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Sightseeing & Activities

There’s a lot to do and see in Lisbon. Find out what for guaranteed fun.

Shopping & Categories

From top brand stores to markets, here are some of the best Lisbon shopping options.

Restaurants & Cafes

Lisbon offers delicious menus for all tastes and diets. We help you to choose.

In a hostel or a top chain hotel, Lisbon welcomes you to a good night sleep. Make your choice.

Trip Planner

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Don't Miss

Water Museum - Barbadinhos Steam Pumping Station

The Water Museum gathers a number of monuments and buildings, built between the XVIII and XIX Centuries, which are representative of an important chapter in history of the water supply to the city of Lisbon.

Markets & Fairs

From fairs selling traditional handicrafts to the most recent urban arts and crafts, vintage objects and organic produce markets, there are fairs and markets in Lisbon to suit every taste.

Lisbon - Cascais By Train

The best way to discover Lisbon and Cascais on the same trip is to catch the train and let your eyes soak up the views of the coast and the sea.

River Cruises

Church and Convent of São Vicente de Fora

A visit to São Vicente de Fora is a must during your stay in Lisbon. Besides having one of the most important churches in the city, the artworks inside are unique.

The freshest and most exciting wine region in Portugal at this moment is Lisbon. Book a visit to the various wineries in the region to get a better idea of these exciting wines.

Main Gallery

Sintra - Palácio da Pena | © PSML - Wilson Pereira |

Lisboa - Mosteiro dos Jerónimos | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Ericeira - Surf Spot | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Arrábida - Wine tasting | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Atlantic beaches | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - Castelo de S. Jorge | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - View from Castelo de São Jorge | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - Torre de Bélem | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - Chiado | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - Terreiro do Paço | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - Elevador da Bica | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - Parque das Nações | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium) | © Pedro Pina |

Arrábida - Dolphin Watching | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Cascais - Santa Marta Lighthouse | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Cascais - Praia do Guincho | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Sintra - Palácio Nacional de Sintra | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Urban Art - © CML | DMC | DPC | José Vicente 2014 GAU

Lisboa - Fado Vadio | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Sardinhas (sardines) - Handicraft | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Ericeira/Mafra - Enchanted Forest of the National Hunting Grounds of Mafra | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Oeiras - Surf | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Mafra - Palácio Nacional de Mafra | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Tagus Estuary Natural Reserve - Vila Franca de Xira | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Golf - Estoril/Cascais | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - Ancient Art Museum | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisbon Tram/Elétrico 28 | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Birdwatching - River Tagus | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Pastel de Nata | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Boating and Cruises | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - 25 April Bridge | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - Tram 28 crossing Chiado neighbourhood | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Arrábida Vineyards | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Convent of Arrábida | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Arrábida - Shrine (Cape Espichel) | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisbon is a dream destination for foodies! | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Sintra - Palácio Nacional de Sintra © Turismo de Lisboa

Sintra - Roca Cape (Westernmost point of continental Europe) | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Library - National Palace of Mafra | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Sintra - Castelo dos Mouros (Viewing Point) | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Ericeira - Beach | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Sintra - Roca Cape (Westernmost point of continental Europe) | © Rui Cunha

Viewing point - Castelo de São Jorge | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - Águas Livres Aqueduct | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - View to the castelo de São Jorge | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Lisboa - Monument to the Discoveries | © Turismo de Lisboa |

View over Lisboa from Almada | © Turismo de Lisboa |

Home > What to See and Do > Top 10 Must-See Attractions

Top 10 Attractions and 50 Things to Do in Lisbon

The most extraordinary sights and the most memorable experiences.

1. Jerónimos Monastery

This World Heritage monument is a marvel of Manueline (Portuguese Gothic) architecture. It was built in 1502, and features magnificent stonework inspired by the sea and the East, particularly in the cloisters. Paid for with the profits from the spice trade, it’s the resting place of explorer Vasco da Gama, whose tomb is found at the entrance of the church.

See the Jerónimos Monastery Visitor's Guide .

2. Belém Tower

Lisbon’s most iconic monument rises from the river, where it served as a beacon to the many explorers who departed from this site in the 15th and 16th centuries. Also protected as World Heritage , it looks like a small castle out of a fairy tale, and is a symbol of the Age of Discovery .

See the Belém Tower Visitor's Guide .

3. St. George's Castle

Lisbon’s highest hill has been crowned by fortifications for literally thousands of years. The first ones were built by the Visigoths in the 5th century, then the Moors expanded them in the 9th century, and Portugal’s first king remodelled them in the 12th century. The medieval castle became a royal residence until the 1500s, and what stands today is the restored version of the Moorish and medieval construction. It houses a small archaeological museum, but is mostly visited for the breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

See the St. George's Castle Visitor's Guide .

4. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Businessman and philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian was one of the world’s wealthiest men in the mid-20th century, and created a foundation in Lisbon to promote the arts and education around the globe. He put together one of the world’s greatest private art collections , and a museum was built next to the foundation’s headquarters. He only acquired masterpieces, so everything on display is outstanding, from paintings by old masters such as Rembrandt and Rubens, to Egyptian antiquities and unique pieces of Lalique jewelry.

See the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Visitor's Guide .

Exhibitions related to modern art, architecture and technology are presented in an iconic building of curved lines that descends into the river. Even if you don’t visit the art inside, you may walk around, and even on top of, this waterfront landmark, as it serves as a viewpoint, looking out to 25 de Abril Bridge.

See the MAAT Visitor's Guide .

6. Coaches Museum

Lisbon’s most popular museum became even more so when it moved to a bigger building across the street from its original home. Its collection of magnificent carriages (unique in the world) is now displayed in a modern building designed by Pritzker Prize architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha, and includes vehicles dating back to the 16th century, ridden by Portuguese and other European royals.

See the Coaches Museum Visitor's Guide .

7. Parque das Nações

Eastern Lisbon was transformed into a futuristic ocean-themed neighborhood when it was chosen as the site of 1998’s World Fair. It’s now home to office and apartment buildings, but also to one of the city’s greatest attractions, the Oceanarium, which puts all of the world’s ocean habitats under one roof. From there, visitors walk along the pleasant waterfront promenade towards Vasco da Gama Bridge (Europe’s longest) and the Vasco da Gama Tower (the city’s tallest building).

See the Parque das Nações Visitor's Guide .

8. Tile Museum

Ceramic tile art dates back to ancient Egypt and is found all over the Mediterranean, but nowhere else in the world did it evolve as much or as imaginatively as in Portugal. Here, tiles became more than just geometric figures decorating walls, they also depicted historical and cultural scenes to cover palaces, street signs and shops. There is only one place on the planet where you can follow the history and evolution of this art form, and that’s Lisbon’s Tile Museum. Set in a magnificent 16th-century convent , this is the city’s most beautiful museum . It’s a unique gallery with a collection of tilework that ranges from Moorish-influenced pieces from Seville to modern examples by contemporary artists. In the splendid church dripping with gold is also a series of Dutch panels, from a time when Europe started imitating Chinese ceramics.

See the Tile Museum Visitor's Guide .

9. Ancient Art Museum

It has paintings by masters like Bosch and Dürer, but the main reason to head to this museum is for a lesson in how the East and the West influenced each other , thanks to the Portuguese “Age of Discovery.” Highlights include Japanese screens illustrating Japan’s first encounter with Europeans as the Portuguese arrived on their ships, a monstrance made with gems brought back by Vasco da Gama, and the 15th-century masterpiece “Panels of St. Vincent” depicting Prince Henry the Navigator and other personalities of the time.

See the Ancient Art Museum Visitor's Guide .

10. MAC/CCB

Located next to Jerónimos Monastery, this museum (formerly named Berardo Collection Museum) presents a world-class collection of modern and contemporary art . Most of it belongs to Portuguese businessman Joe Berardo, who collected works by major European and American artists like Picasso, Magritte, Paula Rego, Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.

See the MAC/CCB Visitor's Guide .

40 OTHER MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

Discoveries Monument

This massive monument is shaped like a ship with 33 people aboard, led by Prince Henry the Navigator. The other colossal sculptures are of other personalities related to the Portuguese Age of Discovery , such as explorers, poet Luís de Camões, and painter Nuno Gonçalves. Inside are temporary exhibitions and an elevator that takes visitors to the terrace at the top, which offers a breathtaking view of the neighboring monuments. Outside, on the ground, is a vast compass with a map of the world tracing the routes of Portugal's heroes of the sea.

See the Discoveries Monument Visitor's Guide .

Rua Augusta Arch

The triumphal arch that once welcomed those arriving in Lisbon by boat, now offers visitors one of the best views of the city from the top . From the feet of its gigantic sculptures is a bird’s-eye perspective of Lisbon’s grandest square opening to the river, the cathedral, and downtown’s cobbled streets.

See the Rua Augusta Arch Visitor's Guide .

Portas do Sol Viewpoint

The most stunning view of old Lisbon can be admired and photographed from this terrace by the castle. This medieval part of the city looks more like a Mediterranean village or a Greek island than a capital city, with white church towers, domes and colorful houses tumbling down the hill towards the waterfront. In the surroundings are several cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating.

See the Portas do Sol Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint

This terrace at the top of a hill was landscaped in the 1800s and is one of Lisbon’s most romantic spots . Locals and tourists take photos of the postcard view , and gaze across to the castle as they enjoy drinks from a kiosk café. It’s found next to the terminal of one of the city’s iconic funiculars , the Elevador da Glória.

See the São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Santa Justa Elevator

A monumental wrought-iron elevator , designed in Gothic Revival style by one of Gustave Eiffel’s disciples, was inaugurated in 1902 to facilitate the climb of one of Lisbon’s hills. It connects Baixa (downtown) to Chiado and Bairro Alto at the top of the hill, but is now mostly a tourist attraction, as it also offers a panoramic view .

See the Santa Justa Elevator Visitor's Guide .

Santa Luzia Viewpoint

A pergola frames a perfect view of Alfama’s domes and rooftops descending the hill towards the river at this romantic terrace next to a small church. It’s incredibly picturesque from its two levels -- the landscaped upper level with lush bougainvillea is adorned with tile panels, while the lower level has a reflecting pool.

See the Santa Luzia Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Ribeira das Naus

This promenade connects the Baixa and Cais do Sodré districts, and turns into something of an “urban beach” in the summer. It’s the favorite sunbathing spot in the city center for locals and tourists (who lie on the steps that descend to the water or on the lawn behind them), and the terrace of its kiosk-café is one of the most popular spots for drinks on the waterfront. It’s also one of the best places to catch the sunset in the autumn and winter months, when the sun disappears on the horizon on this more southern location of the city.

See the Ribeira das Naus Visitor's Guide .

An abandoned factory complex dating back to 1846 became one of Lisbon’s trendiest places to be , when it started housing offices, shops, cafés and restaurants in 2008. It’s one of the top destinations for dinner throughout the week and for brunch on weekends, when it also hosts outdoor markets selling everything from locally-grown vegetables to crafts, fashion, and accessories. All of the interiors have kept their industrial architecture and vintage pieces in their décors, and the exterior is a true street art gallery .

See the Lx Factory Visitor's Guide .

MuDe - Design & Fashion Museum

Lisbon has one of Europe’s best design and fashion collections , and it’s displayed in the former headquarters of a bank, in the city’s main pedestrian street. There are creations by many of the world’s leading designers from the mid-1800s to the present, like Charles & Ray Eames, Le Corbusier, Philippe Starck, Chanel, Christian Dior, Versace, and Yves Saint Laurent. Most of the pieces were amassed by a local businessman, but there have also been donations, including an outfit by Tommy Hilfiger himself.

See the MuDe Visitor's Guide .

Royal Palace of Ajuda

Portugal’s last royal palace was built at the top of a hill in 1795. It was to be one of Europe’s largest palaces, but was abandoned and the project left unfinished during the French invasion of Portugal and later when the country became a republic. However, the neoclassical building is grand enough, and the royal family left behind the crown jewels and a collection of decorative arts from the 18th and 19th centuries, which are displayed in the magnificent rooms . Across the street is the royal botanical garden , laid out in 1768. Split into two levels, it has exotic trees and plants, 18th-century sculptures and fountains, and a beautiful view of 25 de Abril Bridge.

See the Ajuda Palace Visitor's Guide .

São Vicente de Fora Monastery

The world's largest collection of baroque tile panels , including several illustrating La Fontaine's fables, can be seen inside this monastery from 1582. Those panels were added in the 1700s, and line the cloisters and much of the interior. It’s possible to climb up to the roof, for a view over Alfama.

See the São Vicente de Fora Monastery Visitor's Guide .

Lisbon Cathedral

Lisbon’s fortified cathedral is the city’s second-oldest monument, after the castle. It’s a robust building from 1147, and most of it survived the 1755 earthquake. Its cloisters reveal archaeological remains of the city’s past 3000 years , while the treasury presents a collection of priceless sacred art .

See the Lisbon Cathedral Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de São Roque

Built in the 1500s, this was one of the world’s first Jesuit churches , with a very plain façade but with a number of extraordinarily gilded chapels inside. One of them is a unique masterpiece of European art , and said to be “ the world’s most expensive chapel .” Built in Rome in 1742, using only the most precious gems (ivory, lapis lazuli, gold, silver, marble, gilt bronze, agate, porphyry...), the chapel was shipped to Lisbon to be assembled in this church, where it can now be seen together with other side-chapels equally rich in ornamentation.

See the Igreja de São Roque Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de Santa Catarina

The magnificent baroque and rococo interior of this church is one of Lisbon’s most beautiful sights , but it remains a little-known treasure. It dates from 1727, and most of it actually survived the 1755 earthquake, unlike the majority of churches and everything else in the city. It’s therefore a rare example of Lisbon’s wealth up to the 18th century, with a monumental organ that’s a masterpiece of gilded woodwork and a stucco ceiling that’s considered one of the most outstanding of its kind in Europe.

See the Igreja de Santa Catarina Visitor's Guide .

Graça Viewpoint

A pine-shaded terrace at the top of one of Lisbon’s tallest hills is a meeting place for locals, who love to admire their city as much as tourists do. No one can resist taking a photo of the view of the castle and the rooftops below it , and stopping for a drink served from a kiosk standing in the shadow of a baroque church.

See the Graça viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Santa Catarina Viewpoint

Lisbon’s favorite sunset spot is one of its most central viewpoints. It’s a terrace located close to many of the city’s most popular bars and restaurants, so it’s where many start their night out. There’s a kiosk serving drinks to be enjoyed on the amphitheater-like steps, where bohemian locals and tourists get together in a chill-out atmosphere. They’re overlooked by a sculpture of Adamastor, a mythical sea monster imagined by Portugal’s great 16th-century poet Luís de Camões.

See the Santa Catarina Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Senhora do Monte Viewpoint

It rivals the Santa Catarina viewpoint as the favorite sunset spot , but here there are no cafés and the view is more breathtaking. It’s a quieter viewpoint, but has become quite popular, as it offers a panorama of almost the entire city . It’s faced by a small 18th-century chapel and an image of the Virgin which gave it its name (“Lady of the Mount”).

See the Senhora do Monte Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Bica Funicular

It perfectly frames a view of the river, so Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo would always be one of Lisbon’s most photographed streets , but what makes it such a picturesque and irresistible place (and arguably the city’s most beautiful street) is the presence of a charming funicular . It has been going up and down the hilly street since 1892, connecting the Bairro Alto district to the waterfront. Its journey takes just 5 minutes, and it carries up to 23 passengers, but it’s now mostly used as a backdrop for selfies.

See the Bica Funicular Guide .

Ribeira Market

Lisbon’s main market since 1892 became the city’s top food destination in 2014, when it added a food hall managed by Time Out Lisboa magazine. It’s a lively place from morning to night, with stalls offering some of the most creative dishes by some of the city’s top chefs. They’re enjoyed at canteen-style communal tables inside, or outside, facing Dom Luis I Square.

See the Ribeira Market Visitor's Guide .

Docas de Santo Amaro

The best close-up views of the landmark 25 de Abril Bridge are from the warehouses-turned-restaurants below it. They face a marina, and are the starting point of a promenade that leads to the Discoveries Monument and the many other attractions of Belém. This is a popular destination at lunch and dinner time, as well as for afternoon drinks. It’s also the departure point of sightseeing cruises. The bridge is often compared to the Golden Gate in San Francisco, but it was actually modelled after the Bay Bridge in the same city. One of the pillars (across the road from here) has a glassed observation deck at the top, and houses an exhibition explaining the mechanisms that make a suspension bridge work.

See the Docas de Santo Amaro Visitor's Guide .

A gigantic image of Christ standing on a tall pedestal was inaugurated across the river in 1959, as a way for the episcopate to thank God for having spared Lisbon from World War II. An elevator takes visitors up to the terrace by the feet of the statue, from where there's a panoramic view of practically the entire city . From the landscaped surroundings there’s a close-up view of 25 de Abril Bridge , which stands right below.

See the Cristo Rei Visitor's Guide .

Carmo Convent

The roof of this 14th-century church, which was Lisbon’s greatest medieval building, collapsed in the earthquake of 1755, but its Gothic arches still stand. It was never restored, to serve as a reminder of the disaster, but it remains one of the city’s most impressive monuments . The former sacristy is a small archaeological museum with an eclectic collection of treasures, from Portugal and elsewhere, including a Visigothic pillar, a Roman tomb, and eerie South American mummies. Behind the building are the Terraços do Carmo, terraces now occupied by an open-air café and bar, offering a view of the castle and of the Santa Justa Elevator , which can also be accessed from here.

See the Carmo Convent Visitor's Guide .

National Pantheon

A domed church that took 300 years to complete is now the pantheon holding the tombs of Portugal’s most illustrious personalities (from 15th-century explorers, to Presidents, to legendary fado singer Amália Rodrigues ). The marble interior is a fine example of baroque architecture , but it’s mostly visited for the terrace surrounding the dome , which overlooks Alfama and the river.

See the National Pantheon Visitor's Guide .

Basílica da Estrela

Inspired by St. Peter’s in Rome and Mafra Palace outside Lisbon, this royal basilica was built according to the wishes of the queen in 1790. The imposing dome stands out in the city’s skyline, and it’s possible to get a close-up view of it from the terrace , which overlooks the city. The marble interior includes a remarkable nativity scene , created by Portugal’s leading baroque sculptor. Across the street is one of Lisbon’s most delightful parks .

See the Basílica da Estrela Visitor's Guide .

Fronteira Palace

It’s way off the beaten path, outside the city center, but it’s worth making the effort to see this palace from 1670, as it’s a fine example of aristocratic architecture. It was influenced by the Renaissance, and has one of the world’s richest collections of decorative tiles , which can be admired inside or in the magnificent gardens .

See the Fronteira Palace Visitor's Guide .

Edward VII Park

Lisbon’s sloping “central park” offers a view of downtown Lisbon, with symmetrical box hedging pointing to the river. On one side is a beautifully-tiled pavilion which hosts special events, and on the other are small lakes and a greenhouse filled with exotic species of plants from tropical climates.

See the Edward VII Park Visitor's Guide .

Jardim do Príncipe Real

The center of Lisbon’s trendiest district is a romantic garden laid out in 1863. It’s shaded by different species of trees, including a gigantic parasol-like cedar. It’s surrounded by mansions, including the exotic Ribeiro da Cunha Palace , which is now a monumental shopping gallery. There are statues of 19th-century poets and a memorial to the victims of homophobia, as well as kiosk cafés serving refreshments throughout the day.

See the Jardim do Príncipe Real Visitor's Guide .

Vasco da Gama Bridge

Inaugurated in 1998 as Europe’s longest , this bridge remains one of the largest in the world. It seems to almost vanish into the distance, and it’s possible to walk under it, following the waterfront promenade of the Parque das Nações district. There’s a park below it, where locals jog, cycle, walk their dogs, and play soccer, as very few tourists pose for selfies on the boardwalk with the bridge as a backdrop. By the promenade is a statue of Catherine of Braganza , the Portuguese princess who became the queen of England when she married King Charles II, who named the borough of Queens in New York in her honor.

See the Vasco da Gama Bridge Visitor's Guide .

Pink Street

The color of the pavement gave it its nickname, but this pedestrian street is officially Rua Nova do Carvalho on the map. It’s quite a small street, but is the epicenter of Lisbon’s nightlife , and the New York Times even placed it on a list of “12 favorite streets in Europe.” It hosts a street party throughout the week, mixing locals and tourists, who sit or stand outside the different bars.

See the Pink Street Visitor's Guide .

Lisbon Museum

Divided into five different branches, this museum tells the story of Lisbon and explains the different aspects of its culture. The main branch is an 18th-century palace that the king built for a nun (who happened to be his mistress), and features a formal garden with live peacocks and ceramic animals. That’s Palácio Pimenta , and inside it documents Lisbon’s history, from prehistoric times to the 20th century, through paintings, archaeological finds, and a scale model of the city before its destruction by the 1755 earthquake. Another branch is the striking Casa dos Bicos , a 16th-century building covered in over 1000 diamond-shaped stones that was one of the few survivors of the earthquake. Its ground floor is an archaeological site with traces of Lisbon life from the past two millennia, while upstairs is an exhibition devoted to the life and work of author José Saramago, featuring his Nobel Prize and multilingual editions of his books. Another famous Portuguese personality, Saint Anthony, is celebrated in another branch, next to the church with his name, built on the site where he was born (right in front of the cathedral). A fourth branch is found in the city’s grandest square -- in the western turret of Praça do Comércio, and presents temporary exhibitions. But if you visit only one branch of the museum make it the Roman Theater , which is an archaeological site showing the remains of what was once a sizable theater during Lisbon’s Roman occupation. Pieces unearthed during the excavations are shown in a building next door.

