Lisbon Portugal Tourism Guide

Lisbon Tourism Guide

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

Lisbon, Portugal

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

Lisbon Travel Planner

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

Tourists by the Discoveries Monument, Lisbon

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

View over downtown Lisbon, Portugal

The Best Neighborhoods Know where to stay

Oriente Station, Lisbon

Transportation Guide How to get around Lisbon

Comércio Square, Lisbon

30 Best Viewpoints The Best Views of Lisbon

Beach on the Lisbon Coast

10 Best Beaches The Beautiful Lisbon Coast

Pena Palace, Sintra

10 Best Day Trips Where to Go Around Lisbon

How many days in lisbon.

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

When to Visit Lisbon?

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

10 Things You Should Know Before You Visit Lisbon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lisbon, Portugal

Official Lisbon Tourism Office

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

Search Lisbon:

Complete lisbon guide.

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

Where to Stay

Hotels in Alfama and the Castle

Hotels on Avenida da Liberdade

Hotels in Bairro Alto

Hotels in Baixa

Hotels in Chiado

Hotels in Príncipe Real

Hotels in Avenidas Novas

Neighborhoods

Avenida da Liberdade

Avenidas Novas

Bairro Alto

Cais do Sodré

Campo de Ourique

Parque das Nações

Príncipe Real

What to See & Do

Top 50 Attractions

Top 30 Museums

Top 30 Viewpoints

Best Beaches

Best Day Trips

Itinerary Advice

Family Attractions

On a Rainy Day

1 Day in Lisbon

Tourist Card

Tourist Map

Most Popular Attractions

Jerónimos Monastery

Belém Tower

Castle of St. George

Discoveries Monument

Ajuda Palace

Santa Justa Elevator

Rua Augusta Arch

Lisbon Cathedral

Coaches Museum

Tile Museum

MAC/CCB Museum

Ancient Art Museum

Pena Palace (Sintra)

Most Popular Beaches

Praia da Conceição

Costa da Caparica

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo

Praia da Ursa

Transportation

Travel Cards

Tram 15 to Belém

Train to Belém

Bica Funicular

Glória Funicular

Bus 101 to Cristo Rei

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

Airport Guide

Airport Transportation

Rossio Station

Santa Apolónia Station

Oriente Station

Cais do Sodré Station

Sete Rios Bus Station

Cacilhas Bus Station

Portugal Travel Guides

Lisbon   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Westend61 | Getty Images

tourist information in lisbon

18 Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

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

  • All Things To Do

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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. 

tourist information in lisbon

Popular Tours

Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon

Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon

(3972 reviews)

from $ 105.95

True 4Hour/Half Day Tuk Tuk Tour of Lisbon - Local Overview

True 4Hour / Half Day Tuk Tuk Tour of Lisbon - Local Overview

(2138 reviews)

from $ 144.98

Undiscovered Lisbon Food & Wine Tour with Eating Europe

Undiscovered Lisbon Food & Wine Tour with Eating Europe

(1607 reviews)

from $ 104.83

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

Sintra Sintra free

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

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

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

Lisbon: Half Day Sightseeing Tour on a Private Electric Tuk Tuk

(1907 reviews)

from $ 94.24

Fátima, Nazaré and Óbidos Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon

Fátima, Nazaré and Óbidos Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon

(2260 reviews)

from $ 94.80

Sintra Full-Day Private Tour - A Journey through Wonderland

Sintra Full-Day Private Tour - A Journey through Wonderland

(693 reviews)

from $ 152.79

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

Guided Tour to Sintra Pena Regaleira Roca Boca do Inferno and Cascais

(881 reviews)

Sintra Private Tour: a dreamlike experience

Sintra Private Tour: a dreamlike experience

(355 reviews)

from $ 143.03

Private City Tour: Highlights of Lisbon

Private City Tour: Highlights of Lisbon

(419 reviews)

from $ 163.94

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

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.

tourist information in lisbon

Lisbon to Porto Up to 3 Stops: Óbidos, Nazaré or Fátima, Aveiro

(92 reviews)

from $ 250.93

2 Hour Lisbon Sunset and Wine Sailing Tour

2 Hour Lisbon Sunset and Wine Sailing Tour

(1691 reviews)

from $ 50.19

Lisbon Small-Group Portuguese Food and Wine Tour

Lisbon Small-Group Portuguese Food and Wine Tour

(2187 reviews)

from $ 75.84

Things to Do in Lisbon FAQs

Explore more of lisbon, best hotels.

World Map

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

tourist information in lisbon

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

tourist information in lisbon

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

tourist information in lisbon

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

tourist information in lisbon

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

tourist information in lisbon

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

tourist information in lisbon

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

tourist information in lisbon

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

tourist information in lisbon

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

tourist information in lisbon

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

tourist information in lisbon

7 of the best things to do in Lisbon

Nov 26, 2023 • 6 min read

tourist information in lisbon

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

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

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

1. Visit Belém and its UNESCO-listed monastery

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

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

An older lady stands at a viewpoint looking out over the red roofs of buildings in a riverside city

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

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

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

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

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

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

Two men look at a Renaissance painting in Lisbon's National Museum of Art

3. Tour the city's best art museums

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

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

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

A woman sings while a man plays guitar

4. Don't miss a live fado performance

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

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

5. Taste fresh seafood dishes

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

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

A yellow tram travels down an empty street

6. Ride the historic tram 28E

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

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

Wooden beach huts dot a golden sandy beach

7. Cycle to the coast

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

This article was first published March 2020 and updated November 2023

Explore related stories

tourist information in lisbon

Art and Culture

Feb 28, 2023 • 5 min read

Need help planning your Portugal itinerary? We've got all the advice you need from a local guide form Elsewhere by Lonely Planet.

tourist information in lisbon

Mar 15, 2024 • 8 min read

tourist information in lisbon

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

1840685529

Mar 15, 2024 • 3 min read

Akihabara_shopping_Tokyo_S.jpg

Mar 14, 2024 • 7 min read

tourist information in lisbon

Mar 15, 2024 • 18 min read

tourist information in lisbon

Mar 15, 2024 • 14 min read

tourist information in lisbon

Mar 15, 2024 • 13 min read

tourist information in lisbon

Mar 15, 2024 • 19 min read

PlanetWare.com

25 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lisbon

Written by Paul Bernhardt and Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Paul Bernhardt lives in Portugal and is based in Lisbon.

Lisbon is one of Europe's most beautiful and cosmopolitan cities with endless things to do. Renowned for its warm and sunny disposition, the city is blessed with a wealth of historic monuments, world-class museums, and a host of other fabulous attractions that can easily be worked into a single- or multi-day itinerary .

Belém Tower in the River Tagus, Lisbon

You can explore the narrow streets of the old quarter, stroll the riverbank promenade, or wander through verdant parks and gardens. In fact, enjoy Lisbon like the locals do, at an easy and unhurried pace, and you'll quickly fall for its welcoming character and beguiling charm.

For ideas on the best places to visit while you're here, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Lisbon.

1. Castelo de São Jorge: An Iconic Landmark

2. mosteiro dos jerónimos: built in honor of portugal's age of discovery, 3. oceanário de lisboa: a modern aquarium, 4. museu calouste gulbenkian: a priceless collection of western and eastern art, 5. museu nacional de arte antiga: the national museum of ancient art, 6. museu do oriente: showcasing portugal's presence in asia and the far east, 7. torre de belém: a historic tower, 8. museu nacional do azulejo: dedicated to the art of decorative tilework, 9. elevador de santa justa: an antique elevator with city views, 10. sé: lisbon's imposing cathedral, 11. padrão dos descobrimentos: a tribute to the age of discovery, 12. day trip to sintra, 13. arco da rua augusta: a triumphal arch, 14. lisboa story centre: exploring lisbon's vibrant history, 15. igreja do carmo: one of the city's oldest churches, 16. igreja-museu são roque: a simple church with a richly decorated interior, 17. núcleo arqueológico: an incredible journey through hidden lisbon, 18. museu bordalo pinheiro, 19. palácio dos marqueses de fronteira: the home of a 17th-century portuguese aristocrat, 20. aqueduto das águas livres/mãe d'agua das amoreiras, 21. basílica da estrela: the beautiful star basilica, 22. museu nacional dos coches, 23. museu de arte, arquitectura e tecnologia (maat), 24. time out marketplace, 25. umbrella street, where to stay in lisbon for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to lisbon, frequently asked questions, how do you get from lisbon airport to the city center, when is the best time to visit lisbon, what are some of the best beaches near lisbon, map of tourist attractions in lisbon, more to see and do around lisbon.

Castelo de São Jorge: An Iconic Landmark

The most recognized of Lisbon's major attractions, St. George's Castle commands a glorious position near Alfama on the crown of a hill overlooking the Portuguese capital.

This is one of Lisbon's most popular tourist destinations. Its impressive battlements, engaging museum, and fascinating archaeological site combine to make the castle a rewarding experience for the whole family, and kids especially will love clambering over the sturdy walls and towers that encircle the grounds.

There's been a stronghold on this site since the Iron Age, but it was a castle that the Moors defended against invading Christian forces before finally being overrun in 1147 by Afonso Henriques . The victorious king built the Aláçova Palace , home to subsequent monarchs until a new royal residence was constructed near the river. (The palace foundations form part of the excavations seen today.)

For the most part, visitors are happy enough to admire the fabulous views from the observation terrace that affords an uninterrupted panorama of the city, the River Tagus, and the distant Atlantic Ocean.

For a different perspective, there's a Camera Obscura periscope, housed in one of the towers, which provides viewers with an unusual 360-degree projected view of the city below.

Castelo de Sao Jorge - Floor plan map

A highlight of any Lisbon sightseeing tour, the 16th-century Jerónimos monastery is one of the great landmarks of Portugal, a stunning monument of immense historic and cultural significance deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage Site accolade.

Near the riverfront in Lisbon's attractive Belém neighborhood , the monastery, also known as the Hieronymite convent, was commissioned by King Manuel I in 1501. Built to honor Vasco da Gama's epic 1498 voyage to India, Jerónimos is as much a symbol of the wealth of the Age of Discovery as it is a house of worship (construction was mostly funded by trade in the spices brought back by da Gama).

Star features of the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos include the fantastically elaborate south portal and the beautiful and serene Manueline cloister. Vasco da Gama's tomb lies just inside the entrance to Santa Maria church.

Oceanário de Lisboa: A Modern Aquarium

The Lisbon Oceanarium is one of Europe's finest aquariums and one of the largest in the world. It's also arguably the most family-orientated of all the city's visitor attractions.

Designed by Peter Chermayeff and built for the Expo 98 World Exposition in an area now known as Parque das Nações , the oceanarium is home to a mind-boggling array of fish and marine animals , including dozens of different species of birds.

The ingenious layout represents four separate sea- and landscapes, effectively the habitats of the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Antarctic oceans. These surround an enormous central tank teeming with fish of all shapes and sizes including graceful rays, bulbous sunfish, and sleek sharks — kids' favorite denizens of the deep.

The wraparound plexiglass allows a fantastic close-up view of this magical undersea world, but you should also seek out less obvious, but no less extraordinary species housed in smaller aquaria, such as the exquisitely delicate sea dragon and the comic clownfish .

The different ecosystems are a delight to explore. The Antarctic habitat, for example, showcases playful penguins, while a pair of spirited sea otters steals the show in the Pacific tank.

The Oceanário de Lisboa actively promotes the conservation of the world's oceans, and besides its envious reputation as one of Portugal's most popular tourist attractions , has garnered global praise for its marine environmental awareness campaigns. But most of all, it's seriously good fun.

Address: Esplanada D. Carlos I, Doca dos Olivais, Parque das Nações, Lisbon

Museu Calouste Gulbenkian: A Priceless Collection of Western and Eastern Art

A sparkling gem in Lisbon's cultural crown, the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is also one of the most celebrated museums in Europe. The facility, sited in a lush, verdant park in the north of the city, is named after Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian , an Armenian oil magnate born in 1869, who bequeathed his vast private art collection to Portugal shortly before his death in 1955. Following the terms of this endowment, a foundation was created, the centerpiece of which is this purpose-built arts complex.

Gulbenkian's astonishing hoard features priceless artworks from around the world, which span 4000 years, from ancient Egyptian times to the late 20th century. With so many pieces from so many different periods in history to absorb, you can easily spend half a day browsing the exhibition galleries, but your patience will be rewarded with a mesmerizing journey through one of the finest collections of art on the continent.

Outstanding highlights in the Classical and Oriental Art galleries include 11 Roman medallions , part of a hoard unearthed in Abu Qir, in Egypt, struck to commemorate the Olympic games held in Macedonia in AD 242. The 17th-century Persian and Turkish carpets on display are some of the best preserved in the world and are clear evidence of Gulbenkian's keen interest in Islamic art.

Move through to European Art (14th-17th centuries) and among the Rembrandts, Van Dycks, and other masters is Portrait of Hélène Fourment (c.1630) by Rubens — Gulbenkian's favorite painting.

Amazingly, the rare clocks and timepieces displayed in the French 18th-century Decorative Arts hall are all in perfect working order; arrive on the hour and hear them chime. While here, cast your eyes over the armchair that once belonged to Marie Antoinette .

More paintings and sculptures from the 18th and 19th centuries, where Turner's vivid and dramatic The Wreck of a Transport Ship (1810) holds the eye, can be admired as you move through the building. One room is dedicated to Francesco Guardi and his studies of Venice. Look out, too, for Houdan's graceful Diana , sculpted in 1780.

The tour of the museum ends with the fantastic collection of jewelry and glassware crafted by French Art Nouveau jeweler, René Lalique (1860-1945). None of the brooches and necklaces were ever used, except for the startling and flamboyant Dragonfly woman corsage ornament , worn once onstage by actress Sarah Bernhardt (1844- 1923).

Address: Avenida de Berna 45A, Lisbon

Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga:The National Museum of Ancient Art

The National Museum of Ancient Art is one of Lisbon's great cultural attractions and a "must-see" on any tourist itinerary. This is Portugal's national gallery and houses the largest collection of Portuguese 15th- and 16th-century paintings in the country. An equally impressive display of European, Oriental, and African art adds to the allure.

The museum is set west of the city center within a 17th-century palace, itself built over the remains of the Saint Albert Carmelite monastery , which was virtually destroyed in the 1755 earthquake. Fortunately, the chapel survived and is integrated into the building.

Set over three levels, the extensive permanent collection requires a good two hours of your time. Begin by exploring the aforementioned St. Albert Chapel on Level 1 and then meander through rooms exhibiting Portuguese applied art: furniture, tapestries, and textiles, among other objects, many reflecting the influences of Portugal's colonial explorations. (Look out for the exquisite 17th-century casket from India crafted in silver gilt.)

Indeed, Level 1 houses some truly remarkable works. Notable pieces here include Hans Holbein the Elder's Virgin and Child with Saints (1519) and the beautiful 1521 portrait of St. Jerome by Albrecht Dürer. The astonishing fantasy that is The Temptations of St. Anthony (c.1500) by Hieronymus Bosch is a highlight.

Jewelry, ceramics, gold, silverware, and art from the Portuguese Discoveries all hold the gaze on Level 2, but make a point of studying the fascinating 16th-century Japanese Namban screens that illustrate the Portuguese trading in Japan.

Level 3 is devoted to Portuguese painting and sculpture. The "don't miss" treasure is the altarpiece that portrays the Panels of Saint Vincent , painted in 1470-80 by Nuno Gonçalves , the official artist for King D. Afonso V.

The gardens at the rear of the museum deserve a mention. Fine views of the river can be enjoyed from the terrace, and there's a café where you can relax and contemplate the visual feast just encountered.

Address: Rua das Janelas Verdes, Lisbon

Museu do Oriente: Showcasing Portugal's Presence in Asia and the Far East

West of the city center, near Alcântara, and housing a fabulous collection of oriental art built up by the influential Fundação Oriente , this engaging cultural facility chronicles Portugal's presence in Asia and the Far East.

