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Top 10 Attractions and 50 Things to Do in Lisbon

The most extraordinary sights and the most memorable experiences.

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, Lisbon

1. Jerónimos Monastery

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

See the Jerónimos Monastery Visitor's Guide .

Torre de Belém, Lisbon

2. Belém Tower

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

See the Belém Tower Visitor's Guide .

Castelo de São Jorge, Lisbon

3. St. George's Castle

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

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

Museu Calouste Gulbenkian, Lisbon

4. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

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

See the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Visitor's Guide .

MAAT, Lisbon

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

See the MAAT Visitor's Guide .

Museu dos Coches, Lisbon

6. Coaches Museum

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

See the Coaches Museum Visitor's Guide .

Parque das Nações, Lisbon

7. Parque das Nações

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

See the Parque das Nações Visitor's Guide .

Museu do Azulejo, Lisbon

8. Tile Museum

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

See the Tile Museum Visitor's Guide .

Museu de Arte Antiga, Lisbon

9. Ancient Art Museum

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

See the Ancient Art Museum Visitor's Guide .

Museu Berardo, Lisbon

10. MAC/CCB

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

See the MAC/CCB Visitor's Guide .

40 OTHER MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

Padrão dos Descobrimentos, Lisbon

Discoveries Monument

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

See the Discoveries Monument Visitor's Guide .

Praça do Comércio, Lisbon

Rua Augusta Arch

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

See the Rua Augusta Arch Visitor's Guide .

Miradouro das Portas do Sol, Lisbon

Portas do Sol Viewpoint

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

See the Portas do Sol Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, Lisbon

São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint

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

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

Elevador de Santa Justa, Lisbon

Santa Justa Elevator

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

See the Santa Justa Elevator Visitor's Guide .

Miradouro de Santa Luzia, Lisbon

Santa Luzia Viewpoint

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

See the Santa Luzia Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Ribeira das Naus, Lisbon

Ribeira das Naus

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

See the Ribeira das Naus Visitor's Guide .

Lx Factory, Lisbon

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

See the Lx Factory Visitor's Guide .

MuDe Design and Fashion Museum, Lisbon

MuDe - Design & Fashion Museum

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

See the MuDe Visitor's Guide .

Palácio da Ajuda, Lisbon

Royal Palace of Ajuda

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

See the Ajuda Palace Visitor's Guide .

Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora, Lisbon

São Vicente de Fora Monastery

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

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

Lisbon Cathedral

Lisbon Cathedral

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

See the Lisbon Cathedral Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de São Roque, Lisbon

Igreja de São Roque

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

See the Igreja de São Roque Visitor's Guide .

Igreja de Santa Catarina, Lisbon

Igreja de Santa Catarina

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

See the Igreja de Santa Catarina Visitor's Guide .

Miradouro da Graça, Lisbon

Graça Viewpoint

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

See the Graça viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Miradouro de Santa Catarina, Lisbon

Santa Catarina Viewpoint

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

See the Santa Catarina Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Lisbon

Senhora do Monte Viewpoint

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

See the Senhora do Monte Viewpoint Visitor's Guide .

Elevador da Bica, Lisbon

Bica Funicular

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

See the Bica Funicular Guide .

Mercado da Ribeira, Lisbon

Ribeira Market

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

See the Ribeira Market Visitor's Guide .

Docas de Santo Amaro, Lisbon

Docas de Santo Amaro

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

See the Docas de Santo Amaro Visitor's Guide .

Cristo Rei, Lisbon

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

See the Cristo Rei Visitor's Guide .

Convento do Carmo, Lisbon

Carmo Convent

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

See the Carmo Convent Visitor's Guide .

Panteão Nacional, Lisbon

National Pantheon

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

See the National Pantheon Visitor's Guide .

Basilica da Estrela, Lisbon

Basílica da Estrela

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

See the Basílica da Estrela Visitor's Guide .

Palácio Fronteira, Lisbon

Fronteira Palace

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

See the Fronteira Palace Visitor's Guide .

Parque Eduardo VII, Lisbon

Edward VII Park

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

See the Edward VII Park Visitor's Guide .

Jardim do Príncipe Real, Lisbon

Jardim do Príncipe Real

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

See the Jardim do Príncipe Real Visitor's Guide .

Vasco da Gama Bridge, Lisbon

Vasco da Gama Bridge

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

See the Vasco da Gama Bridge Visitor's Guide .

Pink Street, Lisbon

Pink Street

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

See the Pink Street Visitor's Guide .

Roman Theater, Lisbon

Lisbon Museum

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

See the Lisbon Museum Visitor's Guide .

Orient Museum, Lisbon

Orient Museum

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

See the Orient Museum Visitor's Guide .

Casa Museu Medeiros e Almeida, Lisbon

Medeiros e Almeida Museum

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

See the Medeiros e Almeida Visitor's Guide .

Museu de Marinha, Lisbon

Maritime Museum

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

See the Maritime Museum Visitor's Guide .

Jardim Tropical, Lisbon

Tropical Botanical Garden

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

See the Tropical Botanical Garden Visitor's Guide .

Aqueduct, Lisbon

Águas Livres Aqueduct

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

See the Aqueduct and Water Museum Visitor's Guide .

Amoreiras 360, Lisbon

Amoreiras 360º

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

See the Amoreiras 360º Visitor's Guide .

Museu do Chiado, Lisbon

National Contemporary Art Museum of Chiado

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

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

Museu Militar, Lisbon

Military Museum

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

See the Military Museum Visitor's Guide .

Lisbon Beach

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

See the Lisbon Beaches Guide .

Sintra

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

See the Sintra Tourism Guide .

Lisbon Hotel

Top Places to Stay

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

Alfama neighborhood, Lisbon

Complete Lisbon Guide

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Where to Stay

Hotels in Alfama and the Castle

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Hotels in Bairro Alto

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Hotels in Avenidas Novas

Neighborhoods

Avenida da Liberdade

Avenidas Novas

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Campo de Ourique

Parque das Nações

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Top 50 Attractions

Top 30 Museums

Top 30 Viewpoints

Best Beaches

Best Day Trips

Itinerary Advice

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On a Rainy Day

1 Day in Lisbon

Tourist Card

Tourist Map

Most Popular Attractions

Jerónimos Monastery

Belém Tower

Castle of St. George

Ajuda Palace

Coaches Museum

Tile Museum

MAC/CCB Museum

Ancient Art Museum

Pena Palace (Sintra)

Most Popular Beaches

Praia da Conceição

Costa da Caparica

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo

Praia da Ursa

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Train to Belém

Glória Funicular

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PlanetWare.com

25 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Lisbon

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

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

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

Belém Tower in the River Tagus, Lisbon

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

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

1. Castelo de São Jorge: An Iconic Landmark

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

Castelo de São Jorge: An Iconic Landmark

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

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

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

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

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

Castelo de Sao Jorge - Floor plan map

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

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

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

Oceanário de Lisboa: A Modern Aquarium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Avenida de Berna 45A, Lisbon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Rua das Janelas Verdes, Lisbon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Avenida Brasília, Doca de Alcântara, Lisbon

Torre de Belém: A Historic Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Rua da Madre de Deus 4, Lisbon

Elevador de Santa Justa

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

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

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

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

Elevador da Bica

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

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

Address: Rua de Santa Justa, Baixa, Lisbon

Sé: Lisbon's Imposing Cathedral

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

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

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

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

Lisbon Cathedral - Floor plan map

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

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

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

Address: Avenida da Brasília, Belém, Lisbon

Sintra's Pena Palace

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

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

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

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sintra

Arco da Rua Augusta: A Triumphal Arch

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Rua Augusta, Lisbon

Lisboa Story Centre: Exploring Lisbon's Vibrant History

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

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

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

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

Address: Terreiro do Paço 78-81, Lisbon

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Largo do Carmo, Lisbon

Igreja-Museu São Roque

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Largo Trindade Coelho, Lisbon

Igreja de Sao Roque - Floor plan map

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

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

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

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

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

Ceramic work at the Museu Bordalo Pinheiro

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

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

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

Address: Campo Grande 382, Lisbon

Palácio dos Marqueses de Fronteira

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Largo São Domingos de Benfica 1, Lisbon

Aqueduto das Águas Livres / Mãe d'Agua das Amoreiras

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

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

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

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

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

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

Basílica da Estrela: The Beautiful Star Basilica

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

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

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

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

Address: Praça da Estrela, Lisbon

Basilica da Estrela - Floor plan map

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

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

Address: Avenida da Índia, Belém

Museu de Arte, Arquitectura e Tecnologia (MAAT)

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

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

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

Address: Avenida Brasília, Belém

Time Out Market

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

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

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

Umbrella Street

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

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

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

Luxury Hotels :

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

Mid-Range Hotels:

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

Budget Hotels:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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best tourist place in lisbon

18 Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

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

  • All Things To Do

best tourist place in lisbon

Tram 28 Tram 28

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

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

best tourist place in lisbon

Belém Belém free

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

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

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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.

best tourist place in lisbon

Santa Justa Lift Santa Justa Lift

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

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

best tourist place in lisbon

Lisbon Cathedral Lisbon Cathedral free

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

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

best tourist place in lisbon

Sintra Sintra free

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

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

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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.

best tourist place in lisbon

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

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

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

best tourist place in lisbon

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

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

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

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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.

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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.

best tourist place in lisbon

Monastery of Jerónimos Monastery of Jerónimos

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

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

best tourist place in lisbon

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

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

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

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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.

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Carmo Convent Carmo Convent

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

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

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Lisbon

By Chadner Navarro and Alia Akkam

Museum of Art Architecture and Technology  Lisbon Portugal

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 of Lisbon Portugal. View of the eastern corner. Built in neoclassical style today is a museum

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.

Portugal Lisbon Attraction Tram 28

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

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.

Portugal Lisbon Market Time Out Market Lisboa

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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.

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Museum of Art Architecture and Technology  Lisbon Portugal

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.

Portugal Lisbon Museum Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

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.

Portugal Lisbon Attraction Praça do Comércio

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.

The interior of Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Encarnacao church in Lisbon Portugal.

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.

Portugal Lisbon Attraction São Jorge Castle

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.

Portugal Lisbon Restaurant Café A Brasiliera

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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.

Portugal Lisbon Attraction Jéronimos Monastery

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.

Portugal Lisbon Restaurant Clube de Fado

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.

Portugal Lisbon Attraction Belém Tower

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.

Portugal Lisbon Attraction Pastéis de Belém

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.

Portugal Lisbon Attraction Santa Justa Lift

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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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Convent Square Lisbon, Vignette Collection, an IHG Hotel

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Full Suitcase Travel Blog

28 Absolute Best Things to Do in Lisbon (+Map & Insider Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 29, 2024

28 Absolute Best Things to Do in Lisbon (+Map & Insider Tips)

Visiting Lisbon for the first time and curious about what to see and do in Portugal’s capital city? In this article, we share our top tips for the very best things to do in Lisbon . Find out!

While we have been to Portugal and Lisbon several times, for this ‘Best of Lisbon’ guide, we also asked for some top suggestions from an insider . Antoine from Bug in Our Bag travel blog lived in Lisbon for almost a year and knows the city inside out.

So this article not only covers all the must-see Lisbon attractions but also includes lots of local tips and personal recommendations that will help you make the most of your visit. With insider tips, you will be able to explore this beautiful city a bit deeper and fall in love with it as we did.

TIP: To help you plan your trip, we also created a map indicating all the best things to do in Lisbon. You can save it to your Google account and use it during the trip. This map also includes our personal recommendations for where to eat which you’ll find mentioned in this guide. Take a look below and scroll down for our complete list of the best places to see and things to experience in Lisbon!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Good to know: While not always easy to rank the best spots, we tried to sort this list starting with the must-see places in Lisbon first. But so much also depends on your interests and the time that you have. In addition, some places are really close to each other and can be easily visited together, even if not an absolute ‘must’.

So use this list as an inspiration, take a look at the map, and see how you can best plan your itinerary and see the best of Lisbon in the time that you have.

We also include a few of the very best places to visit near Lisbon that you really shouldn’t miss if you have at least a day to spare, plus info on how to best get there. At the bottom of this article, you can also find some practical information for your visit to Lisbon , tour and hotel recommendations, and more.

TIP: Lisbon Card includes entry to many of the top attractions in Lisbon and offers unlimited free access to public transport. It’s really good value and saves time as well.

BEST OF LISBON IN A NUTSHELL: * TOP-5: Praça do Comércio, Alfama, Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift. * FUN TO DO: Traditional trams & funiculars, sailing cruise on the Tagus River , LX Factory, live Fado show . * MUST TRY: Pastéis de nata. * WHERE TO STAY: €€€€ Browns Central , €€€ Rossio Boutique Hotel , €€ Hotel Gat Rossio . * NEARBY: The palaces of Sintra are a must. Read also our guide to the best day trips from Lisbon .

These are the very best things to do in Lisbon:

1. Praça do Comércio

Located in Baixa Chiado, Commerce Square ( Praça do Comércio ) is the main town square in Lisbon, and it is a must-see. This is one of the largest squares in Europe. In the past, it was home to the Royal Palace which was destroyed by an earthquake in the 18th century. Nowadays, it houses several government buildings and is lined by cafes and restaurants.

In the middle of the square, there is a statue of the former King Joseph I (José I) riding a horse. At the back, there is a triumphal arch – Arco Triunfal da Rua Augusta – with statues of Vasco da Gama and Marquès de Pompal, two remarkable Portuguese figures. There is also a small viewing platform at the top of this arch that can be visited for a small fee.

If you walk under the arch, you can’t miss Rua Augusta , a pedestrian street with shops, restaurants, street artists and performers, and many vendors selling all kinds of souvenirs. This is probably the most touristy street in Lisbon…

On the southern end of the square, next to the river, you’ll see Cais de Colunas , a marble flight of steps flanked by two impressive columns. This is a great place to take pictures. Do not miss the amazing walk alongside the river, from Praça do Comércio to Cais do Sodré (turn right if facing the river). This is a nice place to be, especially if you are visiting Lisbon in the summer.

TIP: There is an amazing bar on the square which is called Museu da Cerveja (the Beer Museum). They serve beers from all over Portugal and their beer sangria is absolutely delicious too. If you manage to get a seat outside, it is the best way to enjoy Praça do Comércio.

Good to know: Praça do Comércio is right next to the river, so it can be very windy here, even more than the rest of Lisbon. It can get quite cold here in winter, but in summer, it’s often nice to enjoy a breeze.

Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio) in Lisbon

Walking through the historic Alfama district may be the very best thing to do in Lisbon! This is such a picturesque part of town and a beautiful area to just wander around without a plan. All the small alleys are worth taking a picture of!

Alfama is one of the oldest and most authentic districts in Lisbon and a place where you should really take the time to explore deeper. You can easily visit on your own, but prepare to get lost in the maze of narrow streets, staircases, and passages.

As you wander through Alfama, put your map aside and simply enjoy the area. There are nice viewpoints, cool street art, local cafes, and boutique shops. You’ll likely come across some local food stands in the narrow streets. The old ladies offer Ginja and Licor de Pasteis de Nata for 1 or 2 Euros. It’s totally worth it!

TIP: If there is one place in Lisbon where it would be interesting to go with a local guide, it’s probably Alfama. It’s so easy to get lost and lose track of time… So if you don’t have the time to ‘get lost’, you may consider joining a walking tour of Alfama or discovering Alfama with this highly-rated segway tour .

Good to know: This area is very hilly, with lots of staircases as well. So if you have some walking difficulties, you may want to stick to the main areas and bigger streets. Just as Rome, Lisbon is often called “the city of 7 hills” and you’ll quickly know why.

Interesting to know: Together with the other historic neighborhoods in Lisbon center, Alfama also hosts the best party in town. Indeed, every year, on the 12-13th of June, Lisbon enjoys the famous ‘ Lisbon Sardine Festival ‘ (officially, Santo Antonio Festival). The whole district is filled with music and dance and transforms into a sardine-grilling open-air restaurant.

Colorful buildings and traditional tram in Alfama Lisbon

3. Miradouro de Santa Luzia & Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Miradouro Santa Luzia is the best viewpoint in Alfama and it’s one place you really shouldn’t miss! Here, you can enjoy one of the best views of the rooftops of Alfama and the cruise ships passing by in the distance.

This is a bustling, picturesque area where you will find lots of cafes. It’s also a good place to see colorful city trams and also azulejos , traditional ceramic tiles of Portugal.

TIP: Right next to Santa Luzia, there is another viewpoint called Miradouro das Portas do Sol . The view is very similar, but since you are here anyway, it is worth checking out.

Good to know: This area is extremely busy and can get crowded during the day (especially between 11 am to 5 pm when day tourists from cruise ships are in town). So if you can, visit here in the morning or in the evening. Also, be careful of pickpockets. There are also people who offer wristbands and small ‘gifts’; avoid them as they ask for money later!

Miradouro de Santa Luzia is must see in Lisbon!

4. Lisbon Cathedral – Sé de Lisboa

Located in Alfama, Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) is the oldest and most iconic church in the city. And while it’s not as grand as many other famous cathedrals in major European cities, it’s definitely one of the must-sees in Lisbon and well worth a few minutes of your time.

Built by Alfonso I in 1147, the Cathedral has witnessed many earthquakes, including Lisbon’s famous earthquake in 1755, and it has been renovated and rebuilt many times throughout the centuries. This resulted in a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architecture, but you’ll also find some remains from Medieval times.

In addition to the Cathedral itself, it’s well worth visiting its cloister and upstairs treasury where you can see all kinds of jewels and historic relics. You also can enjoy a nice view of the city if you go up here.

The Cathedral tends to be very busy during the day, so if you don’t feel like going inside, at least check it out from the outside. Taking a picture of the Cathedral and the iconic Lisbon tram 28 is a must!

Good to know: The Cathedral is open daily, but there’s a mass on Sunday mornings so do not visit at that time. There’s now a small fee to enter the church. The ticket includes the Upper Choir and Balcony, a visit to the Tesouro da Sé museum, and a tour of the Basilica’s naves and ambulatory. You can find more info and book a ticket here .

Sé Cathedral in Lisbon

5. Rossio Square (Don Pedro IV Square)

Praça Dom Pedro IV (aka Rossio Square) is located in the Baixa Chiado neighborhood. Rossio is the historical name of Don Pedro IV Square. Its new name is a tribute to the first emperor of Brazil. In the middle of the square, you can also see his statue.

It is said that at Rossio Square, a waitress offered red flowers to rebel soldiers who were fighting against the Salazar dictatorship. Those flowers became the symbol of the 25 of April revolution against Salazar.

Rossio Square dates from the 18th century and has always been a popular meeting point in the city. Be sure to check out the historic Café Nicola . Just keep in mind that the food and the service is very tourist-oriented, so maybe just visit for the atmosphere and stop here for a drink.

There are also several other traditional shops here where you can buy and/or taste typical Portuguese food or drinks. Don’t miss the Fantastic World Of Portuguese Sardines (O Mundo Fantástico da Sardinha Portuguesa) , a shop dedicated to canned sardines. It’s really cool to see and you can buy sardines with your birth year on the box. If you are looking for some unusual souvenirs or gifts to take home, check them out!

TIP: The nearby Rossio train station is a stunning building. It looks particularly impressive at night as the whole square and the building are beautifully lit.

Don Pedro IV Square - Rossio Square Lisbon

6. Jerónimos Monastery

Jerónimos Monastery or Hieronymites Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) is one of the absolute must-sees in Lisbon! This monastery is located in Belem, a bit outside of the city center, and was built during the 16th century. It is a marvelous example of Gothic and Baroque architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is also where the historic Treaty of Lisbon was signed.

The architecture of the Monastery is stunning and the huge building is already very impressive from the outside. But once you step inside, it’s absolutely breathtaking! Take your time to walk around and enjoy all the details! Inside, there are also tombs of Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões. The church is even more beautiful than Lisbon Cathedral and definitely worth a visit!

Good to know: This is one of the most popular Lisbon attractions, so expect big crowds. If you want to make the most of your visit, go as soon as it opens in the morning (arrive at least half an hour before opening) or about an hour before closing time. Also, get your tickets in advance – even then, you’ll have to pick up your ticket up at the National Museum of Archaeology located right next to the Monastery. So be sure to do this first, before you start queuing at the entrance.

Practical information: Jeronimos Monastery is open daily except from 10 am to 6.30 pm (to 5 pm between October and April). On Sundays and during religious holidays, it’s only open in the afternoon, from 2 pm. Closed for Easter, Christmas, and New Year.

Getting there: The Monastery is a short ride from the city center. You can reach it by boat, taxi, or by public transport. Tram 15 connects this part of the city to the center.

TIP: Lisbon Card includes all public transport in Lisbon and – among many other attractions – also entrance tickets to the Monastery and Belem Tower (see below). It’s a very good investment if you are in the city for a few days and are planning to do a lot of sightseeing. Unlimited free access to public transport will also save you lots of walking and time trying to figure out how and where to get bus/tram tickets.

Jeronimos Monastery as seen from Praca do Imperio Gardens with a fountain

7. Belém Tower & Riverside

Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) is one of the most iconic landmarks of Lisbon. It was built next to the Tagus River in the 16th century as an advanced fortress to protect Lisbon Harbor and as a symbol to the Age of Discovery (15-16th centuries). After the Lisbon invasion by the Spanish in 1580, the tower was used as a prison.

Just as the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, it was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

The tower is probably most impressive from the outside, but you can also visit inside and climb to the top if you feel like it. However, it’s usually very busy here and the queues can be very long. Furthermore, there is not much shade and you might have to wait for a long time, so make sure you have some sun protection, sunscreen, and water. If you get your ticket in advance , you can normally skip the longest queues.

Good to know: Belem Tower has the same opening times as Jeronimos Monastery. If you already come to Belem, you should definitely visit both of these landmarks. In that case, you may want to get this combination ticket for both places (it includes a few other benefits as well).

TIP: As already mentioned, the Belem Tower visit is also included with Lisbon Card . If you are planning to visit both of these places, it’s probably easier to just get this card, also because it has so many other benefits.

If you are visiting this part of Lisbon, take some time to walk by the river as well. There are some nice sights, in addition to the two main landmarks that everyone visits. To start with, the impressive Monument of the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) , but also Belem Lighthouse (Farol de Belém) , and also MAAT Museum is well worth a visit if you have more time. Even if you don’t go inside, the architecture is really impressive and well worth seeing (both the modern part as well as the old power station).

Just nearby, there are many more sights and museums that might be worth it if you have several additional days in Lisbon. In that case, you may want to check out the National Coach Museum (Museu Nacional dos Coches), contemporary art Museu Coleção Berardo, and several others.

Belem Tower in Lisbon

8. Castelo de São Jorge

St. George Castle (Castelo de S. Jorge) is an impressive Moorish castle set high on one of the hills in the center of Lisbon. Located in the Alfama district, it has some of the best views over the entire town. And because it’s so close to all the other main sights in Lisbon, this castle is extremely popular and very busy, especially during the day.

The castle was built by the Moors in the mid 11th century. It then served as the Royal Palace (13-15th century) and later was used for military barracks. The castle was also largely destroyed by the Lisbon earthquake, and the area was taken over by military installations. It was only in the 1940s that the castle was rebuilt and was opened to the public to enjoy.

Though there is not much to see inside the castle, the buildings are impressive and the views from here are absolutely stunning. You have an amazing panorama of the city, with the Christ statue and Ponte 25 de Abril bridge in the distance.

Practical info: The castle is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm. Kids under 12 can visit free and there are discounts for students and seniors. Count about 45-60 minutes for a visit (not including the time to get in). You can get an e-ticket online .

Good to know: The queues here can be very long so getting a ticket in advance is the best way to visit if you are short on time.

TIP: Wear sensible shoes – there are lots of staircases and walls to climb for the best views. For fewer crowds and nice sunset views, visit in the evening.

St George Castle in Lisbon

9. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte & Miradouro da Graça

Being such a hilly city, it will come as no surprise that Lisbon has many amazing viewpoints . We already mentioned a few of the most popular viewpoints above, and further down this list, you’ll find quite a few more. But if you are looking for the highest point where you can see almost the entire city, then definitely don’t miss Miradouro da Senhora do Monte . The views here are amazing!

The best time to come here is early in the morning or at sunset. During the day, the sun will be right in front of you, making it difficult to enjoy the best views or take pictures.

This viewpoint is located a bit further away from most other attractions, but it’s within walking distance to Castelo de S. Jorge and there’s also another nice viewpoint between the two places – Miradouro da Graça , so if you plan well and combine these three places together, it doesn’t feel like it’s out of the way.

TIP: The best way to visit is to take a taxi or a tram to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and then walk down to Miradouro da Graça (about 10-15 minutes walk) and on to the castle from there (another 10-15 minutes).

This is how we started our day in Lisbon when we visited the very first time and it was a great introduction to the city. Also, the walk is really nice, you get to see some local areas and lots of buildings with traditional Portuguese tiles azulejos .

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte in Lisbon

10. Santa Justa Lift

Santa Justa Elevator (Elevador de Santa Justa) is one of the coolest things to do in Lisbon! Located in Baixa Chiado, this elevator was built in 1902 to link the lower part of town to Carmo Square in Bairro Alto. It is now one of the most famous tourist attractions in town!

Once on top, you have access to a stunning viewing platform with an amazing 360° view of Lisbon. And while Lisbon has so many great viewpoints, this is one you really shouldn’t miss! Also the experience of riding this historic lift is something you won’t quickly forget.

Good to know: The Santa Justa Lift is open daily from around 7 am to 10.45 pm. The ticket costs about 5.5 Euro. This includes a trip up, access to the viewing platform, and the trip back down. Kids are free of charge.

TIP: There is always a big queue here during the day, but since the lift is open until late in the evening, consider coming later in the day when most day tourists have left.

Good to know: Santa Justa Lift is part of the public transport network in Lisbon so it’s also included with Lisbon Card and also with the hop-on-hop-off bus tickets . However, you may have to pay an additional 1.5-2 Euro to access the viewing platform.

Santa Justa Lift - one of the most popular Lisbon attractions

11. Carmo Convent

Just near the top station of Santa Justa Lift, you’ll find one of the nicest museums in Lisbon, Carmo Archeological Museum located in Carmo Convent (Convento do Carmo) .

