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Lisbon   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

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

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Tram 28 Tram 28

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

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

Belém Belém free

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

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

Cabo da Roca Cabo da Roca free

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

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

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Alfama Alfama free

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

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

Santa Justa Lift Santa Justa Lift

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

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

Lisbon Cathedral Lisbon Cathedral free

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

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

Sintra Sintra free

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

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

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

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

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

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Plan a daytrip to Cascais Plan a daytrip to Cascais free

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Palácio Nacional da Ajuda Palácio Nacional da Ajuda

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

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

LxFactory LxFactory free

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

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

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

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

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

Monastery of Jerónimos Monastery of Jerónimos

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

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

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

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

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

Feira da Ladra Feira da Ladra free

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

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

Carmo Convent Carmo Convent

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

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

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The 22 best things to do in Lisbon

By Trish Lorenz and Abigail Malbon

Over the past five years Lisbon has had something of a makeover – in fact, there are so many things to in Lisbon that it’s becoming difficult to see the city in just a weekend. Its historic cobbled lanes, pretty wooden trams, sparkling river and striking tiled façades are all still there but there’s now a host of intriguing new spaces to visit, too. Chefs from around the world are opening some of the best restaurants in Lisbon , challenging the excellent local restaurants to raise the bar even further. Young Portuguese mixologists and baristas are returning from time spent in London , Paris and New York to launch bars and cafés that blend the best of home and away. And emerging fashion designers, artists, ceramicists and furniture makers are exhibiting and selling their wares in new stores and galleries that celebrate the skills of talented locals.

Of course, in between eating and drinking you’ll want to see Lisbon’s sights – from the Belém Tower to Castelo de S. Jorge – but there’s plenty more to experience in this wonderful, colourful city. Here’s 22 things to do in Lisbon on your next trip.

1. Walk the city

No visit to Lisbon is complete without a walk through the historic suburbs of Alfama and Mouraria, which tumble down the hillside below the castle. Winding lanes are flanked by beautifully tiled palaces and dotted with shady squares lined with fragrant orange trees and bars and cafés with sardines grilling over the coals outside. Don’t worry about navigating a route; aim to get lost and you’re bound to discover a pretty corner with striking views across the city – just pack your trainers! In the evening head for Casa de Fados in Mouraria. Formerly the home of 19th-century singer Maria Severa, it’s one of the best places in town to listen to the soulful sounds of fado.

2. Listen to Fado music

And if you’re hungry for more of the same, now’s the perfect time. Fado is a music genre that is thought to have originated in the 19th century in Portugal (although it’s likely to have been much earlier), and no visit to Lisbon is complete without experiencing the melodic tunes. If you wander through the old town of Alfama you’ll likely hear it entirely by accident, coming from the many local bars, restaurants and even houses. But if you choose to seek it out, head to Fado & Wine, Clube de Fado or Sr. Fado.

3. Go to a festival

Lisbon has an impressive festival scene, which is bouncing back stronger than ever post-pandemic. July 2023 sees the return of Nos Alive , a three-day festival in Passeio Marítimo de Algés held on the waterfront, with an epic line-up that includes Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Arctic Monkeys, Lizzo and Sam Smith.

Also in July, Super Bock Super Rock sees The 1975 and Wu-Tang Clan headlining. In September, MEO Kalorama will host Arcade Fire, Aphex Twin and Florence + The Machine.

4. Ride the 28 tram

Of course, the tram is synonymous with Lisbon. The most famous route, and the one that gives the best look at the city for those visiting for the first time, is the 28. First developed in 1914, the route was designed to take residents from the central Baixa district to neighbourhoods like Graca and Estrela, and subsequently goes through many sights and charming neighbourhoods. As a result, this tram gets extremely busy, and you can expect to queue – taking the ride early will help ease the wait a little.

5. Visit a ceramics shop

Lisbon’s tiled facades are famous on Instagram, but there’s more to the city’s ceramic history than patterned house-fronts. Portugal is rich in clay, and has been making ceramics for centuries – in fact, many of its artists are world-renowned. Visit Cerâmicas na Linha in Chiado, where you can shop the vast offering and pay per kilogram – expect to find plates, bowls and mugs that would cost double, or triple the price back home.

6. Eat a pastel de nata

The local custard tart, with its addictive mix of sweet custard and flaky pastry, is a Portuguese tradition that never gets old. A pilgrimage to Pastéis de Belém is on most people’s list (and there’s nothing wrong with that). But we think the ones from CASTRO , a new spot in town, are up there. For something more avant-garde, head to Bairro Alto Hotel, one of Lisbon's best hotels . Along with fifth-floor BAHR restaurant (exemplary dishes served alongside wide river views), the hotel has an in-house pastelaria, which offers original and delicious takes on traditional pastries.

7. Visit nearby beaches

Lisbon is very much a beach destination, if you want it to be. Whether it’s a trip to nearby fishing town Cascais, which is a favourite of UK travellers looking for a quieter alternative to the city, or watching surfers and 26km-long Caparica, sometimes a day outside of the city is exactly what the doctor orders. See our full list of the best beaches in Lisbon to suit every type of traveller.

8. Hang out with locals at LX Factory

An area that was once home to Lisbon’s textiles factory has now become one of the coolest hangouts in the city. The area retains its industrial warehouse vibe, but is now home to independent shops, boutiques, restaurants, bars and more, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. If you have time, head to the top of the hostel to the rooftop bar and enjoy a caipirinha or two in the sunshine.

Olivia Morelli

Charlotte Davey

Charlie Hobbs

Sarah James

9. Eat in one of the city’s restaurants

It could easily be argued that Lisbon is one of the foodiest capitals in the world, and there truly is something for everyone here; from tiny, local portuguese tascas serving up moreish codfish cakes to Michelin-starred restaurants showcasing the best local produce. There’s a passionate, hungry young crowd of chefs competing with the best in London, New York and more, and no trip is complete without sampling their inventive menus. See here the full list of the best restaurants in Lisbon , as tried by us.

10. Climb to the top of the Panteão Nacional

This beautiful church is the national pantheon of Portugal, and sits proudly in the Alfama district, instantly recognisable with its white dome ceiling. Visitors can enter the pantheon and climb to the top, where they’ll have a perfect view of the stunning symmetrical design from above. It’s also a great place to see the city from above, with views stretching way across the Tagus river.

11. Go shopping

The Feeting Room is an independent concept store showcasing young Portuguese designers. You’ll find men and women’s footwear, fashion and accessories, including colourful vegan leather wallets and backpacks by emerging Lisbon brand We the Knot. At the +351 store, local designer and former pro-surfer Ana Costa creates T-shirts and sweatshirts in muted tones or check out homegrown menswear brand La Paz for clothing that channels the city’s Atlantic coast location. Eyewear company Fora stocks a range of glasses and sunglasses designed in Lisbon and hand-made in the north of Portugal. Vintage lovers can scour the flea market, Feira da Ladra, pictured, which is held every Tuesday and Saturday and has an eclectic selection of craft and design, vintage collectibles and second-hand clothing.

12. Visit Sintra

An hour’s train ride away from Lisbon is Sintra; a charming Portuguese town situated within the hills of the Serra de Sintra. For those who haven’t been before, it’s a wonder – a place of colourful palaces, winding roads and secret streets. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Vila Palace with its two distinctive cone-shaped chimneys, the Palácio and Quinta da Regaleira, the Pena Palace and more. A tip is to go early and avoid weekends, as the area can become extremely busy.

13. Watch the sun set at a rooftop bar

The panorama from any of central Lisbon’s many rooftop bars is incredibly impressive; the castle battlements on the hillside opposite, the wavy-cobblestone Rossio square and the river beyond are all visible. Whether you want laid-back drinks at former carpark Park, or something slightly more chic and formal and Lumi rooftop above The Lumiares hotel , every visitor should take in the view of Lisbon from above. Combine sundowners, slow DJ sets and sharing menus and you have all the ingredients for long, laidback Lisbon evenings.

14. See the Belém Tower

The pastel de nata are reason enough for some to make the trip to Belém, but the tower – built between the years 1515 and 1521 – is not to be missed. It was designed to serve as both a gateway to the city of Lisbon and as a defence against possible invasions and attacks from the Tagus. Now, visitors can enter the fort and enjoy the architecture up-close. If you’re staying in Lisbon, hire a bike and cycle along the river until you reach the tower.

15. Find the best views at the city’s miradouros (view points)

While the city’s rooftop bars are well worth a visit, locals tend to frequent the free miradouros – or viewpoints – dotted around the city to watch the sun go down, instead. The Miradouro das Portas do Sol is the one you’re most likely to have seen on social media, thanks to its tiled decor and bougainvillea, but for a more quiet experience we recommend the Miradouro da Graça. Bring a drink and a picnic to enjoy while you soak up the vibes of the city.