The permanent exhibition is set over two levels and grouped around several core areas of oriental art, particularly Chinese. Displayed under subdued lighting, but with individual pieces showcased under pinpoint spotlight, the collection takes you on an incredible journey that traces the cultural and trade links forged between Portugal and India, Japan, Myanmar, Macau, and Timor.

An enormous 17th-century teak door from India embellished with iron and bronze greets you on the First Floor and opens the way into a hall that dazzles with artifacts such as the delicate Namban screen depicting Portuguese mariners disembarking from the Kurofune to be met by bemused Japanese locals.

Macau, a former Portuguese colony, is well represented by eye-catching pieces like the suspended boat-shaped cradle (c.1877) made from carved, lacquered, and golden oriental wood, cane, and iron.

Elsewhere, an impressive display of Chinese Ming and Qing-dynasty terra-cotta figurines is placed near a set of forbidding 17th-century Samurai chainmail armor.

But make a point of seeking out smaller pieces, items like the quirky collection of Chinese snuff boxes and the silver alloy bracelets from Timor .

The Second Floor houses the extensive Kwok Collection comprising more than 13,000 examples of figures and mythological beings cut from cowhide and parchment and used by puppeteers in shadow theaters from Turkey to Thailand.

The Orient Museum will absorb a couple of hours of your attention, but if you time a visit for mid-morning, you can pause for lunch in the 5th-floor restaurant and relive the experience.

Address: Avenida Brasília, Doca de Alcântara, Lisbon

Torre de Belém: A Historic Tower

Arguably the most emblematic of all Lisbon's historical monuments, the Belém Tower squats in the shallows near the mouth of the River Tagus as a symbol of Portugal's extraordinary Age of Discovery during the 16th century.

Built in 1515-21 as a fortress and originally sited in the middle of the river (the watercourse has shifted over the years), the tower represents the high point of decorative Manueline architecture . Its ornate façade is adorned with fanciful maritime motifs — all twisted rope and armillary spheres carved out of stone.

Indeed, so valuable and iconic is this monument that it's protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Set over various levels, the most interesting interior feature is the second-floor King's Chamber , where the room opens onto a Renaissance loggia . The royal coat of arms of Manuel I is placed above the elegant arcades.

Climb the impossibly steep spiral staircase to the top-floor tower terrace, and you're rewarded with a fine panorama of the waterfront esplanade and the river.

  • Read More: Visiting Torre de Belém: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

Museu Nacional do Azulejo: Dedicated to the art of Decorative Tilework

Located somewhat off the tourist trail east of the city center, the National Tile Museum is worth seeking out for its unique collection of azulejos — decorative tiles — and the fabulously ornate Igreja Madre de Deus.

Housed within the church and cloisters of the Convento da Madre de Deus , this is the only museum in Portugal dedicated to this historic art form. The permanent exhibition traces the evolution of tile-making from Moorish days through Spanish influence and the emergence of Portugal's own style.

Exhibited chronologically, some of the earliest examples date from the 15th century and are displayed as complete panels of intricate patterns in vivid colors. Portuguese tile work features the more familiar blue and white azulejos , with one outstanding piece, a 36-meter tiled panorama of pre-earthquake Lisbon, one of the highlights of the collection .

Entry to the museum includes access to the 16th-century church of Madre de Deus . Here, visitors are treated to one of the most ebullient and decorative church interiors anywhere in Portugal, a sumptuous Baroque showcase of gilded woodwork, shimmering 17th-century azulejos, and a stunning Rococo altarpiece .

Address: Rua da Madre de Deus 4, Lisbon

Elevador de Santa Justa

Looming somewhat incongruously over the rooftops of Lisbon's Baixa (downtown) district is the odd-looking Santa Justa Lift, a neo-Gothic elevator and the most eccentric and novel means of public transport in the city.

At first glance, its riveted wrought-iron frame and battleship-grey paint conjure images of the Eiffel Tower in Paris , and there is a connection: the French architect Raoul Mésnier du Ponsard , an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel, designed the elevator, which was inaugurated in 1901. It was built as a means of connecting the Baixa with the Largo do Carmo in the Bairro Alto neighborhood, a trendy area of the city peppered with expensive shops, Fado houses, and small restaurants.

Today, it is curious tourists rather than the commuting public who make the 32-meter jaunt to the top, traveling in wood-paneled cabins that still feature the original polished brass instruments. The cabins creak their way to a platform set just below the top terrace. From here, passengers can either exit and walk across a bridge into Bairro Alto or opt to climb the spiral staircase that leads to the upper terrace.

The views from the top are superb and take in a busy urban canvas of pedestrianized streets, picturesque squares, and the omnipresent castle and River Tagus. You can also enjoy a wonderful perspective of the nearby Igreja do Carmo . Expect large queues throughout the summer season. If you just want to ride the elevator but don't want the wait, consider walking up and riding the elevator down.

Elevador da Bica

Another unique form of transport in Lisbon is the Elevador da Bica , a funicular railroad that was constructed by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard and opened to the public in 1892. Today, it still rises above the steep Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo and whisks passengers up to a panoramic viewpoint. The lower station of this funicular railroad is almost hidden behind a facade on the Rua de S. Paulo with the inscription "Ascensor da Bica" (no. 234).

While here, it's worth exploring this peaceful little quarter known as Bica , which runs down from the Calçada do Combro/Rua do Loreto to the Tagus. Only a few cars journey here due to its sloping topography, narrow streets, and densely packed buildings.

Address: Rua de Santa Justa, Baixa, Lisbon

Sé: Lisbon's Imposing Cathedral

In the city's Castelo district near the ancient Alfama neighborhood , Lisbon's fortified Romanesque cathedral — the Sé — has undergone several design makeovers since the original structure was consecrated in 1150 . A series of earthquakes culminating in the devastating 1755 tremor completely destroyed that which stood in the 12th century.

What you see today is a blend of architectural styles, the standout features being the twin castellated bell towers that embellish the downtown skyline — particularly evocative in the late afternoon when a setting sun burnishes the brickwork with a golden veneer.

Inside, a resplendent rose window helps illuminate a rather gloomy interior, and you're likely to head straight for the treasury where the cathedral's most valuable artifacts are on display, items that include silverware made up of chalices and reliquaries, intricately embroidered vestments, statuary, and a number of rare illustrated manuscripts.

It's also worth lingering in the Gothic cloister , not so much for its series of chapels (including one that retains its 13th-century wrought-iron gate), but for the fact that on-site excavations have revealed the foundations of Roman and Moorish dwellings (the cathedral was built over the ruins of a mosque) and the archaeological dig is a worthwhile visitor attraction in its own right.

Lisbon Cathedral - Floor plan map

Dominating the Belém waterfront is the angular Monument to the Discoveries , an enormous monolith that leans over the River Tagus to resemble the prow of a caravel, the type of ship commanded by the Portuguese navigators in the 15th century to chart unexplored oceans and discover new lands.

The design is deliberate. This landmark structure was built in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator . It pays suitable tribute to all those actively involved in the development of the golden Age of Discovery by way of an amazing frieze of statues set along both sides of the monument of the most prominent personalities, figures like Vasco da Gama, Fernão de Magalhães, and Pedro Álves Cabral. Henry himself stands at the fore, caravel in hand.

After admiring those immortalized in stone, you can jump in an elevator and be whisked to the top of the monument for a seagull-eye's view of the riverfront and the surrounding vicinity. Sunk into the esplanade below is a huge pavement compass , a giant mosaic map of the world that charts the locations and dates each new land was discovered. It's one of Lisbon's more unusual photo opportunities.

Address: Avenida da Brasília, Belém, Lisbon

Sintra's Pena Palace

Arguably one of the most rewarding day trip experiences out of Lisbon is a visit to the wonderfully romantic town of Sintra, a direct 40-minute rail journey from the city center. Nestling in the foothills of the rugged Serra de Sintra — a rolling landscape of verdant woodland peppered with outcrops of granite — this enchanting destination unfolds as a scenic picture book of regal royal palaces, mysterious mansions, and a mighty Moorish castle dating from the 8th century.

Set against this attractive canvas is the historic old town (Sintra-Vila), a delightful configuration of colorful and ornate townhouses, decorative cafés, and traditional restaurants wedged along a maze of cobblestone streets and narrow alleys. Once the summer retreat for the Kings and Queens of Portugal, Sintra is deserving of its World Heritage Site status and remains a destination of majestic appeal.

The Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon covers all the top things to do in both Sintra and the former fishing village of Cascais. Explore Sintra National Park, see the stunning Pena National Palace and Sintra National Palace , and enjoy an exhilarating drive along the Atlantic coast on this eight-hour, small-group tour.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sintra

Arco da Rua Augusta: A Triumphal Arch

Lisbon's huge riverfront square, Praça do Comércio , is impressive enough seen from the ground, but it's only when viewed from the Arco da Rua Augusta that its vast dimensions can really be appreciated.

The landmark 19th-century arch lies at the northern edge of the concourse near the southern tip of Rua Augusta, the city's main pedestrianized thoroughfare. Designed by Portuguese architect Santos de Carvalho and built to mark the reconstruction of the capital after the 1755 earthquake, the monument was inaugurated in 1873.

It's only recently that the public has been allowed to visit the top of the arch, where a terrace is surmounted by an allegorical statue of Glory, itself crowning figures representing Bravery and Genius and decorated with wreaths. Below this, an entablature supports additional statues of national heroes, including Vasco da Gama and the Marquês de Pombal .

An elevator deposits visitors near the top, after which a steep spiral staircase needs to be navigated in order to reach the terrace. From here, the view south is majestic and stretches away across the square and over the river. Turn north, and the vista takes in Rua Augusta and Lisbon's entire Baixa (downtown) district.

A mechanical clock on the platform, made in 1941, strikes the hour and half hour. The clock's mechanism, based inside the arch, can be admired in all its intricate detail as can an illustrated panel outlining the arch's own historic timeline.

Address: Rua Augusta, Lisbon

Lisboa Story Centre: Exploring Lisbon's Vibrant History

Located on Praça do Comércio, the Lisboa Story Centre is the first place you should visit if you're new to Lisbon; there's no better introduction to the history of the Portuguese capital than this marvelous interactive cultural center.

The family-friendly facility consists of six zones arranged chronologically and each dedicated to a particular period, or chapter, in the city's history. Clever use of multimedia applications brings each zone to life, with some areas resembling film sets. Narration and dialogue heighten the sense of realism.

Models, paintings, and photos all help to build up a picture of bygone Lisbon, but it's the 4D film depicting the 1755 earthquake that really brings history crashing into your experience. The room shakes and trembles as the disaster unfolds, and the whole episode is frighteningly realistic.

Equally impressive for the way key moments are brought to life is the hologram of the Marquês de Pombal (1699-1782) surrounded by the city fathers poring over plans for reconstruction shortly after the catastrophe.

Address: Terreiro do Paço 78-81, Lisbon

Igreja do Carmo: One of the City's Oldest Churches

The skeletal ruins of the Carmo church are among the most evocative of all Lisbon's historical monuments. Built to an almost exclusive Gothic design, this Carmelite treasure was constructed between 1389 and 1423.

Resplendent with its adjacent convent, Carmo was once the city's most distinguished church. But on the Sunday morning of November 1, 1755, which happened to be All Saints' Day, a devastating earthquake struck the Portuguese capital. The violent tremors almost destroyed most of the building, and hundreds of worshippers perished under falling masonry. The chancel withstood the shockwaves, but the rest of the church was never rebuilt.

Today, visitors can wander the open nave, overshadowed by the surviving arches that bow upwards into the sky. The chancel is now the delightfully quirky Museu Arqueológico do Carmo , where exhibits include a Visigoth pillar and a Roman tomb. Among the more bizarre displays are two ancient mummies lying prone in their glass cases.

The church façade overlooks the picturesque Largo do Carmo in Chiado, the centerpiece of which is the filigree Chafariz do Carmo fountain. Reached easily on foot, the square can also be accessed from the nearby Elevador de Santa Justa.

Address: Largo do Carmo, Lisbon

Igreja-Museu São Roque

The church and museum of São Roque in Bairro Alto combine to offer an absorbing cultural experience — each complements the other.

Founded in the late 16th century by the Jesuit Order, São Roque's bland and unassuming Renaissance façade belies a sumptuous interior, one of the most impressive of all Lisbon's religious sites. Richly embellished with marble, azulejos, and gilded woodwork, the church is celebrated for its series of side chapels, one of which, the Capela de São João Baptista , simply dazzles the onlooker with its ornate decoration.

Commissioned by King João V in 1742, Italian architects Luigi Vanvitelli and Nicola Salvi created a veritable jewel box, built in Rome and shipped all the way back to Lisbon. Adorned with amethyst, lapis lazuli, precious marbles, and inlaid with gold, silver, and ivory, the chapel's centerpiece is the intricate mosaic The Baptism of Christ by Mattia Moretti completed in 1750.

Another chapel, the Capela de São Roque , features the oldest and most striking azulejos , signed by Francisco de Matos and dated 1584. Above all this is a majestic ceiling — the only example in Lisbon of a painted ceiling from the Mannerist period.

The adjacent museum houses sacred art and the most valuable treasures of the church, including those from the Chapel of St. John. A highlight is the Shrine to São Roque , a series of early 16th-century panels illustrating the life of the saint. But spend time, too, seeking out exquisite individual pieces, like the reliquary casket of Saint Francis Xavier made in Goa in 1686 from pierced silver. The ensemble of 18th-century vestments , resplendent in silk and gold embroidery, is a rare collection.

Address: Largo Trindade Coelho, Lisbon

Igreja de Sao Roque - Floor plan map

One of the more unusual visitor attractions in Lisbon is this extraordinary archaeological museum set on and beneath Rua Augusta in the city's Baixa (downtown) district. The museum was built around excavations that had revealed the remains of Iron Age dwellings and Roman fish-preserving tanks unearthed by a building team during the construction of a new bank.

Archaeologists were called in, and as work progressed, more artifacts were discovered, including Roman mosaics, a 5th-century Christian burial chamber, and the foundations of Moorish walls and flooring.

The developers had chosen to build over a site that had been occupied by different civilizations over many thousands of years. Indeed, pottery and coins from the medieval period were also found, and 18th-century foundations were identified. Instead of bulldozing over this fascinating multi-layered treasure trove, it was decided to preserve the entire site by building over and around it.

Today, you can join a free, pre-booked guided tour that begins on the ground floor in the exhibition hall with glass floor panels that allow visitors to view sections of the excavated basement. The history lesson continues downstairs, where you are led through a series of eerie, subterranean galleries designed to showcase that which remained hidden for millennia. By coincidence, the name of the bank is Millennium.

Address: Rua dos Correeiros 9 and Rua Augusta 84, Lisbon

Ceramic work at the Museu Bordalo Pinheiro

At the northern end of the Campo Grande, this wonderful museum celebrates the art of Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro (1846-1905).

The Museu Bordalo Pinheiro is located in a lovely old villa dating from 1912. It contains predominantly ceramics, which clearly demonstrate the caricatural bent of the artist. Figures or faces are portrayed in the form of vases, cups, or teapots.

Much of the work alludes to Portugal's history, and the pieces exhibit a mix of styles. Pinheiro's Art Nouveau bowls and tiles decorated with the reliefs of plants and animals are a highlight, and his figure of "Zé Povinho," a caricature of the typically ordinary Portuguese man, has gained great popularity. Various models of the "Zé Povinho" are on display in the museum.

Address: Campo Grande 382, Lisbon

Palácio dos Marqueses de Fronteira

Tucked away on the northwestern outskirts of the city is this charming country manor house, the family home of the Marquês de Fronteira . Built as a hunting lodge for João de Mascarenhas , the first Marquês de Fronteira, in 1640, it was later refurbished as a palace and remains one of the most beautiful and serene private residences in Lisbon.

