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Lisbon Travel Guide

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

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

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

Best Time to Go

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

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

Things to Know

Currency: Euro

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

Language: Portuguese

I don't speak Portuguese: Nao falo portugues

Where is the…: Onde está

Thank you: Obrigada

Learn more Portuguese phrases

Calling Code: +351 21

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

How to Get Around

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

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

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

Best Hotels

The one palácio da anunciada.

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

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

Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa

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

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

Hotel Britania

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

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

Tesouro da Baixa by Shiadu

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

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

Dare Lisbon

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

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

The Lumiares Hotel & Spa

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

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

My Story Hotels

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

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

Best Restaurants

Time out market (upscale food court).

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

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

Pasteis de Belem (Portuguese)

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

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

Tapa Bucho (Portuguese)

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

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

Barrio Do Avillez (Portuguese, Pizza)

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

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

Augusto Lisboa (Breakfast and Brunch)

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

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

Restaurante Feitoria (International)

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

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

Things to Do

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

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

Try ginjinha

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

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

Mosteiro dos Jeronimos

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

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

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

Oceanário de Lisboa

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

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

Best Shopping

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

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

A Vida Portuguesa

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

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

Livraria Bertrand

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

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

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

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

Neighborhoods to Know

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

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

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

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

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

Apps to Download

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

Uber : Ridesharing, food delivery iOs | Android

Google Translate : Translation, phrasebook, transcription iOs | Android

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Lisbon   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

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

• All Things To Do

Tram 28 Tram 28

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

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

Belém Belém free

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

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

Cabo da Roca Cabo da Roca free

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

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

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Alfama Alfama free

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

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

Santa Justa Lift Santa Justa Lift

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

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

Lisbon Cathedral Lisbon Cathedral free

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

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

Sintra Sintra free

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

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

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

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

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

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Plan a daytrip to Cascais Plan a daytrip to Cascais free

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Palácio Nacional da Ajuda Palácio Nacional da Ajuda

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

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

LxFactory LxFactory free

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

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

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

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

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

Monastery of Jerónimos Monastery of Jerónimos

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

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

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

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

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

Feira da Ladra Feira da Ladra free

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

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

Carmo Convent Carmo Convent

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

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

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Lisbon Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Lisbon

1. Walk around the Old Town

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

2. See the Belem Tower

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

3. Walk through the Jardim Botanico

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

4. Hit the beaches

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

5. Explore St. George’s Castle

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

Other Things to See and Do in Lisbon

1. take a free walking tour.

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

2. See the Berardo Collection Museum

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

3. Ride the “elevator”

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

4. Visit the Praça do Comércio

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

5. Check out Sé de Lisboa Cathedral

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

6. Ride the trams

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

7. See a Fado show

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

8. Visit the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

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

9. Check out the Discoveries Monument

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

10. Tour Batalha Monastery

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

11. Enjoy a pastéis de nata

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

12. Take a day trip to Sintra

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

13. Visit MAAT

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

14. Take a food tour

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

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

• Lagos Travel Guide
• Porto Travel Guide

Lisbon Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Lisbon Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Lisbon Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Lisbon

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

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

How to Get Around Lisbon

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Lisbon

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Lisbon

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

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

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

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

The emergency number in Lisbon is 112.

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

Lisbon Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Lisbon Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 4 Best Hostels in Lagos, Portugal

The Best Walking Tours in Lisbon

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

The 9 Best Hostels in Lisbon

When Three Days Is Not Enough Time

Lisbon: Even Better the Second Time

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Lisbon

By Chadner Navarro and Alia Akkam

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

Read our complete Lisbon travel guide here .

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

Ajuda National Palace Arrow

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

Tram 28 Arrow

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

LX Factory Arrow

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

Time Out Market Lisboa Arrow

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

Shannon McMahon

Chris Schalkx

Mark Ellwood

Alex Erdekian

Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) Arrow

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

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Arrow

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

Praça do Comércio Arrow

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

We Hate Tourism Tours: Walk in the Real City Arrow

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

São Jorge Castle Arrow

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

Café A Brasileira Arrow

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

Jéronimos Monastery Arrow

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

Clube de Fado Arrow

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

Belém Tower Arrow

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

Pastéis de Belém Arrow

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

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

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The best Lisbon itinerary: a local’s recommendations

By: Author Brittany

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2023

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

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

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

Where to stay in Lisbon

Corpo santo hotel .

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

Book your stay at Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel  here . 

Hotel Avenida Palace 

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

Book your stay at Hotel Avenida Palace  here . 

Book your travel insurance for Lisbon

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

How to get from your airport to the hotel

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

A few phrases to help you get around

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

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

Fala inglês? – Do you speak English?

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

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

The most fun 5-day Lisbon itinerary

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

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

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

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

Day 1: A day for the artists 

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

Dear Breakfast Alfama

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

Dear Breakfast eggs benedict

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

Cantinho da Sé

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

Paint Azulejos

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

Azulejo tile stencil

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

Painted azulejo tile

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eat a small lunch

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

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

Street art tour

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

Street art Mouraria

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

Vhils Mouraria

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

Delight your senses at a hidden restaurant

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

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

Mini Bar by José Avillez

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

Visit a speakeasy

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

Day 2: A photo-worthy day

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

Say cheese at a Lisbon photoshoot

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

Rua Augusta Arch Lisbon

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

Alfama tram

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

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

Ler Devagar in LX Factory

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

Rui dos Pregos

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

Pasteis de Belém

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

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

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

Jerónimos Monastery

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

Jerónimos monastery

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

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

Belém Tower

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

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

Tower of Belém

Santini ice cream

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

Sunset cruise

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

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

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

A Cevicheria

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

A Cevicheria – Ceviche de Salmão e Ananás

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

A Cevicheria tacos

Pavilhão Chinês

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

Pavilhão Chines Queen’s Guard

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

The Godfather at Pavilhão Chines

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

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

Pena Palace

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

Pena Palace Sintra

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

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

Buy your tickets to Pena Park and Palace here . 

Quinta da Regaleira

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

Initiation Well – Quinta da Regaleira

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

Taste the wines of Portugal at Bar do Binho

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

Eat travesseiros at Casa Piriquita

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

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

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

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

Feel saudade at a fado performance

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

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

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

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

Looking for a Portuguese Connection?

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

Portuguese Connection at Pub Português

Day 4: Step back in history

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

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

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

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

Pastelaria Santo António

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

Take a walk on the wild side of Lisbon history

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

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

History of Lisbon

Don’t forget to tip your guide! 

Food tour – Taste of Lisboa

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

Watch the sunset from a secret garden

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

Secret Garden views

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

Taberna Sal Grosso 

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

Day 5: A day for the foodies 

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

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

Zenith francesinha pancakes

Pastel de nata class

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

Pastel de Nata cooking class

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

Spend the day playing

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

Try another pastel de nata

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

Nata de Lisbon – chocolate pastel de nata

Shop for souvenirs

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

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

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

Dinner: DIY-style

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

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

Até breve!  See you soon! 

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

Pin this Lisbon itinerary!

Candace Capron

Sunday 7th of January 2024

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

Friday 12th of January 2024

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

Friday 27th of January 2023

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

Tuesday 31st of January 2023

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

Wednesday 24th of August 2022

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

Thursday 25th of August 2022

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

Friday 25th of February 2022

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

Saturday 26th of February 2022

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

11 Things to Do and See in Lisbon, Portugal’s Capital City

From visiting old castles to eating egg custards, here are the 11 best things to do in lisbon..

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History lovers, foodies, and artists can all find something to do in Lisbon.

Photo by Sean_Pavone/Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Alfama neighborhood is by the Tagus River.

Courtesy of Visit Lisboa

3. Stroll through Alfama

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

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

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

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

5. Explore Belém’s historic structures

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

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

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

6. Visit Ajuda National Palace

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

Get a healthy dose of nostalgia and romance by riding Tram 28, the most famous of Lisbon’s Remodelado trams.

Courtesy of Francesco Carovillano/age fotostock

7. Take a ride aboard Tram 28

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

8. Spend a few hours at LX Factory

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

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

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

10. Listen to fado

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

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

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

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3 days in Lisbon: Ultimate Guide to a Lisbon City Break

After spending 3 days in Lisbon last month, I fell madly in with this cultural city. I’ve pulled together a guide to a Lisbon city break and I’ve done all the research for you including where to stay, where to eat, what to do and how to get there. 

Lisbon is amazing city, and one of my favourites in the world. You can also grab yourself a famous pasteis de Nata, visit the imposing São Jorge Castle, take in all the views from the famous Alfama district, walk around Barrio Alto and take photos against the city’s pastel-colored buildings, and there is even enough time to see the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge. Three days is the perfect length of time to fully discover Lisbon so keeping reading for all my tips and tricks on how to plan your Lisbon city break. 

This huge blog post will provide you with a suggested three day itinerary of Lisbon, which could be used for a short city break or as part of an extended tour of Portugal. And if you’ve got longer than three days in Lisbon, outside the city there you can also visit beach towns such as Cascais to Estoril. Check out my guide to days trips from Lisbon too.

Note: This guide only focuses on the city of Lisbon and not the surrounding region. There are lots of days trips from Lisbon which you can take and I have another blog post on these, so you can extend your stay as part of a bigger trip around Portugal.

So what are you waiting for? Book your flights, already!

Top 21 Things to do in Lisbon

• Praça do Comércio
• Tower of Belém
• Jerónimos Monastery
• Alfama district
• Bairro Alto
• Santa Justa Lift
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• Oceanário de Lisboa
• Eduardo VII Park
• National Sanctuary of Christ the King
• Lisbon Cathedral
• Ponte 25 de Abril
• Avenida da Liberdade
• National Pantheon
• Miradouro Portas do Sol
• São Jorge Castelo
• Praça Dom Pedro IV
• Santa Justa Miradouro
• Carmo Convent
• Igreja de São Roque

READ MORE: How to spend 3 Days in Porto

Overview: 3 days in Lisbon Itinerary

The following is an overview for our suggested 3 day in Lisbon:

• Morning – Arrive on a plane and head for lunch at Basilio
• Afternoon –  Head out to explore Chiado and Bairro Alto districts including The Pink Street, Santa Justa Lift, drinks at PARK and then a mid-afternoon snack at Manteigaria
• Evening – Fado music performance and then dinner at SEEN restaurant and Sky Bar
• Additional – Drinks at rooftop bar H10 Duque de Loulé near hotel
• Morning – Take a vintage motor sidecar tour of the city, and then head to Belem district to Padrão dos Descobrimentos, Pastéis de Belém, Jerónimos Monastery
• Afternoon – Have weekend brunch at Four Seasons Lisbon, then head out to Alfama district, take a visit to Castelo de Saint Jorge and watch the sunset at Miradouro das Portas do Sol
• Evening – Dinner at Time Out, and then a big night out in Bairro Alto 
• Morning – Explore the Alfama and Baixa districts, especially the views at Miradouro da Senhora
• Afternoon –  Head for lunch at Nicholau Lisbon and then jump on number 28 tram tour of Lisbon
• Evening – Head home

As mentioned before, 3 days in Lisbon really isn’t long enough, mostly because there’s also a lot to do in the regions outside of the city centre, including a day trip to Sintra. I would suggest spending an extra day in Lisbon if you want to also visit Sintra Lisbon. A car is not required for a trip to Sintra, as you can just jump on a tour, or train to Sintra. Lisbon city has excellent public transport and inexpensive taxis.

READ MORE: The Lisbon rooftop venue SEEN and Sky Bar

LISBON 3-DAY ITINERARY OVERVIEW

The best time to visit lisbon, getting to lisbon and getting around .

Flights to Lisbon were super expensive when we travelled to Lisbon, but we did go in August. I looked for other times of the year and October they were as little as £50 return. So it’s worth visiting this wonderful city in the off-peak season. Lisbon has one airport only, but with two terminals so it isn’t the biggest. 

From the airport, getting to the city centre is pretty easy, and we used Uber which was incredibly cheap and only around 10 euros for two people. Or you can also jump on the Metro – the airport is the final stop of the red line, meaning that, with one change, you can find yourself right in the city centre within roughly 45 minutes. It’s worth buying a Metrocard when visiting, especially if you are spending 3 days in Lisbon. 

ACCOMMODATION IN LISBON

The best place to stay in lisbon.

Located in the heart of Lisbon, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon sets the standard in luxury five-star accommodation in the city and is the best place to stay in Lisbon. The hotel was built in 1959 by the Dictator Salazar, and designed by award-winning architect Pardal Monteiro, to prove that Lisbon could do luxury as well as any other European capital and he certainly proved himself with this stunning building, and its interior.

Locals still call the hotel the Ritz Hotel, but it was taken over by the Four Seasons group and entirely refurbished. It’s also got a great location, with Lisbon’s narrow streets making traffic a problem, the hotel’s location near the main Avenida de Liberdade provides easy access for guests around the capital. 

The iconic hotel wears the soul of Portugal on it’s sleeve, with art-deco interiors, set against a collection of important contemporary local artwork, and outside from the bedrooms and the rooftop fitness centre you can view the city’s rolling hills, brown roofs and even the sea beyond. A huge marble lobby area, which leads into a formal lounge area, where guests can relax before and after dining in the Varanda Restaurant.

The décor throughout the hotel is grand, there are chandeliers and huge flower displays on gilded furniture, as well as collections of modern Portuguese art, from tapestries to sculptures and paintings. You can also dine on the terrace at the Varanda Bar is you want the alfresco style of dining, or you can head to the luxury spa in the basement, where you will find a 18-metre pool, with spa and sauna rooms. 

READ FULL BLOG POST —-> REVIEW: Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon

Other places to stay in lisbon, portugal.

• Holiday Inn Lisbon
• EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel
• LX Boutique Hotel Rossio
• TURIM Boulevard Hotel
• Find the best price on hotels in Lisbon, Portugal

BOOK FOUR SEASONS HOTEL RITZ LISBON

LISBON ITINERARY: DAY ONE

Now it’s time to start my recommended 3 days in lisbon.

