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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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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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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Lisbon travel guide — how to visit lisbon on a budget.

The best things to do and see in Lisbon, Portugal.

Lisbon is a beautiful treasure built across seven hills. It’s a laid-back city with coastal vibes that’s famous for its pastel buildings, café culture, and Fado music. You’ll love wandering through the slightly gritty, yet immensely charming alleys and meandering streets. It’s also very friendly on the wallet when compared to other Western European cities — food and lodging are both priced reasonably and attractions are about average. And if you run out of money, you can just spend your days on the beach drinking cheap wine!

[We’ve also written travel guides for Amsterdam , Barcelona ,  Berlin , London , Paris , Rome and multiple other cities .]

What You’ll Find In This Lisbon Travel Guide:

How Much To Budget To Visit Lisbon

• How Long To Visit Lisbon
• The Good And Not-So-Good Things About Lisbon
• Lisbon’s Must-See Sights and Attractions
• Cheap Eats in Lisbon
• Best Beer in Lisbon
• Best Lisbon Hostels
• Lisbon Nightlife
• More Resources To Help You Plan Your Visit On A Budget
• Public Transportation

Lisbon is friendly on the wallet, especially when compared to other Western European cities — food and lodging are both priced reasonably and attractions are about average. And if you run out of money, you can just spend your days on the beach drinking cheap wine!

We recommend budgeting  €45 -€60/day for travelers on a backpacker’s budget — you can easily spend more and you might be able to spend less, but this is a good range for planning purposes.

You can read our Lisbon Daily Price Guide for more in-depth cost details.

How Long To Visit Lisbon: 2-5 Days

You can see all of Lisbon’s highlights in about three full days but you could spend a few more days in the city if you want to travel at a more leisurely pace. There are also a few nice day trips that you can check out if you wanted to add a few days to your trip.

When To Visit Lisbon + Weather

Lisbon has nice weather all year. Winters are mild and summers rarely get uncomfortably hot — and you can hit the beach if it does get hot.

The nicest time to visit Lisbon is from March to early June  or September to October — mostly because of the warm weather and the fewer tourists. Expect temperatures in the 60s and 70s.

Summers are a bit warmer with temperatures reaching the mid-80s. Of course, this is the busiest time so you’ll have to deal with tourists. Also, a lot of the locals head to the coasts during August.

Winters in Lisbon rarely get too cold you can expect temperatures in the mid-50s. However, winters are the rainiest season so you should pack for rain.

The Good And Not-So-Good Things About Lisbon: A Quick Overview

Lisbon has plenty of things you’ll love but there are a few things you may not like so much.

Nice Weather. One of the great things about Lisbon is the great weather. The summers are warm and sunny and the winters are cooler but still comfortable.

Cheap Transport. Lisbon has a good public transportation infrastructure and it’s very affordable. You won’t have any trouble getting around.

Fun Nightlife. Lisbon is known for its nightlife and drinks are cheap so people come from all over the world to have a great time. There is also something for just about everyone so don’t worry if you’re not into nightclubs.

The Beach.  You can easily reach the beach via a short train ride.

Affordable Food. In general, Lisbon has a lot of great food (especially seafood) and it’s cheap. It’s easy to find a good meal for well under €10.

The Tiles. Lisbon is covered in beautiful tiles so it makes it a joy to explore and sightsee.

The Not-So-Good

Petty Theft/Pickpockets. Lisbon does have its fair share of petty crime — especially at night. Be careful if you’ve had a few drinks as you walk through Lisbon’s tiny alleyways.

Drug Dealers. Expect to be approached multiple times by people trying to sell you drugs. They’re harmless if you just ignore them but they are a nuisance.

Restaurant Closings. As with much of Southern Europe, many restaurants close around 2-3pm and don’t open up until around 8 pm. You can always get fast food or other simple meals available all day if you get hungry.

Quick Guide To Lisbon’s Best Neighborhoods

Bairro alto and chiado neighborhoods.

Bairro Alto (aka the Upper City) is located on one of Lisbon’s seven hills so you might want to take a trolly up to the top. Many of the buildings survived the great earthquake so it has some of the oldest buildings in the city. It’s also a very popular nightlife spot thanks to its clubs, cafes, and restaurants.

Chiado is the main shopping neighborhood so this is the place to go if you want to drop a lot of cash.

Highlights of the area include Igreja e Museu de São Roque, Museu Arquelogico do Carmo, Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporanea, and Museu do Chiado.

Alfama and São Jorge Castle Neighborhoods

Alfama is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and it’s characterized by irregular winding medieval streets and alleyways that have traditionally been the neighborhood for fishermen. It’s a very lovely neighborhood filled with cafes, restaurants, and fado music. It’s a great place to visit at night.

Towering above the Alfama is the iconic São Jorge Castle — which is also surrounded by a lot of great nightlife. Head up there for amazing city views.

Highlights include the aforementioned São Jorge Castle as well as the Sé Catedral de Lisboa, Casa dos Bicos (House of the Pointed Stones), and Museu do Fado.

Baixa Neighborhood

Baixa is the main downtown and business district of Lisbon that was completely rebuilt after the great earthquake so it looks quite different than the rest of the city. Head to the Arco da Rua Augusta for great views or simply stroll along its wide boulevards.

Highlights include Praça do Comércio, Elevador Santa Justa, Rossio Square, and Igreja do Carmo Church.

Belém  Neighborhood

A bit outside the city center is Belem — which is located on the water. It has a handful of sights but the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos and Torre de Belém are the two most popular.

Lisbon’s Must-See Sights And Attractions

Lisbon has a wealth of sights and attractions. We’ve listed a few of the favorite must-see sights.

Monastery of Jerónimos (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)

Built in the 16th century, this UNESCO-listed Monastery is one of Lisbon’s must-visit attractions. This impressive limestone monastery was built during the time when Portugal was one of the most powerful countries in the world and this site is a reminder of the country’s former status. Spend a few hours here and don’t forget to check out the tomb of Vasco da Gama.

Admission: €10. Visit Website .

São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge)

Perched proudly atop one of Lisbon’s hills you’ll find the 11th-century São Jorge Castle (aka St. George Castle). Make the hike up to this impressive castle to wander along its ramparts and take some time (and a breather) to soak in the best views of the city.

Admission: €8.50. Visit Website .

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum (Museu Calouste Gulbenkian )

If you’re going to visit one museum in Lisbon then you should visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. This impressive collection was once the private collection of Mr. Gulbenkian and he donated it to the country when he died. It features a wide range of works — from ancient Egyptian artifacts and Roman coins to works from Rembrandt, Monet, Manet, Degas, and Renoir. There is also a modern collection of works that weren’t part of Gulbenkian’s original collection but is nonetheless impressive.

Admission: €10. Visit Website .

National Ancient Art Museum (Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga)

The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga is Portugal’s National Gallary, and it’s housed in a 17th-century palace. It features 14th to 20th-century of mostly European and some Japanese works (mostly paintings but some decorative works).

Admission: €6. Visit Website .

National Tile Museum (Museu de Azulejo)

You might not think a museum about tiles would be interesting but you’d be wrong, so shame on you for thinking that. Portugal is famous for its tiles (you’ll see tile work across the country) and inside this museum, you’ll find five centuries of ceramic tiles. It’s a unique museum that you won’t find anywhere else so it’s a nice way to spend an hour or two.

Admission: €5. Visit Website .

National Coach Museum (Museu Nacional dos Coches)

First, there was the National Tile Museum and now we have the National Coach Museum — which features fancy 16th and 17th-century royal carriages. It’s worth a visit if you have the time.

Admission: €6. Visit Website .

Belém Tower (Torre de Belem)

As you may know, Portugal was once a Naval powerhouse and the Belém Tower was a fortress that guarded the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor. Now it serves as a UNESCO world heritage site and monument of Portugal’s role in discovering new lands. Climb up its 200+ stairs and you’ll be rewarded with nice waterfront views. Expect long lines as there is only one steep spiral stairway. Admission: €6. Visit Website .

Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos)

Celebrating Portugal’s Age of Discovery, the Monument to the Discoveries is an imposing monolith that’s perched over the River Tagus. The Monument to the Discoveries is located near the Belém Tower so you can’t miss it. Admission: 4. Visit Website .

Praça do Comércio (Terreiro do Paco)

The Praça do Comércio, which is often called the Terreiro do Paco, is a large public square situated on the riverfront. It’s a nice place to wander around, do some shopping, and get an (expensive) drink on a warm day.

Other Interesting Sights in Lisbon

• Maritime Museum — Learn more about Lisbon’s impressive maritime history.
• Fado Museum — Learn about the rich history of Portuguese folk music (which is still popular today).
• São Roque Church (Igreja de Sao Roque) — A modest-looking 16th-century church that has a beautifully decorated interior.
• Basílica da Estrela — Another beautiful church that contains an impressive nativity scene. You can also climb to the top of the church’s dome for amazing views of the city.
• Oceanário de Lisboa — One of the best aquariums in Europe.
• Museu Colecao Berardo — A free modern art museum.

Great Views of Lisbon

Lisbon is a city of hills so there are multiple spots with amazing views. Here are a few favorites.

• Miradouro da Senhora do Monte ( on Google Maps ) — Possibly the best views of the city. Great sunset views.
• Miradouro Sao Pedro de Alcantara ( on Google Maps ) — Excellent views and there’s a park with shady trees.
• Miradouro da Graca ( on Google Maps ) — A nice place to stop if you’re in the neighborhood.
• Elevador de Santa Justa — This slightly odd-looking elevator lifts visitors 150 feet into the air and gives visitors amazing views of Lisbon.

Take a (Free) Walking Tour

Walking tours great ways to explore and learn more about the city you’re visiting. I like to take one on my first day in a new city as I find it’s an excellent way to get my bearings and it gives me an idea of where I want to revisit.

The free walking tours are great for overviews. However, you’ll have to pay if you want a better quality guide or more specialized information (food tours, etc.).

Below is a list of the free walking tours:

• Lisbon Chill-Out Free Tour
• Pancho Free Tours
• New Europe Free Tours: Lisbon
• Discover Walks: Lisbon

If you’re looking for a paid tour we recommend checking out  Trip Advisor to find reviews .

Food & Cheap Eats in Lisbon

Food is affordable in Lisbon so eating on a budget won’t be too much of a challenge. The one thing to remember is that you’ll need to adjust your eating schedule because most restaurants close down during the afternoon and don’t open back up until around 8:00 pm.

In general, the dish of the day (pratos do dia) is a good deal if you’re trying to eat on a budget. As always, avoid places with menus in multiple languages. If nothing else, look for places with a lot of locals.

Note: some waiters will bring food/appetizers to your table that you didn’t order. You will be charged for these so refuse them if you want them.

Thanks to its proximity to the ocean, Lisbon’s cuisine heavily incorporates seafood. Bacalhau (salted cod) is the Portuguese national dish and is used for scores of traditional recipes, including stew, stir-fry, and egg dishes.

The most famous dessert in Lisbon is the  Pastel de nata — which is a Portuguese egg tart. It’s amazing. The best place to get these is at  Pastéis de Belém (every tourist visits this place but it is the best of the best). 

We’ve gathered some of our favorite online resources and food bloggers:

• Spotted By Locals: Lisbon
• Time Out: Lisbon Restaurants
• David Lebovitz: Guide to Lisbon
• Girl in Florence: Lisbon
• The Guardian: Lisbon Restaurants

Lisbon’s Nightlife

Lisbon is well-known for its nightlife — especially the  Bairro Alto  neighborhood. This neighborhood has hundreds of bars (it also attracts a fair number of pickpockets so be careful). Other solid nightlife areas include Alcântara, Parque das Nações, Santos, and the area around the castle.