16. Learn to surf

There are a surprising number of beaches within easy reach of the sunny city, so you’re bound to have plenty of days to work on your tan. The nearest is Carcavelos, a long sandy curve beloved of teenagers and university students, which is just 15 minutes by train from Cais do Sodré station. Stay on the train for another 15 minutes and you’ll reach the family-friendly bays of pretty neighbouring Cascais. Surfers and those who like a caipirinha or cold beer served to their beach lounger should pop across the river (a short ferry and bus ride) to the 20 miles of white-sand surf beaches and beachside bars at Costa da Caparica.

17. Go to a museum

The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, the National Tile Museum, the Museu do Fado – Lisbon has seemingly endless museums to visit. If your trip is a fleeting one and you’re forced to prioritise, we recommend the National Museum of Ancient Art, where paintings, sculptures, furniture, ceramics, textiles, gold, and silverware capture Portugal’s riveting history from the Middle Ages through the 19th century.

18. See the Jerónimos Monastery

Most visit Belém to see the tower and sample pastéis de Belém, but there's so much more to see in this area a short train ride from Lisbon's city centre.

The Gothic-style Jerónimos Monastery is a massive, imposing but beautiful building that was designed by the Portuguese architect Diogo de Boitaca to commemorate the return of Vasco da Gama from India. The construction began on 6 January 1501 but wasn’t completed until the 17th century, when it became home to the monks of the Order of Saint Jerome (who are, incidentally, said to be responsible for the famous Portuguese tart recipe). Now, it's open to the public, and well worth a visit.

19. Take a walk through Monsanto Park

This huge green space located to the west of Lisbon is a stunning place to stroll and see impressive views of the city. There are a number of different walking trails in the 50 hectare park, depending on the length and difficulty that works for you, but each is beautiful and makes for an ideal escape from the crowds that congregate in the city centre.

20. Take a food tour

In case we haven't been clear, Lisbon is a city made for foodies. So much so, that it can be difficult to fit everything into just one short weekend. A Culinary Backstreets tour will allow you to taste the best of what Lisbon has to offer, plus learn about local plates and traditions, within the space of an afternoon. You can go from nibbling sardines on street corners of the old town to tasting house-made hot sauces, or piripiri, and taking a shot of ginjinha – a sour cherry liqueur loved by locals and tourists alike.

21. Visit the Castelo de São Jorge

There's no escaping the imposing castle in Lisbon; it sits atop the city, overlooking everything below, and is visible from almost every angle. Originally built by the Romans in 200bc, the castle underwent a huge renovation in the 1940s, and is now arguably the most popular tourist attraction in all of Lisbon. This, of course, means that it's always busy – so we recommend visiting in the morning or late afternoon, and buying tickets online to skip the queue.

That being said, there's nothing quite like standing above all of Lisbon and taking in the view of the city's terracotta roofs, to the River Tagus and beyond – if you're a first-time visitor to the city, we highly recommend visiting this wonderful monument.

22. See the Palácio Nacional de Mafra

The National Palace in Mafra is around a 45-minute drive from Lisbon, but makes for a wonderful day trip for history buffs and architecture fans. This magnificent building, which was once the summer residence of the royal family, covers four hectares, and within that space is 1,200 rooms, an 18th-century hospital, Italian sculptures, Italian and Portuguese paintings and an impressive library containing 16th, 17th and 18th century books, many of them highly rare.

There's so much to explore that you could easily spend the majority of the day here. When you're finished, stroll around the town and take lunch at one of the typical tascas serving up classic Portuguese dishes, before returning to Lisbon.

14 Best Things To Do in Lisbon (3-Day Guide)

Lisbon, one of the oldest and best cities to visit in Europe. In recent years, it has gained popularity for its charming streets, authentic trams, architecture, and delicious food, and now easily competes with Barcelona or Venice . Plan a 3-day Lisbon city trip to Portugal’s capital and follow the following things to do in Lisbon for a guaranteed great trip.

Day 1 – Lisbon

Good morning from the charming streets of Lisbon. Start your day early, as the streets will get too busy by 8:30 AM when most tours start. All the things to do in Lisbon on the first day can be easily seen on foot.

Also see: Complete Portugal Travel Guide

1. Santa Justa Lift

The Santa Justa Lift is the 45-meter high famous elevator of Lisbon built to connect two neighborhoods. When it opened in 1902 it saved Lisbon’s residents a tough climb uphill. 

Nowadays, the elevator and observation deck on top are one of the must-sees in Lisbon which opens at 7 AM. Fun fact: The design was inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris .

2. Wander through Lisbon’s Main Square

Praca do Comercio is Lisbon’s main square and formerly used to unload goods directly from the river. Opposite the river is the “Door to Lisbon” – Arco da Rua Augusta, the huge arch leads to the shopping boulevard and absolute center of Lisbon. It is a 5-minute walk from the Santa Justa elevator.

Here are all your hotel options in Lisbon.

3. Pink Street

Make your way to Lisbon’s former Red Light District that now is one of the nightlife areas of the city. New cafes, bars, and a pink street were introduced in 2011 to give this area a new life. It has become one of the more popular things to do in Lisbon so an early visit for an empty pink street would be required.

Lunch tip: Get a delicious lunch at Cafe Janis which is very close to Pink Street.

4. Tram 28 to Alfama – must-do in Lisbon!

Walk back to this nearby tram stop for a ride on the classic tram 28 route. These yellow trams, dating back from 1930, rolling up the hilly streets is what Lisbon’s charm so much. A single ticket to the tram costs 3 EUR. (~ 3.5 USD)

Portugal has more to offer! Like Monsanto, the village built on rocks.

5. Alfama – Best of Lisbon

A small labyrinth of cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and some of the best architecture in the city. To most people, this is the most beautiful part of the city, where the old trams are rolling through the narrow streets. 

Around 5 PM, stroll through Alfama’s colorful and hilly streets for some soft sun tones shining through the streets. Visit Sé Catedral as it is the oldest, impressive, and most important church of Lisbon. Your list of things to do in Lisbon isn’t complete without Alfama on it. 

6. Sunset at a viewpoint

Lisbon, and especially Alfama has many ‘Miradours’ (viewpoints). Two locations close to each other are Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol. At the garden of Santa Luzia, note the beautiful blue tiles on the wall.

Also read: Complete Porto City Trip Guide

Day 2 – Sintra

A short train ride west from Lisbon is the UNESCO Cultural Landscape Sintra; a forested hill area accompanied with palaces in pastel colors, Moorish-style architecture, and detailed tile work. 

Also read: Best Places to visit in Portugal

7. Visit Sintra – Favorite thing to do on a Lisbon city trip

The villas and palaces at Sintra open their doors at 9:30 AM, and, especially in summer, Pena Palace gets crowded fast. Get on the train to Sintra at Rossio station in the morning, ideally at 7:40 AM, so you will be at the doors of Pena Palace when it opens. 

Plan to spend the afternoon visiting Pena Palace on the hilltop, Monserrate Palace, Quinta da Regaleira with the mind-blowing inverted towers, and the medieval Moorish castle and their lush gardens and parks. Learn how to visit Sintra, the entrance prices, and the best places to see.

Read all about:   The Castles and Palaces of Sintra, Portugal

8. Castelo de S. Jorge – Best Sunset of Lisbon

In the afternoon, make your way back to Lisbon for a memorable sunset at one of the city’s landmarks. Castelo de S. Jorge in the Alfama district is a castle on the city’s highest hill offering a 360-degree view.

Find out about the best city trips in Europe .

It is a 20-minute walk from Rossio station, but on your way there, we highly recommend a relaxing and delicious coffee stop at Copenhagen Coffee Lab & Bakery.

Entrance costs 10 EUR or 5 EUR when you’re under 26 years old.

Day 3 – Cascais and Belem

Spend the last day of your city trip with the following things to do in Lisbon. 

Cascais is a tiny, charming old fishing village that is easy to reach by a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon. It is home to Lisbon’s wealthy people who spend their weekends in their holiday homes, but luckily Cascais’s character remains. 

Walk the narrow cobblestone streets during the peaceful early morning when the weather is still refreshing and the streets are still empty. Cascais is a collection of picturesque little houses decorated with flowers.

Transport: A one-way train ticket to Cascais costs 2.25 EUR (~ 2.50 USD).

10. Cascais Beach

Cascais has a huge advantage over Lisbon: soft-sand beaches! Relax for a few hours at one of the many beaches in Cascais and cool down in the sea. The water on the Atlantic coast is cold, so don’t expect a relaxing swim in the water.

Read more: the best things to do in Cascais, Portugal

Tip: Get a gelato ice cream at the popular Gelados Santini when walking back to the train station.

11. Belem Tower

On your way back from charming Cascais, get out at Belem station to visit the Belem Tower. The Belem tower is a former defense mechanism and later a prison surrounded by water dating back to 1519.

You can visit the tower on the inside and from the terrace on top. However, a limited number of visitors is allowed, which means that you most likely have to queue. Get your tickets online . 