See the Lisbon Museum Visitor's Guide .

Orient Museum

As the European power with the longest presence in Asia (Macau was only handed over to China in 1999), Portugal has quite a story to tell about how its culture influenced and was influenced by the East. This museum does just that, with a permanent collection dedicated to the Portuguese presence in Asia . It includes Indo-Portuguese furniture, Japanese screens, paintings, porcelain, textiles and religious artifacts. The restored 1940s warehouse it’s housed in also presents temporary exhibitions covering a variety of themes related to the different Asian cultures.

See the Orient Museum Visitor's Guide .

Medeiros e Almeida Museum

A 19th-century mansion houses one of Lisbon’s most outstanding art collections . Somehow, it remains one of the city’s top secrets, often overlooked by travel guides. It’s the former home of a wealthy businessman, who displayed his treasures in 25 rooms, including a Rembrandt portrait and other paintings by major artists like Rubens and Tiepolo. It also presents one of the world’s largest collections of clocks, some of the first Chinese porcelain imported by Europe, a silver tea set that once belonged to Napoleon, and a marble and bronze fountain that originally stood in the gardens of the Palace of Versailles, among hundreds of other surprising pieces.

See the Medeiros e Almeida Visitor's Guide .

Maritime Museum

Located in the western wing of Jerónimos Monastery, this museum provides a flashback to the Age of Discovery and Portugal’s nautical history. Ancient globes, models of ships, maps and astrolabes explain the pioneering role of the Portuguese in the exploration of the oceans and in aviation , displaying the plane the made the first crossing of the South Atlantic by aviators Gago Coutinho and Sacadura Cabral in 1922. Other treasures include artifacts found in shipwrecks, the yacht and barges of the Portuguese royal family, and a wooden figure of Archangel Raphael that accompanied Vasco da Gama on his voyage to India.

See the Maritime Museum Visitor's Guide .

Tropical Botanical Garden

If you have time for just one garden in Lisbon, make it the Tropical Botanical Garden next to the Jerónimos Monastery. Created in 1906 to show the exotic plants and trees from the Portuguese colonies , it’s now a beautiful and peaceful place to escape the crowds of tourists in the neighborhood. Busts of Africans and Asians are dotted around, and there’s a Macanese arch leading to an Oriental Garden, but there are also plants from other lands that were not colonized by the Portuguese. Giant palm trees welcome visitors, as do the peacocks, ducks, geese, swans, chickens, and other fowl that waddle around or swim on the pond.

See the Tropical Botanical Garden Visitor's Guide .

Águas Livres Aqueduct

Lisbon created one of the world’s most impressive water systems in the early 1700s, thanks to a monumental aqueduct. It’s recognized as one of mankind’s most remarkable hydraulic and engineering constructions , and its 109 arches and different reservoirs escaped the destruction of the devastating 1755 earthquake. They make up the award-winning Water Museum , and it’s possible to walk over the aqueduct’s 14 largest stone arches (the world’s tallest when they were built), rising 64 meters (210 feet) from the ground. Smaller arches, decorated with baroque tile panels illustrating human consumption of water over history, can be seen leading to the Mãe d’Água reservoir nearby, whose rooftop offers a view of the arches and of the surrounding neighborhood. Inside, it often hosts temporary art exhibitions. Another reservoir can be visited on weekends below Jardim doPríncipe Real, while the main branch of the museum is located a short walk from behind Santa Apolónia train station, in the former steam pumping station. It preserves the iron and steel machinery in the Victorian and Neoclassical styles, considered treasures of Europe’s historical and industrial heritage.

See the Aqueduct and Water Museum Visitor's Guide .

Amoreiras 360º

A group of glass postmodern towers altered Lisbon’s skyline and were therefore controversial when they were built in 1985, but their shopping mall soon became the city’s favorite shopping mecca. Newer and bigger malls are now more popular, but that of Amoreiras is still a destination, as it provides access to an observation deck at the top of one of the towers. There’s a 360-degree view of almost the entire city , from the Parque das Nações district in the east to Belém in the west. The mall below has dozens of stores and an excellent food court.

See the Amoreiras 360º Visitor's Guide .

National Contemporary Art Museum of Chiado

Art fans will want to head to this converted convent which houses the biggest collection of contemporary Portuguese art . It’s shown in thematic and temporary exhibitions, but there are always works by the leading national artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, like Almada Negreiros, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, and Paula Rego. A drink or light meal at the café on the sculpture-filled terrace is a great way to end a visit.

See the National Contemporary Art Museum of Chiado Visitor's Guide .

Military Museum

Lisbon’s oldest museum recalls major battles, wars and the military history of Portugal in sumptuous rooms with beautifully-painted ceilings . The room named after Vasco da Gama shows how the country conquered and defended its colonies, while another room is entirely dedicated to WWI. Elsewhere it displays one of the world’s largest collections of artillery , swords used by kings, and replicas of 16th-century armor, among a variety of other pieces. The cannon-filled courtyard features tile panels illustrating some of the most historic battles that guaranteed that Portugal remained an independent Iberian kingdom.

See the Military Museum Visitor's Guide .

There are many places in the city to enjoy the abundant sunshine and the mild temperatures, but luckily there are also several beaches nearby. That makes Lisbon one of Europe’s most blessed cities, and you can have your feet in the ocean or be on your surfboard in just minutes from the center of town. There’s a long stretch of sand to the south, offering everything from lively seaside bars to surfing waves , to secluded spots and nude beaches , and then there’s the coast to the west, easier to reach, and therefore more popular with tourists. Wilder beaches of stunning natural beauty are found to the north, by Europe’s westernmost point . Most can be reached by public transportation, and will make you want to prolong your stay in the city.

See the Lisbon Beaches Guide .

A day trip to Sintra should be included in any visit to Lisbon. This fantasyland was Europe’s first center of romantic architecture, which has made it a World Heritage Site . It’s a magical place with several fairytale palaces and castles , but the must-see is the extraordinary Pena Palace , which looks like something that not even Disney could imagine.

See the Sintra Tourism Guide .

Top Places to Stay

Best Waterfront Hotels: Altis Belém Hotel , MYRIAD by SANA Hotels Best Views: Memmo Alfama , Hotel do Chiado , Solar dos Mouros Best Pools: Olissippo Lapa Palace , Palácio do Governador , EPIC SANA Marquês Best Hotels by the Castle: Solar do Castelo , Santiago de Alfama Boutique Hotel Best Central Hotels: Pousada de Lisboa , Bairro Alto Hotel , Altis Avenida , The Ivens Best Central Apartments: Residentas Aurea , Chiado Camões Apartments , Flora Chiado Apartments Best Beach Hotels: Farol Hotel , The Albatroz Hotel

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

Ajuda Palace

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

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

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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The 15 Best Things to Do in Lisbon

By Chadner Navarro and Alia Akkam

There certainly isn’t a shortage of captivating ways to spend your days in Lisbon —there’s so much to experience, in fact, you might have a difficult time creating your to-do list. So we’ve done it for you: Devour the city’s iconic pastries at the famous Pastéis de Belém, then hang out with locals on the riverfront plaza of MAAT Museum, Lisbon’s newest art institution. After meandering around the city’s hidden corners and lesser-known neighborhood hangouts, marvel at the city from the perch of São Jorge Castle. These 15 experiences ensure your stay will be a memorable (and action-packed) one. Read on for our picks of the best things to do in Lisbon.

Read our complete Lisbon travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Ajuda National Palace Arrow

This 19th-century palace was once the royal residence of Dom Luís I when he was king of Portugal. It is now used as a museum that you need tickets to access. The wildly opulent space houses a fantastic collection of decorative art, including chandeliers, marble statues, porcelain, tapestries, and much more. Some of the rooms are also used as gallery spaces for contemporary art exhibits. The property is pretty spectacular and overwhelming in its grandeur. There’s weight to every room considering how much there is to look at, whether it’s an old cabinet filled with porcelain cups or massive gold-framed portraits. If you’re into royal collections, this is likely the best you’ll find in all of Portugal.

Tram 28 Arrow

If you’re in search of Belém’s cultural and culinary adventures, you can simply hop on the sleek No. 15 tram from the city center to get around. But it’s the No. 28 that every visitor should weave into their itinerary. These vintage Remodelado streetcars, wooden and painted yellow, are a throwback to another era. In peak season, you could be waiting for an hour to board one of these beauties. But that retro feel, perched on a bench as the tram clatters its way through the city’s narrow streets and blares its horn, is priceless.

LX Factory Arrow

LX Factory is an industrial complex from the 19th century that's now home to a bunch of cool shops, restaurants, bars, and office spaces. Located in the far-west of the city, in the neighborhood of Alcântara, it offers a look into the more modern side of Lisbon.  If you’re into checking out cool, of-the-moment venues, it’s worth heading here to take a break from the city’s more historic sights; walk around and pop in and out of the various businesses that call the area home.

Time Out Market Lisboa Arrow

Time Out magazine has curated this upbeat food hall in Cais do Sodre, which successfully merges the worlds of culinary highbrow and lowbrow. Set within the old-school Mercado da Ribeira, where locals buy their meat and fish, it’s one of the best places in Lisbon to while away the day, eating and drinking from more than 50 different concepts. Start with charcuterie from the more-than-a-century-old brand Manteigaria Silva and end with Italian-style ice cream packed into a wafer-biscuit cone from Santini. One of the best reasons to visit is to sample the cuisine from some of Portugal’s most famous chefs, including Miguel Castro e Silva, Marlene Vieira, Miguel Laffan, and Henrique Sá Pessoa.

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Hannah Towey

Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) Arrow

The main reason to visit the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT)—a modern cross-cultural hub that brings together visual arts, urban affairs, technology, and science—is the setting. British architect Amanda Levete’s undulating building is covered in white ceramic tiles and capped with a rooftop terrace, while exhibition spaces can also be found in the newly reimagined central power station. The permanent collection and the rotating exhibitions run the gamut, from pop art to ceramics to wood sculptures. There’s even an archival collection about the history of Portuguese electricity. It’s also home to what is now the most impressive collection of contemporary Portuguese art.

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Arrow

Located in the northern edge of Lisbon, Museu Calouste Gulbenkian feels like an art-filled oasis that travelers rarely visit. Tranquil gardens surround a brutalist building that houses world-class pieces spanning 5,000 years of history—think Egyptian sculptures, John Singer Sargent paintings, and Art Nouveau jewelry. The museum added sculptures around the garden, and it’s great to split the visit up between the indoor galleries with a stroll around the grounds.

Praça do Comércio Arrow

Lisbon certainly doesn’t lack for stunning plazas, but perhaps the most important—the grandest of them all—is Praça do Comércio. Before the earthquake of 1755, it was here where one found the royal palace. Today, with its sunflower yellow buildings, arcades, and commanding statue of Dom José I, the aura is just as majestic. Envisioned as a gateway to the New World, the vibrant transportation hub has a ferry terminal on one side and trams whizzing by on the other, so it’s easy to weave into packed itineraries. This is an ideal place to kick off any Lisbon adventure: It doesn’t take long to wander through the square, but one immediately feels its powerful personality and thrilling history.

We Hate Tourism Tours: Walk in the Real City Arrow

This three-and-a-half hour walking tour gives travelers an off-the-beaten glimpse of the city. (It’s a public walking tour, so make sure to reserve in advance.) The guides have an easy-breezy approach that make it seem like you’re being shown around by a friend—expect a good mix of historical, cultural, and, even political info peppered with personal storytelling. Overall, it’s best for people who would rather learn about Lisbon’s modern-day narrative rather than its history or past. You get some of that history, of course, but this tour is meant to show you parts of the city that don’t often land on the mainstream tourist routes, even if you’re only a couple of blocks away.

São Jorge Castle Arrow

São Jorge Castle, a hilltop castle, is one of Lisbon’s most emblematic scenes. Before the Moors built the fortress in the mid-11th century, the Visigoths settled here. Later, after Dom Afonso Henriques became Portugal’s first king in 1147, it became the domain of royalty, and enjoyed a long time playing host to lavish soirees and visiting dignitaries. This castle certainly has a museum feel, what with its clever camera obscura offering 360-degree views of Lisbon in real time, archaeological site spanning three diverse periods, and ruins of the former royal palace. It’s the view, though, that’s the star. Peering out at the city’s abundance of red rooftops and the Tagus River beyond is one of Lisbon’s most thrilling rituals.

Café A Brasileira Arrow

A bronze statue of Fernando Pessoa greets visitors at Café A Brasileira—the beloved poet frequented this joint to sip absinthe. One of Lisbon’s oldest (and perhaps most famous) cafés, this circa-1905 institution was, in its heyday, a grand place for writers and intellectuals to convene. Today it's a bit of a tourist trap, but don’t let that deter you. The Art Deco backdrop, complete with dark wood, splashes of brass, mirrors, and a black-and-white floor, is like a piece of Portugal’s heritage, reborn.

Jéronimos Monastery Arrow

Set close to Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery is a limestone-clad Manueline masterpiece that was built for the Hieronymite Monastery on the site of an old church—the one where Vasco da Gama and his crew spent their last night in Portugal before their famed seafaring sojourn to India. The massive structure, which commenced building in 1501, took a century to complete. History geeks and architecture nerds will appreciate wandering through here, but it’s not hard for anyone to succumb to the UNESCO site’s staggering size and grandeur.

Clube de Fado Arrow

In Alfama, a five-minute walk from the Museu do Fado, the Portuguese music adventure continues at Clube de Fado. This warm restaurant and performance venue, awash in red, combines the Portuguese guitar and melancholy fado vocals with homestyle cuisine. Nightly fado performances by artists like Cuca Roseta and Sofia Ramos are buoyed by the guitar wizardry of Clube de Fado owner Mário Pacheco, the son of famed fado guitarist António Pacheco. The performers, whether old-timers or emerging talents, give it their all in a retro setting.

Belém Tower Arrow

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Belém Tower was built on the northern bank of the Tagus River between 1514 and 1520 by architect Francisco de Arruda. Also known as the Tower of St. Vincent, it was originally constructed to defend the city. Later, the fortress acquired new life as both a lighthouse and customs office. No need to be a history buff to enjoy the power of this place. Beware the narrow stairs, though—navigating the building’s five floors and rooftop terrace requires stamina, but the trek to the top is rewarded with killer views.

Pastéis de Belém Arrow

You can find delicious versions of pastel de nata, Portugal’s signature confection, throughout Lisbon. But none of these cinnamon-dusted egg custard tarts are as entrenched in Portuguese history as the ones served at this Belém institution. The shop, originally part of a sugar refinery, has been cranking out this proprietary recipe—an ancient one embraced by monks of the adjacent Jerónimos Monastery—since 1837. Buy a six-pack and reserve time to enjoy them leisurely inside the retro, blue-and-white tiled room. Sipping a coffee while watching excited visitors taking their first bite is itself a Lisbon attraction.

Santa Justa Lift Arrow

This might just be the world’s most beautiful elevator. Designed by Portugal native Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, the vertical lift—also known as the Elevador do Carmo—made its debut in 1902. Mesnier du Ponsard was a student of Gustave Eiffel, so it’s not surprising that the public elevator, crafted from cast iron and embellished with filigree, flaunts a distinct turn-of-the-century French style. A seemingly endless queue translates into a frustrated crowd; still, though, visitors stick it out—the gorgeous sliver of transportation and architectural history is well worth it.

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Lisbon, Portugal; an independent tourism guide for 2024

Lisbon is the stunning capital city of Portugal, and is one of the most charismatic and vibrant cities in Europe.

It is a city that effortlessly blends traditional heritage with striking modernism and progressive thinking.

As a holiday destination, Lisbon offers you a rich and varied history, buzzing nightlife, and is blessed with a glorious year-round climate. This article will show why you must visit Lisbon, and offers tips on how to get the most from your holiday here.

The Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge spanning the Tejo Estuary

Why visit Lisbon?

Lisbon is a bustling and exciting city that boasts a wide selection of activities and fascinating tourist attractions. It has a welcoming and liberal atmosphere, while still embracing its deep-rooted heritage and extensive history.

Lisbon appeals to a diverse range of ages and tourists, from those seeking a cultural trip, relaxed city break or family holiday, to those who visit for its vibrant nightlife. Lisbon can even make a fantastic base for a beach holiday.

The Portuguese capital is consistently recognised as one of the greatest cities in the world, which is why millions of visitors choose to head here every year. The city is rapidly changing with the influx of tourism and foreign investment, but it still holds on to its unique charm and distinctive Portuguese character.

Lisbon is truly one of the finest cities of Europe, and is a destination you should definitely visit if you get the chance.

The delightful Torre de Belém once guarded the entrance to the Tejo Estuary

The best experiences of Lisbon

With a population of 2.9 million, a history spanning over 2,000 years, and its status as one of Europe's most liberal cities, expect a diverse range of sights and attractions to await you. A selection of Lisbon’s most notable and unique experiences include:

• Riding the number 28 tram , the traditional 1930s yellow that rattles and screeches through the historic centre of Lisbon. • Visiting the historic Belem district , with its many fascinating sights including the delightful Torre de Belem and Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. • Socialising in the many bars of the Barrio Alto district and then partying the night away in the clubs on Pink Street.

• Exploring the labyrinth of narrow streets in the Alfama district , which climb up from the river to the Castelo de São Jorge . • Savouring the unique meals and dining experiences in Lisbon, from traditional Tasca cafes to exquisite Michelin-star establishments. • Admiring the historic and architectural splendour of the Baixa district with its magnificent plazas, grand avenues, and lively atmosphere.

• Joining a romantic sunset boat cruise along the Tejo Estuary and viewing the city from the waterside. • Embracing authentic Portuguese culture in the Graça or Príncipe Real districts, with their sociable cafes and bustling shopping streets. • Discovering Lisbon’s creative and artisan side in LxFactory and the Alcântara district , or the up-and-coming Beato neighbourhood. Related articles: The top 10 sights and activities in Lisbon - The secret sights of Lisbon

Enjoying the sunset overlooking the Tejo Estuary

How long to spend in Lisbon?

There is a lot to see and do in Lisbon, and the recommended length of time for discovering the city is three days, but there are enough varied sights to easily fill five days of sightseeing. Many visitors wish to combine their time in Lisbon with a day trip to the wondrous town of Sintra to see the Pena Palace and gardens of the Quinta da Regaleira. During the summer, you may wish to take a day trip to Cascais or relax on the region’s beautiful beaches.

Other popular day trips from Lisbon include the port city of Setubal, the walled town of Óbidos, Mafra’s magnificent palace, the surfing town of Ericeira, the historic city of Evora, or the beautiful beaches of Sesimbra. If you prefer a relaxing holiday there are the glorious beaches of Carcavelos and Cascais, or you could go surfing on the Costa da Caparica.

Simply put, there is ample to do within Lisbon and the surrounding region to fill your entire holiday.

For a city break or Lisbon as part of a touring holiday we would suggest the following itinerary: A city-break of three days in Lisbon Day 1 – Explore the historic centre of Lisbon, which covers the Alfama, Baixa, and Cais do Sodre districts. Sights include Lisbon Castle, Praça do Comércio, Se Cathedral and a ride on the number 28 tram. The day could be finished with a sunset boat cruise and a meal in the TimeOut market.

Day 2 – Visit the Belem district and see the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Torre de Belem and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos. Afterwards, you could explore the Alcântara district and LxFactory. For the evening, head to Bairro Alto.

Day 3 – Visit the Parque das Nações in the morning. For the afternoon, visit either the Estrela and Príncipe Real districts or the Graça district, with its many murals. In the evening watch the sunset from the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and then end the night at Pink Street. For a detailed three-day itinerary please click here .

If you are fortunate to have a weeklong holiday to Lisbon a suggested itinerary could be: Day 4 – Day trip to Sintra (Pena Palace, Moors Castle and Quinta da Regaleira) Day 5 – Day trip to Cascais and its beautiful beaches Day 6 – Day trip to Setubal or Sesimbra Day 7 – Day trip to Óbidos or Mafra Palace and Ericeira Read our suggested itineraries: 1 week in Lisbon

Lisbon extends over seven steep hills; expect a lot of uphill walking!

• Where to stay in Lisbon?

For your first visit to Lisbon, it is recommended that you choose a base close to the historic centre; this covers the districts of Baixa, Alfama, Chiado, Bairro Alto and the Avenida da Liberdade. These areas are popular with tourists and within easy walking distance of the main sights and attractions.

The Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodre districts are the nightlife areas of Lisbon, so these are a good choice of base for a party-focused trip. The stylish Avenida da Liberdade is the location of many of Lisbon’s high-end hotels, making it the perfect place to stay for a luxury holiday.

Alfama is an ancient and characterful district, but the narrow, steep streets can be very draining in the summer heat. The Mouraria district and the Avenida Almirante Reis provide cheaper options for backpackers and budget travellers, but these are not areas we would recommend to older or less clued-up travellers.