Bars close around 2 am on weeknights and a bit later on the weekend. Of course, the party moves on to the nightclubs (which stay open until after the sun comes up). For clubbing and all that fun stuff, you should also check out the Docas district.

Here are some excellent guides to Lisbon’s nightclub scene: Lisbon Clubs — Go Lisbon and Time Out Lisbon.

Lisbon Beaches

Lisbon is very close to multiple beaches and many are easily reachable via public transportation. The two best beaches are  Praia Sao Pedro and  Praia de Carcavelos — both can be reached on the Lisbon-Cascais railway. There are a number of other beaches but they really only accessible by car.

Lisbon’s Hostels and Accommodation

Lisbon is a backpacker’s paradise because it has a lot of amazing hostels that are all very affordable. You should budget about €15-€20/night per person for a decent hostel — although many hostels raise their prices on the weekend. I’ve always used Hostel World  our hostels so you’ll want to poke around there to find the perfect hostel.

Here are a few of the city’s best-rated hostels:

• Lisboa Central Hostel
• Lisbon Destination Hostel
• Yes! Lisbon Hostel
• Home Lisbon Hostel
• Travellers House
• Goodmorning Lisbon Hostel
• Lost Inn Lisbon
• Goodnight Lisbon Hostel
• Living Lounge Hostel
• Lisbon Old Town Hostel
• Lisbon Poets Hostel
• Sunset Destination Hostel

Traveling Around Lisbon

Lisbon is a very beautiful city for walking — but it is hilly. If your legs start getting tired you can use Lisbon’s affordable public transport network.

Lisbon’s public transit system, CARRIS, includes buses, funiculars, and trams. The Lisbon metro is separately maintained, but transit tickets allow access to both CARRIS and the metro with the Viva Viagem card. Zapping cards allow access to multiple transit systems by storing money on the transit card. Transit fares are deducted from the card’s value when used.

Visitors to Lisbon can also purchase the LisboaCard, which offers unlimited access to the transit system and to numerous museums and attractions throughout the city. LisboaCards are available in 24/48/72 hour denominations (€18.50/€31.50/€39).

Single fare:

• One-time Viva Viagem card purchase: €0.50
• 1 CARRIS/metro fare: €1.40
• 24-hour CARRIS/metro fare: €6

Zapping cards:

• 1 bus fare (1-hour): €1.25
• 1 Metro fare (entire network/one journey): €1.25
• 1 train fare (Lisbon suburban network/2-hours): €1.80
• 1 ferry transport (river connections on the south bank, one journey): €1.12-€2.65

Airport Transportation: 

• Airport transport, 1 trip (via CARRIS local bus service or metro): €1.40
• Airport transport, 1 trip (via CARRIS AeroBus): €3.50
• Taxi from Lisbon city center to Lisbon International Airport: About €15

Bicycle rental from Bikeiberia: €5 (1-hour)/ €10 (4-hours)/ €14 (daily)

Lisbon Day Trips

You can easily spend your entire trip in Lisbon and have an amazing time but sometimes it’s nice to escape the city for a bit of peace. We’ve gathered a few of the best Lisbon day trips that are easily accessible by train. Check out my guide on How To Buy Train Tickets in Portugal and my Guide To Taking The Train in Portugal .

Sintra, which is located about a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, is one of the area’s best and most popular day trips. The city (which is nestled in the mountains) features a historic town center, a gothic National Palace, an 8-12th-century castle built by the Moors, and the colorful Pena Palace which towers above the city.

Cascais was a traditional coastal fishing town that turned into a seaside escape for Portugal’s royal family. Now it’s a popular vacation destination for visitors wanting to soak up some sun on its sandy beaches and rub shoulders with wealthy jet-setters. Getting to Cascais from Lisbon is a cheap and beautiful 30-minute train ride.

Reachable by an easy one-hour train ride, Obidos is a historic walled town that was once owned by the Queen of Portugal and it’s now one of the most picturesque towns in Portugal. Obidos is small and compact so it makes for a relaxing day trip that can easily be experienced in a few hours.

Other Random Practical Travel Tips for Lisbon

• Lisbon is hilly and has lots of cobblestones so pack comfortable shoes. Although, the view from the top of Lisbon’s many hills is worth the workout.
• The city’s proximity to the ocean means that the weather can change quickly so pack wisely.
• Don’t be surprised if you’re approached by someone selling drugs. It will happen so just ignore it.
• Check out our guide on how to travel Portugal by train to learn more about the Portugals rail network and tips for getting the best price on train tickets.

More Resources To Help You Plan Your Lisbon Visit On A Budget

I’m still a fan of ol’ fashion guidebooks as they give you a quick, easy and curated way to research your destination. If nothing else, head to the library or bookstore and spend an hour or so thumbing through a guidebook — it’s worth it. We’ve also listed a few websites/blogs that will help with your planning.

• Rick Steves Lisbon
• Lonely Planet Lisbon
• WikiVoyage: Lisbon

Packing Help + What To Wear

Packing your bag and knowing what clothes to bring shouldn’t be a huge hassle. That’s why we created our packing guides:

• Backpacking Europe Packing List For Women  – Our famous packing list that’s specifically for the ladies.
• Backpacking Europe Packing List For Men  – Our famous packing list that’s specifically for the dudes.
• Best Travel Backpacks For Europe  – We review our favorite travel backpacks, luggage, and other packing aides.
• Recent Posts
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Neighborhoods to Know

Public Transportation Guide

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Lisbon

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Beaches Near Lisbon

Lisbon's Coolest Architecture

Where to Drink Port Wine

Top Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Lisbon

Generally speaking, the best time to visit Lisbon is in the spring or fall, when the weather is warm and pleasant (with occasional rainfall in April) and hotel prices are reasonable. Summer is hot and expensive, especially in August. In winter, Lisbon is the warmest of the cities in the Iberian Peninsula. Although nights can be very chilly, temperatures don't drop below zero and there is still plenty of sunshine.

It’s not only the weather that determines the best time of year to visit Lisbon. To help you decide when to visit Lisbon, we've broken down the most important factors to consider—hotel prices, crowds, and your personal interests—month by month.

January is the coldest month in Lisbon, with temperatures between 46 and 59 degrees F.   There is a chance of rain, so be prepared and pack clothes you can layer.

Once New Year's is over, hotels often offer reduced rates and lines to major attractions around the city are definitely shorter. Take advantage of the Lisboa Card : Admission to the Torre de Belem, for example, is free with the card. It's best to get yours at the tourist office in Lisbon because buying online can be more expensive.

Events to check out:

• Concert at the Centro Cultural de Belém : Ring in the new year by enjoying classical music with the Lisbon Metropolitan Orchestra at the cultural center.
• Dia de Reis: Unlike in Spain, January 6 is not a bank holiday–nevertheless, the day is celebrated by eating Bolo-Rei, a traditional Portuguese cake.

It’s still cold in Lisbon, although the temperatures are slightly higher than in January and there is even less chance of rain.

Because it's shoulder month, this is a good time of year for sightseeing. You can find reduced prices at several hotels and lines at attractions are short. Get on one or both of the legendary tram rides, either the No. 28 or the No.12. During the high season the lines are very long, but not in February.

• Carnival : Portugal is all about Carnival, and Lisbon is no exception. Expect floats, parades, street parties, and plenty of food and drink. Some hotels even offer special packages.

It gets slightly warmer in March, with temperatures between 49 and 63 degrees F. There is also little chance of rain.

Hotel prices start to rise slightly, but Lisbon is still one of the least expensive capitals in Europe. As far as crowds and lines at attractions go, this time of year is far from busy.

• Lisboa Dance Festival: Dance to electronic, house, and techno music at this annual festival.
• ModaLisboa : This is Portugal's oldest independent Fashion Week.

It’s the beginning of spring, and average temperatures rise to 68 degrees F. You might want to pack a medium-weight jacket, though—nights are still rather cold.

Over Easter week, you will see a rise in hotel prices and growing lines at attractions. The trick is to visit either very early in the morning or as late in the day as possible. The nice weather invites visitors to explore the city and her seven hills on foot.

• Peixe em Lisboa: "Peixe" means fish in Portuguese—and that’s what this gastronomic festival is all about. All the best local and international chefs compete to present the best fish dishes.
• The Arts and Antiques Fair : an event you should not miss.
• Freedom Day: April 25 is a national holiday, celebrated with a large parade across the city.

Spring has fully arrived, with Lisbon bursting into bloom. The city sees an average high in the low 70s, although the temperature can be warmer some days. There may be an occasional shower, but generally the dry season has started.

Although hotel prices are slightly higher than in January and February, they are still lower than in the peak months of summer. Lisbon also gets more crowded this time of year.

• Indie Lisboa : This is an international, 11-day long film festival; it starts at the end of April and continues into the first week of May.
• Lisbon Under Stars: A light and music show staged in the ruins of the Carmo Convent.
• ARCO Lisboa : Fans of contemporary art will delight in ARCO Lisboa, a modern art fair and exhibition.

It’s the beginning of the high season and temperatures can reach the upper 80s. Plan to escape to the beach—the city gets very crowded.

Hotel prices rise together with the warmth and sunshine. You are well advised to look for bargains and to book early.

• Rock in Rio : This music and entertainment festival will take place in the Bella Vista Park.
• St. Anthony's Night: Also known as Arraial Lisboa Pride, June 12 is celebrated with street parties all over town. The city dresses up and so should you.
• Portugal Day: June 10 is Portugal's national holiday, so be prepared for closures.

July and August

These are the hottest months, and the sun is strong in Lisbon. Pack summer clothes, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Fortunately, a breeze from the sea makes the heat bearable.

Hotel prices are high and the crowds standing in line at attractions are huge. In July and August, there are several jazz and rock festivals in parks throughout the city. This is also a good time to go to the beach or to venture towards the mountains.

• Festival ao Largo: Enjoy classical music and ballet at this festival in Lisbon's Opera House.
• MONSTRA : Watch animated shorts and feature films at this film festival.

September and October

The worst of the heat is over, but it’s still warm and sunny; average temperatures are in the 60s. In October, there may be rain showers.

Accommodation prices start dropping and the lines at attractions are getting shorter.

• EDP Lisbon Half Marathon : Even if you aren't a runner, the Lisbon Half Marathon is a great event to watch.
• MOTEL/X : Lisbon has a reputation for hosting great film and music festivals. If you are a horror film fan, you can’t do any better than watching a screening or two at MOTEL/X.
• Santa Casa Alfama Fado Festival : Fado is a style of traditional, Portuguese folklore music. You can listen to the best Fado artists at this festival.

November is one of the wettest months, and daytime temperatures linger in the 50s.

If you hate crowds, this is a good time to go to Lisbon. Accommodation prices are at their lowest and you can get into attractions and museums without waiting in line forever.

• LEFFEST : A film festival that takes place simultaneously in Lisbon and Sintra.

The last month of the year sees rain and average temperatures in the 50s. Hotel prices are still low, with many offering special Christmas packages.

• Christmas Festivities: Enjoy sparkling Christmas lights throughout the city and visit one of several Christmas markets (the one in Rossio Square is the most popular).

The best time to visit Lisbon is during the shoulder season in either the spring or fall. Summers can be very hot and expensive and although the weather can be a bit on the cooler side in the spring and fall, there is still plenty of sunshine.