Built in the 14th century and enhanced and richly decorated over the centuries, Igreja do Carmo was one of the most impressive churches in Lisbon, rivaling the Lisbon Cathedral. However, the 1755 earthquake caused serious damage and almost completely destroyed the church. Reconstruction was started but was interrupted in the 19th century.

It was later decided to leave the ‘romantic’ look of this roofless chapel as it is. And indeed, it’s a very impressive ruin, and probably even more so because it doesn’t have a roof…

The building now houses an impressive archeological museum, but its biggest charm remains the architecture of the church ruins. You can get a free audio tour or join a guided tour and learn all about the building and its turbulent history. Well worth a small detour if you are taking the Santa Justa Lift anyway!

Practical information: The museum is open daily except on Sundays and some public holidays. Tickets are just a few euros and kids under 14 visit free of charge. For more info, see their website .

TIP: On summer evenings, don’t miss the wonderful light show at Carmo Convent. It’s called “Lisbon Under Stars” and is an extraordinary way to experience this unique place. In season, you can book tickets here .

Carmo Convent in Lisbon

12. Tram 28

Historical Lisbon tramway lines were built in 1873, and the first trams were pulled by horses. The electrification of the tramway started in the 20th century and Lisbon’s tramway network had 27 lines in the 1960s. Today, there are still 6 of the original lines and the most famous of them all is line 28.

No journey to Lisbon would be complete without seeing the famous tram 28 ! It’s usually yellow, but you’ll see red trams as well, and also colorful trams covered in ads… This historic tramline connects Martim Moniz with Campo Ourique and passes through the districts of Alfama, Baixa Chiado, Graca, and Estrela.

If you have the time, it might be worth it to do at least part of this journey. However, the tram is often really crowded and it’s also a popular place for pickpockets… So for the best experience, avoid traveling during the day (it’s much quieter in the morning or in the evening). Also, board the tram at one of its end stations (indicated on our map) if you want to be sure to get a seat.

If you are planning to make an entire journey, it’s easier to get a 1-day public transport ticket (or the earlier-mentioned Lisbon Card). This will save you the stress of having to buy tickets on the crowded tram.

Insider recommendation: The tramway depot is located next to LX Factory in Alcantara (more about this cool place further below). It is perfect to take pictures while they are empty and not moving. There is also a museum called Carris Museum which used to be a depot of tramways. This is a good opportunity for the children to see the trams and the metro up close, without the crowd in the city.

TIP: If you find it all a bit overwhelming, some Lisbon walking tours (like this one ) include a short ride on Tram 28. There’s also a very nice tuk-tuk tour that covers the entire route of tram 28 , allowing you to see the same places in a much more relaxed way and without the crowds.

Unless you absolutely want to sit (more likely stand) in the original tram, this is probably a better alternative. And you get to see plenty of trams along the way! It’s also much easier to take pictures from a tuk-tuk than from a window of a moving tram.

Tram 28 in Lisbon Portugal

13. São Vicente de Fora Church & Monastery

São Vicente de Fora Monastery (Mosteiro de São Vicente de Fora) and its church – Igreja de São Vicente de Fora – sits high on the hill in Alfama district and you’ll see it from various viewpoints in the city. But it’s well worth taking your time to actually visit the church as well.

It is called Fora (which means ‘outside’ in Portuguese) because the monastery was originally built outside the city walls. Nowadays, this area is the heart of Lisbon… The monastery was founded in the 12th century and was then reconstructed in the late 16th – early 17th century, but most of its rich decorations date from the 17-18th centuries.

You can visit the church, the monastery museum, and be sure to climb the towers for an amazing view from the rooftop terrace. Yes, one more viewpoint in Lisbon, but that’s what Lisbon is all about.

Good to know: The monastery is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, except Mondays and some public holidays. Count at least an hour for a visit, plus the time to get there. Kids under 12 visit for free. For more info, please check their website .

TIP: The museum entrance door is hidden from the view and it’s really easy to miss it if you don’t know about it (and miss the best part and the view). The door is on your right when you are looking at the church.

Sao Vicente de Fora Church and Monastery in Lisbon

14. Tagus River Sailing Cruise

Taking a river cruise on the Tagus River is one of our personal recommendations for anyone visiting Lisbon! It’s such a great way to see a different side of the city, relax, and rest your legs from all the walking while taking in some amazing sights along the river.

There are many different sailing tours in Lisbon , and I really think you can’t go wrong with any of them. For the best experience, I recommend going in the evening. The light is beautiful (there are sunset cruises as well), it’s easier to plan your day this way, and it’s such a great, relaxing way to end your day in Lisbon.

If you are with a bigger family or group of friends as we were, private tours are a great option too. We did this on our first trip to Lisbon and booked a private sailing cruise for our family. It was an unforgettable experience that I highly recommend to anyone, no matter how much time you have in the city. It will make your visit so much more special!

TIP: If you prefer ‘regular’ and more budget-friendly boat tours, there are also sightseeing boat tours available on the Tagus River. But sailing trips are truly a very unique experience, so if you do just one of the two, go sailing!

Sailing on the Tagus River in Lisbon

15. Praça da Figueira & Mercado da Baixa

Just one minute walking from Rossio Square, there is another really nice town square that you have to see in Lisbon – Praça da Figueira (Square of the Fig Tree).

It has a perfect square shape and used to have the statue of King John I (Dom João I) right in the middle. Now, however, the statue has been moved to the corner because there is a local market – Mercado da Baixa – that takes place in Praça da Figueira every day.

Baixa market is a bit touristy, but it’s still a great place to get familiar with some traditional foods, try some local products, and maybe buy some hand-made crafts. Even the locals go here during the weekend to get some fresh fish or cheese, although it’s not very common to see locals in Baixa Chiado.

TIP: Try to time your visit in such a way that you can have lunch at the market. It is a very local experience.

Good to know: The market is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm.

Statue of Dom Joao I at Praça da Figueira in Lisbon

16. Try Pastéis de Belém & Pastéis de Nata

Pastel de Nata is a traditional Portuguese egg custard pastry that you really have to try when visiting Portugal! And there’s no shortage of bakeries selling these delicacies all over Lisbon!

There is only one difference between Pastels de Nata and Pastels de Belem. The recipe of Pastels de Belem is kept secret and is only known to Fabrica de Pastéis de Belém (aka Antiga Pastelaria de Belem ). They have been baking original Pastéis de Belém since 1837, following an ancient recipe from Jeornimos Monastery, which is located just nearby. If you want to try some of the very best Pastel de Nata in Lisbon, this is the place to be (and the queue outside is worth it)!

Any other custard cream cake you find in Lisbon would be Pastel de Nata, which can have many variations as everyone can make a different version of the recipe. This means that you can find some amazing ones, but also some that are mediocre, to say the least…

Personal tip: In addition to Antiga Pastelaria de Belem , other best places to taste Pastel de Nata are Manteigaria and São Antonio . We indicated all of these places in our map.

Pasteis de Nata from Manteigaria bakery in Lisbon

17. Attend a Fado Performance

Fado is a Portuguese music style with melancholic singing and traditional string instruments. The singer often uses themes like sadness, lost love, or the famous Saudade (Portuguese word to express sadness, the fact of missing something or someone and melancholia). Fado is believed to have originated in the early 19th century and it was the national music during Salazar’s dictatorship.

There are several ways to have a Fado experience in Lisbon: go to a bar or a restaurant with a Fado performance or attend a Fado concert. Going to a restaurant is probably more relaxing, but if you are mostly interested in the music and the singing, there’s a nice ‘Fado in Chiado’ concert as well.

Good to know: There are many restaurants and bars where you can just pop in and listen to a Fado performance in the evenings. Fama d’Alfama is a great choice and they offer delicious food and amazing Fado performances (only between Thursday and Saturday after 8.30 pm).

Or you can also opt for a Fado concert and dinner tour . The best price-quality tour is this Alfama neighborhood & fado tour (this tour goes three times a week) and there is also a very highly-rated tour in the Baixa neighborhood , in one of the most typical Fado houses in Lisbon (this tour goes daily).

TIP: If you are interested in learning more about Fado music and its history, check out Museu do Fado . They have many instruments and costumes on display, and also audio recordings of Fado singers. And they also organize concerts .

READ ALSO: Portugal Bucket List (Fado is one of the not-to-miss experiences!)

Fado restaurant in Alfama Lisbon

18. Time Out Market

Located in a popular dining area Cais do Sodre, Time Out Market is a giant food court, and a very popular place to visit in Lisbon, for locals and tourists alike. There’s a big selection of food stalls where you can find food from all over the world.

Seafood is exceptional at Time Out Market as they have chefs from all around the world and fresh products coming straight from the sea.

They also organize various events and even cooking classes, so if you are looking for a special experience, take a look at their website in advance to see what’s going on. And otherwise, you can just go there for lunch or dinner, and you’ll always find a great meal.

Good to know: Time Out Market is open daily from 10 am to 10.30 pm.

Time Out Market Lisbon

19. Lisbon Oceanarium

Located in Nations Park (Parque das Nações), Lisbon Oceanarium was built for the International exposition in 1998. It is one of the biggest aquariums in the world.

Each aisle of the oceanarium represents an ocean. The five aisles represent 5 different ecosystems: North Atlantic, Antarctic, Temperate Pacific, and Tropical Indian Ocean, and a Global aquarium in the middle. You can see about 500 different species of sea creatures including sharks and the only two existing sea otters in Europe.

This is truly one of the most impressive aquariums you’ll ever see and it’s well worth your time. If you are visiting Portugal with kids and have a few days in Lisbon, it’s really a must!

TIP: Since this is a popular attraction for locals as well as tourists, the queues can get very long as well. So it’s best to get your tickets in advance.

Good to know: Lisbon Oceanarium is open daily the whole year-round. From the city center, it is best accessible by using the red metro line. One of the hop-on-hop-off bus routes also covers this area.

Lisbon Oceanarium building lit at night

20. Nations Park Gondola

If you are looking for something nice to do in Lisbon away from the most popular attractions in the old city center, definitely consider a scenic ride on Telecabine Lisbon , aka Nations Park Gondola . Located in the Parque das Nações district, its south station can be found by the river, just next to Lisbon Oceanarium.

The ride on the gondola takes about 10 minutes one way, and ends at the Vasco de Gama Tower , which is an interesting architectural masterpiece that looks like a giant sail. This is a great way to see the more modern side of Lisbon that most tourists never get to.

Good to know: Gondola runs daily throughout the year, with varying hours depending on the season. You can get tickets and find more info here .

Nations Park Gondola and Vasco de Gama Tower in Lisbon

21. LX Factory

LX Factory is located next to the famous 25th April Bridge in the Alcantara area. It is an old industrial factory refurbished into a building consisting of shops, bars, restaurants, and art galleries . They also host various events on the weekends and in the evenings, such as concerts or art presentations.

This is one of the coolest places to visit in Lisbon! It’s a kind of hipster place with a great atmosphere. Well worth a small detour from the city center!

TIP: There are lots of restaurants and cafés (most with really good food) that offer a very nice view of the Tagus River, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and also the Christ Statue. This is a great place to come for lunch or for dinner!

Colorful statue at LX Factory overlooking the 25th April Bridge in Lisbon

22. Lisbon’s Traditional Funiculars

Being such a hilly city, Lisbon has lots of stairs, elevators, and funiculars to help people travel between different parts of town. In addition to the earlier-mentioned Santa Justa Lift, you may also want to chek out some of Lisbon’s famous traditional funiculars .

Two of the best-known funiculars are Ascensor Glória and Elevador da Bica . We indicated both of them on our map. Riding on these old funiculars is one of the more local things to do in Lisbon and something that most people love to experience. However, you sometimes have to wait longer for the ride than what it takes and it can get very warm inside.

But even if you don’t ride these old funiculars, it’s well worth going to see them. They are very picturesque and you can get some nice pictures of the more traditional side of Lisbon.

Traditional funicular on the narrow streets in Lisbon

23. Cristo Rei Statue

Christ the King statue (Cristo Rei) is located on the other side of the river and you can see some of the best views of Lisbon from here. This statue was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro and was built in the 1950s.

Good to know: The best way to reach the statue from Lisbon city center is to take the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas. Once you arrive at Cacilhas, take bus 101. This journey takes about an hour, bus and ferry combined. If you rather walk, it takes about 40 minutes from Cacilhas and the walk is uphill.

If you are short on time, taking a taxi or an Uber is also a good and affordable option. It takes less than half an hour.

Cristo Rei statue and April 25 Bridge in Lisbon

24. Benfica Stadium & Museum

Soccer fans will need no introduction to SL Benfica, one of the best football teams in Portugal. If you are a football fan, you’ll definitely want to visit Benfica’s stadium (aka Estádio da Luz or Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica ) in Lisbon. But even if you are not familiar with the team and their achievements, it’s a very impressive place that’s really interesting to see.

If you’ve been to the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona or one of the football stadiums in Manchester or Liverpool , this is a similar experience, but even better because you go with a guide who tells you all about this place.

You get to see the impressive modern stadium that can seat 65,000 people, visit the press rooms, locker rooms, and of course, see all the trophies and learn more about the team and its history at the stadium museum.

Good to know: The stadium is a bit outside of the city center, but can be easily reached by metro. You can get tickets here . In principle, you can visit every day, but no visits are allowed on some match days and – for big international matches – also a few days before and a day after the game. Anyway, it’s nothing to worry about because you can see all the available dates when you book your ticket.

Benfica Stadium in Lisbon

25. Avenida da Liberdade

Avenue of Liberty (Avenida da Liberdade) is one of the grandest boulevards in Lisbon, and the most expensive shopping street in Portugal, and in the top-10 of the most expensive streets in Europe. This avenue is about 1.5 km long and links Restauradaures Square and Marques Pombal.

If you want to do some (window) shopping in Lisbon, this is the place to be. You’ll find brands such as Hugo Boss, Gucci, Prada, Chanel, and many more. Even though expensive, it’s likely that you’ll pay less here in Portugal than in most Western European countries. There are also some Portuguese designer shops that are more than worth it.

TIP: After shopping, enjoy a walk at the Parque Eduardo VII (near Marquis of Pombal Square, at the northern end of the Avenue of Liberty). In the summer there are some nice local festivals here.

Avenue of Liberty in Lisbon

26. Enjoy even more great viewpoints of Lisbon

As already mentioned, there are countless amazing viewpoints all over Lisbon. If you are looking for somewhat more local places and want to get a bit off the beaten path, check out Miradouro São Pedro de Alcantara in the Bairro Alto neighborhood and Miradouro de Santa Catarina , which is not too far from the Time Out Market.

Miradouro São Pedro de Alcantara has a nice little park and offers an amazing view over the city, right opposite from most other viewpoints mentioned earlier. From here you can see the castle, Praça do Comércio, and the church of São Vincente de Fora. The best way to get there is by taking the Funiculario de Gloria from Restadaures Square.

Miradouro Santa Catarina is one of the best spots to enjoy the sunset in Lisbon! It’s much closer to the water and offers an incredible view of the Tagus River and the bridge. The area has been recently renovated and is a favorite sunset spot for many locals. In the middle of the square, there is a statue of the famous creature Adamastor, a mythological creature that symbolizes the dangers of the sea, and has been overcome by the Portuguese discoverers. This square is a bit hidden. The best way to get here is to take the Elevador de Bica.

Miradouro Sao Pedro de Alcantara in Lisbon

27. Take a train to Cascais

Cascais is a small coastal town west of Lisbon and one of the nicest places to visit if you want to get out of the city for a while. It’s also the easiest-to-reach beach near Lisbon and can get crowded on weekends.

We recommend taking a train from Lisbon to Cascais. This whole train ride on the Linha de Cascais offers great views of the Lisbon coastline from the bridge to the sea. If you don’t have the time to visit Cascais, you can also just stay on the train up to Alcantara (for LX Factory) or Belem (for Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower).

TIP: If looking for a beach, get off at Carcavelos train station. Carcavelos Beach is one of the best beaches on the coast and also a great place to take surfing lessons. For sightseeing, continue to Cascais where you can walk around the historic town center before heading back to Lisbon.

If you are looking for some off-beat places, local recommendations, and beaches near Lisbon, check this guide to its surroundings, beaches, etc.

Estoril coastline near Cascais Portugal

28. Take a day trip to Sintra

No trip to Lisbon would be complete without visiting one of the must-see places in Portugal, Sintra . This area has so many amazing castles, one more beautiful than the other, and is listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

There are three main castles/palaces that you absolutely have to see: Quinta da Regaleira, the Moorish Castle, and the Pena Palace. But there are many more! Quinta is like a fairytale garden with secret passages and an impressive Initiation Well. The Moorish Castle is more like a fortification with lots of staircases along its walls and jaw-dropping views. And the Pena Palace is like a real-life Disney Castle, with the brightest colors, and most impressive exterior. The gardens are not to be missed too!

Good to know: Sintra is extremely busy on weekends. So if you can, go during the week. Also check if there are any local holidays when everything might be closed. And do not take a car – driving to and in Sintra is crazy and will take you forever and parking is limited.

You can easily get to Sintra from Lisbon by train (Linha de Sintra) from Rossio train station. There are trains every 40 minutes and the tickets are cheap. Once you get to Sintra, there are taxis and tuk-tuks that can bring you to the castles. It’s best to start at the Pena Palace which is on the highest hill and then walk back to the other castles and to town.

TIP: If you want to see a lot in a short time, it’s easiest to visit Sintra with an organized tour. There are many tours, and if you take a longer, day tour to Sintra, you can also visit Cascais and Cabo da Roca at the same time. We recommend this highly-rated tour .

LEARN MORE: Sintra Itinerary & Tips for Your Visit & Best Things to Do in Sintra

Pena Palace in Sintra is must see near Lisbon

Some Practical Tips for Visiting Lisbon

Best time to visit.

The best time to visit Lisbon is in the spring and in the fall. That’s when the weather is mild and perfect for sightseeing, and it’s not too busy. Read also our guide to Portugal in April .

Getting around

The best way to get around Lisbon is by walking . Every main attraction in the city center is accessible on foot and by walking, you discover more of Lisbon. Just keep in mind that the city is quite hilly and so it requires some effort. Wearing comfortable shoes is a must!

For longer distances, the metro is the best solution. The trains to go outside of town, e.g. to Cascais or Sintra are also reliable. In general, it’s not recommended to take buses , they don’t always go where you wish even though it’s written on the bus. Trams can be good for shorter distances.

TIP: All public transport (+Santa Justa elevator + Tram 28) is included with the Lisboa city card .

Taxi and Uber are cheap as well, and we used them in Lisbon all the time. This is also the easiest way to get from the airport to your hotel, but beware that they often (seriously) overcharge tourists. If you want to avoid this, it’s best to pre-book a private airport shuttle in advance.

There are also tuk-tuks that will offer you rides everywhere you go. They can be nice for sightseeing but are quite expensive compared to the other transport options.

If you want to visit many of the main tourist attractions in Lisbon, there are also hop-on-hop-off buses . It’s a good way to see more of the city without walking too much. There are various tickets available, for 1 or 2 days, and also combination tickets with public transport and/or boats. You can see the entire selection here . The earlier-mentioned sightseeing boat between the city center and Belem is also a good – scenic – option!

If you want to see the best of Lisbon in just a couple of hours and are not sure where to start, you can join one of the many guided tours. Even if you just take a short tour with a local guide it will give you a better idea of the city, where everything is, and you can then come back to the places that appealed to you the most and explore deeper. So if you take a tour, do it at the beginning of your visit!

There are walking tours, food tours, street art tours, tuk-tuk tours, bike tours, segway tours , etc. Here are some of the best introductory tours to Lisbon:

  • This is one of the most popular walking tours . It has a very good itinerary covering the ‘musts’ of Lisbon in just 3 hours.
  • This is the most popular tuk-tuk tour.
  • This is the best-rated local food & wine tour .
  • This is the most popular e-bike tour . If you go on a bike tour, an e-bike is really the only way to do it in this hilly city!

Tuk tuks in Lisbon

Where to eat

We already included some recommendations on where to eat in Lisbon in our article. Time Out Market and LX Factory are great areas with lots of good options. But if you are looking for the best Portuguese food, be sure to check out traditional local Portuguese restaurants called Tasca . They mainly serve food for lunch, but also dinner is available.

The best Tascas in Lisbon are usually found in the old neighborhoods and away from the most touristy areas. In Baixa Chiado, there will be a lot of people showing you menus, trying to convince you to go to their expensive restaurants. Say no to those and try one of the Tascas instead.

Tascas may look a bit sketchy, but they really have the best food in Lisbon! The best traditional dishes to try are Secretos de Porco Preto, Bacalhau a Bras, or simply ask for the dish of the day.

Personal recommendation: The most authentic tasca is in the center and it is called Cervejeria Paço Real (it’s open for lunch only). Another good option is O’Farnell (open until late at night).

Portuguese food at a traditional local restaurant in Baixa neighborhood in Lisbon

Where to stay?

We recommend the area close to Rossio Square – Praça da Figueira as one of the best places to stay in Lisbon. It’s very centrally located, has great transport connections, and you can walk to most Lisbon attractions from here as well. There are many nice restaurants, shops, and a local market. We stayed in this area and the location was perfect for everything.

Here are some recommendations for the best hotels in this area for all budgets:

  • €€€€€ Hotel Avenida Palace – a classic luxury hotel.
  • €€€€ Browns Central Hotel – a modern design hotel with great price/quality/location ratio. This is the best-rated 4* hotel in this part of Lisbon.
  • €€€ Rossio Boutique Hotel – an excellent price-quality hotel, one of the top picks in the center of Lisbon.
  • €€ Gat Rossio Hotel – a very popular modern budget hotel in a quiet street.
  • For bigger families: Lisbon Serviced Apartments (lower budget, great location) and Lisbon Finestay Mastro Apartments (more luxury, good location, but further from Rossio Square and all the action).

Hotel Avenida Palace in Lisbon

So, this is our guide to the very best things to do in Lisbon. I hope that you found some great ideas in this article to make your Lisbon city trip more memorable.

TIP: If you are not sure how to plan your trip, take a look at our suggested 1-day Lisbon itinerary . It covers a lot of the must-see places in a day and includes a walking map to help you plan your day. Plus, it has some suggestions for a longer visit as well. Check it out!

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips & Excursions from Lisbon

More travel inspiration & tips for your trip to Portugal:

  • Best Things to Do in Portugal (Bucket List)
  • Best Cities & Towns to Visit in Portugal
  • Best Things to Do in Algarve
  • Algarve Itinerary
  • Best Things to Do in Sintra
  • Sintra Itinerary & Tips for Your Visit
  • Portugal Itinerary: 10 Days from Lisbon to Porto
  • Portugal with Kids
  • Nazaré Fishermen’s Village
  • Best Beaches in Algarve
  • How to Visit Benagil Cave
  • Best Things to Do in Lagos
  • Best Things to Do in Albufeira
  • Seven Hanging Valleys Hike in Algarve
  • What to See & Do in Madeira
  • Best Things to Do in Funchal, Madeira
  • Best Hikes in Madeira
  • What to See & Do in Sao Miguel, Azores

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Best things to do in Lisbon Portugal

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Saturday 16th of March 2024

As always - the best advice to get your head around before a new city trip!! Many thanks.

Monday 18th of March 2024

Glad to help, Carolyn. Have a great time in Lisbon!

Delmary Tinoco

Love your recommendation. We are going to Lisbon at the end of April. Thanks

Have a great trip!

Monday 11th of March 2024

Amazing tips! Thanks so much.

Glad to help, Natasha. Enjoy Lisbon!

Tuesday 20th of February 2024

Great article. How many days do you suggest to stay in Lisbon to cover these (or most of these) places?

Wednesday 21st of February 2024

Hi Nithin, to quickly cover most of the top places, you would need at least 3 days: 2 in the city and one for a quick visit to Sintra/Cascais with a tour. If you go by public transport, you will need a day for Sintra alone. But if you want to explore the main landmarks deeper, you can easily spend 3-4 days just in Lisbon city, plus plan some additional time for a few day trips. So it really depends on your travel style, what you want to see, and also how you plan to get around if traveling outside the city.

Friday 8th of September 2023

Thank for this post, Jurga, it really help me a lot!

Monday 11th of September 2023

Glad to hear that, Niki. Happy travels!

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The 30 best things to do in Lisbon

From pastel de natas to late-night jam sessions, these are the best things to do in the Portuguese capital this year

Welcome to Lisbon, where the views are spectacular and the pastis de nata are sweet. You can do Lisbon in two days if needed, but we’d recommend a long weekend to really soak up all that is great about this incredible city. 

The best part? Lisbon is an incredibly walkable city, so you can hit all of its top things to do without having to spend your whole day on public transport. On our list you’ll find Lisbon’s can’t-miss attractions for your first time there, alongside more niche finds that only locals will know (those are thanks to our editorial team at Time Out Lisbon). Enjoy!

RECOMMENDED: 🏠 The best  Airbnbs in Lisbon   🎭 The best  attractions in Lisbon   🍷 The best  wine tours in Lisbon   🏨 The best  hotels in Lisbon

This guide is by the editorial team at Time Out Lisbon , and Lisbon-based travel writer Lucy Bryson .  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

Time Out Market Lisbon

Time Out Market Lisboa

A massive food hall with every all-star cuisine you can imagine, curated by us. Find  26 of our favourite food picks from the magazine, shoved into a massive food hall (think sushi, sizzling burgers and steaks), along with some cracking live music and DJ sessions.

Top things to do in Lisbon

Get to know the MAAT - Art, Architecture and Technology Museum

1.  Get to know the MAAT - Art, Architecture and Technology Museum

What is it? Looking not unlike a giant ray that deflected off the river, the ultra-modern Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology has been all over Lisboetas’ Instagrams since it opened in 2016.

Why go?  It opened, then it closed, and then it opened again, but what’s certain is that this project by the EDP Foundation is much more than its acronym. MAAT’s architectural lines struck the city at its 2016 launch and now justify regular pilgrimages to the area of Belém. If nothing else, the structure designed by British architect Amanda Levete, combined with a sunset backdrop, makes a killer pic to share on social media. But of course, you shouldn’t stop there: we recommend consulting the agenda for information on permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Don’t miss:  Be sure to take a tour of the Tejo Power Station, one of the permanent exhibitions of this tremendous museum.

Have a feast at the legendary Gambrinus

2.  Have a feast at the legendary Gambrinus

  • Santa Maria Maior
  • price 3 of 4

What is it?  Established more than 80 years ago by a German/ Galician duo, Gambrinus was initially a brewery serving German fare. Thirty years later, new management remodelled the venue into the look it still has today.