Fortunately, some of the rooms in this noble retreat are open to the public, as are the wonderfully landscaped grounds, and investing in a guided morning tour of the premises offers a rewarding glimpse into 17th-century Portugal .

Outside of the Museu Nacional do Azulejo , this is the best place in the city to view 17th-century azulejos . The palace is adorned with outstanding examples of tile work, most notably in the Sala das Batalhas (Battles Room). Here, wall panels depict scenes from the War of Restoration, the long and bloody campaign to rid Portugal of Spanish rule. The detail is staggering and truly brings to life the various battles fought that eventually restored the country's independence from its occupying neighbor.

This is not a museum, and none of the furniture or interior decoration is labeled. Tours, however, are instructive, educational, and discreet and allow access to additional areas such as the lounge, library, and dining room, where unique Amsterdam tiles embellish the interior. Art historians will no doubt spy some notable pieces — look out for the Pellegrini portrait.

Included in the tour are the formal gardens, a verdant oasis embroidered with subtropical flora. Here, you'll find the "King's Gallery," a terrace featuring decorative niches that contain busts of Portuguese kings. It's set above a large pond full of carp.

Similarly, the extraordinary chapel terrace is decorated with azulejo panels illustrating Greek and Roman noble arts, as well as several statues, all of which date from the 17th century.

Address: Largo São Domingos de Benfica 1, Lisbon

Aqueduto das Águas Livres / Mãe d'Agua das Amoreiras

One of Lisbon's great iconic landmarks, the enormous Águas Livres aqueduct started supplying the Portuguese capital with fresh water in 1748 piped from a spring located to the north of the city.

The section spanning the Alcãntara valley is the most impressive of this remarkable 18th-century water system, and until recently, was off limits to the public. However, it's now possible to walk the entire length of the aqueduct just by turning up at the entrance, and the experience is quite edifying.

Actually, what you see only forms a small part of the main 19-kilometer pipeline. Incredibly, its total length, including its tributaries, is 58 kilometers. Construction is based on the principle of gravity: water would flow unheeded at a constant rate, and the gently sloping design of the aqueduct meant that it could be delivered to Lisbon quickly and efficiently.

The imposing central section is the eye-opener. The 35 arches that cross the valley soar up to 65 meters in height above the city. Graceful and dramatic in equal measure, the aqueduct's design signature is a testament to the Italian architect Antonio Canevari and later, Custódio José Vieira and Manuel da Maia , both Portuguese, all commissioned by King João V.

The precious liquid commodity would have been collected at Mãe d'Agua das Amoreiras, a water reservoir located in Lisbon's Amoreiras district, which can also be visited, but separately. Completed in 1745, this solid, bunker-like stone building, replete with Gothic flourishes, resembles a grotto. Water floods the lower levels of the cistern, but above, a vaulted ceiling sprouts from the pillars that rise above the surface.

The gallery is now used as a cultural venue and hosts regular art exhibitions and music concerts. The roof affords fine views across the city.

Basílica da Estrela: The Beautiful Star Basilica

The gleaming chalk-white dome of the Basílica da Estrela (Star Basilica) draws admiring glances from all across Lisbon such is its omnipresence on the city's skyline. The church is one of the capital's grandest and is sited on a hill west of the city center.

Commissioned by Maria I , daughter of King José I, construction of the basilica began in 1779 and was completed in 1790. The limestone façade, embellished with a medley of statues and allegorical figures, is balanced by twin bell towers and is similar in design to Mosteiro Pálacio Nacional de Mafra , though on a lesser scale.

The interior is cool and serene (a real plus on a hot day), and architect Mateus Vicente de Oliveira's and later Reinaldo Manuel's blueprints are translated into a vast, spacious interior of various shades of marble. Standing near the high altar and gazing upwards, the dome resembles a huge inflated balloon bathed in soft translucent light.

To one side is the tomb of Maria I, but what visitors should definitely seek out is the extraordinary Nativity scene crafted in cork and terra-cotta by Machado de Castro . It's displayed in a room that is sometimes locked. If this is the case, ask the sacristan to see it. Outside, opposite the basilica, is the leafy Jardim da Estrela , Lisbon's prettiest park and a great place to visit for a picnic.

Address: Praça da Estrela, Lisbon

Basilica da Estrela - Floor plan map

Housing one of the finest collections of horse-drawn carriages in the world, the National Coach Museum is dazzling in its scope and one of the most visited museums in the city.

Located in the historic suburb of Belém, this is where to admire elaborately decorated royal vehicles, anything from berlins dripping with gilded filigree to dainty sedan chairs replete with crushed velvet seats. Must-sees are the three monumental coaches delivered as a gift by Pope Clement to Portugal in the early 18 th century.

Address: Avenida da Índia, Belém

Museu de Arte, Arquitectura e Tecnologia (MAAT)

A recent edition to Lisbon's enviable cultural offer, the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology amazes from the outset with its extraordinary curvaceous exterior of gleaming white tiles that resembles a just-landed alien spacecraft.

Inside, national and international exhibitions by contemporary artists, designers, and architects, complemented by mind-boggling displays of technological innovation and conceptual work-in-progress greets visitors.

After absorbing this high-tech treat, climb the roof for a breather and uninterrupted views of the river and the city's south bank.

Address: Avenida Brasília, Belém

Time Out Market

One of Lisbon's hot spots for fantastic food (and lots of it!) is the Time Out Marketplace . This wonderfully restored building is home to 26 restaurants and 20 other establishments and shops coupled with a live music venue.

The space is light and airy and encourages lingering with friends and family. With so many dining choices, no one is ever stuck eating what they don't care for. The Time Out Marketplace came to fruition in 2014 and hasn't looked back since. Now, the restaurants here are often written up as some of the best places to eat in the city .

Grab a table inside or, if the weather is nice, take your food to go and munch down in the very pleasant Jardim Don Luis just across the street. Inspired by your meal here and wish you could create it at home? Sign up for one of the regular cooking courses .

Umbrella Street

If you are looking for a photo that screams color and will make all your friends back home envious of your trip to Lisbon, head down to Rua Nova do Carvalho, also known as Umbrella Street.

This short street is a must-see when visiting Lisbon and can easily be combined with a stroll down Pink Street known as Rua Cor de Rosa. The area was once a rough part of town, but the local authorities have cleaned it up and now it's a lively and fun spot, especially in the evening.

Lisbon's main attractions concentrate close to its compact old center, with the Rossio at its heart. At one side of this broad plaza is the Neo-Moorish Rossio Station, with trains to Sintra, and above it, the atmospheric old Alfama rises steeply to a castle. Opposite, the Chiado neighborhood climbs to the Bairro Alto. Together, these areas form the heart of old Lisbon, where restaurants, shopping, and attractions cluster handily, with trams and a landmark elevator to do the hill climbing. Here are some highly rated hotels in these areas of Lisbon:

Luxury Hotels :

  • Beside Rossio Station stands the Avenida Palace , Lisbon's Grande Dame of Belle Epoch style, with glamorous surroundings, a few steps from prime attractions.
  • A block away, the elegant, contemporary rooms of the Heritage Avenida Liberdade Hotel overlook a leafy promenade, offering serenity in the heart of Lisbon.
  • Just behind the cathedral, Memmo Alfama Hotel is a newcomer right on the historic Tram 28 line, with smart design and breathtaking views across the Alfama and river.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Attractive rooms at the boutique My Story Hotel Rossio overlook the plaza's popular cafés.
  • A few steps from Rossio, Hotel Santa Justa is near the iconic Santa Justa Elevator to the Bairro Alto.
  • NH Lisboa Liberdade , in the reliable NH Hotels group, is well located along the esplanade of Avenida da Liberdade, between Rossio and Praca Pombal.

Budget Hotels:

  • Unlike many cities, Lisbon offers a good mix of hotels in its best locations. The 7 Hotel has a prime spot between the Chiado and the grand riverside Praça do Comércio.
  • In the same superb location near the MUDE museum, Brown's Downtown is also close to the Tram 28 line, which climbs to the Alfama.
  • A block off Avenida da Liberdade and Rossio, the modern rooms of Rossio Garden Hotel are great value.
  • Sightseeing: For a relaxing day or two of exploring the city at your own pace, the Lisbon Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is the best option. This 48-hour pass, with buses that depart every 30 minutes, is one of the most popular ways of seeing the city. An audio guide provides commentary, so you get the background on what you are seeing. For something a little more adventurous, try a Lisbon Seven Hills Electric Bike Tour . This is essentially a bike tour without all the work of having to pedal up hills and a nice way to spend 2.5 hours exploring Lisbon.
  • Day Trips: The Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon is a great way to see some of the most spectacular sites Portugal has to offer, from the quaint mountain town of Sintra to outstanding castles, ruins, and natural beauty. This eight-hour trip includes a stop in Sintra and Cascais, Pena National Palace, and a scenic drive along the Atlantic coast. For something a little different try the Fátima, Nazaré, and Óbidos Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon and visit the famous pilgrimage site of Fátima, along with a medieval town and a small fishing village with a UNESCO World Heritage-listed monastery.

Lisbon's Humberto Delgado Airport is seven kilometers north of the city center. The airport is served by a Metro system that runs directly to Lisbon. The Aerobus shuttle departs regularly from outside the arrivals terminal to the city center, stopping at many of Lisbon's bigger hotels along the way.

Municipal bus company Carris operates several buses on a daily basis between the airport and the city center. Taxis, meanwhile, are numerous and fairly inexpensive. They can be found outside the arrivals terminal.

While Lisbon is a year-round destination, spring is an especially appealing time to visit the Portuguese capital. It's not too hot, the city is in glorious bloom, and tourist crowds are manageable. The August vacation period sees Lisbon bereft of locals, and the city can be blissfully quiet. However, many cafés and restaurants shut their doors for up to a month.

Accommodation prices tend to drop in autumn, and the weather is generally pleasant. Expect wind and rain in winter, though it's rarely too cold.

Praia de Carcavelos: One of the finest beaches on the Lisbon coast, Carcavelos Beach is easily reached by train from Lisbon's Cais do Sodré rail terminal. Blessed with a generous swathe of sand and hugely popular during the summer months, Carcavelos is served by numerous oceanfront cafés and restaurants, and several excellent water sports facilities. In fact the beach, recognized for its clean environment by a Blue Flag, is a favored surfing location, and benefits from some top-notch surf schools.

Praia do Guincho: If you're a true water sports fan, it's worth driving the 35 kilometers west out of Lisbon to reach Guincho, a wild and windswept beach set north of Cascais and renowned as a premier surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing destination. Alternatively, you can reach this untamed corner of the coast via train out of Cais do Sodré to Cascais and then hop onto a Scotturb bus to Guincho.

image

Excursions: Day trips from Lisbon to tourist attractions like the Palácio Nacional de Sintra and the Mosteiro Palácio Nacional de Mafra are well worth the effort. And of course, Lisbon's fantastic coastal location means that fabulous beaches lie within striking distance of the city center.

Lisbon Map - Tourist Attractions

More on Portugal

Portugal Travel Guide

view of lisbon from above at monastery sao vicente, one of the hidden gems to see when visiting lisbon tips

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.

kate storm in a blue dress in the monastery of sao vicente, one of the best places in lisbon off the beaten path

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.

kate storm in a red dress in front of the belem tower in sunny lisbon vs porto

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!

cloisters of jeronimos monastery, one of the top attractions to see when visiting lisbon portugal

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.

view from santa justa lift, a beautiful view to see on a 3 days in lisbon itinerary

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 .

kate storm on the rooftop of the monastery of sao vicente de fora lisbon hidden gems

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).

kate storm boarding a train to sintra from lisbon portugal

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!

lisbon tram with tiled buildings to the right and cathedral behind it

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!

cafe in alfama lisbon with the wall of the cathedral in the background

… 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.

kate storm overlooking a mirodouro in lisbon portugal

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).

kate storm and jeremy storm during winter in lisbon portugal standing on the walls of castelo de sao jorge

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.

Campo de Ourique Food Market

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!

view of tagus river from a sailboat when visiting lisbon portugal

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.

interior of church of sao domingos, one of the most unique churches lisbon in 3 days

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).

group of taxis parked in front of lisbon santa apolonia train station

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.

gloria funicular in lisbon portugal painted yellow

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.

santa justa lift as seen from below in baixa when visiting lisbon 3 day itinerary

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.

yellow tram passing throuh alfama, one of the best things to see on a lisbon itinerary

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.

line for taxi stand at lisbon airport arrivals, one of the best lisbon travel tips is that taxis are the easiest way into the city

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.

taxis driving through rossio square during jacaranda season during spring in lisbon portugal

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!

Pena Palace in Sintra, an excellent day trip from Lisbon Portugal

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.

kate storm walking along the castle walls, one of the best things to do in obidos portugal

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!

jeremy storm at cais do sodre train station in lisbon portugal

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.

kate overlooking the sea in cascais, a fun stop during 10 days in portugal itinerary

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.

colorful buildings with iron balconies in graca lisbon, as seen when traveling portugal

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!)

cloister of porto cathedral in porto portugal

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.

kate storm in cascais portugal on a day trip from lisbon

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!

bifana sandwich on a white plate in front of azulejos in portugal

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!

francesinha served in portugal with other food in the background

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.

several glasses on port on a table during a port tasting in porto vs lisbon portugal

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.

person arranging pasteis de nata on a tray, one of the best things to buy in portugal

… 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!

flatlay of pasteis de nata and coffee at pasteis de belem lisbon portugal

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.

Fish Egg Sacs Salad: Taste of Lisboa

… 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.

back garden of atalho real restaurant principe real with a fountain in the foreground

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!

rossio square as seen when visiting lisbon portugal with calcada portuguesa in the foreground

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!

pink street in lisbon portugal with umbrellas hanging overhead

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.

2 yellow trams passing each other on a cobbled street as seen when visiting lisbon portugal

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!

4 photos of attractions to see when visiting lisbon, black and red text reads "33 best travel tips lisbon portugal"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, 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!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Guía turística de Lisbon

Are you planning a  trip to Lisbon ? If you are, you probably have a lot of questions about the city. Our travel guide includes all the information you need to plan a great holiday in Lisbon.

Lisbon Travel Guide

  • General Information
  • Top Attractions
  • How to Get to Lisbon
  • Where to Eat
  • Where to Stay
  • 2-Day Itinerary

Why visit Lisbon?

Lisbon is a fascinating city full of history, monuments, impressive bridges, and vintage street cars. These are just a few of the reasons that make it an extremely interesting city to visit and a place you'll want to return to.

In 2016, Lisbon was ranked number 7 in the top ten European cities to visit . Its cheap flights and relative closeness to major capital cities like Madrid, Paris, and London make it an ideal destination for a weekend break.

Visiting Lisbon is relatively inexpensive, and you can find low-cost flights from the UK for just £ 30 ( US$ 38.40)  and hotels for anywhere from  £ 55 ( US$ 70.40).

Where do I begin?

If you’ve never been to Lisbon before, we recommend you read about its history , followed by its neighborhoods and its top attractions . If you're only in Lisbon for two days, check out our 2-day Itinerary of the city.

Need accommodation?

If you still haven’t booked your accommodation, we recommend checking out the link below, where you’ll find all kinds of hotels, apartments, and hostels with the best rates guaranteed (with up to 75% discount). Moreover, you won’t have to pay until you get to your accommodation.

  • Hotels in Lisbon – Find the best deals online.

Want to discover other places in Portugal?

If you're planning on visiting other cities in Portugal, why not check out our Porto travel guide?

top activities

Lisboa Card The Lisboa Card (Lisbon Card) offers access to over 30 attractions in the Portuguese capital. It also provides free travel for 24, 48 or 72 hours.