• Additional – Drinks at rooftop bar H10 Duque de Loulé near hotel

Stay at: Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon

Try a pastel de nata .

If you’re staying anywhere near the centre, make sure you head straight for Manteigaria. These amazing custard tarts are the best thing Lisbon has to offer and are fresh from the oven here. These guys are some of the best suppliers in Lisbon, so make sure you stop here for a tart. We stopped here first, to try some of the famous tarts, before heading in to the city to explore. 

HAVE A TYPICAL PORTUGUESE DINNER AT SEEN AND DRINKS AT SKY BAR

On your first day in the city, you must make sure you go for dinner at a restaurant serving traditional Portuguese food. I would recommend SEEN restaurant in Lisbon. Arriving at around 7pm, we took the lift straight to the 9th floor and followed the walkway to arguably one of the best rooftop bars in Lisbon –  Sky Bar Tivoli Lisboa . Descending the stairs to the bar, we were met by stunning views across the colourful streets of Lisbon and out to sea. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect – still basked in warm sun but out of the daytime heat.

Once seated, our lovely server introduced himself and playfully suggested he would select our cocktails – not something we were overly comfortable with initially – but we threw caution to the wind and agreed. The first round of cocktails arrived and we kicked back, enjoying the killer throwback soundtrack served up by the DJ and watching as the bar filled with revellers in search of a tasty tipple with a view.

LISBON ITINERARY: DAY TWO

• Additional –  Visit Lisbon’s famous aquarium!

TAKE A VINTAGE MOTOR SIDECAR EXPERIENCE

The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon is the best place stay in Lisbon for a number of reasons, but the element that really made our stay special was the Saturday morning tour of Lisbon in a vintage motorbike with sidecar. All you need is your camera in tow, and your helmet and the professionals will do the rest. The four hour tour of Lisbon is something you’ve never experienced before.

Through a partnership with Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon, you’ll join a your guide, ours was called Juan, on a tour of Portugal’s capital by vintage motorcycle. They pick you up from the front of the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon, and take you on your journey. For four hours you cruise through winding cobblestone streets and around leafy squares to discover the city’s most spectacular spots in Lisbon including: Alfama, Castelo de São Jorge, Bairro Alto and Chiado. At each stop, the guide will offer insights about the city and it’s interesting history!

VISIT BELEM DISTRICT

Only a short bike, taxi or train ride away from Lisbon you will find the beautiful area of Belém, a laid-back area on the Tagus River, known for its seafood restaurants and colorful tiles. Around Belem there are lots of museums, places to sit and have a picnic, historic landmarks and the iconic 16th-century Tower of Belém, as well as the Discoveries Monument. Near the vast Gothic Jerónimos Monastery, the popular Pastéis de Belém patisserie is famous for its custard tarts. 

The Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) was built in the 16th century as a fort to protect the coast from foreign attacks, and like the Jerónimos Monastery, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an example of Manueline architecture. The Jeronimos Monastery is an ancient architecture was granted UNESCO world heritage status in 1983, commissioned in the late 15th century by King Manuel I, to honour Our Lady and Saint Jerome. 

WEEKEND BRUNCH AT THE FOUR SEASONS

On the Saturday morning of our trip, we headed for weekend brunch at the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon. A welcome drink awaits guests upon arrival, and adults and children will delight in a sumptuous buffet at Varanda Restaurant, specially prepared by Executive Chef Pascal Meynard and his team. The buffet features breakfast favourites such as scrambled eggs, bacon and the delicious Ritz eggs Benedict at the live eggs cooking station, as well as a variety of crepes and waffles and there is even a live cooking station with a different theme each week and selections such as dim sum, bao bao and gyozas.

There’s even a seafood, ceviche and sushi station at the buffet, as well as a farmer’s market salad station, an assortment of bread, artisanal national and international cheeses, charcuterie and a variety of jams, honey, muesli and homemade yoghurts. And on the terrace, there is a barbecue station and pizza oven. What more could you want?!

VISIT PINK STREET

This street is unique and is completely pink, as the name suggests. In the day the street is full of people having coffee and lunch, whilst they watch people wandering down the pink street. And then after dark, the street comes alive with bars, people and nightlife. We visited here on our second day and weren’t blown away – it was actually quite run down and was barely pink anymore. 

READ MORE: Visit Lisbon: Five Day Trips from Lisbon

LISBON ITINERARY: DAY THREE

Take a stroll around alfama .

The steep streets of Alfama, was one of my favourite areas of Lisbon. Located on a steep hill of Lison, the streets are lined with shops selling traditional crafts and cafes. Here you can join the iconic no. 28 tram, which winds through Alfama on its way up to 11th-century São Jorge Castle.

And there are also some of the best views from Miradouro da Graça terrace stretch over the city to the River Tagus, where we headed one evening to watch sunset, and on a sunny day another view point from Miradouro das Portas do Sol has one of the best views in the city, so make sure to bring your camera!

NICOLAU LISBON

Nicolau Lisboa Café was born in the summer of 2016 in a little corner of Lisbon where the owners realised the dream of offering everyday healthy and really delicious food within a relaxed environment. They love to enjoy breakfast inspired dishes any time of day and at Nicolau the brunch is no longer only on Sundays but it is always available. You can expect amazing smoothies, salads and pancakes. The decor in aqua green and natural wood makes this cafe stand out. It’s one of the few breakfast and brunch restaurants in town, and a lovely spot for a light meal whatever the time of day (meals are often Brazilian-leaning, such as the açaí bowls and tapioca crêpes). 

JUMP ON THE NO. 28 TRAM

An iconic thing to do in Lisbon, is to go on the number 28 Lisbon tram. This tram connects Martim Moniz with Campo Ourique, but also drives through the districts of Graca, Alfama, Baixa and Estrela, so you can also get off and back on again if you want to see something on the route. Tourists love the quaint yellow tram, as it drives through the narrow streets of the city and can be suggested as a tour itself, without the tour guide. It’s a bucket list experience to add to your Lisbon city break. 

Lisbon is one of my favorite cities in the world and I hope this 3-day itinerary helps you make the most of your visit to this amazing city!

BOOK TRAVEL INSURANCE BEFORE YOU FLY Picking travel insurance that covers you in all eventualities is an essential part of planning a trip for every single person. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You never know what’s around the corner.  World Nomads  is an affordable option that I personally recommend. BOOK HERE

Other posts that may help you:

The Best City Breaks for Couples

Beginner’s Guide to Europe Interrail Routes

Copenhagen Chic at the Andersen Hotel

Best Vegan Restaurants in Malmo

Ultimate Guide to a Weekend Break in York

10 of the Best places to eat Brunch in London

The Best Weekend Trips in the UK

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Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! 

If you’ve enjoyed this post, please share it for me with all your friends and family!

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Lisbon looks like such a fun city! I have seen lots of people who have been this year and I’ve added it to my list – it is so beautiful and colourful and sounds like there’s heaps to do! xx

Jessie | jessie-ann.co.uk

Affiliate links are used in my website. I receive a small commission from products you purchase at no extra cost from you.

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Home » Lisbon Itineraries

Lisbon Itineraries

Make the most of your Lisbon stay with these itineraries for visits lasting 1, 2 and 3 days, plus walking itineraries to explore the city on foot, without taking any form of transport.

Three or more days in Lisbon give you time enough to add in day trips from Lisbon and even to explore other regions in Portugal. You’ll love the itineraries listed at the bottom of this page.

Lisbon Itineraries (Time Based)

Lisbon One-Day Itinerary If you’ve got only one full day in the city, this step-by-step itinerary includes the all-important attractions in Lisbon. In the morning, you’ll visit the medieval castle and Alfama plus the Baixa, Chiado and Bairro Alto neighbourhoods. The afternoon will be spent on the riverside Belém. Because you can’t leave Lisbon without enjoying an evening of fado, our itinerary will guide you to find a fado restaurant to end the day.

Lisbon Two-Day Itinerary A two-day itinerary covers the same sights as our one-day itinerary (above) and then adds an afternoon in Parque das Nações, a futuristic area by the riverside where you can visit the Oceanarium and watch the sunset on board of the teleférico , a gondola lift that glides 30 metres above the Tejo’s edge.

Lisbon Three-Day Itinerary Three days in Lisbon allow you to slow down. It is the perfect amount of time to spend in Lisbon. The first two days are essentially the same as our two-day itinerary (above) and then adds a day trip to Sintra and Cascais.

Lisbon Walking Itineraries

Get Lost in Alfama Itinerary Discover Alfama on foot and catch sweeping views of the river and the city. All you need is some water and comfortable walking shoes for Lisbon’s steep paved cobblestone streets.

From Bairro Alto to Cais do Sodré Itinerary This great walk will take from the Bairro Alto to Cais do Sodré by the River Tejo, passing through Chiado. It includes viewpoints, churches, an opera house and a museum, cafés, and places where you can eat and recharge during your walk.

From Rossio to the Riverfront Itinerary Explore the Baixa with this self-guided tour. It covers all the places of interest, and some history facts, from the Rossio Square to Ribeira das Naus, a beautiful promenade by the River Tejo.

Belém Itinerary Visit Lisbon’s finest monuments and museums, including the iconic Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, with this self-guided tour. You can pick the sights that most interest you and see them in any order. Use our suggestions for eats and drinks.

Day Trip Itineraries

Évora Itinerary With its Roman ruins, university, and beautiful buildings, Évora is of the best day trips from Lisbon. But visiting Évora also gives you the chance to discover the Alentejo, a rural region of unending plains of olive and cork trees, and vineyards. And this can be an opportunity to learn about Portugal’s wine culture.

Mafra & Ericeira Itinerary Mafra is renowned for its convent and palace, regarded as the most important baroque building in Portugal, while Ericeira is a seaside resort and a surf destination, known for its beauty as well as its break.

Nazaré Itinerary When, back in 2011, the American surfer Garrett McNamara set a world record on Praia do Norte, Nazaré went from a little known surfing spot to a world famous location. Nazaré is the perfect day trip from Lisbon, and usually not too hot because of sea breezes. Our itinerary includes some suggestions of stops on route.

Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Guincho & Cascais Itinerary Sintra and Cascais are by far the most popular day trips from Lisbon. From Sintra, this itinerary ventures onward to Cabo da Roca so that you can see the westernmost point in mainland Europe. Then, it adds a visit to the stunning Ursa and Guincho Beaches, finishing off in Cascais.

Tomar Itinerary This itinerary covers Tomar’s Convent of Christ, a Unesco World Heritage Site. It then makes a detour to the Castle of Almourol on an island in the middle of the River Tejo.

Portugal Itineraries

One Week Portugal Itinerary: from Lisbon to Porto Seven days are enough time to explore Lisbon and Porto, and to include a few stops on the way. This itinerary is perfect for first time visitors to Portugal with limited time.

7 Day Road Trip in Southern Portugal: Lisbon to the Algarve Visiting the Alentejo Southern Portugal has a dazzling range of landscapes – cliffs, dunes, beaches, and unending plains of olive and cork trees, and vineyards. Explore the Algarve and Alentejo regions with this seven-day road trip.

Travel Guide for Visiting Porto Porto in northern Portugal is home to Port wine and a beautiful UNESCO-listed old centre. Though smaller than Lisbon, the city has many sights to see. Find all the essential information for your visit to Portugal’s second city, including how to get around, hotels, restaurants, and the feast of Saint John.

Douro Valley Itinerary To visit the Douro valley and vineyards, here’s a six-day itinerary designed for those who love Port and other great Portuguese wines, and also wish to explore the beautiful Douro region.

Lisbon Travel Guide: Everything you need to know

Explore all that portugal's capital has to offer with this ultimate travel guide to lisbon. find out what activities, restaurants and attractions are not to be missed.

Lisbon Travel Guide

Are you ready for the Lisbon, Portugal experience? This comprehensive Lisbon travel guide is all you need.  There’s no doubt that this beautiful city has so much to offer.  Get an authentic taste of its culture, sights, and sounds.  In this Lisbon travel guide, I’ll also share some top-notch accommodation options, must-see attractions, best dining experiences, and essential safety tips for your visit. From navigating cobblestone streets to indulging in the iconic pastel de nata pastry, prepare yourself for a memorable journey through the heart of the Lisbon region. 

Exploring Lisbon: How to Get There and Around 

You’ll love exploring this beautiful destination with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food in this section of our Lisbon travel guide.  I will discuss how to get to Lisbon and navigate your way around the city. You must know you don’t need to speak Portuguese to enjoy Portugal; English is widely spoken. Portuguese are always ready to help you should you get lost.

Arriving in Lisbon

The main Lisbon airport is Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), which serves international and domestic flights. Several airlines fly directly into LIS from major cities worldwide. To find the best deals on flights, consider using search engines like Skyscanner or Google Flights .

Transportation Options from the Airport

• Metro: The most budget-friendly option is taking the metro from the airport station to downtown Lisbon. A single ticket costs is 1.50 euros plus an additional 0.50 for a reusable Lisbon card. Lisbon takes about 20 minutes via the metro.
• Aerobus: This shuttle bus service connects the airport with several critical points in central Lisbon for 4  euros per person.
• Taxi/Uber: Taxis are available outside Terminal 1 arrivals area; expect fares between 15-20 euros depending on your destination within central Lisbon. Uber also operates in Portugal but may have higher prices during peak hours.

Navigating Public Transportation Within City Limits

Navigating Lisbon’s public transportation system is easy with the various buses, trams, and metro lines available. To save money on fares, consider purchasing a VIVA Viagem card , which allows you to load multiple trips or unlimited travel for 24 hours at  6.40 euros.

