. Many were enchanted by the 250-year-old lighthouse (which is still staffed by a person), while those disinclined to hike said a quick stop here was all they needed. Several reviewers also said they visited the area on a guided tour. Companies like The Cooltours and Inside Lisbon received high praise. 

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Alfama Alfama free

Some tourists choose to take  Tram 28 through the Alfama neighborhood because it's so hilly, but whether you choose to burn some calories or contend with the tram crowds, a visit to the picturesque Alfama is a must. With a history that dates back to the Moors, Alfama is characterized by narrow, cobblestone streets that wind past dozens of quaint shops, cozy restaurants and traditional Fado clubs, all of which are housed within historic yet well-preserved architecture. Popular city attractions like  St. George's Castle ,  Lisbon Cathedral  and  Feira de Ladra  are also located in Alfama.

Travelers come in droves to bear witness to the neighborhood's famed charm (and some street art), and say this is the best place to get to know Lisbon. Visitors also say this isn't a district to breeze through, but rather take your time with and get lost in. Ditch the map and let yourself wander the colorful streets, grab a drink alfresco in an alleyway, or seek out one of the neighborhood's many vantage points, including the popular Miradouro de Santa Luzia, or the Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen.

Santa Justa Lift Santa Justa Lift

For some sweeping views of Lisbon – particularly Rossio Square and the Baixa neighborhood – you might want to take a ride on the Elevador de Santa Justa, or the Santa Just Lift as it's more commonly known .  Designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard (a former student of Gustave Eiffel – creator of the Eiffel tower ), this neo-Gothic elevator is more than a century old and used to be powered by steam. The structure is more than just a means to meet a vista's end, but rather a convenient shortcut for commuters looking to get to Bairro Alto without having to work up the sweat climbing the hill. While the exterior is almost entirely wrought iron, inside visitors will find two old-fashioned wood cabins that take riders up to the nearly 150-foot-tall vantage point.

Although visitors were more than pleased with the views, some visitors found the attraction to be a rip-off, especially since are so many free viewpoints throughout Lisbon thanks to the city's many hills. Travelers also complained of the long lines throughout the day and suggested going either very early in the day or very late at night, but even that isn't a guarantee. Plus, because the elevator's capacity is limited, lines move slow.

Lisbon Cathedral Lisbon Cathedral free

Sturdy Lisbon Cathedral is perhaps more imposing than your average medieval religious site. With very few windows, it resembles a fortress nearly as much as a cathedral. This 1147 building survived the devastating 1755 earthquake. St. Anthony was baptized here in 1195. While parts of the cathedral are nearly 900 years old, it has been heavily altered during that time. Today, interior and exterior demonstrate that with a mix of styles: Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque elements can be spotted.

Visitors were awed by the outside of the cathedral – most recommend going in, although several felt it was not a "must-see." Travelers enjoyed exploring the various parts of the building, from the altar and choir to the cloister and treasury. Visitors who had seen many other European cathedrals were less impressed, noting its smaller size and lack of English interpretation of the building.

Sintra Sintra free

Located about 20 miles northwest of central Lisbon, Sintra's praises have been sung in literature by the likes of British poet Lord Byron and Portuguese poet Luís Vaz de Camões; Byron described it as a "glorious Eden." A veritable heaven on earth, the small city's rolling hills are clad with vibrant vegetation and fairy tale-like villas separated by cobblestone streets.

The star of the show is the colorful Park and National Palace of Pena, which was built to be a romantic getaway for Queen Maria II and her consort. There's also the Sintra National Palace, whose azulejo-adorned interiors are more elaborate than its gleaming white exterior, the Monserrate Palace, the Castle of the Moors, and the Quinta da Regaleira. What's more, the entire city is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

One of the most notable aspects of Lisbon's alluring architecture is its vibrant ceramic tiles. You might find these Portuguese tiles, or  azulejos , adorned on buildings during a walk about town (especially in  Alfama ), in gift shops (or at stalls at the  Feira da Ladra ), or within the walls of other top city attractions, including some of the palaces or villas that dot  Sintra .

If you don't feel like spending time seeking out tiles on the streets, a visit to the National Tile Museum is the perfect alternative. The museum is filled to the brim with tiles of all colors and sizes, some of which date back to the 15th century. Some are simple, with individual tiles decorated with flowers or sailboats, while others are pieced together to create grand murals chronicling people or stories steeped with history. Not only that, but there is information spread throughout detailing how azulejos are made.

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Plan a daytrip to Cascais Plan a daytrip to Cascais free

The seaside town of Cascais (kush-kaish) is about a 45-minute train ride west of Lisbon's Cais do Sodré station. Once a fishing village, Cascais became a popular respite for the rich and royal in the 1900s. Today, Europeans of all kinds flock to this beachy city for some low-cost fun in the sun. And since it's peppered with luxurious resorts and hotels, a weekend here may be an ideal end to your Lisbon vacation.

Don't be put off by its diminutive size – there is plenty to do here. Take a stroll around the colorful, cobblestone-lined old town, visit one of the area's many forts that helped prevent pirate attacks or relax on one of the area's many beaches.

St. George's Castle (Castelo de Sao Jorge) St. George's Castle (Castelo de Sao Jorge)

Castelo de São Jorge , or St. George's Castle, is perched atop Lisbon's highest hill in  Alfama , offering both excellent history and views of the city. The castle served as a fortification for the Romans, Visigoths and the Moors, who turned it into a royal palace before it was eventually taken by Portugal's first king, Afonso Henriques. The attraction has kept an array of relics, including canons, which are spread throughout, and 10 towers, one of which houses a camera obscura. There is also a restaurant on-site, gardens where peacocks frequently make appearances and an archaeological center.

Visitors gushed about the incredible views of the city and the sea. But although most were impressed with its quality preservation, many found the attraction to be lacking, as there isn't much to do on-site. If you'd like to get more out of the castle, consider visiting with an organized tour – the advice of past visitors who said there is little historical information posted throughout the site. Past travelers also advised future visitors to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll have to walk up a hill to reach the castle. To avoid long ticket lines at the entrance, reviewers suggest you buy your tickets online in advance.

Torre de Belém and Monument to the Discoveries Torre de Belém and Monument to the Discoveries

What looks to be an idyllic mini castle seamlessly floating on the Tagus riverfront was originally a fort that served to protect Lisbon's port in the 16th century. It served as a departure point for explorers looking to travel the world during the Age of Discoveries. Today, the Manueline structure serves as a monument to that heyday and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the nearby Monastery of Jerónimos . Visitors can go inside and explore the interiors, whose rooms once served as royals quarters, a prison and a chapel, to name a few.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos, or the Monument to the Discoveries, is just a short walk away, and equally stunning. The waterfront structure was reconstructed in the 1960s in conjunction with the 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator's death. Although he wasn't an explorer himself, he was a prince who significantly supported a handful of important explorations during his time. The sail-shaped statue is lined with notable Portuguese figures throughout history, including other navigators, artists and King Manuel. Inside, visitors can climb to the top of the monument for greater views of the river.

Palácio Nacional da Ajuda Palácio Nacional da Ajuda

Anyone who loves neoclassical architecture, decorative arts or history will enjoy a visit to the National Palace of Ajuda, or Palácio Nacional da Ajuda. This palace, built in the first half of the 1800s, is the only palace open to the public in Lisbon. It preserves both the original room arrangements and many decorations, including gold and silverware, jewelry, textiles, furniture, glassware and ceramics, and many forms of visual art. Monarchy in Portugal ended in 1910, when the building was closed down and the royal family went into exile. In 1968 the palace reopened as a museum.

Recent visitors found the site beautiful and engaging, calling it a "must-see." Many were intrigued, and enjoyed getting to see the royal family's real-life items, which were left behind here when they went into exile. Travelers praised the interesting and friendly tour guides – some are already planning their next trip back to the palace.

LxFactory LxFactory free

Lisbon is known for its historic sites perched atop rolling hills. LxFactory still brings old charm, with its 19th-century industrial warehouse setting. However, the feeling here is hip and modern. Housed within this spacious complex are trendy eateries, bars and shops (the quirky Ler Devagar bookstore is a particular favorite among visitors). The vibe here is artistic and bohemian – the area is easily traversed on foot, but has also been called "a city within a city."

Recent visitors enjoyed their time at LxFactory. Travelers marveled at the wealth of dining options, and particularly enjoyed strolling the area in good weather. Despite its removed location (it's located in the Alcântara neighborhood), visitors found a stop here more than worth it for the vintage and handmade items. One reviewer mentioned that on Sundays there is an added market full of individual vendors. Crowds form, so go early on Sunday (by 10 a.m.) to enjoy it fully. Several visitors recommended pairing a visit to LxFactory with a stop in Belém.

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Calouste Gulbenkian Museum (Museu Calouste Gulbenkian) Calouste Gulbenkian Museum (Museu Calouste Gulbenkian)

Less than 75 years old, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum houses a world-renowned collection of art. The late Calouste Gulbenkian, a former oil tycoon and distinguished art collector, amassed 6,000 works of art in his lifetime, donating it all to Portugal upon his death. The diverse selection on display includes art of all kinds from all over the world, including Egyptian statues, European paintings from masters Rubens and Rembrandt, and Chinese porcelain, to name a few.

Recent travelers enjoyed perusing the museum, with many saying the 20-minute trip from the city center was worth it. Visitors not only appreciated the museum's diversity of art, but some were delightfully dumbfounded it all came from one person. Others were pleased with the size of the museum, saying it was large enough to fill a few hours of the day, but still manageable. The architecture and gardens received equally favorable reviews.

Monastery of Jerónimos Monastery of Jerónimos

The Monastery of Jerónimos or the Jerónimos Monastery, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Lisbon's Belém district. Exemplifying Portugal's Manueline style – a highly ornate style of architecture named after the king of the time (Manuel I) – the monastery was built during the Age of Discoveries. Vasco da Gama and his crew spent their last night in Portugal at the site before embarking on their famous journey to India in 1498. During the 17th century, the structure served as a monastery for monks, whose job was to comfort sailors and pray for the king. It eventually became a school and orphanage until 1940.

Today, visitors can explore the grounds at their own pace while admiring the detail of the intricately carved pillars, cloisters and vaulted ceilings. Tourists can also stop by the Chapel of St. Jerome and the tombs, which contain notable Portuguese people in history, including a handful of royals and Vasco da Gama himself. Travelers found the attraction's unique architecture to be stunning, and recommended a visit for that reason alone. However, some travelers complained of long entrance lines, even for those who purchased tickets online in advance. Some reviewers suggested planning your visit for after 2 p.m., when the morning tour crowds have dispersed. Other suggested skipping the monastery altogether and instead suggested spending time in the chapel, which is free to visit.

Oceanarium (Oceanario de Lisboa) Oceanarium (Oceanario de Lisboa)

The  Oceanário de Lisboa  is not just an aquarium, but considering its size, a world in and of itself. The Oceanarium, as it's also often referred to, is the world's largest saltwater oceanarium, holding more than 450 species of sea creatures. Four permanent exhibits represent different habitats that hold the likes of various types of birds, fish, amphibians and mammals. Here, visitors will find the likes of sharks, penguins, rays and sea otters and everything in between. Along with a peek into life under the sea, the Oceanarium also offers a variety of activities, from guided tours to a sleepover with sharks and even a Fado show.

Visitors were blown away by how impressive the aquarium was and suggested stopping by if you need a break from the city's many historic sites. Several reviewers in particular loved the large, central tank, and said the attraction could easily be enjoyed by all ages, and not just children. Travelers advised setting aside at least half a day to see the attraction and warned of large afternoon crowds.

Feira da Ladra Feira da Ladra free

If you're searching for a unique souvenir to take back home, you might want to try your luck at the Feira da Ladra flea market. Located in the Alfama district and spread out across Campo de Santa Clara, the contents of Feira da Ladra can be trash or treasure, depending on what kind of traveler you ask, or what kind of week it is. Either way, you're likely to find some souvenirs, antiques, azulejos (Portuguese tiles), art and a number of second-hand/vintage goods. But the Feira da Ladra isn't your run-of-the-mill flea market. The market is rumored to have been around since the 12th century, with some of the vendors known for selling stolen goods, hence the name  ladra , which translates to "thief" in Portuguese.

Some visitors said the market was only worth a stop if you happen to be in the Alfama area, with some likening it to a car boot sale. Others were pleased with the vintage wares they were able to score.

Carmo Convent Carmo Convent

Carmo Convento is actually a ruin of a 14th-century convent that was destroyed by an infamous earthquake and fire. On Nov. 1, 1755, one of the deadliest earthquakes of all time shook Lisbon. Buildings throughout the city collapsed, including this one. Tens of thousands died – the disaster exacerbated by fires spread by candles lit for All Saint's Day. Today, the ruins stand in the city center as a remembrance of the tragic day. From this darkness – the earthquake was felt far beyond Lisbon, though the city was hit particularly hard – much philosophy and art emerged. Additionally, the event inspired new building in area that is considered to be some of the world's earliest seismically sound construction.

In addition to the convent ruins, the site is also home to the Carmo Archaeological Museum, which was founded in 1864 and was the first museum of art and archeology in Portugal. It displays artifacts from the pre-historic era through the Middle Ages, in addition to a collection of medieval religious and heraldic items. Past visitors were particularly impressed with the mummies and the fact that almost all of the exhibits are labeled in English.

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Lisbon Travel Guide

Lisbon is arguably Western Europe's most underrated capital city. It's also one of the continent's oldest. First founded as a trading port city in 1200 B.C., Lisbon pre-dates Rome. Most of the old city was destroyed in an earthquake in 1755. But today, the "City of Light" is thriving. In the last 50 years its population and annual visitors have more than doubled as the rest of the world discovers what this second city on seven hills has to offer.Indeed, Lisbon checks all the boxes. It's home to colonial architecture, destination museums, and even its own genre of music. Hop on an iconic yellow tram and explore a fortified castle, a bustling waterfront, or a colorful maze of cobblestone streets. There's fun food – think themed trucks and even cereal bars – and fine food – five Michelin-star restaurants. At night, retire to a funky hostel, beautiful boutique property, or a 16th Century five-star hotel.

GMT during the winter (last Sunday in October – last Sunday in March)

GMT+1 during the summer (last Sunday in March – last Sunday in October)

Best Time to Go

Lisbon is a shoulder season destination. The best time to visit is in the spring, March to May, or fall, September to November, when the weather is pleasant. During the winter months, it's often cloudy or raining, and the city can feel like a ghost town. During the summer, peak tourist season, temperatures can be uncomfortably hot, crowds are common, and it can be hard to find accommodations (plus rates are higher).

However, you'll definitely want to visit mid-June if festivals are your thing. Sunday, June 13 is St. Anthony's Day – Lisbon's most beloved holiday and an entire night filled with parades, dancing, and plenty of grilled sardines.

Things to Know

Currency: Euro

($1 USD = .83 EUR; Check the current exchange rate )

Language: Portuguese

I don't speak Portuguese: Nao falo portugues

Where is the…: Onde está

Thank you: Obrigada

Learn more Portuguese phrases

Calling Code: +351 21

Outlets: Portugal uses type F and type C plugs. The U.S. uses type A and B. So, pack an adapter or be prepared to buy one at the airport. Since the voltage in Portugal is 230V you may also need to bring a converter if you're using an appliance that isn't compatible with 230V.

How to Get Around

Trains: Lisbon's trains (CP) which connect to major cities and surrounding towns, are frequent, reliable, and affordable. Tickets can be purchased at stations, online, or on the Comboios de Portugal app. The metro (Metro Lisboa) is just as user-friendly. There are four colored lines. The red line goes all the way to the airport, and single rides cost less than €2. Don't forget to validate your tickets before boarding and hold on to them until your ride is over.

Buses: Lisbon's bus system (Carris) runs 24/7 and includes two electric trams (including the historic yellow trolleys) and a funicular. Single rides are €2.

Taxis: Lisbon's taxis are abundant and certainly affordable, unless you use them during rush hour. Fares depend on where you're going, what time of day you're going, and how much luggage you have with you. Coop Taxis tend to be the most trusted. Always have cash available as credit cards aren't always accepted. Rideshare: Uber and Cabify, a Spanish rideshare company often cheaper than Uber, are both available here. Upon arriving at the airport, follow signs for the Uber pickup location.

Best Hotels

The one palácio da anunciada.

Address: Rua das Portas de Santo Antão, 112-134, 1150-268 Av. Liberdade / Restauradores Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-041-2300 Book Now

Lisbon's newest five-star property, The One Palácio da Anunciada, is housed in a 16th-century palace located in Lisbon's most exclusive neighborhood. After a soft opening in 2019, it's now up and running with 83 well-appointed rooms surrounded by manicured French gardens housing a spa, an outdoor pool, and even a solarium.

Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa

Address: Av. da Liberdade, 185, 1269-050, Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-319-8950 Book Now

Highlights at this five-star hotel located on one of the most expensive avenues in the world include an outdoor pool surrounded by a tropical garden and a chic rooftop bar with city views. The property also has an award-winning seafood restaurant and a luxury spa complete with 24-hour fitness center. Deluxe rooms start at $280/night while the Diplomatic Suite, decorated with pieces that once belonged to the late Portuguese actress Beatriz Costa, starts at $1200/night.

Hotel Britania

Address: Rua Rodrigues Sampaio, 17, 1150-278, Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-315-5016 Book Now

Billing itself as the only surviving original Art Deco hotel in Lisbon, Hotel Britania is a design-forward boutique property straight out of the 1940s. It's located just off of Avenida Liberdade on a quiet street. There are only 33 rooms but all have private marble bathrooms and powerful AC (a real luxury in Lisbon). Rates start around $100/night.

Tesouro da Baixa by Shiadu

Address: R. Dom Duarte 3, 1100-240, Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 91-417-6969 Book Now

An ideal home base for exploring Barrio Alto and Chiado, the tried-and-true Tesouro da Baixa by Shiadu is just a five-minute walk from the main train station, Rossio. Like every Shiadu property in Lisbon (and there are six) accommodations are modern, yet classic, and minimalistic, yet comfortable. Guest reviews are always stellar, if not perfect, and rates start at just $80/night, including breakfast.

Dare Lisbon

Address: R. dos Sapateiros 135, 1100-422, Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-346-1407 Book Now

Dare Lisbon specializes in rooms that feel like home, not hotels. This hospitality company prides itself on its 23 mini apartments each outfitted with a well-equipped kitchenette. Think coffee maker, fridge, microwave, electric cooktop, stick blender, and even a dishwasher. Rooms also include AC; rates start at $120/night (long term rates are available).

The Lumiares Hotel & Spa

Address: 142 Rua do Diário de Notícias 1200-146, Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-116-0200 Book Now

This high-end hotel and spa with luxury apartment vibes is perched on a hill in Barrio Alto. The rooftop restaurant and bar have sweeping views of the city's skyline and serve seasonal, locally-sourced fare. Rooms have high ceilings and are spacious, by European standards. They include kitchenettes or full kitchens and living areas. Rates start at $195/night.