On this excursion from Lisbon , we'll visit Sintra , Cascais , Pena Palace , and Quinta da Regaleira – the must-see places on your trip to Portugal!

Day trip to Óbidos, Fátima and Nazaré On this trip you will get to know Fátima, famous for three apparitions of the Virgin Mary, Óbidos, a beautiful medieval village and surfers' paradise: Nazaré

Private Tour from Lisbon Sintra, Fátima, Cascais... Discover the pastoral and monumental in Lisbon's beautiful surroundings, with an exclusive private guide .

Join us on a  free walking tour of Lisbon to take a journey through the city's most iconic spots.   Discover the city of Fado's vibrant past and present .

Évora and Alentejo Wine Region Day Trip Delve into the rich history of Évora, one of the oldest cities in Europe as well as Herdade do Esporão, one of the most famous wineries in Alentejo.

Sintra & Cascais Excursion + Quinta da Regaleira Discover Sintra & Cascais , two of the most magical places in Portugal. The Regaleira Palace , the Natural Park & the area's sweet treats  await!

Segway Tour of Lisbon Medieval Lisbon, a gastronomic tour or a Belém tour... pick your route and discover the best of the Portuguese capital with this Segway Tour of Lisbon

Dinner + Fado Show in Canto do Poeta Don't miss this dinner with a Fado show at Canto do Poeta if you're in Lisbon. Experience  Portuguese cuisine and folklore in the same evening!

Lisbon Cable Car Ticket Discover the beautiful architecture of the Portuguese capital with your ticket for the Lisbon Cable Car - an amazing ride for all!

Night Trip to Fátima + Candlelight Procession On this evening excursion to Fátima, we'll visit one of the most famous Marian shrines in the world and witness the famous Candlelight Procession .

Lisbon Sailing Tour Discover the Portuguese capital from a unique point of view on our Lisbon Sailing Tour. We'll cruise down the River Tagus and see the whole city.

Free Walking Tour of Alfama Immerse yourself in the history, culture and tradition of Lisbon on this free walking tour of the Portuguese capital's oldest district: Alfama .

Lisbon Traditional Product Tastings Portuguese food is an authentic treat! Discover its  traditional products  as we try   delicious   cheese, chorizo and exquisite wine .

Private Tuk Tuk Tour On this tour you will get to know the most emblematic spots in Lisbon in a comfortable and original way: on board a tuk-tuk .

Lisbon Oceanarium Ticket Discover the spectacular marine world and the fascinating water creatures that live in it with this entrance ticket to the Lisbon Oceanarium.

Belém Boat Tour Discover Lisbon from a new perspective on this boat tour : cruise down the Tagus River to the beautiful historic Belém district.

Train Trip to Sintra + Visit to the Quinta da Regaleira Travel by train from Lisbon to Sintra  and visit one of the most beautiful cities in Portuga l and discover the secrets of the Quinta da Regaleira .

On this boat tour of Lisbon , you'll enjoy a cruise on the Tagus River while you admire iconic landmarks such as the Belém Tower or the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Lisbon Amphibious Bus Tour Discover Lisbon's most emblematic monuments from the land and the river without leaving your seat on this unique Hippotrip tour by amphibious vehicle!

Traditional Boat Trip in Lisbon Discover the monuments and landmarks of the Portuguese capital with our fun, comfortable boat trip along the coast of Lisbon on the River Tagus.

Benfica Stadium , also known as Da Luz Stadium , is one of Lisbon's great football temples. Discover the history of the club and visit its museum  on this tour.

Lisbon Walking Tour If it's your first time in Lisbon, what better way to begin your trip than by taking a guided tour in English ?

Fado Show in Chiado Be spirited away by the Portuguese melodies with this fado show  in the Chiado neighbourhood ; one of the most popular areas in the centre of Lisbon

Free Walking Tour of Belem Discover one of the most  well-loved and iconic neighbourhoods in Lisbon on this fantastic walking tour. And even better... it's free !

Lisbon Free Street Art Tour Explore the more alternative side of the Portuguese capital  with this Lisbon Free Street Art Tour. Graffiti, history and charming streets are waiting for you.

Lisbon Tourist Bus The Lisbon Tourist Bus is the best way to explore the city's highlights . Hop on and off at any stop and enjoy panoramic views from the open roof.

Day Trip to Sintra and Cascais + Palacio da Pena On this day trip to Sintra and Cascais , we'll tour two unmissable villages in Portugal  plus the Palacio da Pena , one of the most beautiful palaces in the world.

Lisbon Hills Tramcar Tour + Santa Justa Lift Tour the main monuments of the Portuguese capital in a comfortable and original way on the tourist tram of Lisbon . Let's go!

Sunset Tagus Cruise Sailing down the Tagus at sunset is one of the most romantic experiences you can enjoy in Lisbon . Take in the whole city and its very best views.

Évora & Monsaraz Day Trip Enjoy a city break on this day trip to  Évora and Monsaraz , one of the oldest cities in Europe and a wonderous medieval village !

Private Tour of Lisbon Tour the historic centre of Lisbon with a guide just for you & your partner, family, or friends! The best way to visit the Portuguese capital!

Free Fado Tour of Lisbon Discover the emblematic Portuguese musical tradition of fado on the streets where it was born on this free walking tour of Lisbon .

Yacht Charter with Skipper What better way to sail down the Tagus and enjoy Lisbon than by renting an exclusive boat for you and your partner, family or friends .

Lisbon Electric Bike Tour Discover the best of Lisbon on an electric bike : enjoy a guided tour of the places that interest you the most choosing from four different routes!

Lisbon Pub Crawl Have a fun night out in Lisbon on this pub crawl  – you'll meet new people, party until the sun comes up, and enjoy complimentary drinks!

Rua Augusta Arch Ticket Climb one of the iconic monuments in Lisbon and enjoy the views it offers of the Portuguese capital with this ticket for the Arch of Rua Augusta.

Lisbon Dinner + Fado Show Experience a magical night at this dinner and show at the Associação do Fado Casto . It's a great way to discover the essence of Portugal !

Lisbon Tour with Tickets Explore Lisbon and the Belem district , a beautiful and elegant neighborhood packed with Golden Age monuments which will take you back in time.

Fatima Day Trip Let yourself be enchanted by the mystic Shrine of Fatima and delve into its history on this day trip to the sacred pilgrimage site from Lisbon.

Free Walking Tour of Mouraria & Graça On this free tour explore Mouraria, the neighborhood of Lisbon that saw the creation of fado, and the urban art and viewpoints in Graça.

On this tour, we'll experience Portugal's cultural heritage by visiting four of its most interesting villages : Tomar, Batalha, and Alcobaça.

Lisbon Sightseeing Boat Trip Discover the charm of the Portuguese capital from a new perspective. Enjoy a sightseeing cruise on the river Tagus on this boat trip of Lisbon .

Fado Tour & Dinner This activity includes a walking tour, dinner, and a fado show so you can fully experience the real Portuguese culture in the Alfama neighborhood.

Lisbon Electric Bike Rental Magical Belém Tower, elegant Praça do Comerico, colourful historic houses... explore beautiful Lisbon's most iconic sights on an electric bike .

Lisbon Day Tour Explore Lisbon and get to know all of its neighborhoods in a single day! This walking tour includes tickets to the most important monuments in the capital.

Lisbon Story Centre Ticket Travel through the history of Portugal's capital by visiting the Lisbon Story Centre, an interactive museum that'll give you a complete overview of the city.

Arrabida and Sesimbra Day Trip On this trip, you'll i mmerse yourself in the Arrábida Natural Park , visiting picturesque hamlets & even vineyards - wine tasting included!

Lisbon Sunset Cruise On this magical sunset cruise in Lisbon, you'll  discover the city in a unique way . You'll admire important monuments while you admire an unforgettable sunset.

Tagus River Evening Boat Trip On this Tagus River Evening Boat Trip , you'll see the best views of Lisbon's waterfront at nightfall and the magical sight of the city lit up at night!

Lisbon Layover Tour Layover at Lisbon airport? Take this opportunity and explore the key sites in the capital of Portugal. Belém, Alfama, and La Baixa await you!

Obidos & Nazare Excursion Ancient walls, breathtaking castles, and a Portuguese surfing paradise await us on this excursion to Obidos and Nazare from Lisbon - definite must-sees!

Lisbon Sightseeing Tour Visit the most important neighbourhoods in the Portuguese capital our Lisbon Sightseeing Tour. You'll also learn lots of fun facts from your audio guide .

Join us to discover a different side of  Lisbon  on this tour of Cais do Sodré . We'll walk along the banks of the Tagus and visit  Belém .

Sintra Full-Day 4x4 Safari Fairytale palaces, dreamy forests, dramatic hills and sea cliffs, local cuisine . Explore the best of Sintra and its natural park on this 4x4 tour.

Lisbon Cod + Wine Free Tour On this free cod and wine tour of Lisbon , we'll discover all of the secrets of the 2 Portuguese culinary delights . A food tour you simply cannot miss!

Lunch or Dinner in the Hard Rock Café Enjoy a delicious meal at   one of the most stylish spots in the Portuguese capital : The Lisbon Hard Rock Café. It doubles as a music museum!

Tomar and Almourol Castle Day Trip Discover the charm & cultural wealth of the Templar City with this Tomar Day Trip. We'll admire its 12th-century architecture & Almourol Castle.

Traditional Boat Sunset Cruise Enjoy a stunning sunset with this traditional boat cruise around Lisbon , taking in the most important monuments in the city lit by the day's last light

Lisbon Pilar 7 Experience Ticket Do you want to get to know all the secrets of the 25 de Abril Bridge and enjoy its best views from a panoramic viewpoint at 80 metres height?

Electric Car Rental in Lisbon Discover Lisbon at your leisure behind the wheel of a comfortable electric car , and see the most important monuments and attractions.

Lisboa em Fado Show Ticket Discover Portuguese culture at this show at Lisboa em Fadoa - enjoy a live-music show featuring poetry , passion and love !

St. George Castle Ticket with Audio Guide With this ticket to the famous St. George Castle in Lisbon, you'll learn about the castle's rich history with the help of a fascinating audio guide!

3D Fun Art Museum Lisbon Ticket With this  ticket to the 3D Fun Art Museum Lisbon , you'll enter a world of very fun art exhibitions. It's time to let your imagination run free !

Entrance to the Royal Treasure Museum With a ticket to the Royal Treasure Museum in Lisbon , you'll visit the Ajuda National Palace and awe at the heritage of the former Royal House of Portugal!

Dolphin Watching Cruise Discover the incredible wildlife that lives off the coast of Portugal: enjoy this unforgettable dolphin watching boat trip from Lisbon!

Amália Rodrigues Tour Are you fado aficionado? On this Amália Rodrigues tour , you'll learn the history and career of Portugal's most famous fado singer.

Lisbon Walking Tour + Cruise + Helicopter Ride See  the best of Lisbon  on this complete tour. We'll wander through the streets , cruise the Tagus river and  fly in a helicopter to enjoy the city from above!

In this excursion to Porto , Nazaré and Óbidos we'll see how the ancient buildings of these famous cities still area gateway to their past splendor.

Setúbal Tour + Horse Riding in Comporta In this excursion to Setúbal we'll visit the main attractions of this historic seaside town. In addition, we'll go to Comporta and take a horseback ride .

Fiat 500 Lisbon Tour On this Fiat 500 tour of Lisbon , you'll travel around the Portuguese capital in this classic Italian car from the 1960's . Explore the city in style!

Mesa de Frades Fado Dinner Show Sample the typical flavors of Portugal while being immersed in the sounds of the country's musical legacy with this dinner & fado show at Mesa de Frades.

On this surf lesson at Carcavelos beach, we'll teach you the best tricks to master the waves in a very unique setting . How many waves will you be able to ride?

Wine Tasting at Taylor's Port If you like wine, you can't miss this Portuguese wine tasting in Taylor's Port , a famous wine bar in Lisbon's  Alfama neighbourhood . This is an iconic spot!

Fatima + Santarem Excursion Enjoy the most enriching trip  by visiting two places of pilgrimage and devotion in Portugal : the Fatima Sanctuary and Santarem .

Arrábida National Park Tour + Dolphin Sighting On this tour of the Arrábida National Park , we'll visit the  Lagoa de Albufeira , the Cabo Espichel and the Setubal Harbour .

Belém + Palace of Ajuda Tour On this tour of Belém and the Palace of Ajuda , we'll visit this ancient royal residence and explore  one of the most popular neighbourhoods in Lisbon .

Lisbon Sunset Boat Ride On this  sunset boat ride in Lisbon , we'll admire iconic monuments in the  Portuguese capital   under the golden lights of the sunset . How magical!

Sintra, Cascais, Pena Palace Tour + Cruise Visit the beautiful towns of Sintra and Cascais!  We'll go up the mountain to visit the Palace of Pena and return to the capital by boat.

Lisbon Sightseeing Bus, Tram + Boat Discover all of Lisbon's attractions with this combined bus , tram and tourist boat ticket . You can hop on and off as many times as you want !

Codfish History Interpretation Centre Get to know the origins of the star product of Portuguese gastronomy by visiting the Codfish History Interpretation Centre in Lisbon.

Lisbon Bus Tour + Aquarium Ticket If you're looking for the most comfortable tour around Lisbon and wish to learn all about the marine world . Don't miss out on this trip!

Lisbon Fado Dinner Show and Night Tour Enjoy a spectacular night tour of Lisbon on board a panoramic bus, followed by a traditional Portuguese dinner and a soul-stirring fado show. A must in Lisbon!

Algarve Day Trip On this day trip to the Algarve from Lisbon , you'll travel to the golden beaches of southern Portugal ,  Ponta da Piedade , and the Benagil Caves !

Free Walking Tour of Bairro Alto & Chiado See a new side of Lisbon on this free walking tour of bohemian Bairro Alto and Chiado . Poets and artists flock to these vibrant neighbourhoods - discover why!

Quake Lisbon Earthquake Museum Ticket With your ticket to Quake in Lisbon , you'll enjoy an  immersive experience full of history   that recreates the  earthquake that devastated the Portuguese capital .

Arrabida Jeep Safari & Boat Trip Discover the wealth of nature and wildlife in Portugal enjoying a jeep safari in the Arrabida mountains and a dolphin spotting boat trip on the Sado estuary.

Fernando Pessoa Tour On this tour of Fernando Pessoa in Lisbon, we'll follow in the footsteps of the most important Portuguese poet of the 20th century  to learn about his life.

Obidos Day Trip On this tour to Obidos, you'll walk the streets of this beautiful walled town in central Portugal at your own pace and leisure.

Porto and Fatima Day Trip Discover the enchanting streets of Porto and the mystery of the Sanctuary of Fátima on this full day trip from Lisbon.

Sunset Party Boat If you're looking for a unique evening in Lisbon , then our sunset boat party is the perfect trip. You'll enjoy a live DJ , a dancefloor , and incredible views !

Porto Day Trip Discover the delights of the City of Bridges on this day trip to Porto from Lisbon and visit its most important landmarks and monuments.

River Cruise with Fado Show Experience Lisbon in a unique way on this boat ride with a live Fado show. You'll listen to traditional Portuguese music as you sail the Tagus River!

Berlenga Grande Day Trip The fishing village of Peniche and the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic...Discover the natural charm of the archipelago with this Berlenga Grande Day Trip.

Why read our Lisbon guide?

Lisbon.net is written for travelers by travelers . With our guide you'll have all the knowledge you need, finding out not only what to visit, but equally how to save history such as the origin of the fado.

The information in this guide was updated in August 2022 . If you find an error or something you think we should change, please contact us .