• Metro: The fastest way to get around the city is by using the four metro lines (Azul, Amarela, Verde, and Vermelha) that connect key points within Lisbon.
• Buses & Trams: Buses are an excellent option for reaching destinations not covered by the metro network. Additionally, don’t miss out on experiencing a ride on one of Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams.
• Renting a scooter or bike . If you prefer exploring at your own pace while staying active during your trip to Lisbon, renting a bike or scooter might be right up your alley. Companies like Lime and Circ offer electric scooters throughout the city via their mobile apps.

Important Takeaway: 

 Use budget-friendly options like metro, aerobus or VIVA Viagem card while exploring the city’s iconic yellow trams or renting a bike/scooter.

 Where to Stay in Lisbon

Lisbon offers various accommodation options for every budget and preference, from charming hostels to luxurious hotels. To help you choose the perfect place to stay during your trip, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best areas and accommodations in Lisbon.

Baixa-Chiado: The Heart of the City

Baixa-Chiado is an excellent choice if you want to be right in the center of all the action.  Also known as the city center, this area is known for its beautiful architecture, lively squares, and numerous shopping opportunities. It is within walking distance to the main attractions. Some great places to stay include:

• The Independente Hostel & Suites : A stylish hostel with both dorms and private rooms available.
• Internacional Design Hotel : A boutique hotel offering chic rooms with unique design themes.

Alfama: Old World Charm Meets Modern Comforts

If you want a more traditional Portuguese experience, consider staying in Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods. Here, narrow cobblestone streets wind past colorful houses adorned with azulejos (traditional tiles). Recommended accommodations include:

• Memmo Alfama Hotel : A boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace offering stunning city views.
• Alfama Patio Hostel : A cozy hostel featuring dorms, private rooms, and a lovely outdoor patio area.

Bairro Alto: For Night Owls and Culture Lovers

Bairro Alto is the place to be for those who enjoy vibrant nightlife. This bustling district offers an array of pubs, discos, and live music spots that stay open till the wee hours. Some top accommodation options are:

• The Lumiares Hotel & Spa : A luxury hotel boasting elegant suites and an on-site spa for ultimate relaxation.
• Lisbon Poets Hostel : An artsy hostel popular among young travelers looking for a social atmosphere.

No matter where you stay in Lisbon, book your accommodations early – especially during peak travel seasons – to secure the best deals.

With a variety of lodging choices available, Lisbon offers a remarkable stay. Moving on to the next heading, let’s explore what there is to see and do in this beautiful city.

We are looking for a place to stay in Lisbon. Accommodation in Lisbon ranges from cozy hostels to opulent hotels. Check out Baixa-Chiado for the heart of the action, Alfama for old-world charm, or Bairro Alto for vibrant nightlife.

What to See and Do in Lisbon

Lisbon boasts many cultural and historical attractions, along with spectacular scenery. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant Portuguese capital. Here are some must-see attractions and activities that should be on your Lisbon itinerary:

Visit the Belem Tower

A symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, the Belem Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site worth exploring. Built in the early 16th century as a fortress and ceremonial gateway to Lisbon, it offers breathtaking views of the Tagus River. 

Explore Alfama District

The oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, Alfama District , boasts narrow streets lined with colorful houses adorned with azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles). Don’t miss out on visiting  Castelo De Sao Jorge  Castle while you’re here – its hilltop location provides panoramic views over the city.

Ride Tram 28

No trip to Lisbon would be complete without hopping aboard one of its iconic yellow trams. Tram 28 takes you through some of the most picturesque neighborhoods, like Graca and Estrela, while providing glimpses into local life.

Catch Some Sun at Cascais Beaches

If soaking up sunrays by crystal-clear waters sounds appealing, head over to Cascais – just a short train ride from Lisbon. It is one of the perfect day trips. This charming coastal town offers a variety of beautiful beaches to choose from, perfect for relaxing or trying your hand at water sports.  

Discover LX Factory

A former industrial complex turned creative hub, the LX Factory is now home to art studios, quirky shops, and trendy cafes. It’s an excellent spot for shopping unique souvenirs and enjoying local cuisine while admiring the street art.

Taste Portuguese Pastries at Pasteis de Belem

Your taste buds will thank you after indulging in Portugal’s famous custard tarts – pasties de nata – at their birthplace: Pasteis de Belem . Be prepared for long queues, as this iconic pastry shop attracts tourists and locals alike.

Lisbon has so much more to offer beyond these suggestions; it’s truly a city that caters to all interests. So pack your bags and get ready to create unforgettable memories in one of the most beautiful European capitals.

From visiting the iconic Belem Tower to exploring Alfama, Lisbon has a variety of sights and activities for visitors. Now, let’s delve into the deliciousness of Lisbon, discovering its finest eateries and bars.

Lisbon has an exciting history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Must-see attractions include the Belem Tower, Alfama District, Tram 28, Cascais Beaches, LX Factory, and Pasteis de Belem for Portuguese pastries.

 Eating and Drinking in Lisbon

Lisbon is a food lover’s paradise, offering delicious dishes and drinks that cater to every taste bud. From traditional Portuguese cuisine to international favorites, Lisbon, Portugal, has it all. Discover the top spots to dine and drink in Lisbon with this guide.

Best Restaurants in Lisbon

• Time Out Market Lisboa : A trendy food hall featuring various stalls from top chefs and local vendors serving everything from seafood to pastries.
• Cervejaria Ramiro: Known for its mouthwatering seafood dishes such as clams Bulhao Pato style or garlic prawns.
• Pasteis de Belem : The birthplace of Portugal’s famous custard tarts – don’t miss out on trying these iconic treats.
• Taberna da Rua das Flores : A cozy spot with a daily-changing menu based on fresh ingredients from local markets.

Cafes & Coffee Shops

• Fabrica Coffee Roasters: Serving expertly crafted coffee using beans roasted on-site and tasty breakfast options like avocado toast or granola bowls. li > Heim Cafe: A charming cafe with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying brunch or an afternoon coffee break.
• Wish Slow Coffee House: A minimalist cafe offering specialty coffees and delicious pastries in a serene setting.

Lisbon Bars & Nightlife

• Park Bar: Located on the rooftop of a parking garage, this trendy bar offers stunning views of Lisbon, tasty cocktails, and DJ sets.  Pensao Amor: Once an old brothel, it has been transformed into an eclectic bar featuring live music, burlesque shows, and art exhibitions.
• Pink Street: The city’s nightlife hub, where you’ll find numerous bars and clubs to dance the night away. Don’t miss out on Music Box or Europa Club. Explore the lesser-known areas of Lisbon to uncover its undiscovered secrets and surprises. Enjoy your culinary journey through this vibrant city. p >

From delicious seafood dishes to unique Portuguese wines, Lisbon has a plethora of culinary experiences that can be enjoyed by all. Now let’s look at the importance of staying safe in this beautiful city.

Lisbon offers an abundance of gastronomic delights to please any palate, from the trendiest food halls like Time Out Market Lisboa, cosy cafes such as Heim Cafe and unique bars like Pensao Amor. From trendy food halls like Time Out Market Lisboa, cozy cafes such as Heim Cafe, and eclectic bars like Pensao Amor – there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Don’t be afraid to venture off-the-beaten-path and discover hidden gems on your culinary journey through Lisbon.

 Staying Safe in Lisbon

Travelers should remain vigilant when visiting Lisbon as it is generally a secure city; however, precautionary measures must be taken to ensure safety. In this part, we’ll provide some advice on keeping secure while discovering Lisbon’s amazing streets.

Avoid Pickpockets and Petty Theft

Like any popular tourist destination, pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded areas such as public transportation or busy attractions. To protect yourself from petty theft:

• Keep your belongings secure by using a money belt or hidden pouch.
• Avoid displaying expensive items like smartphones or cameras openly.
• Be cautious when using ATMs – opt for machines inside banks rather than those on the street.

Navigating Public Transportation Safely

Lisbon’s public transportation system , including buses, trams, and metro lines are generally safe; however, you should still remain vigilant during your commute:

• Avoid traveling alone late at night if possible – try to stick with groups or use taxis/rideshare services instead.
• Always keep an eye on your belongings while onboard trains or buses..
• If you feel uncomfortable in any situation, trust your instincts and remove yourself from that environment immediately.>

Money Saving Tips for Staying Safe

Budget-conscious travelers can still prioritize safety without breaking the bank:

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash – use credit cards when possible to minimize potential losses from theft.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected expenses such as medical emergencies or lost/stolen belongings. Check out companies like  World Nomads  .
• If you’re planning on renting a car while in Lisbon, be sure to research parking options ahead of time – street parking can be scarce and expensive; look into affordable garages instead.
• Avoid tourist traps and try more restaurants outside the city center.

It is important to take necessary precautions when travelling, and staying safe in Lisbon should be a priority. Time to venture out and investigate the city.

Stay safe while exploring Lisbon by avoiding pickpockets and petty theft, navigating public transportation safely, taking care of your health, and saving money with budget-friendly tips such as using credit cards instead of carrying cash and purchasing travel insurance. Remember to trust your instincts if you feel uncomfortable in any situation.

Frequently Asked Questions Lisbon Travel Guide

What you need to know about visiting lisbon.

Lisbon is a vibrant city with rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. When visiting, be prepared for hilly streets and cobblestone pavements. The official language is Portuguese, but many locals speak English. The currency used is the Euro . Public transportation options include buses, trams, metro system and taxis.

How many days do you need to enjoy Lisbon?

A minimum of three days is recommended to explore Lisbon’s main attractions such as Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery and Alfama district. However, if you want to visit  Sintra or Cascais or spend more time discovering hidden gems in the city itself, plan for five to seven days. 

What are some must-see spots mentioned in Lisbon travel blogs?

Lisbon travel blogs often highlight popular attractions such as Praca do Comercio square,Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, LX Factory art hub and Sao Jorge Castle . Additionally, Tram 28 route offers a scenic ride through historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Graca. 

What is the best month to visit Lisbon?

The best months to visit Lisbon are from March-May or September-November when temperatures are mild (15°C – 25°C) and tourist crowds are smaller. Summer months (June-August) can be hot and crowded, while winter (December-February) brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

In conclusion, Lisbon is a vibrant and beautiful city with so much to offer. From exploring the historic downtown area to indulging in delicious Portuguese cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this stunning European capital. With easy access via public transportation and plenty of accommodation options, visiting Lisbon has never been easier.

If you’re looking for more travel inspiration and tips on how to make the most out of your next adventure, subscribe Metropolitan Girl newsletter . We keep you updated with  destinations around the world.  Start planning your dream trip today!

Grace Ashi is the founder and Editor of Metropolitan Girl.

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25 Tips for Your First Trip to Lisbon, Portugal

By Brianna | April 18, 2018

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

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

1.Arriving to Lisbon

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

2.Transportation in Lisbon

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

3. Money in Portugal

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

4.Weather in Lisbon

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

5. Accommodations in Lisbon

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

>Hostels in Lisbon  

>Boutique Hotels in Lisbon

>Luxury Hotels in Lisbon

6. Lisbon has hills. Seven of them.

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

Itinerary for Four Days in Lisbon

7. Make sure to wear good shoes

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

8.Lisbon trams

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

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

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

10. Take in Lisbon’s beautiful sunset views

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

Lisbon Neighborhoods

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

12. Barrio Alto

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

13. Cais do Sodre

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

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

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

15.Chiado/Baixia

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

Food and Drink in Lisbon

16.food in lisbon.

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

What to eat in Lisbon

17. those appetizers aren’t free.

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

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

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

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

20. What to drink in Lisbon

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

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

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

22.Safety in Lisbon

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

Day trips from Lisbon

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

>Hotels in Cascais

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

>Hotels in Sintra

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

Hotels in Evora

More Lisbon and Portugal Inspiration

The Perfect Weekend in Lisbon

Amazing Scenic Lisbon Viewpoints

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Portugal

What to See in Lisbon in Two Days

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

About the Author

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

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Tamara says

April 19, 2018 at 8:09 am

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

April 19, 2018 at 12:04 pm

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

Esther says

April 20, 2018 at 12:41 pm

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

April 20, 2018 at 1:47 pm

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

Brianna says

April 27, 2018 at 9:41 pm

Goblinette says

April 20, 2018 at 5:37 pm

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:42 pm

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

April 20, 2018 at 5:42 pm

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:43 pm

Pastel de nata is the best!

Obligatory Traveler says

April 20, 2018 at 9:37 pm

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:45 pm

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

Sandi Kowalyshyn says

May 27, 2019 at 9:20 am

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

Thanks! Sandi

Simone says

April 21, 2018 at 4:47 am

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

Can’t wait to see your adventures!

Rhonda Albom says

April 21, 2018 at 8:23 am

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

Amanda Grace says

April 21, 2018 at 10:57 am

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:48 pm

You will love Portugal!

Nicole says

April 21, 2018 at 11:24 am

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:49 pm

Isn’t Sintra just magical?

Annie Soul says

April 21, 2018 at 1:16 pm

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:50 pm

Any district or food pique your fancy?

Marcus and Mel says

April 21, 2018 at 1:19 pm

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:52 pm

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

Lorial Roballo says

April 21, 2018 at 1:44 pm

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:54 pm

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

April 21, 2018 at 8:53 pm

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:55 pm

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

April 22, 2018 at 4:02 am

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:57 pm

Thanks a bunch!

Fiona Maclean says

April 22, 2018 at 9:47 am

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

April 27, 2018 at 9:59 pm

Stick to port and ginja this time;)

April 22, 2018 at 12:13 pm

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

April 27, 2018 at 10:01 pm

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

Dorene says

April 22, 2018 at 5:34 pm

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

April 27, 2018 at 10:02 pm

Alfama is absolutely beautiful, great choice!