My Story Hotels

Address: Rua dos Condes de Monsanto, 2, 1100-159, Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-886-6182 Book Now

All four My Story Hotels in Lisbon are contemporary, budget-friendly properties housed in recently renovated historic buildings. They're popular with younger crowds who want to be within walking distance of nightlife but not on top of it. Rates start at $80/night, and rooms are mostly singles and doubles.

Best Restaurants

Time out market (upscale food court).

Address: Av. 24 de Julho 49, 1200-479 Lisboa, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-395-1274 Website

Time Out Market is Lisbon's answer to New York City's Eataly. Located in a historic market hall just a stone's throw from the waterfront, it features more than two dozen popup versions of the city's best restaurants and bars. It also hosts special events including cooking classes and is home to an exciting fish, meat, and produce market featuring the freshest ingredients around.

Pasteis de Belem (Portuguese)

Address: R. de Belém 84 92, 1300-085 Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-363-7423 Website

Since 1837 people have been lining up at this beloved Lisbon institution selling baked goods faster than they can bake them. Legend has it the secret recipe for Pasteis de Belem's best-selling sweet custard tarts came from within the Jerónimos Monastery. There's usually a massive line, and sometimes it can take a while to get a table inside. But it's always worth the wait.

Tapa Bucho (Portuguese)

Address: Rua Diário de Noticias n 122 1200-281 Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 91-456-6392 Website

It's hard not to go to town at this tapas bar where there are at least four kinds of croquettes centered around proteins like oxtail and alheira (all served with amazing aolis) and pisco sours so good they deserve a cult following. Reservations are highly recommended because the terrace is small and tables go fast. Portions are quite generous, for the low prices, so keep that in mind as you order.

Barrio Do Avillez (Portuguese, Pizza)

Address: R. Nova da Trindade 18, 1200-303 Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-583-0290 Website

The brainchild of Chef José Avillez, Barrio Do Avillez is a great way to experience food created by the first chef to bring two Michelin stars to a restaurant in Portugal. This culinary complex includes: Taberna, which serves elevated traditional Portuguese fare and the perfect lunch spot; Páteo which specializes in specialty fish and seafood; and Mini Bar, a gourmet gastro bar with bold flavors in small bites. Finally, there's Pizzaria Lisboa, which offers a family-friendly atmosphere and pizzas prepared with 00 flour, San Marzano tomatoes, and mozzarella Fior di Latte.

Augusto Lisboa (Breakfast and Brunch)

Address: Rua Santa Marinha, 26 1100491 Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-887-2746 Website

With its bubblegum pink façade and the line out the door on the weekends, it's hard to miss Augusto Lisboa. This dreamy, details-forward restaurant may only serve breakfast and brunch but it's ranked #2 out of more than 5,000 Lisbon restaurants on TripAdvisor. The complete opposite of a greasy spoon, it serves the freshest ingredients and specializes in an avocado toast you've probably already drooled over on Instagram.

Restaurante Feitoria (International)

Address: Doca do Bom Sucesso 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-040-0208 Website

Restaurante Feitoria, Chef João Rodrigues's ode to Portugal, is located in the Altis Belem Hotel & Spa. Just one look at its inventive "material-themed" menu and it's easy to see why this Michelin-star restaurant is so renowned in the industry. Courses are small (but there are at least eight), and don't expect to walk out without spending at least $150 per person, especially if you partake in the extensive wine list. Reservations are required.

Things to Do

Address: R. do Diário de Notícias 39, 1200-141 Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 96-133-9696 Website

Portugal's signature style of music, fado, is where country meets the blues before colliding with opera. Songs are tragic and haunting, but they're not just played, they're performed. Since its birth in the 1830s, watching fado – which takes place in traditional bars and restaurants like Tasca Do Chico – has become the quintessential Portuguese pastime.

Try ginjinha

Address: Largo de Sao Domingos 8 Rossio, Lisbon 1150-320 Portugal Phone: (351) 21-814-5374 Website

Ginjinha is a sweet cherry liquor invented in Lisbon where today it's practically a staple, like sardines. The most popular place to get a shot is A Ginjinha bar , a walk-up hole-in-the-wall bar next to the bustling Rossio train station. There are no seats, just a small crowd of locals getting their daily dose mingling with curious tourists ready for their first taste.

Mosteiro dos Jeronimos

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Address: Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-362-0034 Website

Recognized by UNESCO, this World Heritage site is as magnificent as monasteries come. It's hard to picture monks taking a vow of poverty in this palatial complex dating back to the 16th century. With its delicate ornate stonework, it's even harder to imagine it surviving the 1755 earthquake, but it did. Several tombs of Portugal's historical elite – from poets to explorers – are found here.

Oceanário de Lisboa

Address: Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisbna, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-891-7000 Website

Although it's not within walking distance of downtown, Lisbon's award-winning aquarium is a must for families and anyone with a remote interest in marine biology. More than 8,000 animals live in its 7 million-liter saltwater tank. Temporary exhibits, including submerged forests by Takashi Amano (the foremost "aquascaper" in the world) are just as memorable.

Best Shopping

Address: Praça do Príncipe Real, 26, 1250-184 Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 96-530-9154 Website

A former 19th-century Arabian palace, EmbaiXada (meaning embassy in Portuguese) is now an elegant mall of sorts committed to selling goods designed by Portuguese artists and artisans. From children's clothing to gourmet gin and organic cosmetics, if it's quality and made with love in Portugal, it can probably be found here.

A Vida Portuguesa

Address: Rua Anchieta 11, 1200-023 Chiado, Lisbon, Portugal Phone: 351-21-346-5073 Website

Specializing in products that have "crossed generations and touched hearts" A Vida Portuguesa is where to go for timeless gifts and souvenirs. Shop for stationary, linens, perfumes, and well-curated kits all sourced in Portugal and sold in packaging so pretty it's a shame to toss it.

Livraria Bertrand

Address: R. Garrett 73 75, 1200-203 Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-347-6122 Website

When it opened in 1732, Libraria Bertrand was just another bookstore. Today, it's the world's oldest operating bookstore according to the Guinness World Records. While there are several Bertrand branches in Lisbon, the original is open seven days a week. It's the perfect place to seek refuge from a rainstorm or to find a large selection of books in English.

Address: Rua Rodrigues Faria, 103, 1300 – 501, Lisbon, Portugal Phone: (351) 21-314-3399 Website

LX Factory is Lisbon's answer to DUMBO. Once an industrial site in the shadow of Lisbon's iconic suspension bridge, it's now a hip district home to eclectic stores, galleries, and restaurants. Think food trucks, street art, and cool concept shops selling everything from chocolate salami to funky reversible lamp shades.

Neighborhoods to Know

Alfama : Boasting some of the best views of the Tagus River, this medieval village (it survived the 1755 earthquake) is perched on Lisbon's highest hill. It's home to Saint George's castle, and is arguably one of the city's most photogenic neighborhoods. Streets are narrow, but not too narrow for the historic 28 Tram which ferries tourists who don't want to deal with cobblestones or stairs.

Bairro Alto : Dating back to the 15th century when artists and authors flocked here in high numbers, this bohemian borough is now a happening scene. But for the most part, the magic only takes place at night. Come during the day to see the Insta-worthy street art. Return after dark for the city's best nightlife, bar-hopping, and dancing.

Chiado : It's hard not to compare this sophisticated neighborhood in the center of Lisbon with one you'd find in Paris or on the Upper East Side. It's far more contemporary than its surrounding districts and home to luxury retailers, elegant theaters, and the city's finest reservation-only restaurants. It also boasts Livraria Bertrand, founded in 1732 and thought to be the oldest operating bookstore in the world.

Belem : Lisbon's most impressive buildings and stateliest parks aren't downtown; they're in Belem. This historic waterfront with an extensive riverside trail was where 15th-century explorers, including Ferdinand Magellan, departed Lisbon to discover the world. The city's most photographed structure, the Tower of Belem, rises out of the river and is only accessible by pedestrian bridge. The neighborhood is also home to beautifully landscaped green spaces, the ornate Jerónimos Monastery and several museums.

Lisbon has four seasons and with the exception of summer, a pretty mild climate. It can be compared to central California's. Temperatures rarely dip below 45°F and typically only climb up to the mid-90s°F in July or August. These months are also the driest. With an average of 13 days of precipitation, November is usually the wettest month. And don't count on seeing snow. It's not uncommon for Lisbon to go half a century or longer without receiving any.

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Lisbon Tours

Stroll Lisbon's, romantic, medieval streets with a knowledgeable local guide.

Find your perfect Lisbon tour

Local Guides offer 527 unique and customizable tours in Lisbon. When are you visiting?

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Lisbon City Tours

Transfer from Lisbon to Porto with stops

Enjoy a full day transfer with stops in amazing cities

Taste of Lisbon walking tour with traditional,...

The perfect combination of tradicional portuguese food with a Tagus,...

Half Day of Best of Lisbon w/ Private,...

Discover Lisbon's main Highlights!

Lisbon Museums / Culture Tours

Half Day Tour Visiting Sintra

Discover the romantic charm of Lisbon's surroundings

Full Day Lisbon & Sintra Private Tour

Enjoy the highlights of Lisbon and its surroundings

Óbidos, Nazaré, Batalha & Fátima Full,...

A journey through castles and monasteries

Lisbon First Time Visitor Tours

Lisbon Kick Starting Private Tour

See Lisbon as a Local and have the first idea from the City

Sights and Food&Wine pairing in Lisbon,...

Lisbon and wine, a match made in heaven! A private walking tour discovering,...

Highlights of Lisbon Tour, a Memorable,...

Explore the main spots of Downtown and Belém area

Lisbon Day Trip / Out of Town Tours

Portuguese Cheese, Tiles & Winemaking,...

How curious are you? Find out on a day trip from Lisbon!

Évora and Monsaraz Full Day Trip to Alentejo,...

Visit the beautiful cities of Évora & Monsaraz and immerse yourself,...

Winter 2023/2024 Special Combo Tour

A combine save with two or tree days tours.

Lisbon Food and Wine Tours

Portugal's Amazing South Multiday Tour

A week tour through the roots, identity and amazing wonders of the,...

Arrábida Natural Park, The 'One in A,...

Traditional Fishing Town, Nature Reserve, Winery Route, an Unforgettable,...

Transfer Porto with Fátima, Coimbra and,...

Porto Unveiled in a luxury 8 seater van. An in depth Perspective on,...

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A Panoramic Luxury Full Day Layover Tour,...

Explore the highlights of this amazing city and it's charmed neighbourhoods

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Discover Palaces and enjoy Ocean Views

Lisbon Private Walking Tour 2 Hours

A true local feeling

Lisbon Religious Heritage Tours

North of Lisbon

Histories and Stories, Nice Beaches and Faith

The Western Beauties

Discover Portugal

Fátima Tour full day

Immersive experience with extra visit to the house's of the sheperds.

Lisbon Youth and Family Tours

Day Trip Tour to Mafra and Ericeira From,...

Explore the Palace & Convent of Mafra, Unesco World Heritage! - the,...

Discover Lisbon, "The City of Light",,...

Best of Lisbon City Highlights - Bélem, Downtown, Alfama, Pastries,...

Family Day Trip to Dinosaurs Park & Óbidos,...

Surprise your children with the Jurassic and Medieval Portugal.

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From Lisbon to Évora. Highlights Walking,...

Explore the secrets of this world heritage town and the impressive,...

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Visit a charming UNESCO World Heritage village and walk across its,...

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Unlock the Lisbon Urban Canvas: Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Tapestry,...

Lisbon Nature and Wildlife Tours

ShorEx Crown Jewels: Sintra and Cascais

From the Mystic Mountain to the rocky coast in half day

Óbidos Village Expert Guided visit, Half,...

Óbidos the village of the Queens, beautifull shops and delicious shops,...

South of Lisbon. The Unknown Part of,...

Arrábida Natural Park and Sesimbra Day Trip

Lisbon Shopping Tours

Kings, Queens & Angels - A Private full-day,...

A historical tour exploring Obidos and either Queluz Palace OR Batalha,...

Shoping private tour

Discover the best shoping deals in Lisbon

Pena Palace & Sintra - Half Day Private,...

Visit the romantic Pena Palace and fall in love with Sintra Old Town.

Lisbon After Dark Tours

Night Photography Walking Tour in Lisbon

Night photography walk through Lisbon's old neighbourhoods with the,...

Old Lisbon At Night & Fado Music Private,...

An experience through the old town by night, with Dinner and Live Fado,...

Sintra by Night Half Day

Sintra's Night Lights Glamour and some Supernatural stories!

Lisbon Adventure / Active Tours

Lisbon Getaway: Tour the Region of Three,...

Wonder at ancient castles, picturesque countryside and sample local,...

Sintra Unveiled

The walk path of a lifetime

Fátima, Nazaré and Sintra

Lisbon shore excursions.

Fátima - The shrine of the world

Private 6 hour Tour to Fátima

Explore the capital of a great empire linked to you! Day Trip from,...

Lisbon Full Day Private Tour with Skip,...

Discover Lisbon in a Day! Jerónimos Monastery, Belém, Alfama & more

Local Guides offer 527 unique (and customizable!) tours in Lisbon.

Lisbon Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best guided tours in lisbon.

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Lisbon; 1) Gastronomic Culture in Ten Tastings - Lisbon Foodie Tour 2) Night Photography Walking Tour in Lisbon 3) Pena Palace & Sintra - Half Day Private Tour from Lisbon 4) A stroll through Lisbon with your private guide 5) Tram, Food and Tiles Private Walking Tour of Lisbon - Half Day

What are the must do things in Lisbon?

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a beautiful and vibrant city with a rich history and a diverse cultural scene. There are many must-do things in Lisbon to make the most of your visit. Here are some of the top recommendations: Explore Belém: Visit the historic district of Belém, home to iconic landmarks such as the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries. Don't forget to enjoy a pastel de nata (Portuguese custard tart) at the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery. Wander Alfama: Explore the historic Alfama neighborhood with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and stunning viewpoints like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Ride Tram 28: Take a ride on the famous Tram 28, which winds through some of the city's most picturesque neighborhoods, offering a unique way to see Lisbon. Visit São Jorge Castle: Explore the São Jorge Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city, to enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon and its historic surroundings. Discover Chiado and Bairro Alto: Stroll through the Chiado and Bairro Alto districts, known for their vibrant cultural scene, boutique shops, and lively nightlife. See the Lisbon Cathedral: Visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), a beautiful Romanesque church that is one of the city's oldest and most iconic landmarks. Lisbon Oceanarium: Explore the Lisbon Oceanarium, one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world, located in Parque das Nações. Alfama Fado Experience: Attend a Fado performance in the Alfama neighborhood to immerse yourself in Portugal's traditional music and soulful storytelling. LX Factory: Visit the LX Factory, a former industrial complex turned into a trendy cultural and creative hub, with art galleries, restaurants, and unique shops. National Tile Museum: Discover the beautiful art of Portuguese tiles (azulejos) at the National Tile Museum. Traverse the 25th of April Bridge: Walk or cycle across the 25th of April Bridge for spectacular views of Lisbon and the Tagus River. Taste Portuguese Cuisine: Savor traditional Portuguese dishes such as bacalhau à brás (codfish), feijoada (bean stew), and pastéis de bacalhau (codfish cakes) at local restaurants. These are just a few of the many things you can do in Lisbon. The city's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene make it a fantastic destination for travellers.

What are the top tours in Lisbon?

Here are some of the top tours in Lisbon, each highly rated with at least 70 reviews! 1) Lisbon's Old Districts - Half Day Tour 2) Full Day Tour of Sintra, Cape Rock, Cascais & Estoril 3) Full Day Tour in Sintra with a local 4) Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais Private Tour 5) The Hills of Lisbon Half Day Tour

How much is a private tour in Lisbon?

The cost of a private tour in Lisbon can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Lisbon typically ranges from around $200 - $600. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customising a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

How much to tip a tour guide in Lisbon?

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Do you need a guided tour of Lisbon?

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Lisbon from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. Whilst English is widely spoken in the tourist areas, a guided tour can help bridge the communication gap and ensure you don't miss out on important information. If you have limited time in Lisbon and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they're remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Can you hire a tour guide in Lisbon?

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Lisbon. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has over 50 local guides in Lisbon who are local experts and offer a wide range of customisable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Where to go for a day trip from Lisbon?

Lisbon is a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding region of Portugal, which is rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Here are some popular day trip destinations from Lisbon: Sintra is a must-visit destination just a short train ride from Lisbon. Explore the enchanting Palácio da Pena, the Moorish Castle, and the beautiful gardens of Quinta da Regaleira. Head to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. Cascais: This charming coastal town offers beautiful beaches, a historic center, and the Boca do Inferno (Hell's Mouth), a unique cliff formation. It's also a great place for a leisurely stroll along the seaside promenade. Nearby Estoril is known for its Casino Estoril, one of the largest casinos in Europe, and beautiful gardens. It's also famous for its association with spies during World War II. Visit the Royal Palace and Convent of Mafra, a grand Baroque palace that includes a basilica, a library, and a famous carillon with 92 bells. Évora: A bit further from Lisbon (about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive), Évora is a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its well-preserved historic center, ancient Roman temple, and the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos). Azeitão: This region is famous for its wineries and the production of Moscatel wine. You can visit wineries for tastings and explore the charming town. Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Arrábida Natural Park, with its rugged cliffs, beautiful beaches, and hiking trails. It's a great place for outdoor activities and nature lovers. Visit the picturesque town of Óbidos, surrounded by medieval walls. It's known for its well-preserved historic center, colorful houses, and the annual chocolate festival. Nazaré: A popular fishing village and beach destination, Nazaré is known for its massive waves and a picturesque old town. Fátima is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world, known for the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima. Explore the historic town of Tomar, known for the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a unique blend of architectural styles. Remember to plan your day trips according to your interests and the season. Some destinations, like the coastal towns and Sintra, are best visited during the warmer months, while others, such as Évora and Tomar, can be enjoyed year-round.

How many days to tour Lisbon?

The number of days you should spend touring Lisbon depends on your interests, the pace at which you like to explore, and the depth with which you want to experience the city. Here are some general recommendations: 2-3 Days: If you're limited on time, a 2- to 3-day visit to Lisbon will allow you to see the most famous landmarks, such as the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Baixa, Belém with its iconic monuments, and enjoy some local cuisine. While you won't be able to delve deeply into the city's culture, it's enough for a taste of Lisbon's highlights. 4-5 Days: This is a comfortable duration for a more thorough exploration of Lisbon. You can explore major attractions and neighborhoods, as well as take a day trip to Sintra or Cascais. This allows for a well-rounded experience of Lisbon and its surroundings. 6-7 Days: With a week or more, you can take your time to explore Lisbon at a leisurely pace. This provides the opportunity to visit lesser-known attractions, enjoy the city's art and music scenes, and partake in local festivals or events. You can also take multiple day trips to other destinations in the region. Beyond a Week: If you have a strong interest in Portuguese history, culture, and gastronomy, or if you want to thoroughly explore Lisbon and the entire region of Portugal, you can easily spend more than a week in Lisbon. This will allow for a deep dive into the city's offerings and the opportunity to visit other cities and regions in Portugal. Keep in mind that Lisbon is a city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. The more time you allocate to your visit, the more you'll be able to experience and appreciate what the city has to offer. However, even a shorter visit can be enjoyable if you plan your time wisely and prioritize your interests.