If you are travelling for business, consider a base in the Parque das Nações district to the northeast of Lisbon, which contains many modern hotels and is close to the airport.

If you are new to Lisbon, the best five districts and neighbourhoods to be based in are: 1) Baixa 2) Avenida da Liberdade 3) Alfama 4) Bairro Alto/Chiado 5) Cais do Sodré

The map below displays the tourist areas of central Lisbon

Districts: 1) Baixa 2) Avenida da Liberdade 3) Alfama 4) Bairro Alto/Chiado 5) Cais do Sodré 6) Príncipe Real 7) Graça 8) Martim Moniz, Intendente and Anjos (green metro region) 9) Mouraria 10) Estrela

The map below shows the location of hotels and rental rooms in central Lisbon. By altering the date to suit your holiday, the map will display current prices:

Related articles: Where to stay in Lisbon?

The Parque das Naçoes is the ultra-modern side of historic Lisbon.

When to visit Lisbon?

Lisbon has hot, dry summers, and the city is pleasant in spring and autumn. In winter it will be mild, but possibly wet. The best time of year to visit Lisbon is in late spring (May to June), when the days are bright and sunny but the temperatures are not unbearably hot.

The peak season is between June and August, so if you visit at this time of year you should expect the city to feel very crowded. The weather is suitable for spending time on the beach from May until the end of September.

There can be a significant amount of rain during the winter months (November to February), but the city offers many indoor activities for those wet days. Lisbon is year-round tourist destination, and all tourist sights and activities remain open for the whole year. Related articles: When to visit Lisbon? - Activities for a wet day

The daytime maximum temperature (measured in the shade) and night-time minimum

The average hours of sunshine per day and the strength of the sun

The average amount of rain and number of wet days

Lisbon for 2024

Lisbon is expecting a sell-out summer season for 2024, and this follows the incredibly busy summer season of 2023. If you are serious about planning a trip to Lisbon, it is advisable to book your flights and accommodation as soon as possible; the best deals will sell-out.

As a popular destination for weekend city breaks, flights on Friday evenings and Sundays or Mondays tend to sell out quickly.

Rossio plaza is the heart of Lisbon

Are there beaches close to Lisbon?

Lisbon is close to a stunning coastline boasting beautiful sandy beaches and dramatic natural scenery. Many of the region's finest beaches are only a short bus or train ride away from central Lisbon.

There are two sandy coastlines easily accessible from Lisbon; the Cascais to Estoril coastline (to the west of Lisbon) and Costa da Caparica (to the south of Lisbon).

Slightly further out (and needing a car to visit) are the wild beaches of the Serra de Sintra coastline and the paradise beaches of the Serra da Arrábida.

Our Opinion: The beaches of the Lisbon region are just as beautiful as the Algarve, so there is no need to travel hundreds of miles to find the best stretches of coast. Related articles: Lisbon beach guide - Costa da Caparica

The vast Praia de Carcavelos beach, only a short train ride from central Lisbon

Is Lisbon suitable for children and families?

Lisbon is a good choice of destination if you want to take your family on a city break. There are many child-friendly tourist attractions, such as the Oceanarium, tram rides, Lisbon Zoo, or the Pavilhão do Conhecimento (interactive science museum).

The Portuguese have a family-focused culture, and children will be welcomed in all restaurants, hotels and shops. Lisbon is a relatively safe city, but the main consideration with regard to children is the very high temperatures in summer. Related articles: Lisbon for Families

A ride on the number 28 tram will be a highlight of a trip to Lisbon

What are the best day trips from Lisbon?

There are many enjoyable day trips from Lisbon, and these can greatly extend a stay within the city. The most popular day trips are to Sintra and Cascais.

Sintra sits in the cooling hills of the Serra de Sintra and is the setting for many marvellous palaces and villas, including the Pena Palace and the Moorish castle. Cascais is a charming resort town, which has a delightful historic centre and is surrounded by beautiful beaches.

Other excellent day trips include the pretty beach town of Sesimbra, the magnificent palace of Mafra, the picturesque walled town of Obidos and the port city of Setubal. All of these destinations can be easily reached using public transport. Related articles: Day trips from Lisbon – Sintra Guide – Cascais Guide – Sesimbra Guide

The magnificent Pena Palace in the Sintra hills

Is Lisbon an expensive destination?

Lisbon is one of Europe's least expensive capital cities, offering exceptional value for food, drink and public transport. Entrance fees to the historical monuments are sensibly priced, but gimmicky tourist activities (tuk-tuks, bus tours) can be expensive.

There are many great value places to eat and drink, most notably the Tascas. These cheap, no-frills, family-run restaurants typically serve a 'meal of the day' for less than €8 and can be found along almost every street in Lisbon (and Portugal)!

Overall, Lisbon provides excellent value for money. However, accommodation and flights should always be booked well in advance to secure the lowest prices. Related articles: Cost of a holiday to Lisbon - Traditional meals to try while in Lisbon

Where to fly into, for Lisbon?

Lisbon Airport is the main international airport of Portugal, providing direct connections to all major European cities and many larger cities across the world. The airport itself is conveniently located within the city limits, and onward travel is extremely easy using the metro.

The airport has two terminals, with Terminal 1 handling international arrivals and most departures. While the building itself is quite dated, it has all the expected facilities of a major international airport. Terminal 2 handles departures only for the low-cost airlines and is very basic.

Insight: Portugal is a relatively small country with an excellent express train network connecting Porto, Lisbon and the Algarve. It is fairly easy to fly into one of Portugal's three airports (Lisbon, Porto and Faro) and travel by train to a different region of the country. Related articles: Lisbon airport to the city centre - Lisbon airport guide - Terminal 2 guide

Terminal 1 at Lisbon airport and the entrance to the metro, which is the best way to travel to the city centre

Is Lisbon Safe?

Compared to many other major cities, Lisbon is relatively safe. Tourists may occasionally encounter pickpockets or opportunistic thieves, but if you use the same common sense that you would use back at home then you should have no issues. Related articles: Is Lisbon safe?

Will Language be an issue?

English is much more widely spoken in Portugal than in Spain, France or Italy. Everyone who works within tourism speaks English fluently, while all transport hubs (metro, railways and airports) have English as their second language.

All restaurants have English menus, and most historical sights and attractions have descriptions in both Portuguese and English.

While it is not expected for foreign visitors to speak Portuguese, residents do appreciate it if you make an effort to speak a few words in their language. Overall, it is unlikely that you will encounter any difficulties communicating in English during your holiday in Lisbon.

Should I rent a car while in Lisbon?

A car is not necessary for your stay in Lisbon due to the availability of the excellent public transportation and inexpensive taxis, Uber or Bolts. Often a car would be more of an inconvenience due to the lack of parking, heavily congested roads and erratic driving of the Portuguese.

You do not need a car for the popular day trips such as Sintra, Cascais, or Obidos, as there is good public transport to these from Lisbon. A car could be a useful option if you plan on exploring areas outside of the city, such as the Serra da Arrábida, the Serra de Sintra or the Alentejo region. Related articles: The best driving routes of the Lisbon region

A car is needed to visit the Serra da Arrábida coastline

Discover more of Lisbon with our most popular guides

Home page and introduction to Lisbon

Top 10 Lisbon

What are the best sights and activities in Lisbon?

Secret Lisbon

Hidden gems and authentic experiences of Lisbon

Where to stay?

Which district should you be based in?

48 hours Lisbon

How to get the most from just 48 hours in Lisbon

Dishes to try

Delicious meals and authentic dishes to try while in Lisbon

Lisbon day trips

Lisbon's beaches

Lisbon is surrounded by glorious beaches

3 days in Lisbon

Three days is the ideal time to spend in Lisbon

1 week holiday

Lisbon is outstanding for a longer holiday

Only 24 hours

Cram all of your sightseeing into a single day!

Lisbon for families

Is Lisbon a good destination for families?

Baixa district

The grand and impressive heart of Lisbon

Belem district

Iconic monuments and rich seafaring heritage

Where to Shop?

Where are the best areas and shopping centres in Lisbon?

Alfama district

A labyrinth of narrow streets hides authentic Lisbon

Lisbon sunsets

Where to watch the sunset in Lisbon?

Parque das Nações

The ultra-modern side to historic Lisbon

Alcântara district

Lisbon’s trendy and artisan district

Ancient castles & opulent palaces - the best day trip from Lisbon

Costa da Caparica

23km of beautiful beaches south of Lisbon – perfect for a beach day!

Beautiful beaches, culture and atmosphere, the best resort near Lisbon

So many romantic and scenic viewpoints

Airport guide

Airport guide and onward travel from the airport

Cost of a holiday

Is Lisbon expensive? What budget to take?

Infrequently it rains, but what activities are there?

Art & museums

The culturally rich museums and galleries of Lisbon

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A complete list of all of our Lisbon articles

Getting started

• Lisbon introduction
• How long in Lisbon?
• Lisbon for seniors
• Lisbon's best hotels
• Cost to visit Lisbon
• Lisbon's best museums
• Lisbon for a rainy day
• Is Lisbon walkable
• Is Lisbon safe?
• Lisbon on a budget

Lisbon's districts

Alfama Belem Baixa District Parque Nações Cais do Sodre Príncipe Real

Sightseeing

• Shopping in Lisbon
• Lisbon's best markets
• Lisbon Parks
• Castelo de São Jorge
• Elevador de Santa Justa
• Torre de Belem
• Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• Largo do Carmo
• Ponte 25 de Abril
• Senhora do Monte
• São Pedro de Alcântara
• Elevador da Bica
• Elevador da Glória
• Elevador do Lavra

Transport guides

• Lisbon airport
• Airport to city centre
• Metro guide
• Cruise ship guide
• Ferry guide
• To Christo Rei Statue
• Lisbon to Porto

Itineraries

• 24 hours in Lisbon
• 48 hours in Lisbon
• Lisbon in 3 days
• 1 week in Lisbon
• A weekend city break
• 5 days in Lisbon
• Lisbon to Porto Tour
• Lisbon beach guide
• The Lisbon coastline
• Praia Carcavelos

Lisbon Trams

• Tram No. 15

Lisbon's stations

Orient train station Apolonia train station Cais do Sodré station Sete Rios bus station Rossio train station

• Lisbon or Barcelona
• Sousse in November

The Lisbon region

Day trips from Lisbon

• Sintra introduction
• Sights of Sintra
• Day trip to Sintra
• Lisbon to Sintra
• Sintra beaches
• Sintra tourist bus 434
• Palacio da Pena
• Palácio de Monserrate
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Parque da Pena
• Castelo dos Mouros
• Cascais introduction
• Day trip to Cascais
• Cascais beach guide
• Cascais sights
• Cabo da Roca
• Lisbon to Cascais
• Evora guide
• Evora sights
• Evora day trip
• Bone Chapel
• Lisbon to Evora
• The Alentejo region
• Sesimbra intorduction
• Sesimbra sightseeing
• Sesimbra beaches
• Lisbon to Sesimbra
• Cabo Espichel
• Obidos Introduction
• Things to see in Obidos
• Obidos day trip
• Ericeira introduction
• Lisbon to Ericeira
• Ericeira beaches
• Setubal introduction
• Serra da Arrabida
• Peninsula de Troia

Central Portugal

• Berlengas Islands

Portugal Guides

• Where to go in Portugal?
• 1 week in Portugal
• Portugal airports
• Portugal weather
• Best beaches
• Top 10 Algarve
• Portugal in June
• Portugal in September
• Portugal in November
• Where to Live in Portugal

North Portugal

• Douro Valley
• Serra da Estrela
• Viana do Castelo
• Porto where to stay
• How Long in Porto
• Porto sightseeing
• Porto beaches
• Porto in 1 Day
• Porto in 3 Days
• Porto 1 Week
• Foz do Douro
• Linha do Douro
• Port Cellars
• Airport to City
• Porto Trams

South Portugal

• Algarve introduction
• Albufeira guide
• Albufeira activities
• Albufeira beaches
• Day trip to Albufeira
• Albufeira boat trips
• Carvoeiro beaches
• Percurso dos Sete Vales hike
• Sights and activities
• Faro beaches
• Funchal introduction
• Lagos guide
• Lagos beaches
• Praia da Marinha
• Praia da Rocha
• Praia da Rocha beaches
• Tavira guide
• Tavira sights
• Tavira Beaches
• Vilamoura beaches
• Vila Nova de Milfontes

Lisbon, Portugal; the best independent tourism guide for 2024 © 2009-2024 LisbonLisboaPortugal.com - Privacy Policy and Contact Us

The best guide to Lisbon

Visit Lisbon: Your Guide on Weather, Hotels, Things to Do and more

If you are planning a trip to Lisbon, Portugal, then this is the article for you!

Here, you will be able to find all you need to know about Lisbon – from when to visit, what to do and see, where to stay, what to eat and more.

Got your attention?

Why you should visit Lisbon, Portugal

Discover the beautiful city of Lisbon (“Lisboa” in Portuguese) and the best reasons to visit Lisbon. We will approach numerous topics like the weather, places to visit, places to shop, where to stay and the cost of these things.

There are many reasons to visit Lisbon, below you’ll find out the most popular ones.

Where is Lisbon?

Let’s start from the beginning: location.

As you probably already know, Lisbon is the capital of Portugal. Portugal is a Mediterranean country in the Iberian Peninsula, right next to Spain, with a huge coastline on the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the coolest things about Lisbon is that the city is located close to the ocean, which means you can enjoy the sun and the beaches almost all year long.

When is the best time to visit Lisbon?

Just like the rest of Portugal, Lisbon has a mild Mediterranean climate. This means that the four seasons exist, but the most noticeable ones are winter and summer.

Winter is somewhat rainy and windy, but don’t worry, it doesn’t last long and even on those days, you’ll still be able to see some sunshine.

Summer, however, makes it worth visiting Lisbon! Although summer officially begins in June, you can enjoy really good weather starting from March with temperatures already getting up around 20°C (68°F).

That means you have almost nine months of the year with the weather on your side and can do (almost) whatever you want!

For more details on the seasons, check out our article:  Lisbon Weather.

Top things to see and do in Lisbon, Portugal

The truth is that Lisbon is like a whole world in one city, so you should try to allocate more than one day to visit Lisbon.

Lisbon is a city of contrasts. You can easily find a mix of:

• Ancient buildings;
• Contemporary buildings;
• Post-earthquake buildings; and
• Dictatorial era buildings.

We thought about a list of very special places you should visit in Lisbon. Most of the time, it’s not only about the place, it’s about the experience it provides you.

We’ve done the hard work and listed our  Top 5 Lisbon Tours here.  Check it out now.

Downtown Augusta Street, the Rossio Square and “Terreiro do Paço”

Augusta Street (“Rua Augusta”) is a very famous street in downtown Lisbon. It is a typical Portuguese street with the “Calçada Portuguesa” (Portugal’s unique pavement style) and the beautiful Portuguese building style.

This street connects two very important squares that are also worth visiting: the Commerce Square (“Praça do Comércio” or “Terreiro do Paço”) and the Rossio Square (“Praça do Rossio”).

Try starting your walk in the Rossio Square, then walk down Augusta Street and end up in “Terreiro do Paço”. This is a very enjoyable walk towards the river Tagus (“Tejo”).

The Santa Justa Lift

While you’re on Augusta Street, try finding the Santa Justa Lift (“Elevador de Santa Justa”), also called the Carmo Lift (“Elevador do Carmo”), and take it up to the top. When you get there, you’ll find out why it’s worth it.

From this viewpoint, you will have a unique panoramic view over Lisbon.

You should see:

• Terreiro do Paço;
• Saint Jorge’s Castle (“São Jorge Castle”);
• The Lisbon Cathedral (“Sé de Lisboa”); and
• The Tagus River (“Tejo”).

Hint: You can also visit Saint Jorges Castle, the Cathedral, the National Pantheon or get your feet wet in the Tagus river.

We publish new content every day so be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get notified of the latest tips for your visit to Portugal.

Lisbon downtown: “Chiado”

Here is another great zone to visit; Lisbon downtown. If you follow our advice, you will surely be absolutely amazed by the: architecture, streets, people, restaurants, street artists and cafés.

Speaking of cafés, we recommend trying “Café A Brasileira”, a café from 1905, and take a picture with Fernando Pessoa, the famous Portuguese poet.

Visit the Chiado Warehouses (“Armazéns do Chiado”). As the name suggests, these are some very old warehouses in the area which gave way to a large modern shopping centre that you might enjoy visiting.

Tram number 28 (“Elétrico 28”)

If you don’t have much time to spend in the area, try hopping on the 28 Tram. For the Portuguese in the area, it is a common (and most appreciated) means of transportation.

However, for tourists, it is a quicker way to get to know numerous historical sites of Lisbon. If you have the opportunity, try catching it near “Cemitério dos Prazeres”– a beautiful cemetery located on the border of the Estrela and Campo de Ourique neighborhoods.

If you’re lucky enough, you might see some artists performing “ Fado ” (a unique Portuguese music style) live, on the tram.

You can book a tram ride and walking tour of the Alfama region before getting there, through our good friends at Get Your Guide. You get instant confirmation after booking and there is a really easy cancellation policy if you change your mind. This three-hour tram tour includes a live guide and booklets in English. To book, click here .

25th of April Bridge “Ponte 25 de Abril”, docks, and Belém

If you decide to travel towards the river Tagus (“Tejo”), follow it until you get below the 25th of April Bridge and enjoy the view.

You can also enjoy a good espresso at the bars and restaurants beneath the bridge (this area is called the “docks”), while contemplating the statue of Jesus Christ (“Cristo Rei”), on the other side of the river. If you wish, you can also visit and climb up the “Cristo Rei”. Take a train across the bridge or board a boat to get to the other side.

In case you wish to continue walking along the riverside, go on until you reach Belém. That’s a must see.

Take some time to visit these famous attractions:

• The Monument of the Discoveries (“Padrão dos Descobrimentos”);
• Belém Tower (“Torre de Belém”);
• Jerónimos Monastery ;
• the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology).

Pastel de Belém

You can stop and have a picnic on the grass near the Belém Tower or you could enjoy a delicious and traditional “Pastel de Belém” at the traditional factory and café, Pasteis de Belém . This is a typical type of pastry that will definitely surprise you.

As mentioned, you will most probably need a few days to visit all the places Lisbon has to offer. You can always try getting more information by visiting one of the Lisbon’s Tourist Centres .

Want more? Have a look at  Facts about Lisbon.

Where to stay in Lisbon, Portugal

If you are coming from out of town and don’t have anywhere you could crash for a few days, we might be able to help you.

Depending on your budget, you could stay at one of the best hotels in Lisbon, like:

• Corpo Santo Hotel ;
• Hotel Avenida Palace ;
• Hotel Valverde ; or
• Santiago de Alfama .

For a lower price (but still high quality) you could try a hostel or guesthouse like:

• Pensão Londres ;
• Safira ; or
• Residencial Roxi .

To know more about hostels, you might like our article:  10 Best Hostels in Lisbon.

Other activities in Lisbon, Portugal

As we mentioned before, Lisbon has a world to offer. You only need to have time to enjoy it all.

Beaches in Lisbon

We’ve already talked about the places to visit. But just so you know, there are a lot of beaches you can go to in the area. Try venturing to the  Praia de Carcavelos at Avenida Marginal on the way to Cascais and have a look at the surfers. Or you could go to Estoril or Cascais and enjoy the spectacular beaches.

You might also consider going to some beautiful beaches that extend from Costa da Caparica to Sesimbra , south of the Tagus River.

If you’d like to know more about Lisbon’s beaches, check out this article:  Lisbon Beaches: A Full Guide to Lisbon’s Best Places to Swim and Surf

Shopping in Lisbon

In case you are interested in shopping, Lisbon offers you a huge variety of stores. In the “Chiado” area and on Augusta Street, you’ll find many typical small stores.

If you are looking for high fashion stores, try Liberdade Avenue (“Avenida da Liberdade”).

Eating in Lisbon

If, on the other hand, you wish to enjoy some really good food, you could visit the TimeOut Market (also known as the “Mercado da Ribeira”) in Cais do Sodré for a market-like food concept. But truth be told, any restaurant that will present you with a good “Bacalhau” or “Feijoada” dish is really an excellent option.

Want to know what the most typical Portuguese foods are? Have a look at:  Portuguese Food: The Dishes You Need to Try in Portugal

Is Lisbon expensive to visit?

Well, that really depends. The cost of living in Portugal is not as high as in the rest of southern Europe, therefore Lisbon is probably cheaper than other capitals.

Cost of flights

There are a lot of flights for €150 or less from numerous places in Europe if you buy in advance.

Don’t get lost at the airport, read this handy guide to Lisbon Airport .

Cost of accommodation

The accommodation like hotels in Lisbon Portugal can be really inexpensive, depending on your personal choices. But count on about €30 to €50 per night per person.

You can find more details in our article:  Lisbon Hotels.

Cost of transportation

Public transportation is really cheap and you can always get a daily ticket (about €6) and use the bus, tram, Metro, ferry and some train services as many times as you wish within 24 hours.

Cost of food

We would say that for the whole experience you might pay about €10 to €15 for a typical lunch if you order the Menu of the Day, and about €15 to €20 for dinner.

Therefore, say you experience Lisbon for five days, eat good food and stay in good places, visiting Lisbon can be as cheap as €600 (flight included) or less.

How long should you spend in Lisbon, Portugal?