Tip: The Belem tower is closed every Monday.

12. Mosteiro dos Jerónimos 

The Jerónimos Monastery is an architectural masterpiece that was once a place for sailors to pray before they set out on the seas. Followed by a visit to the world-famous Pasteis de Belem shop to taste custard tarts, of which only a few people know the original recipe. 

13. LX Factory 

LX Factory is a trendy market hidden under the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge. This creative industrial mini-town on an old factory site is a great place to get food, drinks, or get a book at the coolest bookstore in Lisbon. From Belem, hop onto tram 15 towards Calvário to get to LX Factory.

Visit near Lisbon: Obidos, Portugal’s charming village

14. Time Out Market

Ready for dinner? The Time Out Market offers a great selection of food and drinks that will be prepared inside the market.

Just before sunset, walk out of the market towards the pier for the last sunset of your Lisbon city trip. People are enjoying their drinks and having fun together at the riverside.

Also visit: The Algarve, Portugal’s stunning southern coastline

Where to Stay

Lisbon’s best neighborhoods to stay in are the charming old town: Barrio Alto and Alfama, or in the center at Baixa and Chiado. Lisbon is also a haven for backpackers, and there are plenty of great hostels to choose from. Please note: the old town is hilly but also quieter throughout the entire day.

Hotels in Lisbon 😴

How Much Does Lisbon Cost? 

Lisbon is generally considered an affordable destination in Europe. Accommodations range from budget-friendly hostels to beautiful guesthouses and luxurious stays. Costs often depend on your choices for food, transport, and activities.

Costs of Traveling in Lisbon

Travel on a budget in Lisbon, from $730 − $910 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1050 − $1930 USD, and high-end from $1880 − $2490 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $200 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $30 − $80 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $2 − $35 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $35 − $60 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $20 − $60 USD
• Activities: $50 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to Visit Lisbon

Lisbon has direct flights and Flix bus connections from all over Europe . The subway connects the airport to the city center with a short 25-minute subway ride.

Getting Around

By foot – Although Lisbon is hilly, this is the only way to see the streets that charm this city. Taking public transport uphill and walking downhill is a good approach.  Public transport –  The bus, metro, and train are all over the city – Get a reusable paper VivaViagem card at a station, top-up your card for every trip, and use it throughout the entire city. 

Taxi – Taxis are a fine choice in Lisbon – services like Taxify and Uber are very convenient as well; however, public transport is cheaper if you are with three people or less. Scooter – Download one of the electric scooter apps like Lime, Tier, or Wind, and cover distance quickly and easily! Please note that you have to be 18 or older.

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Best Time to Visit Lisbon

The best time to visit Lisbon is between March and May or September and mid-November when temperatures are cooler and less crowded. This makes it much easier to do all the things to do in Lisbon.

During the high season months, July and August, accommodation prices are much higher, and the streets are busier .

Tip: June is the month of festivals in Lisbon – a perfect month to visit!

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Lisbon via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Obidos: One of Portugal’s Most Beautiful Villages

9 things to do in cascais, portugal, 9 bucket list things to do in algarve, portugal.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hi :) Which presets did you use to edit the Lisbon photos? Thx!

Hi Lisa, we used presets from our Master Collection found here: https://www.saltinourhair.com/shop/presets/master-collection-3-0/ :)

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The best Lisbon itinerary: a local’s recommendations

By: Author Brittany

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2023

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

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

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

Where to stay in Lisbon

Corpo santo hotel .

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

Book your stay at Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel  here . 

Hotel Avenida Palace 

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

Book your stay at Hotel Avenida Palace  here . 

Book your travel insurance for Lisbon

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

How to get from your airport to the hotel

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

A few phrases to help you get around

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

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

Fala inglês? – Do you speak English?

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

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

The most fun 5-day Lisbon itinerary

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

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

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

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

Day 1: A day for the artists 

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

Dear Breakfast Alfama

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

Dear Breakfast eggs benedict

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

Cantinho da Sé

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

Paint Azulejos

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

Azulejo tile stencil

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

Painted azulejo tile

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eat a small lunch

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

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

Street art tour

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

Street art Mouraria

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

Vhils Mouraria

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

Delight your senses at a hidden restaurant

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

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

Mini Bar by José Avillez

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

Visit a speakeasy

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

Day 2: A photo-worthy day

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

Say cheese at a Lisbon photoshoot

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

Rua Augusta Arch Lisbon

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

Alfama tram

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

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

Ler Devagar in LX Factory

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

Rui dos Pregos

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

Pasteis de Belém

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

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

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

Jerónimos Monastery

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

Jerónimos monastery

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

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

Belém Tower

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

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

Tower of Belém

Santini ice cream

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

Sunset cruise

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

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

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

A Cevicheria

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

A Cevicheria – Ceviche de Salmão e Ananás

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

A Cevicheria tacos

Pavilhão Chinês

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

Pavilhão Chines Queen’s Guard

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

The Godfather at Pavilhão Chines

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

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

Pena Palace

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

Pena Palace Sintra

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

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

Buy your tickets to Pena Park and Palace here . 

Quinta da Regaleira

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

Initiation Well – Quinta da Regaleira

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

Taste the wines of Portugal at Bar do Binho

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

Eat travesseiros at Casa Piriquita

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

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

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

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

Feel saudade at a fado performance

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

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

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

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

Looking for a Portuguese Connection?

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

Portuguese Connection at Pub Português

Day 4: Step back in history

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

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

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

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

Pastelaria Santo António

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

Take a walk on the wild side of Lisbon history

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

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

History of Lisbon

Don’t forget to tip your guide! 

Food tour – Taste of Lisboa

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

Watch the sunset from a secret garden

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

Secret Garden views

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

Taberna Sal Grosso 

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

Day 5: A day for the foodies 

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

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

Zenith francesinha pancakes

Pastel de nata class

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

Pastel de Nata cooking class

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

Spend the day playing

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

Try another pastel de nata

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

Nata de Lisbon – chocolate pastel de nata

Shop for souvenirs

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

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

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

Dinner: DIY-style

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

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

Até breve!  See you soon! 

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

Pin this Lisbon itinerary!

Candace Capron

Sunday 7th of January 2024

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

Friday 12th of January 2024

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

Friday 27th of January 2023

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

Tuesday 31st of January 2023

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

Wednesday 24th of August 2022

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

Thursday 25th of August 2022

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

Friday 25th of February 2022

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

Saturday 26th of February 2022

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

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• Travel Destinations A-Z

Lisbon Travel Guide

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

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

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

Best Time to Go

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

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

Things to Know

Currency: Euro

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

Language: Portuguese

I don't speak Portuguese: Nao falo portugues

Where is the…: Onde está

Thank you: Obrigada

Learn more Portuguese phrases

Calling Code: +351 21

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

How to Get Around

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

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

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

Best Hotels

The one palácio da anunciada.

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

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

Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa

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

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

Hotel Britania

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

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

Tesouro da Baixa by Shiadu

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

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

Dare Lisbon

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

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

The Lumiares Hotel & Spa

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

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

My Story Hotels

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

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

Best Restaurants

Time out market (upscale food court).

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

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

Pasteis de Belem (Portuguese)

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

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

Tapa Bucho (Portuguese)

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

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

Barrio Do Avillez (Portuguese, Pizza)

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

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

Augusto Lisboa (Breakfast and Brunch)

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

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

Restaurante Feitoria (International)

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

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

Things to Do

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

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

Try ginjinha

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

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

Mosteiro dos Jeronimos

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

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

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

Oceanário de Lisboa

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

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

Best Shopping

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

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

A Vida Portuguesa

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

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

Livraria Bertrand

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

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

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

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

Neighborhoods to Know

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

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

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

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

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

Apps to Download

Lisboa Cool : City guides, maps, planning, scheduling tours iOs | Android

Uber : Ridesharing, food delivery iOs | Android

Google Translate : Translation, phrasebook, transcription iOs | Android

Related Articles

What to See in Lisbon?

Our 22 top lisbon must-sees.

Latest update: June 15, 2023

In a nutshell: Our favorite Lisbon highlights

• Lisbon, with its blue and white azulejos and beautiful fado music, is one of our top picks for a city trip in Europe.
• Must-see sights in Lisbon include Tram Line 28E, Praça do Comércio, and the countless lookout points.
• Cool neighborhoods in Lisbon include the historic Alfama district, the nightlife hub Bairro Alto , and Belém with its historic monuments.
• In addition to the sights in Lisbon, be sure to try Pastéis de Nata , wander around LX Factory , and eat at Time Out Market .
• Great day trip options from Lisbon include the cities of Sintra and Cascais, or one of the many beautiful beaches near Lisbon.

That’s a quick overview of our Lisbon highlights. In our article, we will go into more detail on the 22 best sights in Lisbon.

What to see in Lisbon in 3 days?

What to see in Lisbon if you only have a few days to explore the city? Lisbon has so much to offer, but for visitors with limited time, these are the top Lisbon sights that can be easily explored in one weekend .