How much is a 7 day trip to Lisbon from the US?

The cost of a 7-day trip to Lisbon from the United States can vary significantly depending on various factors, including your departure city, travel dates, accommodation preferences, dining choices, and activities. Here's a rough breakdown of potential expenses for a 7-day trip to Lisbon: Flights: The cost of round-trip flights from the US to Lisbon can vary widely depending on your departure city, time of year, and the airline you choose. On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1,500 or more for a round-trip ticket. Accommodation: The cost of accommodations in Lisbon can range from budget hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels. On average, you might spend $70 to $200 or more per night, depending on your choice of lodging. Food: Dining costs can vary based on where and what you choose to eat. You can find budget options at local eateries or enjoy upscale dining. On average, plan for about $25 to $50 per person per day for meals. Transportation: Lisbon has an efficient public transportation system, and you can use trams, buses, and the metro to get around. A 7-day transportation pass can cost around $15. If you plan on taking day trips, budget for additional transportation costs. Entrance Fees: Admission fees to attractions like Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and museums will add to your expenses. Budget around $50 or more for entrance fees to various sites. Entertainment and Activities: The cost of activities, tours, and entertainment will vary based on your interests. Budget anywhere from $50 to $200 or more for activities during your 7-day stay. Travel Insurance: It's important to have travel insurance, which can add a cost of around 5% to 10% of your trip's total expenses. Based on the above estimates, a rough budget for a 7-day trip to Lisbon from the US could range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more per person, excluding international airfare. These are just rough estimates, and your actual expenses may vary based on your choices and preferences. Be sure to research and plan your trip according to your budget and interests.

Where should I stay while visiting Lisbon?

Lisbon offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. When deciding where to stay in Lisbon, consider your interests and the kind of experience you want to have. Here are some popular areas to consider: Baixa is the city's downtown area and a central location. It's known for its grid-like streets, elegant squares, and proximity to major attractions, making it an excellent choice if you want to be close to the city center. Alfama is the historic and oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, known for its narrow winding streets, charming houses, and Fado music. Staying in Alfama provides a unique and authentic Lisbon experience. Bairro Alto: This neighborhood is famous for its nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs. It's a vibrant area with a younger crowd and a thriving arts and music scene. Located between Bairro Alto and Baixa, Chiado is known for its boutique shops, theaters, and upscale cafes. It's an excellent choice for those who enjoy shopping and cultural activities. If you want to be close to Lisbon's iconic monuments, consider staying in Belém. This area is known for landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower. Cais do Sodré: This neighborhood offers a mix of trendy bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It's located along the riverfront and is an excellent choice for those looking for a lively atmosphere. Avenida da Liberdade is one of Lisbon's main avenues, lined with upscale shops, restaurants, and hotels. Staying here offers a more luxurious experience. Estrela: A quieter, more residential area, Estrela is home to the Estrela Basilica and beautiful parks. It's a good option if you prefer a peaceful atmosphere. Located by the river, Parque das Nações is a modern area with contemporary architecture, gardens, and the Lisbon Oceanarium. It's a family-friendly and quieter neighborhood. LX Factory: A former industrial area turned creative hub, LX Factory is known for its trendy shops, restaurants, and cultural events. It offers a unique and artistic atmosphere. The choice of where to stay in Lisbon depends on your preferences and the type of experience you want. Keep in mind that Lisbon has an efficient public transportation system, making it relatively easy to explore the city from different neighborhoods.

What's the best time to visit Lisbon?

The best time to visit Lisbon depends on your preferences and the type of experience you're looking for. Lisbon enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers. Here's a breakdown of the different times of year to visit: Spring (March to May): Spring is considered one of the best times to visit Lisbon. The weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 24°C). The city is in bloom with colorful flowers, and it's a great time for outdoor activities without the intense summer heat. Spring is also an ideal season to explore Lisbon's historic neighborhoods. Summer (June to August): Summer in Lisbon is hot and dry, with average temperatures often exceeding 80°F (27°C) and sometimes rising above 90°F (32°C). It's the peak tourist season, and the city can get crowded, especially around major attractions and beaches. If you enjoy the beach, outdoor dining, and vibrant nightlife, summer is the best time for you. Fall (September to November): Early autumn is another excellent time to visit Lisbon. The weather remains warm and pleasant, and the sea is still suitable for swimming in September. Crowds begin to thin, making it a pleasant time for exploring historical sites and enjoying local festivals. The fall foliage in the city's parks can be particularly beautiful. Winter (December to February): Lisbon experiences mild winters compared to many other European cities, with daytime temperatures usually hovering around 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C). While it's not the warmest time for the beach, it's a quieter period with fewer tourists, which can be a great opportunity to explore museums, galleries, and other indoor attractions. The city is beautifully decorated during the holiday season. Festivals and Events: Consider planning your visit around major festivals or cultural events in Lisbon. Events like the Feast of St. Anthony in June feature lively celebrations, while Lisbon hosts the Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival in November. In summary, the best time to visit Lisbon for most travelers is during the spring (March to May) and early autumn (September to October). During these times, you'll enjoy pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and a great balance of indoor and outdoor activities. However, if you prefer hot summer weather and don't mind the crowds, the summer months (June to August) are also an option, especially if you want to enjoy the beaches and outdoor dining.

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33+ Important Tips for Visiting Lisbon for the First Time

The secret is definitely out: visiting Lisbon, Portugal is an absolute delight!

While this sunny, colorful capital city may have been under the radar a decade or two ago, today it is deservedly popular with travelers near and far.

As beautiful as Lisbon is, though, there are definitely some quirks to keep in mind when visiting–which is why we’ve rounded up the best Lisbon travel tips to keep in mind as you plan your first trip to the “Queen of the Sea”.

As American ex-pats who have spent a year calling Lisbon home (and hosted many family and friends along the way), we have quite a bit of advice for traveling Lisbon well!

Here are our top tips for visiting Lisbon for the first time.

Table of Contents

Tips for Visiting Lisbon’s Top Attractions

Lisbon travel tips for getting around the city, tips for taking day trips from lisbon, tips for visiting lisbon’s restaurants + snack bars, other tips for your first trip to lisbon.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

You don’t necessarily need to go into the Belém Tower.

As you’ve started planning your Lisbon travels, it’s practically guaranteed that you’ve come across photos of the famous Belém Tower along the way.

The tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Lisbon, a prime example of the Manueline architecture that the city is famous for, and is absolutely beautiful.

… but for travelers with only a short trip to Lisbon planned, there’s no reason to go inside.

While the exterior of the tower is definitely worth seeing (it’s gorgeous, free, and quick to visit), the interior is comparatively plain.

Getting to see the details of the tower up close is nice, but the rooms of the tower are empty, you can get equally stunning views from dozens of other viewpoints in Lisbon, and it is far too small to accommodate the number of visitors it gets each day.

If your visit goes as ours did, you’ll end up waiting in line to access each separate level of the tower–and none of them are really worth the wait.

Buy tickets in advance for the most popular attractions.

The top attractions in Lisbon, including the Jerónimos Monastery and Castelo de São Jorge , get extremely crowded, and it will make your life much easier to purchase tickets in advance!

This Lisbon travel tip goes for nearby Sintra, too, especially at the iconic Pena Palace and the dreamy Quinta da Regaleira.

We tend to book most of our tickets for Lisbon in advance through Get Your Guide or Tiqets , both of which are reputable and easy to use.

Shop tickets and tours for visiting Lisbon today!

There’s no reason to wait in line for the Santa Justa Lift.

The striking Santa Justa Lift, designed and built by a student of Gustave Eiffel, is one of the most popular landmarks in the city.

Originally built as public transportation to connect Baixa to Chiado/Bairro Alto, today riding the lift is the definition of a tourist trap, drawing long lines at all hours of the day.

However, if you’re standing in the shady Largo di Carmo, facing the roofless church (which is absolutely worth visiting), you’ll notice a small street to the right that leads along the side of the church.

Follow it, and in less than a minute, you’ll find yourself at the top of the famous Santa Justa Lift!

You can walk out onto the lift for free at this point, and enjoy the exact same views that the visitors waiting in line down in Baixa are waiting for–but without cost or having to wait.

The view is beautiful, too, especially when standing out on the lift and facing Castelo de São Jorge.

Lisbon’s hidden gems are truly worth the effort.

While the city’s top attractions definitely tend toward being very crowded today, there are hundreds of incredible things to do in Lisbon that draw a fraction of the visitors despite being well worth a visit.

A few of our favorites include the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora (beautiful azulejos and incredible views from the roof), the National Museum of the Azulejo (famous yet uncrowded as it’s a bit out of the way), the National Coach Museum , and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum .

The sky is truly the limit when it comes to less-visited museums and monuments in Lisbon, though!

Other incredible options include the National Pantheon, the Ajuda Palace , and the garden of Quinta dos Azulejos.

You can read our guide to Lisbon’s secret spots here .

Don’t buy a Lisbon Card without planning your trip first.

Buying a Lisbon Card is a popular option for people visiting Lisbon for the first time, but we recommend not buying one until you plan your trip to Portugal in a bit more detail!

The biggest reason to buy the card has less to do with the attractions, and more to do with the ease of navigating Lisbon’s public transportation system.

With a Lisbon Card, you’ll be able to travel around with Lisbon’s buses, trams, metro, and trains (including the train to Sintra ) for one price.

This is definitely appealing, but how much actual cash value having a Lisbon Card is worth depends heavily on how much public transportation you plan to use (and whether you’re comfortable buying tickets in a more traditional way).

While the Lisbon attractions included with the card are certainly worth visiting, beyond the Jerónimos Monastery, most of them don’t typically feature on a first-timer’s Lisbon itinerary .

And, they’re not even all in Lisbon!

Alcobaça Monastery and Batalha Monastery, for example, are some of my favorite places in Portugal… and are located more than an hour outside the capital.

We’re certainly not saying that you shouldn’t buy the Lisbon Card –it can be a great fit for some travelers–but don’t assume it’s an obvious advantage, either.

Also, note that while you can purchase the card online, you’ll still have to pick up the physical card during your Lisbon travels before you can redeem it.

Check the Lisbon Card’s prices and inclusions now!

Group your sightseeing by neighborhood.

Many of the Lisbon neighborhoods that travelers like to visit on their first trip to the city are quite spread out from each other.

This is especially true for Belém, which feels completely separate from Lisbon’s center despite being home to some of the city’s most popular attractions.

When planning a trip to Lisbon, be sure to note which attractions are near each other and plan your days based on geography.

For example, planning a day in Lisbon that includes visiting the Castelo de São Jorge, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Carmo Convent back-to-back is a frustrating strategy.

Our recommended 3 day Lisbon itinerary conquers the city neighborhood by neighborhood, making it easier to see more with less time!

… and start at the highest point.

Climbing steep hills is an unavoidable fact of life when visiting Lisbon, but you can give your knees a break by starting at the highest point in any given neighborhood!

A couple of destinations that make great starting points to head downhill from include the Miradouro da Graça, the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara (one of our favorites in the city), and the Castelo de São Jorge.

Don’t expect an interior when visiting Castelo de São Jorge.

Lisbon, and Portugal in general, is lousy with opulent palaces built and decorated to the hilt throughout the centuries… but the famous Castelo de São Jorge is not one of them.

Today, the castle is famous for its views and for the fact that you can stroll around the top of its ramparts, soaking in the views and imagining what once was as you do.

Though the hill that Castelo de São Jorge sits atop is incredibly important to the history of Portugal (to start with, the country was founded on this spot in 1143 when the Portuguese conquered the city from its Islamic rulers), the actual structure on the hill has been rebuilt many times.

That’s not to say that the castle isn’t worth visiting, but don’t expect details like throne rooms or furnishings here (there are, however, lots of peacocks).

Picking a neighborhood and wandering is a great way to visit Lisbon.

While targeted sightseeing is a must if you want to experience the best things to do in Lisbon in a short amount of time, be sure to leave plenty of time in your schedule for wandering, too!

Lisbon’s many neighborhoods are a delight to explore on foot.

Beautiful areas like Alfama, Chiado, Bairro Alto, Belém , Cais do Sodré, and Baixa are lovely, and you’ll no doubt experience them when visiting Lisbon.

If you want to go a bit further afield to wander, though, consider also sampling Campo de Ourique (don’t miss the beautiful Prazeres Cemetery), Estrela (the Jardim da Estrela will forever be one of our favorite places in Lisbon, and the basilica is stunning too), Arroios, Príncipe Real, and Graça.

A sailboat cruise on the Tagus is a great travel experience in Lisbon.

The views of Lisbon from the Tagus are wonderful, and there’s nothing quite like experiencing the city from the water.

Lisbon’s history and culture are deeply tied to the  Tejo  and to the wide open sea that lies beyond it, and relaxing on a sailboat is a fantastic addition to any visit to Lisbon.

Plus, it’s simply lots of fun, and more affordable than you might expect!

Most Tagus River cruises leave from Belém, and you can easily add a cruise to your time there.

Personally, we’re partial to sailboat cruises (as opposed to large tourist boats), and if you can arrange your Lisbon trip so that you can enjoy the Tagus at sunset, all the better.

Book your Lisbon sailboat cruise today!

Most Lisbon churches are free to visit, so be sure to step inside!

While the Lisbon Cathedral and the Carmo Convent (though that one is a museum rather than a working church today) have modest entry fees, virtually every other church in Lisbon is free and easy to enter.

That even includes the stunning Church of Santa Maria de Belém that is attached to the popular Jerónimos Monastery (which holds the tomb of Vasco da Gama, among others).

Some of my favorite churches in Lisbon to visit include the Church of São Domingos, the Church of São Roque (a must for anyone who enjoys over-the-top opulent churches), and St. Anthony’s Church (don’t miss the crypt).

The Lisbon Cathedral is a bit controversial among travelers: historically important and rebuilt several times, the interior is much plainer than many expect, especially considering it is one of the only churches in Lisbon to charge an entry fee.

It’s beautiful, but very different in style to most in the city–if you’re on the fence about it or short on time, you can skip it.

Don’t expect to be able to walk everywhere.

While Lisbon’s various neighborhoods tend to be very walkable in their own right, the city as a whole is fairly dispersed.

You’ll need transportation other than your own feet to travel between many neighborhoods–and luckily, Lisbon has plenty of options!

Lisbon’s taxis are generally plentiful and very easy to use, trams of course are popular, and the metro goes to a fair number of places, too (including the airport, though taking a taxi into the city is faster).

We’re not exaggerating about the hills.

You will absolutely get a workout when visiting Lisbon for the first time and sampling the city’s major sights!

Opt for very comfortable, sturdy shoes with a grip on them, and be prepared to work for your views.

If you’d like to avoid climbing many hills, structure your days carefully and budget for plenty of taxis (rates start at 3.50 and we regularly travel across the city for under 10 Euro).

Lisbon’s funiculars, Bica, Glória, and Lavra (the last being the least touristy) can also help out with the steep climbs in a few places.

The fastest way between Baixa and Chiado is through H&M.

Funiculars aren’t the only way to shave a climb off your route!

The multi-story H&M store on Rua do Carmo has a series of escalators that make for an excellent shortcut between the neighborhoods of Baixa and Chiado, each of which is home to some of the top things to do in Lisbon.

Tram 28 is not necessarily the best way to get around the city.

Long ago, someone wrote that riding Lisbon’s classic Tram 28 was a cheap, easy, and local way to see the best of the city.

This was undoubtedly great advice at the time, but it’s long outdated.

True, the Tram 28 route only costs 3 Euro (or is included with a Lisbon Card ), and trundles right past many of Lisbon’s top landmarks, including past the Praça do Comércio, through Alfama, right by top viewpoints like the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, and more.

On the other hand, it’s ridiculously crowded, the best views of the tram are actually from the outside, and it’s a bit of a magnet for pickpockets these days.

If you love trams, it may be worth riding for the experience–but if you just want to get across Lisbon, there are plenty of other ways to do so.

Taxis are the fastest way to get to the city center from the airport.

There’s a well-organized taxi stand right outside of the arrivals hall at the airport, and it’s the fastest way into the city.

Riding the metro is also doable and more budget-friendly, but it takes quite a bit longer.

Unlike some cities, there is no set fare for a taxi ride from the Lisbon Airport (technically named the Humberto Delgado Airport or Portela Airport) to the city center, however, the fare should run roughly 15 to 20 Euro.

Download FreeNow for calling taxis.

FreeNow isn’t specific to Lisbon, but we use it here all the time!

Think of this app as Uber for official taxi rides.

It’s popular in many cities across Europe and comes in very handy both in Portugal and beyond.

Sintra is wonderful, but it’s not Lisbon’s only day trip option.

When you’re planning a trip to Lisbon, you’ll no doubt hear about a thousand times that you have to take a day trip to Sintra.

Located less than an hour outside of Lisbon, Sintra is a beautiful place, filled with interesting and sometimes downright bizarre palaces.

Once a retreat for wealthy people ranging from Portuguese royalty to British aristocrats to an American socialite, Sintra’s palaces are well worth visiting.

… but they’re also very crowded, and far from the only day trip worth taking from Lisbon!

Honestly, I believe that Lisbon has better day trip options than the vast majority of European cities because there is simply so much variety!

Want a beach town? Go to Cascais.

A stunning hike along the coast? Arrabida Nature Park.

The most beautiful monasteries you’ve ever seen? Alcobaça Monastery, Batalha Monastery, and Tomar’s Convent of Christ are waiting.

A medieval town to explore? Go walk the walls of Óbidos .

I could keep going, but essentially, don’t default to Sintra when planning a trip to Lisbon if another kind of day trip appeals to you more.

Lisbon has more than one train station, so double-check which one you need.

If you’re planning to travel away from Lisbon by train, whether on a day trip or further afield, be sure to check which station you need to leave from!

For example, most trains running from Lisbon to Porto leave from Santa Apolónia Station, while trains to Sintra leave from Rossio Station and trains to Cascais leave from the Cais do Sodre Station.

None of these stations are particularly far from each other, but you don’t want to end up heading to the wrong one during your Lisbon travels!

Trains are excellent, but taxis are often faster.