Why go? Unwritten rules for eating at Gambrinus bar: 1) always eat a croquette with the house mustard; 2) ask for the Gambrinus tulipa , a very good mixed beer; 3) Do not skip on the toasted almonds; 4) wait patiently for the rye bread toast; 5) Try a  prego  (beef sandwich) or a roast beef sandwich with tartar sauce; 6) watch the preparation of the balloon coffee – and drink it, of course. This is the perfect place for having lunch alone, although with so many employees, you're never really alone.

Don’t miss:  The croquettes? The  prego ? Or will it be the  crêpes suzette ?

Grab a bargain at Feira da Ladra

3.  Grab a bargain at Feira da Ladra

  • Things to do
  • Markets and fairs
  • São Vicente 

What is it? Held from dawn to dusk every Tuesday and Saturday, t his market is an absolute gem in Lisbon. It's been serving up the best bargains around since the 13th century, would you believe, and set up camp at this spot in 1903.

Why go?  This is the perfect flea market to spend the day strolling and admiring. From vintage clothes to second-hand books and general bric-à-brac, you’re sure to nab something that will help you remember your trip forever. 

Don’t miss:  Mornings are the best for comfortable strolling (and bargains). 

Take in the views from the Panorâmico de Monsanto

4.  Take in the views from the Panorâmico de Monsanto

  • Attractions
  • Towers and viewpoints
  • Benfica/Monsanto

What is it? You can catch some of the best views in the city from an abandoned building in Monsanto park. In the past, it was a luxury restaurant, a bingo hall, a nightclub, an office building and a warehouse.

Why go? This architectural UFO designed by Chaves da Costa has been given a new lease of life as a viewpoint, which was always its second calling anyway. Heck, we’ll go so far as to say it has the best views in the whole city. Abandoned in 2001, the building was officially off-limits and received only sporadic visits from intrepid urban explorers, tourists, curious onlookers and people armed with spray paint, who went there to do what people generally do with spray paint. In 2017, it became safe and legal to visit.

Don’t miss:  The 360º view of the city and great location (in Alto da Serafina Recreational Park) make this derelict building the best place to check out the sights in Monsanto.

Sample Portuguese cosmetics at Benamôr

5.  Sample Portuguese cosmetics at Benamôr

What is it?  A Portuguese beauty brand known for its famous face cream, the formula for which has remained unchanged since 1925 (now without parabens).

Why go? The three stores in Lisbon, on Rua dos Bacalhoeiros, Príncipe Real and LX Factory, strictly follow the nearly century-old tradition of what they like to call ‘beauty kitchen’. The stores are among the most Instagrammable spots in the city due to their impeccable arrangement, colours, and packaging of each range of the brand.

Don’t miss:  The Benamôr  family has grown over the years. One of the most popular is the Nata range, inspired by Portuguese pastries and traditional sweets, with egg and cinnamon extract. The line consists of hand cream, body cream, and lip balm.

Buy a book at Livraria Bertrand

6.  Buy a book at Livraria Bertrand

  • 5 out of 5 stars
  • Parque das Nações
  • Recommended

What is it?  Founded in 1732 (it moved to its current location some 50 years later), Bertrand is Portugal's oldest bookshop.

Why go?  While you can find a branch of the bookstore chain in various shopping centers, nothing compares to entering the one in Chiado, considered the oldest bookstore in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records and founded in 1732 (that alone is reason enough to visit). In addition to local literature, it offers a great selection of English novels as well as guides and foreign magazines, those hard to find elsewhere.

Don’t miss: A few years ago, the bookstore added a café room with snacks inspired by the authors featured on the shelves and national wines.

See local art at Underdogs Gallery

7.  See local art at Underdogs Gallery

What is it? A colossal warehouse in Braço de Prata, which serves as a home to some of the most prominent urban artists of today.

Why go? Founded in 2010, this is as much an exhibition space as a venue for artistic residences. It has a sister in Cais do Sodré, an Art Store which opened in 2014, at which you can buy bagels and coffee with your art. 

Don’t miss: The temporary exhibitions. Check its website for details. 

Have a proper tavern lunch at O Eurico

8.  Have a proper tavern lunch at O Eurico

  • Castelo de São Jorge

What is it?   A punk approach to traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Why go? Velho Eurico is no longer the model of the trendy modern tavern in 2010. Here, it’s all about regional recipes without any authorial intrusions. The menu is consistent, but with some occasional changes according to the season and the available produce. Great atmosphere, efficient and knowledgeable service, poor ventilation, short and weak wine list. Everything as one desires in a tavern.

Eat a croquette with a knife and fork at Versailles

9.  Eat a croquette with a knife and fork at Versailles

  • Avenidas Novas

What is it?  With decorated ceilings, art nouveau mirrors and crystal lamps, Versailles is one of the most beautiful bakeries in Lisbon.

Why go?  How many places can serve afternoon tea or late-night hot chocolate surrounded by chandeliers, carved wooden display cases and stained glass? This 1922 gem has a huge selection of cakes, meringues and pastries. From éclairs, custard tarts, and thick hot chocolates to the famous croquettes, everything that comes out of its kitchen is delicious.

Don’t miss:  You can have lunch or dinner here too: the desserts are fantastic.

Spot an Obey Giant mural

10.  Spot an Obey Giant mural

What is it? American artist Shepard Fairey, best known for his project Obey Giant, brought his iconic style to the neighbourhood of Graça.

Why go? On the side of a building on Rua Natália Correia, Obey Giant painted a woman wearing a revolutionary beret and holding a rifle with a carnation in its muzzle. Giant is best known for the ‘Hope’ poster he used in Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign.

Dont’ miss: In the same area, he collaborated with Vhils (Portuguese artist Alexandre Farto) to create a mural representing a woman’s face, on Rua da Senhora da Glória, Graça.

Spend the day (and night) at Casa Independente

11.  Spend the day (and night) at Casa Independente

What is it?  Casa Independente opened in 2012, just as the city centre square, Largo do Intendente, was becoming a destination of choice for a night out on the town.

Why go?  In a decaying mansion that has housed all manner of clubs and associations over the past century, this is the liveliest incarnation. The large front Tiger Room hosts gigs and DJ sets, there are various small rooms that are good for a chat or a spot of work on your tablet, and the café and back patio are great places to relax.

Don’t miss:  The bar serves a good range of teas, fresh juices and cocktails, while finger food is served until midnight.

Thank Cod at Zé da Mouraria

12.  Thank Cod at Zé da Mouraria

  • Martim Moniz

What is it?  A restaurant famous for its roasted cod.

Why go?  There is actually no Zé at Zé da Mouraria. There is a Virgílio, not from Mouraria but from the Minho region. He opened the neighbourhood's most popular restaurant 20 years ago, where once a Galician fellow had a grill named Zé dos Grelhados. Now that you know about the name, let us tell you about their internationally renowned roast cod, whose secret is to use thick slices with no bones while adding good quality chickpeas, olive oil and roast potatoes. 

Don’t miss:  The roasted cod, obviously.

Shop in style at Embaixada

13.  Shop in style at Embaixada

  • Princípe Real

What is it?  Embaixada Lisboa is a concept store in the Palacete Ribeiro da Cunha, with awe-inspiring nineteenth-century neo- Arab design, at Príncipe Real.

Why go?  Design, fashion, and temporary exhibitions all feature. Housed in an eighteenth-century mansion, you’ll find a bunch of unique Portuguese and foreign stores all under the same roof (sometimes decked out with flowers) and a  revered steak house that also serves vegan burgers.

Don’t miss:  Gin fan? Check out the Gin Lovers Bar and Restaurant. 

Join the line for an incredible dinner at Taberna da Rua das Flores

14.  Join the line for an incredible dinner at Taberna da Rua das Flores

  • Chiado/Cais do Sodré

What is it?  By day, Taberna da Rua das Flores is a simple tavern serving traditional dishes. But by night, it is a chef’s laboratory, mixing influences from around the world.

Why go? To run a restaurant where the menu changes daily, you need creativity. Chef André Magalhães has it in spades, and knows a lot about forgotten or hard-to-source Portuguese ingredients. Even locals are confused by some sections of the menu, but fear not – the staff is on hand to help.

Don’t miss: Put your name on the door when you arrive (no advance reservations, and it fills up fast) and sip a drink as you stand in line.

Open a traditional Portuguese can at Conserveira de Lisboa

15.  Open a traditional Portuguese can at Conserveira de Lisboa

What is it?  This small, wood-panelled space opened in 1930 and is lined with a dazzling array of colourfully packaged tins - sardines, tuna, anchovies, fish paste and the like.

Why go?  If you like fish, you’ll be spoiled for choice at the charming Conserveira de Lisboa, which has resided here for over 90 years. The wooden shelves lined with colourful cans invite you to purchase from the exclusive house brands, Tricana, Prata do Mar and Minor.

Don’t miss:  The store now stocks a range of gourmet jams and liqueurs for tourists.

Stroll around LX Factory

16.  Stroll around LX Factory

What is it?  Markets, exhibitions, shops, cafes, concerts, and parties. There is a whole world to discover in this cosmopolitan ‘factory’ that has completely altered the landscape of Alcantara since its opening.

Why go?  Essential things to do on your retail therapy excursion include a trip to renovated industrial complex LX factory, a shopping city within the city. This uber-trendy venue hosts an eclectic selection of places to eat, drink, dance and spend some serious Euros. Here you can cut your hair, get a tattoo, browse for art, or sip a rooftop caipirinha.

Don’t miss:  The weekly market on Sundays.

Try the best burgers in Lisbon at Ground Burger

17.  Try the best burgers in Lisbon at Ground Burger

  • São Sebastião

What is it? Let there be know doubt: Ground Burger has the best burgers in Lisbon. Doubting is Descartes' job - all we care about is the 150g of Black Angus meat carefully placed  between slices of homemade bread and served with fries.

Why go? These. Are. The. Best. Burgers. In. Lisbon. Let that sink in, because there’s pure culinary magic happening in the Ground Burger lab. A huge slab of 100 percent Black Angus beef served on a super-fresh brioche bun, with crunchy onion rings or rosemary-seasoned french fries for dipping in mustard.

Don’t miss: The titular Ground Burger is the best of a superb selection (including a vegan option).

Dance until dawn at Lux

18.  Dance until dawn at Lux

What is it?  Lisbon's best club, with two dance floors (one loungey, one sweaty) and a roof terrace overlooking the river.

Why go?  There are loads of clubs in Lisbon, but none compares to Lux Frágil. The décor is on point, and the music is second to none, courtesy of the resident DJs and top international guests who swing by each week. As the hip furniture indicates, it is a see-and-be-seen place, but the crowd is friendly, and the measures Lisbon-large. House and guest DJs offer everything from electro and hip-hop to bursts of '80s music. Thursdays are popular with locals keen on leftfield names; on Saturdays, the place is mobbed by out-of-towners. Lux's programme - which includes live bands, the odd Sunday afternoon event and big international DJs - and its catch-all social role remain unrivalled. Exude photogenic importance at the door if you arrive after 2am.

Don’t miss:  The sunrise on the balcony.

Learn about the History of Art at Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

19.  Learn about the History of Art at Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

What is it?  One of Europe's leading fine arts museums, with exhibits dating from 2000 BC to the early 20th century.

Why go?  Save time for the final room and its breathtaking glass and metal art nouveau jewellery by René Lalique. Audio guides are available in multiple languages to help you get the most from the experience. There are also excellent temporary exhibitions, with pieces lent by institutions around the world. Downstairs is an art library (which often hosts midday classical recitals on Sundays), an excellent café and a small gift shop.

Don’t miss: Taking a stroll around the tranquil, bird-filled gardens (they are free to visit).

Be part of a jam session at Tejo Bar

20.  Be part of a jam session at Tejo Bar

What is it? Informal and refreshingly under-the-radar, Tejo Bar is a tiny live music venue whose shelves are a handful of tables loaded with books and board games.

Why go? Talented music lovers turn up to strum the house guitars (but don’t clap: patrons instead rub their hands together to show their appreciation, minimising noise). The bar has many regulars – who help themselves to drinks, noting down what they’ve taken – but it’s also a magnet for students and even established musicians.

Don’t miss: Tejo hates to turf people out, so the place sometimes closes after 5am.

Try one of the best cocktails in town at Red Frog

21.  Try one of the best cocktails in town at Red Frog

  • Late-night bars
  • Avenida da Liberdade

What is it?  This place, inspired by Prohibition-era bars in the US, has clandestine air, not least because it is in the basement. You must ring the bell to be let in.

Why go?  Head up Rua do Salitre, and stop when you see a red frog at the door. Ring the bell, descend the staircase, and you’ll find a space that recreates the atmosphere of bars in the US Prohibition era. The drinks list was drawn up by an expert and has lots of creative, well-mixed cocktails.

Don’t miss:  It is impossible to recommend one because the list is constantly changing. The best thing is to leave it to the barman’s imagination.

Discover the best indie night at MusicBox

22.  Discover the best indie night at MusicBox

  • Cais do Sodré

What is it?  MusicBox is one of Lisbon's most exciting venues, with a regular programme of rock bands, electronic live acts, singer-songwriters and DJ sets (all night on Fridays).

Why go?  The managers of this key club in Cais do Sodré have music industry connections and exploit them creditably. Note that some shows may start as late as 2am; for details, check the website, which is comprehensive. The space has an underground feel and look and is located in what was once one of Lisbon's seediest streets (and is now one of its buzziest at night).

Don’t miss:  You’re in the nightlife district, so enjoy the rhythm of the night.

Try a new take on the traditional Lisbon tavern at Ofício Tasco Atípico

23.  Try a new take on the traditional Lisbon tavern at Ofício Tasco Atípico

What is it? A former Chiado steakhouse reinvented as a cool, contemporary take on the traditional Portuguese tasca. 

Why go? The perfect happy medium between Lisbon’s no-frills traditional tascas (cheap and cheerful family-run restaurants) and the city’s celebrated fine dining scene, Ofício sets out its stall as an ‘atypical’ tavern, serving high-quality wines and elegantly presented small plates designed for sharing. The excellent price-to-quality ratio has not gone unnoticed by Michelin, who awarded Ofício a ‘Bib Gourmand’ award in 2022, marking it out as one of the best places to eat in the city without blowing the budget sky high. 

Don’t miss: Where to start? Chef Hugo Candeias has crafted a delicious menu of  petiscos (tapas-style small plates), many of which feature super-fresh fish and seafood, and which jostle for stomach space with an appealing array of Portuguese cheeses and cured meats. Leave space for the famous, and quite unique, sweet cheese tart for dessert.

Dive into the world of art at Immersivus Gallery

24.  Dive into the world of art at Immersivus Gallery

What is it? An immersive art gallery installed inside an underground reservoir complex.

Why go? An art experience unlike any other, Immersivus Gallery shook up Lisbon’s cultural scene when it opened in 2022 inside Reservatório da Mãe d'Água das Amoreiras  –  a cavernous underground reservoir. A grand space for visiting exhibitions, Immersivus Gallery uses high-tech projections and holograms to bring to life iconic works from the likes of Frida Kahlo and Claude Monet.

Don’t miss: Immersivus Gallery is as much about the space as the exhibits. The temple-like Mãe D'Água (literally, ‘Mother of Water’) Reservoir is an incredibly ornate 18th-century network of chambers and water features that marks the starting point of Lisbon’s grand Aqueduto das Águas Livres – the enormous aqueduct that once brought drinking water to the city.

Have a crazy meal at one-Michelin-starred, Loco

25.  Have a crazy meal at one-Michelin-starred, Loco

  • Estrela/Lapa/Santos

What is it?  Loco is an haute cuisine restaurant headed by one of the most creative minds in the city, chef Alexandre Silva. Go with an open disposition for tasting dishes outside your comfort zone and embrace this magnificence of avant-garde Portuguese cuisine. And book ahead.

Why go?  Six Time Out stars for the late Bocca, five stars (only because we don't give out six anymore) for Loco and now a Michelin star. Alexandre Silva earned them all. Silva is one of Lisbon's most creative minds, despite his calm and sober demeanour. A bit like his restaurant – haute cuisine where the staff greets patrons wearing trainers. The mood is relaxed, but the food is very delicate, and great effort went into it. This is a place where you should go a bit wild (and be ready to spend some money) and where you will be treated as a unique guest.

Don’t miss:  Drinks go beyond the traditional fine dining list: there are liqueurs and fermented juices.

Sip a saucy cocktail at Pensão Amor

26.  Sip a saucy cocktail at Pensão Amor

What is it? An archly sexy space for late-night cocktails. 

Why go? It’s no secret that Lisbon’s downtown party district of Cais do Sodré was formerly a red light district, and the much-loved Pensão Amor (itself housed in a former brothel) celebrates this with a decadent interior design, racy bookstore, and regular burlesque shows. The cocktails and DJ sets are the stuff of local legend, and when the space reopened in 2022 after two years of post-pandemic closure, its bohemian clientele breathed a collective sigh of relief.

Don’t miss: The cocktails. Escape the late-night crush of  ‘Pink Street’ - Lisbon’s liveliest nightlife strip - and make your way up to the lush cocktail lounge for a Moscow Mule or the signature Mojito.

Visit Fernando Pessoa's favourite coffee shop in Lisbon: Martinho da Arcada

27.  Visit Fernando Pessoa's favourite coffee shop in Lisbon: Martinho da Arcada

What is it?  This establishment on Lisbon’s grandest square  began life in 1782 as a shop selling drinks and ice.

Why go?  At Martinho da Arcada (Lisbon's oldest restaurant), they believe in ghosts. Or in symbolic gestures. It is in all the tourist guides as one of Fernando Pessoa’s favourite places, and local mythology says that Martinho da Arcada has a place constantly booked, waiting for the poet.

Don’t miss:  Let’s get right to it; in the coffee house, quick meals are served at attractive prices. Pick up a copy of  The Book of Disquiet  and get yourself here. 

Scream for a Santini ice cream

28.  Scream for a Santini ice cream

  • Ice-cream parlours

What is it?  Artisanal ice creams made the Italian way. With more than 60 years behind them in the Greater Lisbon area, Santini shows us that no matter how many other ice creams try to compete, these guys always nab the top spot.

Why go?  The original ice cream parlour in Cascais, opened in 1949 by Italian ex-pat Attilio Santini, was patronised by local high society, including the Spanish royal family in exile. At this Lisbon outlet, the wonderful all-natural ice creams and sorbets are just as popular. They deliver too.

Don’t miss:  The fruit and nut flavour – and dare to try the seasonal specials.

Get lost in Monsanto Park

29.  Get lost in Monsanto Park

What is it?  A public park three times the size of New York’s Central Park. Not that we’re bragging.

Why go?   Walking, running, riding a bike or skating, enjoying a picnic date, taking the kids to the playground, or sipping an alfresco drink at a kiosk are some of the suggestions we have to pass the time in this green space that’s so big that you lose sight of where it begins and where it ends.

Don’t miss:  Start at Alameda Keil do Amaral, visit Mata de Benfica and get to know Moinho do Penedo.

Take home a Portuguese tile from Cortiço & Netos

30.  Take home a Portuguese tile from Cortiço & Netos

What is it?  For over 30 years, Joaquim José Cortiço dedicated his life to collecting and studying industrial Portuguese tiles, which belonged to factories that went out of business. Today, his grandchildren continue to give life to his project with Cortiço & Netos, where you can find several ceramic tiles that tell its history from the '60s onwards.

Why go?  Unlike other azulejo shops listed in this guide, this place stocks mostly mass-produced tiles. But with hundreds of discontinued lines, it is a veritable museum of style through the decades and a great place to pick up one-off decorative bargains. For years, the owner snapped up stock from factories as they closed; his grandchildren (the Netos of the name) are busy selling it.

Don’t miss:  Buy one now while you can!

More great things to do in Lisbon

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7 of the best things to do in Lisbon

Nov 26, 2023 • 6 min read

best tourist place in lisbon

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

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

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

1. Visit Belém and its UNESCO-listed monastery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Tour the city's best art museums

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

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

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

A woman sings while a man plays guitar

4. Don't miss a live fado performance

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

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

5. Taste fresh seafood dishes

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

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

A yellow tram travels down an empty street

6. Ride the historic tram 28E

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

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

Wooden beach huts dot a golden sandy beach

7. Cycle to the coast

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

This article was first published March 2020 and updated November 2023

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The Crazy Tourist

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

25 Best Things to Do in Lisbon (Portugal)

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

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

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

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

1. Wonder at the Torre de Belém

Torre de Belém

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

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

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

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

2. Ride Tram 28

Tram 28

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

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

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

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

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

3. Get lost in the Alfama District

Alfama District

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

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

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

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

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

Available tour : Alfama District 2.5-Hour Walking Tour

4. Make a trip to Sintra

sintra

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

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

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

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

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

5. Enjoy the azulejos in the National Tile Museum

National Tile Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

Included in the Lisbon Card

6. Conquer the bulwarks of St George’s Castle

St George's Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Trace glorious history in the Monastery of Jerónimos

Monastery of Jerónimos

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

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

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

Book online : Jerónimos Monastery Entrance Ticket

8. Go underwater in the Lisbon Oceanarium

Lisbon Oceanarium

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

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

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

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

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

Ticket available online : Oceanário de Lisboa Entrance Ticket

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

National Museum of Ancient Art

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

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

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

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

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

Museu do Oriente

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

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

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

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

11. Hop aboard the Funiculars

Funicular in Lisbon

Like Rome, Lisbon was built on seven hills.

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

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

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

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

12. Enjoy the Mercado da Ribeira

Mercado da Ribeira

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

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

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

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

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

13. People watch on the Rossio

Rossio

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Enjoy the modern Berardo Collection Museum

Berardo Collection Museum

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

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

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

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

15. Eat and drink in the Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto

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

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

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

16. Ride the waves at Caxias

Caxias

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

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

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

17. Find your inner explorer at the Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

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

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

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

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

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

Lisboa Story Centre

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Palácio dos Marqueses da Fronteira

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

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

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

20. Wallow in the natural beauty of Tróia

Tróia Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

21. Go beach hopping on the Costa da Caparica

Costa da Caparica

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

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

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

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

22. Enjoy the seafood and sun in Cascais

Cascais

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

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

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

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

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

23. Haggle at the Feira da Ladra

Feira da Ladra

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

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

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

24. Marvel at the Aqueduto das Águas Livres

Aqueduto das Águas Livres

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

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

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

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

25. Discover the Basílica da Estrela

Basílica da Estrela

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

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

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

25 Best Things to Do in Lisbon (Portugal):

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

10 BEST Places to Visit in Lisbon • Must-See in 2024!

Portugal’s capital city of Lisbon sits at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The city boasts a rich culture and laid-back vibe.

It spreads across a number of hills, and each part of the city offers a wealth of new and interesting experiences. With warm summers and mild winters, you can have a pleasant trip to Lisbon all year round.

Despite being the capital, Lisbon is often overshadowed by other Portuguese destinations. Many travellers seek out the beaches and coastal landscapes of the Algarve and islands like Madeira. Until fairly recently, Lisbon was considered by many as merely a transit point.

Lisbon is, however, starting to come into its own as a terrific place for a city break. It’s well worth planning a trip before it truly booms —it’s always nice to explore away from the crowds! I’ve compiled this list of the best places to visit in Lisbon to entice you to add the charming capital to your travel bucket list.

Be warned: some of these best places to visit in Lisbon are sure to amaze you!

best tourist place in lisbon

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Lisbon:

Top 10 places to visit in lisbon, faqs on the best places to visit in lisbon, final word on the coolest places to visit in lisbon.

Bairro Alto, Lisbon

Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto is the centre for nightlife in the capital. Here you’ll find streets packed with everything from small bars and cosy cafes to upmarket restaurants and rooftop terraces.

  • Sip cocktails and enjoy the view at Park Bar.
  • Indulge at Belcanto, a two Michelin star restaurant.
  • Dance the night away at Incognito.

And now onto the good stuff… Here are the best places to visit in Lisbon.

You’re keyed up and ready to tuck into those Pastel de Natas. I know, they are one of the best things about visiting Portugal .

Although that’s not one of the most unusual things to do in Lisbon. That’s what you really want to hear about, isn’t it? Well, that’s what I’ve done for you…

best tourist place in lisbon

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#1 – Alfama – One of the most amazing places in Lisbon!

Alfama

  • Historic neighbourhood
  • Regeneration projects
  • Home of fado
  • Major Lisbon landmarks

Why it’s awesome: Alfama is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Lisbon. Rich in history and culture, it’s also one of the most popular hotspots for tourists to explore in Lisbon . Charming cobblestone streets lined with quaint homes built many years ago wind up the hill. The area boasts several key city attractions and it’s easy to spend a whole day roaming around and taking in the sights and vibe.

Initially thought of as an area for underprivileged people, it has transformed into a hip and trendy area with lots of olde-worlde character. Alfama is also the home of Fado music, a soulful type of music that often stirs up a sense of nostalgia and wistfulness.

What to do there: Stroll the narrow winding streets and soak up the area’s charming ambience. You have to start here while you’re staying in Lisbon . Visit major architectural treasures like the National Pantheon, the Romanesque Se Cathedral, and Saint Anthony’s Church, and travel back in time at the impressive Castelo de São Jorge. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Lisbon, the castle has imposing walls and looming towers that offer sweeping views, a museum, and archaeological finds.

Give your legs a rest from walking with a ride on the tram. Learn more about the roots of fado at the Fado Museum and experience a haunting performance at a fado dinner restaurant. The offbeat National Tile Museum is a fabulous place for lovers of functional art, and you can also visit the ornate Madre de Deus Church. Discover cute squares, awesome viewpoints, lovely cafes, and a wealth of small unusual shops. Some of Lisbon’s best hostels can be found in Alfama too!

#2 – Igreja-Museu São Roque – One of the most underrated places to see in Lisbon

Igreja-Museu Sao Roque

  • Stunning interiors
  • Religious art from around the world
  • Spiritual air
  • Historic features

Why it’s awesome: It would be easy to walk past Igreja-Museu São Roque without giving a second glance. The exterior of the 16th-century Renaissance church-turned-museum is fairly plain in appearance. The inside, however, is one of the most opulent places in Lisbon! Some of the interior details were made in Rome in the 1740s and sent to Lisbon to embellish the religious building.