• Take a ride on Tram 28E
• Enjoy the view from a Miradouro

Praça do Comércio

• Check out the unique elevators – our pick: Elevador de Santa Justa
• Stroll through Alfama and take in the view from Castelo de São Jorge
• Eat at Time Out Market at least once
• Take a half-day trip to Bélem

All Lisbon sights on a map

So you can get a quick lay of the land, we made a map showing our 22 must-see spots in Lisbon.

Download Lisbon’s attractions map for easy access

The Tram Line 28E

Taking a ride on the famous Tram 28E is a must for your Lisbon sightseeing itinerary! The yellow cars with their 1940s charm are iconic and attract lots of tourists.

The 28E runs from Martim Moniz station in the east to the final stop, Campo Ourique in the west, where you can also find the cemetery of Prazeres, a real hidden gem of Lisbon .

You’ll cross many of the city’s most popular neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, Chiado and Baixa, passing many Lisbon highlights such as Praça do Comércio (#11) or the Lisbon Cathedral (#13).

The route itself is already spectacular : the tram goes up the steepest hills, passing through narrow streets in which only a piece of paper will fit between the tram and the house walls.

Our tip : Get on at the final stop, Campo Ourique. It’s not as busy and you’ll usually still find a free seat.

Pastéis de Nata

What to do in Lisbon besides sightseeing? The answer is Pastéis de Nata – small puff pastry cups filled with creamy custard that are reason enough to visit Lisbon. These addictive treats can be found on almost any corner in Lisbon and have an interesting history.

The origin of Pastéis de Nata goes back to the nuns at the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, who used egg whites to stiffen their caps and came up with a new pastry using the egg yolks. They eventually sold the original recipe to the sugar refinery Fabrica Pastéis de Belém, and to this day, the recipe remains a closely guarded secret .

People often refer to Pastéis de Nata as Pastéis de Belém, but those are actually just the original ones from the Fabrica Pastéis de Belém .

Some say they’re the best in the city, but we don’t think it’s worth standing in line. There are plenty of delicious Pastéis all over town, so we prefer trying a different place every day.

The best viewpoints in Lisbon

Apart from Pastéis de Nata, there’s another thing Lisbon has plenty of – and that’s Miradouros. Miradouro means viewpoint in Portuguese and with a city of seven hills, there are lots of fantastic viewpoints to check out.

Honestly, we can’t decide which one we like best, so here are our top 5 Miradouros for every occasion:

• Miradouro Portas do Sol – the classic : One of the most beautiful but also very touristy viewpoints. You overlook the roofs of Alfama and there are food stalls and street musicians creating the perfect atmosphere.
• Miradouro Graça – for sunsets : From this viewpoint, you have a great view of Castelo de São Jorge. It’s also very popular with locals and a great spot to enjoy the sunset.
• Miradouro Santa Catarina – for the young crowd : This viewpoint fills up with young Lisboners in the evenings, playing music, chatting, and having a beer. The atmosphere is super relaxed.
• Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara – the picturesque : Besides the view of the Tagus River and the Baixa district, this viewpoint is impressive for its artful garden with fountains, colorful flower beds and sculptures.
• Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte – the hidden gem : A lesser-known viewpoint with a view over the Mouraria district. Not many tourists come here and it’s a little quieter.

Elevador de Santa Justa

Along with the viewpoints, there are also the elevators. These aren’t your ordinary building elevators.

The Elevador de Santa Justa is located in a 45-meter-tall iron tower that has a slight resemblance to the Eiffel Tower in Paris . The elevator has two cabins with a capacity of 29 people, taking passengers up and down. When you reach the top, you’re greeted with a viewing platform with an amazing panoramic view of Lisbon’s rooftops.

But originally, the elevator wasn’t just for tourists, it’s actually officially part of the public transportation system. The elevator in the Baixa neighborhood is connected to the Chiado district via a bridge . Given that Lisbon was built on seven hills, this was meant to make it easier for locals to get around during the hot summer months without having to climb up and down the hills.

Our tips for visiting the Elevador de Santa Justa

If you ask us, you don’t really need to take the elevator . Just walk across the bridge from the other side. There’s always a long line in front of the elevator, and the real highlight is actually the view from the top, not the ride.

But if you do decide to go on it, you can use your Viva Viagem or day pass as your ticket, since the elevator is technically part of the public transportation system. Of course, there are tickets available on site, but they’re way more expensive.

Elevador da Bica

The Elevador da Bica is even less of an elevator than the Elevador de Santa Justa. It’s actually one of three funiculars in Lisbon.

On a super steep route of about 250 meters, it covers 45 meters in height and takes you right into the nightlife district of Bairro Alto.

It’s been around since 1892 and the bright yellow retro cabins have a charming vibe. We also really like the small side streets where you can see the authentic Lisbon life unfold.

A round trip costs 3.80 euros, a one-way trip is not possible. Alternatively, your day pass for public transportation works here too.

Elevador da Glória

Right next to the Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint (#3) you’ll find the steepest street in Lisbon : Calçada da Glória.

This is where Elevador da Glória runs, one of Lisbon’s three funiculars . Apparently, the steep ascent was too much for the Lisbon locals.

The funicular connects the famous Praça de los Restauradores at the bottom with the Bairro Alto neighborhood at the upper station.

Round trips cost 3.80 euros or you can just use your daily public transportation ticket again.

Time Out Market

Across from the Cais do Sodre train station is the historic Mercado da Ribeira market hall . It’s been fully renovated and now houses a little paradise called the Time Out Market.

With more than 30 food stalls , you can find everything your heart desires: Portuguese cuisine, burgers, sushi, sweets, and more. If you have a vacation rental with a kitchen, you should also check out the stalls with fresh fish, meat, and veggies.

Prices range from relatively cheap to pretty expensive . Since the Time Out Market has become one of Lisbon’s most popular markets in recent years, it’s earned a bit of a reputation as a tourist trap. We don’t see it that way though. But it’s still a good idea to first check out the different stalls before deciding where to eat.

LXFactory is a little hipster and artist haven outside of Lisbon’s downtown area. On the big factory grounds in the Alcântara neighborhood, fabric and yarn were produced since 1846, until industrial change eventually made its way here too.

Nowadays, the former industrial grounds are home to over 150 restaurants, designer shops, and creatives . Taking a walk around the grounds feels a bit like being in Berlin .

You can grab a bite to eat, shop for clothes and all sorts of designer goods, or just take some great photos. The LX Factory is a great place for photography in Lisbon – there are plenty of photo motifs to capture!

Checking out the website is worth it since cool exhibitions and events are held here regularly.

Alfama and Castelo neighborhoods

Alfama and Castelo blend together so seamlessly that these two neighborhoods feel like they’re one.

While Alfama is one of the most well-known neighborhoods and home to some of Lisbon’s top tourist attractions like Castelo São Jorge and the cathedral, you still get a sense of Alfama’s original flair as a neighborhood for poor fishermen and its history of Arab occupation .

Exploring the narrow streets and letting yourself get lost among the locals is so much fun. Adorable house facades, traditional Azulejos tiles, cool street art, and clotheslines hanging over the streets – you’ll find the real Lisbon life in Alfama.

Bairro Alto neighborhood

Bairro Alto is the nightlife district of Lisbon . You can grab a delicious meal and enjoy a good cocktail to end the day.

It’s particularly appealing to young folks as its nightlife starts buzzing after 9 p.m. and there’s plenty going on.

But even during the day, it’s worth walking through the streets of Bairro Alto. For example, the Rua do Norte has some great clothing stores .

Before the earthquake in 1755, there used to be a palace building with a royal waterfront castle here. Today, you’ll find the huge Commercial Square here, which was rebuilt to impress arriving kings and presidents.

Many tourists hang out here to check out the square and the Arco Triunfal , also known as Arco da Rua Augusta . Oh, and there’s also a lookout platform on the triumphal arch.

If you’re looking for lunch or a coffee, there’s plenty of restaurants and cafes around. Plus, there’s a Welcome Center and an interactive Lisbon Story Center where you can take a fun multimedia tour of Lisbon’s history.

Castelo de São Jorge

The Castelo de São Jorge fortress looms over Alfama. With its battlements, flags, and a whopping eleven towers, it looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale .

Admittedly, the climb up all those steps will have you huffing and puffing. But once you make it to the top, the view of the old town and the Tagus River is simply stunning . Plus, you’re at one of the highest spots in all of Lisbon.

The line for tickets at the booth is always crazy long. So, we suggest getting an online ticket beforehand . If you’re interested in learning more about the castle, you can also book a guided tour.

Ticket: Castelo de São Jorge with tour guide

To the website of Castelo São Jorge

Lisbon Cathedral

The Sé Patriarcal Cathedral is the oldest and most important church in Lisbon. It’s actually a miracle it’s still standing, especially because it survived two earthquakes and a dictatorship.