January is the coldest month in Lisbon with average high temperatures with average high temperatures of 58 degrees Fahrenheit (9 degrees Celsius) and average low temperatures of 47 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius).

Throughout the year, Portugal is generally very sunny but it does rain more often between November and December with an average 29 percent chance of rain.

Weather Spark. "Average weather in Lisbon, Portugal, Year Round." Retrieved February 15, 2021.

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The Absolute Best Time To Visit Lisbon (And The Worst Time) In 2024

Category Portugal Updated on February 14, 2024

“When is the best time to visit Lisbon?”

We get this question a lot, as we spent a month living in Lisbon as digital nomads. And here’s what we can tell you:

The best time to visit Lisbon is from March to June and September to October,  because the weather isn’t too hot or too cold, there’s fewer crowds and hotel prices are reasonable. The worst time to visit Lisbon is July and August, because it’s very hot, the crowds are huge and accommodation prices are higher during these months.

A lot of people will tell you the weather is perfect year-round in Lisbon. And that can be true – it’s relatively warm for most months and the winters in Lisbon are pretty mild.

The temperature is only one factor to consider when choosing the best time to visit Lisbon. There’s a lot of factors at play here and it can either positively or negatively affect your trip to this beautiful coastal city!

In this blog post, we are going to share the best time (and the worst time!) to visit Lisbon, 4x more factors you need to weigh up and our personal experience of the weather while living there.

Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways For The Best Time To Visit Lisbon

Why visit Lisbon , anyway? There’s lots of reasons and the weather is definitely one of them! When you are trying to plan your trip to Lisbon – the timing of when to go is one of the most important things to consider and can make or break your experience!

There’s a few factors to consider, like crowd levels, hotel prices, peak vs. low season and more. Here’s what you need to know about the best time to visit Lisbon:

• The best time to visit Lisbon is either from March to June or September to October . These months are considered the shoulder seasons where the average temperatures are around 72°F (22°C).
• Visiting in the shoulder months = cheaper hotel prices, fewer crowds and pleasant weather .
• The worst time to visit Lisbon is either from July to August or December to January . These are the hottest and coldest months in Lisbon. In the summer, it’s very hot and there are crowds on every shoreline. In the winter, it’s a tad too cold to stay outside or visit the beaches.
• Lisbon, Portugal gets an annual average of more than 300 sunny days . It doesn’t rain much, which means spring or fall are still great seasons to visit Lisbon!

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, consistently draws tourists because of its interesting history, stunning architecture and its pleasant weather year-round. Figuring out the best time to visit Lisbon can be challenging, but you simply need to decide what’s important to you.

For example, Matthew and I love visiting popular destinations during the shoulder months. Huge crowds of people tend to annoy us and we would rather have a few rainy days than deal with long lines and busy beaches.

Our best advice for choosing the best time to visit Lisbon is to figure out what you value most – warm weather vs. crowded beaches or cold weather vs. fewer crowds, to name some.

Here’s more statistics and information about the seasons, weather and events happening in Lisbon.

Quick Stats On Lisbon Weather & Seasons

Want a quick snapshot of Lisbon’s weather and seasons? You got it!

Lisbon’s weather can vary, but we’ve got the essential stats to help you plan your visit. These stats vary year to year, but this gives you a better idea of what to expect average temperature-wise. We’ve also added some other helpful stats here:

• Hottest month in Lisbon: July (74°F | 23°C)
• Coldest month in Lisbon: January (52°F | 11°C)
• Wettest month in Lisbon: December
• Driest month in Lisbon: August
• Most crowded months in Lisbon: July, August
• Least crowded months in Lisbon: December, January

One thing you should know: the whole of Europe basically goes on vacation in August. That’s when everyone takes a break – my sister lives in France and this is the norm. Most people travel to the coastal towns to get close to a beach and a lot of stores also close in August! That’s why it’s one of the busiest times to visit anywhere in Europe, including Lisbon.

The spring and fall seasons are the best times to visit Lisbon because it’s not as crowded, the hotel prices are cheaper and the weather is still pleasant. During the winter months, the country slows down as it gets colder and some activities might even close for the season, such as the sunset cruises .

That’s a quick round-up of statistics you need to know about Lisbon’s weather, seasons and crowds to help you plan your trip accordingly.

The Best Time To Visit Lisbon (When To Go Or Avoid)

Lisbon’s weather is actually pretty great year round – but it’s not perfect. There’s more to consider than simply the temperature when deciding when to visit Lisbon.

To help you plan your trip to Lisbon well, here are some questions to ask yourself so that you can choose the right time to visit:

• How much do crowds bother me – not at all, a little or a lot?
• Will I do more indoor or outdoor activities?
• Would the rain ruin my day?
• Do I want to attend events or festivals?

Now you can get a better picture of what your days in Lisbon entail and how the weather or crowds may affect your trip. But that’s not all! Here are some more things to consider:

• Hotel prices
• Water temperatures at the beach
• Peak vs. low season

Everyone has different preferences and you need to find out what works for you. For us, Matthew and I love visiting during the shoulder seasons because HUGE crowds tend to bother us. For some, crowds might not bother them and they value the guarantee of warm weather during their stay more.

It’s your trip and you’ve got to find the best time to visit Lisbon based on your preferences!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Lisbon?

The best time to visit Lisbon is during the spring (March to June) or fall (September to October) seasons. The average temperature during these months is around 74°F (23°C) which means you can enjoy the outdoors without the scorching summer heat blazing down on you.

If you visit during the shoulder months, you could also get cheaper prices for accommodation. As it’s not the high season, hotel prices are still very affordable!

One of the downsides is that it may be too cold to swim in the ocean during spring or fall. The ocean is already pretty cold throughout the year in Portugal since it’s Atlantic waters, but it’s especially cold during winter.

Best Things To Do In Lisbon During Spring/Fall Season:

• Go on a Lisbon sunset cruise and sail the Tagus River
• Take a trip to Sintra and/or many more nearby Lisbon day trip towns
• Visit the charming town of Cascais and lay on the beaches
• Go on a walking tour around the city
• Watch a movie at the outdoor cinemas in Lisbon
• Take Tram 28 (without so many other tourists)

Pros Of Visiting Lisbon During Spring/Fall Season:

• Fewer crowds around
• Shorter queues for activities and restaurants
• More affordable prices for accommodation

Cons Of Visiting Lisbon During Spring/Fall Season:

• It might rain for some days
• Some stores or activities might be closed still
• Less events and festivals happening

We think the best time to visit Lisbon is during the months of March to June and September to October. Matthew and I stayed in Lisbon for a month from September to October and the weather was still warm but there were fewer crowds around, for sure!

When we were looking for accommodation in Lisbon , September and October were noticeably cheaper than the other summer months such as July and August. Matthew and I also visited the beaches during these months and while the water wasn’t warm enough for me to swim (I’m very sensitive to cold water lol) – it was hot enough to lay on the beach all day!

When Is The Worst Time To Visit Lisbon?

The worst time to visit Lisbon is from July to August and November to February. During the summer months, this is known to be the hottest, most crowded and most expensive time to visit Lisbon . During the winter months, it’s pretty cold for Portugal (nothing like Scandinavia temperatures) and some activities or tours might shut down during this time.

One of the upsides of visiting during the height of summer is that it’s hot enough to swim in the ocean every day and there’s SO many activities on the calendar. And during the winter, you’ll enjoy walking around without constantly bumping into other tourists.

Lisbon, Portugal is a rising destination in Europe. I visited Lisbon back in 2015 and then again recently – it’s WAY more busy and packed than it used to be. Personally, we wouldn’t visit Lisbon during the height of summer (because of the crowds) or the winter (because of the cold). But sometimes, for some people, the savings can outweigh the weather – and that’s okay!

Temperature Year-Round

Lisbon weather is beautiful throughout the year. The summers are hot but the winters are mild compared to other European capital cities. The annual average temperature in Lisbon is around 68°F to 73°F (20°C to 23°C).

The chart above shows the average temperature for each month of the year. As you can see, it’s pretty consistent and pleasant all year-round for a European destination!

Sunshine Year-Round

Lisbon boasts more than 300 days of sunshine in a year. The months with the most sunshine hours (10+ per day) are June, July and August. These are also the warmest months in Lisbon with a temperature high of 78°F to 83°F (26°C to 28°C).

We were in Lisbon during September/October and the sun shined for us the entire time, even though the seasons were changing. You don’t have to worry too much about the sun shining on this city because it usually does throughout the year – even during the winter season! However, as you can see in the chart above – December does only get about 4 hours of sunshine. But that’s common for winter in some places.

Precipitation Year-Round

The rainiest months in Lisbon are November, December, January and February, with about 14 days of rain each month.

If you are visiting during these months and you’re thinking about doing lots of outdoor activities, the rain is definitely something to consider more seriously.

The 4x Weather Seasons In Lisbon, Portugal

What’s the seasons like in Portugal? Well, it’s got 4 seasons – spring, summer, fall and winter. Although the best part about Portugal is that the weather is usually pleasant throughout the year. The temperatures may fluctuate based on the seasons but it’s never too extreme!

Spring in Lisbon (April – June)

The spring season is one of the best times to visit Lisbon because it’s warm and sunny and there’s only a slight chance of rain. If you love outdoor activities, day tours or plan on sightseeing, this is the perfect time to go because it’s not too hot like in the summer or too cold in the winter to stay outside.

During the spring months of April to June, the average temperature ranges from 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C).

Summer in Lisbon (July – mid-September)

The summer is the most popular time to visit Lisbon because of the warm weather, plenty of sunshine and the endless number of activities to do like swimming in the refreshing Atlantic Ocean.

During the summer, the average temperature of July can get up to 86°F (30°C), which is very hot if you add humidity to the mix. It’s also the most crowded time in Lisbon as the August holidays generally draw crowds to Portugal.

Autumn in Lisbon (mid-September – November)

The fall season is my favorite time to visit popular destinations because there’s fewer crowds around, the weather is perfect and the prices are much more affordable. During the months of September to November, you’ll experience warm days and cool nights.

During the fall months of September to November, the average temperature ranges from 57°F to 73°F (14°C to 23°C).

Winter in Lisbon (December – February)

Lisbon, Portugal has very mild winters when compared to other European capitals. There’s fewer crowds around the city but it’s harder to stay outdoors and do sightseeing activities because of the cold.

During the winter months of December to February, the average temperature ranges from 52°F to 54°F (11°C to 12°C). There’s also a higher chance of rainfall during these months!

4x Things To Consider First Before Choosing When To Go

Choosing the right time to visit Lisbon can either make or break your trip. Before you book that trip to Lisbon for a certain date, here are 5x things to consider first:

1. Accommodation prices can change based on seasons.

That’s right, it is definitely more expensive to book hotels, hostels or Airbnbs during the peak months (July to August) in Lisbon.

2. Crowd levels can vary.

There’s bigger crowds in the summer months – especially in August, when most Europeans have a holiday break. The shorelines of the oceans in Portugal will get a little crammed. This also means longer queues for restaurants and/or activities like taking the famous Tram 28.

3. Check out events or festivals happening.

If you want to participate in local events or festivals – some popular ones are Festas de Lisboa in June or the Out Jazz Festival (weekends from May to September). September and October are when most film festivals occur too!

4. Spending your days at the beach.

If you want to swim in the ocean, I’ll be the one to tell you: it’s freezing no matter when you go. A lot say it’s because it’s the Atlantic Ocean, which means it’s easier to swim when it’s 86°F (30°C) outside. Otherwise, if you plan on swimming during the fall/winter months – it’s more like a polar plunge! Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating a little, but that’s what it can feel like.