It all depends on what you would like to see and what time of the year you come to visit. For example, I would allow about three or four days if you are coming in winter or spring and just plan on seeing the city sights.

If you like museums, you should read:  Top 15 Museums in Lisbon.

When the weather gets nice and warm, you could easily stay a week because there’s always a day out at the beach, or visiting the castle at Sintra or taking your time to enjoy the sun in many gardens and parks the city has to offer.

Want to see which monuments in Lisbon are the most important? Check out our  Top 10 Monuments in Lisbon.

Is Lisbon safe for tourists?

Yes, absolutely. Lisbon has a really low crime rate in comparison to a lot of big European cities. In most areas of Lisbon, you can walk around at night without a problem. The locals are very friendly and helpful in case you need something or some help.

Of course, as in most busy touristy areas, you should always keep an eye on your belongings and watch out for the usual pickpockets.

You’ll never forget your visit to Lisbon in Portugal

So there you have it. Beautiful city, beautiful landscape and architecture, delicious food, excellent vibe, and many, many places to visit. All in one: Lisbon!

One last tip: Get yourself a Lisbon Card here and enjoy unlimited public transport, access to 23 museums and discounts in many shops and restaurants for only €19 for 24 hours! It’s really great value, trust me!

Did we convince you to visit Lisbon? Do you have any questions for our team of locals? Let us know in the comments below.

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21 Things To Know Before You Visit Lisbon, Portugal

Have you been wondering, “is Lisbon worth visiting…?”

Well seriously, just stop, because the answer is YES.

Back in 2016, whenever I saw something about Lisbon I would think it sounded like a cool place to go but I never ranked it super high on my must-visit list.

Then for some reason, I started to see it EVERYWHERE. I swear every second travel blogger I met was moving to Lisbon, and it was on all the lists of the best places to visit in Europe. And that hasn’t changed!

While  living in Spain for a year I knew I wanted to try and travel to Lisbon. Then not long before I left I finally had the chance to visit Lisbon and find out for myself why it’s a top European destination.

Spoiler alert, I LOVED it.

So now I want to help you out with my best tips on Lisbon, what Lisbon is famous for, and things to know before you plan a trip to Portugal!

Why visit Lisbon? Is it worth visiting?

Well, I’d been told Portugal is great for solo travel , but also that spending a weekend in Lisbon with family or friends is a must. But I wanted to find out for myself!

The thing is there’s something in Lisbon for everyone and that’s why it’s become so popular in recent years, before you know what at least. And now it’s back!

Yes, Lisbon is worth visiting, but be prepared for lots of other people to think so too!

I learned a thing or two about what to do in Lisbon, what not to miss, what Lisbon is known for and some awesome stuff about the city and Portugal as a whole while I was there.

Instead of the usual “what to visit in Lisbon”, “top things to see”, “what to do”, or “where to go”, blog about Lisbon, I’ve compiled this list of quirky and fun facts about Lisbon that also includes lots of little tips for planning your Lisbon trip.

You’ll find out what you need to know before you go and what makes Lisbon worth adding to your bucket list!

Lisbon is the second oldest capital city in Europe

After Athens, Lisbon is the capital city in Europe that has been around for the longest. And that’s saying something given all of the history around here!

Lisbon was first ruled by the Romans, Germans, and Arabs until 1147 when Portuguese crusaders finally conquered it.

You can find out more about the history of Lisbon through the ages at the Lisbon Museum (Museu de Lisboa) and even see maps of Lisbon before the large earthquake in 1755 that destroyed much of the city. 

However, interestingly enough Lisbon has been an economic, political and cultural center for so long that it was never officially confirmed as Portugal’s capital city! It’s just by default and convention that it’s become so. 

Portuguese is the official language

For some reason, it’s a common misconception that people in Portugal speak Spanish.

Although Portugal may be next to Spain it does have it’s own language, and although you might find that Spanish is a common second language or can be somewhat understood, that doesn’t mean people want to speak it all the time!

In fact, you’ll find that a lot of people, and especially young people, speak English more than Spanish as a second language.

When you’re in Lisbon don’t just assume Spanish is the default second language.

Make an effort to learn up some Portuguese words (you’ll find a guide to some of the best ones to try further down) because it will certainly be appreciated!

Fado is the traditional style of music

“Fado” means destiny or fate in Portuguese. It’s also a traditional form of music that is known for its soulful and often melancholy tone, and it usually has a connection to the sea.

Instruments like guitars and mandolins form the basis of the art, with one singer performing the poetic lyrics.

Fado has been around in the port districts of Lisbon since around the early 19th century. Alfama is one of those port districts, and on a walk through here in the evening Fado music is inescapable.

There are many places offering combined meal and performance deals, but the best are those where you don’t need to pay for an expensive meal to see the show.

We sat down to have a meal at a restaurant and were treated to a beautiful impromptu performance. The couple came around selling copies of their CD to those who might want it afterwards, but there was no obligation to pay. 

Alfama has become much more popular in recent years, but if you’re wondering where to go in Lisbon to see a Fado performance I’d still recommend it.

Add Fado to your must-see in Lisbon list!

While it is possible to see a performance by chance, you can also book a dinner and show combination. Just make sure you read all of the reviews and check the price of the meal compared to what you’ll receive. It doesn’t have to be expensive! 

You can book a Fado and dinner tour here!

Lisbon is one of the best budget cities in Europe

Lisbon provides excellent quality food, great accommodation, and nightlife for a fraction of the cost of some of Europe’s other capital cities, especially in the west and the north.

There are many free and outdoor attractions and the cost of entering museums isn’t prohibitive to those on a tighter budget. 

For this reason, Lisbon makes a great European budget holiday destination. Beer is as cheap as €2 in many places, to give you an idea!

You’ll be able to grab baked goods for breakfast and lunch on the go to save money as well, but you can also enjoy more luxury drinks and meals at a lower cost than other capital cities, making this a place for budget and luxury travellers.

There are lots of different neighbourhoods to choose from for your Lisbon accommodation which have different price ranges as well, and hostels for budget backpackers.

Check out some ideas on where to stay further down. 

Read More: Lisbon in Winter: Falling in Love with Portugal in Off-Season

There are a lot of hills in Lisbon

Lisbon is built on seven hills. That means a lot of work for your calf muscles, but also some beautiful views to make up for it!

When you’re planning your Lisbon itinerary make sure you add in a few viewpoints so that you can see the city from above.

Miradouro das Portas do Sol is a popular place to stop for the view and a rest, as is Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. For something a little further out, try the viewpoint of Monte Agudo or the Observation Deck at Park Eduardo VII. 

Living in Wellington, New Zealand, for most of my early adult life means I’m no stranger to hills, but Lisbon surprised even me and definitely gave me a workout!

In downtown Lisbon along the Avenida da Liberdade it’s all flat, but venture slightly outwards in any direction and you’re met with steeply sloping hills.

Luckily the number 28 tram or a tuk-tuk will help with those!

Take a ride on the 28 line tram

Wondering what Lisbon is known for?

Lisbon is famous for its number 28 yellow tram and is one major reason why people visit, after seeing iconic photos of it moving through the narrow city streets. There are actually a number of trams that run all over the city as well the specific tourist trams.

The traditional number 28 costs about €3.00 per person and services run from around 6 am until 9 pm. You can purchase a ticket from the driver or a machine onboard. The tram goes between Alfama in the east and Praça do Martim Moniz in the west.

The classic 1930s trams are still in use today because the tight curves and steep hills are unsuitable for modern trams.

We rode from Alfama all the way to end in Estrela, which actually wasn’t the best idea because it stopped and we had to get off and wait to get on again to go back.

I would recommend stopping in the Bairro Alto if you’re heading west!

Be aware that the locals do use these trams as their public transport, so give up seats when you’re able to and queue patiently.

It may be best to book a tourist specific tram if you want to have commentary explaining the area and a seat. They do follow the same tracks too!

Read More:  Lisbon Itinerary: The Best of Lisbon in 2 Days

Lisbon is full of tuk-tuks

Lisbon is also full of tuk-tuks ready to take you up those seven hills!

They have only made an appearance in big numbers in the last few years, but tuk-tuks are now a popular way for tourists to navigate the narrow streets and not have to walk up the hills.

These vehicles were initially made in Italy post-WWII as a cheap way to increase transportation, but they caught on much more in crowded cities in Asia and Africa.

Now they’re back on the streets of Europe, and although taxi drivers may not be so happy about them, they do seem to suit the geography of Lisbon and look like they’ve been a part of the city for as long as the trams have.

If walking isn’t for you and you’re not keen on the tram then grabbing a tuk-tuk to take you to some of Lisbon’s top attractions and viewpoints could be the answer. 

The age of discovery began in Portugal

Dozens of exploratory voyages around the world began from Lisbon, so it feels right that travellers the world over should want to visit here and see where it all began.

A monument to the explorers of the world, many of them Portuguese, has been built on the bank of the Tagus river.

It’s a bit out of the city centre but I’d put it on your list of where to go in Lisbon, especially since there are lots of other top sites in Lisbon to see nearby, like Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery.

The Museu de Marinha located inside Jeronimos Monastery gives a great overview of the age of discovery and includes collections of model ships and artefacts from the time period. 

The buildings are covered in beautiful tiles

Many of the historic buildings in Lisbon are painted all sorts of colours or covered in unique tiles.

While tiles in art and inside buildings are common the world over, in Lisbon they became part of the architecture of the outside of the buildings themselves and have been given their own name, Azulejo Tiles or Azulejos. They first became popular in Portugal in the 1500s, before their popularity waned but was revived again in the 1950s. 

On a stroll around Lisbon today it’s impossible the miss the beautifully tiled buildings and the huge amount of street art that’s all over the city.

A must-do in Lisbon is to simply walk around, and look up (just be careful of the trams and other people when you do it!).

You can also visit the National Museum of the Azulejo which is dedicated to the tradition and explains how they are made and their spread across the Portuguese empire, or even purchase your own tiles to take home!

Codfish cakes are everywhere

Actually, cod is everywhere in Portugal, in almost every form.

I was reminded of Forest Gump when I saw some of the menus in Lisbon; fried cod, grilled cod, salted cod, codfish cakes… you get the idea!

However, codfish cakes are particularly popular and can be eaten as a takeaway snack or meal while you walk around. There are more traditional varieties as well as modern takes. 

We went to Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau on the main street in central Lisbon, where the traditional codfish cake is stuffed with delicious cheese and served with a side of white port wine.

You can watch the codfish cakes being made in the traditional way through a glass window.

And the verdict? I love fish cakes, so I thought they were awesome!

So are custard tarts

Pasteis de Nata are famous the world over for being from Portugal. If you’re wondering what food not to miss in Lisbon or even Portugal, then this is it.

When I first tried them in Macau, a former Portuguese colony, I wasn’t really sold on them because I’m not a huge fan of custard, so I wasn’t really thinking about them much before we went to Portugal. 

However, I knew I needed to give them another go, and I made an about-face on them this time! Now whenever someone mentions Portugal my mouth starts watering at the thought of Pasteis de nata…

If you haven’t tried one, they’re a small round flaky pastry with a custard filling. Some are more like traditional custard and some have a more eggy taste, for lack of a better description.

Everyone has their preference so try more than one!

They also come in chocolate varieties or with chocolate drizzle over the top. 

The most famous place to try Pasteis de nata is in Belem, at Pastéis de Belém, said to be the home of the Pasteis de nata. They have been made there since 1837 when it is said the nuns and monks starched their clothes with egg whites and used the leftover egg yolks in their cooking. 

In fact, the bakeries all over Lisbon are amazing

Depending on where you looked you could find some great deals for food in Lisbon, but I did think in some ways it was more expensive to eat out than in areas of Spain, for comparison. Or maybe I’m just too used to my free Spanish tapas in Almería !

There are lots of small independent hole-in-the-wall type places that serve a daily lunch deal often made up of traditional food like fish, potatoes, and rice. And there’s no shortage of more upmarket restaurants to try too.

My best tip is to look for where the locals are eating!

But Lisbon also has awesome bakeries where you can purchase both savoury and sweet food at a fraction of the restaurant cost.

We loved grabbing bakery food for breakfast and lunch most days. So many different things to try!

You can get fire-cooked chorizo at your table

While we’re on the topic of food, I have to take a moment to mention the delicious sausage that’s brought to your table on a fireproof plate and lit on fire to cook in front of you.

Chorizo is the most common type, but I’ve also seen black pudding type sausages done in this way. Whatever it is, it’s usually very flavoursome and makes an excellent accompaniment for bread and cheese. 

There are special dishes made just to put cooking alcohol in the bottom and light it on fire once it’s served. Allow the flame to burn out and then dig in!

And if you really love it, you can buy your own dish to take home too! 

Bairro Alto is a great place to go out and explore

The quiet cobblestones streets of Bairro Alto may look deceiving by day, but at nighttime, they come alive.

For a while now it has been the place to go out for a drink and a dance, with many bars spilling into the streets. It’s somewhat known as the bohemian area of Lisbon.  While it’s no longer a “hidden gem” and the secret about Bairro Alto is out, I still consider it a great place to explore in the evening and plan a meal or night out for at least one of your nights in Lisbon. 

You’ll also often hear Fado in the air in the evenings here, and there are lots of small bars and venues as well as larger restaurants to choose from.

Take a wander around during the day to scope out where you might want to go and make a booking if you really don’t want to miss out. 

Lisbon has a LOT of sunshine

Around 3000 hours a year to be exact, and it’s the sunniest capital in Europe, seeing even more sun than even Madrid, Rome, and Athens.

I’m often asked about the best time to visit Lisbon. But the truth is, you don’t really need to worry about when to travel to Lisbon because it’s likely there will be some sunshine for part of your stay at the very least!

We visited Lisbon in winter at the very beginning of January and it wasn’t as cold as you would think for a city on the Atlantic Ocean. I packed a coat, hat, and gloves, but didn’t need them every day. I have a short packing list below to help with your planning!

Although temperatures reach over 30C in the summer, the proximity of the Atlantic means cooler breezes make it more bearable, and I found that in the winter in Lisbon a warmer coat, scarf, and hat were fine.

And it was still sunny, of course!

Porto may be famous for Port, but the drink of choice in Lisbon is ginjinha

Ginginja, a red cherry liqueur, is all over Lisbon and surrounding places like Sintra .

Look for small vendors and kiosks that sell shots, sometimes in chocolate cups!

It’s a smooth liqueur that you should definitely try while you’re visiting Lisbon.

Of course, you can also get Port in Lisbon and if you’re only visiting Lisbon while you’re in Portugal then definitely give it a try while you’re there.

You can read more about all the different kinds of Port in this post . 

Read More: Exploring the Port Wine Cellars & Port Tastings in Porto

Eat dinner late in lisbon.

Of course, you can eat at any time you like, but the usual time to eat in Lisbon is later in the evening, like in many other southern European countries.

Bars and restaurants won’t be busy until 9 or even 10 pm, so plan your day accordingly and be prepared for a later meal if you want to have some more atmosphere and do as the locals do!

The food in Lisbon is a delight, ranging from Michelin star restaurants to local eateries. I loved trying out a range of different places across the city while we were there. 

Take a day trip to Sintra

There are lots of great day trips from Lisbon , but Sintra is one of the most well-known and popular.

Easily reached by public transport or car, Sintra has plenty to keep you occupied on a day trip. It’ll take you 40 minutes on the train and almost the same to drive to this magical town in the hills, but you’ll feel like you’ve come much further.

Read more: 15 Awesome Day Trips from Lisbon

There are many mansions and palaces throughout the woods in Sintra where Lisbon’s elite would come to escape the heat in the summer.

The crowning glory above them all is Palacio de Pena, built by a German prince who married into the Portuguese royal family. It’s extensive gardens and colourful architecture make it a must-visit place in Sintra. Just don’t go on one of the two days a year it’s closed, Christmas Day and New Years Day, like I did… Read: How to Have the Best One Day in Sintra

Book a Sintra Day Tour from Lisbon here!

The Tower of Belem looks like a fairytale castle on the sea

The Tower of Belem is a Unesco World Heritage site, along with the nearby Jeronimos Monastery. They’re a little further out of the city centre but well worth the trip to see.

It was originally built on an outcropping of rocks but as the shoreline next to it has changed over time it is now very close to the riverbank and at low tide, it looks completely connected.

Once involved in defending the city against foreign ships, it’s now one of the most popular things to see in Lisbon. Make sure you venture down to this part of Lisbon to learn more about the history of the city and the role it played in the age of discovery.

Plus you can visit Pastéis de Belém there too! It can get busy so consider booking in advance if you’re on a tight itinerary and don’t want to wait. 

Book your “skip the line” ticket here!

Cork products are everywhere

Portugal produces 50% of the worlds cork, so you’ll see it everywhere.

I was so confused about why there are entire stores devoted to cork products until I found this out!

Look out for postcards, bags, shoes; basically everything you can think of made with cork! If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a cork handbag, now’s the time to get it…

But in all seriousness, there are some lovely souvenir products. I bought two tiles with designs on them that are surrounded by cork and can be used for hot pans and dishes. We use them almost every day and they remind me of my trip to Lisbon! 

There’s a whole shop that just sells tinned fish

Lisbon hasn’t been overtaken by large department stores and is still home to a number of specialty and unique shops.

Conserveira de Lisboa is one of these shops and it sells only tinned fish. In keeping with tradition, the main cash register is the same one used in the 1930s! There are around 70 varieties of tinned fish in the store at any time, depending on the season.

The shop works with a biologist to maintain sustainable fishing practices, so that Portugal’s love affair with tinned fish, and their shop, can continue to prosper.

Keep an eye out for little gems like this as you walk around the streets of Lisbon. There are so many things to discover! 

And there you have it, 21 things about Lisbon that you should know before you visit, to help you with planning your Lisbon itinerary  and travel to Portugal.

Things to do and see, things to eat and enjoy, and what to expect from Portugal’s capital city! Is it enough for you to want to visit Lisbon?

Essential Lisbon Travel Info

Be prepared for Lisbon to be busy whenever you go. It’s become such a popular location and the subject of much discussion when it comes to overtourism and mass tourism.

Thanks to a combination of unemployment in Portugal, a rise in tourism in Europe and the comparably lower cost of Portugal compared to other destinations, plus websites like Airbnb giving locals a way to make more money but at the time making it more difficult to find places to live, Lisbon has seen a huge rise in visitor numbers and not all for the better.

Although things obviously changed recently, it’s expected tourism will be back in full force.

When you’re visiting Lisbon make an effort to shop and eat at local places, search off the beaten tourist track for new experiences, take tours with local organisations working to promote the culture of Lisbon and Portugal as a way to help preserve it.

The best time to visit Lisbon

I would recommend March to May, and September/October as the best time to visit Lisbon.

Lisbon is the most crowded in the summer, from June until August, so it’s better to avoid those months if you can.

I love travelling in Europe in the off-season and shoulder seasons for this reason!

Lisbon will still be warm during the best time to visit, but should be less busy than the peak summer months.

I also visited Lisbon at New Year and although it could be chillier in the evening it was sunny throughout the day and still one of the warmer places in Europe at this time!

How long to spend in Lisbon

Although Lisbon is a fairly compact city, there are some great attractions worth visiting just outside the city centre, and some fantastic day trips .

I’d recommend at least 3 days in Lisbon to help you cover the basics of what the city has to offer and potentially squeeze in a day trip if you can. There’s always more to see and do!

You can check out the perfect 2 day Lisbon itinerary here . 

It’s difficult to say how long to spend in Lisbon, but I’d add in at least one day extra than you’re planning to have so you can take day trips from the city, or keep those nearby places in mind as somewhere to go after you visit the city. 

Read More: 15 Awesome Day Trips from Lisbon

Where to stay in Lisbon

Lisbon has many great neighbourhoods to base yourself in during your stay.

The oldest quarter is the Alfama District, with picturesque hilly streets and tall buildings overlooking them on each side. It has become a popular area to stay in Lisbon, but try to stick to hotels and guest houses rather than Airbnb here as it has become a problem for the locals. 

Baixa and Chiado are the downtown and shopping areas, and Bairro Alto has a vibrant nightlife.

Lapa and Madragoa are slightly more upmarket and between the city and Belem, all of which are a little quieter than the rest.

Check out hotels in Lisbon

What to pack for Lisbon

Electronics.

• Mobile phone/Camera for photos – I use the Sony A6000 which is a compact mirrorless camera that’s easy to use and takes great photos you can transfer to your mobile right away. Also, take an extra SD Card , Lisbon is gorgeous!
• A plug adaptor – If you’re from outside the EU you’ll need one of these for your electronics. I love how this one has USD ports too!
• A power bank to keep your devices going while you’re out all day – I have several of these ones .