In one of the stunning chapels, visitors will find some of the oldest decorative and colourful tiles in all of Lisbon. There’s also a feature that was made in Goa in the 1680s. As well as precious metals and jewels, the church also contains a number of fine pieces of art and religious artefacts.

What to do there: Be dazzled by artistic gleaming beauty when you step into the magnificent Igreja-Museu São Roque and explore the various small chapels around its edges. The Capela de São João Baptista, largely created in Rome, showcases a stunning mosaic called The Baptism of Christ. It has gold, silver, marble, amethyst, and lapis Lazuli details.

Enter the São Roque Shrine to admire painted panels from the 16th century that depict the saint’s life, and see the glorious frescoes and tiles in Capela de São Roque. Visit the museum to see religious artworks and treasures and marvel at the woodwork, tiles, and marble found throughout the spectacular church.

#3 – Jardim do Torel – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Lisbon

Jardim do Torel

  • Pretty park
  • Lovely views
  • Children’s play area

Why it’s awesome: A somewhat off-the-beaten-track and hidden outdoor gem in Lisbon. Jardim do Torel is a peaceful park with a romantic air great for relaxing in after a night of partying in Bairro Alto. It’s the perfect spot to find a great Airbnb in Lisbon . Perched atop one of Lisbon’s hills, the park offers lovely views across the city. As well as open spaces with lots of flowers and trees the park has a children’s play area, a beautiful mansion, and a cafe. It’s a great place to unwind away from the crowds when visiting Lisbon’s more popular attractions.

What to do there: Walk to Jardim do Torel from Liberdade and take in the lovely homes and street art along the streets. Alternatively, give your legs a break and ride the Ascensor do Lavra funicular. Take a seat on one of the benches and bask in the peaceful ambience as you listen to the chatter and singing of birds. Let kids cut loose in the play area and admire the scenic views of the harbour, river, and various city areas. Look out for various landmarks in Lisbon spread out beneath you. Feeling peckish? Call into the quaint café for lunch before leaving.

#4 – Belém – An awesome place to visit in Lisbon for half a day!

Belém

  • Many interesting buildings
  • Popular tourist destination
  • Outdoor spaces
  • Culinary treats

Why it’s awesome: One of the most popular neighbourhoods in Lisbon, Belém boasts a number of famous landmarks and architectural treasures. Once a bustling port, Belém sits alongside the Tagus River. Boat rides are a great way to see the area from a different perspective. There are plenty of green spaces, such as parks and tree-lined plazas, to enjoy. With romantic spots, art, culture, history, and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in Belém. Furthermore, the area is where explorers set sail to visit new lands and where the delicious Pasteis de Nata were born.

What to do there: Explore the iconic UNESCO-listed Torre de Belém, built in the early 1500s as a defensive fort and filled with sublime details. Go to the top of the Padrão dos Descobrimentos for terrific views and stroll along the nearby waterfront to see statues of historical figures.

Visit the official presidential home of Belém Palace, a beautiful 16th-century building. Learn tons of interesting new things at the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, and admire art at the free-to-enter Berardo Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Lisbon isn’t always expensive . Take a romantic stroll through the pretty botanical garden. The Jerónimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Lisbon must-do. It was established to celebrate Vasco de Gama’s journey to India in the late 1400s and the famous explorer’s remains are contained there still. This was also where the delectable Pasteis de Nata were created by the monks.

best tourist place in lisbon

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#5 – Carcavelos Beach – A perfect place to visit in Lisbon if you are on a budget!

Carcavelos Beach, Lisbon

  • Relaxation opportunities
  • Seaside activities
  • Surfing hotspot
  • Laid-back bars and cafes

Why it’s awesome: One of the closest sandy beaches to the heart of the city, Carcavelos Beach is a great place to enjoy a budget day trip in Lisbon at the seaside. There are good facilities for visitors and the vibe is energetic. Whether you want to chill or join in with diverse activities, the beach has something for everyone. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the beach attracts couples, families, and groups of sun-seeking friends.

What to do there: Relax on the soft golden sands and top up your tan as you laze in the sunshine, or take a dip in the cool and refreshing water. The waves make for great surfing too. Join in with a spirited game of beach volleyball, toss a Frisbee, build a sandcastle, play beach football, and stroll barefoot along the stretching sands. You can also unwind in one of the ocean-facing cafes and bars to soak up the vistas while enjoying refreshments in the shade.

#6 – Núcleo Arqueológico – One of the more unique places to visit in Lisbon!

flickr-lisbon-archaeo-site

  • Archaeological excavation site
  • Hidden underground
  • Unusual attraction
  • Travel back in time

Why it’s awesome: Located downtown, visiting Núcleo Arqueológico is one of the most unusual things to do in Lisbon. The cool archaeological museum was constructed around the discovered remains of homes from the Iron Age, Moorish buildings, and structures from the Roman era. Various ancient artefacts were unearthed during excavations, reflecting different time periods and groups of people that once called the area home. Free tours are available on the interesting site. What makes the museum particularly interesting is the fact that it lies hidden beneath the Millennium BCP bank.

What to do there: See a collection of eye-catching paintings by 20th-century artists while waiting for your free one-hour underground tour to begin. Descend into the chambers and passageways underneath the bank to travel back in time through Lisbon’s long and varied history. Peer through glass floors to see remains from different eras, including a Christian burial chamber from the 5th century and Roman mosaics, and see a range of items uncovered at the site.

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#7 – Cemitério dos Prazeres – A nice quiet place to see in Lisbon

Cemiterio dos Prazeres

  • Serene ambience
  • Striking monuments
  • Awesome vistas

Why it’s awesome: Something of a hidden gem, the peaceful Cemitério dos Prazeres is well worth adding to your Lisbon itinerary . It’s the biggest cemetery in the city, founded in the 1830s following a devastating outbreak of cholera. As well as cholera victims, the burial ground is also the final resting place for a number of famous local people, including politicians, authors, and artists. There are many interesting graves and tombs and the attractive cemetery also offers terrific views away from the masses.

What to do there: Wander around the tranquil cemetery and admire the ornate and elegant funerary architecture. There are grand mausoleums to honour the dead, many built in a Baroque style. The cemetery is a great place for photography fans too, so make sure you bring a good travel camera with you. Soak up the excellent views that include the 25 de Abril Bridge and the Tagus River.

#8 – Time Out Market – A must-see for foodies!

Time Out Market, Lisbon

  • Variety of food stalls
  • Good price range
  • Typical Portuguese fare
  • Popular place to eat

Why it’s awesome: Time Out Market can be found in the renovated Marcado da Ribeira market hall. There are some 30 stalls selling a tempting assortment of foods, and the prices range so as to suit all budgets. Open every day, the market is easy to reach, thanks to its location right across from Cais do Sodre train station.

What to do there: Let your senses guide you from stall to stall as your nostrils inhale the tempting aromas, your eyes soak up the lip-smacking sights, and your taste buds start to tingle. Grab a selection of items for a picnic, sit down for a larger meal, and buy a range of mouth-watering snacks to enjoy throughout the day.

Whether you’re looking for traditional Portuguese fare, quick and easy fast food, international dishes, sweet treats, or something else, the market is sure to satisfy most cravings. It’s definitely among the great food experiences in Lisbon!

best tourist place in lisbon

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#9 – Hospital de Bonecas – Quite the quirky place in Lisbon!

Hospital de Bonecas

  • Off the beaten track
  • Nostalgic atmosphere
  • Purchase doll accessories

Why it’s awesome: The Hospital de Bonecas is one of the most unusual things to do in Lisbon. Tucked away along Praça da Figueira and well and truly away from the typical tourist trail, it’s a combination of a repair shop for dolls, shop, and whimsical museum. People have been taking their precious dolls here to be lovingly repaired since the 1830s. It all grew from an elderly lady who used to sit outside a herb shop sewing clothes for dolls, later branching out into repairs to pacify upset children.

What to do there: Peek inside the Hospital de Bonecas ( Doll Hospital ) and absorb the sense of history as you view dolls and antique toys from through the ages in the museum. You’ll see everything from plush stuffed animals and old toy cars to fine porcelain dolls and games from yesteryear. If you have a treasured doll yourself that needs fixing, this is a great place to visit! Pick up quaint miniature furnishings for dolls houses and a wide selection of gorgeous tiny outfits and accessories.

#10 – Take a Ride on the Santa Justa Lift

best tourist place in lisbon

  • Great Views
  • Vintage Landmark
  • Great way to visit two areas of the city
  • Inexpensive

Why it’s awesome: The Santa Justa Lift is an elevator in Lisbon and is the fastest way and most exciting way to get from the Baixa neighbourhood to the Bairro Alto district, two places you should explore whilst you’re riding this vintage elevator! Opened on 10 July 1902, it was intended as a way for the people of the city to easily move between these districts in this hilly city. It was a huge hit and on the first day, over 3000 people used the lift! Today, it’s a landmark of the city!

What to do there: Taking the lift isn’t just like any old boring trip to your apartment! This one is all about the experience, you know what they say, enjoy the journey and not just the destination! Take a ride on this neo-gothic cast iron icon of the city designed as a tribute to Gustave Eiffel. Once you’re at the top, take time to enjoy the view over the city before exploring the beautiful Bairro Alto district.

Get insured for your trip to Lisbon!

Sometimes, things just don’t go to plan. When that happens, travel insurance is your saving grace. Then you can carry on visiting all those great places in Lisbon without a care in the world.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Lisbon

What are some unusual things to do in Lisbon?

I mean, a doll hospital is pretty weird. The Núcleo Arqueológico is an unusual place to visit too – it’s an archaeological museum constructed around ancient ruins found in the city.

What are some great places to visit in Lisbon for free?

The beach! Spend the day chilling at Carcavelos Beach. It’s the closest seaside location to the city and a great place to save a few pennies.

What are some awesome places to visit in Lisbon with family?

Head to the peaceful Jardim do Torel park. It’s away from the crowds and offers not only great views over the city but a super fun kids play area too.

What are some fun places to visit in Lisbon?

Alfama is my top recommendation. You can’t beat the historic centre of the city for a fun day taking in the main site of the city including the Gothic Elevador de Santa Justa.

So, there we have it! The best things to do in Lisbon! Prepare yourself for an epic time exploring all these and discovering even more.

Don’t forget to save some time to just follow your feet and let this beautiful city guide you. Be sure to stay in a good place to soak it all in too. Get off the beaten path and create your own destiny.

Take day trips from Lisbon to places like the pretty Praia da Figueirinha , the wine regions of Cheleiros and Bucelas . Sail through stunning Sintra , religiously significant Fatimá , the medieval gem of Óbidos , historic Tomar , and the stunning Arrábida National Park .

Check out Bairro Alto at night time, with its many excellent restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. I could go on forever.

There truly are many awesome places to visit in Lisbon! Go and find out for yourself.

best tourist place in lisbon

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

Mathilde Magnier

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best tourist place in lisbon

I recently applied for a Portugal Visa from UK. Although our plan was to visit tourist attractions across, your blog has nudged us to take stock of the current pandemic situation and visit only those places that are safe. Since we won’t be staying there for long your informative guide might just help us to experience Portugal in a short span of time. Apart from tourist attractions, I & my wife would love to try out local delicacies as we are hard-core foodies.

Along with these things one more place to visit is 140,000 square metres, Centro Cultural de Belém which is one of the most impressive buildings in Lisbon. Best place for the family with kids.

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30 Things to Do in Lisbon (Portugal) – Best Places to Visit in Lisbon

Home | Travel | Europe | Portugal | Lisbon | 30 Things to Do in Lisbon (Portugal) – Best Places to Visit in Lisbon

Deciding what to see in Lisbon, Portugal can be difficult if you don’t have much time. But don’t worry. I have visited Lisbon on 3 occasions (the longest one was for 7 days) and I know what you shouldn’t miss. Specifically, in this article, I’ll show you the 30 best places to visit in Lisbon , the capital city of Portugal.

There are indeed many things to do in Lisbon , the most important city in the country and a perfect place to escape for 3 or 4 days. It stands out for its excellent location, at the mouth of the Tagus River, and it’s a very cheap and accessible destination.

As a matter of fact, it’s in the same time zone as London, and you can find low-cost flights to Lisbon from any country in Europe and the east coast of the USA.

Before telling you what are the best Lisbon attractions, I recommend you take a look at the Lisbon Card . If you plan to visit several of the paid tourist attractions, I assure you that you will save a lot of money by using this card.

Now, let’s get into the 30 best things to do in Lisbon (Portugal).

1. Belém Tower, the best attraction to visit in Lisbon

The Belém Tower is located in the neighborhood of the same name, right at the mouth of the Tagus River. It is a must-see tourist attraction in Lisbon, as it has become one of the symbols of the city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Since its construction, in the 16th century, it has become one of the most recognized places of tourist interest in Lisbon . It was built as a fortress to protect the entrance to the port during the reign of Manuel I. The monument was built in the Manueline style.

Belém Tower, one of the best attractions to visit in Lisbon

Look out for a rhino figure in the tower. King Manuel I ordered a sculpture be made of this curious animal for the monument in honor of the first rhino that stepped on the country’s soil and revolutionized all of Europe. It was, without a doubt, one of the monarch’s most beloved animals, although it met a tragic end.

To visit the inside of the tower, you need to buy a ticket, which is included in the Lisboa Card or can also be booked independently .

2. Jerónimos Monastery, the most popular place in Lisbon

The Jeronimos Monastery is another must-see in Lisbon. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO , and is one of the most important spots in Lisbon sightseeing.

Jerónimos Monastery, something you can't miss in Lisbon

2. Jerónimos Monastery, the most popular place in Lisbon – Xavier Chaume

Manueline is the building’s predominant style. It was built to celebrate the return of Vasco da Gama from India and is where his remains rest. It was completed in the 16th century, although the western wing and the bell tower date back to the 19th century.

To visit it, it is necessary to buy a ticket. It is also included in the Lisboa Card , although it can be purchased independently here.

3. São Jorge Castle, one of the best places to go in Lisbon

Visiting São Jorge Castle is one of the best things to do in Lisbon . The castle area is quite large, so visiting it can take around half a day.

It was fortified by Romans, Visigoths, and Arabs, and during the reign of Alfonso Enriquez, underwent modifications. To access it, you will have to go through the Arch of St. George and, once inside, you can visit its towers, the camera obscura, the small Santa Cruz neighborhood, the walls, and gardens. If you are passionate about history, visiting and wandering around this fortress is great stuff to do in Lisbon. To access the interior, you need to buy a ticket, which you can buy here to avoid queues .

São Jorge Castle, a famous place to go in Lisbon, Portugal

The best thing about the castle is the view from it, especially at sunset, because there is not too much left of the original castle. The several earthquakes that the city has suffered throughout its history have completely destroyed it. Most of what you can visit now is a restoration, giving it a very “new” appearance.

4. Exploring Praça do Comércio, the best thing to do in Lisbon

Praça do Comércio is the most important squares in the city. It also marks the center of Lisbon and is one of the largest squares in Europe. Visiting it is one of the mandatory things to do in Lisbon.

It was built where the Royal Palace was , before the earthquake of 1755 destroyed it. From here, you can admire the Tagus River, which is why I think it is one of the best places to visit in Lisbon.

Walk in Praça do Comercio, something to do in Lisbon

4. Walk in Praça do Comercio, the best thing to do in Lisbon

The equestrian statue of José I is here as well. But if I have to highlight one element of the square, it’s the Arco da Rua Augusta, located on the north side, facing the Tagus River. To get into it, you have to book here . It was designed by architect Santos de Carvalho to celebrate the reconstruction of the city after the earthquake.

5. Lisbon Cathedral, the oldest church you must see in Lisbon

Lisbon Cathedral is known as the Sé and is a monument to visit in Lisbon . Its full name is Santa María Maior, and it is a Romanesque building from the 12th century, although different architectural styles can now be seen in it. It is located in the Alfama neighborhood and is very close to the Praça do Comércio.

Sé Cathedral, the oldest church you must see in Lisbon

5. Lisbon Cathedral, the oldest church in Lisbon – Xavier Chaume

It was restored and rebuilt several times, since it survived different natural disasters, such as the great earthquake. Therefore, you can see many different architectural styles here. The cloister has a style similar to that of the Jeronimos Monastery, and Roman, Arab and medieval styles coexist inside.

The upper portion houses the treasure room of the cathedral, which consists of 4 rooms full of jewels, costumes, and various relics from different eras. To visit the cloister and the treasure room, you need to pay an entrance fee, but you can visit the rest of the cathedral for free.

6. The best overlooks of Lisbon, Portugal

If you’re wondering what to do in Lisbon for free , you have to know that there are a lot of overlooks from which you get magnificent views of the city. This is thanks to the city being built on 7 hills. Some of these overlooks have already become places of interest in Lisbon.

Visit the best lookouts of Lisbon

6. The best overlooks of Lisbon, Portugal – Xavier Chaume

I recommend the Portas do Sol overlook, next to the church of Santa Luzia; Santa Luzia itself, in the Alfama neighborhood; the castle of San Jorge, one of the highest points of the old city; and the overlook of Graça, next to the castle. If you’re at one of these overlooks during the sunset , you’ll discover for yourself how beautiful Lisbon is.

You can also get good views from San Pedro de Alcántara, on La Baixa; from Cacilhas, a small freguesia in front of Lisbon; and from the National Pantheon, in the Alfama neighborhood.

7. Santa Justa Elevator, one of the nicest views over Lisbon

Visiting the Santa Justa Elevator is one of the best activities to do in Lisbon. I recommend going up at sunset, when the colors of the sky make the views impressive.

Although it is one of the best things to do in Lisbon , you will need to pay an entrance fee if you don’t have the Lisboa Card .

Santa Justa Elevator, one of the best lookouts in Lisbon

If you’re looking for tourist places in Lisbon, this is undoubtedly one of them. You can take stunning photos when the red light of sunset bathes everything in a pretty glow.

8. Taste the Pastéis de Belém, something to do in Lisbon

If you are looking for gastronomy in Lisbon , the Pastéis de Belém are one of the most typical culinary specialties. These pastries are made from a secret recipe that only 3 people in the world know . Although you can try them everywhere in the city, the original ones made from the secret recipe are only found in the Pastéis de Belém bakery, on the Rua de Belém, 84. In my experience, it’s worth going there to try them.

Pastéis de Belém, something you must taste in Lisbon

Curiously enough, the recipe is so protected that the three people who know it signed a confidentiality contract, they cannot travel in the same car in case they suffer an accident, and they cannot order the same dish in a restaurant in case it makes them all sick. All these precautions serve only one purpose: to save the authentic Pastéis de Belém.

9. Alfama, the most traditional neighborhood in Lisbon

La Alfama is one of the most characteristic neighborhoods in Lisbon , as it is one of the most traditional ones. It is also one of the oldest, since it survived the earthquake. If you’re going to visit Lisbon, you have to explore it, since it has many attractions.

Alfama, the most authentic neighborhood of Lisbon

Some of the highlights are the Feira da Ladra , a flea market; the Fado Museum , open since 1998; and Casa dos Bicos , on whose facade there are carved stones shaped like diamonds.

I recommend trying ginja , a sweet liqueur made with cherry, brandy, sugar, and cinnamon, here. It is very common to see older women who, after preparing it completely homemade, offer it at the door of their house to earn extra money. This is undoubtedly the most original and authentic ginja.

10. Chiado, a bohemian and beautiful place to visit in Lisbon

Chiado is a neighborhood full of cafes, bookstores, museums, and other places of cultural interest . It is a bohemian neighborhood because, between the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, poets and writers held gatherings here.

Chiado, a bohemian neighborhood in Lisbon

It is located between Baixa and Barrio Alto, and I consider it one of the most charming places to visit in Lisbon . The small shops stand out, as well as the bookstores. In fact, here you’ll find the Bertrand Bookstore, one of the oldest in the world . If you buy a book there, remember to ask for the stamp that certifies it has been purchased there. I also recommend having a coffee in A Brasileira, which is very good and cheap.

11. Take the Tram 28, a great stuff to do in Lisbon

Tram 28 is one of the most popular trams in the city and riding it is something great to do in Lisbon . This tram passes by some of the main attractions in Lisbon, such as Barrio Alto, Alfama, Chiado, Graça and the Jardim da Estrela, located in Campo de Ourique.

Take the Tram 28, a great activity to do in Lisbon

The journey lasts 40 minutes and starts at the Martim Moniz park. The tram is in service Mondays through Fridays from 5:40 am to 9:15 pm, Saturdays from 5:45 am to 10:30 pm, and Sundays from 6:45 am to 10:30 pm. I recommend taking it first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy your journey much more.

A single ticket costs €2.90, the full day costs €6.15, and it’s included with the Lisboa Card . You can also book this excursion that, apart from the tram ticket, includes a tour in the Alfama neighborhood.

12. Barrio Alto, a place to go in Lisbon at night

Barrio Alto is an interesting area by day, but it’s livelier at night . There are many cocktail bars for all tastes and budgets in this neighborhood.

The best streets to go partying are Rua do Norte, Rua da Atalaia, and Rua do Diário de Noticias. If you’re looking for things to do in Lisbon at night , this is your place.

Barrio Alto, a place to visit in Lisbon at night

However, during the day, it also has several tourist attractions to visit in Lisbon , such as Luís de Camões Square or the San Pedro de Alcántara overlook. Plus, one of the best clubs to go to is the Pavilhão Chinês. All the charms of old Lisbon are concentrated in one place.

13. Baixa, the central neighborhood in Lisbon

If you’re wondering what to see in the center of Lisbon , the Baixa neighborhood is where you should go. It is the heart of the city because of its central location and is where most shops and entertainment venues are located; it’s also the area where the hustle and bustle is concentrated.

Baixa, a place with more thing to do in Lisbon

13. Baixa, the central neighborhood in Lisbon – Xavier Chaume

Some of the best places to visit here are the Restauradores Square, crowned by a grand obelisk; the church of Santo Domingo, which is burnt inside; and Rossio Square, a former meeting place.

The things to see in Lisbon here are as important as the Elevator of Santa Justa and the Praça do Comércio.

14. Rossio Square, an emblematic place to visit in Lisbon

Its official name is Praça Dom Pedro IV. Located in the district of La Baixa, it is a meeting place for the people of Lisbon. You can find shops, bars, restaurants, and several things to see, such as the statue of Peter IV, so it is another place to visit in Lisbon.

Visit the Rossio Square, one of the best things to do in Lisbon

Here, you can also find the National Theater of Dona Maria II and the Burned Church of Santo Domingo.

It is the liveliest area of the city and also one of the best areas to stay in Lisbon.

15. Best Free tours in Lisbon

What to do in Lisbon for free? There are different tours, and depending on your tastes and interests, you can choose one or the other. We did the basic tour , the Belém tour and the bohemian tour , and we highly recommend all of them. Although later we returned to some areas the tours covered to see them at our own pace, I recommend taking them to get to know the city a little better. Another available tour is the Alfama one, where you will visit this historic neighborhood.

Pink Street, an interesting place in Lisbon to visit

15. Best Free tours in Lisbon – Xavier Chaume

All are free , although you have to leave a tip. They usually fill up quickly, so I always book in advance.

16. Monument to the Discoveries, an historical symbol of Lisbon

The Monument to the Discoveries was built in 1960 on the banks of the Tagus River, in the Belém neighborhood. It was built to commemorate the 500 years since the death of Henry the Navigator .

In addition to its historical significance, the monument’s most remarkable features are that it measures 52 meters, has a caravel shape, and features 33 personalities from the Age of Discovery . Fun fact: among these 33 personalities, there is a woman, Philippa of Lancaster .

Monument to the Discovers, an historical symbol of Lisbon

16. Monument to the Discoveries, symbol of Lisbon – Xavier Chaume

It is one of the places to visit in Lisbon with the most meaning. I should also highlight, the great Wind Rose World Map that explains the history of the Age of Discovery.

17. Park of the Nations, the futurist place to go in Lisbon, Portugal

The Park of Nations breaks with the aesthetics of the rest of the city. It was designed for the 1998 World Exposition and has a modern and contemporary look.

Park of the Nations, a modern place to visit in Lisbon, Portugal

The Pavilion of Knowledge, the Casino, and the Lisbon Aquarium are here. The aquarium might seem like a good place to visit in Lisbon with kids , but I don’t recommend it.

The Park of Nations is definitely worth a visit, though. It is one of the best attractions in Lisbon because it’s so different from the rest of the city.

18. National Tile Museum, the history of Portugal through the tiles

Tiles are a famous characteristic of Portuguese design. In this museum , tiles are exhibited from all eras, from the 15th century to the present. The museum is unique in its kind and has more than 7000 pieces, some of them from other countries.

National Tile Museum, a visit to do in Lisbon

If you don’t know what to do in Lisbon when it rains , visiting this museum may be a good option. Here, you can learn about the history of Lisbon through tiles, from the Arab occupation to the 20th century. In addition to the pieces on display, you can learn about the techniques used to make them. Even better, the ticket is also included with the Lisboa Card.

19. Cristo Rei, one of the most spectaculars attractions to visit in Lisbon

The statue of Christ the King in Lisbon was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer of Rio de Janeiro. I recommend you visit it regardless of whether you are a believer or not. In addition, you can climb up to the top, where there is an overlook. However, I do advise you wear a jacket because of the wind and because it is usually cold up top.

Cristo Rei, the most spectacular place in Lisbon

I think it’s one of the best things to do in Lisbon , especially because from here you get incredible views of the 25 de Abril Bridge and the rest of the city. We also saw Christ the King from a ship that went to Belém and the views were amazing.

20. Carmo Convent, an important ruins to go in Lisbon

The Carmo Convent belonged to the Order of the Carmelites. It was the largest Gothic church until the earthquake turned it into ruins. It currently houses the Archaeological Museum of Carmo.

Carmo Convent, another important place to go in Lisbon

It has become part of the main sightseeing in Lisbon due to its appearance. It was founded in 1389 and is in the Largo do Carmo, next to the Chiado neighborhood. In addition, it has the best views of Rossio and much of the city.

It will be the first thing you see as soon as you get off the Santa Justa Elevator. There Paleolithic and Neolithic pieces here, as well as the tomb of Ferdinand I of Portugal.

21. 25 de Abril Bridge, the most famous bridge in Lisbon

The 25 de Abril Bridge is a large suspension bridge and one of the most outstanding things to visit in Lisbon . It was the first that was built in the city, and its appearance resembles the Golden Gate Bridge of San Francisco.