These are just some factors to consider as you’re deciding the best time to visit Lisbon, Portugal. The crowds are definitely a big factor for us, but for others, it can be the accommodation prices. The most important thing is that you choose the best time for you and the kind of activities you want to do.

Conclusion: When Is The Best Time To Visit Lisbon?

The best time to visit Lisbon is from March to June and September to October because the weather is pleasant, there’s fewer crowds (compared to summer months) and accommodation prices are affordable. These are considered the shoulder months and it’s our favorite time to visit any popular destination!

The worst time to visit Lisbon is from July to August and November to February. During the summer months, you have the biggest crowds and the highest hotel prices. If you visit during the winter, it’s much colder so it’s harder to do outdoor activities and some tours may even close during the low season. The upside is that it is much cheaper to book accommodation during winter and there’s really no crowds either!

In conclusion, the best time to visit Lisbon really depends on your wants, needs, preferences and itinerary! However, the spring and fall seasons are ideal times that strike a good balance between pleasant weather, affordable accommodation and fewer crowds.

Whenever you decide to go, Lisbon is one of the best European cities and you will enjoy yourself regardless! We hope you have a great time visiting this capital city like we did.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Time To Visit Lisbon, Portugal

Got questions about the best time to visit Lisbon…or the worst time? Here’s some answers to popular questions about Lisbon:

When Is The Busiest Time Of Year In Lisbon?

The busiest month in Lisbon is August. It has the highest number of tourists because it’s the holiday time for Europeans. It’s also the peak of summer which draws tourists from all over to explore this capital city, making it extra busy!

When Is High Season In Lisbon?

High season in Lisbon is from June to August. The prices for accommodation tend to be higher, there’s bigger crowds of people and activities get sold out quickly.

When Is Low Season In Lisbon?

Low season in Lisbon is from December to February. These are the coldest months of the year and this is good news for travelers willing to brave the cold (it’s honestly a pretty mild winter). Low season means cheaper accommodation and fewer crowds if you want a more relaxed experience touring Lisbon.

Is Lisbon Better In Summer Or Winter?

Summer is the most popular time to visit Lisbon because it’s hot and it’s the perfect time to visit the beach. Winter gets fewer crowds and it is typically cheaper to book hotels, hostels or Airbnbs. It depends on your preference and Lisbon travel goals as to whether you prefer warm or cold weather or if you can deal with the crowds around.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Visit Lisbon?

The cheapest month to visit Lisbon is typically December or January because it’s the coldest time of the year.

What Is The Coldest Month Of The Year In Lisbon?

January is generally the coldest month in Lisbon – temperatures get as low as 52°F (11°C).

Most Popular Time to Visit Lisbon?

The most popular time to visit Lisbon for tourists is during the summer months of June to August.

Least Crowded Time to Visit Lisbon?

The least crowded time to visit Lisbon is the winter months. If you don’t want to brave the cold, the spring and fall are also less crowded than during the summer months.

How Many Days In Lisbon Is Enough?

We recommend 3-4 days to tour Lisbon fully, especially if it’s your first time visiting this city. This gives you enough time to take in the city’s atmosphere, taste the delicious food, sightsee all the cool landscapes and get to know the wonderful culture.

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Lisbon Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Situated along the south of the country’s west coast, Lisbon ( Lisboa in Portuguese) boasts an incredible mix of museums, historic buildings, eclectic music, a wild nightlife, charming plazas, and laid-back cafés where you can watch the world go by.

In recent years, Lisbon has become a lot more popular thanks to its inexpensive cost of living and lovely year-round weather. While it’s not the hidden gem it used to be (there’s a growing expat and digital nomad community here now), I don’t think it’s lost its magic — especially if you visit during the shoulder season when the weather is still great and the crowds have thinned out.

This Lisbon travel guide will give you everything you need to plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this underrated European capital!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Lisbon

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Lisbon

1. Walk around the Old Town

Alfama, the historic area of Lisbon, is filled with narrow, winding streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. The name, meaning “hot springs,” comes from the Moors who conquered here in the 8th century. To learn more about this neighborhood, take a walking tour . Tours last 2.5 hours and are a great intro to the city and its iconic sights.

2. See the Belem Tower

Built in 1515, this tower was used as both a fortress and a lighthouse during the height of Portuguese power in the Age of Discovery. Situated on the northern bank of the Tagus River, the tower stands 30 meters (98 feet) and has 4 stories. It’s been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983 and is open for self-guided tours where you can wander the halls, peek out the various portholes, and visit the pit where prisoners were kept. Admission is 9 EUR.

3. Walk through the Jardim Botanico

This massive 10-acre garden is a haven from the hustle and bustle of the city. Completed in 1873, it’s home to some 18,000 species of plants, including plants from New Zealand, China, Australia, Japan, South America, and more. It’s one of the best green spaces in Lisbon and perfect for relaxing. Admission is 2 EUR.

4. Hit the beaches

Lisbon has several beaches that are perfect for soaking in the city’s beautiful summer weather. Some of the best beaches are Guincho (best swimming area and good waves for surfing), Meco (peaceful atmosphere), Tamariz (easy to reach from the city center; good for kids), and Morena (has a fun vibe). Just be sure to get there early in the summer as the beaches get busy fast!

5. Explore St. George’s Castle

St. George (São Jorge) Castle is a massive medieval castle overlooking Lisbon. Fortifications on the hill date back as far as the 1st century BCE though the current castle dates to the Middle Ages. It was damaged during various earthquakes and more or less abandoned for centuries until the 1930s when it was finally restored and renovated. Today, you can tour the castle and the towers (they offer a beautiful view of the city) and visit the small archeological museum inside. There is also a small garden you can relax in as well as a restaurant. Admission is 10 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Lisbon

1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do in a new destination is to take a free walking tour. They’re the best way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. New Europe is my go-to free walking tour company as their tours are detailed and their guides know their stuff. They’re the best way to see the city on a budget. Just be sure to tip at the end!

2. See the Berardo Collection Museum

The Berardo Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art has a wide selection of works by Warhol, Picasso, Dali, Duchamp, Bacon, Pollock, and many other masters. Its permanent and temporary exhibits have works representing dozens of modern movements from the past century. While I’m not a huge fan of modern or contemporary art, this is an excellent museum if you are. Admission is 5 EUR and free on Saturdays. Audio guides are 3.5 EUR.

3. Ride the “elevator”

For a sweeping view of Lisbon’s skyline, ride the Elevador de Santa Justa . It’s a century-old elevator located in the city that connects to a 45-meter-tall viewing platform. The elevator was originally steam-powered and offers a gorgeous view of the city. It has a small restaurant at the top where you can eat too. A ride costs 5.15 EUR but you can access the viewpoint (without a ride) for 1.50 EUR.

4. Visit the Praça do Comércio

Commerce Square is Lisbon’s biggest and most popular square. Located along the riverfront, it’s the former location of the royal palace (which was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1755). Two marble columns from the palace are still standing and the square is now home to lots of small shops. The people-watching here — when accompanied with a book or some refreshing gelato — is excellent.

5. Check out Sé de Lisboa Cathedral

Constructed on the grounds of a former mosque, this Roman Catholic cathedral was built to celebrate the defeat of the Moors in the mid-1100s (a conflict that came about after a failed Crusade to the Holy Land). It’s been partially rebuilt over the years due to earthquakes and is now an amalgamation of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. While I’m not a huge fan of 12th-century Romanesque construction, the cathedral was very peaceful and beautiful. Be sure to dress appropriately as it is a place of worship. It’s free to enter.

6. Ride the trams

To get a sense of what life in Lisbon was like in the 20th century, hop on one of the yellow “Remodelado” trams. These old-fashioned trams are a fun way to explore the city and see the historic Old Town. While the city also has modern trams, enjoying the charm of the old-fashioned trams is a cheap and easy way to add some character to your visit.

7. See a Fado show

Fado is a local type of music that originated in Lisbon. It’s a rather haunting, mournful style often focused on the hardships of the poor or life at sea. The music first appeared in the 19th century and was popular with the working class (especially sailors). The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, which is why many of the songs focus on the inevitability of misfortune and suffering. While melancholic, the music is also beautiful and poetic. To enjoy some traditional fado music, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

8. Visit the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see when visiting Portugal’s capital. The monastery took over 100 years to build and was designed in the Manueline style (also known as Late Portuguese Gothic). The monks were primarily involved with helping sailors and mariners who anchored offshore, which is why there are many maritime designs and influences in the architecture. While it is no longer an active monastery, you can still tour the massive buildings and grounds. Admission is 10 EUR.

9. Check out the Discoveries Monument

The Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) was inaugurated in 1960 during celebrations of the 500-year anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator (an important figure in the early Portuguese Empire). At 52 meters tall, it depicts Henry holding a small caravel alongside other heroes of Portuguese history. The monument is shaped like a ship’s bow and projects out above the water across the Tagus River. Within the monument is a museum with small historical and cultural exhibitions. On the seventh floor, you can look out to the Atlantic. Admission is 6 EUR.

10. Tour Batalha Monastery

Batalha is a town located just 90 minutes by car from Lisbon. The town is home to Batalha Monastery, officially known as the Monastery of Saint Mary of the Victory. Built in 1388, it’s one of Europe’s greatest Gothic masterpieces and makes for a popular day trip from Lisbon. The monastery took 131 years to build and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through the gigantic gothic doorway and seeing the towering interior (which is lined with 16th-century stained-glass windows) is absolutely breathtaking. Admission is 6 EUR, but you can also purchase a combo ticket to see The Convent of Christ in Tomar and The Abbey of Santa Maria for 15 EUR.

11. Enjoy a pastéis de nata

This delicious custard-filled pastry is a Portuguese staple. You can find them all over the city. They’re traditionally served warm and with cinnamon, paired with a coffee or hot drink. If you’re looking for an authentic experience, check out Pastelaria Versailles. They’ve been around since the 1920s and make some of the best in the city.

12. Take a day trip to Sintra

Lord Byron, writing in the 18th century, said that Sintra was “perhaps in every respect the most delightful [place] in Europe.” If you are visiting Lisbon, be sure to visit Sintra. It’s a wonderful town with cobblestone streets and traditional painted buildings filled with family-run cafes and unique shops. Wander the town on foot and check out the historic town hall, the bustling shopping street of Rua das Padarias, and the church of Igreja de Santa Maria (which dates to the 15th century and is a National Monument). Don’t miss the brightly colored Pena Palace and the Moors Castle. They offer wonderful views of the city. The train from Lisbon takes about 40 minutes and costs less than 5 EUR. If you’d rather take a tour, full-day tours with Tugatrips Tours cost around 65 EUR.

13. Visit MAAT

The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology is one of Lisbon’s newest museums. Its mission is to showcase contemporary artists, architects, and thought leaders via traditional exhibits and workshops while also revitalizing the waterfront neighborhood. They have rotating exhibits on music, philosophy, contemporary art, and much more. The building is a massive and futuristic-looking structure located beside an old industrial power plant (which you can also tour). Admission is 9 EUR and there is free admission on the first Sunday of the month.

14. Take a food tour

To learn more about the history and culture behind Lisbon’s cuisine, take a food tour. It’s the best way to eat your way around the city sampling the best eats Lisbon has to offer while learning what makes the cuisine unique. Devour Tours runs in-depth food tours led by expert local guides that will introduce you to the food culture and its history. If you’re a foodie like me who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, this tour is for you! Tours from 79 EUR.