Efthimis Kragaris says

April 23, 2018 at 7:52 am

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

Michelle says

April 23, 2018 at 12:20 pm

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

Kathleen says

April 23, 2018 at 3:30 pm

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

April 27, 2018 at 10:04 pm

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

Siddhartha Joshi says

April 23, 2018 at 11:36 pm

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

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

Indrani says

April 24, 2018 at 12:23 am

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

Medha Verma says

April 24, 2018 at 6:43 am

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

Julie McCool says

April 25, 2018 at 8:49 am

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

Miranda| Migration Expert UK says

May 7, 2018 at 11:00 pm

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

May 10, 2018 at 12:37 pm

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

June 13, 2018 at 8:36 pm

Hopefully you get to Lisbon sooner rather than later!

Sarah Montgomery says

May 13, 2018 at 6:23 am

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

June 13, 2018 at 8:39 pm

I’m glad you found it helpful!

Tina Wright says

May 14, 2018 at 6:05 am

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

June 13, 2018 at 8:40 pm

You will have a fantastic time in Lisbon!

Matthew Ali says

May 17, 2018 at 5:06 pm

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

June 13, 2018 at 8:42 pm

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

KB Burt says

November 1, 2018 at 8:24 pm

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

February 20, 2019 at 5:09 pm

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

Michela says

April 21, 2019 at 4:23 am

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

September 6, 2020 at 2:49 am

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

Sarah Patel says

January 15, 2024 at 6:57 am

Hey Brianna!

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

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

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

Based on your experience, what would you recommend?

Thanks again for this great post!

Sarah Patel

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A guide to Lisbon’s most famous bridges

Here is a guide to Lisbon’s most famous bridges, the two bridges that cross the Tejo River and link the northern and southern parts of Portugal together, the 25 of April Bridge and the Vasco da Gama Bridge.

Prior to 1966, when the first bridge was built, the only way to cross the Tejo River or pass between northern and southern Portugal was by ferry.

The 25th of April Bridge – Ponte 25 de Abril

25 of April Bridge

GPS Coordinates:  38.689167, -9.176944

The 25 of April bridge is on the west side of Lisbon.  It is the longest Suspension bridge in Europe. With a total length of 7470 ft (2277 meters) it is currently the 43rd longest suspension bridge in the world.

The bridge connects Lisbon to the town of Almada on the south side of the Tagus River.

The bridge has two levels.  The top level is for cars, and the bottom level carries trains. 

There are six lanes for cars and two tracks for trains. The bridge clears the water by 70 meters.

Each day 150,000 cars pass and 157 trains use the bridge.  Traffic jams are frequent during rush hour.

There is a toll of €1.90 for northbound traffic coming into Lisbon. There is no toll for traffic leaving the city.

The 25 April Bridge was inaugurated in August 1966, and was originally known as the Salazar Bridge. 

It was first named after António de Oliveira Salazar, who was Prime Minister from 1932 until 1968.

Following the Carnation Revolution of April 25, 1974, when the dictatorship was overthrown, it was renamed Ponte 25 de Abril.  

Ponte 25 de Abril has been in seven movies, including James Bond’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service .

Can you walk across the Lisbon bridge?

Pedestrians are not allowed on the bridge, but it does close down each year for the half-marathon that starts south of the river and finishes in Belém on the north side of the river.

Also known as the Tagus River Bridge / Ponte Sobre o Tejo, the 25 of April Bridge is often said to resemble the Golden Gate Bridge . 

The bridge in Lisbon was built by US Steel and Morrison-Knudsen of Portugal, a firm that had worked on the San Francisco Bay Bridge.

Construction of the bridge took almost four years, from November 5, 1962 until August 6, 1966.

In 2017 an observation deck was added to the bridge. 

Attractions near the April 25 Bridge:

• Pilar 7 Center – April 25 Bridge’s Visitor Center
• Berardo Art Deco Museum – Opened in 2022, the great Berardo Art Deco Museum (BMAD) showcases oil tycoon Joe Berardo’s collection of Art Nouveau and Art Deco treasures. THe museum is practically located under the bridge (on the Lisbon side) at Rua 1 de Maio. It is also only a few steps away from the LX Factory.
• LX Factory – A repurposed industrial neighborhood that has been transformed into urban art, boutique shopping, bars, restaurants, coworking space, and artists’ studios. LxFactory | Restaurants, Bars, Shops & Offices in Alcantara
• Cristo Rei Statue – The noticeable 330 foot-tall concrete statue of Christ that opened to the public in 1959. An elevator takes visitors to the top for a panoramic view. Admission is €5. For more information, read my article Visit Cristo Rei – Portugal’s Christ Statue
• TimeOut Market – A beautiful modern food hall that shares space with Lisbon’s oldest fish market and farmer’s market – Mercado da Ribeira. Time Out Market Lisbon offers live performances and currently has 26 restaurants, eight bars, and a dozen shops.
• Docks for various sunset cruises and fishing expeditions – For information on sunset cruises, see my article, Old and new friends on Lisbon’s Booze cruises and party boats

Which bridge in Lisbon has the best view?

It’s hard to answer which bridge in Lisbon has the best view. It depends.

• The Vasco da Gama Bridge has beautiful views of unspoiled river estuaries on the south side of the river.
• As you head north, the 25 of April Bridge has postcard views of central Lisbon.
• Heading south on 25 of April Bridge, you get a look at the Cristo Rei statue.
• The Pilar 7 Bridge Experience on the 25 of April Bridge allows glass-floor views from up high.

Pilar 7 Bridge Experience

The Pilar 7 Center offers visitors a chance to explore the 25 of April Bridge up close, tour historical exhibits, and access the bridge’s viewing platform for some of the most stunning views of Lisbon.

Avenida da Índia, Pilar 7, Ponte 25 de Abril

Hours:  Every day 10 am – 6 pm  Last entry is at 5 pm.

Admission: €5.  Free with the Lisboa Card.  Children ages 6 -15 pay €3.50, children under 6 have free admission.

Vasco da Gama Bridge – Ponte Vasco da Gama

Vasco da Gama Bridge

GPS coordinates: 38.762, -9.043

The other major bridge in Lisbon is the Vasco da Gama Bridge (Ponte Vasco da Gama). The Vasco da Gama Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge. 

It was named after Portugal’s most famous explorer – Vasco da Gama, who discovered a sea route to India.  His discovery allowed Portugal to become a major importer of spices to Europe and become one of the richest countries in the world. 

The bridge connects Sacavém, north of Lisbon (north bank) with Alcochete and Montijo on the south bank.

It is the second-longest bridge in Europe, after the Crimean Bridge, and the longest bridge in the European Union .  

The bridge is 7.61 miles long (12.345 km). On cloudy days you cannot see the other side.

The bridge was opened in March 1998 after three years of construction. 

The Ponte Vasco da Gama is located on the northeast side of the city. This bridge also requires cars going northbound into the city to pay a toll of €2.85. Those leaving the city do not pay a toll.

The bridge was inaugurated in 1998 for the Lisbon World Expo.  It opened to the public in March, 1998. 

Attractions located near the Vasco da Gama Bridge:

• Parque do Tejo – Parque do Tejo is next to the Vasco da Gama Bridge and offers fantastic views of the bridge. There is a riverside promenade as well as a boardwalk where you can take pictures of the bridge. The park also features a skatepark. Also, check out the 33 foot-tall bronze sculpture of Queen Katherine of Bragança, designed by American sculptor Audrey Flack.
• Parque das Nações – In the Parque das Nações neighborhood , you will find some of the best Modern and contemporary architecture in the old city of Lisbon
• Lisbon Oceanarium – For more information on the Oceanarium, see my article, Lisbon Oceanarium | Plan Your Visit to the Oceanário de Lisboa
• Vasco da Gama Tower – Portugal’s tallest building reopened to the public in May, 2023. You can go to the top and enjoy the cocktail bar and panoramic views of the city. For more information, see my article Vasco da Gama Tower – Lisbon’s newest viewpoint is now open – lisbontravelideas.com

I am not affiliated with any business mentioned in this article. Thank you for reading my guide to Lisbon’s most famous bridges.

Ultimate Lisbon Travel Guide for 2024

The capital and largest city of Portugal is a beautiful charming city with several characteristic Bairros de Lisboa (neighborhoods) with historical culture and unique architectural landmarks. It’s one of the oldest cities in Western Europe and in the world. Lisbon is situated at the mouth of the Tagus River and is Europe’s only capital city along the Atlantic coast. English is widely spoken so language shouldn’t be an issue if you travel to Lisbon.

This Lisbon travel blog is a complete guide with everything you need to know plus the ultimate 3-day itinerary including free walking routes along the best places to visit and the Lisbon highlights. Find some useful Lisbon travel tips about the public transport, optional things to do in Lisbon, where to eat and the best place to stay for your an incredible trip to Lisbon.

What is the best time to visit Lisbon?

This lovely city has a Mediterranean climate with one of the warmest winters and mildest nighttime temperatures among European cities. That makes Lisbon a perfect destination to visit all year round. The best time to visit Lisbon depends on your needs. 

For surfers it’s best to go in wintertime (great waves), budget travelers probably like January and February (cheapest months). Beach lovers and worshipers of sun and warm weather should travel to Lisbon during July to September; these are the hottest months, but because of summer holidays also the most expensive ones. 

Overall it’s best to visit Lisbon from March to June or after the summer holidays in September and October. During those months the weather is pleasant (18-25°C), Lisbon hotels are cheaper and there are fewer tourists. I visited Lisbon many times, but this travel guide for Lisbon is based on my trip in April unfortunately we had some rain and it was quiet cold for the time of the year (had to wear my winter jacket).

Stay connected when traveling to Portugal and don't waste money on high roaming charges. Check out my complete guide for the best prepaid tourist sim card for Portugal in 2024  or my list of the best e-sim cards for traveling to Portugal . You can also buy a sim card at Lisbon Airport  on arrival.

How many days you need to explore Lisbon?

On a 3-day Lisbon itinerary you’re able to visit all of the main Lisbon tourist attractions and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of the city! A three days Lisbon trip will also allow you to explore the main historic neighborhoods such as Alfama, Baixa, Rossio, Chiado, Bairro Alto and Belém. If you have some extra days I would suggest to travel to Lisbon for 4 days or 5 days. This gives you the possibility to either enjoy more time in your favorite Lisbon areas or go on a day trip to for example the picturesque Unesco-listed Sintra and the former fishing village Cascais, which is now a famous Portugal tourist destination for its beaches, marina and lively harbor. 

If you like to add some relax-time at the beaches along the Atlantic coast you can easily spend a week in and around Lisbon. There is no need to book a day-trip to Sintra or excursions to Cascais or Cristo do Rei since you can easily visit all these Lisbon highlights and things to do in Lisbon by public transport. Another travel tip is to continue your trip from Lisbon to Porto and a road trip to the Algarve .

Where to stay in Lisbon?

There are many great Lisbon hotels and the best place to stay in Lisbon depends on your budget, needs and requirements. Since I prefer smaller centrally located boutique hotels instead of huge hotels away from the heart of Lisbon I chose to stay at the charming 4-star LX Boutique hotel , perfectly located in the heart of ‘historical Lisbon’ Cais do Sodré.

It’s the only hotel in downtown Lisbon that offers views over the Tagus River, Ponte 25 de Abril and Cristo do Rei. It’s also near Pink Street, around the corner of Mercado de Ribeira and only a short walking distance to Bairro Alto, Chiado and Baixa.

To reach other popular attractions, you can easily use the public transport (Lisbon travel tip: buy a Viva Viagem card to pay for your journeys). The metro station (green line) is only a 3-minute walk from the hotel, next to the ferry station to visit Cristo do Rei and the train station to go to Belém. It’s a perfect location to go anywhere in the city. 

There are also some of the best Lisbon restaurants in this area and for our Sushi lovers I would like to mention that this hotel has its own trendy sushi restaurant called ‘Confraria LX’.

What is a Viva Viagem card and where can you buy it?

A Viva Viagem card is a great Lisbon travel tip and a fast and easy way to pay for the use of public transport in Lisbon. You can use it to travel on tram, metro, funicular, ferry, bus and the suburban train. For the bus, tram and funicular you can choose to use your Viva Viagem card or to buy a ticket from the driver, but these fares are more expensive. You can buy the card in for example metro and ferry stations at ticket machines or ticket offices and will cost you 0,50 euro. After that you can choose between a single ticket (1,50 euro), a 1-day ticket valid for 24-hours (between 7 and 10 euro depending on the region) or zapping (you can choose your amount). It is the best way to get to all the places to visit in Lisbon.

For my 3-day Lisbon trip I chose the zapping-option and loaded 10 euro to start with (you can easily buy new credit for the same card). You can use the card by swiping it across the card readers to open the gates. I bought mine at the airport because I chose to take the Metro from Lisbon airport to the city center. The red metro line connects the airport to the other three metro lines (yellow, green and blue) and will bring you to Lisbon city center within 30 minutes. Trust me you want to buy this card when you travel to Lisbon.

3-day Lisbon Itinerary + free walking routes

• Day 1: Cais do Sodré – Baixa – Rossio – Chiado – Avenida da Liberdade – Bairro Alto
• Day 2: Almada (Cristo Rei + Ponte 25 de Abril) – Belém – Alcântara – Cais do Sodré
• Day 3: Alfama and tram 28 (possibility to extend with Parque das Nações, Estrela or Príncipe Real)

When I was preparing my 3-day trip to Lisbon, I couldn’t find much useful free walking routes. Probably because it isn’t really necessary, but if you travel to Lisbon for only 3 days and love to have a plan to not miss out on all the things to do and places to see check out the links that will give you access to free walking routes I created for you in Google maps. Im sure it is a great addition to all the Lisbon tips out there already.

Day 1 in Lisbon

Covering: cais do sodré – baixa – rossio – chiado – avenida da liberdade – bairro alto.

On this first day in Lisbon we explored Central Lisbon on foot and walked from our hotel in Cais do Sodré to Baixa, passing through Chiado and Avenida da Liberdade to end in Bairro Alto and back to LX Boutique Hotel in Cais do Sodré. 