After 45 months of works, it was opened to the public in 1966 under the name of Salazar Bridge , but after the Carnation Revolution, it acquired its current name. It measures 2,277 meters in length and has 2 levels. The upper one is for cars and the lower one is for trains. It connects the neighborhood of Alcántara with the city of Almada by crossing the Tagus estuary. Fun fact: it is a bridge that you can not only see but also hear. This is because it was made with a metal grid, and, when vehicles pass over it, it makes noise.

Cross the 25 de Abril Bridge, another thing to do in Lisbon

You can do the Pilar 7 experience to get to know the bridge better. In this experience, virtual reality is used to access inaccessible areas of the bridge. The bridge’s history is also presented, as well as various curiosities. You can book your entrance here , although it is also included in the Lisboa Card.

22. Take the Bica Funicular, one of the best things to do in Lisbon

The cable car da Bica is also known as Elevador da Bica and is a funicular. In Lisbon, there are 3 funiculars, but this is the most beautiful one, because its route, although short, is the most picturesque.

Take the Bica Funicular, another thing to do in Lisbon

22. Take the Bica Funicular, the best thing to do in Lisbon – Xavier Chaume

It combines the Rua de São Paulo (Rua Duarte Belo) with Largo de Calhariz (at the southern part of Barrio Alto) and allows you to enjoy its steep houses.

If you are looking for what to do in Lisbon, Portugal , this tour is very interesting and rarely visited by tourists. It’s ideal for traveling to another time and feeling like a real Lisbon local.

23. Mouraria and Fado, the authentic essence of Lisbon, Portugal

The neighborhood of Mouraria is the cradle of fado, a typical Portuguese song. It is something not to be missed in Lisbon , as it is part of Portuguese culture. Fado is the musical expression of the soul of the city and, today, it is being reborn. Furthermore, it was declared part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO . Fado was born in the Mouraria neighborhood, another one of the places to visit in Lisbon.

Mouraria and Fado, Lisbon, Portugal

Mouraria was the Moorish neighborhood of the capital city of Portugal, and in it, there are several tascas where you can hear fado, as well as a “walk of fame” , in the Rua do Capelão, where several notable names connected to Portuguese music appear.

24. Vasco da Gama Bridge, the longest bridge in Europe

Another of the places to see in Lisbon is the Vasco da Gama Bridge. It was built as an alternative to 25 de Abril bridge, as there was a lot of traffic and many traffic jams. The bridge was built for the 1998 World Exposition.

Cross the Vasco de Gama Bridge, something to do in Lisbon

24. Vasco da Gama Bridge, the longest bridge in Europe – Rafa Martín

It measures more than 12 km and joins the north and south of Portugal. It is known as the longest bridge in Europe . More than 3,000 workers were needed for its construction, which took a total of 18 months. It connects Montijo and Sacavém and can be found south of the Park of Nations.

25. Sintra, the best excursion to take in Lisbon

If you want to visit Lisbon and its surroundings , Sintra is one of the best excursions to take.

This area has become a favorite for its historic buildings and interesting attractions. The train journey there takes less than 40 minutes from Lisbon.

Sintra, a place to visit near Lisbon

Some points of interest are the Palácio Nacional da Pena, one of the best in Europe; the Palace of Sintra, in the Gothic style; Quinta da Regaleira, a fabulous mansion; and the Castelo dos Mouros, the ruins of an Arab castle.

If you have time to visit Lisbon and its surroundings , I highly recommend this excursion that I took during my first getaway to Lisbon.

26. Pena Palace, the most famous attraction to visit in Sintra

The Pena National Palace is one of the most famous castles in Sintra and one of the most beautiful ones in Europe thanks to its color and mixture of architectural styles.

Its gardens and views are outstanding, making it one of the most interesting places to go near Lisbon . It is located in an impressive natural landscape, and its construction dates back to the 19th century.

Pena Palace, the most beautiful attraction in Sintra

Pay attention to its eclectic architecture and exteriors. Just seeing the perimeter of the palace is worth the visit, so I recommend you book in advance here .

27. Quinta da Regaleira, another interesting visit in Sintra, Lisbon

The most beautiful thing about Quinta da Regaleira , in addition to its architecture, is the landscape. Next to the Pena Palace, I consider it an essential visit if you go to Sintra. It attracts attention because it seems to be full of mysteries and legends.

The Quinta da Regaleira, something to visit in Sintra

It dates from the beginning of the 20th century and you can visit both the exterior and the interior of the palace, where the sketches and notes that Manini took on his trips are preserved. I consider it one of the best places to visit in Lisbon and surroundings .

28. Cascais, one of the best places to go near Lisbon

Cascais is an old fishing village located 30 km from Lisbon. The best beaches of the Portuguese capital city are concentrated here, making it a perfect holiday destination. These are Praia da Ribeira, Praia da Conceição, Praia da Rainha, Praia de Parede, and Praia do Guincho. If you are looking for places to visit near Lisbon , this town is worth it.

To Cascais from Lisbon, Portugal

Other attractions are the Boca do Inferno, an impressive cliff; the promenade, which goes from Cascais to Estoril; and Cabo do Roca.

29. Cabo da Roca, the most impressive cliff in Cascais, Lisbon

This impressive cliff is in Cascais and, until the end of the 14th century, it was considered the end of the world. It is inside the Sintra – Cascais Natural Park.

It is one of the most impressive landscapes in and around Lisbon . The waves of the Atlantic Ocean break there and produce a strange sensation.

Cabo da Roca, a cliff you have to visit in Cascais, Lisbon

The visit to Cabo da Roca is free. It can be reached easily by renting a car or by taking the 403 bus, a ticket costs €4.05.

30. Sunset Cruise on the Tagus River, the best activity to do in Lisbon

The cruise runs along the entire Tagus coast and, from the boat, you can see numerous city monuments. If it is done at sunset, the views are beautiful, and the experience is very pleasant.

It is one of the best things to do in Lisbon , as it gives off a special charm. On board, you can admire some famous monuments, such as the Basilica da Estrela.

Cruise on the Tagus River, something romantic to do in Lisbon

You can book this 2-hour relaxing experience here .

And that’s all. On the map below you will find all the places I recommend visiting in Lisbon. Additionally, you can download the tourist map of Lisbon to use it from your mobile at any time. It’s a perfect tool for not getting lost on the beautiful streets of Lisbon.

Finally, I recommend that you buy travel insurance for Europe, even if you’re only taking a short break in Lisbon.

That’s it! I hope you enjoy Lisbon and get to visit as many Lisbon sights as you can!

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The 22 best things to do in Lisbon

By Trish Lorenz and Abigail Malbon

the best things to do in lisbon

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

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

No visit to Lisbon is complete without a walk through the historic suburbs of Alfama and Mouraria which tumble down the...

1. Walk the city

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

Graffiti of Fado Lisbon

2. Listen to Fado music

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

Nos Alive festival in Lisbon

3. Go to a festival

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

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

28 tram Lisbon

4. Ride the 28 tram

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

Wall of portuguese pottery Lisbon

5. Visit a ceramics shop

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

The local custard tart with its addictive mix of sweet custard and flaky pastry is a Portuguese tradition that never...

6. Eat a pastel de nata

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

Beach in Lisbon Portugal

7. Visit nearby beaches

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

LX Factory Lisbon Portugal

8. Hang out with locals at LX Factory

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

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9. Eat in one of the city’s restaurants

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

The National Pantheon church seen from the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora

10. Climb to the top of the Panteão Nacional

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

Feira da Ladra Lisbon Portugal

11. Go shopping

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

Palacio da Pena Sintra

12. Visit Sintra

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

Rooftop at the lumiares hotel in lisbon with a view overlooking the city

13. Watch the sun set at a rooftop bar

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

Belem Tower on the Tagus River Lisbon

14. See the Belém Tower

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

Roof tops in Lisbon

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

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

There are a surprising number of beaches within easy reach of the sunny city so youre bound to have plenty of days to...

16. Learn to surf

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

Museum of Art Architecture and Technology  Lisbon

17. Go to a museum

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

Jéronimos Monastery

18. See the Jerónimos Monastery

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

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

Monsanto Park

19. Take a walk through Monsanto Park

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

Rua Augusta Baixa Lisbon Portugal

20. Take a food tour

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

Sao Jorge Castle

21. Visit the Castelo de São Jorge

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

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

Mafra National Palace

22. See the Palácio Nacional de Mafra

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

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

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27 Top Attractions & Things to do in Lisbon

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The capital of sunny Portugal, Lisbon is situated at the point where the Tagus River estuary meets the Atlantic Ocean. As a travel destination, the riverfront city is as rich and varied as the country’s long history. From the ruins of a Moorish castle perched atop one of the city’s seven hills to a sidewalk café snuggled against an ancient Visigoth wall, remnants of Lisbon’s colorful past are everywhere.

Lisbon is rightfully proud of the role it played during Portugal’s Age of Discovery, and monuments celebrating the voyages of explorers like Vasco da Gama are among the most important attractions in Lisbon.

Map of Lisbon

Lisbon Map

While Western Europe’s oldest city has taken steps to overhaul its transportation system, modernize its downtown area and revamp its waterfront, it’s the charm of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods that most attract visitors. Exploring its hilly streets of winding alleys and historic landmarks on foot is one of the most rewarding things to do in Lisbon and somewhere you could spend hours perusing.

The city is also famed for its vibrant arts and music scene, love of soccer (Cristiano Ronaldo started his professional career at Sporting Lisbon) and tradition of Fado music. Overall, it is a destination rich in landmarks, attractions and character that should appeal to every traveler.

27. Igreja de Sao Roque

Igreja de São Roque

The Igreja de São Roque is one of the oldest Jesuit churches in the world. Built in the 16th century, it is a remarkable structure renowned for its rich history and exquisite architectural beauty.

While its Renaissance façade is rather unassuming, you’ll be captivated by its intricate Baroque and Mannerist design, ornate chapels, and gilded altarpieces when you step inside. The highlight of the church is the Capela de São João Baptista, often referred to as the ‘world’s most expensive chapel’.

Decorated with lapis lazuli, precious marbles and amethyst, and finished with ivory, silver and gold, the chapel’s main focal point is an intricate mosaic. Created by Mattia Moretti it is called ‘The Baptism of Christ’ and will captivate your attention for quite some time.

26. Feira da Ladra

Feira da Ladra

If you are into shopping, check out the ‘Feira da Ladra’ flea market.

Held every Tuesday and Saturday, from dawn until early afternoon, at Campo de Santa Clara – a square by the National Pantheon – the market has a long history. Its name first appeared in documentation during the 17th Century. However, there is evidence it existed as far back as the 12th Century.

Many people believe its name translates to ‘Thieves’ Market’ because the word ‘ladra’ means a woman thief in Portuguese. However, it actually comes from ‘ladro’, meaning a flea or bug found in antiques. Today, several stalls or traders display their goods on a blanket. Shoppers can find everything from hand-made artisan items, books and clothes to coins, military objects, antiques and furniture.

25. Carmo Convent Ruins

Carmo Convent Ruins

The Carmo Convent Ruins are a hauntingly beautiful testament to a dark day in Lisbon’s history. The convent, constructed in the 14th century, was severely damaged during the devastating earthquake of 1755. At this time, many worshipers tragically lost their lives due to falling debris and masonry.

As a poignant reminder of the city’s past, the towering arches and crumbling walls create a captivating and eerie atmosphere. Visitors can explore the site, wandering among the weathered stone columns and imagining the grandeur that once existed. The adjacent Carmo Archaeological Museum houses artefacts that provide further insight into the site’s history.

The church’s front also faces the beautiful Largo do Carmo in Chiado, which features the stunning Chafariz do Carmo fountain as its centerpiece.

24. National Museum of Ancient Art

National Museum of Ancient Art

The National Museum of Ancient Art is one of our favorite attractions in Lisbon. Housed in a beautiful 17th-century palace, the museum boasts diverse works, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and decorative arts.

Showcasing an extensive collection of art from Portugal and beyond, we saw incredible masterpieces by renowned artists such as Hieronymus Bosch, Albrecht Dürer, and Nuno Gonçalves. The museum’s main highlights include the ‘Temptations of Saint Anthony’ triptych and an impressive Portuguese Renaissance and Baroque collection.

What we liked most about this museum is that its rich and varied collection offers a fascinating journey through the artistic heritage of Portugal. A place you could easily spend all day at, it provides a captivating insight into the country’s cultural history.

23. Miradouro Sao Pedro de Alcantara

Miradouro Sao Pedro de Alcantara

Lisbon’s most famous observation point is the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. It is located near the Elevador da Glória and showcases a tremendous city view.

An excellent place to get your bearings when you first arrive in the city, you will be able to observe Restauradores Square and Baixa from this vantage point. You should also be able to make out Avenida da Liberdade boulevard and the impressive walls and verdant pine trees of the Castelo de São Jorge. The Igreja da Graça, a 13th-century baroque-style grand church, can also be seen in detail.

The observation point is situated within an attractive, manicured garden, making it a lovely spot for a picnic or just relaxing after a busy sightseeing day.

22. LX Factory

LX Factory

One of the most fun things to do in Lisbon is a shopping trip to the LX Factory. Previously an industrial textile complex, LX Factory has transformed into one of Lisbon’s trendiest hubs of trendy restaurants, bars, and shops.

Situated under the Ponte de 25 Abril Bridge, the renovated area has a village-like feel with its cobbled streets and street art on rustic warehouse walls. Whilst there, you can buy clothes at Etnik Spring or Coqueta, jewellery at Ana Couto & Valérie Lachuer or Hilary & June, and home furnishing products at Pura Cal.

In addition, you can also enjoy a meal in a former industrial canteen, browse through a multi-story bookstore and witness artists at work in their ateliers and studios. Live music performances or exhibitions are also hosted from time to time.

21. Lisbon Zoo

Lisbon Zoo

Lisbon Zoo is no ordinary zoo. It is, in fact, a popular destination that combines entertainment, education, and conservation.

The zoo is home to a diverse range of animal species from around the world, allowing visitors to observe and learn about wildlife up close.

It houses everything from majestic lions and playful dolphins to colorful birds and adorable primates, thus offering a fascinating experience for all ages. It even has crocodiles, lynxes, ostriches and giraffes, which most people don’t get to see every day.

Alongside the animal exhibits, they offer educational programs, interactive displays, and informative presentations promoting awareness and conservation efforts. The zoo also features beautifully landscaped gardens and picnic areas, providing a pleasant and relaxing environment for you to enjoy.

20. Day Trip to Sintra

Sintra

Lisbon is a great city, and you’ll no doubt want to spend as much time as you can there. However, if you do have time for a side trip, we recommend you visit the wonderful town of Sintra.

Sitting snug within the foothills of the craggy Serra de Sintra, it will take you about 40 minutes to get there by train from the city center. But once you are there, you will find yourself in a place with regal royal palaces, enchanting mansions, and an incredible Moorish castle, dating back to the 8th century.

The historic old town of Sintra-Vila is a delightful mix of colorful, ornate townhouses, decorative cafés, and traditional restaurants wedged along a maze of cobblestone streets and narrow alleys. It’s a place you will want to spend plenty of time soaking it all in.

19. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

The Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is a famous landmark in Lisbon that offers another peaceful place to admire panoramic views of the city.

It’s located near Miradouro da Graça and provides a marvelous vantage point to observe the capital. Visitors can see the church of Graça and the castle, with houses cascading down its hillside, guarding the city.

The river and the Tagus estuary also illuminate the rooftops of Baixa, Carmo’s ruins, and the pastel tones of Avenidas Novas. Interestingly, this is where Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal, gathered his troops to conquer Lisbon nine centuries ago. Today, the Lady of the Mount (Senhora do Monte) and her chapel – founded in 1147 – reign supreme here.

18. Ajuda National Palace

Ajuda National Palace

The Ajuda National Palace is one of the most impressive buildings in Lisbon. A grand architectural marvel built in the 19th century, it served as the royal family’s official residence, showcasing an opulent blend of Neoclassical and Baroque styles.

As you wander its halls, you’ll discover much about how the monarchy lived. Tourists can explore lavishly decorated rooms with exquisite tapestries, intricate furnishings, and magnificent chandeliers. The palace also houses a remarkable collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

State Rooms occupy most of the upper floor, while there is a spectacular Music Room on the ground floor. Outside, the surrounding gardens provide a serene oasis with beautifully landscaped grounds and scenic viewpoints to take in the palace’s facade.

17. Museu Colecao Berardo

Museu Coleção Berardo

The Museu Coleção Berardo is a world-class contemporary art museum with a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary artworks. José Berardo, a prominent Portuguese businessman and art collector, founded it in 2006.

Located in the Praça do Império in Belém, the museum showcases various art movements and styles, including works by renowned artists. They include the likes of Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Andy Warhol, and Francis Bacon. The museum’s collection spans multiple mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and installation art.

Its sleek and spacious galleries provide a perfect setting to appreciate the innovative and often thought-provoking artworks within its two permanent exhibitions and several temporary shows. If you do plan to come here, be aware it is closed on Mondays.

16. Se Cathedral

Sé Cathedral

Sé de Lisboa, also known as Lisbon Cathedral, holds great significance as the city’s oldest and most important church. Its construction, dating back to the 12th century, is defined by a predominantly Romanesque style. However, several alterations have incorporated other design styles, giving it a unique character over the years.

The cathedral is protected by its thick walls and two bell towers, which give it a medieval fortress-like appearance. Upon entering, visitors will find a decorative interior, including a fountain where Saint Anthony of Padua was baptized, 14th-century sarcophagi, and a striking 14th-century Gothic chapel.

One of its dominant features is its magnificent rose-stained glass window. At the same time, its intricate chapels and the imposing main altar are also noteworthy.

15. Vasco da Gama Bridge

Vasco da Gama Bridge

Completed in 1998, the Vasco da Gama bridge is a modern feat of engineering and a popular attraction. Named after Portugal’s most famous explorer, it was built to alleviate Lisbon’s traffic congestion. Stretching for nearly 17 km (11 miles) across the Tagus River, the cable-stayed bridge is so long that its builders had to take the Earth’s curve into consideration when constructing it.

Built at an expense of 1.1 billion dollars, the six-lane bridge is expected to stand for more than a century, ensuring that visitors can experience its breathtaking architecture for generations to come.

14. National Azulejo Museum

National Azulejo Museum

Plastered on structures from churches and shops to metro stations, the colorful ceramic tiles known as azulejos are found everywhere in Lisbon. The National Azulejo Museum chronicles their architectural and cultural significance in the city’s long history.

A tradition that began in the 8th century with the arrival of the Moors, the art of tile-making in Portugal reached its height in the 16th century with the introduction of oxide coatings. The museum’s exhibits feature individual tiles as well as elaborate wall panels. The convent church located within the complex holds some of the most intricate examples of azulejo art.

Showcasing an extensive collection that spans several centuries, visitors can marvel at the intricate designs, vibrant colors, and storytelling elements depicted on these decorative tiles.

The museum explores the history and evolution of azulejos and highlights their significance in Portuguese culture and architecture. Its incredibly detailed displays incorporate everything from religious and historical scenes to geometric patterns and floral motifs.

13. Time Out Market Lisboa

Time Out Market Lisboa

In 2014, the oldest food market in Lisbon reopened as the Time Out Market Lisboa after an extensive renovation. It has since become the city’s most popular tourist attraction.

More than 3 million visitors flock to the food hall each year to explore Portugal’s regional cuisine. Boasting 35 kiosks and multiple restaurants, the marketplace offers everything from sheep’s cheese from Azeirao to Alentejo ham and Arcadia chocolates.

Foodies can enjoy prepared meals, sample treats and purchase beautifully packaged food to take home. The market opens every day at 10 a.m., making it the perfect place to savor a late brunch or early dinner.

12. Cristo Rei Statue

Cristo Rei Statue

Inspired by Brazil’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, the Cristo Rei statue rises up from a hill overlooking the Targus River. The massive monument was built to express gratitude to God for allowing Portugal to escape the worst horrors of World War II.

It was opened to the public in 1959. Standing with arms outstretched, the Christ figure is set atop a tall arch with a rectangular observation deck at the base. An interior elevator takes visitors to a platform beneath the figure’s feet for panoramic views of Lisbon, the Targus estuary and the Golden-Gate-style 25 de Abril Bridge.

11. Praca do Comercio

Praca do Comercio

One of the star attractions of Lisbon’s downtown waterfront, the Praca do Comercio is an expansive plaza flanked by elegant 18th-century buildings. Portugal’s Dom Jose I made his home here until the earthquake of 1755 reduced it to rubble.

Locals still refer to the square as the Terreiro do Paco, or yard of the royal palace. A monument featuring the king on horseback dominates the center of the plaza. A large triumphal arch completed in 1873 anchors the northern side. Hotels, shops and restaurants located nearby make the sunny square a popular destination for visitors exploring Lisbon’s scenic waterfront.

10. Monument to the Discoveries

Monument to the Discoveries

The mammoth white-stone Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) stands like a ship with sails unfurled at shoreline of the Tagus River where many of Portugal’s most important voyages of exploration began.

It was built as a memorial to Infante Dom Henrique, who later became known as Prince Henry the Navigator. The prince who ushered in Portugal’s Age of Discovery is featured at the prow of the stone sculpture with other national heroes and explorers lined up behind him.

Inside the monument is a museum with interesting exhibits that provide further insights into Portugal’s maritime achievements. Additionally, visitors can ascend to its top level via an escalator to take in stunning panoramic views of the river and surrounding cityscape.

9. Museu Gulbenkian

Museu Gulbenkian

Lisbon serves as the headquarters for the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, a non-profit organization funded by the fortune of the late Armenian oil magnate. Built to display the private art collection that Gulbenkian amassed during his lifetime, the Museu Gulbenkian offers visitors a truly extraordinary experience.

While the collection is small, the quality of each piece is extraordinary. From masterpieces by Monet, Renoir and Rembrandt to Lalique jewelry, Chinese jade and Persian porcelain, it’s a collection that encapsulates the best of every aspect and time period of art history. The museum often plays host to world-class traveling exhibitions as well.

8. Rossio Square (Pedro IV Square)

Rossio Square

There’s no better place in Lisbon to soak up the local atmosphere than at Pedro IV Square, Lisbon’s most famous plaza. Located in the elegant Pombaline Lower Town district in central Lisbon, the “Rossio,” has been the city’s main gathering place since the Middle Ages.

During the Inquisition of the 16th century, the square served as a setting for public executions. Today, it’s the place where friends meet up to enjoy a beverage at a café or bar before attending the National Theater located on the north side of the square.

7. Santa Justa Elevator

Santa Justa Elevator

Located in the downtown district, the Santa Justa Elevator offers visitors delightful views of lovely Lisbon. Built in 1902, the “elevador” was designed by Raul Mésnier, who was inspired by the famous tower in Paris, which his colleague Gustav Eiffel created.

The wrought-iron tower lifts passengers to a platform where a walkway leads to the ruins of Carmo Convent, a Gothic church that was partially destroyed during the great earthquake of 1755. Alternately, visitors can climb a staircase to the top of the elevator structure to enjoy vistas of the entire Baixa neighborhood.

6. Alfama District

Alfama District

The oldest quarter in historic Lisbon, the Alfama district is dotted with architectural landmarks, including some that date back to the city’s Moorish past, but it’s the charm of the neighborhood’s meandering streets, tasty eateries and Fado clubs that make the Alfama a can’t-miss destination.

Lined with Fado bars and clubs, Largo do Charariz de Dentro is the best place to go to enjoy the traditional Portuguese folk music. The plaza is just one of the many observation decks scattered around this hilly neighborhood. For an expansive view of the Alfama and the Tagus River, visitors head to Lisbon’s original Moorish gateway, Largo das Portas do Sol.

5. Lisbon Oceanarium

Lisbon Oceanarium

One of the best modern tourist attractions in Lisbon, the Oceanarium was built as part of the improvements the city made when it hosted the 1998 World Exposition. Located in the Parque das Nações in northeast Lisbon, the Lisbon Oceanarium is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe.

It’s organized into four unique habitats, with each representing a different ocean. In addition to all manner of sea life ranging from sharks and sting rays to penguins and otters, flora and fauna from each ecosystem are represented as well. Strolling pasts tank of colorful fish with tropical birds flitting overhead offers an immersive experience not to be missed.

4. Jeronimos Monastery

Jeronimos Monastery

The Jerónimos Monastery is a magnificent architectural masterpiece, deservedly awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

This iconic monument dates back to the 16th century. It is a prime example of the Manueline style, characterized by intricate stonework and maritime motifs. The monastery’s grandeur is awe-inspiring, with its towering spires, ornate cloisters, and beautifully carved details. Your first impression of it will take your breath away.

Once inside, you can also explore the vast nave and chapels adorned with stunning religious art and exquisite stained glass windows. Notably, the monastery houses the tombs of famous Portuguese figures, including explorer Vasco da Gama.

Once you have toured the monastery, pop into the fascinating Maritime Museum adjacent to it, which offers insights into Portugal’s rich maritime history.

Tram 28

Most of the decades-old trolley cars that were once a primary mode of transportation in Lisbon are long gone, but visitors can still enjoy a ride on an antique streetcar on tram line 28.

The historic “eléctrico” takes passengers through the city’s oldest sectors past some of Lisbon’s most popular sights and attractions. Tourists often take tram 28 to the hilltop São Jorge Castle to take in the panoramic views, but the line is used by locals for their daily commutes too. The old tram line offers a great way to get oriented in the city and meet new people.

2. Sao Jorge Castle

São Jorge Castle

One of Lisbon’s oldest treasures, São Jorge Castle (or St. George’s Castle) is situated at the top of a hill in the Alfama District. The city’s most popular attraction evokes the period when Lisbon was under Moorish rule, but the site was fortified centuries earlier when the Romans and Visigoths were in power as well.

After driving out the Moors in 1147, the Portuguese used the castle as a royal residence until the early 16th century. Today, the royal quarters are home to a museum featuring archeological exhibits.

Climbing the castle ramparts is a must-do activity in Lisbon, and it’s easy to understand why. The views from the parapets and battlements are simply breathtaking.

1. Belem Tower

Belem Tower

Arguably, Lisbon’s most iconic landmark is The Belém Tower.