Download the Civitatis app from the App Store

LisbonLisboaPortugal.com

The best independent guide to Lisbon

Home - Top 10 - Undiscovered Lisbon - Where to stay? - Costs - 24 hours - 3 Days - 1 Week - Day trips - Beaches

Lisbon, Portugal; an independent tourism guide for 2024

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

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

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

lisbon portugal

The Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge spanning the Tejo Estuary

Why visit Lisbon?

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

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

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

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

Torre de Belém Lisbon

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

The best experiences of Lisbon

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

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

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

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

sunset Tejo Estuary

Enjoying the sunset overlooking the Tejo Estuary

How long to spend in Lisbon?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

lisbon castle

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

  • Where to stay in Lisbon?

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

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

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

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

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

The map below displays the tourist areas of central Lisbon

Lisbon map

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

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

Related articles: Where to stay in Lisbon?

Parque das Naçoes Lisbon

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

When to visit Lisbon?

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

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

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

Lisbon weather temperature

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

Lisbon sunshine hours sun UV

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

Lisbon rainfall wetdays and rain

The average amount of rain and number of wet days

Lisbon for 2024

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

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

Rossio Lisbon

Rossio plaza is the heart of Lisbon

Are there beaches close to Lisbon?

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

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

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

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

Carcavelos beach

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

Is Lisbon suitable for children and families?

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

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

number 28 tram Lisbon

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

What are the best day trips from Lisbon?

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

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

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

Pena Palace sintra

The magnificent Pena Palace in the Sintra hills

Is Lisbon an expensive destination?

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

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

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

Where to fly into, for Lisbon?

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

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

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

Lisbon airport

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

Is Lisbon Safe?

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

Will Language be an issue?

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

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

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

Should I rent a car while in Lisbon?

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

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

Serra da Arrábida

A car is needed to visit the Serra da Arrábida coastline

Discover more of Lisbon with our most popular guides

lisbon Portugal guide

Home page and introduction to Lisbon

Top 10 Lisbon

top 10 lisbon

What are the best sights and activities in Lisbon?

Secret Lisbon

Secret Lisbon

Hidden gems and authentic experiences of Lisbon

Where to stay?

Where to stay which district lisbon

Which district should you be based in?

48 hours Lisbon

48 hours lisbon

How to get the most from just 48 hours in Lisbon

Dishes to try

lisbon food and meals

Delicious meals and authentic dishes to try while in Lisbon

Lisbon day trips

Lisbon day trips

Lisbon's beaches

lisbon beaches

Lisbon is surrounded by glorious beaches

3 days in Lisbon

3 days in Lisbon

Three days is the ideal time to spend in Lisbon

1 week holiday

1 week in lisbon

Lisbon is outstanding for a longer holiday

Only 24 hours

24 hours in lisbon

Cram all of your sightseeing into a single day!

Lisbon for families

lisbon for families

Is Lisbon a good destination for families?

Baixa district

Baixa district lisbon

The grand and impressive heart of Lisbon

Belem district

belem distrcit lisbon

Iconic monuments and rich seafaring heritage

Where to Shop?

lisbon shopping

Where are the best areas and shopping centres in Lisbon?

Alfama district

alfama district lisbon

A labyrinth of narrow streets hides authentic Lisbon

Lisbon sunsets

Lisbon sunsets

Where to watch the sunset in Lisbon?

Parque das Nações

Parque das Nações district lisbon

The ultra-modern side to historic Lisbon

Alcântara district

Alcantara district lisbon

Lisbon’s trendy and artisan district

sintra portugal

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

Costa da Caparica

Costa da Caparica

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

cascais portugal

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

Lisbon viewpoints

So many romantic and scenic viewpoints

Airport guide

lisbon airport guide

Airport guide and onward travel from the airport

Cost of a holiday

Cost of a holiday to Lisbon

Is Lisbon expensive? What budget to take?

wet day in lisbon

Infrequently it rains, but what activities are there?

Art & museums

Lisbon museums

The culturally rich museums and galleries of Lisbon

Thank you, We really appreciate you visiting our website, but the digital world is changing for the worse.

Independent publishers like us face many new challenges. Search engines now prioritize ads over organic content, and AI replicates our hard work.

If you enjoyed our work, please bookmark our website to easily find us again or share it on social media with your friends and family.

We aim to keep our 1,600+ pages accurate and fully updated. If you spot any errors or outdated information, please contact us at: [email protected]

A complete list of all of our Lisbon articles

Getting started

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

Lisbon's districts

Alfama Belem Baixa District Parque Nações Cais do Sodre Príncipe Real

Sightseeing

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

Transport guides

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

Itineraries

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

Lisbon Trams

  • Tram No. 15

Lisbon's stations

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

  • Lisbon or Barcelona
  • Sousse in November

The Lisbon region

Day trips from Lisbon

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

Central Portugal

  • Berlengas Islands

Portugal Guides

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

North Portugal

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

South Portugal

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

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

uk

The best guide to Lisbon

Lisbon Tourist Information

  • 50 Things to Do
  • Religious Sites
  • Castelo de Sao Jorge
  • Tower of Belém
  • Jeronimos Monastery
  • Arrival in Lisbon
  • Public Transport
  • Train Stations in Lisbon
  • Audio Guides
  • 3 Days Itinerary
  • 1 Day Itinerary
  • Lifestyle Guide
  • Shopping Guide
  • Restaurant Guide
  • Nightlife Guide
  • Guide to Sintra
  • Alfama Quarter Guide
  • Central Hotels
  • Historic Hotels
  • Boutique Hotels
  • Airport Hotels
  • Hotels with A Pool
  • Romantic Hotels
  • Group Hotels
  • Where to Stay?
  • Tours & Tickets

50 Best Things to Do in Lisbon [with Tickets]

tourist information in lisbon

Not only is Lisbon the capital of Portugal, but it also holds the title as the second oldest city in Europe! 

With such an extensive past comes an eventful history, one so vibrant that it matches the rainbow of colored architecture you’ll discover here. 

Lisbon is a city of stories made of dreamers, explorers and artists. It’s cuisine reflects the intermingling of cultures, trade routes and past colonies. It is the birthplace of Fado as well as the beloved pasteis de nata.  

In this all encompassing list, we have compiled the Top 50 things to do in Lisbon which will guarantee you see the best of the city. Pick and choose from our suggestions or even dare to visit them all during your stay in Lisbon. 

Get Lost in the Old-World Streets of the Historic Neighborhood of Alfama

The heart and soul of Lisbon. 

In a city with more than 3000 years of history, this historic quarter has witnessed many events as well as survived the massive earthquake, fires and tsunami which almost leveled all of Lisbon in 1755.  As you walk through the maze of narrow cobblestone streets, it will become obvious that what makes this area special is its persistence to maintain a tight community, keeping generations of residents close, both in regard to proximity and relationships. 

The village-like district begins along the river and quickly ascends into the hills, promising steep stair climbs followed by breathtaking viewpoints.  Get your cameras ready because everything here is picture worthy. It’s a collage of azulejo (traditional tile) covered four hundred year old homes, medieval churches, taverns where fado floats from the window, roman artifacts, burgeoning burgenvilia, one of a kind street art murals, scenes of residential Portuguese life and laundry lines that dance overhead. If you get tired from all the walking, hop on the famous tram 28, which rumbles through the center of the neighborhood about every fifteen minutes, carrying passengers to all sides of the city. 

→  →  Want to explore Alfama and the traditional favorite foods of Portugal? Download our easy to use self-guided audio tour of the Taste of Alfama . 

São Jorge Castle in Lisbon in Portugal

2. São Jorge Castle

Historical castle and citadel established in 200 B.C.

Over the past centuries the landmark castle on the highest hill of Alfama has been rebuilt, strengthened and preserved so that people may enjoy it today. Its location which was intended for defense purposes now offers one of the best views of the city and Tagus River.  

The São Jorge complex includes the castle, ruins of the royal palace, a cistern, ancillary buildings, a spacious terrace, big gardens and eleven towers.  When exploring the premises, do not miss the small door located on the northern wall. This wall was used for secret messengers to pass through, which earned itself the name,  Door of Treason .

  • Address:  R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo 
  • By Tram: 28E exit at  Lg. Portas Sol
  • Discover more about the fascinating past of São Jorge Castle in Lisbon .

Popular Ticket Options:

  • Saint George's Castle: Guided Tour & Skip-the-Line
  • Castelo de Sao Jorge Skip-the-Line Ticket with Escort
  • Tickets for Lisbon Highlights & São Jorge Castle Walking Tour

Best Time to Visit Miradouro das Portas do Sol in Lisbon

3. Portas do Sol Miradouro

I mpressive viewpoint with a popular kiosk.

From the viewpoint balcony, visitors are greeted with a view that stretches across Alfama, down to the Tagus and to the opposite bank of the river. This area is sought-out for postcard worthy photographs as it includes a great shot of   São Vicente de Fora Monastery  and a sea of rusty colored terracotta rooftops. 

Also enjoying the view is the patron saint of Lisbon, Saint Vincent, who has been honored in statue form. The kiosk beside him offers the ideal spot to relax, order a pastry or sip on a chilled glass of fruity sangria. It's common for street musicians to gather here and perform for those nearby or just passing along. It’s a reminder to take a break, grab a seat and appreciate the slow pace of life in Lisbon.

  • By Tram : 28E exit at  Lg. Portas Sol

Graça Miradouro in Lisbon

4. Graça Miradouro

Viewpoint with a thriving kiosk

One of the benefits about exploring a city with as many hills as in Lisbon is that with each slope you climb, at least one view is waiting for you- and the view from Graça is not one to be missed. Situated beside the Igreja da Graça, originally constructed in the 13th century, and above the popular park by the same name, the Graça miradouro is a favorite with locals and visitors and the cafe is always buzzing with customers. 

The viewpoint from Graça offers visitors a chance to see the castle, point out the peeping dome of Estrela Basilica and admire the 25 de Abril bridge. You’ll often find artists here working under the shade of the pine trees, each trying to capture the enchanting magic of Lisbon. 

  • Address:  Calçada da Graça
  • By Tram:   28E exit at stop Lg. Portas Sol

→  Interested in discovering more of Lisbon's best views ? These picture perfect locations will leave you breathless!

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

5. Santa Luzia Miradouro and Church

Viewpoint with stunning church beside it.

The church of Santa Luzia is recognized as a national monument in Portugal which belongs to the Knights of Malta. On the church’s wall you can admire two azulejo murals which depict historical scenes from Lisbon’s past. Painted in blue on glazed tiles are the palace and  Praça do Comércio  before the catastrophic earthquake as well as Saint Luzia and a famous 12th century  battle at Sao Jorge Castle.

While the church is noteworthy, it is the lookout point, the   miradouro, that is truly spectacular. Head to the terrace to be rewarded with a view that stretches as far as the eye can see, making it possibly the most popular miradouro in Lisbon. 

  • Address : Largo Santa Luzia
  • By Tram: 28E exit at stop Miradouro Sta. Luzia
  • Check out the history behind Alfama quarter's viewpoints 

→  Don't forget to check our tickets & tours in Lisbon page.

Lisbon Cathedral in Portugal

6. Lisbon Cathedral

The Biggest and oldest cathedral in Lisbon.

First constructed in 1147 by the Christian Crusaders, the Lisbon Cathedral, also called Se Cathedral or simply Se, was an initiative of King Afonso Henriquez, who defeated the prior Alfama residents, the Moors. The cathedral pushed religion to the center of the Portuguese community and became the site for significant gatherings of the wealthy elite and noble classes. 

Like many structures in Lisbon, it suffered damage from the earthquake and many parts required restoration, resulting in a fantastic combination of architectural styles.  On display are artifacts found in the courtyard, believed to be more than 2000 years old. Be sure not to miss the treasury, which contains jewels, suits, and relics from Portuguese history. 

  • Address : Largo da Sé
  • By Tram:  28E exit at stop Limoeiro
  • Read more about Lisbon Cathedral and Lisbon’s most famous churches and monasteries in this article. 
  • Get your ticket for Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) in advance here!

National Azulejo Museum in Lisbon Portugal

7. National Azulejo Museum

Admire the tiled architecture in Lisbon and discover more at the museum.

Glazed tiles, or azulejos, became popular in Portugal in the 13 th  century, and as the country experienced more outside cultural influence, trade and effects of globalization, the tiles became more colorful and intricately designed. 

Walking the streets of Lisbon can leave one feeling as if they are in an open air tile museum as many buildings are elegantly decorated with them. For a closer look at their history and relationship with the Portuguese, head to the National Azulejo Museum, situated within the former Madre de Deus Convent. The tiles on display tell stories from Portugal’s past with displays of religious art, legends, altarpieces, colorful maps, fairy tales, nature, hunting scenes and rooms tiled from floor to ceiling. 

  • Address: Rua Me. Deus 4
  • Tickets for National Tile Museum (Museum of the Azulejo)
  • Lisboa Card: Access up to 38 Attractions + Public Transportation

Attend an authentic Fado Show in Lisbon

8. Attend a Fado Show

Experience traditional Portuguese music

Fado is the famed music of Portugal which tells stories of history, tradition and of course, heartbreak. It became popular in the 19th century as women sang pain-filled love songs for the men who had gone on seafaring journeys with no certainty of return.

What makes Fado unlike other music and specific to the history of Portugal is that it evokes feelings of melancholia, passion and saudade - the emotion of missing something that no longer exists.  While you can see the music performed all over Lisbon, a walk through Alfama will introduce you to many historic restaurants which organize Fado shows. 

  • Check out our guide to  Nightlife in Lisbon to plan an unforgettable night out!
  • Tickets for the Fado Show "Fado in Chiado"
  • Tickets for Canto do Poeta: Traditional Fado & Dinner
  • Tickets for Associação Fado do Casto: Fado Show & Dinner
  • Tickets for Intimate Live Fado Evening Music Show with Port Wine
  • Tickets for Mesa de Frades: Traditional Fado Show & Dinner
  • Combo Ticket: Evening City Tour, Dinner and Fado Show with Transportation

Sample a Glass of Ginjinha

9. Sample a Glass of Ginjinha

Enjoy a shot of Portugal’s traditional liquor.

The most famous drink in Lisbon is the syrupy red liquor ginjinha which was first served at the traditional bar, A Ginjinha.  It’s made from Morello sour cherries, strong distilled alcohol and copious amounts of sugar.  It’s often served in a chocolate shot glass, which you can absolutely eat afterwards! 

There's not a bartender in Lisbon who doesn't have it on their shelves and you’ll see that some of Alfama’s residents even sell homemade ginjinha straight from their front doors.  Enjoy a glass or two, but be warned- the liquor is very potent.  It's served at almost all of the Top 10 Bars in Lisbon .  

  • Address: Largo São Domingos 8

Eat the World’s Best Seafood

10. Portuguese Seafood Dinner

Indulge in a traditional meal served in a family style-tavern. 

It was under Roman rule that Portugal began to expand as a fishing industry and today, across the city, you will find countless restaurants all serving large dishes of grilled fish and fresh seafood. 

When in Portugal, you must try their salted cod,  bacalhau . It has been part of Portuguese cuisine for centuries and has its roots in their seafaring past as a food preserved for long voyages. The cod is served in hundreds of ways which means you never have to repeat an order! Another favorite is  polvo à lagareiro , a dish of buttery soft octopus served with a side of roasted potatoes. Topped with a heavy serving of regional olive oil and garnished with black olives, it's a meal you'll want to order again! 

  • Check out our list of top seafood restaurants in Lisbon !

Explore Feira da Ladra in Lisbon in Portugal

11. Feira da Ladra

Eclectic flea market with antique dealers.

Organized every Tuesday and Saturday, the open air market Feira da Ladra offers visitors the experience of walking through rows of eye-catching stalls selling every kitsch trinket and household nicknack one could dream of. From recycled clothes to vintage jewelry, handmade art and valuable antiques, you’re bound to find it here.