Outfits & Accessories

• Light clothing in summer
• Layers for the evening and a light coat in shoulder and off-season
• A sunhat and sunscreen in summer
• Comfortable walking shoes for the city or these travel sandals for women
• A warmer coat in winter, plus a scarf and hat

A few words of Portuguese

• Hello – Olá ( oh-LAH )
• Please – Por favor ( poor fah-VOHR )
• Thank you (if you are a male) – Obrigado ( oh-bree-GAH-doh )
• Thank you (if you are a female) – Obrigada ( oh-bree-GAH-dah )
• Yes – Sim ( SING )
• No – Não ( NOWNG )
• Goodbye – Adeus ( ah-DEH-oosh )
• Do you speak English? – Fala(s) inglês? ( FAH-lah(sh) een-GLEHSH? )
• I don’t understand – Não compreendo ( now kohn-pree-EHN-doh )

Planning your trip to Portugal? Check out these posts:

• Plan your itinerary with The Best of Lisbon in Two Days
• Read why you should consider visiting Lisbon in winter and what to do then
• Choose from one (or more!) of these awesome day trips from Lisbon
• Spend an amazing one day in Sintra
• Learn more about what it’s like to be an expat in Lisbon 
• Visit Porto and the Port Wine Cellars
• See more of the country with these 24 beautiful places in Portugal
• Plan a road trip along the Algarve in southern Portugal
• Visit the Algarve in winter too!

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First published in January 2017. 

Sonja - Migrating Miss

Sonja is from New Zealand but now lives in Scotland with her husband and two little boys, after having lived in 5 other countries along the way including the USA, Australia, Canada, and Spain. Travelling has always been her passion and she has now made it her full-time job and worked in the industry for the last 8 years. She shares her living abroad experiences and best tips to make your travel experiences the best they can be!

87 thoughts on “ 21 Things To Know Before You Visit Lisbon, Portugal ”

Loved Lisbon, I could go there again and again… 😀 Such charming city, don’t you think? And fado music, oh, I’ve enjoyed a fado show at the theater there, it was amazing. So glad you’ve discovered the city after all, I’m sure you’ve loved it! 🙂

It is definitely full of charm. I would love to see more Fado performances! The signing reminded me a bit of Flamenco in Spain.

I thought I knew quite a lot about Lisbon but had to change my mind after reading your article. For example, of course the trams are like Lisbon’s famous symbols, but I didn’t know about the tuk tuks here haha. I also didn’t know about the Conserveira de Lisboa. It sounds so interesting!

Haha there’s so much more to discover there! I feel like I only scratched the surface. I can see why so many people are moving there!

Oh my, what a great guide to Lisbon! I have been thinking about visiting for a while now, also because I want to fly to Madeira. Portugal is such a beautiful country! Love the trams and the cobblestone streets.

It really is a beautiful country! I had wanted to visit for awhile but it kept sort of sliding down the list, now I just can’t wait to go back!

Great guide!! I didn’t know that Portugal is so beautiful 🙂 I think i must go soon hehe

Thanks! I would highly recommend it of course!

This has just brought back so many good memories of my trip to Lisbon in 2013! I didn’t know it was the second oldest city in Europe though, that’s a cool fact! I think Sintra was one of my favourite things we did, and I also loved having drinks at the Bairro Alto! This is a very informative post, I probably coud have done with it before my trip! haha

I definitely need to go back so I can explore Sintra even more, and go out even more in the Bairro Alto haha. It’s definitely a city you can spend a bit of time in!

Great advice! I loved Lisbon when I was there this summer! I also like the cod cakes and custard tarts!

Thanks very much :). I’ve been craving some of those ever since I left!

Lisbon seems so popular and with all your amazing photos I can see why! I’m going next year for a wedding and can’t wait to hunt out some of the little bakeries you mention! The food sounds incredible that chorizo too!

It has definitely been all over my news feed for the past year or so! It will be so fun to go to a wedding there, what an awesome place to get married.

I’ve read a lot of beautiful things about Lisbon and would really love to see it in person. I’ll take note everything on this list. Love your photos they’re all stunning! 🙂

Thank you so much that’s lovely to hear :). I hope you get to travel there one day!

Very nice run down on Lisbon. I’ve been there myself and love the feel of the city. Also, the food is amazing!

Thanks! I really loved the food too!

Great tips! And such lovely photos. My friend is over in Amsterdam atm for school and she took a side trip to Portugal and she’s been talking about it ever since! Will definitely consider booking a trip here! 😀

I hope you do! It certainly made an impression on me too. Portugal exceeded my expectations!

Great article! I think this is the fullest and most complete ? Relevant, I am planning a trip to Lisbon. Thanks!

Thank you so much that’s really lovely to hear! Hope it helps and you have a great trip 😀

I spent a couple of days in Lisbon in the fall, but now I’m thinking I definitely need to return!

I feel like it’s that kind of place! I wouldn’t mind another visit soon myself 😀

Sonja this has gotten me SO excited for our trip to Lisbon later this year! Thanks for all the tips, I can’t wait to try out the cherry liqueur, cod and egg tarts.

Oh yay I’m really glad it’s helped you out! There’s so much delicious food to try, and I feel like I could have stayed even longer and still been making new discoveries. Hope you have an amazing trip!

I`m referring this to my friend who`s currently in Porto for a semester abroad with university. She was saying she wants to visit Lisbon since she got there! I like to take the tram a lot, but there are not many places left in the world where the tram is still used unfortunately. Very useful information, thanks Sonja!

Oh I LOVED Porto. I’ll have a couple of posts coming out about it soon! These trams were pretty amazing since they have been around for so long, I hope you get to go sometime!

I haven’t been yet, but your photos and story tell me I should book a flight for this summer. If only to eat way to many pasteis de nata 🙂

Definitely!!! I thought Portugal and Lisbon would be cool but it exceeded expectations!

We love when people visit our home country!! Share that portuguese love! Great article and tips! Everyone really should try custard tarts in their lifetime 😉 As for the tuk tuk… we can confirm! The tourists love them and the locals curse at them on their cars. In Lisbon, be prepared for hectic traffic. Look before you cross the road! If you come by Portugal again, let us know! ?

Aww I’m glad you liked the post! It’s a bit nerve racking sometimes when people from the country read it, in case I’ve got something totally wrong! I did just fix the sunshine “days” haha. I’m really hoping to come again soon 🙂

I love this pictures in here! The bakeries sound like an awesome reason to go all on their own. I love trying desserts and things in new countries, usually more than at home!

Thank you! The bakeries were SO good, and then I went to Porto and I loved them even more! But more of that coming on the blog haha. I love to try new desserts as well, they’re the best part of the meal 😀

Such a comprehensive post! Yeah I know right, suddenly everyone is heading to Lisbon! It looks like a beautiful city to go though. I haven’t got a chance to visit yet but if I do, I’ll be sure to refer to your post!

Thanks so much! It really is worth it, I hope you do get to go and the post helps! 😀

Thanks for the great post about Lisbon as me and my wife are going to be there in april we cannot wait to see Lisbon.its been on our list for a while.

That’s great! I hope you have an amazing time and find this useful 🙂

Sorry, but nowadays, the place to go out at night is Cais do Sodré, not Bairro Alto anymore. Try Pensao Amor. And codfish cakes with cheese are a gourmet modern thing, not traditional. Same goes for custard tarts with lemon or chocolate…. Oh, and go to Manteigaria, near Largo do Camoes, for the really good ones, Pasteis de Belem suck. In Belem, try the little beer tarts, across the street. From someone born and raised in Lisbon 🙂

Thanks Rosa! I still had a great time out in Bairro Alto, but I’ll have to check out Cais do Sodré next time! I actually preferred the cod fish cakes without cheese too. Delicious! I’ll definitely be back in your home town 🙂

Great article!! I’ve always wanted to move there!! Any tips on getting work there as a foreigner??

Thank you! I only know people who live there that are freelancers sorry, so they already had their own work! I’m not sure on what the job market is like, but I imagine there are English teaching opportunities. I think for anything else you would need to learn some Portuguese.

Me and my wife will be in Lisbon in 3 weeks time we are so looking forward to it.Thanks for all the info it was very helpful and informative.We have already planned to see much of what you have given us info on.Much appreciated.We both love to travel but Lisbon will be a new place for us and its looks so great cant wait.

Thanks so much for your comment. That’s exciting, I hope you have an amazing time! I really loved the city, if you can’t tell. Have an amazing trip!

It’s the 15 tram (which is no longer the old style cable car) that goes to Belem where you have a number of monuments on the water and the original makers of the Pasteis de Belem (THE original custard tarts). The 28 tram is very popular given it goes close to the castle and through older parts of Lisbon but it does not go that far West.

Thanks for the correction, I’m not sure why I put Belem there as we didn’t take the 28 there. Now fixed :). I can’t wait to go back to Lisbon, I’ll need to try the tarts at Belem!

Interesting tips, especially the ones on food. Will definitely try the custard tarts and the chorizo 🙂 Thanks for your sharing these tips!

Thanks! I thought the food in Portugal was amazing and I’m surprised we don’t hear more about it!

Great reading. Thank you. Am visiting this October and looking forward to it.

Thanks! Hope you have a great trip!

Certainly great deal of many lovely comments about Lisbon. My good friend and mye Myself hope to visit this nice area at Xmas time.

Hopefully you do! I was there at New Year and it was great!

Thank you for such a great blog, we will be visiting, only for a day next year on our way to Southampton. ????

You’re welcome! I hope you have a great time there! Although one day is short you should be able to cover quite a lot of ground 🙂

I am planning to visit Lisbon at the beginning of the next year. May stay for 1week. Thank you for your post with beautiful pictures that helps to make up my plan!

You’re welcome!! Hope you have an amazing time!

Great article! I am attending a travel conference in Ireland and find myself with a couple weeks on my own, so I was thinking of going to Lisbon. Thanks for all the great info.

Thanks very much! I’d highly recommend Lisbon, I really loved it there :). I’ll be in Ireland at TBEX too if that’s where you’re going!

So well put together, engaging and helpful! I’m omw there this Monday. I feel more excited and prepared now !

Thanks! I hope you have an amazing trip, I’d love to go back!

Beautifully yet concisely written, and gorgeous photos! Thanks so much for this great advice – I found it especially helpful likening it to Wellington, where I’m from! However, we’re now based in the Cayman Islands which is completely flat (highest point of the country is the top of the rubbish dump haha) so we might need to get on the StairMaster at the gym to practice for Lisbon! 🙂 You’re a great travel writer – I hope you keep it up for a long time! xx

Thanks so much Carolyn, what a lovely comment! I went to university in Wellington :D. Haha I would definitely recommend some stairs in preparation, although there’s always the trams and tuk-tuks to help you get around! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

A friend of mine recently visited Lisbon and simply loved it. Apparently, the food is nice and the people so friendly!

It’s a great place to visit, I’d highly recommend it!

Great tips! We are here now and we love it! The tram 28 looks overcrowded every time we see it but we will get to ride it soon I hope. Love your article. Thanks for the tips!

Thanks so much! Glad you’re having a great time!!!

I’ve been trying to pick a place to visit on way back to US from Thailand in October. Your writing helped be feel confident about choosing Lisbon. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and tips–great info.

Hope you love it as much as I do!

Unfortunately Lisbon is becoming way too touristy lately and it’s becoming chaotic and a sort of plastic city where you can only find tourists and expensive tourist shops in the city centre. It’s also creating a lot of tension with local residents. Expect chaos at the airport, which really doesn’t have the capacity for so many tourists, and long queues to visit museums and monuments. I really suggest you visit other places in Portugal, for instance, go shouth or north along the coast and you can still eat the codfish cakes and custard tarts for 1/4 of Lisbon prices while enjoying pitoresque villages close to the sea.

Lisbon is definitely struggling with the influx of tourists and it is something that I intend to write about soon. There are definitely plenty of other places in Portugal to go, I completely agree, but I also think there are things we can do when we visit Lisbon to try and support to local people (i.e. not stay in entire house Airbnbs that may have previously been available for locals but are now used for this) support local businesses and try to use public transport in off-peak hours to not disrupt locals lives so much.

Those are great tips, but I think that won’t be enough. Lisbon is just too chaotic these days. In any case, thanks for the compassion towards local residents.

Thank you for such a beautifully written, in-depth piece. It’s been one of the best ones I’ve read so far. Where would you recommend we stay (neighborhood-wise), if we were looking for an authentic Lisbon experience? Thanks!

Thanks!! It kind of depends what type of place you’re after but the historical districts are Alfam, Baixa, and Chiado. For something quieter but within easy distance by pubic transport of attractions look at Lapa and Madragoa. Have a look at the sits you want to visit and think about how you want to get around (there are lots of hills!) and see what suits from there :).

Awesome guide of Lisbon. My friends and I have planned a trip to Portugal the next month and your this post is very helpful as we can explore all the attractions there. I found it very interesting as we are a foodie and there are a variety of food items that we can taste and have fun. Keep sharing such wonderful places.

hey would you believe, you can buy pastela de nata in LIDL in the uk. well here in wales you can actually bought a little place in portugal this year, about an hour east of Lisbon. looking forward to moving there..yayy

Whaaaat! I’ll have to keep an eye out! I have seen them in tescos actually but they’re not exactly the real thing haha. Exciting about the move!!!

Hi, thank you for your tips! I have been in Lisbon with my girlfriends 2 years ago and it was amazing! Unfortunately we spent only one night there before we had to go to Porto which also truly amazed us. We did a wine tour there with a guide who relly knew everything about it.We loved porto wine. Check them we were really satisfied, just a little tip. Hope it’ll be helpful. Enjoy your trip all fellow travelers and don’t forget to eat many pastells de nata:)

Thank you so much for your inspirational and informative post!

Happy Monday, Anna

You’re welcome!

Great blog thank you for sharing.

super helpful, planning a trip to lisbon and this has helped!

Realy nice article, now i just waiting for Porto review ;D

Lisbon has been on my mind. Some day soon, hopefully.

Haha here in the Czech Republic beer is only 0,90€ 😀 come visit!

I love it there!

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Home » Travel Guides » Portugal » 25 Best Things to Do in Lisbon (Portugal)

25 Best Things to Do in Lisbon (Portugal)

Touted as a modern metropolis to rival London and packed with places of interest, Lisbon is a city that is really going places. There is a plethora of history here, with tales of everything from Roman imperialists to exotic Berber pirates, Moorish builders to fierce Reconquista knights, all wrapped up in the grand palaces and heritage districts. But there is also an atmosphere of bohemianism and the surprise of the new here too.

You won’t have to look far for nightlife as you can just dive into the medley of Fado joints and swish coffee shops in the Bairro Alto district. Then, perhaps, you can take in the latest in digital installation art at the Berardo Collection Museum, or go nose to nose with a grimacing shark at the Lisbon Aquarium.

Meanwhile, the mysticism of much-vaunted Sintra hides in the nearby hills, while endless stretches of pristine beachfront abound in the peninsulas around the Tagus Estuary and the Atlantic Coast.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Lisbon :

1. Wonder at the Torre de Belém

If there is just one landmark you visit when touring through the Portuguese capital, make it this one.

Soaring high above the seafront of the Lisbon quays, this great tower displays a veritable fusion of architectural styles from the Mudejar to the Moorish, the Gothic to the Romanesque.

It has stood watch over the mouth of the Tagus River since its construction under the patronage of Saint John back in the 16th century.

Since then, it has risen to become perhaps the most iconic feature of the city, famed as the last sight adventurers like the prodigal Vasco da Gama would have seen as they drifted out into the vast Atlantic Ocean.

2. Ride Tram 28

Like San Francisco in the United States, Lisbon is a city famed for its historic, rattling tram lines.

None are more iconic than Tram 28 which has been working its way up the steep, cobbled roads and into the old Alfama district for decades.

The journey starts below the palm-spotted hills of Graça, and weaves toward the hair-pin alleys of Escolas Gerais, before pulling up to a halt beneath the gorgeous domes of the Estrela Basilica.

The people-watching opportunities from the windows are second-to-none, and you’re bound to discover decades of history as you pass the various majestic palaces and castles along the route.

Recommended tour : 2-Hour Historic Tram 28 Tour by Eco Tuk-Tuk

3. Get lost in the Alfama District

The compact little Alfama District is Lisbon’s answer to the old town centers of Europe’s other ancient capitals.

Like the Forum of Rome, it’s hailed as the oldest part of the city, although this one dates back to the Moors of Africa instead of the kings of Latium.

Delving into the warren of winding streets and alleys that forms the district is one of the top activities for visitors to Portugal’s capital.

As you stroll, great cathedrals like the Lisbon Cathedral and tile-fronted chapels reveal themselves on the corners.

There are also the remains of old city walls and hidden squares with al fresco cafes aplenty.

Available tour : Alfama District 2.5-Hour Walking Tour

4. Make a trip to Sintra

‘Did you go to Sintra?’ is the usual question asked by veterans of Portugal’s capital.

Despite being a totally different city and situated more than half an hour away from Lisbon by car, the glorious town of Sintra remains one of the major attractions here.

Daytrips are common, while others will want to spend a couple of days exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It sits high up amidst the mythical Mountains of the Moon, displaying elegant baroque churches, colorful mansions and the grand palaces of former Portuguese kings and queens.

Suggested tour : Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril: Full-Day Tour from Lisbon

5. Enjoy the azulejos in the National Tile Museum

Ask any ceramic aficionado and they will tell you that Portugal is the place to go for tiles.

Cue Lisbon’s great National Tile Museum, which is dedicated to everything fired in a kiln.

The institution traces the important history of tile making and its associated technologies from the days when the Moors first brought it to Iberia.

Of course, the best part of all the exhibitions is the blue-hued azulejos.

These famous ceramic works of art gave the country its reputation for craftsmanship in ceramics.

You’ll get to see all types, sizes and designs, and learn about the development of the enchanting motifs that adorn their cobalt surfaces.

Included in the Lisbon Card

6. Conquer the bulwarks of St George’s Castle

St George’s Castle is unquestionably the most visible landmark of Lisbon’s historic center.

Standing tall and firm above the streets of the old Alfama District, the great citadel was first built more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans.

Since then, it has been developed by subsequent rulers of the city, from the Berbers to the Reconquista knights.

Today it has mighty palisades and crenulated towers to admire, along with an encircling dry moat and other anti-siege features.

Pass beneath the large gate here and notice the Portuguese royal seal, marking the country’s monarchic strength.

Fast entry : Sao Jorge Castle Skip-the-Line Ticket with Escort

7. Trace glorious history in the Monastery of Jerónimos

Just a glance at the ornate spires and grand carvings of the great Monastery of Jerónimos should be enough to deduce the raison d’être for this massive landmark which is nestled close to the banks of the Tagus River.

It was built to mark Portugal’s most glorious age which was called ‘The Age of Exploration’. The fusion of architectural designs, known as the Manueline style, stands as testimony to the cultures encountered by Lisbon’s explorers, while the money used to build the structure came from Portugal’s international trade in cloves, cumin and exotic spices.

It is also another of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Book online : Jerónimos Monastery Entrance Ticket

8. Go underwater in the Lisbon Oceanarium

Located out in the blue waters of the Tagus Estuary, the huge Lisbon Oceanarium rises like a hulking aircraft carrier.

Inside, the structure houses countless exhibits related to marine life, which together pull in over one million visitors each year.

You can get up close to colorful puffer fish as well as watch the marauding sharks.

You’ll see curious moray eels and meet cuddly penguins.

There are also interesting collections of sea anemones and corals, not to mention an artificial boating lagoon out front where you can rent a pedalo if it is sunny.

Ticket available online : Oceanário de Lisboa Entrance Ticket

9. Wonder at the master works of the National Museum of Ancient Art

The National Museum of Ancient Art is the home of Portugal’s prestigious national art collection.

Pieces here range from pious saintly depictions by Nuno Gonçalves to chiaroscuro portraiture by Josefa de Óbidos.

Most of the canvasses date from between the 16th and 19th centuries, and came into public ownership following the Liberal Wars that rocked the country in the early modern age.

Patrons here can also enjoy countless traveling exhibitions, with past collections reflecting Lisbon in the Renaissance period as well as featuring historical paintings from the Age of Discovery.

10. Get a taste of the East in Museu do Oriente

You only need to set foot in places like Sri Lanka and Goa to realize how far the reach of Portugal’s great Renaissance Empire stretched.

These far-flung eastern corners of the realm are the subject of Lisbon’s Museu do Oriente and the space itself is huge.

It is housed in a colossal former fish processing factory, which now enjoys up-to-date exhibition rooms.

The focus here is on all things Asian, with stories of Chinese rituals and seafaring across the South China Sea all part of the tour.

11. Hop aboard the Funiculars

Like Rome, Lisbon was built on seven hills.

Unlike Rome, the city planners here developed a series of funicular railways to help with transport to and from the neighborhoods above the city.

It’s a real joy to ride on some of the tracks such as the old Ascensor do Lavra which dates all the way back to the late 1800s and has been honored with a national heritage tag.

There is also the Ascensor da Bica, which winds up the tight-knit cobbled lanes off Largo do Calhariz.

Let’s also not forget the soaring Santa Justa Elevator which lifts people from Baixa to Carmo and offers sweeping views of the Lisbon downtown area along the way.

12. Enjoy the Mercado da Ribeira

There are two distinct sides to Lisbon’s most famous food market.

First of all there is the downstairs part, which throbs with local fruit and vegetable sellers touting succulent legumes and Mediterranean fruits every morning of the week, so make sure to get there early if you want to get the best deals.

Then there is the upstairs section which comes packed with more modern, often quirky food stalls and cutting-edge eateries.

It is there that you will be able to taste the local specialty of custard tarts, sip fine Portuguese wines, and even attempt to conquer a massive francesinha sandwich which is one of the treats to come out of Porto in the north.