  For more information on other cities in Portugal, check out these guides:

• Lagos Travel Guide
• Porto Travel Guide

Lisbon Travel Costs

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside of the city. A basic plot for one person without electricity starts at 12 EUR in the off-season and 20 EUR in the summer.

Budget hotel prices – Two-star budget hotels start around 65-85 EUR per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, and coffee/tea makers.

Airbnb is also available around Lisbon, with prices for an entire apartment starting at 70 EUR per night (but averaging more than double that). Private rooms start around 30 EUR but average closer to 70 EUR.

Food – Fish and seafood form the backbone of Portuguese cuisine (Portugal eats the most seafood per capita in Europe). Cod, sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines), sea bass, and shellfish are some of the most common staples. Other popular dishes include cozido à portuguesa (boiled stew), peixinhos da horta (breaded and fried vegetables), and cured ham. Be sure to also try the prego (beef sandwich) or the bifana (pork sandwich). You can find them at local cafes for just 5 EUR.

If you want a traditional meal with drinks at a casual restaurant, you’re looking at spending around 20-25 EUR (prices are higher in the touristy downtown area). Outside downtown, there are many local places where you can find meals for around 10-15 EUR.

A basic fast-food meal (think McDonald’s) costs around 7 EUR while a large pizza starts around 12 EUR. Chinese food costs 10-15 EUR for a main dish.

Beer is around 3 EUR while a latte/cappuccino costs around 2 EUR. Bottled water is less than 1 EUR.

For a week’s worth of groceries, expect to pay 35-45 EUR. That includes basic staples like pasta, vegetables, fruit, bread, cheese, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Lisbon Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Lisbon for around 50 EUR per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in a hostel dorm room, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and sticking to free activities like free walking tours, enjoying the beaches, and exploring the Old Town. If you plan on drinking, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 130 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat at cheap local restaurants and cook some meals, use public transportation and take the occasional taxi, visit paid attractions like the botanic gardens and Belem Tower, and enjoy some drinks at the bar.

On a “luxury” budget of 240 EUR or more a day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink what you want, rent a car to explore the region, and visit as many museums and attractions as you’d like. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — you can easily spend more if you really want to splash out!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Lisbon Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Lisbon is the most expensive city in the country — but it’s still quite affordable compared to other European capitals. It’s hard to spend a ton here unless you are splashing out. If you find cheap accommodation, cook most of your meals, and stick to mostly free activities, you’re going to be able to keep your budget intact. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Lisbon:

• Pick up a Lisbon Card – If you’re planning to visit lots of attractions, get the Lisbon Card. It offers free or discounted entry to several attractions as well as unlimited public transportation. Prices start at 21 EUR for a 24-hour card and there is also a 48-hour card for 35 EUR and a 72-hour card for 44 EUR.
• Get a bus pass – If you don’t get the Lisbon Card but still plan on using a lot of public transportation, buy a day pass. They are just 6.45 EUR and will save you a lot of money if you’re using public transportation often.
• Take a free walking tour – If you want to understand more about the history, architecture, and culture of Lisbon then take a free walking tour. They usually last a couple of hours and are a great introduction to the city. Just be sure to tip your tour guide at the end!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on accommodation in Lisbon. By staying with a local you’ll not only save money but you’ll get to spend time with someone who can show you the city’s hidden gems and teach you more about the culture and history of Lisbon. Just be sure to send your requests early in the summer!
• Skip the taxis – Taxis are expensive, often adding fees for luggage and airport pickups. Simply use the metro or bus to get where you need to. You’ll save a ton.
• Say “no” to bread – When eating out, you’ll often be offered bread and olives. They will be brought to your table before your meal. These aren’t free, so politely decline the offer if you’re not interested in paying for them.
• Use BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing app you can use to travel in between cities. It’s faster than the bus and usually just as cheap. You’ll have to find a ride, which can sometimes be hit or miss, but the profiles are verified and reviewed so it’s quite safe. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with other locals/travelers.
• Visit the Berardo Collection Museum on Saturdays – Tourists can get a glimpse of Portuguese businessman Jose Berardo’s personal collection of contemporary art, which makes up the permanent exhibits at the museum. Even if you aren’t a fan of contemporary art, the building itself is great to walk through. The museum is free on Saturdays.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Lisbon has lots of hostels. In fact, it’s one of the best cities in the world for hostels. Here are my suggested places to stay in Lisbon:

• Lookout! Lisbon Hostel
• Lisboa Central Hostel
• Yes! Lisbon Hostel
• Home Lisbon Hostel

How to Get Around Lisbon

There are two tram lines in the city: the modern Siemens “Articulado” trams and the historic “Remodelado” trams. Trams cost 1.50 EUR.

The metro offers a fast way to get from one corner of the city to another. There are four lines and 56 stations. They are very accessible and the information and maps are provided in English so it’s easy to navigate. Prices are the same as the tram and bus.

Taxi – Taxis in Lisbon start at 3.50 EUR and increase 0.50 EUR for every kilometer traveled. Most drivers speak English but showing them the address on your smartphone will help. If you’re on a budget, skip the taxis. They get expensive fast!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Lisbon but it’s not much cheaper than the taxis. Bolt and FreeNow are two other ridesharing apps that are usually cheaper than Uber, but I’d still skip ridesharing altogether if you’re on a budget.

Bike rental – If you’re an avid cyclist who likes a challenge, then biking in Lisbon can be fun. For the non-cyclist, it will likely be unpleasant. The city is filled with steep hills and cobblestone streets — hardly ideal for a leisurely ride. Bike rentals start at 10 EUR for a half-day and go up to 25 EUR for a full day. You can also try Gira, the city’s bike-sharing system (you can buy a 24-hour pass for just 2 EUR).

Car rental – You won’t need to rent a car to get around the city as public transportation is reliable and efficient. If you plan to go on a day trip, you can rent a car to have more flexibility. It will be more expensive than taking the bus or train but will give you more freedom. Expect to pay 30-40 EUR per day for a small rental car. Drivers need to be at least 21 years old.

When to Go to Lisbon

Peak season in Lisbon is during the summer months of June-August. Temperatures during that time soar to 25-30°C (77-86°F). This is also the busiest time to visit the city so expect crowds and slightly higher prices. The overall atmosphere during this time is lively and there are lots of places to swim or relax on the beach so it’s still worth visiting during peak season.

If you’re on a budget, the best time to visit Lisbon is during the shoulder season. April-May and September-October are still warm so you can enjoy the outdoors without as many crowds. Temperatures hover between 12-25°C (53-77°F) during these months. It may be a bit rainy, but you can still enjoy the city without much inconvenience.

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold, and tourist crowds thin out considerably. Temperatures vary but hover around 10°C (50°F). It’s still warmer than much of Europe, so if you’re on the continent and are looking to avoid the worst of the weather, head to Lisbon (or even further south to Faro).

How to Stay Safe in Lisbon

Lisbon is very safe for travelers — including solo female travelers. Violent attacks here are uncommon and petty crime is rare. Pickpocketing is the most common crime so just be aware of your surroundings when you’re in busy markets or when using public transportation and always keep your valuables secure and out of reach.

Young backpackers may be approached and offered drugs as Portugal has decriminalized drug use. However, selling drugs is not legal and there are still consequences so simply decline the offer politely but firmly and continue on.

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the city but read this article on common travel scams to avoid if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (always keep an eye on your drink when at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

The emergency number in Lisbon is 112.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Lisbon Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Lisbon Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Portugal and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Lagos, Portugal

The Best Walking Tours in Lisbon

Where to Stay in Lisbon: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 9 Best Hostels in Lisbon

When Three Days Is Not Enough Time

Lisbon: Even Better the Second Time

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Best Time to Visit Lisbon: Month-by-Month Guide

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on April 3, 2024

One of the oldest cities in the world, Portugal’s charming capital Lisbon is full of fascinating monuments, museums, and monasteries. Spread across seven hills, its steep cobbled streets and atmospheric-old neighborhoods are loads of fun to explore.

Also known for its lively nightlife and fabulous Fado music, it is visited by countless millions each year. While the vast majority head here in summer when the days are hottest, both its sunny spring and autumn months are also lovely times to stop by.

To help you plan your trip, let’s now take a look month-by-month at its climate, crowds, and cultural events. This will help you decide when is best to visit Lisboa based on your budget and what’s going on.

What’s the Weather Like in Lisbon?

Set at the mouth of the Tagus River alongside the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon’s climate is heavily influenced by the Gulf Stream. As such, the coastal city has warm to hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters.

In July and August, temperatures average 28°C (82°F) with their long days being sunny and a little humid. Aside from sightseeing, people use these hottest months to go sunbathing or swimming at its nearby beaches. Due to its setting by the ocean, its weather can be a bit windy and change fast, particularly in spring, autumn, and winter. During the latter months, temperatures drop to around 15°C (59°F) with it also raining for 14 days on average.

Best months to visit Lisbon

As the city is pretty packed in summer, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are often considered the best times to visit. A bit cooler but still warm, dry, and sunny, March through May and September and October are great for both sightseeing and being outdoors.

Hotel prices and flights are also more affordable during these periods and its sights, streets, and squares are less clogged. Lots of exciting events take place with all its blooming flowers or colourful trees’ leaves only adding to Lisbon’s beauty.

June, July, and August are when the capital is at its most crowded as the weather is hot, the days are sunny and people have summer holidays. There is a very vibrant feel as all kinds of fun festivals go on and visitors flock to its beaches, museums, and nightlife spots.

Lisbon in January

One of the quietest months tourist-wise, January is also one of the coldest, rainiest times in Lisbon. The weather is often quite unpredictable so wet, cloudy, chilly days (or even weeks!) can be followed by bright blue skies and sunshine. While it’s not a great time to visit Sintra or Cascais, sightseeing should be fine as there are fewer people around.

As Christmas and New Year’s are over, prices are way cheaper with the weather usually still much warmer than most of Northern Europe. If the sun is shining, you can see Belem Tower, Sao Jorge Castle, and Jeronimos Monastery with barely anyone around.

Lisbon in February

While February is just as rainy as January, its days are at least a bit longer and warmer with more tourists visiting as a result. As it is still the off-season though, both its accommodation options and airfares are very reasonable.

Although its skies can be a bit grey and drizzly, you should still have a nice time wandering about its old Alfama District or around the Praca do Comercio. Make sure to layer up though and take an umbrella with you. Lisbon’s colourful carnival celebrations also help to brighten up things a bit.

Lisbon in March

As spring is in the air and the Easter crowds are yet to arrive, March is often a magnificent month to explore Lisbon . Average temperatures rise to 18°C (64°F) with it also raining a lot less. With 7 hours of sunshine and 12 of daylight per day, there’s more than enough time to stroll about all its steep streets and sprawling squares.

Both flights and hotels are still not expensive though as relatively few people visit compared with later in the year. While the weather can turn windy and wet quite quickly, it’s not a bad time to take day trips to historic cities like Evora and Fatima. Lisbon Fashion Week is a huge draw as all the latest looks and trends are modeled on its catwalks.

Lisbon in April

April sees prices shoot up along with the crowds as tons of people head here for the Easter holidays. As the winter rains subside and all the flowers and trees begin to bloom, it’s a lovely time to amble about all its historic, hilly neighborhoods. Some of its main sights and places like Sintra will be pretty busy though.

Other than sampling delicious local dishes at its Fish and Flavours Festival, you can listen to enchanting choirs and classical concerts at The Days of Music in Belem. Besides stopping by its beautiful botanical gardens, the good weather means you can enjoy some sublime views over the city. The Lisbon Half Marathon also goes on if you fancy a challenge!