From the outside, the church looks like a fortress , complete with two side towers. But that makes sense since it was built on the remains of a mosque as a symbol of the victory over the Moorish occupiers.

We don’t usually go inside churches, but since it’s one of Lisbon’s top spots , we checked it out. And trust us, the gigantic nave inside is worth a detour.

If you just want to take a quick look, it’s free. But if you want to see the treasury and sanctuary, you’ll need a ticket.

Closed on Sundays

Panteão Nacional - Igreja Santa Engrácia

It’s one of the most beautiful churches in Lisbon and kind of reminds us of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome . It’s made entirely of white marble and shines bright in the sunlight.

Next to the dome, there’s a big observation deck 40 meters up where you’ll have a great view of Alfama. If your feet are tired, you can take the elevator up.

Fun fact: there’s a saying in Portuguese to describe something that never gets finished: “like the construction of Santa Engrácia”. And boy, did it take a while to build – 350 years to be exact.

Ticket for the Pantheon with fast access

Closed on Mondays

To the website of the Pantheon

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is one of the most important sights in Lisbon and even part of UNESCO World Heritage .

The building seems enormous and the almost 300-meter-long park in front only adds to this impression. Inside, you’ll see elegant decorations and little towers everywhere – it’s beautiful!

The monastery is always busy, so if you don’t want to wait in long lines, make sure to buy your ticket online in advance .

Our tip : The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is located close to the Torre de Belém (#16) and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos (#17) monument. You can easily combine these three tourist attractions in Lisbon.

To the website of the monastery

Torre de Belém

Torre de Belém is a must-see in Lisbon . Located right by the harbor entrance, it was built as a watchtower to protect against intruders .

But it’s not just a tower, it’s more like a small fortress. It has four floors, including a bulwark, a royal hall, a governor’s room, and a chapel.

At the top, 35 meters up, there’s an observation deck with a great view of Lisbon, the sea, and the Tagus River.

To the website of the Bélem Tower

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

If you walk along the riverfront from Torre de Belém, you’ll come across the Padrão dos Descobrimentos. It’s translates to Monument of the Discoveries .

It was built in 1960, marking the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator and to commemorate the age of discoveries .

On the monument, you can see 33 important figures from that time. Although we have to admit, we couldn’t recognize anyone, it’s still pretty cool to look at.

Ponte 25 de Abril

Wait, did we suddenly land in San Francisco? No, but the huge, red suspension bridge Ponte 25 de Abril looks just like the Golden Gate Bridge . No wonder, it was built by the same construction company.

The bridge connects the neighborhoods of Alcântara and Almada and is the third longest suspension bridge in the world , with just over three kilometers. Cars drive on the upper level and trains run below. Unfortunately, the bridge is not accessible to pedestrians, but you can ride on bus line 753 to enjoy the view over the Tagus River.

One of the newer attractions in Lisbon, the Pilar 7 Experience , is a multimedia exhibition that explores the history of the bridge. The highlight of the experience is the viewing platform made of glass , where you stand right next to the bridge.

To the ticket for the Pilar 7 Experience

Cristo Rei Statue

At the southern end of the Ponte 25 de Abril is our next top Lisbon attraction: the famous Cristo Rei statue.

It sits on a 75-meter-high pedestal. The statue itself is 28 meters high, making it one of the tallest structures in Portugal .

Take the elevator up to the viewing platform at the base of the statue: the view of the Tagus River and the city is simply breathtaking and one of our favorite scenic views in Lisbon!

Our tip : We recommend combining your visit to the Cristo Rei statue with a ferry ride across the Tagus. It’s beautiful! Alternatively, you can join a guided tour from the Old Town and don’t have to worry about transportation.

Tour to Cristo Rei statue with boat trip across the Tagus River

8 euros (elevator)

To the website of the Cristo Rei statue

Parque das Nações

The Parque das Nações isn’t actually a park. It’s one of the most modern districts and the business center of Lisbon. With its many glass facades and futuristic architecture, it’s got a big city vibe. But why should tourists care?

Well, the Parque das Nações was created during the 1998 World Expo and you can still find several cool attractions here today.

• Oceanário de Lisboa : One of the largest aquariums in Europe, and home to around 8,000 marine animals, including sharks and rays ( get tickets here )
• Lisbon Cable Car : Take a gondola ride 30 meters above the Expo grounds and enjoy the view of the Tagus River ( get tickets here )
• Pavilhão do Conhecimento : An exciting museum with lots of hands-on science for kids of all ages ( get tickets here )

Most of these attractions are great for families with kids. If you’re looking for more Lisbon tips for kids, check out this article.

Beaches near Lisbon

Need a break from all the sightseeing in Lisbon? Head to a nearby beach for a day of sun and surf.

Many beaches are just a 40-minute public transport ride away. The water may be cold, but during the hot summer months from July to September, it’s perfect.

One of the closest beaches is Praia de Carcavelos . It has 1.5 km of soft sandy beach and great waves for surfing.

A bit further, about 45 minutes by car from Lisbon, is Praia do Guincho . This is a beautiful and quiet natural beach where the wind often blows strong, making it a popular spot for surfers and kiteboarders.

If you’re looking for more tips on beautiful beaches in Lisbon, be sure to check out the following article.

Day trip to Sintra from Lisbon

About 40 minutes away by train is the picturesque town of Sintra . The highlight in Sintra is the Palácio Nacional da Pena , a fairytale castle from the Romantic era. And that’s the perfect word to describe it: the colorful domes and turrets above the forests of Sintra are lovely! The palace is one of the most magnificent in the world.

Aside from the Palácio da Pena, there is still plenty to see, such as the Castelo dos Mouros fortress, the old town, and the Palácio Nacional de Sintra.

Our tip : Sintra is very hilly and if you really want to see the town, you’re dependent on public transportation. We highly recommend a guided tour from Lisbon . That way, you won’t have to wait for buses on site and you’ll also have a transfer from Lisbon.

From Lisbon: Day trip to Sintra

General tips: How to best see Lisbon’s sights

To wrap things up, we want to give you some general travel tips for Lisbon to make planning your trip a bit easier.

#1 Book a central hotel

To see as much as possible of Lisbon, it makes sense to stay in the center. We have some tips for central hotels in Lisbon for you.

Tempo FLH Hotels Petit Lusa

Hotel da Baixa Le Consulat

Memmo Príncipe Real Bairro Alto Hotel

Still haven’t found the right hotel in Lisbon? Then check out these two articles.

#2 Getting around Lisbon

You can reach most of Lisbon’s sights on foot. But if you use public transportation, we recommend the Viva Viagem Card.

You can easily buy the card at the metro station’s ticket machine for 0.50 euros. After that you can either load it with a single ticket (1.50 euros), a day pass (6.45 euros), or credit . With the latter, you pay per trip until the credit is used up. Most trips then cost 1.35 euros.

Just swipe the card over the reader at the start of each trip (and again when getting off if you use the metro).

Note : Unused credit on your Viva Viagem Card is not refundable.

#3 Book a guided tour

We’re big fans of city tours because your guide knows all the coolest spots and insider tips for Lisbon. We can recommend these Lisbon tours.

• Budget-friendly : Group Tour Lisbon – perfect for your first visit, includes all Lisbon highlights
• Private : Private Walking Tour – especially suitable for families and groups, you have your guide all to yourself
• By bike : Bike Tour from the Old Town to Belém – discover even more of the city by bike

Want more tips for city tours in Lisbon? Sure, you’ll find them in this article:

What are your must-sees in Lisbon?

That was our list of the 22 most beautiful sights in Lisbon. Have you been there? Do you know any other Lisbon highlight that we missed on our list? Please share more in the comments, we’re excited to hear about them!

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

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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• 7 Films And Tv Shows...

7 Films and TV Shows To See Before Visiting Lisbon

For many people, to know Lisbon is to love it, the city capturing the hearts of film directors and TV personalities from around the world. Between the friendly yet melancholic locals, the mouthwatering gastronomy and a rich history, there’s no limit to the inspiration that can present itself while walking through its charming streets. To truly appreciate Lisbon and prepare for an imminent trip, watch these movies and shows, which all capture the aura of the city in one way or another.

The night train to lisbon (2013).

Based on the international best-selling book of the same name, The Night Train to Lisbon is a must-see (and read) for anyone who loves romance, drama and mystery. It’s also an excellent way to learn a little more about Portugal’s history, particularly what life was like during the Estado Novo, Portugal’s 20th-century authoritarian government. The plot circles around a Swiss professor named Raimund Gregorius who hops on a train to Lisbon after saving the life of a Portuguese woman and discovering an incredible book.

Amália (2008)

Amália Rodrigues was a fado singing legend in Portugal, this movie essentially being her biopic. It is a firm cinematic favourite among the Portugese, as it captures the life, love and struggles of one of the country’s most admired women. Born and raised in Lisbon, Amália was a pioneer in fado music – nicknamed the “Queen of Fado” – going on to sell over 30 million records during her life.