The centrally located neighborhood Cais do Sodré is a good place to start your first day in Lisbon. We started at Praça Duque De Terceira, a nice square facing the Rio Tagus (Tagus River) and our hotel. This square is also the starting point of Ribeira das Naus, a nicely renovated riverfront promenade (walking area) that connects Cais do Sodré to the nearby Terreiro do Paço in Baixa. Walk along the river, enjoy the musicians, have a drink and admire the views! 

The promenade ends at Terreiro do Paço, also known as Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square). It is positioned on the banks of the Tagus River with large yellow symmetrical buildings occupied by the government and a huge open space with a statue of King Dom José I in the center of the square. No wonder it is one of the highlights of Lisbon and one of the most important squares and a popular meeting spot. From this point you can easily walk to Praça Dom Pedro IV (Rossio Square).

Walk through the beautiful Arco da Rua Augusta (triumph arch) to Rua Augusta; a nice pedestrian street that connects these two popular squares. Rua Augusta is the main commercial street in Baixa where you will find several cafés and shops such as H&M, Mango and Zara. In a Lisbon travel guide I found out it’s also a good place to buy some souvenirs and they were right. If you like you can also take a lift to the top of the arch, followed by a staircase to get a panoramic view of Baixa and Terreiro do Paço.

At the end of Rua Augusta, you’ll reach Rossio Square; a lively iconic square with two beautiful baroque fountains in literally the center of Lisbon (Rossio neighborhood) where people sit and relax or enjoy the many cozy outdoor terraces of the restaurants and cafés. This is a Lisbon must see! Right next to this square you will find Praça da Figueira, another nice square that is home to Lisbon’s oldest patisserie (Confeitaria Nacional), hotels and cafés. 

For lunch, I recommend Veganapati around the corner of the square; a lovely spot for vegans, but non-vegans will love this healthy and nicely decorated urban lunch-spot too. A great Lisbon restaurant to try out for you. Their cuisine is based on fresh natural food; low in calories with an emphasis on fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, low fat non-dairy products and avoidance of added artificial salts, colors and flavors.

After lunch, continue your walk to Elevador de Santa Justa (Santa Justa Lift), also known as Elevador do Carmo. An apprentice of Gustav Eiffel built the 45-meter high lift in 1902 to connect lower Bairro Alto to the upper Largo do Carmo (Carmo Square). This also explains the structure’s similarities to Paris’ Eiffel Tower.

We didn’t take the lift (very crowded and a huge line) but walked through Chiado to the upper Carmo Square instead. In the middle of the shopping-area and cafés of Chiado neighborhood you will find a nice outdoor sculpture of one of Portugal's most famous writers, Escultura de Fernando Pessoa. The statue is located outside 'A Brasileira café’. Lots of tourists take place on the empty chair next to him for a photo together with the writer and pretend listening to one of his famous poems. One of the popular things to do in Lisbon.

Continue your walk to Convento do Carmo (Carmo monastery), which is close to the top of Santa Justa Lift. The monastery is a testimony to the deadliest earthquake in Lisbon's history in 1755. This gothic style church is amazingly picturesque and should not be missed if you are interested in art, history and archaeology. Explore the area around and walk to the Santa Justa Lift to enjoy some nice views of Lisbon with in the back the iconic castle in Alfama.

After visiting the highlights of Chiado follow your way to Praça dos Restauradores, the most northern point of Baixa, to enjoy the square and the surrounding buildings like the Eden Theatre.

This square is dedicated to the restoration of the independence of Portugal from Spain in 1640 and also the beginning of Avenida da Liberdade. It’s the longest street in Lisbon (1,5 km) known as one of the most expensive shopping streets in Europe with various designer shops, expensive restaurants and trendy bars. If you like high-end shopping this is one of the places to visit in Lisbon. Since I don’t have a budget for exclusive shopping I found the walk along Avenida da Liberdade quiet boring.

The street ends at Parque Eduardo VII (Eduardo VII Park), the largest park in central Lisbon with a designed garden and impressive views over Praça Marquês do Pombal, Avenida Liberdade and Tagus River. Walk to the top of the hill, one of the great things to do in Lisbon. It takes some effort, but the view that the park offers on top of the hill definitely makes it worthwhile to go up.

I have two alternative Lisbon travel tips for you if you want to visit Eduardo Park:

1. There are several metro stations close to the park in case you want to skip the long walk along Avenida da Liberdade: Metro station Marquês de Pombal (downhill), Parque (halfway) or São Sebastião (uphill).

2. If you don’t feel like walking but you would like to add Avenida da Liberdade to end in the park, then I highly recommend taking a so-called Shared Electric Scooter. You will find one at every corner and it’s a fun and fast (25km/h) way to explore Lisbon. There are around 8 different e-scooter companies and they all require you to download an app. You pay 1 euro to start and 0,15 euro per minute of use, which is an average of 10 euro per hour.

Option 2 is an amazing thing to do in Lisbon! Pick an electric Scooter from Praça dos Restauradores and follow Avenida da Liberdade until you reach the park. You can even take the scooter to the top of the park. Enjoy the view and ride back to Praça dos Restauradores to have a drink in the Hard Rock Café and take Ascensor da Glória (Glória Funicular) up-hill to Bairro Alto to end the first day of your Lisbon itinerary.

Elevador da Glória is a funicular railway line with iconic yellow trams full of graffiti that connects downtown Baixa with the upper Bairro Alto neighborhood. It’s also possible to walk the steep way up but taking this short tram-ride is a fun experience. Something you can’t miss when you visit Lisbon.

Don’t forget to take a closer look at the beautiful graffiti street-art on your way up. The funicular stops at São Pedro de Alcântara in Bairro Alto.

Bairro Alto district is known for its nightlife and therefore a great place to end your first day exploring Lisbon. Enjoy the sunset at one of the ‘miradouro’, for example the Miradouro de Santa Catarina or visit Jardim São Pedro de Alcântara, a beautiful garden.

Have dinner in one of the high quality Lisbon restaurants in the area and go for a drink in one of the many Bairro Alto bars. Because of the perfect location of our hotel (LX Boutique Hotel) it was an easy walk back (downhill) and if you don’t feel like walking just take a metro or tram.

Day 2 in Lisbon

Covering: almada (cristo rei + ponte 25 de abril) – belém – alcântara – cais do sodré.

On day 2 we decided to have a closer look at the 110-meter high statue of Cristo Rei (Christ Statue), one of Lisbon's most iconic things to do located in the neighborhood of Almada. With his arms outstretched Cristo Rei dominates the skyline of Lisbon and the banks of the Tagus River. The statue is inspired by the famous Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro.

If you want to avoid crowds it’s best to visit in the morning, but for photos it’s better to visit in the afternoon. I visited in the morning before the crowds and managed to take some nice photos without people and a blue sky.

It’s not necessary to book a Lisbon excursion to Cristo Rei since it’s very easy to go there on your own. First take the Cacilhas ferry from Cais do Sodré (only a 3-minute walk from LX Boutique Hotel). It’s a 10-minute ferry ride to the other side of the river. On arrival to Cacilhas, take bus 101 and get out at the last stop where you will reach the statue in less than 200 meters. 

If you don’t have a Viva Viagem card yet you can buy it at the station to pay for your ferry ride. In the bus you either pay with your green Viva Viagem card with zapping credit or ask the driver for a return ticket and pay in cash (more expensive).

It is free to enter the grounds of the Cristo Rei complex and so is the chapel at the entrance. If you want to take the lift to the 80-meter high platform on top of the Christ monument, expect to pay about 8 euros, but you can also enjoy the stunning views of Lisbon, Tagus River and Ponte 25 de Abril without going up.

The view of Ponte 25 de Abril (25 April Bridge) is very impressive. The same architect who drew the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco has designed 25 April Bridge, definitely a place to visit in Lisbon. You can see the similarities, but although you would say it’s red, the color is actually ‘International Orange’. It would have been a great thing to do in Lisbon but unfortunately it’s not possible to cross the bridge on foot. You have to go back the same way: bus and ferry. 

Back in Cais Do Sodré you continue your Lisbon itinerary by taking the Electric Tram Bus (E15) to Bélem at the tram station right next to the Ferry station. Belém is one of the noble areas of Lisbon. No Lisbon trip is complete without exploring the jewels of Belém, a charming suburb located at the riverside, with many historic monuments and museums. 

I recommend riding the tram until the very last stop near Torre de Belém (Belém Tower) and start your Belém sightseeing part from there. Most of the tourists walk the other way around. You can easily spend half a day in Belém it is an amazing thing to do when you visit Lisbon. If you plan to enter most monuments and museums you will probably need more than half a day as there are long queues to visit Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower for example.

Belém Tower is a small - UNESCO World Heritage - fort that was constructed to guard Lisbon from seafaring attackers. The tower’s unique design includes a modern and heavily armed bastion, extended over the river. In Lisbon’s Belem district, close to the tower, you can also find a remarkable war memorial known as Monumento aos Combatentes do Ultramar (Monument to the overseas combatants). It’s dedicated to soldiers of the Portuguese army who died during the Overseas War of 1961 to 1974. 

The monument consists of three parts: the eternal flame, the V-shaped monument itself and the memorial wall with all the names of the fallen soldiers. The memorial is open all day and there is no entrance fee.

On your way to the monastery I highly recommend visiting the modern Centro Cultural de Belém (Belém Cultural Centre). In this Centre, also referred to as CCB, you can find collections of modern and contemporary art, a number of eateries and small shops. If you want to escape the crowds this Cultural Center is the perfect place for you to have a little rest on one of their beanbags on the grass of the roof terrace or to have lunch, a great Lisbon travel tip believe me!

We ended up in the surprising ‘Este Oeste’ restaurant. They offer a delightful mix of Italian and Japanese cuisine in a beautiful designed area with modern furniture. The staff offered us several free small dishes to taste. All dishes were delicious and I found the mix between Italian and Japanese very surprising. Therefore I recommend Este Oeste as the perfect lunch-spot in Belém. They also have a nice outside terrace overlooking the river. A lovely Lisbon restaurant and a must try on this itinerary.

CCB strongly contrasts with the opposite located UNESCO-listed Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery), one of the most prominent buildings in Belém and a symbol of Portugal's power and wealth during the Age of Discovery.

Did you know that the original recipe of the famous Portuguese pastries pastel da nata (custard tart) was invented by the monks of the Jerónimos Monastery to sell them at a shop next to a sugar cane factory? The secret recipe is at least 180 years old and known by only a few. Today Pastéis de Belém is widely recognized as the patisserie to sample the authentic custard tart in Lisbon and sells thousands of pastéis de nata every day. 

If you have enough time and want to taste the most authentic custard tart, you need to stop at Pastéis de Belém, located only a few meters from the Jerónimos Monastery. A tasty Lisbon travel tip. Because all tourists go there, it’s always very crowded. Since I’m not a fan of huge lines I skipped that part and bought some in a different place and it tasted good as well. You should definitely try these Portuguese pastries on your Lisbon trip.

From the monastery and patisserie you’re able to walk through the beautiful Praça do Império Garden to Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Discoveries Monument); this huge monument was built in 1940 for the Portuguese World Expo and features more than 30 statues of historical figures who played a big role in Portugal’s Age of Discoveries including Henry the Navigator.

It was given permanent status in 1960 to commemorate the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, responsible for turning Portugal into the leading maritime nation in Europe in the fifteenth century. If you like you can use the lift to the top of this monument for a panoramic view across the Tagus River and Belém.

From there I recommend to take an Electric Scooter along the edge of Tagus River to get to the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT). The design of MAAT is great to see and a nice photography spot with views of the bridge and the river. You can easily walk to the rooftop and inside you can enjoy contemporary art exhibitions. MAAT is also a nice spot to watch the sunset when you travel to Lisbon.

After MAAT I would suggest visiting Village Underground and LX Factory. Apparently this place can’t be found in a Lisbon travel guide yet as the majority of the tourists did not yet discover it. There weren’t many people at the time we arrived. You can go there by tram or by foot (a 20-minute walk from MAAT).

Always dreamed of having a drink in a retro double-decker bus beneath the 25 April Bridge? Then definitely include Village Underground to one of your stops. It’s a co-working space and cultural hot spot, built around 14 shipping containers and two buses. The perfect place to visit in Lisbon for digital nomads and travelers. You will be amazed! I really liked the easygoing atmosphere.

LX Factory is another creative co-working hot spot. It’s an old industrial area with vintage stores, cool restaurants and a rooftop bar with amazing views on Tagus River, Cristo Rei and 25 April Bridge. On the rooftop you will find a great statue of a mosaic girl imitating the Christ statue. It’s a great spot for a sundowner and to enjoy the early or late evening.

If you are up for another long walk along Lisbon’s Tagus River, try walking back from LX Factory to Cais do Sodré (40 minutes). Because we were quiet late and it was already dark we took the tram, but it is a lovely thing to in Lisbon as it is a nice walk back along the river.

Cais do Sodré is one of the best places for nightlife and has a lot of good Lisbon restaurants. If you want to go (back) to Bairro Alto, the place where you ended on day 1, you can choose to go with Ascensor da Bica. It’s a funicular railway line that brings you to the top of the hill with beautiful views of the streets of Bairro Alto and the Tagus River. We choose to stay in Cais do Sodré to have dinner.

I have two restaurant recommendations for you in this area: SOI (for the people who love Asian food) and ESPADA (a secret seafood hotspot). Both great Lisbon travel tips for foodies. If you want to be sure of a spot I advise you to book a table ahead. Of course, there is something for everyone at the Time Out Market: a traditional food market and food court with plenty of traditional Portuguese food and more! Worth going when visiting Lisbon.

After dinner you might want to explore the nightlife in for example Pink Street. It’s the coolest barhopping spot near the river (and a former red-light district). It’s also around the corner of LX Boutique Hotel, so if you choose to stay there it will take you only 3 minutes to reach your perfect king-sized bed. To me it was the perfect place to stay for my Lisbon trip.