Lisbon in May

May is even better weatherwise as the days are longer, sunnier, and warmer. With averages hovering around the low 20s (roughly 70°F), plenty of people start to visit its nearby beach towns like Cascais, Setubal, and Sesimbra. Although prices remain higher, they are still much cheaper than the teeming summer months.

Definitely one of the best months to visit, Lisbon in May has a wonderful lively feel without it yet being too busy. Some great events also take place like the IndieLisboa Film Festival and its summer-long series of Out Jazz concerts. As only a little rain falls, you can wander about Lisbon Zoo and peruse the Feira da Ladra flea market without worrying about getting wet.

Lisbon in June

As fun events seem to take place almost every day in June, an excited buzz reigns over the city the entire month. As well as parties and parades for Pride and Portuguese National Day, there is the hugely popular Rock in Rio music festival going on. With average temperatures now hitting 25°C (77°F), you can either sightsee or sunbathe and swim, depending on what you prefer.

Although it is not quite yet peak season, prices are higher and there are large crowds at its main tourist sites and museums. Colourful decorations, concerts, and street parties are also held over the first two weeks for its traditional Popular Saints’ Festivals. In addition, you can listen to superb chamber music performances at the Festival de Sintra’s picturesque palaces and gardens.

Lisbon in July

Along with August, July is the hottest, busiest month of the year in Lisbon. With 11 hours of sunshine a day, conditions couldn’t be better for lounging on the beach at Cascais or walking along the rocky promontories at Cabo Da Roca. Their sands and trails will be pretty packed, however, as vast crowds descend upon the capital and its scenic surroundings.

As everyone is on holiday, prices for flights and hotels are much more expensive. Queues also form at trendy restaurants and top tourist attractions like Jeronimos Monastery and the Santa Justa Elevator. The sweltering temperatures can also make sightseeing a bit tiring and sticky, particularly when clambering up its steep streets. Lots of cool music festivals are held though such as Super Bock Super Rock, the Sumol Summer Fest, and COOLJAZZ.

Lisbon in August

August is even more crowded and expensive with the whole center of the city thronging with people. More local areas are almost deserted though as most Lisboetas head off on holiday themselves, to either the countryside or the Algarve. Its hotels, restaurants, and museums will be very full as will nearby beaches and towns like Sintra and Estoril.

Although hot and humid, gentle sea breezes and the narrow, shady streets of its historic-old neighborhoods should provide some respite from the sun. Numerous exhibitions and music shows are put on along its riverfront for the Festival dos Oceanos. The Jazz em Agosto and Paredes de Coura festivals also attract loads of music lovers.

Lisbon in September

Once the summer holidays are over and the kids are back in school, September is a calmer, cheaper month to visit Lisbon. While still very popular, the prices for both hotels and flights fall considerably. Averages of 27°C (so 80°F) are still amazing for relaxing on the beach or exploring Sao Jorge Castle and seeing the Cristo Rei Statue.

While the days start to shorten, there are still roughly 9 hours of sunshine to amble about in with the weather remaining mostly dry. At the end of the month, you just have to check out the Santa Casa Alfama Festival. For two days, the fabulous sound of Fado rings out around the already atmospheric neighborhood, with many of the nation’s top singers performing.

Lisbon in October

Along with spring and September, October is one of the best months of the year to visit the cool capital. With fewer people around, you can admire both Belem Tower and its Monument to the Discoveries before heading to enjoy Bairro Alto’s lively nightlife scene. It does start to rain a bit more though with only a couple of days being suitable for the beach.

Before the weather worsens, it’s not a bad time to take day trips to popular destinations like Sintra , Obidos, and Alcobaca. Back in Lisbon, the Museum Gulbenkian and Time Out Market should also be less crowded. Other than seeing all its main tourist sights, you can take part in the Lisbon Marathon or watch screenings for the DocLisboa Film Festival.

Lisbon in November

While average temperatures of 18°C (64°F) are really not all that bad, the number of people visiting Lisbon drops dramatically in November. It is one of the rainiest months though with there now also being just 5 hours of sunshine and 10 of daylight a day. As such, you’ll want to take a light jacket and umbrella around with you when sightseeing.

The lower prices and crowds make it a decent enough month to visit, though its 13 days of rain can make clambering up slippy cobbled streets quite challenging. Aside from spending time in Ajuda National Palace or the Museu Coleção Berardo, visitors can watch all the latest releases at the Lisboa Film Festival. Its Web Summit also attracts all the world’s largest tech companies and leading speakers to town.

Lisbon in December

Although it is one of the coldest, wettest, darkest months of the year in Lisbon, December is still much better here than most of the rest of Europe. While quite rainy, mild temperatures mean you can see its sights and museums without having to wear a huge coat. Lovely lights and Christmas decorations are also strung up about its main streets and squares.

While prices rise around the holidays, hotels and flights are still much more affordable than in the summer months. Besides exploring its Christmas markets, you can spend time indoors at its National Azulejo Museum or Fado Museum. Spectacular fireworks displays and music shows are also held at Praca do Comercio and Parque das Nacoes for New Year’s Eve.

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Cost of a Trip to Lisbon, PT & the Cheapest Time to Visit Lisbon

The average price of a 7-day trip to Lisbon is $1,379 for a solo traveler, $2,477 for a couple, and $4,643 for a family of 4 . Lisbon hotels range from $55 to $253 per night with an average of $111, while most vacation rentals will cost $190 to $420 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Lisboa Airport ( LIS ) are between $706 and $1,080 per person for economy flights and $2,215 to $3,389 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $43 to $77 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Lisbon, PT

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to LIS and stay in a Lisbon hotel:

• January 1st to April 1st
• April 30th to May 13th
• October 1st to December 16th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Lisbon is usually late January and early February .

Average Lisbon Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Lisbon for a week is $1,096-$2,091 ($157-$299 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $43 to $77 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $393 to $940 for economy

Lodging : $67 to $95 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $84 to $102 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Lisbon for a week is $2,416-$3,850 ($345-$550 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $86 to $154 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $786 to $1,880 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Lisbon for a week is $3,580-$7,056 ($511-$1,008 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $172 to $308 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,572 to $3,760 for economy

Lodging : $134 to $190 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $134 to $163 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Lisbon

How cheap can you make a vacation to Lisbon? The cheapest trip to Lisbon is about $95 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $21 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $44.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Lisbon for a week is $666-$1,571 ($95-$224 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $21 to $43 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $44 to $55 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $21 to $41 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Lisbon for a week is $1,206-$2,812 ($172-$402 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $42 to $86 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Lisbon for a week is $2,364-$5,624 ($338-$803 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $84 to $172 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $88 to $110 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $34 to $57 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is harder to travel to Lisbon cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Lisbon Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Lisbon.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Lisbon for a week is $2,633-$9,282 ($376-$1,326 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $90 to $154 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,175 to $2,660 for first class

Lodging : $138 to $253 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $420 to $924 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Lisbon for a week is $4,438-$13,020 ($634-$1,860 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $180 to $308 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,350 to $5,320 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Lisbon for a week is $8,876-$23,820 ($1,268-$3,403 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $360 to $616 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,700 to $10,640 for first class

Lodging : $276 to $506 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $588 to $1,478 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Lisbon Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Lisbon is higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Lisbon due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Lisbon Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Lisbon hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Lisbon.

Flight Costs to Lisbon

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,080 average in early August to a low of $706 in late January and early February. Median flight price is $874. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Lisbon our data includes 369 originating airports, and 180 airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Lisbon from an airport like Stewart International ( SWF ) in Newburgh/Poughkeepsie, NY (the United States) for an average $12,249 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Adolfo Suarez Madrid Barajas ( MAD ) in Madrid (Spain) at an average of just $80.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Lisbon, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $374, so you can easily save about 53% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Lisbon can easily cost $320 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $21 per person. Private tours can cost $643 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Lisbon Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Lisbon, Portugal
• Belem, Portugal
• Almada, Portugal
• Amadora, Portugal
• Seixal, Portugal
• Queluz, Portugal
• Oeiras, Portugal
• Loures, Portugal
• Alcochete, Portugal
• Vila Franca de Xira, Portugal

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• San Francisco, CA, US
• Protaras, Cyprus
• Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

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When Is the Best Time To Visit Lisbon, Portugal

Best time to visit lisbon: seasonal weather guide.

A charming and bustling European capital city, it’s no surprise that Lisbon, Portugal has exploded in popularity as a dream vacation destination in recent years. No matter what season – from January to December – sun-soaked Lisbon is alive with activity and special offerings. Specifically, the capital city hosts a whole variety of cultural events, popular festivities, and exciting nightlife that is sure to keep every traveler entertained as they visit Lisbon. Summer is the most popular - and the most crowded -  time of year to visit, as tourists and locals alike flock to Lisbon’s stunning beaches and alluring coastline. Visitors who choose the late spring or early autumn for their travel to Lisbon will encounter far fewer crowds, better hotel rates, and mild weather. 

So, when exactly should you plan your visit? As with any destination, there are pros and cons to traveling to Lisbon in every season. Here’s what you can expect from each:

- Discover the Best of Lisbon in Summer: Festivals, Beaches & Sunshine

Every season has its charm for visiting Lisbon, yet summer shines as the warmest and most favored time to explore the picturesque capital of Portugal. With average temperatures soaring to 28ºC (82ºF) and occasionally spiking to 35ºC (95ºF), the city basks in the heat, while the nearby Atlantic offers a refreshing contrast, maintaining a cooler 14ºC to 22ºC (57ºF to 71ºF). From June to September, Lisbon's beaches become a haven for sun-seekers. The coastal areas near the city provide a cooler escape with gentle sea breezes, offering beachgoers stunning stretches of white sand, azure waters, lively boardwalks with outdoor cafes, and captivating views, making it an idyllic spot for those who love to spend their days by the sea.

Start your beach discovery journey by heading to Costa Vicentina, often referred to as the Algarve of Lisbon, where you will get a taste of the South of Portugal at a much more affordable rate than the bit more pricey Algarve! While you’re at the beach, be sure to treat yourself to an iconic Portugal summer snack, “Bolas de Berlim” (delicious doughy balls filled with sweet egg cream and covered in sugar).

Also worthy of note for your summer travel to Lisbon and Portugal are the famous celebrations of the Santos Populares de Lisboa, which take place during the first 2 weeks of June. During this incredible and momentous festival, the whole city comes alive and gathers to honor St. Anthony, Lisbon’s patron saint. The energy is indescribable as locals and visitors alike gather in the city’s oldest neighborhoods - Alfama, Graça, Bica, Mouraria, and Madragoa.

- Spring & Early Autumn in Lisbon: Mild Weather and Fewer Crowds

Visiting Lisbon in spring or early autumn offers the added advantage of fewer tourists, leading to more competitive hotel prices and the likelihood of snagging incredible last-minute deals. During these seasons, Lisbon's calendar is brimming with events ranging from indie film festivals to prestigious international fashion shows, enriching your stay with unforgettable experiences. Moreover, you can secure a place at Lisbon Fashion Week , a glamorous event paralleling the high-profile fashion extravaganzas of NYC, London, Paris, and Milan, and witness the latest trends first-hand.

You can also check out the EDP Lisbon Half Marathon and Lisbon Eco Marathon, for those who’d like to combine their Lisbon vacation with sports activities. Looking for more ideas as you visit Lisbon? Make your way to Lisbon Fish and Flavors , where foodies can learn all about the culinary arts through cooking classes and cooking presentations hosted by Portugal's top chefs. More fun follows with the Belem Days of Music Festival, a classical music festival that is literally music to your ears! And for film fans? The Indie Lisboa is an independent film festival that is the pride of the capital city and brings together the best independent cinema from all across the world. Want even more amazing things from throughout the globe? Check out the Lisbon International Music Network, an event that floods the capital city of Portugal with pop, rock, soul, and electronic music for one weekend every Spring. 