An endearing symbol of the city, the fortress-like tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Standing on the edge of the Tagus River, its Manueline architecture, characterized by intricate details and maritime motifs, is truly captivating.

Occupying a strategic location, it served as a defense structure during the Age of Discovery. You can find out more about its past by touring inside the tower. You will find several levels to explore there, including the Governor’s Hall, its dungeons and its main terrace.

Access to the latter is via a very steep and spiraling staircase, which might be challenging for some people. But if you can successfully negotiate it, you will be rewarded with superb panoramic views of the river and esplanade.

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March 22, 2019 at 10:45 am

Lisbon is overcrowded with tourists. I’d spend as little time as possible there. Just rent a car and travel along the coast and you’ll enjoy the authenthic Portugal and not this plastic city that Lisbon turned into over the past 5 years.

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What to See in Lisbon?

Our 22 top lisbon must-sees.

Latest update: June 15, 2023

In a nutshell: Our favorite Lisbon highlights

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

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

What to see in Lisbon in 3 days?

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

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

Praça do Comércio

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

All Lisbon sights on a map

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

Download Lisbon’s attractions map for easy access

The Lisbon sights on a map

The Tram Line 28E

Tram line 28E in Lisbon

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

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

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

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

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

Pastéis de Nata

Pastéis de Nata

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

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

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

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

The best viewpoints in Lisbon

Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara

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

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

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

Elevador de Santa Justa

Elevador de Santa Justa in Lisbon

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

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

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

Our tips for visiting the Elevador de Santa Justa

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

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

Elevador da Bica

Elevador da Bica in Lisbon

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

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

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

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

Elevador da Glória

Elevador da Glória in Lisbon

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

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

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

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

Time Out Market

Time Out Mercado da Ribeira

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

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

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

LX Factory in Lissabon

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

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

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

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

Alfama and Castelo neighborhoods

The Alfama neighborhood in Lisbon

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

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

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

Bairro Alto neighborhood

Blue tile walls in Bairro Alto

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

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

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

Praça do Comércio in Lisbon

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

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

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

Castelo de São Jorge

Castelo Sao Jorge Lisbon

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

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

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

Ticket: Castelo de São Jorge with tour guide

To the website of Castelo São Jorge

Lisbon Cathedral

Lisbon Cathedral

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

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

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

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

Closed on Sundays

Panteão Nacional - Igreja Santa Engrácia

Lisbon Pantheon

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

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

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

Ticket for the Pantheon with fast access

Closed on Mondays

To the website of the Pantheon

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Mosteiro dos Jeronimos in Lisbon

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

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

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

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

To the website of the monastery

Torre de Belém

Torre de Belém

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

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

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

To the website of the Bélem Tower

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

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

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

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

Ponte 25 de Abril

Ponte 25 de Abril in Lisbon

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

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

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

To the ticket for the Pilar 7 Experience

Cristo Rei Statue

Christo Rei Statue in Lisbon

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

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

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

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

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

8 euros (elevator)

To the website of the Cristo Rei statue

Parque das Nações

Expo area in Lisbon

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

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

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

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

Beaches near Lisbon

Praia do Guincho

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

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

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

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

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

Day trip to Sintra from Lisbon

Palácio Nacional da Pena in Sintra near Lisbon

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

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

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

From Lisbon: Day trip to Sintra

General tips: How to best see Lisbon’s sights

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

#1 Book a central hotel

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

Tempo FLH Hotels Petit Lusa

Hotel da Baixa Le Consulat

Memmo Príncipe Real Bairro Alto Hotel

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

#2 Getting around Lisbon

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

Viva Viagem Card Lisbon

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

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

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

#3 Book a guided tour

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

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

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

What are your must-sees in Lisbon?

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

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

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

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

Day 1 – Lisbon

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

Also see: Complete Portugal Travel Guide

lisbon city trip

1. Santa Justa Lift

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

lisbon city portugal

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

best tourist place in lisbon

2. Wander through Lisbon’s Main Square

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

Here are all your hotel options in Lisbon.

lisbon Praca do Comercio

3. Pink Street

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

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

pink street

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

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

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

tram 28 Lisbon things to do

5. Alfama – Best of Lisbon

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

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

alfama lisbon

6. Sunset at a viewpoint

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

Also read: Complete Porto City Trip Guide

viewpoint lisbon

Day 2 – Sintra

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

Also read: Best Places to visit in Portugal

things to do lisbon pena palace

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

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

things to do lisbon sintra monserrate

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

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

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

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

Find out about the best city trips in Europe .

things to do lisbon Castle São Jorge

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

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

breakfast lisbon

Day 3 – Cascais and Belem

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

best tourist place in lisbon

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

cascais lisbon

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

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

best tourist place in lisbon

10. Cascais Beach

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

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

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

cascais beach

11. Belem Tower

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

lisbon belem tower

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

Tip: The Belem tower is closed every Monday.

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

12. Mosteiro dos Jerónimos 

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

13. LX Factory 

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

Visit near Lisbon: Obidos, Portugal’s charming village

best tourist place in lisbon

14. Time Out Market

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

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

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

time out market lisbon

Where to Stay

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

Hotels in Lisbon 😴

Lisbon Destination Hostel

How Much Does Lisbon Cost? 

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

Costs of Traveling in Lisbon

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

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

How to Visit Lisbon

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

lisbon portugal station rossio

Getting Around

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Lisbon

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

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

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

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10 Great Things To Do in Porto, Portugal

9 things to do in cascais, portugal, monsanto: the stunning rock village of portugal.

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50 Best Tourist Attractions in Lisbon, Portugal

best tourist attractions in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is one of those cities where you can spend literally hours getting lost amongst its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and neighborhood hills where old buildings show off gorgeous tiles and cracks adding character.

With a sense of untouched magic in the air, this vibrant capital is the perfect amalgamation of European-cool with its trendy bars, fusion-style eateries (including Michelin awardees), and quaint boutiques down every alleyway. There are so many incredible things to do in Lisbon .

Adding this to the fact that it’s one of the oldest cities in the entire world; its historical, architectural, and cultural facets are tenfold, not to mention awe-inspiring.

Dedicate an entire day (or three) just to explore its emblematic buildings, landmarks, and monuments, wandering amidst stunning architecture and dozens of World UNESCO Heritage Sites.

Visit antiquated palaces in a variety of design styles, scope centuries-old castles and grand old manors, dive into the country’s history amongst the plethora of unique museums, become acquainted with traditional Portuguese art and enjoy a ride through the city on old-school trams or cable cars swooping over the Tagus River.

With endless options on the table, here are 50 of the best tourist attractions in Lisbon for a culturally enriching holiday!

1 – São Jorge Castle

São Jorge Castle, Lisbon

Rising over the city of Lisbon, you can see the striking antiquated São Jorge Castle perched on the hillside from dozens of areas around the capital.

A National Monument; it’s one of the most important surviving Portuguese structures, detailing the country’s multi-faceted past from its changing reigns to crusades and even a time before most civilizations sprung up.

(The hill on which it is built dates back to the Celtics, and was utilized by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Suebi, Visigoths, and the Moors.)

Although it’s referred to as the castle, there is no real evidence that points to an actual castle ever being built here, instead, the grounds were part of a major fortification system, built around a former Islamic settlement.

It wasn’t until the 10th century that the current fort walls were erected, and succeeding this, Afonso III was the first to use the grounds as his residence.

A century later, King Denis I converted the steed into a lavish palace, known as the Royal Palace of the Alcáçova. Over the centuries, the walls were made higher and bolder.

Meander through the castle during one of the Alfama District tours in Lisbon, visiting its gateways, towers, the Place-of-Arms and Praça Nova squares, the Barbican, and moat, as well as the abandoned royal palace in the center of the monument.

There are guided tours available provided by the castle (including themed expeditions), providing insightful descriptions of its history and archeology, as well as workshops to join.

  • Alfama District tours in Lisbon

2 – The Cathedral of Saint Mary Major

The Cathedral of Saint Mary Major, Lisbon

So much more than just a religious place of worship, the Lisbon Cathedral is one of the top sites to investigate for a glimpse into historical architecture, facts, and even artworks — there’s a good reason it’s an official National Monument.

Constructed in 1147, the building has undergone numerous style changes since its first inception, from its original Romanesque design to Gothic additives, Mannerist elements were attached, and then finally finished in its current Neo-Romanesque appearance.

Chronicle its history inside the Treasury of the Cathedral of Lisbon, and the museum focuses on art and religious articles from the 16th to the 19th century. There are three main rooms to examine: Relics and Reliquaries, The Liturgical Year, and the Chapter Room.

There are more treasures to implore inside the Cathedral. Climb to the top of the Choir Loft and admire the stunning stained glass windows; check out the Gothic-style Deambulatory and the Radiant Chapels; marvel over a collection of Renaissance paintings at the Chapel of Bartholomew Joanes; and the transept still contains original Romanesque vaults.

  • walking tours in Lisbon

3 – Belém Tower

Belém Tower, Lisbon

The lone-standing Belem Tower on the north bank of the Tagus River is another one of Lisbon’s historically prized possessions, dating to the 16th century.

Built between 1514 and 1519, the defense structure is a prime example of the Manueline architectural style, often referred to as ‘Portuguese late Gothic’ and so it’s no surprise it’s marked a World UNESCO Heritage Site (since 1983).

Made from limestone, the four-story tower rises 30 meters into the sky and the structure was erected as part of the capital’s fortification system. It was purposefully assembled on this site at the river mouth, as back in the day, this is one point where travelers would enter and exit the city.

Also known as the Tower of St. Vincent (named after Vincent of Saragossa, the patron saint of Lisbon), the medieval stronghold comprises four stories; the Governor’s Room, Kings’ Room, Audience Room, and the Chapel.

Take a tour inside Belém Tower, visiting the former dungeons (converted artillery depots). Following a narrow staircase, explore each room. There is a rooftop terrace as well, and keep an eye open for the rhino gargoyle!

  • Belém tours in Lisbon

4 – Jeronimos Monastery

Jeronimos Monastery, Lisbon

Seriously, you’re spoiled for choice in this city when it comes to gawking over gorgeous construction, most of which is centuries old. Housing crypts to some of Portugal’s most prized explorers, pioneers, and poets (such as Vasco da Gama, Luis de Camões, and King Sebastião), the Jeronimos Monastery is an important one to Lisbon.

A paragon of Manueline-style architecture; the abbey (also called the Monastery of Jerónimos) epitomizes this flamboyant 16th-century Portuguese movement — popular until about 1520 CE.

Built in 1502, the site was chosen by King Manuel and Vasco da Gama stayed here on his last night in Portugal before journeying off to India. The monks of the Order of Saint Jerome lived here until the 19th century.

Have your breath taken away by the incredible design … Surrounding the center courtyard are corridors opened up by beautiful curving archways intricately carved in hyper detail. Look up at the ceiling inside the church and marvel over the geometric compositions.

Outside the monastery is the Praça do Império Garden with its manicured hedges, four ponds, and a fountain in the middle, and is a lovely area to wander through afterward.

  • Jeronimos Monastery tickets & tours

5 – National Pantheon

National Pantheon, Lisbon

Another important landmark where many tombs of the country’s rich and famous are kept, this time, the National Pantheon is where to scope typical Portuguese Baroque architecture.

It wasn’t until 1916 that this National Monument became known as the “Pantheon” and its renowned white dome was only added to the building 50 years after its renaming.

Prior to this, the all-white basilica — which was never officially ever initiated as a formal place of worship — was known as the Church of Saint Engratia .

Renamed but never fully reformed, you can investigate its original features dating to the 17th century (the first church structure shot up in the 16th century, but the church was totally rebuilt a century later).

Inside, enjoy viewing its grand spaces… Find the Baroque-style Galilee sculpture by the forecourt (a space often reserved for private events and shows), and admire its marble-centric floors and walls. Entering the church, look for the coat of arms of Portugal in the clasp of two angels.

  • city tours in Lisbon

6 – Santa Justa Lift

Santa Justa Lift, Lisbon

Without sugarcoating anything, be prepared to walk the hills of Lisbon town! One way to help provide ease of access was by creating the Santa Justa Lift, also known as the “Carmo Lift” in the Baixa district.

Originally created as a means of transport for city dwellers in 1902, the 45-meter-tall iron elevator was purposefully positioned to link the downtown area with the Chiado district (sitting above Baixa on sloped streets).

How to ride the lift today? Now more of a landmark and tourist attraction, head to Rossio Square to journey from the bottom to the top, hopping inside one of two wooden cabins. If you’re already up top and want to ride the lift back down, it takes off from Largo do Carmo.

(Built to fit only 29 people maximum per ride, don’t be surprised if there’s a queue.)

Jousting above the city streets, enjoy the views of the heart of downtown, sweeping over the waterfront too.

Around the bottom entrance are plenty of branded department stores, like Zara and Mango, for a round of shopping afterward as well as loads of local cafes.

7 – Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, Lisbon

Unlike many of the other museums and galleries in Lisbon, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum was designed and built just to house the British-Armenian art collector’s personal acquisitions — of which Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian acquired more than 6,000 items.

Born in Istanbul, the businessman and avid art connoisseur arrived in Lisbon circa 1942 where he remained until his passing in 1955. Traveling the world extensively, his collections reflected his global exploits, obtaining most of his pieces along the way.

Notable artists whose work you can see at Calouste Gulbenkian include art by Monet, Degas, Rubens, Van Dyck, Renoir, Boucher, Manet, and Guardi, among others.

Marvel over ancient Greek coins, an Assyrian low-relief dating to 859 BCE, Chinese porcelain, sculptural works of the Renaissance, 18th-century French tapestries, manuscripts from the 12th century, and jewels and glass pieces from the master René Jules Lalique.

The galleries inside the museum are divided into categories, displaying around 1,000 artworks at a time. These include Egyptian Art, Greco-Roman Art, Mesopotamia Art, Eastern Islamic Art, Armenian Art, Far Eastern Art, Paintings, Decorative Arts Sculpture, Art of the Book, and work by René Lalique.

  • Calouste Gulbenkian Museum tickets & tours

8 – Boat tour on the Tagus River

Tagus River, Lisbon

A pivotal key to the Portuguese Golden Age, a port entrance welcoming travelers, explorers, and immigrants from around the world and forming a natural protection against the Atlantic Ocean; the Tagus River is emblematic of Lisbon.

Stretching on for 1,007 kilometers, a whopping 275 of this runs through Portugal, and the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula starts flowing from Spain, emptying into the Portuguese capital.

The city is located on the river’s northern bank, with the 25 de Abril Bridge connecting the inner city to the opposite side of Rio Tagus (as it’s known in Portuguese).

There are many different ways to explore the Tagus River and appreciate its value, from hop-on-hop-off boats to biking along its riverfront.

For the most authentic experience, join a boating excursion, taking in the sights of Lisbon from out on the water. Veer underneath the suspension bridge, and admire landmarks like the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Cristo Rei statue. There are also special sunset sails for a romantic touch.

  • boat tours in Lisbon

Hot tip: Experience the best boat tours in Lisbon for an unforgettable journey along the coast, where the iconic Belém Tower and Monument to the Discoveries come into splendid view.

9 – Rua Augusta Arch

Rua Augusta Arch, Lisbon

It’s hard to miss the Rua Augusta Arch if you’re spending a lot of time in tourist-central Baixa, straddling the waterfront, and just down the way from the Santa Justa Lift.

The easiest way to reach the national landmark is by ambling down Rua Augusta pedestrian street after a round of shopping (closed off to vehicles, there are dozens of cafes, local restaurants, touristy boutiques, and curio-kiosks along here).

From Rua Augusta street, enter underneath Arco da Rua Augusta’s 11-meter-high ornamental arch, where various statues of different historical figures like Vasco da Gama are displayed on its columns.

Dating to the 19th century, the structure was erected to symbolize Portugal’s triumph and rebuild after a disastrous earthquake in 1755 and was built by 1875. Numerous creatives worked on the monument, from its primary structure to the statues decorating the archway.

Visitors can actually explore the tippy-top of the Rua Augusta Arch via an elevator, leading to a small room underneath the Rua Augusta Arch Clock (added to the structure in 1941). Here, learn more about its history, and the views over the city and the river from this viewpoint are sublime.

In the summertime, a pretty light show is projected onto the arch, illuminating the landmark at night.

  • Rua Augusta Arch tickets

10 – Praça do Comércio

Praça do Comércio, Lisbon

Walk in the footsteps where Portuguese royals once courted down at Praça do Comércio (known as the Terreiro do Paço, i.e. the Royal Yard) during the 16th century — part of the site of the former Royal Palace centuries ago.

Completely destroyed by the Great 1755 Earthquake as well, the grounds were reformed into a public square, in a somewhat pompous move, for welcoming voyagers into the city. Opening up onto the Tagus, for the longest time this point was used as the main port entrance to welcome ships entering the city, especially kings and Heads of State.

Located right in front of the Rua Augusta Arch, the pretty public square houses a bounty of riverfront cafes, restaurants, shops, and museums (including the interactive Lisbon Story Centre and the Museu da Cerveja beer museum and restaurant).

Pop into Lisbon’s oldest cafe, Martinho da Arcada, established in 1782; admire the 18th-century buildings around here; check out the grand statue of José I erected in 1755; and chill out on the marble steps of Cais das Colunas for sunset.

11 – Hop on hop off bus tour

hop on hop off bus tour in Lisbon

All aboard the yellow double-decker hop-on-hop-off bus in Lisbon, cruising around the city all day to major places of interest, from the Belém Tower to Marquês de Pombal Square, Centro Vasco da Gama, the National Tile Museum, Ajuda National Palace, the Time Out Market, and many other hotspots.

With the freedom at your fingertips to jump on and off the bus as many times as you please at any of its designated bus stops, first choose what type of pass you’d prefer.

Offered as a 24-hour, 48, 72, and even 98-hour ticket, there are various routes that the hop-on hop-off bus follows as well — so ensure you enquire about this part prior.

For example, the Red Line explores the Belém area (some stops include the National Museum of Ancient Art and the Monument to the Discoveries), the Blue Line starts around the Oriente Station (stops include the Lisbon Oceanarium and Casino Lisboa) and the Green line focuses on the places around the São Jorge Castle.

Both the Orange and Yellow Lines travel around the Cascais district stopping by outer city locales like Jerónimos Monastery, Praia do Guincho and Carcavelos beach, and the town of Estoril.

Tickets also include free access to the Santa Justa Lift, the city funiculars, and the trams.

  • hop on hop off bus tours in Lisbon

12 – Monument to the Discoveries

Monument to the Discoveries, Lisbon

There are loads to learn about Lisbon’s rich past by simply investigating the monuments and landmarks littered around the city. The best part is it’s free to do so, like a history lesson that costs you nothing.

Commorerating the life of Prince Henry the Navigator (the first to scout out Azores, Madeira, and Cape Verde during his expeditions), the Monument to the Discoveries first shot up in 1940 just in time for the Portuguese World Exhibition and was constructed from ephemeral materials such as wood and plaster.

Standing opposite the Jerónimos Monastery, the 56-meter-tall structure was originally designed by sculptor Leopoldo de Almeida, but 20 years later Padrão dos Descobrimentos underwent a refurbishment to strengthen its infrastructure.

Now boasting concrete and rose-tinted Leiria stone masonry; an exhibition hall and auditorium were added, as well as easy-to-access viewpoints — follow a short flight of steps to a viewing platform in the middle of the monument.

Representing the bow of a ship, on either side are two ramps decorated with 32 of Portugal’s most symbolic soldiers, navigators, artists, cartographers, colonizers, and missionaries.

13 – Viewpoints

viewpoints in Lisbon

There’s no denying this fact; you’re treated with choices when it comes to epic viewpoints in a city like Lisbon, and thanks to its hilly positioning, the vistas are plentiful and from all avenues around town.

Overseeing pastel-colored buildings, the Tagus River, and the Alfama district, the Miradouro de Santa Luzia viewpoint is situated next door to the Santa Luzia church. This terrace is especially pretty at nighttime and favored by couples.

Another cute spot for panoramas of historic Alfama is from Miradouro das Portas do Sol.  With the river directly in front, expect all the hues of blue.

Spot the castle and the 25 de Abril Bridge over the Tagus from Miradouro da Graça in the Graça area, and from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte (one of the highest points in Lisbon) you can also observe the São Jorge Castle and the Igreja e Convento da Graça.

At the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara square look over to the left to scope the Castelo de São Jorge on the hillside, and there is a lovely little fountain in the middle adding touches of romanticism.

Overlooking Baixa and Avenida da Liberdade, the 18th-century Torel Garden was once part of a private mansion, opening to the public in the 60s.

14 – Church of Our Lady of Grace

Church of Our Lady of Grace, Lisbon

You don’t need to be a theologian to appreciate the Church of Our Lady of Grace, as fascinatingly, the convent was never used as a formal place of public worship within its 700-something years of existence!

Today, it stands as a gallery and museum space, hosting temporary exhibitions within its grand Baroque-style walls, and speaking of design styles, it’s a treat to explore the architectural front — a mixture of Mannerist and Rococo architecture.

Another structure unable to make it through the 1755 Quake, its initial 13th-century framework has been refurbished twice since. Containing 15 chapels, the convent grounds once belonged to the monks of the Order of Saint Augustine.

Built on the steepest hill in Lisbon, next door to the church is the Augusto Gil Garden boasting views of the famous Castle.

Fun fact: During Easter time, the convent’s cross with Jesus Christ on it is flagged down and carried through the capital’s streets (remember, Portugal is strongly Catholic).

15 – King Pedro IV Square

King Pedro IV Square, Lisbon

Amongst the influx of city squares to chill out at, the King Pedro IV Square is one of the busiest, right in the heart of Baixa, and thanks to its positioning, is frequented daily by hundreds of tourists and locals walking through.

Established during the 13th century, Rossio Square (as it’s known, but also goes by Praça do Rossio and Piazza Pedro IV), there is a monument here, the ‘Column of Pedro IV,’ erected in 1870, and a fountain in front of it.

Surrounding the square are dozens of authentic Portuguese restaurants and cafes, and the famous Café Nicola (established in 1779 by an Italian gentleman) is here too.

First called “Botequim do Nicola” back then, the cafe changed to its current name in 1929. Its iconic art-deco façade has drawn in crowds for decades, especially artists and writers.

Other noteworthy points of interest near Piazza Pedro IV include the D. Maria II National Theatre (founded in 1842) and the 19th-century Rossio Railway Station. Dating to the year 1887, the station is still in use.

16 – Tram 28

Tram 28, Lisbon

Constituting hundreds of (utterly picturesque) cobbled alleyways, what’s one of the best ways to journey through the narrow hard-to-reach streets of Lisbon? Even when it seems impossible, the iconic (and super historic) Tram 28 can make it through — specifically designed to fit these compact roads.

In operation since the early 1900s, once upon a time, the trolley bus system was the city’s main mode of transport, and the first yellow electric cart began chugging through Lisbon in 1901.

Originally boasting a 148-kilometer-long tram line, the Tram Line 28 was introduced in 1914 and it has been running ever since!

Today, there are around 50 of the yellow carts still in use, and the Tram 28 follows a seven-kilometer route through Graca, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela, starting at Martim Moniz Square and ending in the Campo de Ourique neighborhood.

The ride totals nearly two hours, moving at speeds of 50 kilometers per hour, and is one of the most authentic ways to explore the evolutionary capital.

  • Tram 28 tours in Lisbon

17 – Pastéis de Belém

Pastéis de Belém, Lisbon

If there’s one quintessential Portuguese food you just have to try, it’s got to be a pastel de nata — a deliciously creamy, hot egg custard pastry tart, and when it’s done right, it is the perfect balance of sweetness.

Stop everything you’re doing and head directly to Pastéis de Belém , we repeat…

Serving locals since 1837, you best believe that these are the best in the business, after all, this very confectionery shop is the originator of the sweet treat.

Here’s how it all began: There was once a sugar cane refinery built next door to the Jeronimos Monastery in Belém with a small shop operating out of it. When the monastery was shut down, a monk from the abbey decided to bake up these particular pastries to sell for an income for the Hieronymites Monastery (as it’s also known).

He called them “Pastéis de Belém” and after much success from local buyers, the refinery’s outer buildings began baking the pastries full-time.

Sticking to this secret recipe ever since, there’s nothing quite like savoring a bite of the OG pastel .

  • food tours in Lisbon

Read more: 18 Best Food Tours in Lisbon Sampling Pastéis de Nata, Grilled Sardines, and More

18 – Bica Funicular

Bica Funicular, Lisbon

Known as the Bica Funicular, the Elevador da Bica, and the Ascensor da Bica, don’t confuse this mustard yellow mode of transport with the city trams, and this guy has been driving through the streets of Lisbon for decades before the trams began.

Another alternative for climbing the hills of Lisbon, the Bica began operations in 1892 wielding a water counterbalance system to get the cart up and down the elevated roads. Then progressing to steam power four years later, it turned electric in 1924 and has maintained this way since.

Running daily, there are two ways to board the Bica — now, the funicular only drives between Largo do Calhariz and Rua de São Paulo streets, propelling its way up Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo. There are only two funiculars, each moving in opposite directions.

You can catch the ride from the bottom to the top, or vice versa, lapping up the charming scenery that the Bica area has to offer. The road is lined with old-school buildings and quaint shop fronts and gives you a real sense of Lisbon a century ago.

19 – Luís de Camões Square

Luís de Camões Square, Lisbon

If you’re in need of some creative inspiration, perhaps a gander at one of Portugal’s greatest poets (Luís Vaz de Camões) will give you the motivation you need.

Cast in bronzed form, a four-meter-tall statue depicts the author poised proudly on a pedestal nearly eight meters high. He clutches a copy of his poem, The Lusiads . Surrounding the main figurine are a collection of smaller statues, each one a prominent head of Portuguese culture or literature during the Age of Discoveries.

The statue is located within Luís de Camões Square (also known as Praça de Luís de Camões) where it has stood since 1867. Before it became a public square, the space housed a grand palace and so the area around here is an attractive one.

Situated in vibey Chiado, this plaza oversees Igreja da Encarnação (dating to the 17th century) and Igreja do Loreto (built in 1518) churches.

If not this master, then maybe taking a seat next to another acclaimed writer, Fernando Pessoa sitting down at a table next to an empty chair will spark your creativity. This statue is found in front of the famous A Brasileira cafe where the poet used to idle away his days. The cafe is right by Luís de Camões Square.