Originally named Thieves Market , this attraction is popular for those looking to do a bit of shopping, browsing, photography or just grab a coffee and walk. It began in the 13th century and was hosted in different locations around the city before eventually finding its permanent home behind the São Vicente de Fora monastery . Prices at the stalls are almost always negotiable and it offers the perfect opportunity to find something small to take home as a souvenir, such as an azulejo . 

  • By Tram: 28E exit at stop Voz Operário
  • Looking for the best shopping and souvenir ideas in Lisbon ? We’ve got you covered!

National Pantheon in Lisbon in Portugal

12. National Pantheon

Final resting point of many significant portuguese figures 

The National Pantheon is a beautiful 17th century church with a dome that pops out above its neighbors. It took more than 300 years to build and defied a curse which predicted the building would never be completed.

The interior architecture is an example of magnificent artwork with colored marble stonework floors, symmetrical patterned decorations and decor common in traditional Islam.  The viewpoints from the location are fantastic and allow visitors to see as far as the Vasco da Gama Bridge.

  • Address:  Campo de Santa Clara
  • By Tram : 28E and exit at Cç. S. Vicente
  • Tickets for National Pantheon of Portugal

São Vicente de Fora Church in Lisbon in Portugal

13. Church of São Vicente de Fora

Monastery to the Patron Saint

Built in the 17th century, the late Renaissance style church is dedicated to Lisbon’s patron saint, Vincent of Saragossa. The interior decoration of São Vicente de Fora consists of beautiful works of polychromatic marble, azulejo covered cloisters, tiled murals, painted ceilings and sculptures completed by famous Portuguese artists. 

The monastery holds the pantheon of the monarchs of the House of Braganza, the family dynasty which ruled Portugal for 250 years. It includes a fantastic collection of priest's clothing, paintings, gold and sculptures.

  • Address:  Largo de São Vicente

Visiting the churches in the city is one of our suggestions for the Best Activities for Rainy Days in Lisbon .

Casa dos Bicos in Lisbon in Portugal

14. Casa dos Bicos & José Saramago Foundation

Unique architecture and foundation for the Nobel prize winning Portuguese writer.

The 16th century building nicknamed the ‘House of the Beaks’,  stands out among its neighbors with more than 1,000 diamond shaped stone pyramids covering the exterior. The Casa dos Bicos was modeled after Venetian palazzos with a twist of Portuguese Manueline style, seen in the arched windows. 

Head inside and take your choice of visiting either the José Saramago Foundation or the Museum of Lisbon. The foundation includes his personal library, an exhibition dedicated to his life and work, as well as a venue for events and literary discussions.  There is also a garden where you can see the memorial to Saramago- as this is the resting place of his ashes. 

  • Address: Rua dos Bacalhoeiros 10
  • Discover the museum and other top sights in the neighborhood with our Alfama Audio Guide . 

Things to do at the Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon

15. Jerónimos Monastery

UNESCO Monastery dedicated to Vasco de Gama

The 16th century Jerónimos Monastery   honors Vasco da Gama, the first Portuguese explorer to complete the journey to India.  Before setting sail, Da Gama and his crew stayed at the monastery and prayed in the chapel Ermida do Restelo for a successful and safe expedition. 

Jerónimos Monastery is an incredible example of Manueline style and a testament to the wealth and success of Portugal during the Age of Discovery.  It is strongly influenced by a maritime theme and the designs feature discoveries made during empire expansion voyages. Within the monastery are  tombstones dedicated to the greatest explorers, poets, kings and politicians in Portugal, with Da Gama’s tombstone near the entrance. 

  • Address : Praça do Império
  • By Train : Belém Station
  • Discover more about the monastery and Lisbon’s past of exploration with our Audio Guide of Belém . 
  • Tickets for Jerónimos Monastery
  • Lisbon: Full-Day Tour with Jerónimos Monastery Entry Ticket + 24-Hr City Card

tower of belem in lisbon in portugal

16. Belém Tower  

Most famous historical landmark in Portugal.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, Belém Tower commemorates the Portuguese Age of Discovery and belongs to the Portuguese historical sites  known as the Seven Wonders. 

Located on the banks of the river’s opening to the ocean, the limestone tower is built in the Manueline style of the late 16 th  century. It served as both the ceremonial gateway to Lisbon as well as acted as the defense system for those trying the city from the ocean. 

  • Address:  Av. Brasília
  • For an in-depth look at the tower, check out our article on the history of the Belém Tower .
  • Belem Tower Ticket
  • Ticket for Belem Tower
  • Lisbon: Full-Day Tour with Belem Tower & Jerónimos Monastery Entry Tickets + 24-Hr City Card

Monument to the Discoveries Lisbon

17. Monument to the Discoveries  

T estament to the Age of Discovery in Portugal. 

The 170-foot tall Monument to the Discoveries was built for the 1940 Portuguese World Fair. It symbolized the 15 th  and 16 th centuries’ Age of Exploration, led at the front by Henry and Navigator.  

The monument found its permanent resting place along the Tagus River at the point where ships once departed for voyages. It serves as a permanent memorial to the discoveries made by Portugal under the direction of Henry and the overseas expansion that occurred for the country. At the foot of the monument you will see a large 164-foot marble mosaic compass with a world map at the center. 

  • Address : Av. Brasília
  • Explore more of Belém and the city with our Three Day Guide to Lisbon.

Berardo Culture Center in Lisbon

18. Berardo Culture Center

Center for Performing Arts.

The BCC is the largest venue in Portugal for gatherings and hosts different exhibitions, performances and cultural events. It was originally built to host Portugal's presidency of the European Union in 1992 but expanded to become the cultural hub it is today. 

Inside the free-to-enter Berardo Collection Museum are more than 1,800 pieces of art on display, donated by the wealthy Portuguese businessman, Joe Berardo. His impressive collection includes works by Warhol, Miró, Pollock, Picasso, Dali and other modern artists. 

  • Address:  Praça do Império

Interested in art and more cultural attractions? Check out our list of the 10 Best Museums in Lisbon . 

Tropical Botanical Gardens in Lisbon

19. Tropical Botanical Garden 

Seven hectares of lush greenery 

The Tropical Botanical Garden was established by King Charles I in the early 20th century with the intention of preserving rare plants at risk of becoming endangered. The garden was showcased in the 1940 Portuguese World Fair to exhibit what the country had acquired from past colonies.

Today the garden is managed by the Institute for Scientific Research which aims to promote the study of plants found abroad, mostly from tropical and subtropical regions. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the garden and see if you can spot the rare dragon trees! 

  • Address : Largo dos Jerónimos
  • Don't miss any of Belém's highlights with our self-guided audio tour.

Pastéis Belém Lisbon

20.   Pastéis  de Belém

Most famous bakery in the country 

No trip to Lisbon is complete without tasting the country’s prized dish, pastel de nata. Pick up a bag to go or stay for an espresso and enjoy the old-world charming décor of Pastéis de Belém.

The sweet and savory palm-sized pasty is packed with as much history as it is flavor. During the Medieval Ages in Portugal there was a large demand for egg whites which  were used by the convents and monasteries for starching clothes. Faced with the dilemma of unused yolk, bakers began to get creative and eventually the pastel de nata was born! It is the most famous dessert in the country and since 1837 Pastéis de Belém has held and protected the original recipe.

  • Address : R. de Belém 84 92
  • Want to discover more of Lisbon’s famed foods? Check out our complete list of Lisbon's Best Food   or download our audio-guide the Taste of Alfama .

tourist information in lisbon

21. MAAT Museum

World class work of architecture with provoking exhibitions 

Located beside the Tagus river, the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology not only offers a beautiful waterfront view but also the opportunity to experience rotating exhibitions. 

The modern cultural center is a great option for families traveling together , solo tourists or couples. The exhibitions provoke discussion, critical thinking and imagination which engages visitors of all ages. 

São Roque Church in Lisbon in Portugal

22. Church of  Sao Roque

Served the Jesuit community for 200 years before  exile 

Sao Roque is the first Jesuit church in Portugal as well as one of the earliest Jesuit churches in the world. It is one of the few structures that survived the catastrophic events of 1755. 

Built in the 16 th century, Sao Roque was named after the saint who helped heal the sick and victims of the plague. A visit inside surprises visitors with a fusion of architectural styles that radiate with wealth. Above the golden altars is a magnificently painted ceiling with scenes of the Apocalypse. Also on display is rumored to be the most expensive chapel ever built. It was transported from Rome to Lisbon by ship, after receiving the Pope's blessing. 

  • Address:  Largo Trindade Coelho
  • By Tram : 28E exit at Pç. Luis Camões
  • Dive into Portugal’s religious history and discover more about the churches and monasteries of Lisbon . 

Bar hopping in Bairro Alto in Lisbon

23. Bar hopping in Bairro Alto

A night out in the lively district.

Visitors to Bairro Alto are often surprised to see how the quiet and calm streets of the hilltop neighborhood fill with people and music as soon as the sun sets. Boasting a reputation as Lisbon’s party district, Bairro Alto is the perfect place to experience an unforgettable night.

Whether you're in the mood for a fusion food dinner, cocktails on a rooftop,  cheap beers in the street or a live band/DJ to dance to, this is where you want to be. While there are countless places to eat and drink, we suggest starting at Zé dos Bois gallery (ZDP) , which functions as a cultural center, art space and bar that organizes events for music and performance. It's a great location to feel the pulse of Lisbon and from there you can hop from venue to venue. 

  • Address: ZDP, Rua da Barroca 59
  • Looking for more nightlife suggestions? We have you covered in our Guide to Lisbon's Nightlife Scene.

tourist information in lisbon

24. Chiado District  

Ideal for shopping and having your photo taken beside Ascensor da Bica

Chiado is one of the most popular areas in the city for shopping , restaurants and spending time outside. You’ll find all the big name stores and top eateries here, making it desirable with locals and tourists.

One of the most famous attractions of the Chiado neighborhood is the Ascensor da Bica. The funicular carries passengers up and down the steep hills of the city, connecting one district to another. Take a ride on it but be sure to get the transportation ticket in advance to save money. It's mandatory that you capture at least one photo in front of this historic car, but be warned, there will most likely be a line. This graffiti painted vehicle is sought out by almost every tourist in the city. 

  • Address:  Ascensor da Bica, Rua de S. Paulo 234
  • By Tram: 25E exit at Rua De São Paulo / Bica

→ → Chiado is one of the top neighborhoods in Lisbon for hotel bookings.  Find out why!

O Mundo Fantástico das Conservas Portuguesas

25. O Mundo Fantástico das Conservas Portuguesas

Grab a can of Portugal’s famous sardines.

The carnival themed shop of The Fantastic World of Portuguese Sardines is packed with an assortment of vibrantly colored containers each marked with a different year. 

The canned fish packing company Comur prides itself on providing quality products since 1942. All of their goods are assembled by over 100 women who carefully prepare the fish, respecting tradition and history in their methods. You can find more than 30 varieties of canned fish here, some marinated in the most unique spice blends. Each tin is decorated with a lithograph painting of historical significance, making them great souvenirs as well as snacks! Their other stores are The Cannery of Portugal and The Eel Shop. 

  • Address :  Praça Dom Pedro IV 39
  • By Tram: 25E exit at  Pç. Figueira
  • Looking for the Best Shopping and Souvenirs in Lisbon ? We’ve got you covered! 

Rossio Train Station in Lisbon

26. Rossio Station and Plaza

The city’s central plaza and monumental train station.

Rossio Station, where trains depart for Sintra,  is a remarkable example of Neo-Manueline architecture and is essential to see on any visit to Lisbon.  The attention to design that was given to the train station was equally given to the plaza and fountain.                                  

Since the Middle Ages, Rossio Square has been a popular meeting point for locals and foreigners. The name  Rossio actually means “commons,” as this space was considered a gathering area for the common crowds.  Today it draws people in for shopping, dining and photo opportunities. The entire area is paved in a wave-like pattern which was inspired by the country’s relationship with the sea and has two beautiful fountains on either end. Impossible to miss is the column shaped monument dedicated to the King of Portugal and first Emperor of Brazil, Pedro IV.

  • Address :  R. 1º de Dezembro 125  
  • Read on to discover the History of Rossio Station and the role it plays in Lisbon today. 

Things to do at Santa Justa Lift in Lisbon

27. Santa Justa Lift

Wrought-iron elevator with stunning view

The Santa Justa Lift can be seen from many points in the city as it stands at over 145 feet tall. The wrought-iron elevator stretches into the sky, carrying passengers from the ground to the upper area of Largo do Carmo.  

Inaugurated in 1902, the elevator first operated with a steam engine until being replaced five years later with an electric motor. Designed to mimic aspects of the Eiffel Tower, it is as much a practicality as a work of art. At the top of the elevator is a viewing deck which is free to access and provides spectacular views of Lisbon. 

  • Address:  R. do Ouro
  • Discover more about the history of Lisbon's Santa Justa Lift .

How to Get to Praça do Comércio

28. Praça do Comércio

The waterfront central square

Located directly on the waterfront, this grand square is the most popular in the city.  Lined with bars, restaurants, cafes, museums and shops, Praça do Comércio is like the front door through which you pass to enter central Lisbon. 

It was first designed with the purpose of serving as a government district which would regulate the port and customs, giving it the name, Praça do Comércio , meaning Trade Square. In the middle is  a monument to King José I and on the pedestal of the statue is an elephant, which represents the power of the Portuguese empire abroad. 

  • By Tram: 28E or 25E exit at Pç. Comércio
  • Join a self-guided audio tour of Lisbon City Center, which begins here and continues on to the top highlights of the neighborhood.  

Rua Augusta Arch in Lisbon

29. Rua Augusta Arch and Shopping District

The Monumental arch marks the beginning of Rua Augusta street.

Inspired by the designs of Roman triumphal arches, Rua Augusta Arch took over 120 years to complete. The structure commemorates the reconstruction of the city after the tragic 1755 series of disasters.  

Standing at more than 100 feet tall, with pillars reaching almost forty feet high, Rua Augusta Arch is decorated with allegorical statues, national emblems and symbolic motifs. It marks the beginning of Rua Augusta which is the busiest pedestrian street that crosses through the central area of the city. Shopping, restaurants, hotels, boutiques, pastelarias and bars all line this patterned black and while stone street. 

  • Address : R. Augusta 2
  • The Baixa district is one of the most popular neighborhoods for booking hotels. Check out our suggested list of the Best Hotels in Lisbon .

→   Booking an event, conference or wedding? Let out M.I.C.E team assist you with reservations and discounts.

Glória Funicular Lisbon

30. Glória Funicular

Ride the famous tram or have your picture taken beside it.  

Glória climbs up and down the steep hill connecting Praça dos Restauradores to Bairro Alto.  Built in 1885, it was the second funicular to open in Lisbon.

Once powered by steam and illuminated at night by candles, the now electric funicular was designed by Raul Mesnier de Ponsard, the Porto born engineer who had apprectinced for Gustave Eiffel as well as helped design the Santa Justa Lift . If you decide to take a ride on Gloria, you will be met with fantastic views of the city that stretch across Lisbon. 

  • Address : Calçada da Glória 51
  • Getting a ticket ahead of time for Lisbon's Public Transportation can save you time and money. 

Carmo Convent in Lisbon in Portugal

31. Carmo Convent 

Once home to Carmelite nuns, now only the exterior frame remains. 

The Carmo Convent was almost leveled in 1755 but luckily parts of the fabulous gothic style building were able to withstand the earthquake. 

What was once the largest church in Lisbon is now a roofless nave, with arches that form the skeleton of the remaining structure. The church was built between 1389 and 1423 and functioned as a residential site for Carmelite friars as well as held a large library. Centuries later, Carmo Convent served a significant role during the 1974 Carnation Revolution as it was the point of a political standoff. Visitors to the convent can enjoy the structure, the archaeological museum within and an unforgettable view of the heart of Lisbon below. 