- Visiting Lisbon in Winter & Late Autumn

Despite not being a traditional winter beach destination, Lisbon boasts Europe's mildest winter weather, making it ideal for those escaping colder climates from places like Northern Europe or North America. With temperatures rarely falling below 46ºF, the city offers a mix of sunny and wet days, with the brightest days often being the coolest. Lisbon's diverse attractions ensure you're well-entertained in any weather, perfect for cultural exploration and cozy hot chocolate moments. It's also a prime time for excellent travel deals to Portugal.

So, if you happen to be in town during the winter, here are some recommendations on how to spend a fun day:

• Visit the Oceanário de Lisboa for family fun;
• Ride tram number 28 ;
• Visit one of many interesting museums scattered around Lisbon, Portugal, such as the Calouste Gulbenkian, the National Tile Museum, or even the Fado Museum;
• Go for a bite at the Time Out Market;
• Go on a shopping spree at Colombo Mall , Amoreiras, El Corte Inglés, and many more shopping options;
• Enjoy an authentic Lisbon fado show ;
• Visit the famed and historic Mosteiro dos Jerónimos;
• Brave an exhilarating escape-room experience with your friends;
• Head to the LX Factory for an afternoon of eating, drinking, and perusing interesting shops, or delight the kids with a visit to the fun-filled and kid-friendly Bounce Trampoline Park.

Our expert travel planners and specialists can help you create the most excellent and customized Lisbon travel itinerary, so you can use your time to simply sit back and enjoy. We even have many Lisbon travel package specials to choose from that highlight what we have found to be the most popular and well-received itineraries for travelers to Lisbon with a variety of specific interests.

Are you already in love with Portugal? Take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate Portuguese adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Portuguese experts so that you don't need to worry about any details - just enjoy your trip!

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The Perfect One Day in Lisbon Itinerary

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: May 9, 2024

Welcome to Portugal’s coastal capital of Lisbon. Today, we are going to guide you through the ultimate one day in Lisbon itinerary, showing you the best this city has to offer in just one day.

If you’re staying in Lisbon longer, you will want to check out our other blog posts, 48 Hours in Lisbon , Where to Stay in Lisbon, and Best Day Trips from Lisbon . But for now, let’s get started with 1 day in Lisbon.

One Day in Lisbon Itinerary

The first burning question that needs to be answered is, can you see Lisbon in just one day? While it is much more difficult to see everything in Lisbon than, say, Porto, it is possible to enjoy its highlights and top attractions in one very jam-packed 24 hours. So, we are going to show you the route that we think you should take.

Belem Tower

Start your one-day trip to Lisbon in the Belem district with an early morning sunrise at Belem Tower. You can go inside Belem Tower, but it doesn’t open until 10 a.m., and the crowds are fierce. This attraction can be enjoyed from the outside, and you will feel fulfilled. If you go for sunrise, it will just be you and a few photographers capturing this UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of Portugal’s seven wonders.

It’s located directly on the Tagus River. This beautiful tower was built in 1515 to defend Lisbon from invaders coming in along the Tagus River.

Monument of Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos)

Leaving Belem Tower, it is just a short walk along the waterfront promenade to the Monument of Discoveries. Portugal was a land of explorers; the Padrão dos Descobrimentos is a tribute to Portugal’s legendary explorers. You can’t miss this monument as it towers over the Tagus River.

Standing 52 meters high, it is an impressive sight. It was built in the 20th century, but it is no less impressive. For a small fee, you can take an elevator up for views over the Tagus River, or you can walk up the stairs. It doesn’t open until 10 a.m., so we say to simply enjoy the views.

Make sure to stop and take a look at the Compass Rose adorning the square in front of the Monument of Discoveries. It was a gift from South Africa and pays tribute to Portugal’s journies in the 15th and 16th centuries. Within the design, look for a mermaid, Neptune, fave compass roses, and blowing faces.

If you really want to see the views of the Tagus, you can return and take the elevator directly after your stop at our next Lisbon attraction.

Jerónimos Monastery

Walking up from the waterfront, you will come across Jerónimos Monastery. This is the first stop that we suggest you go inside. Book your time entry ticket for the first entry of the day. After seeing Belem Tower and Padrão dos Descobrimentos, it should be the perfect time to enter Jerónimos Monastery, which opens at 10 am.

Jerónimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it too is one of Porugal’s seven wonders as it is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Its beautiful marble design is not to be missed. Inside, you’ll want to find the cloisters, the courtyards and gardens, and the chapel. The monastery also houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama, who was the first European to reach India by ship.

We suggest spending an hour here and then be on your way. Because remember, you only have one day in Lisbon, and when you get home, people will ask, “Did you see this?” “Did you see that?” and you can say, “Yes, I did!”

• Upgrade to a Lisbon Card for free access to public transport and top attractions, including Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and more

Pateis de Bélem

Continuing our journey through Belém, we see that it’s time for a snack break. You have been going since sunrise, and if you didn’t book a hotel with breakfast included (which we highly recommend because it saves money and time), you will be ready to eat.

Pasteis de Bélem is an icon of the city, and whether you are hungry or not, you must go inside to taste this famous Portuguese custard.

Besteis de Bélem is the original Pastel de Nata that you will eat throughout Portugal. The iconic Portuguese custard tart was started here at the Monastery when the nuns used egg whites to starch their habits. They had left-over yolks and didn’t know what to do with them, so they made a custard that they stuffed into pastries and sold to earn money for the Monastery. And thus, Pastel de Nata was born. Then, the Monastery was closed, and they gave the recipe to the bakery next door. They have been serving Pasteis de Belem ever since.

Don’t be afraid if you see a long line. The restaurant is huge, and the lines move quickly. We were inside within a few minutes.

Midday / Lunch

You can take the tram back to Placa Do Comercio (the main square located on the waterfront) from Belem and ride one of Lisbon’s historic trams while you make your way to its beautiful waterfront square. This gives you the opportunity to enjoy one of Lisbon’s top attractions – riding its iconic trams – while you make your way back to the old city.

You can hire an Uber, like we did. If you hire an Uber, have it drop you off at the Time Out Market, where you will be having lunch. If you take the tram, the Time Out Market is just a 15-minute walk from Comercio Square. Before you make your way to the market, you can check out the beautiful square and Rua Agusta Arch

From Comercio Square walk to the Rua Agusta Arch towards the pedestrian street of Rua Agusta. Rua Agusta is 6 blocks of shops, dining and energy with street performers entertaining customers as they eat their lunch.

Pull up a chair at one of the outdoor cafes to enjoy some authentic Portuguese food. This is a beautiful street that is not to be missed, and it is right in the heart of the city. Stroll along this street, taking in the sights and going into the Bacalau, Pasteis de Nata, and Portuguese cans stores.

Alfama District

The Alfama District is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood and a good place to round off the rest of the afternoon. If you want to walk, it is just 5-10 minutes from Rua Agusta to the start of your walking tour of Alfama. It is here that you’ll really feel the history of Lisbon as you wander its narrow streets.

Lisbon Cathedral

Start your time in Alfama at the Lisbon Cathedral. It is the oldest church in the city, dating back to the 12th century. You can go inside for free, but to see its cloisters, there is a small fee of about €2

Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Portas do Sol is the next stop, a short walk uphill. This is one of the most popular Miradouros in Lisbon, as it looks out over the river and city. See the terracotta rooftops that feels as if you are overlooking a Meditteranean village cascading into the sea.

It is located on a large balcony, offering plenty of room to take in the panoramic view. Things to keep an eye out for is the Monastery of St. Vincen and the National Pantheon.

From Portas do Sol, you can hop on Tram 28. No trip to Lisbon would be complete without getting on one of its historic trams, and Tram 28 is iconic. Tram 28 replaced the original horse-drawn carriages in 1914. Lisbon is known as the city of hills, and these trams help locals travel through its steep hills. Tram 28 is a 7m route that takes you through the popular tourist districts of Lisbon, Graca, Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, Santa Catarina & Estrela.

It takes 50 minutes to ride the entire route, but we suggest using it as a form of public transport instead. If you only want to take it a couple of stops, you can hire an Uber. The tram runs until 10 or 11 pm (depending on the season), so you can always hop back later to see everything.

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

From Portas do Sol, Tram 28 will take you next to the Monastery of St. George, where you can hop off to explore inside, or you can simply enjoy the view and wait for your next stop, the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Time is probably getting tight now, so you may want to skip it and head directly to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.

This is the highest point in Lisbon and is worth stopping for an overhead view of the city.

Castelo de São Jorge

Take a walk along the castle’s ancient walls and enjoy the incredible views of the city from high above. Castelo de São Jorge is open until 9 pm in the summer and is a great spot for sunset.

You’ll have access to its gardens and can join a guided tour. There is a museum inside that is free to enter, and of course, the castle walls and views of the city are beautiful. This site is a significant historic destination, with settlements dating back to the 7th century BC.

Evening/Dinner

To round your one day itinerary in Lisbon, make your way to Barrio Alto. This is the place for nightlife in Lisbon, and there are several choices for dinner in Bairro Alto. We loved the Gin Lover’s Bar in Barrio Alto. We had a cocktail here before enjoying a delicious meal on the outdoor terrace.

After dinner, you have a few choices: you can enjoy the nightlife of Bairro Alto, go bar hopping, and search for some Fado performers. If you really want to see a Fado show, we recommend booking an organized performance in advance here . This highly rated tour

Well, that was a busy one day in Lisbon, Portugal! From historic landmarks to vibrant neighborhoods and stunning views from its miradouros, we’ve shown you how to make the most of your day AND night in this stunning city. If you are spending more time in Lisbon, check out our post 48 Hours in Lisbon, Itinerary

For even more top sights, the best places to eat, and the most efficient ways to navigate Lisbon, check out our blog The Best Things to Do in Lisbon

• Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon: Tips & Itinerary

Is Portugal Expensive To Visit? Travel Costs And Budgets

• 14 Best Things to Do in Sintra, Portugal
• 19 Fun and Interesting Facts About Portugal You Should Know

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When is the best time to visit Lisbon?

Mar 26, 2018

Chris Ciolli

The Portuguese capital has a reputation as a budget traveler’s paradise — and with good reason. So it’s hardly surprising that Lisbon ranks among our favorite cheapo destinations. We’ve shared  tips about finding a low-cost hotel room  and where to find cheap eats , but when is the best time to visit Lisbon if you’re traveling on a budget?

The off-season is the best deal (think late January and all of February when the weather is too drizzly for folks chasing the sun on winter trips). On the other hand, fall and spring have the best combination of travel variables like decent weather, excellent prices, and minimum crowds. (This “shoulder season” is our favorite for traveling throughout Europe, as we discuss here .)

But what about the high season? Should you avoid it at all cost?  Not necessarily. It’ll cost you substantially more but Lisbon is still so much cheaper than destinations elsewhere in Europe. So it may be worth the investment, particularly for folks who want to combine their sightseeing with sun worshipping or major local events and festivals.

 More tips for Lisbon: • Our favorite best budget hotels in Lisbon • Fun and free things to do in Lisbon • How to spend 2 days in Lisbon on a budget

The best time to visit Lisbon

So what do we recommend? Read on for reasons why and why not to visit Lisbon during each season, and then make a decision based on your personal priorities and budget.