For many of Lisbon’s nearby day trips, a great compromise–especially when traveling with a group–between the comfortable but often slower trains versus the hassle of parking a rental car can be to take taxis.

You’ll spend a bit more, but you’ll often save quite a bit of time, too!

For nearby spots like Cascais and Sintra, we’ll often take the train on the way to our destination, and then call a taxi or Uber to go home when we’re ready.

Not all trains have a/c, and they often trap heat.

… and when the trains do have a/c, it isn’t necessarily strong enough to cool the trains down to a comfortable temperature!

Lisbon tends to have fairly mild weather, so this isn’t often a problem, but if you happen to be visiting during a heat spell in the summer, keep it in mind when planning day trips.

On hot, sunny days, it can be hotter inside a running train than it is outside.

Don’t plan a day trip to Porto.

We know that trying to decide whether to visit Lisbon or Porto is a hard choice–and we love them both.

Resist the temptation to plan a day trip between them, though!

Even on a high-speed train, the 2 cities are simply too far apart to be good day trips from each other, especially because there are dozens of other worthy places to visit within an hour or 2 of each city.

(That being said, we have received enough questions about this that we have put together a guide on how to take a day trip to Porto from Lisbon for travelers who are determined to go!)

There aren’t beaches within walking distance of Lisbon’s center, but you can reach them.

Despite being located temptingly close to the water, there aren’t beaches in Lisbon’s city center (technically there’s a tiny patch of sand in front of Praça do Comércio at low tide, but it doesn’t really qualify as a beach).

You can reach the many beautiful beaches near Lisbon fairly easily, though!

Costa da Caparica, Estoril, Sintra, and Cascais all have wonderful beaches to choose from.

For a large, tried and true beach very close to Lisbon, Praia de Carcavelos is a local favorite.

A food tour is absolutely worth the effort when visiting Lisbon.

We’re big proponents of food tours around the world: combining traditional local food with a chance to take a walking tour of a city is a fantastic way to get acquainted with a new place!

We’ve taken a few Lisbon food tours over the years, all wonderful, but on your first trip to Lisbon, there’s none that I recommend more highly than  this food and wine tour .

With a convenient starting point that is very close to the Church of São Domingos,  this food tour  is filling, delicious, and informative.

Best of all, it focuses primarily on introducing you to classic Lisbon cuisine, which will help you with ordering in restaurants for the rest of your time in Portugal.

Perhaps the biggest endorsement we can offer is that we have returned to several of the included establishments since, including bringing our friends and family to some of them when they visit Lisbon!

Book your Lisbon food tour  today!

Don’t eat a francesinha in Lisbon if you’re also visiting Porto.

There’s probably no more (in)famous Portuguese sandwich than the francesinha, which is essentially what happens when you take a croque-monseiur and ask “you know, how can we make this dramatically more unhealthy?”

Bread, ham, sausage, steak, more sausage, cheese, more bread, all smothered in a tomato and beer sauce: these are the general ingredients behind the francesinha.

The sandwich is generally served with fries and sometimes topped with a fried egg–and yes, it’s quite gluttonous.

Is it worth trying when in Portugal? Sure, once in a very long while.

If you’re also heading to Porto, though, skip the francesinha while in Lisbon.

While you can find them on menus here, the sandwich was invented and is much more common in Porto–you’ll find plenty of delicious options up there!

Be cautious with port (and ginjinha ).

Port is delicious, well worth sampling while in Portugal, and very strong.

At 20% alcohol (as opposed to around 12% on standard wine drunk in the USA), it is very easy to overindulge in port’s sweet taste without realizing it, even if you’re used to drinking.

Keep an eye out as you indulge in Portugal!

This goes for ginjinha , too (around 18% alcohol content), but as ginjinha is served in tiny cups and is treated more like a spirit, it’s not quite as easy to overdo as port is.

The key to appreciating pastéis de nata is eating them all.

More or less every bakery in Portugal has its own taking on the iconic pastel de nata , and trying a wide variety is a must when visiting Lisbon!

Some of the most popular bakeries include Pastelaria Santo António, Manteigaria, Confeitaria Nacional, Fábrica da Nata, and of course, the iconic and original Pastéis de Belém.

Everyone has their own favorites, and they can change from day to day, but you won’t go wrong with a pastel de nata (or 2, who’s counting?) from any of these spots.

Don’t forget to sprinkle the top with cinnamon and/or powdered sugar at least once!

Everyone has their own opinion on the sprinkling, too, but during your first trip to Lisbon, we’d recommend trying a bite each way.

… but at Pastéis de Belém in particular, consider getting a table.

The iconic Pastéis de Belém is known for its extremely long lines, but here’s the thing: the line for table service is generally much shorter than the one for takeaway orders!

And, as a bonus, it’s more fun to eat in the dining room!

The interior is spacious, allows you to order a drink, and the building itself is also fun to walk through (you may even catch a glimpse of people hard at work in the kitchen cooking up an endless number of pastéis de nata ).

Alternatively, if you are visiting Lisbon for a longer period of time and aren’t squeezing lots of attractions into each day, consider heading to Pastéis de Belém on Mondays, when the nearby Jerónimos Monastery is closed and therefore the Belém neighborhood as a whole is much quieter.

We once waited less than 5 minutes for a box of pastéis de nata to takeaway when visiting on a Monday!

Make reservations for dinner.

When it comes to dinner, Lisbon is a city that loves its reservations.

If you have your eye on eating in a particular place, be sure to make a reservation in advance!

Generally, reserving a table the day before or even during lunch service the day that you plan to eat dinner there is fine.

However, if you have somewhere particularly popular in mind or if you’re heading out on a weekend, consider booking a bit further in advance.

… and don’t plan to eat early.

People in Lisbon don’t eat as late as, say, those in Madrid , but they still tend toward eating on the late side!

Most restaurants open for dinner around 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM, and they won’t really start to fill up until after 8:00 PM.

Bring very sturdy shoes.

Not only does walking in Lisbon require climbing lots of hills, but it’s also a bit hard on your feet in other ways.

The distinctive Portuguese pavement (or  calçada portuguesa ) that you’ll see throughout the city offers its challenges: these walkways are both beautiful and a bit of a hazard in the rain.

Here’s the thing… they’re  incredibly  slippery when wet, especially if they happen to have fallen leaves sitting on them.

Watch your step, especially on hills, and opt for shoes with some grip on them!

When it doubt, take a ticket.

In Portugal, it’s very common to use a ticket-based system rather than a traditional line/queue in order to serve customers.

If you see several people standing around in a shop, look around for a ticket machine: that’s how you wait your turn.

You’ll see this everywhere from train stations to butcher shops to banks when visiting Lisbon, Portugal.

Don’t stay in Bairro Alto or Cais do Sodré unless you’re looking for nightlife.

Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré are popular, centrally located neighborhoods with plenty of hotels and hostels… and they’re also the center of much of Lisbon’s nightlife.

If your value peace and quiet after dark, these are not the right neighborhoods for you to stay in!

Make note of whether your hotel has air conditioning and/or heat.

Lisbon’s typically mild climate means that not all hotels (especially budget hotels) have air conditioning or heat–but you may want it!

That’s not solely because of temperature control, either.

For example, Lisbon struggles with dampness, mildew, and mold in many of its buildings over the winter months.

It’s not a huge problem for visitors, but if you’re concerned about dampness in your room or you have allergies, it’s best to keep it in mind when deciding where to stay in Lisbon.

Learn a few Portuguese phrases before visiting Lisbon.

While you’ll find plenty of English speakers in the city, it’s still a good idea to learn a few Portuguese phrases before your trip to Lisbon!

Not only is it polite, but it can also be helpful (in our experience, taxi drivers, for example, rarely speak English in Lisbon).

A simple por favor (please) and obrigado/obrigada (thank you from a male speaker/thank you from a female speaker) can go a long way when visiting Lisbon!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

8 thoughts on “33+ Important Tips for Visiting Lisbon for the First Time”

Nicely done, I appreciate you have some uniques tips here compared to other blogs (the one about being careful on the Portugese pavement was very helpful). Thanks!

Thanks, Justin! Hope you have a great time in Lisbon. 🙂

One of the best blogs out there. Thank you for the wealth of information.

That’s great to hear, thank you! Hope you have a great time in Lisbon 🙂

What a wonderful source of information — thank you! My girlfriend and I are planning a trip to Lisbon in March. It’s our first time there and we’re wondering what part of the city is best for our accommodation. We plan to do lots of walking and would like to be pretty central. I spotted something interesting in the old part of the city and wonder if that might be a reasonable location. Any advice would be SO appreciated!

Thanks so much, Susanna!

As far as where to stay, there are lots of good options. We go over the neighborhoods in a bit more detail on the “where to stay” section of our itinerary posts: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-lisbon-itinerary/

Short answer: Baixa is by far the most accessible (central, lots of transport options, easy to get around), but it is also the most unapologetically touristy area. Alfama, the more traditional old town, is beautiful and central but not quite as convenient transport-wise due to the steep hills. Chiado is great if you want something close but not *too* close to the action, and Bairro Alto is best if you’re planning to join in on the nightlife (ie, don’t mind noise).

Hope you guys have a wonderful trip!

Thank you so much for all your helpful articles about Lisbon! By the way, do you know if we can get a bus from Oriente to Fatima? Since we’re going on a holiday, how do we book tickets in advance? Thank you!

As far as I know, buses to Fatima leave from the Sete Rios train station, so you’ll first need to travel from Oriente to Sete Rios before hopping on the bus.

You can book bus tickets in advance here: http://www.rede-expressos.pt (this is the Rede Expressos bus company website, which has an English version).

Hope you have a wonderful trip!

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Vacations in Lisbon

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Most popular lisbon flight and hotel deals, last minute vacation packages to lisbon, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in lisbon, tips for finding lisbon package deals.

• There are loads of types of vacations in Lisbon and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $376; Family vacation $335; Romantic vacation $428; Luxury vacation $412; Budget vacation $294.

Why should you book a vacation package to Lisbon?

In short, it's a rewarding place to visit, but it can be costly. That's where vacation packages to Lisbon can help. By mixing flights, accommodation and extras like car hire, exploring Portugal's capital can be affordable and exciting in equal measure.

When should you book a vacation package to Lisbon?

Spring (March through May) is a fabulous time to visit Lisbon, with bright, often warm weather and relatively sparse crowds. Summer is often wickedly hot - which is great for sun lovers, but it's busy as well. Try December or January for inexpensive rates and surprisingly good weather much of the time.

Where should you stay in Lisbon during your vacation?

For any vacation type in lisbon:.

The Pestana Palace Lisboa has it all: luxury ambiance, attentive staff, a couple of swimming pools and a to-die-for city center location in a 19th century palace. The 312 Airport Bus ges travelers there in just under an hour.

The Sana Metropolitan is everything tourists could wish for. Located in the relaxed student area of Sete Rios, it's close to Lisbon Zoo, which could be handy for families, and offers solid 4-star accommodation. It's also really convenient for the airport, being less than 20 mins away via the 731 bus.

For family vacations in Lisbon:

The Novotel Lisboa is a great option for families who need to cut their travel costs but still want a premium vacation experience. It's near the excellent Gulbenkian Museum (and the Metro stop of the same name) and the pool, secure parking and free wi-fi should appeal. The airport is 30 mins away by bus or taxi.

Slightly out of town, the Olissippo Marques de Sa is located in an upmarket, quiet neighborhood, a short drive or Metro ride from Lisbon's central attractions. Babysitting services are available, and the hotel is just 15 mins from the airport by taxi.

For romantic vacations in Lisbon:

Let romance bloom under Portuguese skies by staying at the Hotel Acores Lisboa - a cosy hotel with an excellent Mediterranean restaurant and comfortable rooms with free slippers for every guest. Subways get there from the airport in 30 mins.

Situated just outside Lisbon, Aldeia dos Capuchos Golf & Spa is a real romantic retreat. There's a relaxing spa and golf courses next door, a Middle Eastern inspired eatery and large apartments with LCD TVs. Taxis from the airport will take 18 mins or so.

For luxury vacations in Lisbon:

One of Lisbon's most popular 5-star hotels, the Altis Avenida offers amazing cityscapes from its panoramic restaurant and has an attractive 1940s appearance which fits the upscale service. Shuttle buses or taxis run from the airport in just 15 mins.

At the heart of the Old Town, the HF Fenix Urban delivers everything fans of luxury travel demand. It has a superb location for theater-goers or art lovers, and 148 beautifully furnished rooms. Expect taxis to take 20 mins or less from the airport.

For budget vacations in Lisbon:

The Hotel Roma offers comfort and great service, but bargain prices. You can relax in a spacious lounge, dine at two restaurants and enjoy fast free wi-fi, and it's all just 2.6 miles from the airport, so getting there takes a few moments by bus or taxi.

The highly-rated Lisboa Tejo is very close to attractions such as the Santa Justa Elevator and works hard to create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, offering bright, high-ceiling rooms, including some cavernous bathrooms. Expect the 5 mile transfer from the airport to take 15-25 mins by car.

Where to stay in Lisbon

Lisbon vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

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Self Guided Walking Tour Itineraries for 3 Days in Lisbon

If you’re visiting Portugal’s capital, we think 3 days in Lisbon should be your minimum to really enjoy the city.

We had the opportunity to stay and explore Lisboa for a full month and absolutely loved it. To help you plan your Lisbon trip, we narrowed down the best sights to a 3 day itinerary through three different self-guided walking tours.

Updated: April 2023. Originally published: Fall 2017.

Using Our Lisbon Self-Guided Itinerary: Your Options

Though very hilly, Lisbon is very walkable, and we hope you can use this guide to have 3 perfect days in Lisbon. But don’t worry if you only have one or two days in Lisbon.

You can still fit everything from the three itineraries into two days , provided you’re in good shape and don’t care to spend time at museums or attractions with long lines.

If you’re limited to one day in Lisbon, then we’d recommend prioritizing the first two itineraries (the green and blue points on the map).

Here’s a quick look at what’s included in this post:

– Essential tips for transportation and walking in Lisbon – 3 self-guided itineraries for walking through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods and main points of interest, plus 4 bonus attractions if you have more time – Lisbon walking tour map (get your own copy of our map, download by e-mail) – Recommendations for the best area to stay in Lisbon for sightseeing

* Get access to our Lisbon walking map here *

What travel restrictions and rules are in place in Lisbon? Find post-pandemic travel updates for Lisbon here: What you need to know about Lisbon travel right now

Video: Glimpses of Lisbon in 38 Seconds

We put together this short video to give you a quick taste of Lisbon, Portugal. We took a lot more photos than video, so this really just scratches the surface!

Prefer a guided walking tour of Lisbon?

We can personally recommend the following local-led tours:

– Get Lost Go Local : laid-back private walking tours with Nuno that focus on local spots tourists don’t typically see  – Culinary Backstreets : foodie tours that focus on neighborhood history and authentic culture (use discount code INTLTRVL for 5% off )

What you need to know about transportation and walking in Lisbon

Before we dive into our 3 day itinerary for Lisbon, there are a few things you should know to have the best experience.

Lisbon is a very walkable city, but it’s also very hilly. We exercise daily so the steep inclines and endless stairs in this City of Seven Hills weren’t a problem, but we know they’re a challenge for some.

Folks with mobility issues will sometimes be able to find public elevators or funiculars (fees may apply) to help overcome the changes in elevation when getting from one place to another.

It’s also important to have shoes with some degree of traction on the soles because many of the sidewalks are made from smooth limestone rocks that can get slippery . If you’re headed downhill, be extra careful on the white rocks!

If you’re doing our 3 days in Lisbon itinerary to a T, then you’ll need to take public transit at least twice – to and from Belem on the third day.

If you plan to do additional sightseeing, like the optional ride on the historic tram 28 on day one and visiting some of our bonus points of interest, then you might want to consider a public transit pass instead of paying per journey.

Lisbon’s public transportation includes underground and above ground metros, buses, historic trams, new electric trams, funiculars, ferries, and regional trains.

You can purchase a rechargeable Via Viagem transit card which works on all of these transit options – but note that you can only have one “type” of ticket on your card at a time. Pre-paying on the Via Viagem card will give you  a discount on the fare you would pay onboard (and getting tickets on board isn’t always an option).  Click here to learn more about Via Viagem cards.

If you’re planning to take public transportation as well as visit some museums or other paid attractions, then you can save time and money with the Lisbon card .

This pass gives you unlimited rides on public transportation and free entry to 20+ museums for a period of 24-, 48-, or 72 hours, plus discounts at various vendors. Read our full review of the Lisbon card here.

> > Click here to order your Lisbon Card <<

Where to stay in Lisbon

The explosion of tourism in Lisbon has had an unfortunate effect  on housing in the city. New hotels and vacation rental companies have bought out historic properties and driven up housing prices, pushing out many locals who can no longer to afford to live in their old neighborhoods.

Please be conscientious as you choose your accommodations and support small, locally owned businesses whenever possible.

In our opinion, the best areas to stay are within 1.5 miles of Praça do Comércio where you can walk to just about everything. The closer in you are, the fewer hills you’ll probably have to climb. Of course, public transit is also an option if you stay further out.

We found a locally-owned Airbnb apartment near the Intendente metro station. It was a nice, downhill walk to the town center through a multi-cultural neighborhood.

Other neighborhoods like Alfama, Baixa, Bairro Alto, and Rossio are very nice but may be a bit more spendy. We know several people who enjoy staying in the Belem area, though it requires more time on the metro or tram to visit most attractions.

Read next: Where to Stay in Lisbon

* Get access to our Lisbon walking maps here *

Day One: Lisboa Centro Historico Walk

The first day’s itinerary covers much of Lisbon’s historic center. This walking tour can be made in a loop, starting at any point, and is just as effectively done in reverse.

Alternatively, you can ride the popular Tram 28 from its initial stop on Praça Martim Moniz (p raça , meaning plaza or main square), which passes through Alfama (and most of day 2’s itinerary) before heading west.

The trams get very crowded in the tourist district and even the waiting line at the first stop can get quite long by mid morning. It’s highly recommended to go first thing in the morning and grab a seat at the initial stop.

You can ride Tram 28 as far as Campo de Ourique, but the market opens later in the day, so I would recommend getting off at the Assembly of the Republic if you want to check out Flor da Selva’s coffee roastery (an option stop, depicted in yellow). Otherwise, get off at Praça Luís de Camões.

Tip: It’s cheaper to pre-pay (charge your transit card in advance) at a metro station than to pay the full fare onboard the tram.

1. Rossio Station – Lisbon City Center

Rossio station and the nearby metro stop with the same name, are a central hub for transportation in and around Lisbon.

From here, you can either enter the train station and take the escalators up to reach the street, Calçada do Carmo, and follow that to Convento do Carmo. Or you can stay more or less at sea level and find your way to Rua do Carmo, continuing until you see the Elevador de Santa Justa in one of the side alleys. You’ll know it when you see it!