20 – National Coach Museum

National Coach Museum, Lisbon

From royal riding school to a 20th-century museum, the National Coach Museum is interesting, insightful, and educational.

Housing one of the most extensive collections of antiquated horse-drawn carriages from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, when the exhibition space first opened in 1905, it became the world’s very first museum dedicated to these vintage coaches.

Comprising personal collections used by different royals (including coaches, berlins, and cabriolets), the museum grew over time, and in 1911, it changed titles to the National Coach Museum.

Growing in success, by 1944, the exhibition space had to be extended once more, and then yet again in 2015, this time round, moving to an entirely new building location.

Featuring permanent and temporary exhibits, meander through the main hall where the carriages are on full display, and there is a workshop here too that restores the carts to their former glory.

Apart from its main collections, there are also other equestrian-related items to view like riding uniforms and harnesses.

21 – Sintra

Sintra, Portugal

Feel worlds away in magical Sintra, a fairytale-looking land that has lured kings, queens, writers, and artists for centuries, from author Hans Christian Andersen to composer Richard Strauss to poet Lord Byron.

In the 21st century, a swarm of celebs have stayed at the famous Hotel Tivoli Palácio de Seteais in Sintra including Johnny Depp, Madonna, Mick Jagger, and Brad Pitt. The once Neoclassic grand palace turned 5-star hotel isn’t the only royal abode, with four others to explore plus many other lavish buildings and landmarks.

Seen from far and wide, the colorful Pena Palace designed in primary yellows and reds was built on the top of a hill overseeing the town below and is utterly mesmerizing. A great example of Romanticism, appreciate its architecture and enjoy a walk through its forested Parque da Pena. The Monserrate Palace is also another triumph of this style to explore.

Swapping styles, take a tour of the Rococo-influenced Queluz Palace built between 1747 to 1789 where members of the monarch lived during the 18th century.

In the heart of Sintra’s town is Portugal’s oldest-surviving palace, the National Palace of Sintra . Its earliest foundations date to the 12th century and it boasts a mix of architectural styles; Gothic, Manueline, Moorish, and Mudéjar.

Unlike the rest, the Castle of the Moors is a castle, not a palace, occupied by the Moors during the 8th century.

Plastered across advertisements of the town, the 16th-century Quinta da Regaleira draws in crowds with its spiral staircase covered in mossy greens, romantic gardens, and medieval turret.

  • Sintra tours from Lisbon

See also: Pena Palace Sintra tickets price – complete guide

22 – Sanctuary of Christ the King

Sanctuary of Christ the King, Lisbon

Whether you’re driving back into Lisbon from the beachside or peering over the Tagus River, the 110-meter-tall Sanctuary of Christ the King towers over the city.

If the statue seems familiar, that’s because it was inspired by Brazil’s ‘Christ the Redeemer’ statue in Rio de Janeiro when the then-Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon, Manuel Gonçalves Cerejeira traveled to the country’s capital back in 1934.

25 years later, Portugal’s very own rendition was erected, a symbol of the country’s strong Catholic faith.

Called the Santuário de Cristo Rei in Portuguese, the monument took 10 years to build, with the first foundations laid down in 1949.

Inaugurated by Pope John XXIII, the monument forms part of a complex of buildings centered around the shrine and religion. There is a reception hall to welcome visitors, a hall dedicated to the Pope containing oil paintings and religious relics, the Our Lady of Peace Chapel, and the Pavilion of the Rosary, among others.

Its most special feature? An elevator transports visitors up the Sanctuary of Christ the King, and from here, the vistas stretch out for roughly 20 kilometers over Lisboa.

23 – Casa dos Bicos

Casa dos Bicos, Lisbon

It’s pretty hard to miss the Casa dos Bicos when traversing through the Alfama district — simply look out for the building front, with a façade decorated in a series of cemented spikey molds sticking out of the walls.

(Its name literally translates to “House of the Spikes/Beaks.”)

Home to a branch of the Museum of Lisbon networks, as well as the José Saramago Foundation, it’s a fabulous way to expose yourself to Lisbon’s 16th-century architecture and interestingly, it was one of the buildings that made it out of the Great Lisbon Earthquake.

Built as a residential home around 1522, count the 1,225 diamond-shaped stones out front and then head inside to the archaeological center on the ground floor. This space highlights excavated ruins dug up in 2010 spanning centuries, some of which are more than 2,000 years old!

The upper floors are dedicated to the José Saramago Foundation where Nobel Prize-winning Portuguese writer José Saramago’s personal library is kept.

24 – Palace of Ajuda

Palace of Ajuda, Lisbon

After the 1755 Earthquake destroyed much of the city and its ancient buildings in its aftermath, it was decided to build a new palace for the royal family away from the river and up on the hill in Ajuda above the Belém area.

Construction began in 1795 but was abruptly stopped when the royal family fled Portugal for Brazil. This resulted in an incomplete estate which was eventually converted into a public museum.

During a visit to the palace, roam through its lavish rooms and hallways dripping in artwork — from paintings to sculptures — and age-old antique furnishings. Some of the rooms to check out include the Throne Room, the Banquet Room, the Audience Room, and the King João IV Room.

In 2021, additional upgrades were made to the western wing, giving it a modernized feel. Inside this three-leveled Royal Treasure Museum, the crown jewels are on display!

Not to miss either; the Ajuda Botanical Gardens is opposite the palace. The country’s first botanical garden dates to 1768.

25 – Oceanário de Lisboa

Oceanário de Lisboa

The ocean has always been an integral part of this city, from its port-centric endeavors back in the day to its pretty coastline home to beach bars and restaurants in the 21st century.

Designed and built incorporating 5 million liters of seawater, the Oceanário de Lisboa is one of the biggest indoor aquariums in Europe.

Categorized into four marine habitats that magnify the animals’ original, go and show our magnificent marine creatures some love. The space comprises two main buildings; the Edifício dos Oceanos (Oceans Building) and the newer Edifício do Mar (Sea Building) and both are connected by a forecourt.

Within the forecourt area are educational exhibitions and other learning materials all related to Deep Blue. There are also temporary exhibitions hosted at the aquarium, with guided and specialized kids’ tours available.

From fish to amphibians, mammals, invertebrates, and water birds, there are loads to see here. Wave hello to cute penguins and sea otters, spot the unique crocodile newt, gasp over the blacktip reef shark in the flesh, and be dazzled by starfish and the dancing aggregating anemone.

  • Oceanário de Lisboa tickets

26 – Vasco da Gama Tower

Vasco da Gama Tower, Lisbon

Instead of climbing the hills to take in the views of Lisbon, make your way to the Vasco da Gama Tower and fly 145 meters into the sky for 360-degree vistas of the city, the Tagus River, and the famed Vasco da Gama Bridge — the second longest bridge in all of Europe!

Constructed as a soaring skyscraper back in 1998, guests can ride to the top of the tower in 55 seconds via an elevator. At the top is an observation deck-meets-bar; BABYLON 360º.

Order a cocktail inspired by the spice trade and at each window here, you can scan a unique QR code to learn more about Lisbon’s important landmarks and the country’s vast history.

Above the observation deck, it gets even better on the dining front. Located at the top of the tower is the one-star Michelin restaurant, Fifty Seconds .

Right near Torre Vasco da Gama, you can catch a cable car ride between the tower area and the Oceanário de Lisboa, and the structure now forms part of the fancy 5-star Myriad Hotel .

27 – Centro Cultural de Belém

Berardo Collection Museum, Lisbon

If it’s not your first time in Lisbon, it’s well worth knowing that the former Berardo Collection Museum of modern art officially shut its doors for good in January 2023.

In its place, the brand new Centro Cultural de Belém (CCB) opened in its place, however, the center still hosts a permanent collection of art from the 20th century titled the ‘Berardo Collection.’

The gallery is housed on the second floor, flaunting over 1,000 works by some of the Masters, from Picasso to Marcel Duchamp, Piet Mondrian, Salvador Dalí, René Magritte, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, the list goes on and on!

It covers art styles such as Cubism, Surrealism, and Dadaism. Temporary exhibitions are held here, showcasing modern-day artists.

Apart from the art, the CCB center boasts concert halls and an auditorium where performances are held like musical concerts, shows, and plays. There is also a dedicated Reading Room (on the ground floor) for literary enthusiasts, as well as a handful of on-site restaurants, cafes, and shops.

  • Berardo Collection Museum tickets & tours

28 – Lisbon Zoo

Lisbon Zoo

Established in 1884, if you’re an animal advocate you’ll be delighted to know that the Lisbon Zoo prides itself on being much more than a typical “zoo” and works at lengths on the animal conservation front!

Undergoing complete renovations and upgrades to provide a clean and safe space for creatures big and small, there are over 2,000 furry, scaled and feathered friends that call the zoo home. The park even has its own Veterinary Hospital, deemed one of the best in Europe.

Spaced according to the different animals’ natural habitats; mammals, reptiles, birds, and invertebrates are separated into various environments.

These zones include Dolphin Bay, Pelicans, the Enchanted Forest, Reptile House, Temple of the Primates, Iberian lynx Grove, Valley of the Tigers, Savana MEO, and the Children’s Farm.

A super cool attraction here is the zoo’s cable car and the 20-minute ride soars above the park grounds and animals!

29 – 25 de Abril Bridge

25 de Abril Bridge, Lisbon

Introducing the longest suspension bridge in Europe and the world’s 46th longest suspension bridge; it’s the 25 de Abril Bridge spanning 2,277 meters from the city of Lisbon, over the Tagus River, and connecting the capital center to the Almada municipality on the coast side.

Made up of two levels, the upper part is where motor vehicles drive over, and underneath is a double-track railway.

Erected between 1962 and 1966, the overpass was originally named the Salazar Bridge, but its name changed on 25 April 1974 — hence its current title.

Constituting six lanes on the upper level, it sort of sounds like you’re on a Formula 1 track as you transit from one side to the other (which you’ll need to do if you’re on your way to the beach).

As you cross over, the Tagus River greets you on either side and if the bridge looks familiar it’s because it was designed by the same engineers behind the San Francisco Bridge. Also red in color, the two look strikingly similar.

30 – Lisboa Story Centre

Lisboa Story Centre

Walking through the Rua Augusta Arch and onto Praça do Comércio, you’ll come across the Lisboa Story Centre — as the name implies, this is a venue that’s dedicated to the telling and recapturing of the history of Lisbon, done so in an interactive way.

The center is divided into six spaces and five of these exhibition areas are located on the ground floor, with the sixth on the first floor.

Areas one through five are set up in chronological order, designed as an immersive experience that transports visitors through time, from earliest civilizations to modern Lisboa.

Area 1 is all about ‘Myths and Realities’; Area 2 explores ‘Lisbon: Global City’; Area 3 focuses on ‘November 1, 1755, All-Saints’ Day’; Area 4 is titled ‘The Vision of Pombal’ and Area 5 centers on ‘The Square: Politics and Pleasure.

The final exhibition space displays a virtual scale model of the city, detailing its architectural developments over the centuries as well as some of the most important historical city events.

It takes roughly one hour to get through the entire “storybook” yet the time flies by as you’re immersed by digital illustrations and projections, simulators, and virtual animation. All in all, there are 17 chapters of Lisbon’s history that you’ll cover during the experience.

31 – National Tile Museum

National Tile Museum, Lisbon

Pretty, embellished, and decorative … One of Lisbon’s most captivating facets is its colorful patterned tiles decorating most of the buildings around the city. If you’re into aesthetics, it will capture your attention immediately — and these mosaics make eye-catching photo backdrops!

It all began after the Lisbon Earthquake in 1755. As an alternative to rebuilding much of the city and adorning it in artworks and fancy facades, the iconic blue and white Portuguese azulejo tiles were employed, and voila , the rest is history.

Dating long before that to the 13th century, learn interesting facts like this and more at the National Tile Museum , including the origins and evolution of the artwork.

Set up inside an age-old convent, Madre de Deus Convent , dating to 1509, have a gander over the tiles in person and be amazed by the variations between the centuries (the oldest collection is from the 1400s).

When the church itself was built, it was adorned with these tiles, and so its features also form part of the Museu Nacional do Azulejo’s collections.

It’s one of the most unique and authentic museums to see, deeming it one of the best tourist attractions in Lisbon.

32 – Carmo Convent

Carmo Convent, Lisbon

Architecture aficionados; the Neo-Gothic Carmo Convent is really intriguing all thanks to the grandeur of its size as well as its unfinished naves opening up towards the heavens.

A popular space to hold events, for example, weddings, the entire structure is beautiful in an ancient kind of way and its abandoned constructions give it an artsy vibe.

Erected in 1389 on a hill sitting opposite the São Jorge Castle, the original church was mostly destroyed in the Lisbon Earthquake. Formerly one of the grandest convents, it was decided to rebuild the church following the 1755 event in its new Neo-Gothic style.

Reconstruction was halted in 1834 and it was then decided not to continue, hence the incomplete naves.

Today, Carmo Convent houses the Carmo Archaeological Museum and is home to the Association of Portuguese Archaeologists. When the Museu Arqueológico do Carmo was first established, it focused on gathering pieces of archeology, including architecture and fragments of Portuguese monuments.

Adding to this over the years, now there are more excavated items to explore such as a collection of Roman epigraphy and a collection of pre-Columbian ceramics and mummies.

33 – Time Out Market Lisboa

Time Out Market Lisboa

Consider yourself an avid traveler? Chances are you’ve heard of Time Out, a global media and hospitality company established in 1968. Covering all things culture and social across countries, its very own Time Out Market Lisboa was created in 2014, and presented by Time Out Portugal.

Designed as a massive modern gourmet foodie market featuring some of the city’s top restaurants, bars, and shops, the space in which it is set up has always been a marketplace, originally home to the 19th-century Mercado da Ribeira Nova.

Spotlighting 26 restaurants, eight bars, and over 10 stores over two levels, it’s a feast for the senses. There is also a small section of the market where vendors sell fresh produce and flowers.

Acting as a food-centric locale, there is even a cookery academy inside the food hall led by top chefs. Discover cooking classes, workshops, live demonstrations, and special kids’ programs.

34 – Telecabine Lisbon

Telecabine Lisbon

Gliding over the Tagus River, with views of the capital city and iconic landmarks in plain sight — from the Vasco da Gama Bridge to the Parque das Nações area — a ride on the Telecabine Lisbon is not to be missed!

Dangling 30 meters high in the sky, enjoy an eight to 12-minute journey on the city’s Nations Park Gondola Lift, veering from one side to the next via a 1,230-meter-long cable line.

The South terminal is situated next door to the Lisbon Oceanarium (on Passeio de Neptuno), and the North terminal is next to the Vasco da Gama Tower and the Telecabine ticket offices are located here.

Traveling at speeds of four meters per second, the gondolas can fit a maximum of eight passengers per carrier, perfect for large groups.

Sights to look out for during the ride include the Pavilhão de Portugal (Pavilion of Portugal), the Sao Gabriel and Sao Rafael towers, and the Altice Arena.

35 – Mãe d’Água das Amoreiras Reservoir

Mãe d’Água das Amoreiras Reservoir, Lisbon

Established between 1746 and 1748, entering the mystical Mãe d’Água das Amoreiras Reservoir is quite magical, to say the least, granting the same feeling as if walking into ancient Roman baths.

The 18th-century reservoir is located at the end of the Águas Livres Aqueduct (in Praça das Amoreiras) and was built to help carry the water flowing in and out of the aqueduct into the city of Lisbon. Although this is no longer its function, the site is quite special.

Ornately designed (by Hungarian architect Carlos Mardel), the reservoir complex accommodates a 7.5-meter-deep water tank and multiple fountains. The inside was envisioned similarly to that of a church hall, with water spouting from the mouth of a dolphin in the center.

Its vaulted cupola ceiling is supported by four columns, and these columns form the foundations steadying a terrace. From here, enjoy gorgeous views over the capital.

36 – Eduardo VII Park

Eduardo VII Park, Lisbon

Grab a book, pack a picnic, and give your weary feet a rest at the biggest park in central Lisbon, i.e. the Eduardo VII Park.

Differentiating its green space from the rest, the park is actually built on a slope — no surprises there from hilly Lisbon — and runs downhill, with its bottom boundary in front of the Marquis of Pombal Square.

Opening to the public circa 1949, it has an interesting makeup with manicured symmetrical box hedging zig-zagging down the bank. From the top, lap up the views of the city center from an elevated perspective.

Key features are the park’s two estufas , one which is a hothouse containing exotic plants and the second (the Estufa Fria greenhouse) houses tropical species, palm trees, cacti, and a few ponds.

In honor of Portuguese athlete and Olympic Games hero, Carlos Lopes, a sports pavilion was brought into the grounds in 1929 (on the eastern side) and concerts and other events are held here.

Here in June? Check out the annual book fair conducted inside Eduardo VII Park.

37 – Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT)

Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology, Lisbon

From specialized guided tours (either focusing on aspects of architecture, art, technology, and ecology) to science or robotics workshops to ever-changing exhibitions on display; there are loads to see, do, and investigate at the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT) .

As its name suggests, the MAAT is dedicated to all things art, architecture, and technology, shining a light on contemporary visual art, new media, and science. Adding to its general ambiance is also the museum’s location — built inside of a repurposed power station from the year 1908.

Utilizing both indoor and outdoor space, this large museum is set up between two buildings, both harboring its exhibitions, events, and talks.

There are two permanent installations to discover: the ‘Central Tejo’ sculpture by artist  Pedro Cabrita Reis (found at the pier beside the power station building) and the ‘Placed on Either Side of the Light’ piece, created by artist Lawrence Weiner in 1999.

To find the MAAT, head down to the riverfront in Belém where the complex was constructed, sitting on the waterside.

38 – Pavilhão do Conhecimento – Ciência Viva

Pavilhão do Conhecimento Ciência Viva, Lisbon

Moms and dads listen up; if you’re traveling to Lisbon with the little ones, they will absolutely love Pavilhão do Conhecimento – Ciência Viva — a super cool science center with tons of interactive features to get involved in, shows and exhibitions.

The building in which the Ciência Viva Science Center is located is at the Pavilhão do Conhecimento dos Mares (The Pavilion of Knowledge of the Seas).

(This geometrically-shaped modern-looking building was erected specifically for the 1998 Lisbon World Exposition where the theme was “The Oceans, a Heritage for the Future.” After the World Fair, the pavilion was kept open and the center was renamed to simply the ‘Pavilion of Knowledge.’)

Today, there are plenty of cool immersive spaces to explore within.

Divided into ‘Tinkering’ and ‘Maker,’ see what your hands can create at the Dóing: Enlarged Workshop . Deep dive into five thematic areas at The Explore exhibition containing 40 interactive modules.

Other areas to discover include ‘Tcharan! Circus of Science Experience’; the Fishanario; Water – An Unfiltered Exhibition; and the Hit And Run Exhibits where you can ride a flying bike or sit in a shrinking chair!

 39 – Fronteira Palace

Fronteira Palace, Lisbon

As pretty as a peach; the ornate Fronteira Palace is super romantic and a perfect option for those looking for the best tourist attractions in Lisbon for couples.

What makes it stand out apart from its architecture? Number one is its gorgeous gardens and number two, the grounds contain the biggest collection of 17th-century azulejos , i.e. traditional Portuguese tiles.

Modeled in 1670 by one of Portugal’s noble families, the manor has remained pretty much unchanged and in fact, Palácio dos Marqueses de Fronteira is still the residence of the original Mascarenhas family. Therefore, the palace is a living museum.

As captivating as the interiors are, its majestic garden is a heart-stealer featuring ponds, sculptures, fountains, manicured hedges, and panels of azulejos decorating the grounds. Points of interest around here include the Knights Lake, Kings Gallery, its five fountains, the Venus Garden and Casa do Fresco (the garden grotto).

Now a National Monument, there are two tours available. One ventures through the manor house, and the other focuses on a tour of the gardens.

40 – Águas Livres Aqueduct

Águas Livres Aqueduct, Lisbon

Here’s one for our engineers and anyone fascinated by the world of hydraulics; the Águas Livres Aqueduct dates as far back as 1731! It’s crazy cool to see how these artificial waterway systems were constructed in the 18th century and designed in a Baroque style…

Erected between 1731 and 1799, the conduit initially collected and transported water to the capital city which passed through five municipalities: Amadora, Lisbon, Odivelas, Oeiras, and Sintra, stretching 58 kilometers long.

The Main Aqueduct begins at Sintra’s Mãe de Água Velha (known as the Old Reservoir) and runs for 14 kilometers until it reaches the end reservoir, Mãe de Água das Amoreiras .

As one of the last grand classical Roman aqueducts to be constructed, one of the most impressive features of this National Monument (garnering this status in 1910) is the section in the Alcântara Valley where the pointed arches were designed in different sizes.

The Water Museum of Lisbon offers tours of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, specifically this part of the Alcântara Valley.

41 – Fado Museum

Fado Museum, Lisbon

Did you know that a ‘fado’ refers to a Portuguese “sad” song and the melody is usually led by traditional mandolins or guitars?

Keep an eye open for the pink-pastel exterior building entrance of the Fado Museum and get more clued up on all things surrounding the genre — musicians will really appreciate this one!

Established in 1998, this museum uncovers the history of fado, originating on the streets of Lisbon, and shines a light on the music, from artists to instruments.

On display are endless posters, music scores, instruments, performance uniforms, photograms, trophies, licenses, contracts, pictures, and more, all once belonging to musicians, composers, instrument manufacturers, scholars, researchers, and authors.

Its permanent exhibition pays an ode to fado, chronicling its inception from the 19th century through to modern times. There is also a collection of fine art where the subject matter has been fado, for example, “O Fado” by José Malhoa (created in 1910).

The museum also hosts temporary displays, guided tours, classes, and workshops, like learning how to play the Portuguese guitar.

42 – São Bento Palace

São Bento Palace, Lisbon

A former monastery turned House of Parliament building; São Bento Palace is a fine work of Neoclassical architecture, from its grandiose columns to the pediment to the four sophisticated statues on pedestals at its entrance, symbolic of Portugal’s ‘Prudence,’ ‘Strength,’ ‘Justice’ and ‘Temperance.’

Inspired by the classical architecture of ancient Greece and Rome, the Portuguese Parliament was first constructed as a convent in 1598 belonging to the monks of the Benedictine Order. Yet it wasn’t until it was reconstituted to the seat of the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic in 1834 that it underwent its makeover, converting to its all-white exterior.

Admire the building from the outside, or when there are temporary art exhibitions hosted inside you’ll have the chance to cherish the interiors. Free guided tours (by appointment only) are available on the last Saturday of every month.

During these tours, you’ll be shown the garden and have the opportunity to squizz out the Prime Minister’s official residence, but the mansion is closed off inside to the public.

43 – Tropical Botanical Garden

Tropical Botanical Garden, Lisbon

Take some time out in nature and enjoy being swarmed by forests of greenery at the Tropical Botanical Garden .

From gigantic Ficus macrophylla (also known as Australian banyan) to spikey Norfolk Island pine trees to Chinese Eucommia ulmoides (used for herbal medicine) and Ginkgo biloba; there are over 600 plant species growing inside the five-hectare park.

Most of the trees and plants originate from tropical and subtropical regions around the world, with certain rare kinds kept here too, and there are a few greenhouses to walk through.

Open to the public since 1906, the area where the garden is now set up once belonged to the Portuguese nobility of the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. There are still remnants of buildings from these eras located within the park, as well as marble sculptures.

For example, keep your eyes peeled for the hidden Casa do Fresco, dating to the 17th century as well as the Calheta Palace from the 1600s.

When Jardim Botanico Tropical (as it’s called in Portuguese) was initially established, it was designed to focus on agriculture in Portugal’s colonies primarily Cape Verde, Mozambique, Angola, Macau, São Tomé, East Timor, and Guinea-Bissau. It was originally titled the ‘Colonial Garden.’

44 – Restauradores Square

Restauradores Square, Lisbon

For those travelers with limited time in Lisbon but are still dead set on investigating plenty of iconic landmarks and monuments, a great place to start exploring is Restauradores Square.

Playing a special part in the country’s history, the plaza was established in celebration of the end of the Iberian Union in Portugal (lasting from 1580 to 1640).

In the heart of the Praça dos Restauradores is a striking white obelisk, and two bronze statues are placed on either side of the 30-meter-tall monument, symbolizing Victory and Freedom from the Iberian Union.

Other dazzling points of interest include the Foz Palace timelined to the 18th and mid-19th centuries with its interiors inspired by the Palace of Versailles in Paris. It even has its own Mirror Room and every so often, guided tours inside are available.

With its Art Deco pink façade, don’t miss the Eden Cinema either and the teatro opened in 1931. No longer a theater, an aparthotel occupies the building.

Located in Baixa, Restauradores Square is in a prime position with plenty of things to do and see around the square, and dozens of cafes and local eateries on the streetsides, including Lisbon’s Hard Rock Cafe .

45 – Navy Museum and Navy Planetarium

Navy Museum, Lisbon

As we’ve established, Lisbon’s harbor (and the ocean) has always played a major role and holds much importance over the city.

There are two museums in particular that seriously hone in on the country’s exploits and navigations out at sea, housed in separate buildings next to one another by the Jeronimos Monastery.

From nautical instruments and charts to real sailing boats, scaled-down models of ships, artillery employed on war vessels, and everyday items used on the Merchant Marine; there’s a whole sea of maritime-related artifacts, relics, and life-size vessels to observe at the Navy Museum .

Among its collection of 23,000 pieces, 17,000 of these are found inside the west wing of the Monastery, including an actual wooden figurine of Archangel Raphael from Vasco da Gama’s travels to India as well as model ships from the Age of Discovery — the Maritime Museum (as it’s also known) is spread between two buildings.

Founded in 1962, there are permanent exhibitions set up in the west wing of Jeronimos Monastery and inside the Pavilhão Das Galeotas building where once-used galley boats, rowing vessels, seaplanes, and more are showcased.

The Navy Planetarium opened up in 1965 and has been modified a few times since to keep up with modern technologies.

It features 32-star projectors for sightseeing the Milky Way, the constellations and nebulae; an observatory; a library, and a gallery that often hosts themed exhibits.

46 – Avenida da Liberdade

Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon

Louis Vuitton, Miu Miu, Gucci, Cartier, Prada, and Burberry … Lisbon’s upmarket and stylish Avenida da Liberdade is lined with some of the biggest exclusive designers on either side of its tree-filled center strip.