Some guests criticise the loud neighborhood, but I didn’t notice any noise pollution and slept like a baby. It might be unpleasant when your window is just above the busy street, so therefore I would advise you to ask for a room at the front side or a room facing the River. Our room was very quiet and loved to sit at the window watching the city life with Cristo Rei and the Bridge in the background.

Day 3 in Lisbon

Covering: alfama neighborhood and tram 28.

Alfama is the most famous historic and oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, located between São Jorge Castelo (St. Jorge’s Castle) and Tagus River. It’s a really charming neighborhood with small coble stone streets, cozy bars and graffiti. It’s also the place where Fado was created, a Portuguese traditional music genre.

We started the day at the famous Miradouro Graffiti Fado, just outside Alfama. The most famous Fado graffiti tribute in Lisbon is Fado Vadio, a wall located in the Escadinhas de São Cristóvão. From this point you can easily continue to St. Jorge’s Castle. There are two options to get to the castle: walk the steep way up or take the free elevator. From Baixa the elevator is called Elevador Castelo.

At the top, you need to cross the street and take a second elevator. It goes upwards to the Zambeze Restaurant. This rooftop restaurant with a nice terrace offers spectacular views of Lisbon city.

If you like graffiti art I have another Lisbon travel tip for you. There’s an alternative way to get to the top and Zambeze restaurant. Walk to the Graffiti Carpark, next to Fado Vadio. Inside the carpark there are lots of graffiti paintings on every floor and if you take the lift or stairs to the top of the carpark, you also reach The Zambeze Restaurant.

From the restaurant it’s a 10-minute walk (climb) to the castle. Just follow the signs. You end up at Arco do Castelo, just near the St. Jorge’s Castle. The castle is a national monument and one of the most popular Lisbon tourist attractions. Not only because of its history but also for one of the best views of Lisbon. The castle is located on the highest hill in Lisbon. That’s the reason why the castle can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Even at night it’s part of Lisbon’s skyline.

The ruins of the castle are very impressive. The castle was destroyed during the earthquake of 1755; most of it has been renovated again and now it is one of the best places to visit in Lisbon. It still retains eleven towers. If you like archeology and nice views, it’s well worth the entrance fee of 10 euros. I would not really recommend it for disabled people, because of the climbs and stairs towards the towers (for the best views of Lisbon). The average visit of the castle takes 2 to 3 hours.

The castle area also hosts a lot of peacocks on the ground or in the trees. They are quite impressive to watch.

Searching for a lunch-spot in Alfama? Walk along the surrounding area of the castle and you will come across several small restaurants to have lunch. I highly recommend Augusto Lisboa, where we enjoyed a delicious fresh fruit juice with sweet and savory dishes. The atmosphere in the restaurant is very nice and the people are very friendly. They serve breakfast, lunch, brunch with good coffee but also different local beers. I loved their Avocado/eggs toast and their homemade banana bread! A Lisbon travel tip for hipsters for sure.

Spend some time exploring Alfama by wandering through the small cobblestone streets to enjoy the nice atmosphere. In my opinion the Alfama district is the most romantic and photogenic neighborhood of Lisbon with lovely viewpoints like Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Surely one of my favorite things to do in Lisbon. Also don’t forget to visit Sé Catedral de Lisboa; one of Lisbon’s oldest structures built in 1150.

If you haven’t been on the scenic tram 28 yet, this is your chance! Tram 28 will take you on a ride covering some of the most scenic corners of the city, a must do in Lisbon. It rides through the neighborhoods of Alfama, Graça, Estrela and Bairro Alto. In Alfama you can hop on tram 28 nearby Miradouro de Santa Luzia, one of the most beautiful panoramic viewpoints in Lisbon.

Keep in mind that queues for tram 28 can be long. Alternatively you can choose to use the shorter ride on tram 12 (or 12E). ‘E’ stands for Electric.

After a long day of strolling down the oldest neighborhood of Lisbon, you can treat yourself with a dinner in one of the Fado restaurants in Alfama or at your favorite Lisbon district. Or if you have enough time left, extend Alfama area with Parque das Nações, Estrela or Príncipe Real to end your Lisbon itinerary for day 3.

Start planning your Lisbon trip! 

Now you know aal the cool things to do in Lisbon. I found my Lisbon trip to be very charming, a great city with friendly people and I felt safe all the time. The only issue tourists may experience is pickpocketing, but if you use common sense at all times you shouldn’t experience any safety issues. I think Lisbon is one of my favorite European capital cities so far and I would love to go back in the future.

Booking.com

If you’re still searching for a good place to stay in Lisbon, LX Boutique Hotel might be your winner! Go check out their rates! The location is perfect, rooms are beautifully designed, clean and spacious and the breakfast buffet was good with enough choice, including mini ‘pastel da nata’ (yum).

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this Lisbon travel blog and that it has been useful to you. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you need more information about anything. Enjoy your trip to Lisbon and don’t forget to check out my free walking tours around the best spots and highlights of the city.

This amazing Lisbon travel guide is written by the professional travel photographer Kim Paffen for Traveltomtom. Check out her Instagram account: ourplanetinmylens .

For more of my  blogs about Portugal click on the link or head straight to my Portugal road trip blog . Don't forget to buy a sim card for Portugal , it will save you from high roaming charges.

Enjoy your trip to Lisbon!

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Things to Do in Lisbon

Bathed in pure Atlantic light, crowned by the storybook St. George's Castle and straddling seven hills, Lisbon is one of Europe's most visually striking capitals. Looks aside, the city will surely win you over with its genuine friendliness and blissfully laid-back pace. At once nostalgic and progressive, Lisbon's charm shines through in everyday life -- listening to the mournful fado songs in the Moorish Alfama's alleys, indulging in custard tarts in gilded Art Nouveau patisseries and living it up at a Bairro Alto street party.

Things to Do

Nothing says Lisbon like a ride on century-old tram 28 , which trundles past stately plazas, Estrela Basilica 's graceful dome and the Romanesque Sé Cathedral . Jump off at hilltop St George's Castle for a rampart stroll and views reaching to the Tagus River. Just steps away, the Moorish Alfama quarter's mazy lanes are full of laundry billowing, neighbors gossiping and melancholic fado songs. Down by the river, Jerónimos Monastery 's fantastically ornate Manueline cloisters whisk you back to Portugal's Age of Discovery.

Kid leather gloves, tawny port, tinned fish -- you'll find it all in the specialty stores lining Pombaline Baixa , Rossio and Chiado . Compare purchases over a bica (espresso) on the terrace of Art Deco A Brasileira café. Young Lisboetas combine bar crawling with late-night shopping in the Bairro Alto , where boutiques stock vintage fashion and the sassy collections of Portuguese style icons Lena Aires and Fátima Lopes. Avenida da Liberdade is Lisbon's catwalk of big-name designers.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Join locals for sunset shots of ginjinha (cherry liqueur) on the cobbles in front of hole-in-the-wall A Ginjinha , going strong since the 1840s. Lisbon's unrivalled hotspot is the bar-lined Bairro Alto , where revelers hit the street to chat, drink and dance before heading to riverside mega club Lux . The mood is more relaxed in the lantern-lit Alfama , where fado songs recalling lost love and destiny fill the atmospheric vaults of Clube de Fado .

Restaurants and Dining

Arrive before the crowds at the famous Antiga Confeitaria de Belém to devour crisp, cinnamon-dusted custard tarts hot from the oven. Lisboetas make the most of warm nights by dining alfresco on fresh fish in the Alfama's lantern-lit lanes and world flavors on pavement terraces in the buzzy Bairro Alto. The ornately tiled monastery-turned-beer hall Cervejaria da Trindade pairs cold beers with local specialties like bacalhau com natas (cod with cream). Go north of the city center to the stylish Michelin-starred restaurant Eleven .

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21+ Absolute Best Day Trips From Lisbon (+ How to Get There!)

Beaches, monasteries, small towns, palaces, and even islands: there is truly no shortage of incredible day trips from Lisbon, Portugal!

After spending more than a year living in Lisbon, I’m convinced that it offers more variety and beauty in its day trip options than most capital cities in Europe (which is quite the high bar).

Whether your tastes run toward history and architecture, food and wine, or beaches and sunshine, we have some incredible Lisbon day trip ideas here for you.

We’ve also included details on the best ways to get to each place, whether a tour is worth it for that particular destination, and the best things to see while you’re there.

As a result, this guide to the best places to visit near Lisbon got a bit long–feel free to use the table of contents underneath this introduction to navigate as you narrow down which day trips from Lisbon are best for you.

Table of Contents

A Quick Note On Structuring Your Day Trips From Lisbon

Quick decision: an epic + easy lisbon day trip idea, top day trips from lisbon, portugal, cities + small towns to visit near lisbon, coastal + beach towns for lisbon day trips, palaces + monasteries to visit on lisbon day trips, more of the best day trips from lisbon, beaches near lisbon for laid-back day trips, can you take a day trip from lisbon to porto, map of the best day trips from lisbon, portugal.

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If you take a look at the Lisbon day trips map that we included at the bottom of this blog post, you’ll probably notice something interesting: many of these destinations are tantalizingly close to each other!

In certain cases, it’s not uncommon to combine 2, 3, or even 4 of these places near Lisbon into one epic day trip (typically, we recommend choosing no more than 2 if you’re traveling independently, organized day tours often visit 3-4).

Some combinations, like Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca , or Fátima, Batalha Monastery, Óbidos, and Nazaré , are popularly offered by tour companies, and others are more of a do-it-yourself endeavor.

We’ll go into more detail under each individual destination, but generally speaking, if you want to visit multiple destinations in one day, we’d recommend either booking a tour or renting a car for the day .

Navigating public transportation can get stressful when trying to visit multiple destinations near Lisbon in one day, and most (not all) of these day trips are very car friendly.

If you’d like to drive, we recommend searching for your rental car through  Discover Cars , which will allow you to sift through all your options and choose the right car for you based on price, the reputation of the company that is renting it, and the terms of the rental contract.

Shop rental cars  for your day trip from Lisbon today!

Want to take an epic day trip from Lisbon, but don’t want to overthink it or sort through 20+ options?

If so, this incredibly popular day trip to Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca is perfect for you!

Variations of this tour are among the most popular things to do in all of Portugal, and booking this tour will allow you to sample the iconic Pena Palace, beautiful downtown Sintra, the beach town of Cascais, and the incredible coastal views from Cabo da Roca–all without worrying about dealing with transportation.

Given the packed schedule, you won’t be able to visit any of the destinations as in-depth as you would with more time, of course–but consider this Lisbon day trip a sampler platter of the region.

By the end of the day, you’ll have had a full taste of what makes the area surrounding Lisbon so beloved among visitors and locals alike!

Book your day trip to Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca today!

Without a doubt, Sintra, Cascais, and Cabo da Roca are the most popular day trips from Lisbon–hence why they’re covered in our quick-decision day trip option above!

If you want to visit just 1 or 2 of them, though, or hope to plan your day independently, this round-up will help you know exactly which of these top Lisbon day trips is right for you.

Sintra, with its array of fantastical, whimsical palaces and beautiful views, is absolutely the most popular day trip from Lisbon.

Here’s the catch, though: you can’t see all of Sintra’s palaces in one day, let alone see them and also visit the town and nearby attractions like Cabo da Roca or the Capuchin Convent.

You can definitely get a taste of Sintra in a day either independently or with a tour , though!

If you visit independently, you’ll have time for 2-3 palaces plus perhaps sample the town–but not all of the palaces are within walking distance of each other, so you’ll need to plan your day carefully!

Pena Palace (the iconic red and yellow one), Quinta da Regaleira (home to the Instagram-famous well and Alice in Wonderland vibes), and the Moorish Castle (epic views) are the most popular.

Monserrate Palace (one of my personal favorites) and the Sintra National Palace (arguably the best interior) are a bit lesser-known but also wonderful, and you can mix and match.

If you’re visiting independently, be sure to book your tickets for Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira in advance!

Alternatively, a tour like this ( this one is similar but visits 2 palaces ) can give you a wonderful taste of Sintra.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Sintra

Traveling from Lisbon’s Rossio Station to Sintra takes about 40 minutes by train, and there are plenty of trains to choose from each day.

From there, you’ll hop on one of a couple of bus routes to head to the palace of your choice.

Though you can take the train back as well, we’ve gotten in the habit of hailing an Uber once we’re ready to leave for the day, which is a bit pricier, but more efficient.

Lisbon’s favorite beach escape, the idyllic coastal town of Cascais is easy to access, fun to explore, and offers a fun mix of beaches, viewpoints, museums, shopping, and restaurants.

And, this beautiful coastal gem lies less than an hour from Lisbon by train!

With a package like that, it’s not surprising that Cascais is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon for locals and visitors alike.

While you’re there, be sure to explore the Old Town, visit a beach or two (Praia da Rainha is small but incredibly picturesque), and stop by one of Cascais’ museums (we loved the Castro Guimarães Museum).

By walking out to Boca do Inferno from the train station, you’ll not only meander past most of the best things to do in Cascais (including getting the postcard-worthy view of the Santa Marta Lighthouse) but you’ll also be treated to stunning views of the coast along the way.

You can easily spend a whole day in Cascais, especially if you’re visiting during the summer and want to enjoy the beach, but Cascais can also be combined with Sintra and/or Cabo da Roca, or even lesser-known nearby spots like the Cresmina Dunes.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Cascais

Cascais is extremely accessible from Lisbon by train!

Simply take one of the many trains per day from the Cais do Sodré Station near the Time Out Market directly to Cascais.

If you only want to visit Cascais, there’s no reason to book a tour–but if you’d like to see as many places as possible during your Lisbon day trip, booking a tour like this that combines Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais can be a great option.

Cabo da Roca

Once believed to be the westernmost place in mainland Europe, and now just a beloved, gorgeous viewpoint near Lisbon, Cabo da Roca is one of the most popular day trips from the Portuguese capital!