Capitães de Abril (2000)

To gain a true appreciation and understanding of Lisbon’s Carnation Revolution , watch Capitães de Abril (or April Captains). Filmed in 2000, it explores the days leading up to this historical movement in the 1970s when a military coup, led by Captain Fernando José Salgueiro Maia, ended the dictatorship. As is common in the movies, the film added a little dramatic license to these events and not everything here is strictly factual, but for the most part the film documents history well.

Love Actually (2003)

This romantic web of a movie is about eight couples in London, all with very different situations but who are all connected in one way or another. One of the couples is an English man named Jamie and a Portuguese woman named Aurelia who fall in love, despite speaking different languages. At the end of the movie, Jamia flies to Portugal and proposes to Aurelia in a comical way after learning Portuguese , and she surprises him by replying in English. While all but a few minutes of the film takes place in London, those few from Portugal will make anyone want to hop on a plane and fall in love.

Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations in Lisbon

One of the best things to do in Lisbon is eat, and Anthony Bourdain does more than his fair share of devouring the city’s best dishes. He also captured much of the city’s personality back in 2012, a time when the economic crisis was still having strong repercussions and just before Lisbon became the popular travel destination it is today. This particular episode of No Reservations is highly likely to make anyone hungry!

Lisbon Story (1994)

Catch more than a few glimpses of Lisbon’s streets in this movie about a director who’s recording a film in Lisbon. This fictional story, which was released in 1994, developed after an initial attempt at creating a documentary about the city. Lisbon Story has everything from iconic shots of Lisbon’s famous spots to fado music, intrigue and romance. The film was well received by cinema-goers, with well-established film review site Rotten Tomatoes showing an 86 per cent positive rating.

Mysteries of Lisbon (2011)

Last but not least is the mini-series Mysteries of Lisbon, which offers four 60-minute episodes – later turned into a two part movie – about the lives of a mother and son during the Liberal Revolution of 1820. This series won nine awards, including the Portuguese Golden Globe for Best Film, Best Actor and Best Actress in 2011 and the Satellite Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2011. Mysteries of Lisbon shows a different side of Portugal – an older more mysterious side that is filled with secrets.

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

Top 10 Attractions and 50 Things to Do in Lisbon

The most extraordinary sights and the most memorable experiences.

1. Jerónimos Monastery

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

See the Jerónimos Monastery Visitor's Guide .

2. Belém Tower

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

See the Belém Tower Visitor's Guide .

3. St. George's Castle

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

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

4. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

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

See the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Visitor's Guide .

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

See the MAAT Visitor's Guide .

6. Coaches Museum

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

See the Coaches Museum Visitor's Guide .

7. Parque das Nações

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

See the Parque das Nações Visitor's Guide .

8. Tile Museum

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

See the Tile Museum Visitor's Guide .

9. Ancient Art Museum

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

See the Ancient Art Museum Visitor's Guide .

10. MAC/CCB

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

See the MAC/CCB Visitor's Guide .

40 OTHER MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

Discoveries Monument

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

See the Discoveries Monument Visitor's Guide .

Rua Augusta Arch

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

See the Rua Augusta Arch Visitor's Guide .

Portas do Sol Viewpoint

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

See the Portas do Sol Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint

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

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

Santa Justa Elevator

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

See the Santa Justa Elevator Visitor's Guide .

Santa Luzia Viewpoint

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

See the Santa Luzia Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Ribeira das Naus

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

See the Ribeira das Naus Visitor's Guide .

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

See the Lx Factory Visitor's Guide .

MuDe - Design & Fashion Museum

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

See the MuDe Visitor's Guide .

Royal Palace of Ajuda

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

See the Ajuda Palace Visitor's Guide .

São Vicente de Fora Monastery

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

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

Lisbon Cathedral

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

See the Lisbon Cathedral Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de São Roque

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

See the Igreja de São Roque Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de Santa Catarina

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

See the Igreja de Santa Catarina Visitor's Guide .

Graça Viewpoint

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

See the Graça viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Santa Catarina Viewpoint

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

See the Santa Catarina Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Senhora do Monte Viewpoint

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

See the Senhora do Monte Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Bica Funicular

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

See the Bica Funicular Guide .

Ribeira Market

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

See the Ribeira Market Visitor's Guide .

Docas de Santo Amaro

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

See the Docas de Santo Amaro Visitor's Guide .

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

See the Cristo Rei Visitor's Guide .

Carmo Convent

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

See the Carmo Convent Visitor's Guide .

National Pantheon

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

See the National Pantheon Visitor's Guide .

Basílica da Estrela

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

See the Basílica da Estrela Visitor's Guide .

Fronteira Palace

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

See the Fronteira Palace Visitor's Guide .

Edward VII Park

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

See the Edward VII Park Visitor's Guide .

Jardim do Príncipe Real

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

See the Jardim do Príncipe Real Visitor's Guide .

Vasco da Gama Bridge

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

See the Vasco da Gama Bridge Visitor's Guide .

Pink Street

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

See the Pink Street Visitor's Guide .

Lisbon Museum

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

See the Lisbon Museum Visitor's Guide .

Orient Museum

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

See the Orient Museum Visitor's Guide .

Medeiros e Almeida Museum

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

See the Medeiros e Almeida Visitor's Guide .

Maritime Museum

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

See the Maritime Museum Visitor's Guide .

Tropical Botanical Garden

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

See the Tropical Botanical Garden Visitor's Guide .

Águas Livres Aqueduct

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

See the Aqueduct and Water Museum Visitor's Guide .

Amoreiras 360º

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

See the Amoreiras 360º Visitor's Guide .

National Contemporary Art Museum of Chiado

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

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

Military Museum

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

See the Military Museum Visitor's Guide .

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

See the Lisbon Beaches Guide .

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

See the Sintra Tourism Guide .

Top Places to Stay

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

Complete Lisbon Guide

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

Where to Stay

Hotels in Alfama and the Castle

Hotels on Avenida da Liberdade

Hotels in Bairro Alto

Hotels in Baixa

Hotels in Chiado

Hotels in Príncipe Real

Hotels in Avenidas Novas

Neighborhoods

Avenida da Liberdade

Avenidas Novas

Bairro Alto

Cais do Sodré

Campo de Ourique

Parque das Nações

Príncipe Real

What to See & Do

Top 50 Attractions

Top 30 Museums

Top 30 Viewpoints

Best Beaches

Best Day Trips

Itinerary Advice

Family Attractions

On a Rainy Day

1 Day in Lisbon

Tourist Card

Tourist Map

Most Popular Attractions

Jerónimos Monastery

Belém Tower

Castle of St. George

Ajuda Palace

Coaches Museum

Tile Museum

MAC/CCB Museum

Ancient Art Museum

Pena Palace (Sintra)

Most Popular Beaches

Praia da Conceição

Costa da Caparica

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo

Praia da Ursa

Transportation

Travel Cards

Tram 15 to Belém

Train to Belém

Glória Funicular

Bus 101 to Cristo Rei

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

Airport Guide

Airport Transportation

Rossio Station

Santa Apolónia Station

Oriente Station

Cais do Sodré Station

Sete Rios Bus Station

Cacilhas Bus Station

Portugal Travel Guides

33+ Important Tips for Visiting Lisbon for the First Time

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Tips for Visiting Lisbon’s Top Attractions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy tickets in advance for the most popular attractions.

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

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

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

Shop tickets and tours for visiting Lisbon today!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lisbon’s hidden gems are truly worth the effort.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And, they’re not even all in Lisbon!

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

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

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

Check the Lisbon Card’s prices and inclusions now!

Group your sightseeing by neighborhood.

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

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

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

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

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

… and start at the highest point.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your Lisbon sailboat cruise today!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t expect to be able to walk everywhere.

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

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

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

We’re not exaggerating about the hills.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Download FreeNow for calling taxis.

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

Think of this app as Uber for official taxi rides.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Want a beach town? Go to Cascais.

A stunning hike along the coast? Arrabida Nature Park.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trains are excellent, but taxis are often faster.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Don’t plan a day trip to Porto.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your Lisbon food tour  today!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be cautious with port (and ginjinha ).

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

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

Keep an eye out as you indulge in Portugal!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Make reservations for dinner.

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

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

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

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

… and don’t plan to eat early.

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

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

Bring very sturdy shoes.

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

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

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

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

When it doubt, take a ticket.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn a few Portuguese phrases before visiting Lisbon.

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

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

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

About Kate Storm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks so much, Susanna!

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

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

Hope you guys have a wonderful trip!

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

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

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

Hope you have a wonderful trip!

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The Perfect One Day in Lisbon Itinerary

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: May 19, 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 .

Plan Your Next Trip tp PortugalWith Our Help

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11 Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Stroll through Alfama

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

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

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

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

5. Explore Belém's historic structures

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

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

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

6. Visit Ajuda National Palace

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

7. Take a ride aboard Tram 28

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

8. Spend a few hours at LX Factory

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

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

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

10. Listen to fado

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

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

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

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7 replies to this topic

Lagoa bus station to carvoeiro beach is 6kms, 10 minutes drive. No current seaweed. Taxis are available at the bus station. Uber and bolt also available.