Go when it’s cheapest: Lisbon in winter

We’re going to go out on a limb here and claim winter as our favorite time of year to visit Lisbon. Sure, the weather can be chilly and rainy occasionally, but a little wet and cold never stopped a determined Cheapo! Besides, as winters in Europe go, Lisbon’s is generally mild (with daytime temps in the 50s on average), and it’s a city that easily retains its charm, even under drizzle and cloud cover.

Travel plans around the Christmas holidays may cost you slightly more than the rest of the winter, but as Lisbon isn’t a popular holiday market destination, they’re still likely to be more affordable as compared to Munich or Budapest . But from mid-January through mid-March, accommodations, and flights are as cheap as they’ll be all year long, and there are virtually no crowds at monuments around town. Bring a lightweight coat and an umbrella and you’re golden.

Go when the flowers bloom: Lisbon in spring

This is the time of year when most other travelers will claim it’s best to visit Lisbon. And they’re not wrong about the city’s appeal. The combination of blooming flowers, sunnier skies, and warmer temps (think 60s and 70s) without the masses make Lisbon a lovely choice for a spring holiday. Of course, if you choose to plan your visit around Easter Week, be ready to brave crowds and higher prices, as travelers from around Europe tend to take time off around these dates.

That said, if you’re interested in the pomp and circumstance of Portugal’s traditional processions, it may be worth dealing with higher prices and adding a couple of days in Braga (3.5 hours from Lisbon) to your itinerary to get an eyeful of the faithful in traditional grab hefting around massive religious relics. Just be sure to book many months in advance.

Related: Explore Braga, Portugal’s third largest city

Go when it’s sunny: Lisbon in summer

Summers in Lisbon can be scorching (slather on a high SPF — the sun can be intense), but the long hours of dependable sunlight make for uninterrupted exploring. It’s also perfect weather for folks who want to head to nearby fishing villages like Cascais for swimming or surfing.

Related: Lisbon Day Trips: Exploring Sintra, Cascais, and Coimbra

For minimum crowds and lower room rates, try earlier in the summer, as August is a popular vacation month throughout Europe. And if you’re committed to summer in Lisbon, book far in advance to save a few euros. If celebrating in the streets with locals sounds like your type of vacation, visit around June 13th, when Lisbon hosts a massive citywide party for its patron saint, Saint Anthony.

Visit Lisbon in the fall with more clouds in the sky but fewer crowds in the streets. Photo: donchili

Go when it’s less crowded: Lisbon in fall

After winter, fall is our second favorite time of year to spend some time in Lisbon for less. Like spring, it’s a shoulder season, and the weather is slightly more unpredictable than in summer. But Cheapos will be happy because prices are low, the weather is still pretty reliably warm and sunny, and the crowds are smaller in comparison to the summer months.

Late in the season, there’s a slight uptick in visitors for Thanksgiving holidays, but even then, prices and occupancy are reasonable. Just be warned that on average, November is the rainiest month in the city. So pack water-resistant shoes and a hooded jacket — wet feet can make exploring on foot pretty unpleasant.

Lisbon hotel advice for any season

• Our top 20 hotels in Lisbon • Lisbon hotels under $100 per night • Lisbon budget accommodations: 5 cheapo picks

Have you been to Lisbon? When’s your favorite time to visit the Portuguese capital? Share in the comment section below.

About the author

Chris Ciolli is a writer, translator and editor from the American midwest who’s been living in the Mediterranean for more than a decade. From her home base in Barcelona she writes about food, culture and travel in Catalonia, Spain and the rest of the world. Her work has been featured on AFAR.com, LaVanguardia.com, and Fathomaway.com. Between projects, Chris paints, makes jewelry, writes about her book addiction at Read.Learn.Write and muses about the traveling life at her blog, Midwesterner Abroad .

Related Posts

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• The top budget hotels in Lisbon for 2024
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How would you compare the prices with Eastern Europe particularly the south east ?

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The Best Times to Visit Portugal, According to a Local

The pastéis de nata are waiting.

Best Times to Visit Portugal for Smaller Crowds

Best times to visit portugal for good weather.

• Best Times to Visit Portugal for Lower Prices

Best Times to Visit Portugal for Festivals

Worst times to visit portugal.

In 2023, Portugal set a new tourism record when more than 1.8 million people visited in May. And, as Reuters reported , more than 6.4 million travelers paid the Iberian nation a visit in the first five months of 2023, up from 5.7 million during the same time period in 2019, prior to the pandemic. So, what makes this place special enough to attract that many people? Well, just about everything. 

“Portugal is one of the smallest countries with the largest plethora of touristic activities on offer,” Nick Roucos, managing director of Bomporto Hotels, which owns The Vintage Lisbon and The Lumiares , shared with Travel + Leisure . “In such a small territory, you can, in a very short framework of time and space, immerse yourself in the culture of city life, enjoy natural wonders from beaches to rivers to gardens, taste its rich yet diversified gastronomy across every region, or just lay back and relax in the most peaceful surroundings.”

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

As a resident of Portugal , I can attest to its bounty of activities, history, and delicious food (don't miss the pastéis de nata , bacalhau , or garlic shrimp). I can also promise it’s a place worthy of exploration throughout the year. And experts like Teresa Barros, founder and CEO of Xpose Consulting , couldn’t agree more. 

“Portugal is a magical country. Imagine a place where the ‘old world’ meets the ‘new world’ — Portugal has the best of both. Here, you still have the slow living of the ‘old world’ mixed with the creativity and energy of a country that has recently been ‘discovered,’” said Barros. As for when she thinks it’s best to visit, it’s all about the renewal period.  

“Portugal is known for its year-round good weather. Having said this, I suggest visiting in the spring (April to June ), when nature is awakening and brings incredible light and energy,” she shared. “As an alternative, I suggest visiting in the fall (September or October), when the weather is still great and places are generally more chill than in August (when everything tends to be fuller). It's also a great way to extend summer.” 

Portugal experiences four distinct seasons, but it never gets too cold to venture out. Still, the weather can swing wildly from summer to winter, as can the crowds and prices for hotels, excursions, and more. Portugal’s tourism seasons fall into three categories: 

• High Season: June through August
• Shoulder Season: September to November; April to June
• Low Season: December to April

Zu Sanchez Photography/Getty Images

The best time to visit Portugal for smaller crowds is during the colder months from December through April. This is when you’ll find far fewer tourists crowding the streets. That said, the weather will indeed be colder up and down the coast, making it a less-than-ideal time to hit the beach. However, it’s an exceptionally good period to explore places like Lisbon and Porto , the country’s two largest cities. In both, you’ll find plenty of historic attractions, like Praça do Comércio and Belém Tower in Lisbon, as well as the World of Wine in Porto, which will teach you everything you ever wanted to know about Portuguese wine. And really, there’s no better time to try one of the nation’s famed red wines than on a chilly winter day. 

For warm, long days, pay Portugal a visit over the summer months. As Weather Spark explained , the warm season in Portugal typically lasts from mid-June to mid-September, when the average daily high hits above 78 degrees Fahrenheit. The hottest month is August, with an average high of 83 degrees. The only thing to note during this time is that the winds tend to pick up, which is why most people who frequent the beaches in Portugal own screen guards to keep the sand from whipping up around them and getting into their swimsuits while sunbathing.

Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Portugal for Lower Prices 

The best time to visit Portugal for lower prices is in both its shoulder and low seasons. While we’ve discussed the low season above, it’s key to point out Portugal’s shoulder seasons in the spring and fall can be fantastic, too. You’ll typically find thinner crowds in highly touristed areas like Lisbon, Faro, and Porto, but the weather will still usually be sublime. It's also a great time to find deals on hotels and excursions, plus visiting during this period gives you a much better shot at snagging coveted reservations at the country’s hottest restaurants. If you don’t mind cooler temperatures and are a fan of beautiful wildflower blooms and bright green pastures, make your way to Portugal in its spring shoulder season. For still warm (and even potentially hot) days, try the fall shoulder season instead. 

Portugal is a nation that loves its festivals. A personal favorite is Festas de Santo António, which is celebrated in Lisbon and beyond and honors the city’s patron saint, Santo António. The main celebrations happen from June 11 to 13, when people take to the streets to enjoy sardines and watch the fabulous parades. (Seriously, the parties happen in every corner of the city, and people spill out onto the streets all night long, so don't expect to get a good night's sleep over these few days).

Other major festivals in Portugal include Carnival, which occurs in February and March; Holy Week in April and May; and Sintra Festival over the summer. 

It's also worth visiting during the festive season, as the nation takes its Christmas joy seriously. Travelers can find twinkly lights and nativity scenes just about everywhere, along with a number of Christmas markets in places like Lisbon and Porto. 

Chris VR/Travel + Leisure

There's no bad time to visit Portugal, as every season offers its own rewards. However, if you want to avoid the destination's rainy season, avoid coming in October and November. This is when you’ll be hard-pressed to find a fully clear day, plus temperatures may be a bit cooler and the days get a lot shorter. That said, you can always find something to fill your time here, so really, the best time to visit Portugal is whenever you wish. 

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Looking for cheaper Eras Tour tickets? See Taylor Swift at these 10 international cities.

Swifties who want to snag tickets to Taylor Swift’s colossal Eras Tour know the experience won’t come cheap.  

This year, the billionaire will only visit three U.S. cities – Miami, New Orleans and Indianapolis – and prices for the in-demand shows are astronomical . For the Oct. 18 show in Miami, for example, cost of a single ticket ranged between $1,615 and $8,524 on StubHub.com as of Wednesday afternoon.

So, how else can fans see one of the world’s biggest singers? Go abroad .

In the past 30 days, searches for ‘Taylor Swift Europe tour 2024 tickets’ have increased by 300% in the U.S., indicating that some people are ready to take a long-haul flight to see the wildly popular artist live, according to travel website Islands.com .

Concert-goers who head to Europe for their Swift experience may actually save more money in the long-run . Not only are ticket prices across the pond cheaper, but many European cities, like Warsaw and Lisbon, are also budget-friendly, offering inexpensive food and lodging. 

Was the travel worth it? Beyoncé and Taylor Swift's summer concerts drew fans from afar

To determine the most affordable Eras Tour stops, Islands.com researchers compared the cost of a two-night trip, including one cheap ticket on StubHub.com, two nights at a four-star hotel, six inexpensive meals, two five-mile taxi rides, and one domestic beer. However, researchers didn’t account for airline tickets or concert merchandise.

With safety at the top of travelers' minds, the researchers also factored in the city’s safety rating out of 100. 

To stay extra safe, the State Department encourages travelers to register with the U.S. embassy in the country they're visiting any time they travel abroad. That can be done at step.state.gov .

10 cheapest destinations for the Eras Tour in 2024

10. Vienna, Austria - total average cost: $1,089, safety score: 69.72

9. Cardiff, U.K. - total average cost: $1,061, safety score: 61.83

8. Lyon, France - total average cost: $1,047, safety score: 44.3

7. Lisbon, Portugal - total average cost: $1,028, safety score: 70.15

6. Munich, Germany - total average cost: $1,000, safety score: 78.88

5. Paris, France - total average cost: $971, safety score: 41.83

4. Stockholm, Sweden - total average cost: $935, safety score: 53.86

3. Hamburg, Germany - total average cost: $903, safety score: 57.51

2. Gelsenkirchen, Germany - total average cost: $749, safety score: 51.33

1. Warsaw, Poland - total average cost: $712, safety score: 72.98