Available tour : Local Market, Food, and Culture Walking Tour

13. People watch on the Rossio

The plane tree peppered Rossio Square is where Lisbon’s local life ticks over each day.

Officially titled Pedro IV Square, the spot marks the very heart of the Pombaline Lower Town, which spreads out in wide boulevards between the Tagus and Baixa rivers.

The site of the plaza itself has been famous since the medieval age, when public beheadings and bullfighting showdowns were held on its cobbles.

Today, it’s a fine place to stroll and people watch.

You can relax on the shady benches, watch the locals play dominos in the park, and enjoy elaborate Baroque fountains babbling under the sun.

Related tour : Best of Lisbon Walking Tour: Rossio, Chiado & Alfama

14. Enjoy the modern Berardo Collection Museum

Bringing up the more modern side of Lisbon’s already formidable array of world class museums and exhibition spaces is the acclaimed Berardo Collection Museum.

This massive institution now pulls in excess of 2.5 million visitors each year.

They come to wonder at the smorgasbord of eclectic artworks, which range from abstract expressionism to digital art installations or neo-realism and photography.

Curators are dedicated to maintaining the cutting-edge aspect of the collections, which means there are also regular touring collections so you can expect the likes of French avant-garde pieces and European cubism to be on display.

15. Eat and drink in the Bairro Alto

Apart from being the premier touristic district of Lisbon, packed with al fresco cafes and international restaurants, the Bairro Alto is also the city’s top nightlife spot.

You’ll typically have to wait until early evening for the establishments to really get started, but when they do, it’s all about the authentic pastelaria bakeries and the bohemian drinking joints.

There’s a smattering of old Fado music holes if you fancy a night full of artistic passion, all interspersed with cool new breweries and beatnik style bars.

16. Ride the waves at Caxias

Grab a board, wax it down, and don some board shorts or preferably a wetsuit, because the waters where the Tagus Estuary meets the Atlantic Ocean can get pretty chilly.

Nestled just to the west of Lisbon central, this pretty enclave of sand and sea is where most of the capital’s wave riders will retreat at the weekend.

It’s got some challenging left-to-right breaks, and there are plenty of tour outfitters offering surf lessons on the swells which are perfect if you’re a total beginner looking to escape the city for its beaches.

17. Find your inner explorer at the Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Now something of a historical monument in its own right, the Padrão dos Descobrimentos marks the shore of the Tagus Estuary with its grand architecture and beige stone.

It’s been here since the early 1960s and is an ornate testimony to the successes of Portuguese exploration during the Age of Discovery.

You can reach the towering landmark by strolling along the waterside of Santa Maria de Belém.

Once you spot it, be sure to pick out the legendary figures of Vasco da Gama (an explorer of India and Arabia) and Prince Henry the Navigator (an adventurer of the Great Sand Sea).

18. Unravel the city’s past at Lisboa Story Centre

Once you’re done wandering the wonderful districts of the Bairro Alto and old Alfama, it’s time to get some background on the sights.

For that, there is arguably nowhere better in town than the Lisboa Story Centre.

The institution, which boasts free entry to all holders of a Lisbon city card, unravels the past of Portugal’s capital from its earliest years until the present.

There are special sections dedicated to the Age of Exploration and the great seafarers who departed from the city.

Not to be missed is also a particularly illuminating piece on the ravaging earthquake of 1755.

19. Regal gardens at the Palace of the Marquises of Fronteira

Dating all the way back to 1681 and standing at the outer reaches of Lisbon, on its far north-western edge, the grand Palace of the Marquises of Fronteira is one of the more off-the-beaten-track remnants of the city’s former glory.

Despite its remote location it is still easy to get to and offers a glimpse of the majestic architecture that came to the fore in the 1600s and 1700s in Portugal.

The home was once that of the Marquis of Fronteira, who received his land and wealth after staying loyal to the Portuguese royal name during the Restoration War of the mid-17th century.

20. Wallow in the natural beauty of Tróia

You’ll have to hop, skip and jump over both the Tagus River Estuary and the Sado River Estuary to reach the sparkling beaches of the Tróia Peninsula.

But the approximately two-hour journey is definitely worth it.

Running for mile upon mile down the Atlantic Coast, the region has some of the top beachfronts in the entire Lower Alentejo.

The sands glow a soft yellow under the sun and the seas are surprisingly calm for this western section of the country.

The beautiful Parque Natural da Arrábida can be seen on the headlands opposite, while regular tours depart from Tróia to spot bottlenose dolphins out at sea.

21. Go beach hopping on the Costa da Caparica

Talking of beaches, it’s just a short drive across the Ponte de Abril on the Tagus River to reach the acclaimed and popular summer resort of Costa da Caparica.

This sits on the northern fringes of the Sétubal district, and offers unrivaled access to some of the best sandy spots close to the capital.

Here you are bound to discover empty stretches of acacia-backed dunes and swaying sea grasses, all washed over by some challenging surf.

Closest to the town are the more visited beaches, while a narrow-gauge railway takes travelers to the secluded coves and sunbathing spots further along the coast.

22. Enjoy the seafood and sun in Cascais

If you are in need of a dose of idyllic scenery after the hustle and bustle of downtown Lisbon, then there is arguably nowhere better to go than picture-perfect Cascais.

This old fishing hamlet on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean sits to the west of the city, and has been transformed over the years by an influx of upscale Lisboans looking for sun, sea and sand.

There are no fewer than three cliff-backed golden bays along with a peppering of some of the best seafood restaurants in the region.

For wave riding, consider making a beeline for swell-packed Guincho along the headland.

Available tour : Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais Full-Day Tour

23. Haggle at the Feira da Ladra

Polish your haggling skills for a trip to Feira da Ladra, because this sprawling midweek and weekend market is the place to go for quirky, curious and often downright weird trinkets and antiques.

Believe it or not, the history of the buzzing bazaar goes all the way back to the 12th century, when you can almost imagine a similar array of gypsy traders and motley talisman dealers assembling on the sidewalks of Campo de Santa Clara.

You will need to arrive early if you want to be in with a chance of grabbing anything worthwhile, and you can even travel to the market on historic Tram 28.

24. Marvel at the Aqueduto das Águas Livres

Another of the great visual landmarks of Lisbon is the Aqueduto das Águas Livres.

This eye-popping stretch of stone arches and Italianesque architecture was first created in the middle of the 18th century.

It was conceived to relieve Lisbon’s perpetual summertime water shortages, and was built to fit in seamlessly with the Gothic revivalism of the city proper.

Be sure to check out the section of aqueduct which rolls directly over the rooftops of the Amoreiras district, and then make a beeline for the Water Museum, which chronicles the development of this masterpiece.

25. Discover the Basílica da Estrela

You will almost certainly have glimpsed the gorgeous domes and spires of the Basílica da Estrela as you alighted from the rattling carriages of Tram 28. It’s worth lingering below the whitewashed facades of this iconic church and convent for some time as many visitors consider it to be one of the most beautiful in Lisbon.

Late Baroque design dominates the exterior, with a duo of carved spires piercing the skies overhead.

The interior, meanwhile, reveals a kaleidoscope of colored stone inlays and even the tomb of Queen Mary I of Portugal.

25 Best Things to Do in Lisbon (Portugal):

• Wonder at the Torre de Belém
• Ride Tram 28
• Get lost in the Alfama District
• Make a trip to Sintra
• Enjoy the azulejos in the National Tile Museum
• Conquer the bulwarks of St George's Castle
• Trace glorious history in the Monastery of Jerónimos
• Go underwater in the Lisbon Oceanarium
• Wonder at the master works of the National Museum of Ancient Art
• Get a taste of the East in Museu do Oriente
• Hop aboard the Funiculars
• Enjoy the Mercado da Ribeira
• People watch on the Rossio
• Enjoy the modern Berardo Collection Museum
• Eat and drink in the Bairro Alto
• Ride the waves at Caxias
• Find your inner explorer at the Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• Unravel the city's past at Lisboa Story Centre
• Regal gardens at the Palace of the Marquises of Fronteira
• Wallow in the natural beauty of Tróia
• Go beach hopping on the Costa da Caparica
• Enjoy the seafood and sun in Cascais
• Haggle at the Feira da Ladra
• Marvel at the Aqueduto das Águas Livres
• Discover the Basílica da Estrela

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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

Planning a trip to Lisbon? Pin this post for later!

About the Author

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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Why Visit Lisbon? 7 Reasons to Visit The Portuguese Capital

ARE YOU ASKING: WHY VISIT LISBON?

In 2017 CNN named Lisbon one of the coolest European cities , and today that still rings true. This Portuguese capital perfectly balances old and new, filled with historical treasures and modern charms. It is a city known for its food, nightlife, colorful buildings, fado music, and friendly locals.

Don’t want to explore Lisbon by yourself? Take a private or group tour of this beautiful city.

We recommend this 5⭐️ Half Day Sightseeing Tour on a Private Electric Tuk Tuk or this budget-friendly Lisbon: History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour .

Lisbon is also one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, with a history of 2,700 years. Due to its excellent trading location, the Phoenicians settled in Lisbon around 1200 BC. The city is the second oldest in Europe, after Athens, and is said to be four centuries older than Rome. Can you believe that?

Today it is a city teeming with life. A city is full of color, character, and creativity.

So why should you visit Lisbon? Well, here are just a couple of reasons to visit Lisbon or at least add it to your travel bucket list.

Why Visit Lisbon? The Pros:

Located in Western Portugal, Lisbon lies at the mouth of the Tejo River . It is a hilly coastal capital city that enjoys an average of more than 300 sunny days a year. Lisbon is, among other things , known for its unique historical center, stunning architecture, colorful azulejos (ceramic tiles), and fantastic food.

It also has a fascinating history, filled with rulers, invasions, destructions, and re-constructions . History aside, Lisbon is a fantastic place to visit. So why visit Lisbon? Here are a couple of reasons why we think you should visit Lisbon, Portugal.

1. The Weather Is Great

Why visit Lisbon? Well, as mentioned previously, Lisbon is a sunny city. It is, in fact, the sunniest capital city in mainland Europe. It also has a great climate year-round.

In the summer, Lisbon experiences bright, sunny, and hot summers. July is the sunniest month, with an average of 352 hours of sunshine. The average temperatures during these months range between 25-27°C but can go as high as 30°C. Summers are hot in Lisbon . That is why most people beat the heat by visiting the many beach towns around Lisbon, including Cascais , Ericeira , and Costa da Caparica.

The great thing about Lisbon is that it is equally pleasant to visit during the shoulder seasons. During spring (March to May) and fall (September to October), the temperature is still quite warm, while the crowds are not as bad. During these seasons, expect temperatures to be around 18°C to 22°C.

Nevertheless, if you come during the shoulder seasons, pack some warmer clothes as the temperature drops during the evening and nighttime.

⭐️ Insider tip: One of the best times to visit Lisbon is at the end of September. The weather is still pleasant, but most of the crowds have dissipated , and the prices have stabilized . And the party isn’t over yet, as plenty of events are still going on. For example, most of the beach bars in Costa don’t close until October . Finally, water around Lisbon is the warmest in September, clocking in at a comfortable 20°C —perfect for an ocean dip.

Finally, winter in Lisbon can be quite mild, with an average daytime temperature of 15°C. The nights are, however, colder, especially in December and January. Though the days are chillier, Lisbon is still a great place to visit during the wintertime. However, expect rainfall. If you come during the winter, make sure to rent an apartment with a good heating system—more about this later.

All in all, why visit Lisbon? The city is known for its sunshine and beautiful warm weather. Overall is a great city to visit year-round.

2. Delicious Cuisine

Lisbon is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities , which also means it is home to many restaurants. Whatever craving you might have, there is probably a restaurant serving that type of food.

Are you a foodie 🫒? Read our articles: 15 Food Tours In Lisbon: A Guide To The Best Eats In The City and Discovering The Best Food In Portugal: A Taste Tour Of The Country’s Top 27 Dishes .

But, let’s focus on Portuguese food. What food is Lisbon known for ? Well, Portugal, in general, is known for its seafood, which includes a Portuguese favorite, bacalhau , also known as salted cod.

Seafood is a must in Lisbon, and if you are Googling restaurants, you’ve probably already heard of Cevejario Ramiro , which was featured on an episode of Somebody Feed Phil . Although we might not recommend this particular restaurant, there are a lot of traditional Portuguese restaurants that you can try.

Here are some dishes that you should consider ordering:

• Bacalhau à Brás : shredded cod, fried potatoes, eggs, onions, black olives, olive oil, and a little parsley.
• Pasteis de Bacalhau : cod fritters
• Bacalhau à Lagareiro : cod with cream
• Polvo à Lagareiro : octopus with olive oil and potatoes
• Porco preto: Iberian black pork 
• Caldo Verde : a popular soup that includes finely shredded collard greens, potatoes, olive oil, black pepper, and salt, mainly flavored with onion and garlic
• Bifana: a traditional Portuguese sandwich that comprises a bread roll filled with marinated pork cutlets

Then there is the famous pastéis de nata . Make sure you try one (or five). Also, try the Pastel de Belém, which, if you didn’t know, is the original pastel de nata. In 1837, these little cakes were sold by a monastery and quickly became known under the name “Pastéis de Belém.” Unfortunately, the recipe was never shared publicly, and to this day, only a few people know it. Those who have learned the recipe have to sign a non-disclosure agreement. As a result, no one has ever been able to truly replicate the original Pastéis de Belém. Thus they created the next best thing, pastéis de nata .

Finally, don’t forget about the wine. Some of the best wine in the world is found in Portugal . And we’ve also put together a list of seven wine shops you can check out on your trip to Lisbon.

3. Great place for nightlife

Considered to be among the best in Europe,  Lisbon is well known for its nightlife . Lisbon nightlife is fast making a name for itself as one of Europe’s most exciting, innovative scenes. So, whether you’re looking to sip cocktails while listening to live music or want to dance the night away, there’s something for everyone.

Before we start, let’s go through some basic tips. Like many Southern European neighbors , dinner is always a late affair in Lisbon. Late dinners mean later parties . If you plan to go to the bars, make sure to head out after 11 pm. Bars in Lisbon  tend to be free entry and open until 3 or 4 a.m. Nightclubs, however, will charge an entry fee and close around 6 a.m.

⭐️ Insider’s tip: Lisbon is a hilly city, so make sure to leave the heels and flip-flops at home—you’ll thank us later!

If you are looking to party, then there are four key areas that you can head on over to:

• Pink Street . Transformed from Lisbon’s red light district to a party hotspot, Cais do Sodre is home to the Rua Nova do Carvalho, also known as “ Pink street .” Why pink street? Well, because it is quite literally painted pink. This trendy street is filled with a myriad of bars and clubs, including Pensão Amor , a former brothel, and Music Box , a trendy club.
• Bairro Alto . Bairro Alto is the  most iconic neighborhood to go out for a party night . The neighborhood is one of the biggest party spots in Lisbon, with more than 100 bars and restaurants.
• Principe Real. Next door to Bairro Alto is Principe Real, the perfect place for a more upscale or classier night out on the town. The neighborhood has live music spots, cocktail bars, and even the unique Pavilhão Chinês bar.
• Alfama . If you looking for a relaxing night in Lisbon, then make sure to head on over to the historic neighborhood of Alfama . Our recommendation? Check out Antiga Wine Bar for a great selection of food and drinks.

Whatever neighborhood you choose, we are sure you will enjoy Lisbon’s nightlife.

4. An Eclectic Mix of Old & New

So what is Lisbon famous for? The city is known for its monuments, landmarks, architecture, and museums. But it also has a lot of modern-day charm.

Coming to Lisbon 🏨 🇵🇹? Read our article: The 23 Best Boutique Hotels In Lisbon .

Lisbon is home to the oldest bookstore in the world, the Livraria Bertrand , which opened in 1782 . Then there is the Mosteiro dos Jerònimos built in the early 1500s. The monastery, located in the Belem district, is one of the most decorated churches in Portugal. It is also designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then there are the churches, the Sé de Lisboa , built in 1147, and the Convento do Carmo , built between 1389 – 1423.

But along with the old, there is the new, hip, and trendy. Our favorite example is the LXFactory , which transformed a manufacturing complex that housed a fabric company back in the 1800s into a hip, trendy spot filled with restaurants, shops, cafes, and galleries.

Lisbon is about neighborhoods —each with its distinct vibe, ready to be explored. It is a city filled with old and new magic and is the perfect place to wander around and get lost in.

5. The Views Are Unforgettable

Lisbon is known as the city of the seven hills. Yes, walking up all those hills can be a pain, but the views can be magnificent once you get to the top. Also, this is an excellent option for people looking to answer the question: “what to do in Lisbon for free.”

Lisbon is home to many different viewpoints or miradouros , each with a different view of the city below. Some even offer views of the April 25th bridge and parts of Margem Sul. Here are a couple of our favorite miradouros:

• Miradouro da Graça : great views and lively atmosphere.
• Miradouro das Portas do Sol : beautiful views of the Tagus River and the Alfama neighborhood. On the weekends, there is a DJ that plays by the statue of São Vicente de Fora.
• Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte : the highest point in Lisbon & not as touristy as the others

6. Very Well Connected

Why visit Lisbon? Well, it is a city smack-dab in the middle of Portugal , meaning it is the perfect jumping-off point to e xplore what Portugal has to offe r. Many people head directly to Porto, but there are so many different places to visit other than Lisbon and Porto.

If you have a limited amount of time, several day-trip options are available around the city. Our recommendations?

• The magical city of Sintra is home to palaces, forests, villas, and ruins.
• The traditional Portuguese fishing village of Ericeira is also a popular surfing spot near Lisbon.
• The towns of Margem Sul, including Costa da Caparica for surfing, Sesimbra for relaxing (or scuba diving), Azeitao for wine & food, or Setubal for food, wine, and beaches.
• The medieval town of Óbidos , where you can also try the famous ginja.
• The stunning Berlengas Islands and the surfing town of Peniche.

If you have more time to explore, Lisbon is a great spot to start your Portuguese adventure. Travelers can go south towards the Algarve, stopping off in the Alentejo region , known for its wine, rolling hills, historic fortified towns, and beautiful coastline. Or travelers can go north to explore the Silver Coast from Lisbon to Porto (and beyond). There are plenty of tours from Lisbon to Porto if you are limited on time but still want to visit this magical northern city.

Another option is to go inwards and explore the various cities in Central Portugal, from the Templar city of Tomar to Coimbra , up to Guimarães , the birthplace of Portugal.

The options are endless, so where do you want to go?

7. It is Quite Safe

Being a politically stable, progressive, and liberal city, Lisbon is amongst the safest capital cities of Europe. This doesn’t mean it has a zero crime rate—you always have to be aware of petty crimes like pick-pocketing and drug trafficking.

Remember to avoid excessive drinking, stay away from drug pushers, and always be aware of your surroundings. Also, please do not be rude or insensitive to locals. If you do visit Lisbon, please be a responsible traveler.

Finally, is Lisbon safe for LGBTQ+ travelers ? Well, Lisbon is amongst the most gay-friendly travel destinations in the world. It is also emerging as one of Europe’s top destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers, with many LGBT-friendly bars and clubs opening their doors in recent years. Some bars we recommend include Trumps , Shelter Bar , and Posh Lisbon .

Why Visit Lisbon? The Cons

The above-stated reasons to visit Lisbon do not mean the city is without any faults. Below are the things you should know before visiting Lisbon and can answer the question: why visit Lisbon?

1. The Hills & Streets

Lisbon is perched on seven hills. And although the views are magnificent from above, it can be quite exhausting walking up all those hills—especially during the hot and humid summer months.

If you are a person that loves to hike or walk uphill, then Lisbon is the city for you—but for most of us, it can be a challenge.

Lisbon is a walkable city. However, it also has a great transportation system if you aren’t keen on walking. Hundreds of eager tuk-tuk drivers can easily zip you and your family up any of the steep hills. Last but certainly not least, UBER works well in Lisbon and can be cheap.

Remember, Lisbon’s steep, narrow, cobblestoned streets are not for the faint of heart . They are also not made for high heels or flip-flops. If you plan on coming to Lisbon, switch out those heels or flip-flops for more sensible walking shoes —your feet will thank you. Finally, if you are traveling with kids, consider leaving the stroller at home or come with other options.

2. Lisbon Has Become Overcrowed

For many tourists, Portugal has become a bucket list destination . In 2019, 27 million  tourists visited this relatively small country. The majority went straight to the cities, including Lisbon.

Trish Lorenz , a journalist and resident of Lisbon, states, “ In both Lisbon and Porto, the central downtown areas have become more or less only for tourists. Lisbon’s Baixa district, for example, which covers an area of 1.5 square kilometers, now has more than 70 hotels, while tourist-oriented restaurants, souvenir shops, and big international brands have displaced local businesses .”

What does this all mean? Queues, crowds, tourist prices, and ultimately a lack of authenticity.

In the summertime, streets in the central area are flooded with tourists, almost elbow-to-elbow, making the experience in the city much less magical . In a sea of tourists, we recommend going off the beaten path a little. And when Lisbon gets a little too much for you, opt to explore lesser-known cities and areas instead of going to the obvious places, like Sintra and Cascais .

There is so much more to Portugal than Lisbon and Porto . And if you want to beat the crowds, maybe come during the shoulder season.