  • Address:  Largo do Carmo
  • By Tram : 28E exit at Pç. Luis Camões 
  • The best way to familiarize yourself with the top highlights in the city is to explore with an audio-guide of Lisbon's City Center . Don't miss the history and stories behind Carmo Convent and many more points of interest. 

Tour the Street Art in Lisbon

32. Tour the Street Art

Discover the paintings and recycled art projects around Lisbon. 

The year round ideal weather in Lisbon makes it the perfect city for long walks and touring street art. The walls of Lisbon are home to Portuguese and international artists and boast big works by famous names such as Bordalo II, Shepard Fairey and Vhils. 

Bordalo’s incredible murals made exclusively by recycled materials feature multiple-story sized animals constructed onto building facades. Vhils is known for his signature style of carving portraits into the structure of the building. You can find multiple pieces by both creatives around Lisbon. We suggest visiting Bordalo’s Pelicans beside the Santa Justa Lift and the collaboration of Vhils and Fairy on Rua Senhora da Glória. Another great location to visit are the streets of Largo da Oliveirinha and Calçada da Glória which is the city council sponsored “street art gallery” of the city. 

Walking the city streets and checking out the street art is a fantastic free activity for families traveling with kids in Lisbon . 

Art, Shopping and Great Food in LX Factory

33. LX Factory

Art warehouse district with trendy bars, cafes and boutiques.

Located in a historic and industrial complex, LX Factory has brought new life and energy to once a neglected area of Lisbon. 

LX Factory offers more than just shopping and food opportunities, with unique creative vendors such as an ax throwing bar, rotating exhibitions of experimental local artists, vintage furniture dealers and the bookshop, Ler Devagar, which includes a record section, fully stocked bar and old printing machines. The cool factory at LX Factory is high and its many murals and walls of street art only enhance the ultra urban vibe of the area. 

  • Address:  R. Rodrigues de Faria 103
  • By Train: Exit at Alcantara station 

Don't miss LX Factory or the Top 10 Things to Do in Lisbon during your stay!

Cais do Sodre and Pink Street in Lisbon

34. Pink Street

Lively bar area and popular photo destination.

Rua Nova do Carvalho is commonly known as “Pink Street,” given that, well, the ground is painted bubblegum pink. 

The pedestrian-only Pink Street runs through a tight cluster of bars, cafes and restaurants which overflow onto the sidewalks with little tables placed under the rainbow umbrellas which hang overhead. Aside from partying in Bairro Alto, Pink Street is where you will find music and drinks which last until the morning.  Walk through during the day to have your photo taken on the iconic rua and return at night to see it filled with partygoers. 

This area is especially sought out by those celebrating their bachelorette and bachelor parties. If you're planning a trip to Lisbon to celebrate, make sure to consult with us for reservations and discounts on hotels in Lisbon . 

  • By Tram : 25E exit at R. S. Paulo
  • Convenience is key when visiting a city. Make sure to book your hotel in Lisbon close to the neighborhoods you plan to spend time in.

Oceanarium in Lisbon in Portugal

35. Oceanarium

World class aquarium 

Dive into the underwater world of the Lisbon Oceanarium. A great visit for all and especially those traveling with children, the Oceanarium offers a full day of entertainment.

With thousands of sea life animals on display and one of the largest aquariums in all of Europe, the center introduces visitors to the different species that live in our seas and oceans. Underwater tunnels and massive tanks create the feeling that guests are really in the ocean with the animals. The organization of animals into differing ecosystem tanks allows people to discover their habitats more closely and the variations in ocean life. 

  • Address:  Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº
  • By Bus : Take bus 728 which departs from Cais de Sodré and stops at  Oceanário Lisboa
  • Traveling with kids? No problem. We have a guide for the Best of Lisbon for families ! 
  • Lisbon Oceanarium: Online Ticket
  • Ticket for Oceanário de Lisboa
  • Lisbon Oceanarium: Entry Ticket + 48-Hr Hop-on Hop-off Bus
  • Tickets for Lisbon Oceanarium: Private Guided Tour

Get Wild at the Lisbon Zoo

36. Lisbon Zoo

The Lisbon Zoological Garden is the perfect full day excursion. 

Complete with large mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians and even some water based animals, the Lisbon Zoo is great for a full day of entertainment and excitement. 

Many features make the Lisbon Zoo a suitable option for those traveling with children, such as the full park train ride and interactive exhibits. Opened at the end of the 19th century, it was the first zoological garden to incorporate various plant and flower species with a diverse collection of animals. 

  • Address :  Praça Marechal Humberto Delgado
  • For the best deals on tickets, tours and attractions in Lisbon , be sure to book with us!
  • Get your Fast Track Ticket for Lisbon Zoo in advance, and skip the long lines!

37. Archaeological Nucleus in Rua do Correeiros 

The site of ancient Roman ruins      

Get ready to go underground and discover the history of Lisbon! The ancient ruins contained within this building were discovered in 1991 while the parking lot for the Millennium BCP bank was being built. 

In the underground museum of the Archaeological Nucleus you will discover Medieval and Islamic ruins, artifacts, tunnels, a Visigoth burial site, skeletons and the only Roman mosaic found in the city. Archeologists believe that this area was once an ancient sardine factory from the Roman Ages in the 1st century AD, as they have excavated multiple fish-preservation tanks and baths. 

  • Address:  R. dos Correeiros 9

→  The museum is located just beside Rua Augusta, one of Lisbon's Best Shopping Streets . 

Estrela Basilica in Lisbon in Portugal

38. Estrela Basilica

The iconic domed royal basilica

The Estrela Basilica can be seen from many points in the city as its rococo dome and twin bell towers reach into the sky. 

It was commissioned by Dona Maria I who was the ruling queen between 1777 – 1816 and whose tomb is located here. If you’re interested in a  fantastic view of Lisbon from above, climb the 112 steps to the rooftop balcony to see the city and surrounding neighborhoods from a different perspective.

  • Address : Praça da Estrela
  • By Tram : 28E exit at Estrela Basilica  

Estrela is a fantastic neighborhood just slightly outside of the city's center. Using one of Lisbon's Ride Share apps can help you reach it faster, saving you time during your holiday. 

Jardim da Estrela Lisbon

39. Jardim da Estrela

Star-shaped garden featuring tropical plants

Jardim da Estrela is one of the nicest parks in Lisbon and offers a relaxing day away from tourist crowds. 

Within Jardim da Estrela you will discover two kiosks, located beside quaint ponds filled with ducks, which sell decently priced drinks and snacks. There is an athletic court, walking paths surrounded with diverse vegetation and a large area for children to play. There is also a third kiosk which acts as a small free library in the park. In the summer concerts and arts and crafts markets are held here and the green spaces become full with people coming to picnic, sunbathe, exercise or meet with friends. It was even once the favorite park of Lisbon’s royal family who came to enjoy time with their children. 

  • Address:   Praça da Estrela 12
  • By Tram : 28E exit at Estrela Basilica
  • The kiosks in the park are featured in the complete audio-guide tour to Lisbon's Kiosks ! Download and discover the history and stories behind these green cafes. 

Eduardo VII Park Lisbon

40. Eduardo VII Park

The largest park in Lisbon

This is Lisbon’s largest public park, which occupies almost sixty acres of land. To get the best views of the city, climb to the top of the sloped landscape which offers a clear shot to the river. 

The park was originally named Parque da Liberdade but was changed to its current name after King Edward VII of the United Kingdom came to Portugal in 1902 to improve the relationship between the two nations. The landscaping includes box shaped hedges which have been designed to create a patterned mosaic running up the entire center of the park, large walking paths and multiple monuments to royal and political figures. 

  • Address: Parque Eduardo VII
  • The neighborhood of Avenida da Liberdade where the park is located is home to the most stunning Five Star Hotels in Lisbon . 

Avenida da Liberdade in Lisbon

41. Avenida da Liberdade 

Stroll along the upscale shopping district 

Running directly through the heart of Lisbon, Avenida da Liberdade is a beautiful tree lined boulevard with large pedestrian paths which run alongside some of the most expensive real estate in the city. 

Translated as Liberty Avenue, the promenade was built after the earthquake. It was intended as a large green public space but access was limited to only nobles and the elite- with gates even erected to keep commoners out.  When the government fell from power in 1821, it was  designated as a public space and over the years renovations and additions were added to make it resemble the famous boulevard in Paris, Champs-Elysées. A walk along the avenue will impress visitors with beautiful statues, tropical landscaping, Lisbon’s signature tiled pavement and some of the most elite fashion brands in the world.  

  • The Best Shopping in Lisbon is here and it's not to be missed! 

Sample Foods at the Time Out Market in Lisbon in Portugal

42. Time Out Market 

Hop from stall to stall sampling Lisbon’s greatest foods and drinks

Visiting Mercado da Ribeira, also known as Time Out Market, is a must for all traveling foodies and anyone looking for a great meal or snack. 

Established in 1882 and located within a giant waterfront building, Time Out Market has a variety of stalls selling Portuguese favorites, fusion foods and vegan and vegetarian options . There are more than thirty options to choose from, which range from restaurants to bars, coffee shops with pastries and stalls selling fresh produce, fish, meats, cheese and flowers. Everything is made from the freshest ingredients and local products, resulting in both sustainable and healthy options for a meal. There are many stalls run by famous Portuguese chefs and a handful of the food options have  been voted best in the city, so take some time to wander down the different aisles, checking your options before making a fast choice. 

Address : Av. 24 de Julho 49

Portugal is home to a culinary culture rich in history. For guidance on what to eat and where, check out our list of the Best Restaurants in Lisbon . 

Ribeira das Naus Kiosk in Lisbon

43. Ribeira das Naus Kiosk 

Situated along the Tagus River  

It's almost impossible to beat the location of Ribeira das Naus Kiosk. Just feet from the river side, chairs and tables are arranged under huge umbrellas, lounge chairs are set directly looking at the river and bridge and dangling strings of bulb lighting twinkle above as the sun sets, creating the most romantic atmosphere.          

Located only a few minutes from the main train station and city center, Praça do Comércio, the kiosk is easy to reach and often draws a crowd as live music and DJs are set up during summer. Watch the sailboats glide by, sip a delicious aperol spritz and soak in the unbelievably good weather that Lisbon is known for.        

                    

  • Address : Av. Ribeira das Naus 5
  • Known for its relaxing atmosphere and slow pace of life, Lisbon's Lifestyle is one to be embraced. 

Hop On and Off the Trams in Lisbon

44. Tram 28E

The most widely recognized symbol of Lisbon

The iconic 1930s tram is an image that comes to mind when people think about Lisbon. At almost all hours of the day or night it rambles through the narrow streets of the most popular neighborhoods, making a loop that takes about an hour to cover.

A ticket can be purchased ahead of time or on board. Make sure to carry at least 3 euros worth of pocket change with you to make the transaction quick and easy. Riding the Tram 28E is a classic experience when visiting Lisbon, and can be done as a means of getting from one popular district to another, or just as a ride to enjoy the view. The interior has been maintained to resemble the authentic designs and the ride is as bumpy and full of jolts and halting stops as it was almost 100 years ago.  

One of the best ways to explore Lisbon is with a self-guided audio tour . Easily download one and jump on and off the tram, discovering the best sights in the city at your own pace. 

Monsanto Forest Park Lisbon

45. Monsanto Forest Park

Sprawling park located outside the city with a popular view point 

Covering more than 120 acres (50 hectares) Monsanto Forest Park offers a full day in nature. There are walking paths, recreational areas, a children’s amusement park, picnicking spots, a palace, various playgrounds and even campgrounds.

Monsanto Park is an ideal half day trip for anyone traveling with kids as it has, by far, the greatest playgrounds in Lisbon. For those who enjoy biking, Monsanto also offers a variety of biking paths. At the top of the park is a popular lookout area, the Panoramico de Monsanto, which offers not only a sweeping view but also a photo opt for those who enjoy graffiti and abandoned buildings. 

  • The best way to reach Monsanto is either with a ride sharing app or with Lisbon's public buses . 

tourist information in lisbon

An unmissable day trip out of Lisbon

If you love mountain top palaces, colorful extravagant architecture, fairytale like castles, overgrown gardens and breathtaking views then Sintra cannot be skipped. Located a short distance outside of Lisbon, it can easily be reached by car or public transportation and is an unforgettable way to spend a day.

The historic town is a very popular destination and many tours are offered to help you make the most of your time here. Some of the highlights of Sintra that we suggest seeing are the National Palace of Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira, Pena Palace, the historic village and Castelo dos Mouros. 

  • By Train : There is a train that leaves from Rossio Station every 40 minutes that goes directly to Sintra.
  • There is a lot to see in their majestic little town and our Guide to Sintra will guarantee you discover it all!
  • Tickets for Pena-Palast and Park
  • Pena Park in Sintra: Entry Ticket
  • Tickets for Sintra, Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira: Day Trip from Lisbon
  • Tickets for Pena Palace: Guided Visit with Transfer from Lisbon
  • Tickets for Castle of the Moors: Skip The Line
  • Tickets for Quinta da Regaleira: Skip-the-Line & Guided Tour
  • The Lisbon-Sintra Pass

tourist information in lisbon

47. Scenic train to Cascais

Coastal train which takes passengers to all the beach towns from Lisbon to Casicas. 

Departing from Cais do Sodre, the central train station in Lisbon for above ground travel, a train leaves for Casicas about  every 20 minutes. Cascias, the upscale beach town at the end of the line, is popular with summer visitors and expats with its exquisite beach lined mansions and castles. 

The train ticket, which can be purchased for a single ride or on the prepaid card costs only a few euros and rewards with one of the most beautiful journeys. The line includes 17 stops with more than 10 of them dropping you off at different beaches along the way. If you decide to take the train to the last stop, Cascias, expect to be on board for about 40 minutes. Cascias was once the summer getaway for the nobility of Portugal and while it no longer is, you can still expect to be met with some of the finest restraints, most impressive villas and high end shopping options. 

For easy traveling, follow our guide to Traveling from Lisbon to Cascais . 

  • Tickets for Sintra, Cascais & Cabo da Roca: Guided Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon
  • Tickets for Cascais, Pena Palace Park & Quinta da Regaleira: Day Trip from Lisbon

48. Casa Fernando Pessoa

The home of the famous Portuguese writer

Encompassing three floors of a gorgeous historical building, the museum and home of Fernando Pessoa is on display. It was his residence during the last decade and a half of his life, but became open to the public to view the belongings and poetry of Portugal’s most famous writer.

The exhibits are creativity displayed and intertwine language with art, design and imagination. It’s a powerful work of literary tribute and offers visitors the chance to acquaint themselves with Pessoa as well as explore the global library within the home. 

  • Address:  R. Coelho da Rocha 16 18
  • By Tram : 25E or 28E exit at  R. Saraiva Carvalho

49. Pastelaria Versailles

Break with a standing espresso and enjoy a coffee the way the locals do

In Lisbon you will quickly notice that many of the Portuguese take their espressos, coffee or breakfast standing at the counter of the pastelaria. Below the glass countertop is a display window with a spectrum of sweet breads to savory finger foods.

Ordering while standing at the long, generally L-shaped counter in Lisbon is tradition, so find a spot and ask for your choice of goodie. You’re bound to find a pastelaria on every street in the city and we suggest visiting the historic Pastelaria Versailles, which opened its doors in 1922. 

  • Address: Av. da República 15 A
  • With a cafe culture that's prevalent everywhere you look, this is just one of Lisbon's Best Cafes.  

National Museum of Ancient Art Lisbon

50. National Museum of Ancient Art

A vast collection of art representing Portuguese history

Step inside a stunning work of architecture at the National Museum of Ancient Art and explore the treasures that define Portugal's past. 

Objects from the Middle Ages to the 19th century demonstrate the global reach the country had and the wealth that was acquired and invested in art. After visiting the museum enjoy the back garden and cafe with a large terrace that overlooks the river. 