Cabo da Roca is technically part of Sintra–and one of the Sintra tourist bus routes does travel here–but it’s about a 30-minute drive from the city center.

This beautiful viewpoint still feels like it exists at the end of the world.

There’s a lighthouse to admire, a coffee shop if you get thirsty, toilets at the visitor’s center, and a parking lot… but that’s about it!

Trails lead along the coast from Cabo da Roca, so visiting can take as little as 15 minutes or as long as a full day, if you want to hike down to Praia da Ursa or another beach to while the day away (though this is not the best option for travelers with a fear of heights).

While it may seem excessive to catalog a viewpoint as a day trip–and you can and should combine Cabo da Roca with at least one more nearby destination–we have absolutely loved each and every one of our visits and highly recommend appreciating the beauty of the coastline for yourself.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Cabo da Roca

Cabo da Roca is about a 45-minute drive from Lisbon, and by far the simplest ways to visit are to rent a car and drive there (we’ve done this a few times) or visit as part of a combined day trip like this .

There isn’t direct public transportation between Lisbon and Cabo da Roca, but you can connect through Sintra or Cascais (bus 403).

The list of beautiful cities and small towns near Lisbon that make excellent day trips expands far beyond Sintra and Cascais!

If you’re looking for a gorgeous inland city or town to visit, this section is for you.

If your idea of the perfect day trip from Lisbon is climbing along the walls of a medieval castle, shopping in unique bookstores, and sampling sips of ginjinha served right on the street, Óbidos is the place for you!

This gorgeous small town is famous for being fully encircled by its medieval castle walls, and you can walk freely along the tops of them.

Be sure to stroll along Rua Direita and step inside to see the azulejo -covered interior of Igreja de Santa Maria while you’re there, too.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Óbidos

By far the simplest way to get from Lisbon to Óbidos is to rent a car and drive there , which is what we typically do.

However, there’s also an express bus service that will help you travel between Lisbon and Óbidos in about an hour.

If you’d like to combine Óbidos with other popular day trip destinations in central Portugal like Nazaré and Batalha Monastery (more about those and other potential options further down in this guide), a tour like this is a great option.

Shop organized day tours to Óbidos today!

If you’re a practicing Catholic, Fátima is arguably the most significant of all of these day trips from Lisbon–and if you’re not a practicing Catholic, it may not be on your priority list at all.

Either way, though, it’s worth keeping Fátima in mind, especially since many multi-stop day tours like this include Fátima among their locations.

Fátima is most famous for the fact that in 1917, an officially-recognized-by-the-Vatican miracle occurred: the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to 3 children in town.

Multiple popes have visited, and the location of the miracle has become a significant Catholic pilgrimage location.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Fátima

To visit Fátima from Lisbon, you’ll need to either rent a car and drive , take a bus (about an hour and a half each way), or book a tour .

It only takes a couple of hours on average to see Fátima’s major pilgrimage sites, so it is typically one stop on a greater day trip from Lisbon.

Did you know that the home of the legendary Order of the Knights Templar is found less than 2 hours north of Lisbon?

Tomar, Portugal is most famous for its Convent of Christ complex, which is a UNESCO site that was once the seat of the Knights Templar, featuring a castle, church, convent, and more.

It’s beautiful, memorable, and a bit mysterious–exactly what you would expect from a place tied to the Knights Templar!

If you plan to drive to Tomar, you can also walk along the top of the city’s aqueduct just outside of town–if you don’t mind the lack of handrails in some places, that is!

How to Travel From Lisbon to Tomar

You can reach Tomar from Lisbon by train, car, bus, or tour, making it a very versatile option for day trips from Lisbon.

Tomar is about 1.5-2 hours north of Lisbon, depending on which transportation option you pick.

Portugal’s “third city” lies conveniently on the train line between Lisbon and Porto–but this lovely city is far more than a stopover.

Coimbra is incredibly beautiful and mixes ornate architecture and lengthy history (it was the capital of Portugal from 1139 to 1385) with youthful energy.

It’s most famous for being home to the UNESCO World Heritage-recognized University of Coimbra, which is partially housed in a former royal palace and well worth touring during your day trip .

Don’t miss the stunning Biblioteca Joanina while you’re there, which just may be one of the most beautiful libraries in the world!

How to Travel From Lisbon to Coimbra

Coimbra is located about 2 hours north of Lisbon by direct train, which is by far the easiest way to get there.

As the capital of Portugal’s Alentejo region, the delightful yellow-and-white city of Évora is known for many things: wine, architecture… and bones.

Évora’s most famous attraction, its Chapel of Bones, is already enough of a reason to take a day trip from Lisbon to Évora .

Add in the stunning Évora cathedral (and the views from its rooftop), Évora’s very own Roman Temple, and plenty of other churches and attractions to explore, and this beautiful city makes for a packed day trip.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Évora

Évora is about 2 hours east of Lisbon by train (though there are only a couple of trains per day, so you’ll need to plan your time carefully) or a bit longer by bus.

If you choose to rent a car or book a tour , though, you’ll also be able to visit the 7,000-year-old megaliths that lie outside of town, which are incredible to visit.

Book your day trip to Évora and its megaliths today!

Lisbon lies tantalizingly close to the Atlantic Ocean–and as a result, there is an enormous number of charming beach towns near Lisbon that are well worth a day trip.

If you’re looking to enjoy coastal views, take a hike along the ocean, or (if you’re open to dealing with the cold water, that is) go for a swim, these day trip ideas are for you.

The beautiful beach town of Nazaré has a seasonal personality: by summer, it’s merely a charming beach town, with winding streets, a long stretch of sand, and great views.

But by winter, it’s one of the most unique day trips from Lisbon around–because this is where expert surfers ride the biggest waves in the world.

“Big wave” season runs from November to February, and visitors flock to Nazaré to admire the surfers at work (the phenomenon doesn’t happen every day, but you can track your odds of seeing giant waves here ).

How to Travel From Lisbon to Nazaré

Nazaré is about an hour and a half north of Lisbon by car or a little under 2 hours (on average) by bus.

It’s also popularly included on multi-stop day trips like this one , which also visits Fátima, Óbidos, and Batalha Monastery.

Berlengas Islands (+ Peniche)

While the town Peniche itself makes for a fun day trip, with a beautiful coastline and a local fort to explore, there’s another reason that this makes the list of the best day trips from Lisbon: it’s the launching pad to the Berlengas Islands.

The Berlengas Islands are a picturesque archipelago lying about a 45-minute ferry ride away from Peniche, perfect for quick summer getaways.

If you don’t have time to make it to the Algarve during your trip to Portugal but are craving island vibes, this is the day trip for you!

Featuring sea caves, swim spots, beaches, a lighthouse, and the picturesque São João Baptista Fort, the Berlengas Islands make for an incredibly memorable day trip.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Peniche

Due to the time-sensitive nature of catching a ferry and the goal of making the most of your limited time on the Berlengas Islands, this is one Lisbon day trip that’s better accomplished with a tour.

This can be accomplished in one of a couple of ways: first, you could either drive or take a bus to Peniche (which is about an hour and a half north of Lisbon) and then join a Berlengas Islands tour leaving from Peniche .

Alternatively, you can avoid worrying about transportation entirely by booking a full Berlengas Islands day tour like this that leaves right from Lisbon!

Book your day trip to the Berlengas Islands and Peniche today!

Azenhas do Mar

As you’ve been planning your trip to Portugal, odds are pretty high that you’ve come across a photo or 2 of the beautiful town of Azenhas do Mar!

This picturesque beach town is perched on a cliff over the Atlantic, giving the impression that its jumble of cliffside buildings is tumbling into the sea.

It’s also home to some beautiful beaches, complete with tidal pools, and restaurants serving up seafood with ocean views.

Azenhas do Mar is tiny–it’s generally combined with a multi-stop day trip to the area , which we recommend unless you’re just looking for a beach day–but definitely worth seeing.

There’s a reason that wealthy people from Lisbon and Sintra have long chosen to build luxurious summer homes on this spot!

How to Travel From Lisbon to Azenhas do Mar

While you can technically reach Azenhas do Mar from Lisbon via public transportation (many people take the train to Sintra and then catch a bus to Azenhas do Mar from there), this is a day trip destination that will be infinitely more laid back by renting a car (which is what we do) or booking a tour.

This well-reviewed tour includes Azenhas do Mar as a stop on a broader Sintra and Cascais day trip, which trades time in the other places for this extra peek at the beauty of the Portuguese coast.

Book your day trip featuring Azenhas do Mar today!

Right along the coast between Lisbon and Cascais, you’ll find the beautiful beach town of Estoril.

Above all, Estoril is famous for one thing: its casino was Ian Fleming’s inspiration for writing the first James Bond book, Casino Royale , which launched a character that has now been around for generations!

Beyond this connection, though, Estoril is a lovely resort town in its own right, with many similarities to Cascais (though often a bit less crowded).

Don’t miss Praia do Tamariz when you visit!

How to Travel From Lisbon to Estoril

Estoril is one of the easiest day trips from Lisbon to access.

A roughly 35-minute train ride from Cais do Sodré Station (with trains leaving multiple times an hour) will take you to this resort town!

Alternatively, if you want to visit both Cascais and Estoril, you can take the train all the way to Cascais and then walk along the sea until you reach Estoril.

The walk only takes about 30 minutes (depending on how many times you stop to enjoy the view, that is).

If you’re looking for a laid-back fishing and surfing village to enjoy a relaxing day trip from Lisbon, Ericeira might be the place for you!

Ericeira features a small, walkable downtown center packed with restaurants and cafes, but its main draw is simple: the beaches.

From Praia dos Pescadores to Praia do Sul and beyond, Ericeira is positively surrounded by beautiful beaches, several of them located within walking distance of town.

It’s also part of the World Surf Reserve, and a very popular place to learn to surf.

Whether you’re hoping to swim or surf (or both), Ericeira has beaches for you.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Ericeira

You can reach Ericeira by bus in less than an hour from Lisbon’s Campo Grande bus station, and buses run very regularly.

However, for maximum flexibility and in order to visit beaches outside the center (like the famous Praia de São Julião), renting a car can be very helpful.

This is especially true if you’re visiting on a weekday, when parking is less competitive than on the weekend.

The palaces and monasteries covered in this section of our guide are much less visited than some of the top day trips from Lisbon.

That’s not because they’re less worthy, but simply because they are less famous and have so many amazing places to compete with!

If you want to get a bit further off the beaten path with your Lisbon day trip choices, these are excellent options.

National Palace of Mafra

In 1717, construction broke on the National Palace of Mafra under the reign of King John V–and more than 300 years later, visitors are still streaming through the doors of this UNESCO World Heritage Site!

The opulent, expansive Mafra Palace was originally intended as a modest friary, but thanks to newfound wealth, it quickly expanded into the palace that we know today.

The National Palace of Mafra is a slightly off the beaten path day trip from Lisbon, but it delights those who make the trip.

While there are many facets of the building to admire, from the basilica to the royal apartments and beyond, the Rococo library is particularly memorable.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Mafra Palace

The National Palace of Mafra is accessible from Lisbon by bus, along the same route as the surf town of Ericeira.

The ride takes about 30-45 minutes, or alternatively, you can drive there.

Queluz National Palace

The beautiful  Queluz National Palace , with its dazzling Rococo architecture and expansive gardens, is technically one of the official palaces of Sintra… but a much less crowded one than, say, Pena Palace.

Located in Queluz between central Lisbon and Sintra, the Queluz National Palace is an excellent alternative day trip for those intrigued by Portuguese palaces but concerned about Sintra’s crowds.

Queluz’s story is as interesting as its opulent rooms are beautiful.

One of the final Rococo palaces to be built in Europe, this 18th-century palace served as the retreat of a queen in declining mental health, and was once the official residence of the Portuguese royal family.

It’s also where the royal family fled from in 1807 when they moved the court to Brazil in order to avoid Napoleon.

Thanks to being one of the more unusual Lisbon day trips, it’s also marvelously uncrowded: we practically had it to ourselves on the afternoon that we visited!

How to Travel From Lisbon to Queluz National Palace

To get to Queluz National Palace from Lisbon, you can either take a train about 20 minutes and then walk 15 minutes from the station to the palace, or take a car (which takes about 20 minutes door-to-door).

We opted to use Uber to visit the palace, since it is geographically so close to central Lisbon.

Alcobaça Monastery

The stunning Alcobaça Monastery is not only Portugal’s first-ever Gothic religious building, but it’s also one of my favorite places in Portugal and–best of all–generally uncrowded.

We had the monastery almost to ourselves when visiting on an August afternoon!

Consecrated in 1252, the Alcobaça Monastery is famously home to Portugal’s real-life star-crossed lovers, King Pedro I and his longtime lover Inês de Castro, who was eventually robbed of her life by King Pedro I’s father (but not before the couple had several children together).

Sad history aside, Alcobaça features gorgeous cloisters, a soaring nave in its church, and ornate detail throughout the structure.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Alcobaça Monastery

Alcobaça Monastery is located about an hour and a half north of Lisbon by car, or a bit longer by bus.

It’s also included on a handful of multi-stop tours through central Portugal, like this one that also visits Óbidos, Batalha, and Fátima !

Batalha Monastery

Dating to the 14th century, Batalha Monastery is (like Alcobaça), both absolutely beautiful and one of Portugal’s 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Located in the town of the same name, Batalha Monastery is a soaring Gothic complex, featuring intricate details and Manueline influences.

Don’t miss the Unfinished Chapels, which are–exactly as the name implies–ornate chapels that were never roofed in.

The effect is stunning, but you can only access them from outside the monastery, making them easy to miss if you don’t keep an eye out!

How to Travel From Lisbon to Batalha Monastery

Batalha Monastery is located about an hour and a half north of Lisbon by car, or a bit longer by bus.