2. Elevador de Santa Justa

Rua do Carmo is also a nice street to explore for shopping.

If you prefer not to take the elevator, you can hike up nearby streets to reach the old convent. Then from the convent, you can get a peek at the top of the elaborate elevator through the Bellalisa Elevator Restaurant’s rooftop deck.

3. Convento do Carmo

This is one of the best examples in the city of just how devastating the earthquake was to the city. You can even see how the arched doorway around the side was split and repaired.

From the convent and elevator, feel free to explore the grid of streets that make up Lisbon’s tourist center as much or as little as you like. There are plenty of shops and restaurants catering to tourists.

This area gets quite crowded so we tended to avoid it. Just eventually make your way to Rua Augusta so you don’t miss the next stop.

4. Arco da Rua Augusta

For a view of the river and the plaza, you can take a lift up to the clock and climb stairs to the top (3.50 euros, free with Lisbon Card ).

5. Praça do Comércio

6. A Vida Portuguesa Gift Shop

This carefully curated made-in-Portugal shop showcases high quality products created in Portugal. Forget the cheap trinkets shops that can be found on every corner of Lisbon.

This store has four locations throughout town, and it’s the only souvenir shop you’ll need. From stationary to handcrafts to foodstuffs, the best of the best is here.

Even if you’re not shopping, take a peek inside to admire Portuguese artistry.

7. Manteigaria and Praça Luís de Camões

There’s no seating at this location, so order your pasteis to go, and enjoy them fresh and warm while people-watching on the plaza.

The narrow streets directly North of Praça Luís de Camões are full of charming little restaurants of the Chiado neighborhood . Feel free to wander back and forth as you make your way uphill toward the viewpoint.

8. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

Below the  miradouro is a funicular that we’ll follow from the top of the hill, Bairro Alto, to the neighborhoods down below.

9. Ascensor da Glória

We preferred to walk and take photos of the murals that line the path.

Once you reach the bottom, you’ll see the big Praça dos Restauradores out in front of you. Cross the square to reach another tasty treat…

10. Fábrica da Nata

Be sure to check the workshop window to catch the pastries being made. At the time of this writing, pasteis are 1.20 euro each.

Bonus: Mercado da Baixa

One last place to check on your walking tour is the Praça da Figueira, which sometimes has a temporary craft and/or food market set up in the middle of the square.

Day Two: Miradouros and Alfama Walk

This walking tour itinerary would be best to do on a Tuesday or a Saturday when the giant Feira da Ladra market is open. Again, you can really start at any point and follow it in either direction.

1. Miradouros: Nossa Senhora do Monte & Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen

2. Feira da Ladra Market

3. Pantheon

4. Miradouro de Santo Estêvão, Tiled Fountain and Houses

5. Muralha Moura and Tiled Courtyard

6. History of Lisbon Mural

Want to learn more about Lisbon’s street art from a local expert? Book this 3-hour Lisbon Street Art Tour >

7. Miradouro das Portas do Sol (2) and Santa Luzia

8. Lisbon Cathedral

9. Teatro Romano & Museum

10. Open Air Neighborhood Portrait Exhibit

11. Snacks at Casa Independente or Seafood at Cervejaria Ramiro

We have so much more to tell you about all these great places on the day 2 and day 3 itineraries. It’s all in our interactive map, which is available in our upgraded Lisbon Map + Trip Planner Pack .

Day Three: Belém and LX Factory

If you’re staying in central Lisbon, you’ll want to take public transportation out to Belém (it’s also nice and flat along the river if you prefer to ride a bike). It was easiest for us to take the modern electric tram from Praça da Figueira (it’s initial stop) and ride it to the Largo da Princesa stop, just a couple blocks North of the Belém Tower.

Tip: Tram fares are cheaper if you load your Via Viagem card from a metro stop rather than buy onboard the tram – or get unlimited free access with a Lisbon Card .

There’s a long walk from Belém to the LX Factory, but fewer places to visit and fewer changes in elevation than the other days. You can always hop on a bus or tram between the two ends of this itinerary, if you prefer. And if entrepreneurial-hipster-urban revival spaces aren’t really your thing, you can always skip the LX Factory.

Note that the LX Factory hosts the LX Market on Sunday afternoons, so when possible, we would suggest completing this walking tour on a Sunday for the best experience.

1. Torre de Belém

2. Monument to the Discoverers

3. Jerónimos Monastery & Church

Visit the main chapel for free, but the popular monastery has an entrance fee and lines can get long. If you have the Lisbon Card , visiting the monastery is free. Or you can buy an entrance ticket in advance .

4. Pasteis de Belém

5. LX Factory

6. Village Underground

Our Top Tips for Intentional Travel in Lisbon

• Try to make a local connection , whether it’s meeting a friend-of-a-friend you find through social media, staying with locals, or hiring a local guide (see below)
• Shop at locally owned, independent businesses rather than familiar chains like Starbucks or Walmart
• For more guidance, see:  how to have authentic, meaningful travel experiences in touristy areas  and our simple rules for intentional travel series .

For further reading:

– A Self-Guided Sintra Day Trip: Hiking Sintra’s Palaces – What Not to Miss in Lisbon (On A Budget) – Where to stay in Lisbon

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“You can purchase a rechargeable Via Viagem transit card which works on all of these transit options – but note that you can only have one “type” of ticket on your card at a time.”

But my understanding is that you can also load it simply with cash (the “zapping” option), which allows you to use the card with any kind of transport. Is this so? I’d like to know for sure before I buy one! Thanks, *RON*

Thanks for your question, Ron. Yes, zapping or pay-as-you-go is indeed an option now. It is valid on buses, trains, trams, funiculars, the metro and ferries. There’s a minimum top up of 3 euros. If you plan to make more than five single trips per day, a daily pass is still the cheapest option. Also note that you won’t get a refund for unused zap credit on the card. The one type at a time still applies as well. I.e., once you’ve chosen zapping (or day pass or single tickets), you cannot change to another type of fare until the previous one is used up on the card.

so great Walking Tour Itineraries for 3 Days in Lisbon. i will try as you!

Good overview

These are some great ideas for places to stop by, and how to get the most out of your visit. Very thorough and insightful. Thanks!

Thanks so much!

In the article you mention best places to stay but I cannot find these in the whole article.

Hi Emma. Thank you for visiting and for catching that missing info! We had something drafted but I’m not sure what happened. Just updated the article with our advice on where to stay.

Great info ! Ty!

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25 Tips for Your First Trip to Lisbon, Portugal

By Brianna | April 18, 2018

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Lisbon, Portugal seems to be on everyone’s travel radar these days. Europe’s second oldest capital is equal parts grit and grandeur with both a timeless appeal and modern allure. Lisbon has centuries of history and tradition but is also fiercely independent with a creative streak which makes it one of the most captivating cities in Europe. With so much to see, do and eat planning to travel to Lisbon can be a little daunting, but armed with these tips you can make your first trip to Lisbon one to remember.

This post contains affiliate links, when you make a purchase or book a hotel through these links the Casual Travelist receives a small  commission that helps support this site at no additional cost to you.

1.Arriving to Lisbon

The Lisbon Portela Airport is Portugal’s main international hub and is well serviced by over 30 airlines. For the most direct way to reach your hotel taxis and Uber are plentiful and costs apporoximately 15 Euro. The most affordable ways to get to Lisbon’s city center are the Metro ( a 25 minute trip on the red line connecting through Saldanha station) or by bus with multiple bus routes serving the city. Check Lisbon Airport’s site for the lastest route information. Visitors from the EU, Britain, Canada and the US do not need a visa, check Visit Portugal for the latest entry requirements.

2.Transportation in Lisbon

Public transportation in Lisbon is decent but not as good as other European capitals. The VivaViagem card is reusable (and offers discounted fares vs. single fare tickets) and can be used for trams, buses, trains and the metro. Taxis, tuk-tuks and Uber are also widely available.

3. Money in Portugal

As part of the EU Lisbon uses the Euro, but compared to other European capitals your money goes far here making Lisbon a great destination for the budget traveler. ATMs are plentiful and most businesses accept credit cards. Beer or a glass of wine can be had for as little as 2 Euro, a quick sandwich for less than 5 Euro, casual menu del dia for 8 Euro and sit down dinners from 15 Euro.

4.Weather in Lisbon

Weather in Lisbon is fairly moderate with warm summers and cooler,wetter winters. Average high temperatures from June-August range from 80-90 degrees F (25-30 degrees C) while daytime temps in December-February average around 55 degrees F ( 13 degrees C) but are typically wetter than other times of the year. Spring and autumns are glorious with sunny days and average temperatures in the 70s F (22-26 degrees C).

5. Accommodations in Lisbon

Lisbon has a wide range of accommodations from budget hostels to boutique inns and luxury hotels. Renting an apartment is an increasingly popular option but with the popularity of Lisbon as a travel destination many apartment owners are opting to rent through short term sites like Airbnb instead of the traditional long term rental. This unfortunately has priced a lot of locals out of the center of Lisbon.

>Hostels in Lisbon  

>Boutique Hotels in Lisbon

>Luxury Hotels in Lisbon

6. Lisbon has hills. Seven of them.

Like Rome, Lisbon is a city of seven hills and no matter which direction you go it feels like you are always walking up. While I am more than happy to walk these hills (mainly so I can justify eating all the pastel de nata), the people of Lisbon have developed a few easier ways to traverse these steep hills including its famous trams and even an elevator in the middle of the city ( I’ll have more on these shortly).

Itinerary for Four Days in Lisbon

7. Make sure to wear good shoes

Lisbon’s sidewalk mosaic tiles are gorgeous but also quite slick. Be sure to wear shoes with good tread to avoid taking a spill.

8.Lisbon trams

Perhaps no other image is more associated with Lisbon than a yellow tram climbing the cobblestoned hills past historic tiled buildings (I may or may not have taken over 100 pictures of trams during my visit). Trams are a part of Lisbon’s public transport and can be a great way to get from point A to point B. Tram #28 is especially popular with tourists as it goes pasts several of Lisbon’s most popular sights however it can be quite crowded with wait times to board at over an hour. Tram #28’s popularity with tourists has also made it quite popular with pickpockets as well.

9. For the best views in Lisbon follow signs for Miraduoros

If you see a sign leading the way to a Miraduoro it would be a good idea to follow where it goes. These scenic overlooks can be found throughout Lisbon. For views overlooking the red tiled roofs of the Alfama district and the Tejo River head to Miraduoro Portas do Sol; or check out the Miraduoro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara near Barrio Alto for great views and people watching.

10. Take in Lisbon’s beautiful sunset views

More than any other city I’ve been to it seems like much of Lisbon was built solely for taking in amazing sunset views. Join the locals and end your day taking in some of the best sunsets in Europe.

Lisbon Neighborhoods

The Alfama district is a beautiful maze of cobblestone alleys, cozy squares, terracotta tiled roofs and surprises around every corner. Lisbon’s oldest and most traditional neighborhood was untouched by the earthquake of 1755 and today you’re still likely to the sounds of fado echoing through the alleys as you pass ladies hanging their laundry out to dry but you’ll also find Lisbon’s creative spirit on display in the form of colorful street art. The Alfama District is home to the 11th century Sao Jorge Castle and the Se Cathedral, which has been serving Lisbon’s catholic population since 1150.

12. Barrio Alto

A quiet residential neighborhood by day the Barrio Alto comes alive once the sun goes down. Bistros, bars and clubs keep the Barrio Alto buzzing late into the night.

13. Cais do Sodre

Once a seedy area frequented by hard-drinking sailors Cais do Sodre is now home to trendy bars and cafes. Be sure to stop by the Time Out Market and the Mercado da Ribiera to taste the best of Lisbon’s contemporary and traditional flavors.

To the west of downtown Lisbon lies Belem, once the port area for Lisbon and departure point for Portuguese explorers during the Age of Exploration. A visit to Belem is one of the top things to do in Lisbon . The Tower of Belem (which in my opinion would make an excellent Game of Thrones filming location) has been seeing off explorers since the 16th century. Nearby the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos is an intricate Unesco World Heritage site with fantastical architecturl details. Belem is also home to Lisbon’s museum district including the contemporary MAAT ( Museum for Art, Architecture and Technology).

To reach Belem take the train or tram 15E from Cais do Sodre.

15.Chiado/Baixia

Located between Barrio Alto and Alfama the neighborhoods of Chiado and Baixia are Lisbon’s upscale neighborhoods. Chiado is artistic, with grand cafes, chic art galleries and a proud literary history. This is also where you’ll find some of Lisbon’s most beautiful architecture including the stunning Carmo Convent, a medieval convent that was destroyed in the earthquake of 1755 whose facade is beautiful and timeless. Baixia is home to wide leafy boulevards lined with tony boutiques and the Elevator de Santa Justa, a wrought iron lift that connects Chiado and Baixia. A popular tourist attraction, waits to ride the elevator can be over an hour. Snap a picture and go on your way.

Food and Drink in Lisbon

16.food in lisbon.

With a focus on simple, fresh ingredients food in Lisbon may be the most underrated cuisine in Europe. With miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean Lisbon is a seafood lovers paradise (more on that below); but carnivores should be sure to sample porco preto , Portugal’s beloved black pork. These Iberian pigs eat a diet of acorns from the cork oak trees that thrive in the Alentejo countryside producing pork with a distinctly nutty taste. Also not to be missed is presunto , a silky dry-cured ham that in my opinion is better than Spain’s jamon iberico. Caldo Verde is a simple but comforting classic Portuguese kale soup. I believe a food tour is a great way to get to know a city and its cuisine in a short amount of time, join one of the culinary walking tours with Backstreet Eats.

What to eat in Lisbon

17. those appetizers aren’t free.

It’s common for waiters to bring out a little plate of nibbles (known as couvert ) at the beginning of the meal that usually includes olives, bread and cheese but be aware it’s not a freebie. To avoid being charged politely send the plate of goodies back untouched.

From simply grilled sardine and freshly fried octopus to hundreds of ways to prepare cod (bacalhau) Lisbon is without a doubt one of the best cities for seafood lovers. Lisbon also elevates canned seafood to an art form. Colorful tins contain oil packed sardines, tuna, mackerel and smoked eel that is worlds above that sad can of tuna sitting in your pantry and make for a great souvenir to get in Lisbon .

19. Eat all the pastel de nata (and other pastries)

When you’re in Lisbon you really need to make it your mission to eat as much pastel de nata as humanly possible. This creamy, egg yolk-based custard tart is ubiquitous throughout Lisbon. The guide books will tell you to go to Pasteis de Belem, which has been serving up flaky tarts since 1837 but can also have up to a two hour wait. Instead get your tart fix at Manteigaria, a cozy art deco pasteleria in the Barrio Alto neighborhood. Aside from pastel de nata you will find bakeries on every corner filled with a diverse variety of Portuguese pastries. Be sure to pair your sweet treat with a cup of coffee or bica  (espresso), which is excellent thanks in part to Portugal’s close relationship with Brazil.

20. What to drink in Lisbon

You’re likely familiar with port, the sweet fortified wine from the north of Portugal, but Lisbon has a wide variety of great wine thanks to its proximity to the Alentejo. Whether you enjoy a glass with lunch or head to one of Lisbon’s many wine bars after the sun goes down wine is Lisbon is plentiful, affordable and above all very good.

The other drink you must try in Lisbon is ginjinha, a sweet liqueur made from sour cherries. Served straight or in a chocolate cup (my favorite), ginjinha can be found in the many kiosks that dot Lisbon.

The soulful melodies of fado are Lisbon’s version of the blues. Songs full of meloncholy and heartache sung with the masterful strums of a 12-string guitar are the soundtrack to Lisbon. Head to a tasca for authenic fado, Povo Lisboa  in Cais do Sodre and Tasca do Chico in Barrio Alto are local favorites.

22.Safety in Lisbon

Portugal has a fairly low crime rate but it’s advised to take the usual precautions as you would in any big city. Pick-pocketing and petty theft can be common in trams, particularly the touristy tram #28.

Day trips from Lisbon

Cascais is the closest beach town to downtown Lisbon . A 30 minute train ride from the Cais do Sodre train station this charming town offers sun drenched beaches, dramatic cliffside views of the Atlantic Ocean, whitewashed homes and perpetual sunshine. I was contemplating a move here 10 minutes after arriving.

>Hotels in Cascais

If you take only one day trip from Lisbon make it Sintra . The main draw in Sintra is the colorful fairytale castle of Pena Palace , but this Unesco World Heritage Site also boasts the medieval Moorish Castle and the whimsical home and gardens of Quinta de Regaliera .Trains to Sintra leave from Lisbon’s Rossio train station every half hour and the journey takes around 40 minutes.

>Hotels in Sintra

Evora is the heart of the Alentejo, Portugal’s largest wine and agricultural region. Explore Roman ruins and the Chapel of Bones (a church decorated with hundreds of bones from human skeletons) or taste your way through the nearby vineyards. Evora is about a 90 minute train or bus ride from Lisbon.

Hotels in Evora

More Lisbon and Portugal Inspiration

The Perfect Weekend in Lisbon

Amazing Scenic Lisbon Viewpoints

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Portugal

What to See in Lisbon in Two Days

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Freelance travel writer and blogger who seeks out laid back luxury. Focus on culinary, adventure and nature travel. [READ ALL ARTICLES]

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Tamara says

April 19, 2018 at 8:09 am

Great tips, thank you! Perfect timing as I am headed there next week.

April 19, 2018 at 12:04 pm

#17 took us by surprise on our first trip! We learned quickly though! Great tips!

Esther says

April 20, 2018 at 12:41 pm

I agree with all of these! Visited Lisbon twice and couldn’t get enough. I also recommend Lux, an old textile factory now home to many independent shops and great restaurants and clubs. For a day on the beach I recommend Sesimbra over Cascais, it’s a lot less crowded and touristy. #WeekendWanderlust

April 20, 2018 at 1:47 pm

Amazing tips! I will definitely need them for when I go in the near future. Pinned.

Brianna says

April 27, 2018 at 9:41 pm

Goblinette says

April 20, 2018 at 5:37 pm

Great tips. Haven’t been in LIsbon yet, but it looks lovely.

April 27, 2018 at 9:42 pm

I loved Lisbon and can’t wait to go back!

April 20, 2018 at 5:42 pm

MMMM. Pastel de Nata is my favourite! Great resource!

April 27, 2018 at 9:43 pm

Pastel de nata is the best!

Obligatory Traveler says

April 20, 2018 at 9:37 pm

Great Post. Thanks for including so much great information, especially information about transportation. Since we usually don’t rent cars, it’s good to know the reliability of the public transportation. It’s also nice to know about the wait time for Tram #28 to meter expectations. The food and drinks look delicious. #WeekendWanderlust

April 27, 2018 at 9:45 pm

I hope you find this post helpful if you make it to Lisbon.