  • Address : R. das Janelas Verdes

Book your vacation at one of Lisbon's Best Boutique Hotels and stay only steps away from the National Museum of Ancient Art.

  • Tickets for National Museum of Ancient Art Lisbon

Lisbon Tours & Tickets

Discover Lisbon today with the most popular tours & tickets without standing in line.

Related Articles:

10 best-rated museums in lisbon, 15 things to do on a rainy day in lisbon, 15 things to do with kids in lisbon, best-of lisbon in 3 days itinerary.

  • teilen    
  • teilen  
  • merken    

GoLisbon - Lisbon Tourism Guide

  • Top 10 Attractions
  • Sightseeing
  • LGBT Lisbon
  • Public Transportation
  • Stations and Hubs
  • Airport Transportation
  • Car Rentals
  • Restaurants

LISBON TOURISM GUIDE

Discovering the city of the sea; the city of the explorers.

Lisbon, Portugal

EUROPE STARTS HERE - Welcome to Europe's West Coast!

Lisbon is Europe's second-oldest capital (after Athens), once home to the world's greatest explorers, like Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Prince Henry the Navigator, becoming the first true world city, the capital of an empire spreading over all continents -- from South America (Brazil) to Asia (Macao, China; Goa, India). The former launch pad for many of the world's greatest voyages is now where modern travelers discover... : ...one of Europe's most soulful , captivating and picturesque capitals, built on a series of hills with scenic vistas from every angle. ...the city of the oceans, the only European capital with sunsets on the sea , so close to sandy beaches and with one of the world's largest state-of-the-art aquariums . ...one of the world's greatest natural harbors which attracted different civilizations, now reflected in its architecture and culture recalling Phoenicians, Celts, Romans, Visigoths and Moors. ...a charming visual time-warp with vintage trams and medieval village-like neighborhoods . ...a lively but serene and melancholic place with an insatiable appetite for long dinners, coffee breaks and nightlife . ... World Heritage monuments and singular museum treasures, from international design and contemporary art, to treasures from when the East met West, to the ancient art of tile painting and gilding. ...a reminiscence of the romantic decay of Venice, the exoticism of Naples or Istanbul, the laid-backness of Rome, echos of San Francisco, and Iberian spirit. ...one of Europe's capitals of Romanticism, a real fairytale just minutes from the city center ( Sintra ). ...the safe haven of WWII that remains a peaceful city in a tumultuous world.

Lisbon

10 Reasons Why You Should Go to Lisbon

  • CULTURE : It's one of the world's great historic cities, with characteristic and surprising sights, cultural treasures, and a beautiful setting that make it a paradise for walkers and photographers.
  • VALUE : It's one of Europe's best values -- officially Western Europe's least expensive capital.
  • LOCATION : It's the closest European capital to the United States and just around a 2-hour flight from the major European cities.
  • CLIMATE : Its mild climate makes it an ideal year-round destination. Even in winter, when most other European cities are freezing, in Lisbon high temperatures rarely go below 10C (50F).
  • RESORT : It's a European capital but located close to sandy beaches, enabling visitors to combine culture with fun by the sea.
  • SIZE : It's a compact and intimate city, ideal for a short city break or a longer romantic stay, with a lively café culture and a nightlife that is one of the most vibrant in Europe.
  • VARIETY : Its surroundings offer an incredible variety of tourist attractions, from fairytale palaces in one of Europe's most romantic towns ( Sintra ), to world-class golf and fun in Europe's largest casino in Estoril , to surfing in Cascais or escaping to a natural park in Arrábida , to dolphin-watching in Setúbal .
  • GATEWAY : It makes a perfect base to explore many of Portugal 's most outstanding towns and villages, from Evora to Obidos .
  • SAFETY : It's one of the safest European capitals. Tourists are always automatic targets in all big cities and visitors should beware of pickpocketing in Lisbon, but serious random violent crime is practically unheard of in this city.
  • WELCOMING : It's a friendly city with a cosmopolitan population, welcoming to all visitors and families with children, and open to minorities and alternative lifestyles.

Lisbon Travel Planner:

Book your room for free (no booking fees) and pay later at the hotel:

Central, stylishly furnished, and cheaper than many hotels:

Stylish, award-winning budget accommodation in the city center:

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Skip the long lines for taxis or the hassle of navigating public transportation when you arrive at the airport, and go straight to your hotel:

TOURS & TICKETS

Go on a day trip or on an organized tour around Lisbon:

Planning to travel around Portugal? Save time and look for the best deals here:

FREE Lisbon

Lisboa Card

Save time and money: Get FREE or reduced admission to most of Lisbon's attractions and ride the city's metro, buses, and trams for free with the Lisboa Card:

Join GoLisbon on Facebook for regular updates on what's happening in the city:

Where to Stay

Where to eat, tours & day trips, complete lisbon travel guide:, neighborhoods.

  • Bairro Alto & Chiado
  • Parque das Nações

Main Streets and Squares

  • Comercio Square
  • Rossio Square
  • Rua Augusta
  • Municipal Square
  • Camões Square
  • Figueira Square
  • Rua das Portas de Santo Antão
  • Restauradores Square
  • Avenida da Liberdade
  • Marquês de Pombal Square

Castles and Palaces

  • St. George's Castle
  • Belém Tower
  • Ajuda Palace
  • Belém Palace
  • Fronteira Palace
  • São Bento Palace
  • Jeronimos Monastery
  • Carmo Convent
  • São Roque Church
  • Estrela Basilica
  • Lisbon Cathedral
  • São Vicente de Fora Monastery
  • National Pantheon
  • St. Anthony Church
  • Graça Church
  • Conceição Velha Church
  • São Domingos Church
  • Memória Church
  • Discoveries Monument
  • Santa Justa Elevator
  • Rossio Station
  • Casa dos Bicos
  • 25th of April Bridge
  • Monument to Christ
  • São Carlos Theater
  • Lisbon Aqueduct
  • Campo Pequeno Arena
  • Roman Theater
  • Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
  • Ancient Art Museum
  • Berardo Collection Museum
  • MAAT Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
  • MuDe Design and Fashion Museum
  • Tile Museum
  • Coaches Museum
  • Maritime Museum
  • National Archaeology Museum
  • Chiado Contemporary Art Museum
  • Lisbon Museum
  • Orient Museum
  • Decorative Arts Museum
  • Anastácio Gonçalves Museum
  • Medeiros e Almeida Museum
  • Arpad Szenes-Vieira da Silva Museum
  • Money Museum
  • Intercative Science Museum
  • Fado Museum
  • Military Museum
  • Marionette Museum

Modern Architecture and Landmarks

  • Vasco da Gama Tower
  • Vasco da Gama Bridge
  • Oriente Station
  • Portugal Pavilion
  • Altice Arena
  • CCB - Belém Cultural Center
  • Lisbon Casino

Parks and Gardens

  • Edward VII Park
  • Tropical Garden
  • Botanical Garden
  • Estrela Garden
  • Ajuda Botanical Garden
  • Príncipe Real Garden
  • Docas de Santo Amaro

Useful Tips

  • Itineraries
  • Family Attractions
  • Transportation

Eating & Drinking

Accommodation.

  • Lisbon Tourist Information Offices

Lisbon

Lisbon is a pretty dense destination, with plenty of things to do and to see for visitors who want to explore in depth the tourist richness of the capital of Portugal. There are numerous sights and pleasant pursuits one can take into account, as well as events of special tourist interest advisable for visitors who want to feel the genuine pulse of the place. The tourist information offices scattered in Lisbon offer reliable tips for visitors who want precisely that: not to miss the tourist essentials of the city.

There are also several offices of this kind in the neighboring Sintra and Cascais visitors can turn to if decided that the hinterland of Lisbon are too worth exploring.

The following is the list of the most important tourist information offices in Lisbon.

Lisbon Welcome Center

Lisbon tourist information center, belem cultural center, lisbon portela airport tourist information office, santa apolonia tourist office, cascais tourist information office, estoril tourist information office, sintra tourist information office, hotels booking, accommodation.

  • 5 Star Hotels
  • 4 Star Hotels
  • 3 Star Hotels
  • 2 Star Hotels
  • Bed & Breakfast

Information

  • How to Get to Lisbon
  • How to Get around in Lisbon
  • Lisbon Airport
  • Port of Lisbon
  • Lisbon Weather and Climate
  • Travel Tips for Lisbon
  • Car Rental in Lisbon
  • Bike Rental in Lisbon
  • Shopping in Lisbon
  • Nightlife in Lisbon
  • Traditional Portuguese Cuisine in Lisbon
  • Short History of Lisbon
  • Lisbon Card
  • Lisbon Webcam
  • Lisbon Pictures

Attractions

  • Churches in Lisbon
  • Museums and Galleries in Lisbon
  • Historical Edifices and Monuments in Lisbon
  • Parks and Gardens in Lisbon
  • Squares in Lisbon
  • Lisbon Districts
  • Sports in Lisbon
  • Beaches in Lisbon
  • Attractions nearby Lisbon
  • Disco & Club

Food And Drink

  • Restaurants
  • Lisbon Tourism 2024 © Sitemap Contact Terms and conditions Privacy

tourist information in lisbon

Tourist Offices

tourist information in lisbon

Ask Me Lisboa | Aeroporto de Lisboa

Lisbon International Airport

tourist information in lisbon

Ask Me Lisboa | Terreiro do Paço

tourist information in lisbon

Ask Me Lisboa | Lisboa Story Centre

tourist information in lisbon

Ask Me Sintra | Mitos e Lendas

tourist information in lisbon

Ask Me Arrábida

IMAGES

  1. Lisbon Tourist Map with the Major Attractions and Neighborhoods

    tourist information in lisbon

  2. Lisbon 2021: Top 10 Tours & Activities (with Photos)

    tourist information in lisbon

  3. What to do in Lisbon: 25 Things to Do in Lisbon You Can't Miss!

    tourist information in lisbon

  4. Insider Lisbon City Tour

    tourist information in lisbon

  5. Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Lisbon

    tourist information in lisbon

  6. 20 Must-Visit Attractions in Lisbon

    tourist information in lisbon

VIDEO

  1. Weekend in Lisbon

  2. LISBON walk PORTUGAL

  3. एक बार ये विडियो जरूर देखें

  4. The Top 10 Places In Lisbon You MUST See Before You Die

  5. #Places to Visit in Lisbon

  6. Moving to Lisbon. A real life experience immigrating to Portugal and finding affordable housing

COMMENTS

  1. Lisboa OFFICIAL Site

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

  2. Experience Lisbon

    Portugal, Europe. Seven cinematic hillsides overlooking the Rio Tejo cradle Lisbon's postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals, a captivating scene crafted over centuries.

  3. Top 10 Attractions and 50 Things to Do in Lisbon

    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.

  4. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Lisbon (UPDATED 2024)

    17,097. Points of Interest & Landmarks. One of the biggest squares in Europe, this stylish area in downtown Lisbon often displays beautiful works of art and sculpture, and is a great place for a leisurely stroll. See full details. See ways to experience (412) 2023. 5. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum.

  5. Lisbon Travel Guide

    Taxis are especially abundant at the Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), located about 3 miles north of the downtown tourist districts. Rides between the airport and the city center generally cost 10 to ...

  6. LISBON Portugal TOURISM Guide

    10 Things You Should Know Before You Visit Lisbon. 1. Lisbon is very hilly, but walks are rewarded with magnificent views at the top, from various "miradouros" ( viewpoints ). Each offers a different perspective, and miradouro -hopping is one of the city's most memorable (and Instagram-worthy) experiences. 2.

  7. 18 Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

    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 ...

  8. 7 of the best things to do in Lisbon

    7. Cycle to the coast. Technically, Lisbon is not a beach town, but its laid-back vibe and the palm trees that dot the pastel-colored cityscape give it a distinctly ocean-front feeling. In fact, it's a short car, train or ferry ride from scores of proper beaches. To make a day of it, rent a bike in the far western Lisbon neighborhood of Belém.

  9. Lisboa

    TripAdvisor Traveler RatingBased on 428 reviews. Visit one of Lisbon's most interesting cultural centres. With one of the best modern art collections in the Museu Coleção Berardo, the CCB is fully equipped to please. 20% with Lisboa Card. Read More.

  10. Lisbon Bucket List: 40 Amazing Things to Do in Lisbon

    View from the National Pantheon. 12. National Tile Museum. Located inside of Madre de Deus Convent, this is one of the best places in Lisbon to see azulejos, or blue tiles. This museum, also called the National Museum of the Azulejo, features a variety of murals created from blue and white ceramic tiles.

  11. 25 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lisbon

    None of the brooches and necklaces were ever used, except for the startling and flamboyant Dragonfly woman corsage ornament, worn once onstage by actress Sarah Bernhardt (1844- 1923). Address: Avenida de Berna 45A, Lisbon. 5. Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga: The National Museum of Ancient Art.

  12. 33+ Important Tips for Visiting Lisbon for the First Time

    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.

  13. Lisbon

    On this free cod and wine tour of Lisbon, we'll discover all of the secrets of the 2 Portuguese culinary delights. A food tour you simply cannot miss! Lunch or Dinner in the Hard Rock Café. Lisbon travel guide with up to date information on weather, best places to stay, areas to eat out, the city's top attractions & more.

  14. Lisbon, Portugal; the best independent tourism guide for 2024

    Discover Lisbon in 2024: an essential guide to Portugal's vibrant capital. Experience its rich history, diverse culture, and year-round sunny climate. From traditional heritage to modern attractions, Lisbon offers unforgettable holidays with tips for making the most of your visit. Explore the historic Belem district, ride the iconic tram 28, and enjoy the city's buzzing nightlife and beautiful ...

  15. Lisbon Tourist Information

    Lisbon Tourist Information. The Ultimate Guide for Your Trips to Lisbon. Ask anything. Search. What Can I Do in Lisbon? Sights, Attractions, and Museums. 50 Best Things to Do in Lisbon [with Tickets] 15 Things To Do With Kids In Lisbon. Read More. 15 Things To Do On A Rainy Day In Lisbon.

  16. 50 Best Things to Do in Lisbon [with Tickets]

    5. Santa Luzia Miradouro and Church. Viewpoint with stunning church beside it. The church of Santa Luzia is recognized as a national monument in Portugal which belongs to the Knights of Malta. On the church's wall you can admire two azulejo murals which depict historical scenes from Lisbon's past.

  17. LISBON Portugal Tourism Guide

    10 Reasons Why You Should Go to Lisbon. CULTURE: It's one of the world's great historic cities, with characteristic and surprising sights, cultural treasures, and a beautiful setting that make it a paradise for walkers and photographers. VALUE: It's one of Europe's best values -- officially Western Europe's least expensive capital.

  18. Lisbon Tourist Information Offices

    The following is the list of the most important tourist information offices in Lisbon. Lisbon Welcome Center Name: Lisbon Welcome Center (Welcome Center de Lisboa) Address: 15, Rua do Arsenal, Lisbon, Portugal Telephone: 00351 210 312700 Fax: 00351 210 312899 Email: [email protected] Website:

  19. Why Lisbon?

    Why Lisbon? If you're dreaming about your next trip to Europe, come and discover Lisbon, a historical city full of stories to tell, where the sun shines 290 days a year and the temperature rarely drops below 15oC. ... Lisboa was considered the World's Leading City Break Destination 2019 by the World Travel Awards. +info. 25 de Abril Bridge.

  20. Useful Information

    Lisbon Airport arrivals and departures (+351) 218 413 500: [email protected]: www.ana.pt: Tourism Office Ask Me Lisboa | Airport (+351) 218 450 660: [email protected]:

  21. Tourist Offices

    Chegadas, Aeroporto - Alameda das Comunidades, 1700-008, Lisboa. Lisbon International Airport. Get Directions