Alternatively, it’s a popular inclusion on multi-stop day tours from Lisbon, like this one that also visits Óbidos, Nazaré, and Fátima !

Arrábida Natural Park

Less than an hour south of Lisbon and a hop, skip, and jump across the Tagus River, you’ll find one of the best hidden gems in Portugal: Arrábida Natural Park.

Arrábida Natural Park is a haven for outdoor lovers, whether you want to enjoy a hike, hit the beach, go kayaking , or even just enjoy a scenic drive.

Nature isn’t the only draw of the area, either: the town of Azeitão offers plenty to wine-lovers (and cheese lovers: Azeitão cheese is one of my favorites in the world), and Sesimbra’s castle is well worth seeing.

In short, this catch-all day trip from Lisbon is an excellent option for those looking to enjoy beautiful views, delicious wine, and the great outdoors.

How to Travel From Lisbon to Arrábida Natural Park

While you can technically reach Arrábida Natural Park by bus, seasonal routes and the expansive area make this one place where first-time visitors will definitely benefit from signing up for a tour .

If you’d rather explore independently, renting a car is also an option–but with so many places to visit over a fairly wide area, you’ll likely see more by letting a local take the reins.

Book your tour of Arrábida Natural Park today!

Surfing Day Trips From Lisbon

Portugal is a magnet for surfers from across the world–and there are plenty of fantastic places to surf close to Lisbon!

Whether you’re a beginner hoping to sign up for a surf lesson for the first time or an experienced surfer who just wants to spend a day with a like-minded group visiting the best surf spots near Lisbon, there’s an option nearby for you.

If you’d rather set off independently, some surf schools also offer rentals.

Book your surf lesson or surf-focused day trip from Lisbon today!

We’ve focused this day trip guide primarily on sightseeing destinations.

However, if you’re instead looking for a little sun, sea air, and relaxation, there are plenty of excellent beaches near Lisbon to visit, too (just keep in mind that this is the Atlantic, after all: the water here is not warm!).

Praia de Carcavelos is one of the most popular beaches near Lisbon, thanks to its wide stretch of sand, often calm water, and the fact that it can be accessed by train.

The beaches in central Cascais, including Praia da Rainha, Praia da Duquesa, and Praia da Conceição, are also great options that you can easily access by train.

Praia do Guincho is popular with surfers, and there are also surf schools located here!

The nearby town of Costa da Caparica, located across the Tagus River from the capital, is also a top option for beach days near Lisbon thanks to its expansive, sandy coastline.

Of course, if you look at a map of Portugal, you’ll easily be able to see that these are just a few of the many, many beaches close to Lisbon.

We specifically chose to highlight these, though, because they’re excellent options for visitors hoping to get a taste of the coast, especially without needing to rent a car.

As Portugal’s second-largest and second-most-famous city, Porto is a delight to visit–so it’s not surprising that many visitors consider taking a day trip to Porto from Lisbon!

However, we don’t recommend it.

Is it technically possible to take a day trip from Lisbon to Porto (or vice versa)?

Yes, technically–it’s about a 3-4 hour direct train ride between the two cities, and if you  pre-book your train tickets  in order to ensure you can access the trains you want, it’s theoretically possible.

However, it makes for an incredibly long day, and you’ll barely get a taste of Porto on a day trip.

If you find yourself considering a day trip to Porto, strongly consider choosing one of the many closer day trips from Lisbon instead–after all, there are plenty to choose from!

If you’re determined to take a day trip to Porto, though, here’s exactly how to make the most of it .

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

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

4 thoughts on “21+ Absolute Best Day Trips From Lisbon (+ How to Get There!)”

Is there a one or two day boat trip from Porto on the Douro?

There are many, though fair warning that visiting the Douro Valley by boat is a bit slower than driving! The trade-off is the beautiful views. 🙂 Many day trips, like this popular one, opt to drive out to the valley and then hop on a shorter boat cruise from there: https://www.getyourguide.com/porto-l151/around-the-douro-valley-all-included-t73660/?partner_id=1OI4D21&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=LisbonDayTrips

Hello, We are visiting Portugal at the end of the year with Family (6 adults and 2 kids included) anything that you recommend? We are spending 12 days between Madeira, Lisbon and Porto.

Hi Patricia,

That depends so much on your group and what you’re looking for! In terms of tips that specifically apply to traveling with a large group, I’d highly recommend booking everything you can (including restaurant reservations!) as far in advance as possible. Where a group of two might be able to afford more spontaneity, especially with dining, a larger group can be harder to squeeze in, especially in small places.

If you haven’t already seen them, our Lisbon and Porto recommended itineraries are a good starting point for our recommendations on what to do! Here’s our 3-day Lisbon guide: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-lisbon-itinerary/

Hope you guys have a wonderful trip!

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The 5 BEST Day Trips From Lisbon To Take in 2024

A re you traveling to Lisbon shortly? Not only is Lisbon an incredible city with beautiful architecture, lovely neighborhoods, and cool and quirky fashion stores and restaurants, but it’s also one of the best places to stay to embark on some amazing day trips to other parts of the country.

In this post, I’ll be diving deeper into 5 great day trips from Lisbon, what to expect at these locations, and how to get there from Lisbon.

Here we go!

Things to do in Lisbon, Portugal

When you stroll through the streets of Lisbon, you will be instantly captivated by its lively energy, architectural charm, and the smell of Portuguese custard tarts in the air. The historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto are just two popular areas to explore but getting off the beaten track is also certainly recommended, with areas like Ajuda oozing with local charm. 

Attractions not to miss in Lisbon are the iconic Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery but it’s definitely worth it to dig a little deeper and discover hidden gems that not a lot of people know about like the LX factory with colorful murals and urban art or a small bar that serves the locally brewed Portuguese liquor Ginjinha.

As a vegan traveler, I was very happy to find that places were selling vegan pastel de nata in Lisbon . These egg tart pastries are Portugal’s national dish and are seriously addictive! Furthermore, Lisbon is also home to a wide array of amazing restaurants. If you want to try authentic Portuguese cuisine in a cozy setting, visit Ze da Mouraria and try the daily special

Day trips from Lisbon

Although there is plenty to see and do in Lisbon, I recommend taking at least one day trip while there to see more of the region! Here are 5 top locations to visit from Lisbon on a day trip that are easily reachable by car or public transport! 

Cascais is a cute seaside town about 30 kilometers west of Lisbon. It was once a fishing village but has now turned into a modern and chic spot along the coast that offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the capital (although during summer months, Cascais can be just as busy as Lisbon!)

Located on the edge of the Estoril coast, Cascais is mostly famous for its lovely beaches. Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceiçao are the ones closest to town but there are also some gems to be discovered further afield like Praia de Guincho for surfing and a few quieter beaches to the east of town.

The historic center of Cascais is a maze of narrow cobbled streets where you can find cozy cafes, traditional houses, and cute shops. I can highly recommend having lunch at House of Wonders , a colorful vegetarian restaurant with an incredible rooftop bar in the center of town.

Furthermore, an afternoon of biking in the nearby Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is something that should definitely be on your to-do list. This park harbors some of the most magnificent sights in the region like Cabo da Roca and Praia de Ursa . 

Getting to Cascais from the center of Lisbon is very easy. If you have a car, take the A5 and you’ll reach Cascais in 30 minutes. If you want to travel by public transport, the best way to reach Cascais is by train. Make your way to the Cais do Sodré station train station in Lisbon, board a Cascais bound train and you will reach Cascais in 40 minutes. Trains leave the station every 20 minutes and take you along the coastline with beautiful views over the area. 

The town of Sintra makes for another great day trip from Lisbon. It is located 30 kilometers northwest of the capital and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that seems to come straight out of a fairytale. It is known for its romantic 19th-century architecture, lush landscapes, and a variety of stunning estates that are open for travelers to visit.

The most iconic of these buildings is Pena Palace , a mansion that stands on one of the highest peaks of Sintra. It is painted in vivid yellow and red colors and is a popular Instagram photo spot with views overlooking the Portuguese countryside and the Atlantic Ocean. Another wonderful building to visit is Quinta da Regaleira . This castle was constructed in the early 20th century and is famous for its fairytale-like ‘Initiation Well’ that was used for secretive ceremonial purposes in the past.

The center of Sintra can get incredibly crowded during the summer months. Even though quite touristy, it still boasts a lot of charm and there are some wonderful eateries around like A Praça , a vegetarian canteen-style restaurant that serves delicious Portuguese food with a plant-based twist. 

Getting to Sintra from Lisbon is very easy. The most convenient option is to take a train at Rossio station. These direct trains leave Lisbon every 20 minutes and take 40 minutes to reach Sintra. alternatively, you can also reach Sintra by car. It is what I did but I can assure you it’s not the most convenient option. The center of Sintra is closed off to all traffic so you will need to find a parking spot at the borders of the town. If you happen to do that, it’s worth making a stop for a pastry and a coffee at Cafe Pielas near Parque Portela 1 Norte. 

3. Ericeira

If you are looking for a picturesque fisherman village by the ocean for a day trip from Lisbon, look no further than Ericeira . This area is known to be the first “World Surfing Reserve” in Europe and is a popular summer destination for surfers, beach bums, and yoga lovers. 

Ericeira is a fantastic place if you like to laze your day away at a gorgeous beach, participate in watersports, and enjoy small-town charm. Four main beaches near the town center can easily be reached on foot. Praia do Sul is located on the southernmost side of the village. In the middle, you can find Praia dos Pescadores . At the northern tip lies Praia do Norte . A little further lies Praia de Sao Sebastiao which was my favorite beach near the town center that can easily be reached on foot. 

If you are looking to take a surf lesson in Ericeira, the best beach to visit to do this is Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas . The consistent waves and breaks here make it a surfer’s paradise and you can find two surf schools here that offer classes to both beginners as well as to intermediate to advanced surfers.

A great way to spend your day is to take a surf class in the morning and afterward enjoy a delicious brunch at Ribeira d’Ilhas Surf Restaurant & Bar . Be sure to make a reservation though during the weekend because the place can get packed with long lines to get a seat on the outdoor terrace. 

In the afternoon, you can explore the center of Ericeira on a leisurely walk. You can find Mothersurf here, an eco-friendly surf gear shops and a lot of bohemian boutique shops with jewelry, clothes and housewares. 

The most economical way to get from Lisbon to Ericera is by taking a bus. Busses leave the Campo Grande Bus Station in Lisbon multiple times a day and reach Ericeira in one to one and a half hours. The schedule is irregular but you can find the timetable on the website of Carris Metropolitana. Another way to reach Ericeira is by car. Parking space can be found quite well around town and having a car also allows you to explore the beaches more easily that are located further from town.

If you’ve had enough of the fast-paced rhythm of Lisbon maybe a day trip to this off-the-beaten-path location by the ocean might be just for you. Ribamar is a small seaside village of only 1800 inhabitants and lies about 38 km from the center of Lisbon and 3 km north of Ericeira. 

If you are a conscious traveler then you will adore Ribamar because of its authentic local charm. It’s a place where all the locals know each other, and where you still get a genuinely warm welcome when you enter the pharmacy, the local coffee shop, or the town’s small supermarket.

You can park your car in the center of Ribamar and hit the coastal hiking trails around Coxos Beach upon your arrival. From here, you get amazing vistas over the ocean and it’s a lovely spot to take stunning pictures. The trails are surrounded by lovely Aloe Vera plants and you will meet many locals here going for their morning run or walk with their dog.

After the hike, make your way to Praia de Sao Lourenço . This beach can get crowded in the summer but manages to retain a local vibe since most foreign tourists aim to stay in Ericeira. There is a lovely beach shack on the beach that makes an ideal spot to enjoy a coffee after your hike. 

If you are feeling hungry, there are two places in Ribamar to add to your itinerary. Pu Ro is a small brunch spot that offers healthy dishes like burrito bowls and vegan burgers. Barzhino on the other hand is the place to check out if you fancy a cocktail with tapas and lasagna.

There is no public transport serving Ribamar, so your best option is to rent a car and drive yourself or take a taxi from Lisbon to pick you up and drop you off. Alternatively, you can also take a bus at Campo Grande Bus Station in Lisbon to Ericeira and take a taxi from Ericeira to Ribamar.

The final town that is worth a day trip from Lisbon is the beautiful town of Evora. Located about 130 km east of Lisbon, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history dating back ot the Roman times. The town is the perfect place to visit for travelers who are into medieval architecture and the center is surrounded by vast plains and vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Once you arrive in Evora, you’ll be mesmerized by this place’s well-preserved old town with narrow cobblestone streets and centuries-old aqueducts. The locals are known for their laid-back and welcoming nature and they make you feel at home whether you’re browsing through the local market or stepping into one of the cute cafés.

Start your day at the Roman Temple in Evora. It was built for the emperor Augustus in the 1st century and is one of the best-preserved Roman structures in Portugal. Then, make your way to the haunting Chapel of Bones which is decorated with the bones of over 5,000 monks.

Another great thing to do in Evora is to go on a tour of Portugal’s very own Stonehenge. The town is surrounded by three main megalithic sites and they are completely free to enter!

If you get hungry, head to the lovely local restaurant Tasquinha do Oliveira for a taste lunch of traditional Portuguese cuisine. They offers dishes like spinach pie and  sell the most yummy pieces of portuguese pie in town.

Getting to Evora from Lisbon is pretty straightforward. You can reach Evora by car by taking the A2 and A6 roads in a 1.5-hour drive. Alternatively, you can take a train from Lisbon’s Oriente Station. Direct trains level for Evora six times a day and offer a scenic journey into the heart of Portugal’s countryside.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are many great day trips to be had from Lisbon. Many locations are also easily reachable by public transport from the capital which makes it convenient to travel around in an eco-friendly way. No matter if you are looking for a day of culture, beach time, or watersports, you can find all of these things less than 2 hours away from Lisbon. Enjoy!

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