Sandi Kowalyshyn says

May 27, 2019 at 9:20 am

Hi Brianna! Can you tell me if it is safe to wear my diamond Jewelry in Lisbon?

Thanks! Sandi

Simone says

April 21, 2018 at 4:47 am

As I’ll be in Portugal during my van trip in September, I’ll definitely use all this infos once in Lisbon. Great pictures!

Can’t wait to see your adventures!

Rhonda Albom says

April 21, 2018 at 8:23 am

I skipped Lisbon when I travelled through Portugal years ago and have regretted it. You seem to have put all the basic travel information about Lisbon together in one spot. This is one resource that I will use when I return to see Lisbon.

Amanda Grace says

April 21, 2018 at 10:57 am

Yessss. This is exactly what I needed!!! Thank you for sharing.

April 27, 2018 at 9:48 pm

You will love Portugal!

Nicole says

April 21, 2018 at 11:24 am

This is a great post. I think that you cover many practical issues that travellers need to know in order arrive and move around the city easily. We spent days in Sintra a few years back and loved it there. We will definitely need to go back to Lisbon to explore more.

April 27, 2018 at 9:49 pm

Isn’t Sintra just magical?

Annie Soul says

April 21, 2018 at 1:16 pm

Great tips! I’m really looking forward to checking out some of the districts and food 🙂 thanks for the info!

April 27, 2018 at 9:50 pm

Any district or food pique your fancy?

Marcus and Mel says

April 21, 2018 at 1:19 pm

A great detailed and useful list. We were there last Spring and loved the place. You definitely need good shoes with all those hills and the pretty pavements are quite slippery, especially when wet. The Time Out Market offers a range of food suitable for all tastes. We really enjoyed our trip to Sintra, make sure you go early.

April 27, 2018 at 9:52 pm

Glad you enjoyed this post, I want to go back!

Lorial Roballo says

April 21, 2018 at 1:44 pm

Ugh I love Lisbon. I visited here in 2016 and it one of my op places to travel to in Europe. That view from the Miraduoro is absolute perfection and even though you get a GREAT instagram photo. It just isn’t the same from real life. Pastéis de Belém was hands down the best pastry that I’ve had during my time in Europe. And I wish I could find it here in St. Louis. Maybe I can I just haven’t checked. Great article and wonderful photos! 🙂

April 27, 2018 at 9:54 pm

Thank you! Perhaps it’s time for a return trip?

April 21, 2018 at 8:53 pm

Thank you very much for this post, I’m actually just starting to plan my trip to Portugal and this post is the first to be saved into my Portugal folder. I’m looking to go in July, flying into Porto and heading North before heading south and of course I will be spending quite some time in Lisbon. Friends of mine have told me i will fall in love with it, and from just reading through this post I can see why. It’s good to know that appetisers are not free, and good advice on the footwear for the slippery streets – I’ll be honest after reading through this I’m most looking forward to trying my first pastel de nata with a Bica 😀 – I can’t wait to get out there 😀 😀

April 27, 2018 at 9:55 pm

I can’t wait to see how your trip goes!

April 22, 2018 at 4:02 am

This is a really great list! Hoping I’ll get to go to Lisbon soon so definitely saving this 🙂 #WeekendWanderlust

April 27, 2018 at 9:57 pm

Thanks a bunch!

Fiona Maclean says

April 22, 2018 at 9:47 am

Although I’ve travelled around Portugal a lot, I haven’t been to Lisbon since I was 30. In fact, it was for my 30th birthday! I went with my boyfriend in search of fado and ended up drinking far too many tequila slammers…I definitely needed some of your tips to keep me focussed. I’m planning to go back this year so I’ll be bookmarking this and using some of your great tips on where to go (Belem for instance) and what to eat (black pork!)

April 27, 2018 at 9:59 pm

Stick to port and ginja this time;)

April 22, 2018 at 12:13 pm

I remember arriving in Lisbon and thinking we can walk all over— oh wait, we could but it is hilly so you are right— you need to wear comfy shoes. We bought the tram card and that kinda saved our lives. Lisbon is pretty but its a lot of exercise— well I guess we just eat and walk it off. We also enjoyed the day trips outside Lisbon.

April 27, 2018 at 10:01 pm

Like I said, I didn’t mind all the walking so I could eat more 🙂

Dorene says

April 22, 2018 at 5:34 pm

Could the sky have been more blue than during your visit to Lisbon? 🙂 I so look forward to getting there, and this is the perfect post for me – lots of great tips and navigation before arrival. I like your detail of the neighborhoods – good to know where to go. Alfama will definitely be on my list. Good to know about the friendly appetizer plates, I would have definitely fallen for that. Bookmarked for future visit.

April 27, 2018 at 10:02 pm

Alfama is absolutely beautiful, great choice!

Efthimis Kragaris says

April 23, 2018 at 7:52 am

Great guide. Hopefully I will visit Lisbon this year. Can’t wait to enjoy some great Portuguese wine while listening to fados and watch the sunset view from the various miradouros. The tiles and the trams are also so instagrammable!

Michelle says

April 23, 2018 at 12:20 pm

I haven’t been to Lisbon yet, so these tips will come in handy when we get there. I didn’t realize the city was so hilly!

Kathleen says

April 23, 2018 at 3:30 pm

Such great tips. I’ve just recently become interested in visiting Portugal, although I never would have turned it down before. Lisbon is so beautiful and picturesque. I really love the tiled walls and sidewalks. The little tarts look like some we had in China. I wonder if they are similar. The ones in China are a sweet egg tart, not tasting like egg at all.

April 27, 2018 at 10:04 pm

Portugal’s food culture spread around the world so I’m guessing the tarts would be very similar.

Siddhartha Joshi says

April 23, 2018 at 11:36 pm

Lisbon is such a dream destination for me, and sadly I haven’t been there at all despite going to Europe so often. Thanks to your lovely guide I am even more inspired 🙂

Thanks for including handy tips also like pick-pocketing in trams and so on…very useful for planning and being mindful 🙂

Indrani says

April 24, 2018 at 12:23 am

I agree with you on – the yellow trams are a symbol of Lisbon. The Elevator de Santa Justa surprised me. Seeing the queue I took just a pic 😛 🙂 Enjoyed reading the post, it was like revisiting.

Medha Verma says

April 24, 2018 at 6:43 am

What a beautifully detailed post! Thanks for the advice on wearing good shoes for those street walks and I am happy to know that it’s a budget destination. Also, it seems like the VivaViagem card is a good investment for those who want to travel in a budget way, using public transportation. Alfama district’s street art looks great!

Julie McCool says

April 25, 2018 at 8:49 am

Excellent round-up of tips. I love the mix of practical info and travel inspiration (those sunsets look amazing). I stayed in Sintra but only passed through Lisbon, so it’s time for another trip to Portugal.

Miranda| Migration Expert UK says

May 7, 2018 at 11:00 pm

Great blog post with lots of useful information about Lisbon! Thanks so much for sharing.

May 10, 2018 at 12:37 pm

Great tips Brianna, thanks very much! I am planning to visit Lisbon for the first time soon, these will come handy.

June 13, 2018 at 8:36 pm

Hopefully you get to Lisbon sooner rather than later!

Sarah Montgomery says

May 13, 2018 at 6:23 am

We’re heading over to Lisbon for the summer and your article was really insightful. It’s great to know that public transport would be easily available as we’re not looking to rent a car. I’m especially looking forward to watching over the stunning views and munching on pastel de nata. Loved the read.

June 13, 2018 at 8:39 pm

I’m glad you found it helpful!

Tina Wright says

May 14, 2018 at 6:05 am

Thanks for such an informative blog. Perfect for our 48 hours in Lisbon next month. So glad I found you, makes my planning easier.

June 13, 2018 at 8:40 pm

You will have a fantastic time in Lisbon!

Matthew Ali says

May 17, 2018 at 5:06 pm

Wonderful post – you covered almost every aspect for a trip to Lisbon. I’ve been there 2 years ago and it is one of the best places to visit in Portugal.

June 13, 2018 at 8:42 pm

I absolutely loved Lisbon and can’t wait to go back!

KB Burt says

November 1, 2018 at 8:24 pm

Ooh, it brings it all back! I haven’t been since 2010 but I loved it. I was quite ill and had to spend a good portion of my ten days on the hotel rooftop in Baixa and it could not have been a better place to recuperate (I’m a city girl and not good at beaches). The people were so nice and helpful, genuinely and I couldn’t agree more about the food! It’s a great place for dietary restrictions as well as you can get such simply cooked, delicious food. One piece of advice I got there was to be careful where there are signs warning against pickpockets – apparently lots of people check their wallet as soon as they see it and it’s a big help to pickpockets hanging around! 🙂

February 20, 2019 at 5:09 pm

Lisbon used to be a nice place to visit but it changed completely over the past 5 years. Now it’s just an artificial and stressful city packed with tourists everywhere. It became the perfect place to have coffee at Starbucks, have fast-food at international food chains or expensive dinners at the latest Butanese restaurant, cross thousands of useless souvenir shops full of made in China products, queue for anything slightly interesting while pickpockets do their job, squeeze and bump into other tourists in overcrowded side walks and not being able to meet and talk to a single Portuguese resident with a non-tourist job. It also became a very expensive city with dinner costing 40 euros/person and hotels averaging 100 euros/night. If you want to experience the Portuguese culture and gastronomy for 1/3 of those prices then run away from Lisbon as fast as you can. I hate to say this but overtourism killed Lisbon and its authenticity. I’d recommend other places in Portugal that are still not that popular such as Braga/Guimaraes/Geres/Coimbra/Aveiro in the North, Sintra/Guincho/Cascais/Evora/Sesimbra/Arrabida/Comporta close to Lisbon or Costa Vicentina/Algarve (Lagos, Tavira, Vilamoura) in the South.

Michela says

April 21, 2019 at 4:23 am

I have been to Lisbon a couple of times, and just realised that it’s a long time ago! This post is inspiring and very detailed, that make me want to go back to Portugal and Lisbon, hopefully soon again. Thanks for sharing!

September 6, 2020 at 2:49 am

This is a great list of tips, we totally agree with the amazing food in Lisbon, however we would recommend that you try to find the smaller cafes and restaurants, where you will here the locals, this will often mean that the food is made for local tastes and not for tourists. But yes, where ever you go to in Lisbon, try a pastel de Nata, like the Bacalhao, every baker, has a slight twist on the recipe, which means you never get the same one twice, which means that you have to try every one you see.

Sarah Patel says

January 15, 2024 at 6:57 am

Hey Brianna!

I really enjoyed reading your post, it is very complete!

I am planning a trip to Lisbon, and I really wanted to make a stop at Évora, since I am passionate about history, and I do enjoy drinking a glass of wine from time to time.

A friend of mine, who’s been there a few times, suggested I booked a guided tour , but I am still looking for more options, collecting as much of information as I can so I can make an informed decision.

Based on your experience, what would you recommend?

Thanks again for this great post!

Sarah Patel

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Solo Travel In Lisbon: The Ultimate Guide (With Map!)

By Linn Haglund. This guide to traveling alone in Lisbon contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Are you interested in learning about  solo travel in Lisbon, Portugal ? Want to have a safe and fun trip exploring on your own?

Then you’re in the right place!

Portugal’s capital city is full of charm with its cobbled streets, tiled buildings, and coastal location. And with plenty of hotels, attractions, and events to choose from, you’ll never get bored in Lisbon as a solo traveler.

Personally, I’ve traveled solo to Lisbon numerous times, falling in love with this safe and exciting city more and more with each trip.

If you love exploring local culture, Lisbon showcases art and tradition at every turn, from its traditional tilework covering building facades to the soulful Fado music spilling out the doors of venues and restaurants into the late evenings.

Speaking of restaurants, solo travelers will also fall in love with delicious local dishes like ameijoas a bulhao pato (clams with sauce) and cozida a Portuguesa (mixed meat stew).

But, this is just the beginning of what makes Lisbon such an incredible solo travel city. Luckily, the following Lisbon solo travel guide will cover everything you need to know about how to have a safe and fun trip exploring this beguiling city on your own!

⏳ Short on time? Here are some top recommendations for your Lisbon solo itinerary: ✈️ Lisbon Airport Transfer: Book that here ☔ Safety: While Lisbon is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack  travel safety essentials . One top pick is the  She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include  Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments  and  Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves . 🏨 Accommodation: Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel & Lisboa Central Hostel . You can also view accommodation on this map to view local Lisbon hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals. 🚅 Public Transportation: Omio 💸 Save Money: Lisbon Card gets you free and discounted admission to attractions + free access to public transportation 🗺️ Experiences: Viator (tours), GetYourGuide (tours), and EatWith (cooking classes & dining in local homes) 📍 Recommended Excursions: ✨ Private City Tour: Highlights of Lisbon ⛵ Lisbon Sunset Sailing Tour with Wine & Snacks 🥘 Lisbon Cultural Food & Wine Walking Tour 🎉 Events: Fever 🏥 Travel Insurance: SafetyWing 📞 Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Travel Solo In Lisbon With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we get into our solo travel Lisbon guide , I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn everything you need to know to travel alone in Lisbon and have an amazing time.

Solo Travel In Lisbon: Is It Worth It?

You might wonder if solo travel to Lisbon is worth it or not. The truth is, this is one of the best European cities to explore on your own .

It is a safe city with fun hostels offering group activities, plenty of culture, and attractions to explore on your own if you prefer some “me-time”.

Plus, whether you visit Lisbon in winter or in the summer months, temperatures are mild, there are plenty of things to do, and each season has its own allure.

Where Is Lisbon?

Lisbon is located in central Portugal in western Europe , with the Tagus River running peacefully below the city’s hills.

In terms of nearby destinations, Lisbon is about three hours north of the Algarve and three hours south of Porto , making it a popular base for day trips around the country.

Getting To Lisbon

Flying into lisbon.

Lisbon Airport (Humberto Delgado Airport) is Portugal’s main international airport, making it a natural arrival point for a solo trip to Portugal . Further, Tap Portugal uses Lisbon as a base, so most flights to other destinations have a layover in the city.

Getting from Lisbon Airport to the city center is easy by metro. The metro line Aeroporto-Saldanha takes you directly into the city center in only 20 minutes.

Getting to Lisbon by train or bus

Additionally, Lisbon is well-connected by train and bus from all across the country and neighboring Spain. The main train station is Gare do Oriente Station and the main bus terminal is called Sete Rios Bus Station .

You can use a platform like Omio to plan your train and bus journeys.

Getting to Lisbon by car

If you travel by car and visit Lisbon on a road trip , it is easy to reach the city; but note that there are several toll roads in Portugal, and once you get closer to Lisbon there are multiple.

Some only take cash or don’t accept foreign cards, so make sure you have about 100 Euros in cash in the car for both pay roads and parking in the city.

Parking in Lisbon is a little bit complicated, especially if you park in the city center. This is because you must pay cash to park along the road, and can only park for four hours maximum at a time.

Your best bet is to find a hotel with free parking or leave your car in a parking garage or public parking lot. You can use a platform like Parclick to find public parking lots.

Renting a car in Lisbon

Need to rent a car for your solo Lisbon trip? Check out Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

Getting Around Lisbon As A Solo Traveler

Lisbon is easy to get around, and you’ll find plenty of options for seeing the many interesting and beautiful places around the city.

The best way to get around the popular destination of Lisbon as a solo traveler is by foot or taking the iconic yellow trams. While the city is walkable, there are a lot of steep hills which might feel quite daunting if you are not used to it.

Tram no. 28 runs through the Alfama, Baixa, Estrela, and Graca districts while the Tram no. 15 goes to Belém.

Note that while Belém has numerous Lisbon attractions, it is not easily reached on foot. Because of this, I recommend taking the tram to help you maximize time on your Lisbon solo travel itinerary.

Tram tickets cost 3 Euros for a single journey and are free with the Lisbon Card .

Getting home at night in Lisbon alone is usually safe, but I would recommend taking a taxi for anything more than a 10-minute walk, especially if you must pass any dark alleys or you have been drinking.

Taxis in Lisbon have meters; however, sometimes they don’t turn them on so they can charge you extra. Make sure the driver turns it on and if they don’t, agree on a price upfront or get a different taxi if you think the price is too high.

Is Lisbon Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

If you’ve ever wondered “Is Lisbon safe to travel alone?” you’ll be happy to know the answer is yes!

According to Travel Safe-Abroad , the chances of being the victim of a violent crime are low. Additionally, the city is safe for women traveling alone – though you should still keep normal solo travel safety tips in mind.

It’s also important to remember that pickpocketing does occur somewhat regularly. To avoid thieves, swap your open purse for a crossbody bag that sits in front of you or even pickpocket-proof clothing or a money belt .

Finally, avoid walking alone at night, particularly in areas where there aren’t other people. I’ve walked around Lisbon solo at night multiple times and never felt threatened or uncomfortable, but it’s better safe than sorry.

Best Places To Stay In Lisbon For Solo Travelers

When considering where to stay in Lisbon as a solo traveler, there are a few neighborhoods that are centrally located. Both Baixa and Alfama are some of the best areas for walking around the historical center and visiting the city’s attractions.

There, you will find the São Jorge Castle overlooking the city, Lisbon Cathedral, the Carmo Convent, and the Santa Justa Elevator among other sites.

If you want to stay near the evening action, Bairro Alto offers a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs. It is also within walking distance of tourist attractions like the Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint and Igreja de São Roque church.

Here are my favorite hostels to stay for solo travelers in Lisbon. They are both centrally-located and walkable to numerous tourist attractions in Lisbon:

Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel (@goodmorninghostel)

This is a good place to stay for anyone traveling solo to Lisbon with a communal room where you can get to know other travelers or watch movies. Walking tours and pub crawls are organized too, so you can go out in a safe environment with fun company. Your stay includes free breakfast, and rooms are a mix of dorm sizes, including female-only dorms.

Lisboa Central Hostel

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lisboa Central Hostel (@lisboacentralhostel)

This is another one of the best hostels in Lisbon for solo travelers and it features both shared and private rooms. It is nice and spacious with a great common area and kitchen – not to mention complimentary breakfast and free milkshakes on Milkshake Mondays. The staff is helpful and they organize different activities so you can easily make new friends if you feel like being social.

Find Lisbon accommodation

Want to research other solo travel-friendly hostels, hotels, and vacation rentals in Lisbon? You can view accommodation on this map .

It’s currently set to Lisbon’s Baixa district, but you can easily change this to your preferred area to find the best hotels in Lisbon for solo travelers:

Top Things To Do Alone In Lisbon

Now that we’ve discussed the logistics of traveling solo in Lisbon, let’s go over what to actually do. There are endless things to do on a solo trip to Lisbon, and you can easily spend weeks there without getting bored. Here are some of the main highlights to add to your itinerary:

1) Visit Castelo de São Jorge

Atop one of Lisbon’s seven hills, you will see the majestic Castelo de São Jorge (Saint George’s Castle) looming above this amazing city.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most prominent landmarks in Lisbon and has been protecting the city since the 10th century; however, it was destroyed in both the 1531 and the 1755 earthquakes that hit Lisbon, so most of what you see today is restoration work after these devastating disasters.