3. Lisbon CAN Be Expensive

One of the reasons you might question why visit Lisbon is the price. Unlike many European capitals like Paris and London, Lisbon can be less expensive. However, prices have increased drastically due to overtourism and an influx of digital nomads and ex-pats who have recently to the city.

The assumption usually is that Lisbon is a “cheap” place to travel to, but that isn’t necessarily true.

Nowadays, prices for hotels, restaurants, and activities can rival other top European destinations. Like any city subject to overtourism, tourist traps have also multiplied. These establishments have brought with them higher prices. For example, a cocktail at a bar with a view can cost around €10-15. Dinner at an upscale restaurant can run you over €200 or more.

However, the trick is to avoid tourist areas and instead look for local bars, restaurants, and activities. The price will be drastically different, and the experience will likely be more authentic.

So, is Lisbon cheap? No, but it doesn’t have to be expensive.

4. Parking Is A Nightmare

If you travel to Lisbon by car, beware of the parking situation. No matter what neighborhood you stay in, parking can be a nightmare.

Lisbon’s narrow, winding streets are not meant to make parking your car easy. Be extra cautious about where you park and whether you need to pay for parking . Some hotels offer parking at an additional cost, but this cost can be upwards of 15-18 euros per day —which is a little insane.

Also, there are s pecific streets where only residents can park . If you leave your car overnight on these streets, you may not only get a ticket but a boot on your car. And getting that boot off your car can be an incredibly frustrating and expensive experience.

The takeaway is to read all the signage on the street before parking your car. And if in doubt, ask a local .

5. Lack of Central Heating

Central heating is  not  common at all in Lisbon. Houses and apartments in many of the tourist areas are older buildings that have been renovated but are often still poorly insulated. These buildings  almost never have central heating of any kind , although some may have an air conditioning unit with a heat function.

This is not a problem during the summer months, but if you plan on renting an Airbnb apartment in the wintertime, then make sure to double-check what type of heating system is installed in the unit. However, this is not a problem in most hotels.

Now that you have read our pros and cons, have you decided : why visit Lisbon?

Final Verdict: Why Visit Lisbon 

So why visit Lisbon? Lisbon is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, filled with stunning architecture, gorgeous museums, delicious cuisine, and unique attractions.

However, if you plan on coming to the city, we recommend sticking around for 2-3 days and then moving on to another part of Portugal. Lisbon is a relatively small city, and you can see everything that you need to see during this period of time.

If it is your first-time visiting Lisbon and you want to see as many spots as possible, then purchase the Lisbon Card. The card gives you free access to the public transportation system for 24, 48, or 72 hours . It also gives you free access to many top attractions in the city and is even valid on trains going to Sintra and Cascais.

So have we answered the question: why visit Lisbon? Are you convinced yet?

Lisbon is worth visiting with its perfect weather, incredible architecture, ancient history, and modern hipster vibes. Once you come here, you will fall in love with its magic. We hope this article helps you with your answers on why visit Lisbon! So is Lisbon worth visiting? What do you think?

Also, if you are planning a trip to this city, this Ultimate Guide to Lisbon will help you.

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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It is a wonderful destination. It has very beautiful areas to discover. I recommend it to everyone.

I went to Lisbon when I was very young but didn’t take much notice, consequently, I don’t remember much of it. Now in my seventies, I would dearly love to visit and explore it. I’ve got a feeling that it’s my type of city. It must be a beautiful place. I missed-out last year when my childhood friends and respective wifes arranged to come from the UK to this “neck of the woods”… ish (I live in Gibraltar) – and I met them and stayed in Albufeira – Although I had suggested Lisbon they were against the idea of said city because of it’s many hills – They are not great walkers of hills. Anyway, my wife and I will go to see Lisbon some day in the not too distant future.

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The 11 best places to visit in Portugal

Nov 17, 2023 • 7 min read

From the viewpoints of Lisbon to the beaches of the Algarve, here are the best places to go in Portugal © Gabriel Mello / Getty Images

Lisbon and Porto may get a lot of love, but there's so much more to Portugal than its captivating historic cities.

From  golden beaches  and mountainous peaks to lush river valleys, every region has its own diverse highlights across this small Iberian nation.

Finding the best places to go here depends largely on your own interests. If you’re after sun-kissed beaches and aquatic adventures, head to the Algarve ; for historic architecture-filled towns with a rich, traditional dining scene , aim for Évora. Start planning your itinerary now with our 11 favorite places to visit in Portugal.

Best for nightlife

Seven iconic hills overlook  Lisbon 's postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, white-domed cathedrals and grand civic squares – a captivating scene crafted over centuries.

The Portuguese capital is packed with things to do , from browsing galleries (including the Museu Nacional do Azulejo with its trove of ceramic tiles) and exploring castles (such as the hilltop  Castelo de São Jorge ) to satisfying your sweet tooth with the city's incredible  pastéis de nata  (custard tarts).

By night, Lisbon’s party people take over, filling old-school drinking dens, brassy jazz clubs and open-all-night clubs that burst into life once the sun goes down.

Planning tip: Lisbon has an emerging craft beer scene that you can experience at the city's breweries and bars .

Read more: Where locals go on vacation in Portugal

2. douro valley .

Best place to drink wine 

One of Portugal’s most beautiful areas lies just east of Porto. Here, the meandering Rio Douro flows past towering hillsides covered by the steeply terraced vineyards that make up Europe’s oldest demarcated wine region. Whether you come by boat, train or car to the Douro Valley , you’ll be rewarded with astonishing views at every turn, especially as you near the lovely village of Pinhão in the heart of the region. 

Planning tip:  Many travelers dash in on a quick day trip, but to make the most of the region, spend the night at one of the vineyard-surrounded guesthouses in the area, such as Quinta Nova or the Casa Cimeira .

Best hilltop village

Wandering the tangle of ancient streets in the historic town of  Óbidos is enchanting at any time of year, but come during one of its festivals and you're in for a special treat. Whether you fancy the idea of a mock-up jousting match at a medieval fair or delving into the written word at Folio – Portugal's biggest international literature festival – you couldn’t ask for a better backdrop.

Best for a fantastical escape

Less than an hour by train from the capital Lisbon,  Sintra feels like another world. It's a great day trip away from the city hubbub. Like a setting from a fairy tale, this historic hillside township is sprinkled with stone-walled taverns and lorded over by a  multicolored palace .

Forested hillsides form the backdrop to this storybook setting, with imposing castles, mystical gardens, strange mansions and centuries-old monasteries hidden among the trees. The fog that sweeps in by night adds another layer of mystery.

Planning tip:  Chilly evenings are best spent by the fire in one of Sintra’s many charming B&Bs.

5. Setúbal Peninsula 

Best for wild, cliff-backed beaches

South of Lisbon, the Setúbal Peninsula has long been the weekend playground of Lisboetas (Lisbon residents). A ferry ride, followed by a short bus or bicycle ride, takes you to the Costa da Caparica, a seemingly endless beachfront that gets wilder and less crowded the further south you go. If you want a surf lesson, some downtime on the sands, or a meal overlooking the lapping waves, this is the place to come. 

If you’re seeking a bit more solitude, head down to the Parque Natural da Arrábida at the southern end of the peninsula. Here, you'll find cliffs covered with thick vegetation, picturesque coves and beaches such as Praia do Portinho da Arrábida, with fine sand, azure waters, and the ruins of an ancient site that dates back to Roman times. 

Best for historical architecture 

The heart of the Alentejo region, Évora is one of Portugal’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns, and it's an enchanting place to spend a couple of days. Inside the 14th-century walls, narrow, winding lanes lead to striking monuments, including an elaborate medieval cathedral, Roman ruins and a picturesque town square.

But this isn't a musty museum piece – Évora is also a lively university town, and its many restaurants serve up some excellent, hearty Alentejan cuisine.

Best for urban exploring 

It would be hard to dream up a more romantic city than  Porto . Portugal’s second-largest urban center is laced with narrow pedestrian lanes, baroque churches and cafe-dotted plazas, leading the eye down to the Douro River and its landmark bridges. Needless to say, there's no shortage of  great experiences here . Start in the  Ribeira district – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – then cross the bridge to explore centuries-old port wineries in  Vila Nova de Gaia , where you can sip the world’s best port. 

You can also learn about Porto’s history (both the drink and the city) and other facets of Portuguese identity at the World of Wine , a sprawling complex of museums, restaurants and bars overlooking the city. Though Porto is defined by its air of dignified history, modern architecture, cosmopolitan dining, vibrant nightlife and artistic activity are injecting new life into the city.

8. The Minho 

Best for traditional villages and wilderness trails 

The Portuguese have a special fondness for the Minho , a verdant region of vineyard-covered valleys, mountainous wilds, isolated beaches and picturesque river towns that seem little changed by time. The gateway to the region is Braga , a city with Roman ruins, a fabled medieval cathedral , and tranquil flower-trimmed plazas sprinkled with outdoor cafes and restaurants. 

Further north, you’ll find Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês , a vast, rugged wilderness of dramatic peaks, meandering streams and frozen-in-time stone villages. Dozens of hiking trails crisscross the reserve, taking walkers past old Roman roads, castle ruins or sparkling waterfalls.

Planning tip:  If you're here in summer, cool down in the idyllic swimming holes – these are among the best places to be in Portugal during the hot weather.

Best for a student vibe

Portugal’s most atmospheric college town,  Coimbra , rises steeply from the Rio Mondego, and its handsome medieval quarter houses one of Europe’s oldest universities. Students roam the narrow streets clad in black capes, while the sound of fado (Portugal’s soulful traditional style of music) drifts through the Moorish town gates towards the stained-glass windows of the historic  Café Santa Cruz .

Planning tip:  Grown-ups may well appreciate the town’s student-driven nightlife and the medieval lanes of the steeply stacked historic center. Visitors with younger kids can keep busy at Portugal dos Pequenitos , a theme park with miniature versions of Portuguese monuments.

10. Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela 

Best for hiking and alpine activities in winter

The Serra da Estrela – Portugal’s  highest mountain range – is the place to come for rugged scenery, outdoor adventures, and glimpses of a vanishing traditional way of life. Hikers can choose from an expansive network of high-country trails with stupendous vistas, and the region's fascinating mountain villages make perfect bases for outdoor adventures.

At the country’s highest point – the summit of Torre, artificially pushed to 2000m (6561ft) by the addition of a not-so-subtle stone monument – you can slalom down Portugal’s only ski slope. Oh, and did we mention the furry sheepdog puppies that frolic by the roadside? You’ll long to take one home.

11. The Algarve

Best for a relaxing family holiday

Sunseekers have much to celebrate in Portugal. Along the south coast, the Algarve is famed for its gorgeous and varied coastline – you can either join the crowds on the people-packed sands at major resorts or find seaside peace on dramatic wild beaches backed by wind-carved cliffs. Days are spent playing in the waves, taking long oceanfront strolls, or surfing some of Europe's most memorable breaks. 

The Algarve is also one of the best places in Portugal for kids . You’ll find family-friendly beaches, water parks and plenty of outdoor adventures (from boating to hidden sea caves to exploring undeveloped islands).

Planning tip:  There’s never a bad time to visit this region, with its 300 days of sunshine each year, though you’ll find the best prices and thinnest crowds in winter. 

This article was first published June 2021 and updated November 2023

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Lisbon   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit Lisbon

The best time to visit Lisbon is either from March to May or September to October, because the weather is still warm, hotel rates are cheaper and there are fewer crowds than in summer. In those seasons, you might also be able to squeeze in a few beach days. The summer sees hot temperatures and crowded shores. Winters in Lisbon are warm for Europe, with the lows dipping into the mid-40s.

Weather in Lisbon

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Lisbon

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11 Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

I n the past decade, the hilly, cobbled streets of Lisbon have undergone quite the head-turning transformation. All over the Portuguese capital, centuries-old castles and Old World–feeling tabernas have welcomed more modern neighbors like contemporary museums, colorful design shops, and bustling food halls.

Together, they create a dazzling mosaic of experiences that has made this riverside city one of today's most-visited travel destinations. Here are the 11 best things to do in Lisbon.

1. Sample dishes by top Portuguese chefs at Time Out Market Lisboa

Time Out Market Lisboa in Cais do Sodre answers the age-old question: Where should we eat? Inside the 4,300-square-foot food hall within the Mercado da Ribeira, Time Out Market features food stalls from some of Portugal's most renowned chefs: Tuck into a hearty francesinha sandwich from Marlene Vieira , roasted cod with a chickpea puree from Henrique Sa Pessoa, or a plate of black pork sauteed with potatoes and mushrooms from Vincent Farges.

All of them helm fine-dining kitchens across the city but prepare more accessibly priced fare at this food hall. There's also a calendar of cooking workshops (from Japanese food to traditional Portuguese) that you can take.

2. Get a bird's-eye view of red-tile rooftops at Castelo de São Jorge

The hilltop Castelo de São Jorge is a beacon for the city, visible from most pockets of central Lisbon. Historically, it's been part of numerous civilizations, from the Romans to the Moors. Dom Afonso Henriques, Portugal's first king in 1147, made the 64,583-square-foot castle his royal residence, and ruins from these various epochs remain. It's now one of Lisbon's most important monuments and tourism attractions-not just for its history but also for the incredible views you'll get of the city that sprawls around it. And for bird lovers, keep an eye out for wild peacocks that now call the castle home.

3. Stroll through Alfama

Narrow, meandering alleys and centuries-old buildings (some with walls festooned with azulejo tiles) characterize this Portuguese neighborhood. Solo exploration is easy to do here: Walk up and down the sloping hills of the area as you explore the 12th-century Sé cathedral, Fado Museum, and mom-and-pop eateries. Alfama is also home to a very popular flea market, Feira da Ladra, held on Tuesdays and Saturdays-pick up anything from antique ceramics to decades-old books here.

For some of the best views of the city, head to the Miradouro das Portas do Sol viewpoint. It's an especially scenic spot to watch the sunset as all of Lisbon seemingly stretches out in front of you.

4. Shop for made-in-Portugal merch at A Vida Portuguesa

Journalist Catarina Portas changed the retail game for Lisbon when she opened A Vida Portuguesa in 2007, delivering selected Portuguese crafts and design talent that draws in locals and visitors. Its original Chiado location has since closed, but the outpost in Intendente still flies the flag for national makers. Its inventory of tinned fish, accessories made from burel (a wool textile from Serra da Estrela), ceramics in the shape of roosters and cabbages, and cork kitchenware make for great souvenirs.

5. Explore Belém's historic structures

The concentration of must-see attractions in Belém, a neighborhood tucked away in the western edge of town, makes it an appealing area to spend half the day.

Start with a stop at Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a stone monument on the banks of the Tagus River that commemorates Portugal's achievements. It features ship sails as well as a group of men who were critical to Portugal's colonial expansion, including King Afonso V of Portugal and explorer Ferdinand Magellan. Nearby is Jerónimos Monastery, a 16th-century relic that exemplifies the Portuguese Gothic architectural movement, with maritime design details like columns covered in chunky rope relief. Check out the elaborate mosaic pavement that surrounds it (you may even spot fish motifs).

A 20-minute walk from the monastery takes you to Belém Tower, also from the 16th century, that resembles a rook chess piece. From this former fortress, explorers like Vasco da Gama set off for their far-flung adventures. After a few hours of sightseeing, satisfy your hunger at Pastéis de Belém with Portugal's iconic cinnamon-dusted egg custards, which the bakery has been making since 1837.

6. Visit Ajuda National Palace

If you're eager to see what royal opulence looked like in Portugal, book a ticket for entry into the Ajuda National Palace located west of the city. This 19th-century palace was once home to King Dom Luís I. Now a museum, it houses marble statues, massive crystal chandeliers, wall-to-wall tapestries, and stucco ceilings in gold leaf. Some rooms are also used as galleries for contemporary art exhibitions.

7. Take a ride aboard Tram 28

Before there were taxis and Uber in Lisbon, there was Tram 28 . Since the 1930s these yellow-painted wood Remodelado streetcars have snaked around the city. Nowadays, riding the tram's route as it travels for about four miles is a leisurely way to see Lisbon, but it has become popular so anticipate a wait before getting on. (Some people complain of waiting up to an hour.)

8. Spend a few hours at LX Factory

If you're looking to see a concentration of more contemporary spots in Lisbon, head west to the district of Alcântara for LX Factory . This industrial complex of 19th-century factories was reimagined in 2008 into a collection of cool boutiques, restaurants, bars, and office spaces. Mine for fair-trade fashion at Etnik Spring, marvel at art-including large-scale watercolors and quirky drawings-at O Gabinete Da Madame Thao, or shop for upcycled home decor at Saudade Design.

9. See contemporary art and then people-watch at MATT

You'll find art exhibitions celebrating all forms of media-from enormous textile sculptures by Joana Vasconcelos to audio-visual installations by Maria Loura Estevão's-inside the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) . But perhaps what makes the renovated central power station so fun to visit is its location and architecture. The multi-disciplinary museum is stuffed inside British architect Amanda Levete's curvy building covered in ceramic tiles. The sloping riverside terrace around it has become a people-watching perch; it's now a popular outdoor hang in Lisbon. If art is high on your list of must-sees in Lisbon, travel 15 minutes north from MAAT to the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum . The art collection here includes Egyptian sculptures, paintings by Rembrandt, and decorative items by René Lalique. Plus, if you go after 2 p.m. on Sundays, entry is free.

10. Listen to fado

Fado is Portugal's most enduring musical style, dating back to the 19th century. The singing style-characterized with mournful, melancholic melodies and lyrics-is so rich with storytelling and history that UNESCO has included it as part of its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity . You can listen to fado all over Lisbon, from dedicated music venues to restaurants that include a performance as part of the dining experience. Tasca do Chico, an intimate bar in Bairro Alto, hosts fado nights a few times a week and even invites patrons to belt out a song or two. Clube de Fado in Alfama, however, regularly attracts big-name fado singers (from Maria Armanda to Rodrigo Costa Félix) to enchant guests for a dinner-and-a-show experience.

11. Follow in Anthony Bourdain's footsteps with a seafood feast at Ramiro

One of the most popular reservations in Lisbon is at the 68-year-old restaurant Ramiro for a fortifying seafood spread. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu-which includes tiger prawns in a butter sauce and sapateira, a crab dish where some of the meat is mixed with spices and herbs and then served within its shell-but make sure you finish with prego. (It's customary in Portugal to end your seafood meal with the beef sandwich for dessert.)

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Lisbon & Porto 6-Day Explorer: Unveil the Charms of Portugal

April 21, 2024 · 4 min read

Embark on a 6-day journey through the heart of Portugal, starting in the vibrant city of Lisbon. Begin with the historic Belém Tower, a symbol of maritime discovery, followed by the Monument to the Discoveries. Reflect on Portugal's past at the Jerónimos Monastery before diving into the unique collection at the Bus Museum. Stroll down the chic Avenida da Liberdade, ride the Glória Funicular, and soak in the atmosphere at Rossio Square. Don't miss the panoramic views from the Santa Justa Lift. Day 3 is dedicated to the medieval São Jorge Castle and the charming alleys of Alfama. The following day, marvel at marine life in the Lisbon Oceanarium and explore the modern Park of the Nations. Transition to Porto, where the stunning Luís I Bridge and the solemn Porto Cathedral await. Wander through the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the neoclassical Bolsa Palace. Your final day includes the towering Clérigos Tower, the exquisite Livraria Lello bookstore, the azulejo-adorned Church of Saint Ildefonso, and the soulful Capela Das Almas. This itinerary promises a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and the discovery of Portugal's timeless beauty.

• Day 1: Unveiling Lisbon's Age of Discoveries

Belém Tower

Kickstart your Lisbon adventure with the iconic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to the Age of Discoveries. Spend an hour marveling at this fortified tower at Av. Brasilia, which has guarded the entrance to Lisbon's harbor since the 16th century. Its ornate architecture and historical significance make it a perfect starting point for your journey through Lisbon's rich maritime history.

Attraction Info

• Av. Brasilia, 1400-038 Lisbon
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open on Tue-Sun,10:00am-5:30pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Monument to the Discoveries

Just a stone's throw from Belém Tower, continue your exploration to the Monument to the Discoveries. This striking monument celebrates the Portuguese explorers who contributed to the world's knowledge of new lands. A brief five-minute stop here allows you to appreciate the grandeur of the sculpture and the figures it immortalizes, standing tall on the edge of the Tagus River.

• Av. Brasília 1400-038 Lisbon
• Suggested tour duration: 5-15 minutes
• Open from 10:00am-7:00pm

Jerónimos Monastery

A short stroll away lies the majestic Jerónimos Monastery, another jewel in Lisbon's historical crown. Dedicate an hour to wander through its vast Gothic cloisters and chapels. This architectural masterpiece not only serves as a monument to Portugal's Discoveries era but also houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama, making it a site of both beauty and reverence.

• Praca do Imperio Belém, Lisbon 1400-206 Portugal
• Suggested tour duration: 1-1.5 hour
• Open from 9:30am-6:00pm

Conclude your day's historical journey with a visit to the Bus Museum. Located at Rua 1º de Maio, this museum offers a two-hour dive into the evolution of Lisbon's public transportation. From horse-drawn carriages to modern buses, the exhibits here provide a unique perspective on the city's development and are a testament to the ingenuity of urban planning.