Bus is probably easier. You would have to change train at tunes station then go to estombar which is the closest station to carvoeiro and taxi from there however taxis don't wait at estombar but they do at lagoa bus station

No seaweed on the main beach although you can see it just offshore.

The nearby Praia da paraiso beach and cove is full of weed..

As the sea temperature rises the weed will increase .

Vamus bus 107 times if you need them I have at http://www.algarvebus.info/031.htm

It is on the VAMUS website at https://vamusalgarve.pt/#/pt/vamus%20algarve/routes then under select lines find the 107.

They do not serve Lagoa. Rede Expressos have frequent service from Lagoa to Lisbon.

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Passport to Portugal: Six ways to dive into its culture

May 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Few countries pack as much to do into one small space as Portugal © Giacomo Augugliaro/ Getty Images

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Few countries pack as much into one small space as Portugal . Neolithic carvings, Roman ruins and Moorish castles sit side-by-side with breathtaking mountain ranges, blue-flag beaches, canal-lined cities and enchanting villages.

Summer festivals pop up in otherwise quiet countryside towns and adventure sports alight on the coast and in the mountains, while artisan producers and makers fill shops, markets and homes with farm-to-table meals and hand-crafted wares.

Music, art, history and culture are interwoven into the fabric of the nation, making Portugal more than just a great place to visit – it’s a destination that literally has something for everyone.

Here are some of our favorite ways to take a deep dive into everything Portugalia.

Planning a trip to Portugal? Copy this weekend trip to Lisbon

Catch a Fado show in Coimbra

One of the first things that comes to mind when you think of Portugal is inevitably Fado. This unique music was born in the taverns of Lisbon , followed closely by a second genre of Fado that’s native to the north-central city of Coimbra .

Coimbra is home to the oldest Portuguese-language university in the world (whose dress code helped to inspire the Harry Potter school uniforms), where groups of students would gather in the streets to sing of love, longing and their beloved university.

Unlike Lisboa’s Fado, Coimbra’s Fado is meant to be sung outdoors, not in taverns, and the guitar is tuned lower to better fit the outdoor acoustics. The lyrics are poetic, well-rehearsed and typically more hopeful than the Lisboete style, and performers (who are all male) wear the requisite black university dress and cape to this day.

Catch a show at one of Coimbra’s most iconic Fado houses, like à Capella or Café Santa Cruz .

Delve into Portugal’s artistic traditions

The Portuguese countryside oozes cultural heritage, and you can visit its unique offerings in villages from the north to the south.

Stop by Podence or Lazarim during Carnival to see the Caretos dressed in their iconic colorful costumes or wooden devil masks or head down to Alentejo, where artisan craftsmanship is alive and well. At the local markets – some of which, like the monthly Azeitão Market, are events unto themselves – you’ll see age-old basketweaving, ceramics, leather and tapestry techniques on display (don’t forget to take home some souvenirs).

In the Portuguese art world, quality trumps quantity. You may not find massive art institutions here, but you will find galleries showcasing unique works from the past and present – including homegrown Portuguese legends. Check out the Museu Coleção Berardo in Lisbon’s Centro Cultural de Belém for some of the country’s most daring exhibits; in Cascais , a celebration of Paula Rego – one of Portugal’s finest postwar painters; and in Porto , the cutting-edge exhibits in the art-deco mansion of Sarralves .

From Globus | Art & Soul: Portugal By Design , No matter how you awaken your spirit in Portugal, with complimentary YourChoice Excursions, you choose how to be moved.

Eat your Heart Out

There’s another form of artisanal production that makes Portugal famous – and this one’s edible.

Take a trip through the flavors of the nation, munching on cheese from the Serra de Estrela ; olive oil from Alentejo; or canned sardines from Pinhais in Matosinhos – the only cannery whose process is still 100 percent artisanal (aka, they do everything by hand).

Small batch growers, local artisanal farmers and producers make wine, cheese, olive oil, honey, conserves, sweets and more, all over the country, with each product defining the region it came from.

There’s also wine from the Douro to be savored (or port wine from Porto, should you prefer), Nevadas from Pencova to munch on and the unmissable Pastel de Belém, sold just outside of the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos , where the delectable sweet was born.

Get Outdoors

After all that eating, you might be craving some time outdoors – and whether you’re looking to lie down on a beautiful, blue-flag beach, take a scenic hike through the hills or paddle into the Atlantic’s waters, Portugal’s got you covered.

Surf fanatics should visit the World Surf Reserve in Ericeria , see the WSL event in Supertubos in Peniche or watch the world’s largest wave break from Nazaré’s clifftops.

For those into trekking, take a walk on the breathtaking Rota Vicentina along Alentejo’s southern coastline or hike through the Peneda-Gerês National Park – one of the country’s best-kept secrets.

Beach lovers will of course flock to the Algarve’s sunny shores, but it would be a mistake to overlook the more authentic offerings along the shores of the Silver Coast – the less-crowed stretch of coastline between Ericeira and Porto, where Santa Cruz and Figueira da Foz are two all-time favorites.

From Globus | Taste of Portugal – From Porto to Lisbon, your senses are filled with visions of natural wonder, wonderful wines, tempting tastes and amazing artistry on this escorted tour.

Take in Some History

Now that you’re rested, it’s time to discover a bit more about Portugal’s past – which includes every major player from the Celtics to the Romans to the Moorish Empire. The best Roman ruins are found in Evora , a UNESCO World Heritage city and the capital of Alentejo. Evora’s 2,000-year-old Temple of Diana is one of the most important and iconic ruins in the country – although it’s dwarfed in size by the Roman ruins of Conímbriga , outside of Coimbra.

The Moors had their strongholds further South, where towns like Aljezur (whose name comes from the Arabic word aljezeer , meaning, ‘the island’) and Silves (home to one of the most complete Moorish castles) still bear their mark. In Mertola , near the coast of Spain, there is even an annual celebration of Moorish history and Arabic culture at the incredibly animated annual Islamic Festival. 

Soak in the City of Light

Then of course there is the start and end to nearly any Portugal itinerary: Lisbon, the capital city, aka a Cidade de Luz (the City of Light.) They weren’t kidding, either. Lisbon's postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals is a captivating scene crafted over centuries.

While you’re wandering through Barrio Alto’s narrow streets or strolling along the Tejo River, watch how the light reflects off the azulejo (ceramic tile) covered buildings and dances along the water. Enjoy a spectacular sunset from one of Lisbon's twenty miradouros (look out points), like the Miradouro de Santa Luzia or the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara .

From Globus | Portugal In Depth – From the granules of golden sand to the rich nuggets of history, this enlightening tour of Portugal introduces you to the brightest sights of the country.

Globus Tours connect you to the best of Portugal

Trying to fit all that a country has to offer into one itinerary can be more than challenging, which is why it pays get some help. No matter your interests, Globus Tours has a getaway for you, your family or your group (or can easily personalize or create a bespoke one that fits all your needs ).

Whether you’re looking for a classic Portuguese Escape , are hoping to find the Art & Soul of the country or need an "Escape" from the crowds , it’s easy to let Globus Tours handle the planning while still giving you the flexibility to choose your own activities.

If you have the time, add on the Azores Islands to your trip . Residents of this tiny archipelago have a slower, more friendly, authentic way of living, which makes for an unforgettable end to any Portuguese adventure.

Sponsored by Globus

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This story was crafted collaboratively between Globus and Lonely Planet. Both parties provided research and curated content to produce this story. We disclose when information isn’t ours.

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8 Reasons Why Spring Is The Best Time To Visit Portugal

Check out the top reasons spring is ideal. Travelers can avoid crowds and more if they travel during the best time to visit Portugal.

Sarah Rand • May 20, 2024

Portugal, a southern European country bordering Spain, boasts a rich culture, historic landmarks, diverse landscapes, and welcoming locals. With so many things to do and its unique charm, it’s no surprise that Portugal is a popular tourist destination . However, the ideal time to visit Portugal is during the spring. This season offers many advantages, including pleasant weather and vibrant cultural experiences. Discover why locals and tourists agree that spring is the best time to explore Portugal.

Average Temperature This Time of Year

• 60-80 Degrees F

Spring in Portugal is known for its pleasant weather, typically lasting from mid-March to mid-June. The average temperature throughout the year is around 60 degrees, but spring temperatures can vary depending on the month and region. Northern Portugal tends to be cooler than the southern parts, but generally, you can expect warm temperatures. As with any spring season, expect some mild showers, which contribute to the beautiful blooms around the country.

Travel Tip:  Be prepared for light showers by carrying an umbrella.