You can get tickets at the entrance or book online . A visit encompasses the gardens with sweeping views of Lisbon and the Tagus River, the museum, and the castle where you can walk on top of its ramparts taking in more views.

2) Explore history at Jerónimos Monastery

Jerónimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site that should absolutely be on your Lisbon solo female travel itinerary.

The monastery was built in the early 15th century on the same site where Henry the Navigator founded an old hermitage. This was also the same place Vasco de Gama and his men spent their last night praying before venturing out on the open sea to India.

The monastery is a symbol of the wealth Portugal saw during the Age of Discovery with its impressive architectural details, courtyards, magnificent cloisters, and beautiful chapels. You’ll see a nautical theme all over the building with sculptures and details of sea monsters, coils of rope, and corals decorating the columns and ceilings.

3) Climb Belém Tower

About a 20-minute walk or a quick ride on Tram 15 from Jerónimos Monastery is Belém Tower , another UNESCO World Heritage site in Lisbon and perhaps the most important token of Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

Located on the riverfront, the tower was built at the beginning of the 16th century as a protective fort on a strategic point of the Tagus River defending the city against pirates. It was also the point where sailors set out on their discovery journeys. Later, it has also been used as a lighthouse and a prison.

A visit to the Belém Tower gives you a peek into the architecture, the pits where they held prisoners, and the canons; however, the highlight is climbing the stairs up to the top for amazing views over the city and waterfront.

I recommend visiting both Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery on the same day, as they are pretty close to one another. Along with exploring these sites, make sure to go for a walk in the Praça do Império Garden along the riverfront, see the 170-foot tall Monument of Discoveries , and try some of the famous Portuguese custard tarts, Pastel de Belém , while you are in the neighborhood.

💡 Pro tip: One of the best ways to visit these sites is on a Belém and Jerónimos Monastery Guided Small-Group Walking Tour , which also includes a stop at Pastéis de Belém, a Portuguese pastry shop that’s more than 100 years old!

4) Take the Santa Justa Lift

The Santa Justa Lift was built by Raul Mesnier du Ponsard, who was the apprentice of Gustav Eiffel of Eiffel Tower fame. This is why it appears so similar to the famous Paris landmark.

The detailed wrought-iron lift was originally run by steam but was changed to use an electric motor a few years later.

The lift is still in operation and takes you up 45 meters from the lower district of Baixa to the higher Carmo Square . It is a great way to reach a higher level without walking, but is also a unique experience in itself.

Note that during peak season in Lisbon, there is usually a very long line to take the lift, so the best time to go is early morning. Opening hours are every day from 7 AM to 10:45 PM.

On Carmo Square, you can visit the Carmo Convent which was completely destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, leaving only its empty shell. It is tremendously beautiful with its large arches but also showcases the devastating reality of what the earthquake left behind.

Now it houses an archaeological museum where you can see, among other things, an Egyptian mummy, the tomb of King Ferdinand I, and the tomb of Queen Maria Anna of Austria, who was queen in Portugal in the mid-18th century.

5) Explore Praça do Comércio

Located on the harbor, Praça do Comércio is one of Portugal’s largest squares and is lined with yellow Pombaline-style buildings on three sides and Lisbon’s harbor on the fourth.

The square was built after the 1755 earthquake destroyed the country’s most important palace, the Paço da Ribeira, which stood in this exact place.

Lisbon’s Praça do Comércio has been a place for receiving goods from the ships docking outside it and has always been a center of activity in the city. It is also where the beginning of the fall of the Portuguese Monarchy took place when the last King, Carlos I, and his son Luis Filipe were executed on the square.

These days, it is a bit more peaceful on Praça do Comércio, with tourists snapping pictures of the equine statue of King Joseph I and people eating and drinking in the restaurants surrounding the square.

💡 Pro tip: Many tours also visit the Praça do Comércio, like the Best of Lisbon Guided Walking Tour and the Old Alfama & Baixa Chiado Quarters Walking Tour .

6) Book a Lisbon food tour or cooking class

One highlight of a solo trip to Lisbon is the food. Portuguese food is renowned for its rich and diverse flavors, characterized by fresh seafood, hearty stews, and a variety of traditional pastries like pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts).

The cuisine is celebrated for its use of high-quality ingredients, Mediterranean influences, and a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a delicious culinary experience that reflects Portugal’s rich history and culture.

One way to explore the local culinary culture is through a Lisbon food tour . A few top-rated options for this include:

• 🍷 Lisbon Small-Group Portuguese Food & Wine Tour
• 🦐 The Award-Winning Private Food Tour of Lisbon: 6 or 10 Tastings
• 🥘 Lisbon Cultural Food & Wine Walking Tour

➡️ Click here for a full list of food tours in Lisbon !

If you’d prefer to learn how to make the food yourself, you can also opt for a cooking class like:

• 🥐 Portuguese Pastry Workshop in Lisbon
• 🍛 Hands-On Portuguese Cooking Class in Lisbon
• 🥑 Market and Food Tour with Cooking Class

➡️ Click here for a full list of cooking classes in Lisbon !

7) Eat in a local home

If you’d like to really immerse yourself in Lisbon’s culinary culture while meeting locals, EatWith is a platform where you can book dining experiences with locals in their homes.

If you’re nervous about being lonely while traveling solo , these shared meals are a great way to socialize over some delicious food.

Along with dinners in local homes, EatWith also lets you book food tours and cooking classes led by locals.

8) Step into Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)

As you can see, there are many amazing things to do in Lisbon for solo travelers. And when it comes to local attractions, Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral) is a must-visit.

Located in the Alfama district, the Tram 28 passes straight in front of it so it is hard to miss. The 12th-century Gothic basilica is the oldest in Lisbon, and beyond its grand facade, the interior hides beautiful treasures.

Inside, take note of the choir, the altarpiece, and the stained glass rose window. There is also a balcony where you can enjoy epic city views.

Besides, the tombs of King Alfonso IV and João Anes, the first archbishop of Lisbon, are inside as well as the relics of the martyr St. Vincent.

9) Visit the National Tile Museum

One of the most traditional art forms in Portugal is the mastering of the azulejos , the beautifully decorated tiles that adorn house facades as well as church and courtyard interiors around Portugal.

The National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) in Lisbon is a wonderful place to learn more about the history of the Portuguese tiles.

It is set in an early 16th-century convent and displays a vast collection of tilework from the 15th century to the present day.

10) Search for the best Lisbon viewpoints

No Lisbon solo trip would be complete without taking in some absolutely stunning views. Lisbon is built on seven hills, so you can only imagine how many splendid viewpoints you will find throughout the city.

One of the most popular viewpoints is Miradouro de Santa Luzia in the Alfama district, recognized for its white and blue tiles and overhanging plants. It offers stunning views of Lisbon’s rooftops, the National Pantheon, and the Tagus River.

A short walk from there, you get another iconic view of Alfama’s terracotta rooftops from Miradouro das Portas do Sol .

Additionally, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is located in Bairro Alto and offers sweeping views of Alfama and Lisbon’s iconic hilltop castle with the Tagus River as a backdrop.

For a different view, you can climb the Arco da Rua Augusta at Praca da Commercio where you will get a bird’s eye view of the giant square, Rua da Augusta, and beyond. There is a small fee to go to the top, but it is totally worth it.

Top-Rated Tours For Solo Travelers In Lisbon  

One of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of the places you visit while making new friends during solo travel in Lisbon is to book a guided tour. A few top-rated tours in Lisbon include:

• 🛺 Half-Day Lisbon Sightseeing Tour on a Private Electric Tuk-Tuk
• ⛵ Lisbon Sunset Sailing Tour with White or Rosé Wine and Snacks
• 😍 Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon
• ✨ Private City Tour: Highlights of Lisbon

➡️ Click here for a full list of Lisbon tours .

Tips For Solo Dining In Lisbon

Solo dining in Lisbon is widely accepted and I have never experienced being denied eating anywhere when going alone or felt awkward due to the treatment of the restaurant workers.

Actually, many restaurants have small tables for one or two people, making it easy to seat those dining alone.

If you feel uncomfortable, go early for dinner at about 7-8 PM when the restaurants still are not full. This way, you have the option to chat with the waiters who usually have more time on hand, or read a book while waiting for the food.

A great place to go if you are not comfortable dining alone is the Time Out Market Lisbon . Here you can get food from different stalls featuring some of the best restaurants in Lisbon. It’s a popular place for solo diners looking for a delicious meal.

Finally, one of the best ways to try a variety of different Portuguese foods is to join a Lisbon food tour , which is also great for meeting locals and other travelers. Click here for a full list of food tours in Lisbon .

Lisbon Bars For Solo Travelers

Traveling to Lisbon alone shouldn’t mean you have to stay in when the sun goes down. There are a number of districts in Lisbon known for their evening offers, each with its own vibe. Some of my favorites include:

Bairro Alto. This is the best place for nightlife with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants. If you enjoy a good cocktail, one of the best bars for solo travelers in Lisbon is Cinco Lounge , a trendy spot with a vast drink menu. You can even sign up for a cocktail course if you fancy meeting people with similar interests.

Chiado . Head here if you are looking for more chilled-out after-work bars. For a casual and local dining experience, Taberna da Rua das Flores is intimate enough that it is easy to chat with people at other tables, and the staff is also very friendly.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by A Taberna da Rua das Flores (@tabernadasflores)

Marvila. Known as Lisbon’s Beer District, Marvila is the perfect place for beer drinkers. And if you enjoy craft beer in particular, definitely visit Fábrica da Musa which offers everything from IPAs to pilsners to blonde ales and beyond.

Alfama. Here you’ll find some of the best places to enjoy soulful Portuguese folk music or fado. My top pick for this is Fama d’Alfama as they easily accommodate anyone dining solo and it is entertaining watching the Fado show even if you are not used to dining alone.

💡 Pro tip: There are many ways to meet others to enjoy local Lisbon nightlife, such as joining pub crawls through your hostel or finding meetups through platforms like CouchSurfing and Meetup.com. Additionally, you can check Fever to find fun local events, concerts, and pop-ups.

Fun Day Trips From Lisbon For Solo Travelers

There are plenty of day trips you can take from Lisbon to nearby towns and cities, like:

The most popular day trip from Lisbon is the fairytale town of Sintra where you can visit the famous Palacio da Pena (Pena Palace).

There are also plenty of other fairytale castles in Sintra like Quinta da Regaleira and the Moorish Castle with its walls reminiscent of a miniature Great Wall of China.

It is easy to visit Sintra by train and bus, or by booking a tour to Sintra from Lisbon .

Not far from Sintra, you find another charming town, Cascais. This is a coastal resort town with splendid beaches, palaces, and a lighthouse that is well worth a day trip.

A short walk from the town itself, you can admire the natural blowhole Boca do Inferno combined with a relaxing coastal walk.

It is easy to reach Cascais by train or bus, or by booking a tour to Cascais from Lisbon .

Ericeira is home to Europe’s only World Surfing Reserve and is one of the most quaint little beach towns in Portugal near Lisbon.

Besides surfing, it has a lovely old town with traditional white and blue painted houses, interesting rock art along the coastal walk lining the town, and great beaches for swimming.

To reach Ericeira you can take a bus from the Campo Grande bus terminal in Lisbon to Ericeira’s Terminal Rodoviário. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer or book a tour to Ericeira from Lisbon .

In Mafra, you can visit the opulent National Palace of Mafra (Palácio Nacional de Mafra) which is 220 meters long and boasts 1200 rooms.

The palace has an integrated basilica and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town itself is small with a few restaurants and bars for lunch.

To get to Mafra from Lisbon, take a bus from Campo Grande bus terminal to Av Forças Armadas 8. You can also book a private transfer or book a tour to Mafra from Lisbon .

Lisbon Travel Map

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a solo travel in Lisbon map. It has all of the places mentioned in this guide pre-plotted:

Click here for the interactive version of this map .

Do You Need Travel Insurance For Lisbon?

When visiting Lisbon solo, it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Solo Travel In Lisbon FAQ

Now that we’ve gone over some important things to know when it comes to Lisbon Portugal solo travel, it’s time to answer some frequently asked questions:

Q) Is Lisbon good for solo travel?

Lisbon is great for solo travelers thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, vibrant street life, and a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for those exploring the city on their own.

Q) Is Lisbon safe for solo travel?

Yes, Lisbon is safe to travel alone, and your risk of being the victim of a violent crime is low.

Q) How do I meet solo travelers in Lisbon?

A few ways to make friends when traveling solo in Lisbon include booking small-group walking tours, staying at hostels, and making use of platforms like CouchSuring, Meetup.com, and local Facebook groups that help facilitate meeting locals and other travelers.

Q) When is the best time to visit Lisbon?

The best time to travel to Lisbon is the shoulder season, which includes March to May or September to October. During this time, you can enjoy wonderful weather without the crowds and high prices of summer.

Q) Is Lisbon friendly to foreigners?

Yes, locals in Lisbon are generally friendly to foreigners and are known for their warm hospitality and willingness to help visitors, creating a welcoming atmosphere for those exploring the city.

Q) Is Lisbon friendly to American tourists?

Yes, Lisbon is generally friendly to American tourists, as English is widely spoken, and locals are accustomed to welcoming visitors from diverse backgrounds.

Final Thoughts On Lisbon Solo Travel

Summing up this Lisbon solo travel guide, there are plenty of reasons to visit Lisbon alone.

Not only is it safe, but there are many places and opportunities to connect with other solo travelers. Additionally, there are loads of activities and attractions, not to mention the food is delectable – even for vegans.

If you enjoy a good nightclub, Lisbon will not disappoint, but if you prefer a quiet night out with wine and an authentic fado performance, you will find that too.

No matter what your travel style, I hope you enjoy traveling Lisbon solo just as much as I do!

What tips would you add to this guide to solo travel in Lisbon, Portugal?

About The Author

Linn Haglund is a multicultural full-time traveler, blogger, vlogger, and freelance writer focused on travel and the outdoors. Her passion for sustainable travel led her to help others travel more responsibly with her blog Brainy Backpackers . You can also follow her journey on YouTube , Facebook , or Instagram .

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A Solo Woman Traveling

Boutique Travel Guides & All-Female Luxury Tours

Lisbon Solo Travel Guide For First Timer’s + Map

Heading to Lisbon by yourself for the first time? With all the planning that goes into a solo trip , it’s totally normal if you’re feeling a little nervous.

But hey, there’s no need to worry. I’ve ventured to Lisbon solo more than once and have come back with loads of tips and stories to share.

Who better to guide you through the ins and outs of exploring Lisbon alone than someone who’s done it themselves?

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of planning your journey or just looking for some insider advice, I’ve got everything you need right here!

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

What To Expect Arriving In Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital , is a trendy European destination for expats and solo travelers. From my experience, many locals have a good grasp of English and can help with basic inquiries , though not everyone might be fluent.

The people of Lisbon are much friendlier than in other European cities such as Paris , for example. I have also felt very safe alone in Lisbon, even walking alone at night.

Just use your common sense —while Portugal’s crime rates are low, it’s wise not to leave your stuff unattended.

Overall, choosing Lisbon for your solo trip is a great idea . It’s a friendly and safe place where you can explore, eat delicious food, and meet nice people.

Lisbon is full of fun and interesting things to do, and it’s a city that will make you feel welcome right away!

How to Get To Lisbon From Humberto Delgado Airport

Getting to the city center from the Lisbon airport is very easy! Depending on your comfort level as a solo traveler, you can choose which is best for you!

By Train🚊

Lisbon’s metro system is super convenient and easy to navigate, even if it’s your first time visiting. As you step out of Airport Terminal 1, just follow the metro signs to find your way.

If you happen to arrive at Terminal 2, no worries—you’ll need to head over to Terminal 1 first, which you can do by either walking or catching the shuttle bus.

Once you’re at the metro, take the escalator down to the subway level. You’ll notice red ticket machines to your left, where you once had to buy a ticket to the city center.

However, Lisbon has updated its system , making things even more straightforward. Now, you don’t need to buy a ticket at all . Simply tap your credit card at the entry gate and again when you leave the station.

The metro is open from 6.30 am to 1 am and a  single fare costs €1.80 . 📲 Download the Lisbon Subway Map here!

By Uber / Taxi 🚕

If you are traveling with a lot of luggage or just are not comfortable taking public transit you can get an UBER or taxi.

Taxis are lined up outside either terminal . In a taxi you can expect to pay from €12 to 15 euros to the city center from the airport.

🛑 Not all taxis accept credit card s, so be sure to ask upon entering.

For Uber , just follow the signs as you exit Terminal 1. These will guide you to the P2 parking area right outside the arrivals hall. My experience is that Ubers are always less than taxis and most recently I paid around €10.

📲 Get all my tips for Portugal + a Free Google map when you subscribe to my newsletter!

Is Safety A Concern in Lisbon for Solo Travelers?

Solo travelers can feel safe in Lisbon, the seventh safest capital worldwide, thanks to Portugal’s low violent crime rates . It’s impressively safe for a major city.

That said, it’s still wise to stay mindful of your belongings. Like in any large city, pickpockets exist, though neither I nor anyone I know has personally experienced theft here. It’s rare, but it’s always better to be cautious.

This is one reason I always opt for travel insurance on my trips . Whether it’s the risk of losing something or the chance of theft, it’s comforting to know you’re covered. You can never be too prepared.

Women traveling solo can confidently explore the country on their own . I’ve journeyed alone to both Porto and Faro by train and felt entirely secure throughout my travels.

Best Areas To Stay Solo in Lisbon

Whenever I’m visiting a city by myself, I make it a point to stay in the city center , even if it means spending a bit more . It’s worth the extra cost vs staying on the outskirts and feeling a bit insecure.

Here’s a quick guide to picking a neighborhood in Lisbon:

• Chiado : Ideal for those who love shopping and trendy cafes.
• Principe Real : Perfect for boutique shopping and scenic parks.
• Alfama : Great for experiencing traditional Fado music and historic streets.
• Cais do Sodré : Best for clubbing & nightlife and eclectic dining.
• Barrio Alto : The go-to spot for party-goers and bar hoppers.
• Baixa : Excellent for first-time visitors wanting to be close to major attractions.

🛌 Search for hotels in Lisbon by neighborhood!

Lisbon’s Best Hostel For Solo Traveler

Staying in a hostel is a great way to meet people when you are traveling alone. But staying in the “wrong hostel” could do damage to the enjoyment of your trip!

Everyone raves about Yes! Lisbon Hostel , so I had to check it out for myself to see if it was actually worth staying here.

And I have to say that this place checks out! It’s well kept, conveniently located, and has AIR CONDITIONING , which, news flash, is a big deal in Lisbon!