• Rua 1º de Maio, 101 - 103，1300-472 Lisbon
• Suggested tour duration: 2 hour
• Open on Mon-Sat,10:00am-1:00pm;Open on Mon-Sat,2:00pm-6:00pm;Closed on Sun，Closed on holidays

Where to Stay Tonight

Quiet and sunny central lisbon apartment, vila gale opera.

• Day 2: Exploring Lisbon's Historic Heart

Avenida da Liberdade

Begin your second day with a stroll down Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon's grand boulevard echoing the charm of bygone eras. This characteristic neighborhood, lined with lush greenery and historic buildings, offers a delightful hour-long promenade. As you wander, take in the luxurious boutiques and traditional Portuguese pavements that make Avenida da Liberdade a quintessential Lisbon experience.

• Av. da Liberdade, 1250-096 Lisbon, Portugal
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
• Open 24 hours

Glória Funicular

Next, step back in time aboard the Glória Funicular, a vintage tram that's been climbing the steep hills of Lisbon since the 1880s. This short, yet picturesque journey is a unique way to explore the city's bus tours and historical sites, and it's an ideal half-hour interlude between the grandeur of Avenida da Liberdade and the upcoming attractions.

• 1250-096 Lisbon, Portugal
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour

Rossio Square

Continue your day at the vibrant Rossio Square, the pulsating heart of Lisbon for centuries. Spend a leisurely half hour people-watching, admiring the fountains, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere that makes this square a favorite meeting spot for locals and tourists alike.

• Lisbon 1100-026, Portugal

Santa Justa Lift

Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the iconic Santa Justa Lift. Not just a means of transportation, this lift offers an observation deck with breathtaking views over Lisbon's historic quarters. The intricate neo-gothic architecture and the panoramic vistas make the half-hour spent here an unforgettable highlight of your Lisbon adventure.

• R. do Ouro, 1150-060 Lisbon
• Open from 7:00am-10:45pm

LV Premier Apartments Chiado- CH

Tempo flh hotels lisboa.

• Day 3: Lisbon's Historic Heart - Castles and Quaint Quarters

São Jorge Castle

As the sun rises on the third day of our Lisbon-Porto adventure, we ascend to the majestic São Jorge Castle, a beacon of history perched atop Lisbon's highest hill. With approximately an hour to explore, visitors can immerse themselves in the grandeur of ancient battlements and take in panoramic views of the city that stretch to the horizon. The castle's storied walls whisper tales of bygone eras, offering a glimpse into Lisbon's storied past amidst the tranquil morning hours.

• Castle of S. Jorge, Rua de Santa Cruz, 1100-129 Lisbon
• Open from 3/1-10/31,9:00am-9:00pm;Open from 11/1-2/28,9:00am-6:00pm，Closing only 5 days a year on January 1st, May 1st, and December 24th, 25th and 31st*. *31st of December closed from 1pm.

After delving into the depths of history at São Jorge Castle, the day unfolds in the labyrinthine lanes of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest quarter. Here, the essence of the city's soul is palpable in every historic building and echoing Fado melody. Alfama invites travelers to lose themselves in its narrow streets for the day, discovering hidden gems and soaking up the authentic atmosphere that has charmed visitors for centuries. It's a place where time seems to stand still, and every corner reveals a new story waiting to be told.

• Lisbon, Portugal
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

Hotel Convento do Salvador

Pousada alfama.

• Day 4: Lisbon's Marine Wonders and Modern Marvels

Lisbon Oceanarium

Starting your fourth day with a splash, the Lisbon Oceanarium awaits as your first stop. Nestled in the modern Esplanade Dom Carlos I, this aquatic sanctuary is a mesmerizing gateway to the ocean's depths. Spend a couple of hours being captivated by the diverse marine life housed in one of the world's largest aquariums. The Oceanarium's innovative design creates the illusion of a single vast ocean, bringing you face-to-face with everything from delicate seahorses to graceful sharks. It's an underwater odyssey that's both educational and enchanting.

• Esplanade Dom Carlos I s / nº, 1990-005 Lisbon
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open 11:00am-8:00pm on 01/01;Open from 1/2-12/23,10:00am-8:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 12/24;Open 11:00am-8:00pm on 12/25;Open from 12/26-12/30,10:00am-8:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 12/31

Park of the Nations

After immersing yourself in the aquatic wonders, emerge to the futuristic landscape of the Park of the Nations. This sprawling area, transformed from an industrial wasteland into a vibrant hub for the 1998 World Expo, now stands as a testament to contemporary design and urban planning. Dedicate the rest of your day to exploring this dynamic district, where you can stroll along the riverfront promenade, marvel at the cutting-edge architecture, and perhaps catch a concert or event. It's a perfect blend of leisure, culture, and entertainment to round out your day.

• 1990-231 Lisbon, Portugal

Global Guest PN

Tivoli oriente lisboa hotel.

• Day 5: Porto's Architectural Marvels and Cultural Tapestry

Luís I Bridge

Begin your day with a stroll across the iconic Luís I Bridge, a stunning metal arch bridge that spans the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. As you traverse this engineering masterpiece, take in the panoramic views of the city and river below. The bridge's two-tiered design serves both vehicles and pedestrians, offering a unique perspective of Porto's landscape from different heights.

• Pte. Luiz I, 4000 Porto, Portugal

Porto Cathedral

Next, immerse yourself in spiritual grandeur at the Porto Cathedral, a solemn fortress-like church that stands as a testament to the city's historical significance. With its Romanesque roots and Gothic cloisters, the cathedral offers a serene escape from the bustling streets. Its imposing facade and richly decorated interior provide a glimpse into Porto's religious heritage and architectural evolution.

• Terreiro da Sé, 4050-573 Porto, Portugal
• Open from 4/1-10/31,9:00am-6:30pm;Open from 11/1-3/31,9:00am-5:30pm，The church will be temporarily closed for Christmas and Easter

Continue your cultural exploration in Ribeira, Porto's vibrant riverside quarter and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the narrow cobbled streets, past colorful houses, and lively cafes. Ribeira's bustling atmosphere, with street performers and local artisans, is the perfect backdrop to experience the authentic spirit of Porto. The neighborhood's historical significance and picturesque setting by the Douro make it an essential stop on your Porto itinerary.

• Ribeira, Porto, Portugal

Bolsa Palace

Conclude your day with a visit to the Bolsa Palace, a neoclassical marvel that once housed the Porto Commercial Association. This historical building is renowned for its exquisite interior, including the ornate Arabian Hall. A guided tour will reveal the palace's intricate details and the stories behind its opulent rooms, providing a fitting end to a day filled with architectural and cultural wonders.

• R. de Ferreira Borges, 4050-253 Porto, Portugal
• Open from 9:00am-6:30pm

Memoria Porto FLH Hotels

Ribeiredge guest house.

• Day 6: Historic Charm and Literary Grandeur in Porto

Clerigos Tower

Begin your final day with an ascent to the skies at Clérigos Tower, a baroque masterpiece that dominates Porto's skyline. Spend an hour marveling at this historic structure on Rua São Filipe Neri, where you can climb the narrow steps to be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. The tower's intricate design and prominence make it a beacon for travelers seeking to uncover the architectural prowess of Porto's past.

• Rua Sao Filipe Neri, Porto Portugal
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open from 1/2-12/23,9:00am-7:00pm;Open 9:00am-2:00pm on 12/24;Open 11:00am-7:00pm on 12/25;Open 9:00am-2:00pm on 12/31;Open 11:00am-7:00pm on 1/1;Open from 12/26-12/30,9:00am-7:00pm

Livraria Lello

Next, let the allure of literature guide you to Livraria Lello, a mere stone's throw from the Clérigos Tower. This enchanting bookstore is a masterwork of design, with its neo-Gothic façade and stunning interior that has inspired writers and dreamers alike. Allocate half an hour to wander through the aisles, under the spell of its wooden staircase and the scent of old books—a sanctuary for bibliophiles and architecture enthusiasts.

• R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto, Portugal
• Open from 9:00am-7:30pm，Closed on December 25th, January 1st, Easter Sunday, May 1st and June 24th.

Church of Saint Ildefonso

Continue your journey through Porto's spiritual heritage with a visit to the Church of Saint Ildefonso. This remarkable edifice, adorned with azulejo tiles, tells a story of devotion and artistry. Spend an hour here at R. de Santo Ildefonso 11, immersing yourself in the tranquility and admiring the intricate blue and white ceramic tiles that cloak the church's exterior, creating a visual symphony that echoes the city's religious and cultural identity.

• R. de Santo Ildefonso 11, 4000-542 Porto, Portugal
• Open on Tue, Thu,9:00am-12:15pm,3:00pm-6:30pm;Open on Wed, Fri,9:00am-12:15pm,3:00pm-5:15pm;Open on Sat,9:00am-12:30pm,3:00pm-6:00pm;Open on Sun,9:00am-11:00am;Open on Mon,3:00pm-5:15pm

Capela Das Almas

Conclude your Porto exploration at Capela das Almas, another sacred site that captivates with its azulejo-tiled façade. Located on Rua de Santa Catarina, this chapel offers a serene retreat to reflect on your travels. Dedicate an hour to embrace the peaceful ambiance and the detailed tile work that narrates the lives of various saints, a fitting end to your six-day sojourn through the historic and vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto.

• Rua de Santa Catarina 428 Corner with Rua Fernandes Tomás, 30 meters from Bolhão-Porto, Porto Portugal
• Open on Mon-Thu,7:30am-6:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,7:30am-12:30pm,6:30pm-7:30pm;Open on Fri,7:30am-8:00pm

Hotel do Norte

Youropo - capela.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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No need to visit - Taberna - Bairro do Avillez

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• Central Portugal    
• Lisbon District    
• Lisbon    
• Lisbon Restaurants    

“No need to visit” Review of Taberna - Bairro do Avillez

Very small portions for charcuterie boards and tiny plates as mains, seemed like a children’s menu. Highly priced and not even great quality food. Staff was nice but that’s about it. Wouldn’t go back, completely overrated restaurant for basic food.

• Excellent 1,058
• Very good 645
• Average 272
• Terrible 157
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1 - 5 of 2,298 reviews

This place was recommended to us and it did not disappoint. We live in Portugal,(our friends don't) so we wanted a typical portuguese restaurant which would show off the cuisine without a touristy vibe. This was perfect for what we wanted. We booked ahead and just as well that we did as the place was full all evening. All patrons apart from us were Portuguese. The service was excellent, the waiters helpful, giving advice on the dishes and the orders were quick to arrive. The food was 100% delicious. Well cooked and imaginative. The desserts were stunning ( especially the pasdion fruot cram in a chocolate sphere woth coconut icecream!!!) The building itself houses different restaurants under the same "umbrella" one of which has 2 Michelin stars ( book very far ahead for that one!) so the website can be a little confusing. Totally wonderful and worth 5 stars. It's quickly become one of our favourotes

The concept of this property made us excited to try out one of the restaurants and it fell short in multiple ways. The food that we ordered was not as described and the staff did not seem to care. One of the dishes we ordered was the flaked codfish with sausage topped with cornbread crumbs and a fried egg. Inside the dish was 75% cabbages and onions with a small piece of fish in the center. There was also not one piece of sausage. The server told me we should have ordered something else then. We also ordered the steak sandwich. The steak in the sandwich was good but the fries honestly tasted like lukewarm McDonalds fries. Also I understand having limited table space so some tables may be close together but it’s irritating when the restaurant puts everyone along the same wall in a dining room when they are not busy. Numerous times we bumped arms with the diners next to us it was that close. Completely unnecessary given the lack of business in the part of the restaurant. Be aware this restaurant automatically adds a gratuity onto your bill. We felt this was very tacky and the only restaurant on our Portugal trip that did this. I never write restaurant reviews like this but the experience felt so poor to us I felt it was necessary.

We had the most exceptional meal here on our first night in Lisbon. We opted for tapas, and every dish was delicious. The waiter was really helpful with wine choices, and there is a really lovely and buzzy atmosphere. This was our favourite meal here. We were tempted to go back and try one of the other restaurants in the same space.

A tapas style restaurant. Good ( not great) food and atmosphere, excellent service, reasonable prices. Good wine list Worth a visit

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9 Best Places to Live in Portugal, According to Local Real Estate Experts

Home to beautiful sun-drenched beaches, quaint fishing villages, and bustling cities, Portugal's allure among expats is undeniable.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

In the past decade, Portugal has transformed into one of the most popular European countries for expats — be it digital nomads or retirees — and it's easy to see why. The country has it all: nearly year-round sunny weather; golden-sand beaches ; warm and friendly locals; history that spans hundreds of years; fresh seafood; awe-inspiring landscapes that span rolling hills and vineyards, lush mountains, and scenic valleys; and a laid-back lifestyle.

Even better, that lifestyle comes at a more affordable price than any other western European country. Portugal is also an easy direct flight away from the East Coast, and it's connected to many other global destinations thanks to its three international airports: Lisbon, Porto to the north, and Faro to the south.

So, where in Portugal should you settle down? From charming fishing villages to vibrant Lisbon and Porto, we asked local real estate agents for the top markets and places to live in Portugal.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Portugal's enchanting capital is a sight to behold — set on seven hills (just like Rome), Lisbon is a treasure trove of historic and modern districts, many with waterfront views, historic landmarks, buildings clad in traditional azulejo ceramic tiles, small neighborhood restaurants, and coffee shops filled with the sweet smell of freshly baked pasteis de nata , Portugal's famous custard tarts.

"Depending on the desired lifestyle, there are neighborhoods like Campo de Ourique and Avenidas Novas where life can be lived 'entirely on foot' without the need for a car. If you're looking for a more sophisticated area, nothing beats the axis of Avenida da Liberdade, Chiado, Príncipe Real, and Amoreiras. On the other hand, if you prefer a more sporty lifestyle, the areas along the Tagus River — namely, Belém, Alcântara, 24 de Julho, Beato, and Parque das Nações — are ideal," Paulo Lopes, CEO of Casaiberia Real Estate , told Travel + Leisure.

However, he explained, due to the high demand and low supply growth, real estate prices constantly increase, especially in central areas.

StudioBarcelona/Getty Images

This former quaint fishing village north of Lisbon is a luxury home destination that doesn't lack character.

"With cultural attractions such as the historic center and the Citadel Palace, along with recreational amenities like stunning beaches and the renowned Boca do Inferno, Cascais offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury," Marta Bettencourt, a broker with Modern , said. The area is especially popular with families because it's home to excellent international schools and many kid-friendly facilities and parks.

Cláudia Ferreira of Casaiberia explained that Estoril, Birre, and Quinta da Marinha are some of the most popular districts for single-family homes, while Monte Estoril, downtown Cascais, and Gandarinha are favored for apartments.

studiof22byricardorocha/Getty Images

Dubbed the " Hamptons of Portugal ," Comporta is a hidden gem, just an hour south of Lisbon and home to about 1,500 residents. 

"The history of the Herdade of Comporta dates to 1836, with the rice fields being an integral part of its landscape, but Comporta has recently gained renown for its breathtaking natural surroundings, including white-sand beaches, dunes, and expansive rice fields," Modern broker Filipa Melo explained. 

Stylish, modern villas, residences in new developments, and historic homes are all options for homebuyers here. And just like in any other beachfront location, the closer the home is to the ocean, the higher its price tag.

"The allure of Comporta lies in its untouched beauty and serene atmosphere, making it a magnet for individuals searching for a peaceful and exclusive retreat," Melo added. "The area offers upscale amenities, high-end restaurants, and boutique shops, further contributing to its reputation as a destination for those seeking an upscale and discreet escape."

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Portugal's second-largest city is known for its scenic riverfront dotted with wine-tasting rooms and vibrantly hued houses, but to its residents, the city is also a bustling economic hub with a burgeoning tech and startup economy.

"Living in Porto is embracing a distinctive blend of tranquility and liveliness. The city, maintaining a unique essence, offers a high quality of life, outstanding education, and a harmonious work-life balance," Lopes explained, also noting that Porto's winters tend to be cold and rainy, which "might challenge those unaccustomed to such climates."

According to him, a couple without children would need about €2,000 per month to live comfortably in Porto. 

In terms of neighborhoods, he recommended Bonfim and Lordelo do Ouro e Massarelos for families and Foz do Douro and Cedofeita for those seeking a lively setting with bars, restaurants, and markets.

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You've probably seen photos of Sintra's Pena Palace, which looks like something out of a fairy tale. But this historic mountain town, full of sprawling villas and royal estates, also offers a quaint and picturesque home setting just about 30 minutes from bustling Lisbon.

"[Sintra] is divided into two facets: the historic old town — a tourist magnet — and the new town, pulsating with activity," said Lopes. "In the new town, modern conveniences thrive, including shopping malls, multinational companies, and leisure centers."

Another draw? The destination has a mild climate, so those not fond of Lisbon's hot summers will find solace here. Lopes added that Sintra has become a haven for remote workers "seeking a peaceful escape." Real estate prices hover around 2,258 euros per square meter (prices in Cascais, for example, are almost double that).

Silver Coast

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North of Lisbon, this breathtaking area, which stretches from Aveiro to Torres Vedras, is emerging as a more affordable, under-the-radar destination for expats. While the Atlantic waters here are much chillier, the region offers a wealth of natural, historic, and cultural attractions (including many UNESCO-listed sites) that keep its residents active.

"Choosing to reside on the Silver Coast is a fantastic decision for expats in Portugal, especially those seeking seaside views, more affordable living, and a peaceful environment,"said Lopes. "Small cities, friendly locals, and an undiscovered expat community create a unique atmosphere."

Aveiro, also known as the "Venice of Portugal" for its canals, is chock-full of architectural gems and art nouveau buildings. White-sand beaches frequented by surfers and fresh seafood add to Aveiro's allure among expats. Further south, Mira is home to one of Portugal's best beaches, Praia de Mira, according to Lopes.

Algarve Villages

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The notoriously scenic south of Portugal is home to many cities, towns, and villages, along with a vibrant, English-speaking expat community (especially retirees) hailing from the U.K. and U.S.

Alvor, for example, a former fishing village that has kept much of its character and historic charm, has a bustling main drag and a wide, white-sand beach that fills up with visitors come summer.

Just about seven miles east, Ferragudo has narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere, Lopes explained. "It has managed to maintain a more authentic and less touristy [vibe], and has been seen as the Algarve's little treasure," he added. 

Similarly, Carvoeiro and Lagoa attract those seeking small-town living and a quieter lifestyle.

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Algarve's capital blends city amenities like an international airport, a university, administrative institutions, and retail destinations with the region's signature laid-back lifestyle.

"Faro offers a mix of historical and cultural attractions. It has a charming old downtown and is a gateway to the Ria Formosa Natural Park," explained Lopes. 

Before purchasing property here or in another town in the Algarve, Lopes recommends seeking legal advice from a local solicitor or lawyer specializing in real estate transactions in Portugal and exploring the various residency options available to non-European Union citizens. Remember that the popular Golden Visa program, which allowed foreigners to live in the country for five years after a real estate investment, underwent significant changes in 2023 .

Carol Yepes/Getty Images

This beautiful city in the western Algarve, located along the Bensafrim River and Atlantic, is known for its rugged coastline dotted with caves, stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and historic downtown. Lopes pointed out two of its most well-known landmarks are the Ponta da Piedade cliffs and nearby Dona Ana Beach. 

In the Algarve, the median home prices have risen by six percent since October 2022, and a single square meter now costs $2,272, according to a report by GlobalPropertyGuide.com.

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Hot deal: You can save hundreds on flights to Portugal from Vancouver

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Travellers can enjoy reduced prices on flights to Portugal from Vancouver if they are flexible with travel dates. 

Lisbon, Portugal is one of the world's fastest-growing tourist destinations, attracting tourists in droves to its sun-soaked streets. 

Most people travel to Portugal in the summer from April through September when temperatures are hot. Lisbon has the month-long festas (festivals) in June, featuring dance, decorations, and music. The month is centred around the feast of Santo António from June 12 to 13 which features several parades.

However, travellers from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) may wish to travel at a different time to avoid paying high prices. 

When can I book the cheapest flights to Portugal from Vancouver?

Generally, November is the cheapest month to fly to Lisbon from Vancouver, with prices ranging from $780 to $1,000 (see slide two), according to Google Flights.

July is the most expensive month to visit Portugal, with the cheapest prices averaging between $1,500 and $1,850. But there are some cheap tickets during the warmer months.

For example, a flight that departs YVR on Tuesday, Aug. 27 and returns from the Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) in Lisbon costs $898 through third-party supplier Flighthub. The ticket includes segments by Canadian carriers Porter Airlines and Air Transat with one stopover in Montreal on the outbound journey and one in Toronto on the return portion of the trip (see slide three). 

Are there cheap one-way flights available for travellers who wish to fly home from another country?

Travellers from YVR who don't mind making two stops en route to Portugal can fly for around $600 on multiple dates in October and November. 

For example, a flight departing Vancouver on Monday, Oct. 14 makes two stops before arriving in Lisbon and costs around $600 (depending on what third party you book with). Flights booked directly with Azores Airlines cost $647. The first stop in Toronto is just over two hours long and the second one in Ponta Delgada is under two (see slide four).

Can I fly direct from Vancouver to Lisbon, Portugal?

There are no direct flights to Portugal from Vancouver. 

The fastest flight with stops from Vancouver to Lisbon takes 12 hours and 25 minutes, according to Google. 

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