Beautiful Beaches

Portugal’s beaches are a major attraction for tourists, and spring is the ideal time to visit. During this season, you can enjoy mild temperatures while basking in the sun, and the beaches are less crowded than in the peak summer months. This means you can take plenty of photos without other people in the background and enjoy more personal space. Some of the best beach destinations include Porto, Nazaré, Cascais, and Madeira, with top beaches such as Praia do Norte, Praia do Camilo, and Praia da Ursa.

Travel Tip:  Sea temperatures can still be cold in spring, so bring a wetsuit if you plan to swim or simply relax by the water.

Cultural Cuisine

Portugal’s culinary scene is vibrant, offering a mix of traditional dishes and modern fusion cuisine. Spring is a great time to experience fresh and seasonal foods. Eating seasonally and locally not only supports sustainability but also allows you to enjoy unique flavors. Some seasonal spring foods in Portugal include rhubarb, artichokes, leafy greens, loquats, cherries, and figs. Be sure to try local staples such as bacalhau (salted cod), pastel de nata (custard tart), and polvo à Lagareiro (octopus).

Travel Tip:  Step out of your comfort zone and try new foods during your spring visit for a rewarding culinary adventure.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is famous for its striking architecture, rich history, and captivating charm. While it is well-known as Portugal’s capital , it offers much more. The city is celebrated for its delicious food, including the iconic pastel de nata. Spring is an excellent time to visit cultural sites like Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and Lisbon Cathedral. The mild temperatures make exploring on foot enjoyable, and the city’s vibrant colors provide great photo opportunities.

Travel Tip:  Lisbon has many hills, so wear comfortable footwear for walking. Alternatively, the tram is a convenient way to get around.

Porto, Portugal

Porto, a coastal city in northwest Portugal, is renowned for its bridges, cobbled streets, port wine production, and 18th-century townhouses. The city is very walkable and boasts chic shops, restaurants, and hotels such as Laranjais Boutique Suites & Apartments, Oporto Street Sá de Noronha, and Porto Cinema Apartments. Porto’s thriving art scene includes attractions like the Museu de Arte Contemporanea de Serralves. A port wine cellar tour is a perfect activity for wine enthusiasts.

Travel Tip:  Visit the gardens at Clérigos Tower for beautiful spring blooms and panoramic views of the city.

Outdoor Activities

Spring is an excellent time to enjoy outdoor activities in Portugal. In addition to swimming, you can take boat tours to encounter local wildlife, such as whales, sea turtles, and dolphins. Guided city walking tours and bike tours of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park are great ways to stay active and explore the country’s natural beauty.

Travel Tip:  Choose wildlife sightseeing tours led by knowledgeable biologists. Azores Whale Watching TERRA AZUL is a highly rated eco-tour operator.

Cultural Celebrations and Festivals

Spring is the best time to experience Portugal’s many festivals, celebrations, and events. The Flower Festival in Madeira, celebrating the country’s biodiversity and beauty, is held throughout May. Portuguese music festivals like NOS Primavera Sound in Porto and Rock in Rio in Lisbon take place in June, offering excellent opportunities to enjoy live music.

Travel Tip:  Pack light layers for early spring evenings, as they can be chilly and windy.

Avoid Crowds and Take Advantage of Lower Prices

Spring is considered the shoulder season in Portugal, offering fewer crowds and lower prices. Hotel rates are typically lower between March and May, making it an economical time to visit. The lack of crowds and mild weather make spring an ideal time to explore Portugal.

Travel Tip:  Carry some cash (euros) as it is more widely accepted, especially in smaller cities.

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Portugal, especially if it’s been on your bucket list. You can enjoy the country’s top features and vibrant culture as it blossoms in the spring season.

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10 Best Places for Fado Music in Lisbon

By Todd Plummer

With its wandering streets, intricate tile work and unforgettable colors, Lisbon by day is one of Europe’s most charming cities. But after dark, the city takes on an entirely new mood—one of mystery and romance, and no tradition better encapsulates the passions running through these city streets better than fado, a music genre so integral to the Portuguese experience that UNESCO recognizes it as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It’s electric, it’s raw, it’s emotional, and it's often one of travelers’ most treasured memories of Lisbon. Whether you’re in the mood for a full-on fado restaurant (where you get a traditional meal served alongside a three-hour-or-longer fado performance), or you’re just in the mood for a glass of albariño at the local watering hole where you can hear up-and-coming fadistas give an impromptu performance, here are some of Lisbon’s most treasured fado hot spots.

Mesa de Frades Arrow

Step back in time with a visit to Mesa de Frades, built in a former chapel in Alfama, with the original tiles and murals still on the walls. The musical lineup toes the line between emerging fadistas and established stars, and the intimate setup offers an otherworldly ambience; performers will walk between tables during their sets, giving you a front-row look at the action, no matter where you're sitting. The experience is nonpareil.

Tasca do Chico Arrow

With ceilings draped with flags and walls lined with portraits—all reminders of the local and national legends who have walked through these doors—Tasca Do Chico oozes nostalgia. This is an intimate bar setting in Bairro Alto, where you're likely to be rubbing elbows—and backs, and feet—with your neighbor. Just go with it; after all, the closeness is all part of the fun. Come here on Mondays and Wednesdays for Fado Vadio nights, when locals and amateurs take the stage.

Clube de Fado Arrow

Since 1995, this candlelit space in the heart of Alfama has enchanted locals and tourists alike. Located just steps from the iconic Lisbon Cathedral, Clube de Fado boasts Moorish influences on every inch, from its arched ceilings to its thick stone walls. The roster is a revolving door of the city’s best singers, including Maria Armanda, Machado Shares, and Maria Ana Bobone; additionally, house guitarist Mario Pacheco is a living icon of the genre. It’s on the pricier end of the spectrum, for sure, but the caliber justifies the splurge, as does the food—don’t leave without trying the signature bacalhau.

Café Luso Arrow

Located in a historic horse stable in Bairro Alto that predates the earthquake of 1755, Café Luso pretty much has history oozing from every inch. There's a beautiful patina on every wall, column, and brick, lending the space a glowing, magical atmosphere and setting the stage for the fabulous music to come. Fado sessions run from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. nightly, with intermissions so guests can converse, order a glass of wine, and move throughout the space.

Kaitlin Menza

Matt Ortile

Kelsey Glennon

Casa de Linhares Arrow

Mystery and romance linger on every inch of Casa de Linhares, a storied fado restaurant, located in a Renaissance-era mansion in Alfama that nearly fell to dust in the great Lisbon earthquake of 1755. But thanks to the enduring tradition of fado, this house continues to be an elegant and refined expression of Portuguese culture. The best of the best perform regularly here, including some of the art's most glamorous singers (Fábia Rebordão, Vânia Duarte, Silvana Peres) as well as charming young guitarists (Bruno Chaveiro, André Dias).

Sr. Fado de Alfama Arrow

There are only nine tables at Sr. Fado de Alfama, a hole-in-the-wall fado restaurant in Alfama, so make sure you book in advance. It's a prix-fixe menu, and owners Ana Marina and Duarte Santos bring out your food. As soon as dinner hits the table, they'll transform from servers into performers—it's really a two-person show here. There's plenty of fado in Lisbon, but very few places still have such a homey, salt-of-the-earth feel, and the owners' hospitality really transforms the experience.

Tasca do Jaime Arrow

A gritty grotto in the true tradition of fado tavernas, Tasca Do Jaime is a local favorite set far from the tourist circuit, not far from the Feira da Ladra market. The singers have been known to improvise and perform spontaneously—not necessarily the most refined expression of fado, but definitely one of the most enjoyable. There are only 24 seats, so either book in advance or show up early; after all, this a salt-of-the-earth experience matched by few other Fado clubs in town.

Senhor Vinho Arrow

Senhor Vinho hosts some of the greatest names in the game, with regular appearances from fado legends like Aldina Duarte and Joana Amendoeira. Because of its esteemed reputation, the club is a bit pricier than other fado joints. It also offers higher-end food, so expect to spend a little more time (and money) here. With traditional Portuguese tiles, antique tapestries on the walls, and white tablecloth, the rustic, yet refined, decor creates an elegant atmosphere.

Adega Machado Arrow

An important fado joint since its opening in Bairro Alto in 1937, Adega Machado has hosted the art form's greatest singers over the decades, including the likes of the great diva Amália Rodrigues. The intimate space is filled with antique furniture and traditional tile work, and you'll be hard pressed to find a more charming fado joint in town. Today, residents include other heroes of the genre including Marco Rodrigues, Joana Veiga, and Isabel Noronha. One thing's for sure: You won't see a bad show here.

A low-key Bairro Alto favorite that draws a local crowd of Fado enthusiasts, Povo is where you go for a spontaneous night. It's also a low-risk introduction to fado because it's inexpensive, there's always a reliable cohort of emerging performers on tap, and the crowd is enthusiastic without being stuffy. There's no cover, and the scrumptious menu of snacks and share plates makes this a great place to stop before or after dinner elsewhere.

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