Best Hotel in Lisbon for Solo Travelers

If hostels aren’t your jam , I totally understand. They’re definitely an acquired taste, not for everyone.

Lucky for us, there are some fantastic hotels out there that won’t make your wallet cry, especially for solo travelers. My absolute favorite? Alecrim ao Chiado.

It’s right in the heart of everything, offers the bliss of air conditioning, and won’t break the bank. Perfect for solo adventurers looking for a bit of comfort without the hefty price tag!

🛑 Neighborhoods to Avoid in Lisbon

Some neighborhoods may seem central, and the hotels might even have good reviews, but you should still consider avoiding them when possible.

This area sees a little more homeless than you want to see walking alone at night. Not to be worried if you do end up staying in this neighborhood, just be more vigilant.

Martim Moniz

Located north of Baixa-Chiado, and not a wildly unsafe area , but an area to avoid if possible . If you find yourself here during the day you are not to worry, there are just nicer areas to stay where you would feel more comfortable.

If you are aiming to stay central, you won’t even come across Chelas. Located just east of the airport , it is a neighborhood that has social housing and has had more issues in recent years.

Fun Things To Do Alone in Lisbon

Traveling by yourself is like having the ultimate freedom to do whatever you feel in the moment! One huge perk of solo travel in Lisbon?

There’s an endless list of things to dive into , so boredom is off the table, guaranteed. Check out my go-to list of activities to keep your adventure in Lisbon jam-packed with fun.

Explore Castelo de S. Jorge (SÃO JORGE CASTLE)

You don’t have to be a history lover to enjoy a visit to the iconic hilltop castle, Castelo de S. Jorge . This castle dates back to the 11th century when it was a Moorish fortification.

Plan to spend around an hour exploring the interiors and climbing the walls for different viewpoints of the city.

Pro tip: Try and time your visit around sunset! The panoramic views are spectacular.

🎟️ GET YOUR TICKETS ONLINE : The amount of people who just show up and wait in line baffles me. The online ticket costs a few bucks more, but it is worth it. Stand in line entry to the castle is €15 . It will gives you access to the grounds, towers, and exhibitions inside this significant landmark. Open daily from 9:00 to 21:00 (may differ on holidays).

Ride The 28 Tram

The 28 tram in Lisbon takes you on a cool ride through the city’s old and beautiful spots. It starts at Martim Moniz, then goes up to the Graça area where you can see awesome views of Lisbon.

This tram zigzags through Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto, towards Estrela , passing by Basílica da Estrela, ending in Campo de Ourique, near Prazeres cemetery.

This tram ride is a fun way to see many different parts of Lisbon and some famous spots.

🎟️ You can get a ticket when boarding the tram for €3 or buy a prepaid ticket at any metro station. Just buy the Navegante Card and pre-load it with at least €6.

Eat Pastel de Nata on a Terrace with a View

Have your Pastel de Nata and eat it with a view! Lisbon is known for its kiosks selling coffee, tea cocktails, and delicious snacks!

My favorite kiosk in Lisbon is located at Quiosque Porta Do Sol .

Go to a Fado Show

Going to a Fado show is touristy, sure, but it’s totally worth it . It’s one of those must-do things in Lisbon! For those that don’t know, Fado is this really emotional type of Portuguese music . Hearing it live is super special.

You’ll find these shows, often including dinner, in cozy spots, like small bars and old-school restaurants. I can recommend O Corrido in Alfama.

It was €47 (CASH ONLY) for a 3-course dinner and a show.

Shop for Crafts & Books at LX Factory

If you are looking for unique handmade gifts and cool souvenirs you should make your way to LX Factory . It is most popular on weekends with additional vendors.

The old industrial complex turned shopping & dining spot is full of street art and one-of-a-kind finds!

LX factory is outside the city center, but a quick and cheap UBER can get you there in no time.

Explore Belém Tower and “Padrão dos Descobrimentos”

Something to pair well with a day to LX Factory is going to explore Belém and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument. These attractions are just beyond the LX factory a few more stops on the train.

Start by getting off the train from Cais do Sodré to the Belém stop . First, walk to the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, then walk ahead to the Belém tower.

You can climb to the top of the tower for some great views, but if the line is long, you could skip it.

Browse at Feira de Ladra ‘Thieves Market’

Browsing at Feira de Ladra market , known as the ‘Thieves Market,’ is a fun way to spend a day on a Tuesday or Saturday (closed the rest of the week).

It’s more antiques and buried treasured than anything else. It is free to enter and located in the Campo de Santa Clara area, near the National Pantheon ( Church of Santa Engrácia ).

Have a Drink in Bairro Alto on a Rooftop for Sunset

A little hidden gem in Lisbon is the Rooftop bar at the Barrio Alto Hotel ! It is the BEST place to have a cocktail as the sun sets over the city.

It might be smart to call ahead and see if you can get a reservation. As a solo traveler, I often get lucky and can sneak in, but you might want to play it safe.

Visit Praca do Comercio and Rossio Square

It’s almost safe to assume that you won’t miss the 2 famous squares in Lisbon, the Praca do Comercio and Rossio Square!

Things not to miss in Praca do Comercio are:

• Lisboa Story Centre: Interactive museum of the history of Lisbon and the earthquake of 1755.
• Martinho da Arcada: The oldest cafe in Lisbon where famous poet Fernando Pessoa frequented.
• Ribeira das Naus : Waterfront promenade along the Tagus River.

Things Not To Miss in Rossio Square:

• A Ginjinha : Just off Rossio, visit this tiny bar to try Ginjinha, a sour cherry liqueur.
• Rossio Gastrobar : An incredible spot for a rooftop cocktail and snacks at sunset.

Visit the Cathedral

If you’re in Alfama, you’ll definitely see the big Cathedral, Sé de Lisboa. It’s a nice spot to chill and grab a coffee at the nearby kiosk.

Take a Day Trip

While there are more than a couple day trips you can make from Lisbon, there is two you should really consider.

If the weather is nice, a day trip to the beach town of Cascais is a no-brainer! Just 40 minutes north and you will arrive in the most beautiful coastal town. I would plan to spend at least 2-3 hours walking around and exploring.

Alternatively, you could make the day trip to Sintra! Another 40-minute train ride will take you to this magical forest with the most incredible castles, museums, and old town.

Deciding between Cascais or Sintra can be tough, hopefully, you have time for both!

Getting Around Lisbon

Many of the attractions in Lisbon are all within walking distance of each other which makes it very convenient. However, something you need to have to get around easily in Lisbon is stamina!

You might have seen memes and funny Instagram reels of people going 100 meters straight uphill. And it’s no exaggeration. Lisbon is full of steep inclines and hundreds upon hundreds of stairs.

Luckily there is a metro, BUT the metro doesn’t get close enough to some of the places you might want to go. Trams will take you within the neighborhoods and up those hills, but thanks to tourism, they can be very crowded.

My advice is get some comfortable shoes, and don’t worry about how they look, you’ll appreciate the tip.

PRO TIP: I know it sounds “gimmicky” but you should really get the Lisbon card! It comes with free access to the transit system + loads of attractions.

Things to Be Cautious of in Lisbon

• The titled sidewalks are pretty, but VERY SLIPPERY! Most slippery when wet and in the heat. It can be downright dangerous, especially if you have mobility concerns. Bring slip-proof shoes like these.
• Stay clear of Drug Pushers . More common in areas like Barrio Alto or on Pink Street, you might encounter people pushing drugs. Just walk away.
• Don’t assume all hotels have air conditioning . Surprisingly many don’t and the summer months get very warm.

Where to Next?

After you’ve fully explored Lisbon you might be wondering where you should go next? Another city that is fantastic for solo travel is Porto!

While I’d argue you need more than 24 hours in Porto , if that’s all you have you should go! Porto is located north, 3 hours by train from Lisbon.

It is the 2nd largest city in Portugal with so much to see and do it’s the perfect next destination! The weather in Porto is less pleasant than Lisbon, so if that is the case, you can also consider visiting the Algarve for a few days!

Faro is located just 3 hours south of Lisbon and it is a good base to make many day trips from!

No matter whether you go north or south, you will certainly love all the solo travel you can do within this beautiful country!

Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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LISBON TRAVEL GUIDE 2024: Unveiling the Charms of Lisbon: Your Ultimate Companion to Portugal's Enchanting Capital (Let's tour the world) Paperback – April 10, 2024

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Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the charming streets of Lisbon? Join bestselling author Bill Bryson as he takes you on a journey to uncover the hidden gems, tantalizing flavors, and rich history of Portugal's enchanting capital in "Unveiling the Charms of Lisbon: Your Ultimate Companion to Portugal's Enchanting Capital."

Have you ever dreamed of wandering through ancient alleyways, savoring mouthwatering pastéis de nata, and soaking in panoramic views of the Tagus River? Are you eager to explore Lisbon's vibrant neighborhoods, discover its storied past, and immerse yourself in its lively culture?

Step into the pages of this comprehensive travel guide and let Bill Bryson be your knowledgeable and entertaining guide to all that Lisbon has to offer. From the historic landmarks of Belém to the bustling streets of Baixa, Bryson's witty prose and expert insights will captivate your imagination and inspire your wanderlust.

In this book, you'll

- Discover insider tips and local secrets to make the most of your Lisbon adventure.

- Navigate the city like a pro with detailed maps, transportation guides, and neighborhood descriptions.

- Indulge your taste buds with recommendations for the best local cuisine, including must-try dishes and hidden culinary gems.

- Immerse yourself in Lisbon's vibrant culture with suggestions for cultural attractions, festivals, and events.

- Explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and unique experiences that only a seasoned traveler like Bryson can uncover.

- Plan your itinerary with ease using Bryson's expert advice on accommodations, activities, and day trips.

With "Unveiling the Charms of Lisbon" in hand, you'll have everything you need to create memories that will last a lifetime and experience the magic of Lisbon like never before.

So why wait? Pick up your copy of "Unveiling the Charms of Lisbon" today and let the adventure begin! Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this ultimate companion will be your passport to an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of Portugal's captivating capital.

• Book 19 of 31 Let's tour the world
• Print length 136 pages
• Language English
• Publication date April 10, 2024
• Dimensions 6 x 0.31 x 9 inches
• ISBN-13 979-8322511113
• See all details

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D1FZFF1Y
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published (April 10, 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 136 pages
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8322511113
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 9.3 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.31 x 9 inches

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Visit Lisbon with the Lisboa Card

W hen visiting any big name city in Europe , it’s best to research whether or not they have a pass to get around and gain entry to popular attractions. With the Lisboa Card you have the freedom to conveniently visit Lisbon on your own schedule. Don’t worry about the specifics because I have got you covered. I am going to fully break it down for you.

How To Save Money with the Lisboa Pass

The Lisboa Card is available three different varieties. The only difference between them is the length of time you can have it valid for. There’s a 24 hour ($14 for kids, $22 for adults), the 48 hour ($21 kids, $38 adults), and the 72 hour ($25 kids, $46.14 adults) passes. They expire either one year after the purchase or one the time limit is up from your first validation.

It gives you access to countless sites and discounts at the local spots which saves you quite a bit of cash. It’s not only about the cash you save though.

With the Lisboa Card , you don’t have to worry about purchasing tickets in advanced or paying for transportation. You don’t have the gnawing terrible pressure of planning every single moment of your visit because it’s included in the pass.

Where To Buy Your Lisboa Card

On the day you arrive in Lisbon, you can get your Lisboa Pass in the actual airport. Head to the Praça do Comércio and Restauradores Square. Signs can point you in the right direction or ask someone for help.

If lines aren’t really your thing and you just want to relax after a long flight, I recommend getting them online. Best to get them on the official site than a random one so you know it’s trusted.

We recommend Get Your Guide . We use them all the time when we travel and never had a bad experience with them. You can also find really cool day trips, tours, and activities for the rest of your time in Lisbon (or all around the world).

To activate your card, simply use it. Like a metro pass, it should activate upon first use and once your time is up then it won’t work afterwards.

Get Your Lisboa Pass and Lisbon Guide Here

What Does Your Lisbon Card Include

For the full list of attractions, please consult the official list here . However, here are some key features:

Included Transportation

Admission is included for all the transportation the Lisboa Card provides. This means that you don’t have to pay fare. The free rides are viable for the auto-buses and the metro no matter which way you’re going.

The train is a bit different though. With the Lisboa Pass, you can go on the Sintra route train or the Casi do Sodré route for free. Otherwise, you have to pay for a ticket.

Museums and Monuments To See

There are several monuments and museums that are included in your pass. However, some cover the entire cost of admission while others are only discounted. It is important that you figure out which ones are which.

A few of the free ones include Torre de Belém, the Museum of Music, and The Palácio Nacional de Ajuda. Discounts can range from 20% off to 50% off depending on the attraction. There are a few that only knock off 2€ from the price.

Get the Full List of Discounts Here

Tours You Can Take With the Lisboa Pass

You can take quite a few tours with the pass in your possession. But, none of the tours are free . You still have to pay but at a discounted price. Discounts vary from 10% to 50%, which is very generous.

Sidecar Touring, though, is only 5€ off the original price which is still pretty good. Tours are going to vary from private guided tours to audio tours to some great insider tours.

Read The Full List Of Tours Here

Leisure Activities To Take

Surprisingly, the Lisboa Pass is extremely broad in its use. Provided with the card are a few leisure activities that can be enjoyed by everyone. Holders of the almighty pass get discounts from 5% to 50% off.

You do get free admission into Estufa Fria which is an old garden created by accident. It’s probably the most forgotten treasure in Lisbon today. You can make a day out of neat tours and day trips around Lisbon.

Find Out All The Leisure Activities Available Here

Restaurants With the 72 Hour Lisboa Card

Available only with the 72 hour Lisboa pass is access to a restaurant card to over 25 Lisbon restaurants. Discounts are anywhere from 5% to 25%. Visitors can indulge themselves in some of the best local restaurants.

This is the best way to decide exactly what you should do for your meals without the constant back and forth with yourself or travel companions.

Major Attractions With the Lisboa Pass

Please note that you can only visit each of the available attractions once. But there is no limit to the amount of attractions you can visit. Skip-the-line authorization is also not always available for every attraction. Here are just a few of the big attractions you can visit with the Lisboa card.

Torre de Belém

For almost 5 centuries, this gorgeous medieval castle has been towering over the coast of Portugal. The structure, while similar to Italian design, holds significance in the advancements made in artillery during that time.

The building holds an air of culture and history and brings travelers from all over the gawk at its beauty. If you just want to go on this tour then that’s okay. There are fast track tickets available

Get Your Fast Track Belém Tickets Here

Monastery of Jerónimos

A 5 century-old UNESCO site was chosen as a royal pantheon and financed by India. Architects turn to this site as an inspiration for European late Gothic and early renaissance trends. Experience the unique features of the Monastery of Jerónimos with either the Lisbon card or fast track tickets.

Book Your Monastery Experience Here

Pillar 7 Bridge Experience

I recommend this visit for travelers more into architecture as the bridge is an architectural marvel. While guests are in awe of the physical appearance, the tour also takes you on a cultural journey through the construction of the bridge itself. On top of the fascinating facts, you can marvel at the picturesque views.

Click Here for Skip-the-Line Tickets

What Your Lisboa Pass Does NOT Include

While the pass seems all-inclusive, there are some museums and monuments that it doesn’t include. No worries, I have ways that you can still get tickets to them, even skip-the-line tickets. Here we go.

Sao Jorge Castle

The medieval history is etched into the stone walls of the Sao Jorge Castle. This is one of the top attractions in Lisbon and for good reason. Visitors can explore the castle at their leisure and get a feel for what Portugal was back in the day.

On top of the castle, there are the moors available for exploration. While not on the Lisboa Pass, you can get a Get Your Guide certified tour.

Book Your Tickets Here

Peña Palace & Park

Resting on the second-highest point in the Sintra Hills is the beautiful Peña Palace. You can walk through the picturesque park on your way up to the colorful palace. Once you’re inside, you’re hit by the historical vibes and cultural impact. Unfortunately, it’s not available on the Lisbon pass.

Get Your Tickets Here

Street Art Tour

Art is a being that lives, breathes, and evolves as the cities do in Europe. Some of the most beautiful art is in the streets where expression is limitless and the canvasses are everywhere. While you can explore the streets yourself, you could get lost if you don’t know your way around so it’s best to have a guide.

Get Your Lisbon Street Art Tour Guide Here

Is The Lisboa Card Worth Your Money?

When you’ve already planned this big amazing trip to visit Lisbon but you have no idea what you’re going to do then I definitely recommend it. Even if if you have a ton of things you want to do but don’t exactly want to unload hundreds more dollars on tickets then I recommend the Lisboa pass .

This card gives people access to over 30 things to do for one fixed price. Yes, some of the activities are only discounted but a discount is better than paying full price. There are activities for everyone to go on and even restaurant recommendations to put your contemplative mind at ease.

I can be pretty indecisive myself so having the options given to me like with the Lisboa Pass makes it easier for me to make decisions. I always want to do everything so I would get the 72 hour pass so I can fully immerse myself in the culture.

If you’re a numbers person then let me break it down. Most museum fees are anywhere from free to around €30+. If perchance, you want to visit all the top attractions and go on a walking tour on the first day, that would add up to about €61. If you enjoy cycling and want you explore the Lisbon coast then that’s another €33. For one day you’re looking at €94 spent without the cost of food. However, if you get the 72 hour pass at €42.60 then you’re shaving off approximately €239.40 off a three day trip. That’s pretty worth it.

Book Your Lisboa Card Here

More Tips for Lisbon

• Visit the Alfama and Mouraria neighborhoods. They are loaded with culture and history while setting a romantic scene for my couple travelers out there.
• Indulge in the local delicacies. Lisbon is on the coast, which means they have some primo seafood for you to try. Eating Bacalhau is a must. It’s this salty codfish dish that it just to die for.
• For those living in luxury then you simply must dine at Palacio Chiado. The upscale restaurant makes you feel as if you are in a palace. This is a place to get pampered with food and service.
• Drink some Porto wine. You’re in Portugal so of course you need to sip that famous wine. Porto is a wine perfect for desserts as it is rich and sweet in flavor.
• Go on a food tour ! For goodness sake, food is a way to your heart and Lisbon has captured many hearts. I think food tours are the best way to get versed in a culture as every dish in its preparation, pairing, and consumption has a history of its own. Read our post on the best Lisbon Food Tours here.
• Listen to the thrumming of Fado. Many places have Fado music, the traditional Portuguese folk music, but Alfama is best known for the enchanting melodies.
• Finally, do not overstress yourself with tours and museum visits. That is the number one way to ruin a vacation. The streets of Lisbon are meant to be explored and experienced. Don’t forget to relax and go on leisure adventures to find those hidden hole-in-the-wall gems around the city.

Visit Lisbon with the Lisboa Card was written by Hedge Metreyeon.

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