Inspired by Paris’ Champs Elysees, the 1.1-kilometer-long boulevard runs downhill, from the Marquis of Pombal Square toward the Baixa district, ending at Restauradores Square.

With its cobbled pavements and main promenade dotted with tall trees providing shade, park benches, and cute kiosks selling coffee, drinks, and snacks; it remains a super affluent area (dozens of luxury hotels, fancy restaurants, and upscale townhouses surround the avenue).

Considered one of the “chicest streets in Lisboa” there are many fabulous restaurants and bars in the area too. Top spots include Cervejaria Liberdade, JNcQUOI Asia and JNcQUOI Avenida, SEEN by Olivier, Red Frog Speakeasy, Fábrica Coffee Roasters, and Sítio Valverde.

During public holidays, the streets surrounding Avenida Da Liberdade are closed off to traffic and the avenue becomes a thoroughfare bustling with locals and tourists. Weekends also see a small flea market set up on the patterned strip.

47 – Rua Nova do Carvalho

Rua Nova do Carvalho, Lisbon

Trendily transforming the city’s former “Red Light District,” once you reach a road that’s pink in color instead of the usual black tar, you’re now entering Rua Nova do Carvalho — Lisbon’s nightlife hotspot!

Littered with ambient bars and a few clubs that guarantee a party, the Cais do Sodré neighborhood now heaves with tourists searching to extend their socializing into the early hours of the morning.

Nicknamed ‘Pink Street’ (for obvious reasons), some of the bars and clubs to grab a drink from or show off your dance moves are Pink Wine Point, 4 Caravelas, Espumantaria do Cais, Sol e Pesca, Menina e Moça Livraria-Bar and Musicbox.

Other areas closeby to Rua Nova do Carvalho that has a bustling nightlife include the bars along Rua da Boavista (check out Social B) and the Bairro Alto neighborhood.

48 – LX Factory

LxFactory, Lisbon

Accommodating over 50 restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and boutiques; foodies and shopaholics you’ll love LxFactory .

Headed up in one of the city’s industrial areas in a converted factory complex, the entire set has a real urban-cool atmosphere. Home to businesses in the fashion, advertising, multimedia, architecture, music, and art industries, events are often held here relative to these cultural fields, such as the biannual Open Day event.

Established in 2008, the unique services that the complex offers include a photography studio, a pole dancing studio for a fitness workout, and massage therapies.

Mouth-watering eateries to wine and dine include Matchamama (a fusion of Peruvian and Asian cuisine), Taberna 1300, Messe Pizzaria, the LX Brewery, Landeau Chocolate, and Ni Michi for a taste of the Amazon.

On the shopping-end; pop into Etnik Spring, Brandz, Petit Love, Kare Design, and the Art Studio Lisbon By Jo Seixas & Grebism.

49 – Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto, Lisbon

When you think about Lisbon, the Bairro Alto neighborhood is the epitome of all the reasons why people fall head over heels for Portugal’s capital, boasting all the iconic scenes you dream about seeing …

Rows of colorful houses lined on cobbled streets, vintage funiculars chugging up the hills, street art plastering the walls, quaint vistas of local living, and kooky bars; this bohemian-inspired district is everything .

Home to a splurge of hostels and affordable accommodation, the streets are abuzz with travelers from all walks of life, but when the tourists go out to explore the city during the day, the area quietens down … until dusk falls that is.

Then, when the stars come out to play so do the masses in search of a night out on the town.

Points of interest to check out surrounding Lisboa’s first-ever planned district (its gridded streets were set in 1513) are the Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint, Igreja de Santa Catarina and Igreja de São Roque churches, Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo street and its Bica Funicular and the Convento de São Pedro de Alcântara.

50 – Fado shows

fado show in Lisbon

Now that you’re clued up on Fado after a visit to the Fado Museum, marvel over these traditional performances in person at a live Fado show!

Although the songs are considered quite melancholic, the meaning behind the compositions is centered on nostalgia, hope, and national pride.

Sticking to its authentic ways, these shows usually take place in a traditional and intimate Portuguese bar, and last between one to two hours, depending on where you’re watching.

Comprising both a female and male singer on vocals, the concert is accompanied by musos stringing a Portuguese and classical guitar.

Certain fado shows pay tribute to the famous fadista musician, Amália Rodrigues (who helped raise the music to popularity), whilst other musicians sing their own original tunes.

For something extra special (ideal for couples) book a fado and dinner show.

  • fado shows in Lisbon

Hot tip: Discover the best Fado shows in Lisbon , offering an intimate glimpse into the city’s traditional music scene in historic neighborhoods like Alfama.

How to get to Lisbon?

Flying into Lisbon? There is only one major international airport to arrive at; the Humberto Delgado Airport.

Eliminate some of the extra travel stresses by pre-booking airport transfers for when you touch down in the Portuguese capital city. By organizing your transport prior to arrival, all you have to worry about is collecting your luggage and dealing with passport control (if applicable).

Waiting for you with a sign holding your name on it is your private driver. Be whisked away in comfort and style in a private vehicle, arriving at your accommodation in no time.

Where to stay in Lisbon?

Add the cherry to your Lisbon trip by staying at some of the best hotels the city has to offer.

If you’re all about those fancy old-school, regal hotel vibes, check into the 5-star TURIM Boulevard Hotel , favored for its top-notch welcoming staff, fantastic breakfast, and location.

Modern and close to the Jeronimos Monastery, Wine & Books Lisboa Hotel is for all the trendsetters.

Boasting stylish rooms with lovely interiors and a gorgeous rooftop pool, book a night (or five) at Browns Avenue Hotel (also a 5-star accommodation).

Inspired by the beauties of the past, The Vintage Hotel & Spa is a beautiful 5-star stay offering super plush rooms as well as equipped with an indoor swimming pool.

Contemporary and decked in interesting art, expect the highest of standards from Sublime Lisboa .

The grounds and gardens of the 5-star Pestana Palace Lisboa Hotel are breathtaking, but it’s no surprise as the building is also a National Monument.

Another 5-star one to add to the list; EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel is a great one for families.

  • best hotels in Lisboa

Visiting Lisbon on a budget?

There’s nothing wrong with saving a few extra euros here and there — it just means more spending cash for shopping and eating out!

Consider one of the free walking tours in Lisbon , and there are plenty to choose from depending on what suits you best.

Pick an expedition that focuses on the history of the city, or opt for specialized endeavors that traverse around specific districts like Alfama, Belém, or even Sintra. Most walking tours last between two and three hours.

The Lisbon card is another alternative where you can purchase a 24, 48, or 72-hour pass granting you free access to 39 museums, landmarks, attractions, and even tram rides.

Where to go next?

What’s next up on your Portugal agenda? There are many other fun and unusual things to do in Lisbon for an extended holiday in the capital, or, opt to explore outside the city.

Situated three hours from Lisbon is the second-largest city in the country, and there are dozens of interesting things to do in Porto . Visit the famous Ribeira district, cruise down the UNESCO-recognised Douro River, enjoy a wine tour and tasting, or party the night away.

A little closer to Lisbon (just over two hours away); visiting botanical gardens, beautiful libraries, science museums, and antiquated towns are just some of the things to do in Coimbra .

Say hello to the Algarve in Portimão, a sleepy authentic coastal town 2.5 hours outside of Lisboa. Top things to do in Portimão include sampling local traditional foods from the area, exploring the Benagil Caves via boat tours, and idling away your time with endless beach days.

Also along the Algarve, Faro is both a haven for cultural and nature-filled expeditions and is two hours and 40 minutes from Lisbon.

Multi-day trips are great options for those with minimal time in Portugal, ranging from two to five-day adventures. Travel around the Algarve, or keep it closer to home and veer off around Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, Estoril, Óbidos, Nazaré, and Fátima, for example.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re into architecture, are a history fanatic, an art aficionado, or the type that loves learning and experiencing new things, these 50 best tourist attractions in Lisbon are not to be missed.

Is it not your first time in Lisboa? If you’ve visited before, what were your favorite sites to see or the landmarks that fascinated you the most? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments, we love to hear back from our readers.

Happy travels!

Inside the Travel Lab

The 10 Best Areas to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal

May 17, 2021

Vera Andrews

The best areas to stay in Lisbon Portugal

Discover the best areas to stay in Lisbon for first timers, couples and young families. And once you’ve done that, check out our Lisbon food guide.

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Table of Contents

The Best Areas to Stay in Lisbon

Terracotta tiles cascading down hillsides, grand neo-classical architecture, cafes spilling onto sun-kissed sidewalks… Lisbon is renowned equally for its beauty, its culture and its laid-back ambience.

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  • I’ve hand-picked useful travel gear and tools for you in my Amazon shop . Never leave home without a travel adapter or collapsible water bottle . I’d also recommend these soft ear plugs and a sleep mask .
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  • Use these packing cubes to make life so much easier on the road.
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The Best Places to Stay in Lisbon at a Glance

Where to stay in Lisbon? Try these boutique hotels:

  • The Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa – for central location and five star luxury.
  • Verride Palacio Santa Catarina – for 18th century seduction in Chiado.
  • Olissippo Lapa Palace – sub-tropical gardens overlooking the Tagus River
  • Pestana Palace Lisboa – housed in a former palace with swimming pools and spa.

The Best Areas of Lisbon at a Glance

The best area to stay in Lisbon depends on what you’re looking for. Here’s the lowdown…

  • Baixa – the best area in Lisbon for first timers.
  • Chiado – the best neighbourhood for families.
  • Alfama – the best area in Lisbon for couples
  • Bairro Alto – the best spot for nightlife
  • Principé Real – the best for LGBTQ+
  • Cais do Sodré – the best for hidden gems

Once overlooked on the main tourist trail, Lisbon is enjoying a renaissance among foreign visitors.  Europe’s budget airline boom put this old capital firmly on the map, attracting everyone from trendy young hipsters drawn for the nightlife, to cultural aficionados eager to soak up the architecture and skylines.

Like all major cities, Lisbon is a patchwork of neighbourhoods, all interconnected to make up a rich tapestry, but each offering its own unique charms and attractions. In this guide, we’ve picked out six of the best districts to stay in Lisbon, outlining the best of what each has to offer the would-be visitor.

Something to be sure of when visiting any city is to always have great travel insurance from a reputable brand such as Avanti Travel Insurance click here to find out more.

BAIXA: THE BEST AREA IN LISBON FOR FIRST TIMERS

Baixa is the bustling heart of Lisbon, the central administrative and commercial district stretching back in a broad rectangle from the waterfront. In a city famous for its hills, the name ‘Baixa’ or ‘low’ tells you that this is one of the few relatively flat areas to be found, sandwiched left and right by the steep hills of the Alfama and Bairro Alto districts. 

Like much of central Lisbon, Baixa was devastated by the 1755 earthquake. Responsibility for rebuilding the district fell to the Marques de Pombal, who set about creating a neoclassical gem – broad straight avenues lined by grand buildings, interspersed with stately plazas and parks, including Parque Eduardo. So famous has Pombal’s work become that it has even earned its own name, Pombaline architecture.

Today, Baixa is as much a tourist hotspot as it is a commercial centre, with bars, restaurants and hotels competing with shops and offices. The central location and transport links make this a great base for exploring the rest of the city – just jump on one of the numerous escalators up the hillsides! There are plenty of sights right on your doorstep, such as the stunning riverfront former royal park, the Praça do Comércio, and Rossio square with its famous train station. And you’ll be within walking distance of many other tourist attractions. This is as close to a “city centre” as Lisbon gets. 

Top tip: look out for the marvellous 19th century Santa Justa Elevador.

Portugal - Lisbon - Tivoli LIsbon Sky Bar

Avenida Liberdade: The Champs Élysées of Lisbon

Nicknamed the Champs Élysées of Lisbon, this broad, leafy avenue runs through Baixa to the Pombaline Parque Eduardo. One of my favourite places to stay is one of the most famous luxury hotels in Lisbon city centre, the grand Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa . It’s great for families because of its central location and perfect for couples, too, with its romantic eateries, rooftop bar, spa and sense of grandeur. It offers views over Lisbon’s skyline to the Tagus River and creative cocktails with a twist. Rooms are spacious with a clean, minimal style.

Rossio train station is just a five minute walk from the Tivoli and the closest metro station is Avenida. You can find the booking link for the Tivoli here. It’s one of the best places to stay in Lisbon.

CHIADO: THE BEST AREA IN LISBON FOR YOUNG FAMILIES

Chiado vies with Baixa as being considered the true centre of Lisbon, though it is more of a cultural hub than a commercial centre. Smaller, more compact and quainter than its larger neighbour, Chiado is where you will find a sizeable selection of the city’s best museums, theatres, churches, art galleries and other cultural attractions.

A leisurely sightseeing walk takes in star attractions such as the São Roque Church and Convento Do Carmo, while the area is dotted with picturesque tree-lined squares where you can take the weight off for a while and watch the world go by. For those interested in culture and history, the National Museum of Contemporary Art and the Archaeological Museum are worth a visit.

Chiado has no shortage of bars and restaurants of its own which give it a distinctly touristy feel, but if you are looking for more high octane nightlife, the Bairro Alto is just a short elevator trip away up the hill.

ALFAMA: THE BEST AREA IN LISBON FOR COUPLES

Alfama has a reputation for being the prettiest neighbourhood in Lisbon and a glimpse of the old city that existed before the 1755 earthquake wreaked its havoc. Sprawling down the slope of the hill from the São Jorge Castle down towards the river, Alfama escaped the devastation relatively unscathed. As a result, it survives as a living timecapsule of the old medieval town, a warren of narrow winding cobbled streets, tight-packed houses and terracotta-tiled rooftops.

Alfama is definitely the neighbourhood to stay in if you like atmosphere and history. Heading up the hill towards the castle gives some of the best views Lisbon has to offer. Key attractions include the National Pantheon, the São Vicente da Fora Monastery which is now a museum, the 12th Century cathedral and the castle itself.

Be warned, though – staying in Alfama means you will be doing a lot of walking, as many of the steep narrow streets are inaccessible to vehicles.

BAIRRO ALTO: THE BEST AREA IN LISBON FOR NIGHTLIFE

In contrast to ‘low’ Baixa, Bairro Alto is literally ‘the high district’ occupying a hilltop across the valley from São Jorge Castle. Built around a central grid of densely packed streets, Bairro Alto is famous as Lisbon’s nightlife hotspot, with seemingly every building in the central block serving as some kind of bar, club or food joint.

If you’re drawn to more alternative, bohemian neighbourhoods, Bairro Alto is ideal. Seemingly asleep throughout the day, there is relatively little to do except browse the abundant graffiti and street art, although there is a smattering of interesting and unique boutique shops, especially away from the centre.

But it is at night that Bairro Alto comes into its own, with weekend’s especially melding into one long party. One for younger revellers looking to dance the nights away (and sleep all day, which is the only time it might be quiet enough to sleep!)

PRINCIPE REAL: THE BEST FOR LGBTQ+

A modern, urbane, cosmopolitan district, Principe Real has a growing reputation for being home to the city’s hottest and hippest destinations. Cool bars, high quality restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world and an eclectic mix of super-chic and off-beat shops make Principe Real a great alternative to some of the more obviously touristy parts of the city. It is also known for being Lisbon’s main LGBQT+ friendly hub.

Located behind Bairro Alto if you are walking from the river, Principe Real is a great base if you want to enjoy the nightlife or the main tourist bustle further down the hill without being so immersed in the middle of it all. It’s also a neighbourhood worth exploring and enjoying in its own right.

Shoppers are well catered for by the choice of independent shops, as well as the Embaixada mall. Principe Real is also well served by squares and gardens, many of them surrounded by excellent bars, cafes and food stalls – the Principe Real gardens themselves are well worth a visit, as is the Praça das Flores square for a laid-back local feel. This area is also home to the Science and Natural History museum.

CAIS DO SODRE: THE BEST AREA IN LISBON FOR GETTING OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Most old port towns have a waterfront area that once carried a certain reputation. In Lisbon’s case, this was Cais do Sodre . But in recent times, this once seedy red-light district has undergone a significant makeover, without entirely losing the down-at-heel edge that attracted adventure-seekers to it in the first place.

Arguably Cais do Sodre’s biggest draw is the riverfront, nowadays transformed into an attractive promenade surrounded by warehouse conversions. There are restaurants, bars, clubs, and plenty of affordable accommodation options, making Cais a decent challenger to Bairro Alto’s title as Lisbon’s main nightlife hotspot.

Cais do Sodre is also an excellent base if you want to explore further afield across the wider Lisbon area and beyond. It is home to a major rail terminal with links to cities throughout Portugal, and you can also easily cross the river Tejo to explore the far side. So, whether you’re looking for day trips from Lisbon or more unusual things to do elsewhere in Portugal , staying here will make life easier for you.

The best areas to stay in Lisbon Portugal

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Where to Stay in Lisbon 2024: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

Julie Last updated: March 21, 2024 Portugal Leave a Comment

Where to Stay in Lisbon Portugal Hotels

When deciding where to stay in Lisbon, there are several factors to consider…not only the cost of the hotel, but its location and its amenities will have a big impact on your overall experience in Lisbon.

Whether you want to stay in a highly rated, budget hotel in the center of town, or a charming, boutique hotel in a quiet neighborhood, we’ve got you covered. We took the long list of places to stay in Lisbon and narrowed them down, organized by location and budget.

In this guide, we cover best places to stay in Lisbon…not only the best properties, but also the best areas of town to call home while you are here.

This guide starts off with information about where to stay in Lisbon organized by location. After this section, we also list the best properties organized by cost and travel style ( or skip ahead now ).

Table of Contents

Geography 101: A Brief Overview of Lisbon

Before we get into the best hotels in Lisbon, here is a quick geography lesson. This is very important if it is your first visit to Lisbon.

Lisbon sits on the Tagus River. The majority of things to do in Lisbon are clustered together in the city center, which sits on the north bank of the Tagus River. In this relatively small area are the neighborhoods Baixa, Chiado, Alfama, Bairro Alto, Principe Real, Cais do Sodre, and Graça.

Sitting farther to the west is Belém (home to Belém Tower and the amazing Jerónimos Monastery) and Alcantara. These are great areas to visit but because of their location, it will take you longer to get to the city center. For first time visitors to Lisbon, we recommend staying at one of the more centrally located neighborhoods.

It’s also important to know that Lisbon is a hilly city. You’ll do a fair amount of hill and stair climbs as you explore Lisbon but there are funiculars (called elevators or ascensors) that can help save you some steps.

More Information about Lisbon

  • Lisbon Bucket List: Best Things to Do in Lisbon
  • Best Day Trips from Lisbon: Sintra, Cascais, Óbidos & More
  • 10 Day Portugal Itinerary: Lisbon, Porto & the Algarve

Where to Stay in Lisbon: On a Map

Here is a map of the best places to stay in Lisbon. Each color corresponds to a different neighborhood in Lisbon. The black markers indicate the top attractions in Lisbon.

How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each hotel in Lisbon. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

Best Places to Stay in Lisbon: By Neighborhood

In this guide, budget hotels are 2-star properties, mid-range hotels are 3-star properties, upscale hotels are 4-star properties, and luxury hotels are 5-star properties.

If you want hotel recommendations without reading about each neighborhood, here are our top hotel picks in Lisbon:

  LUXURY: Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon UPSCALE: ON/SET Alfama – Lisbon Cinema Apartments (Alfama) MID-RANGE: Hotel da Baixa (Baixa) MID-RANGE: Blue Liberdade Hotel (Praça dos Restauradores) BUDGET: Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel APARTMENTS: Lisbon Rentals Chiado (Bairro Alto)

Prime Location in the Heart of Lisbon

Baixa is the touristy heart of Lisbon. Its central location means you can walk to many of Lisbon’s top attractions and you will stay near some of its top restaurants.

Baixa is one of the lower areas of Lisbon, so from here it is an uphill walk to most places in Lisbon. This grid of streets is bordered by the Tagus River and it sits between Chiado (to the west) and Alfama (to the east).

Top Attractions in Baixa: Praça da Comércio, Arco da Rua Augusta, Rua Augusta, Rossio Square, Rossio Train Station, Santa Justa Elevator (which takes you up to Chiado)

Pros of Staying in Baixa: This flat neighborhood, with its grid layout, is easily walkable. From Baixa, you will be within walking distance of many of Lisbon’s most famous sights. It also has a handy location next to the Rossio train station, great for traveling on to your next destination in Portugal or day tripping to Sintra or Cascais.

Cons of Staying in Baixa: Baixa is one of the lowest parts of Lisbon, so from here it will be an uphill walk to Alfama, Chiado, and Principe Real. This neighborhood is also very touristy and lacks the charm you will find in Chiado or Bairro Alto.

Praca do Comercio | Where to Stay in Lisbon

Praça do Comércio

Santa Justa Lift Lisbon | Where to Stay in Lisbon

Santa Justa Lift. The lower level is in Baixa. If you ride the elevator to the top, it takes you up to Chiado and some fantastic viewpoints of Lisbon.

Best Hotels in Baixa

LUXURY: Art Legacy Hotel Baixa-Chiado. This beautiful boutique hotel is located just a short walk from the Santa Justa Elevator and Rossio Square. It gets exceptional reviews for its location, facilities, WiFi, and cleanliness. Some rooms have a terrace or balcony with an exquisite view of Lisbon.

UPSCALE: Ando Living – Douradores Townhouse. If you want to stay in a luxurious apartment in the city center, this is a fantastic place to consider. It gets exceptional reviews and offers a long list of two-bedroom apartments, perfect for families and small groups of travelers. All apartments have a washing machine, balcony, and air conditioning and rooms on the higher floors have a great view of the city.

MID-RANGE: Hotel da Baixa. This brilliantly green-tiled building is located on Rua de Santa Justa, just a short walk from the Santa Justa Elevator. Rooms range in size from small double rooms to spacious, elegant suites that can accommodate a family of four. This is a gorgeous, mid-range hotel in the heart of Lisbon.

Hotel Hotel da Baixa

Hotel da Baixa | Where to Stay in Lisbon

BUDGET: Home Lisbon Hotel. This hostel is located just a few minutes walk from Praça da Comércio and the Alfama neighborhood, giving it a prime location in Lisbon. It is one of the top reviewed budget properties in Lisbon, making this one of our top picks for budget travelers. Rooms range from dormitory-style rooms to private twin and double rooms.

BUDGET: Yes Lisbon Hostel. This hostel also gets wonderful reviews. It is just steps away from Arco da Rua Augusta, one of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks. There is a communal kitchen and all rooms have air conditioning.

Charming Neighborhood with a Great Central Location

Chiado sits just to the west of Baixa. It is also centrally located, making it another prime location to stay in Lisbon. With its older buildings and winding streets, Chiado has more charm than Baixa.

This is consistently rated as one of the top locations to stay in Lisbon for first time visitors.

Top Attractions in Chiado: Carmo Convent, Largo do Carmo, Belcanto (amazing 2-star Michelin restaurant), Santa Justa Elevator (the views from the upper level are some of the best in Lisbon)

Pros of Staying in Chiado: If you want to stay in a central location, but in a neighborhood that has a little more charm than Baixa, look no further. Some hotels in this area have rooms that have jaw-dropping views of Lisbon.

Cons of Staying in Chiado: Chiado isn’t home to many of Lisbon’s top atttractions for tourists, but it is however within walking distance of many of them.

Lisbon Views Santa Justa Lift | Where to Stay in Lisbon

View from the top of the Santa Justa Lift

Carmo Convent | Where to Stay in Lisbon

Carmo Convent

Best Hotels in Chiado

UPSCALE: Casa Balthazar. One of the perks of staying in Chiado are the views of Lisbon. Not only does this hotel get near perfect reviews but some rooms have an outdoor terrace with panoramic views of Lisbon. Rooms are spacious, there is an onsite pool, and from here it is a quick walk to the train station and many sites in Lisbon. Children are not allowed.

MID-RANGE: Solar dos Poetas. This highly rated hotel sits on Camões Square. Some rooms have a balcony with a beautiful view overlooking the square. From this location, you are just steps away from the Bairro Alto neighborhood, the Bica funicular, and tram 28. It’s a fantastic central location in Lisbon.

Hotel Solar dos Poetas

Solar dos Poetas | Where to Stay in Lisbon

MID-RANGE: Lost Lisbon :: Chiado House. Tucked away in the center of Chiado is this historic house that has been converted into a hotel. It gets fantastic reviews but be aware that not all rooms have a private bathroom and children are not allowed. However, it is a good pick for travelers on a budget who want a central location in Lisbon.

BUDGET: Lost Inn Lisbon Hotel. This hostel is located on the southern end of Chiado, not far from Cais do Sodre. There are dormitory-style rooms as well as double rooms with a shared bathroom.

Bairro Alto

Best for its Nightlife and Restaurants

We spent many nights in Lisbon in the Bairro Alto neighborhood. This picturesque area is home to some of the best restaurants and bars in Lisbon. If you are a foodie and want to be within walking distance of some fantastic restaurants, this is the place to stay.

Bairro Alto is also one of the prettiest neighborhoods we visited. Colorful, tile-covered buildings sit along winding, cobblestoned streets. Bairro Alto is fun to explore and fun to photograph.

Top Attractions in Bairro Alto: Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, Igreja de Sao Roque, Los Dos Manos (excellent Japanese Mexican fusion restaurant), O Barrigas (another great spot for dinner), Lumi Rooftop (rooftop restaurant with a great view of Lisbon), Leve Leve (tapas bar), Eleven Bar Lisboa

Pros of Staying in Bairro Alto: Many fantastic restaurants will be on your doorstep, as well as bars and nightclubs. Perfect for those who plan to party the night away in Lisbon.

Cons of Staying in Bairro Alto: A neighborhood known for its nightlife is going to be loud at night. There can be a hotel or two tucked away on a quieter street, so if you want to get a good night’s sleep, carefully check the reviews of the hotels in this neighborhood.

Miradouro do Sao Pedro de Alcantara | Where to Stay in Lisbon

Miradouro do Sao Pedro de Alcantara

Best Hotels in Bairro Alto

LUXURY: Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel. This gorgeous hotel is located on Rua da Misericordia, just steps away from Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon. It’s also located within a block of one of our favorite Lisbon restaurants, Los Dos Manos. This historic hotel was once the former private residence of Joao Federico Ludovice, the architect to King Joao V. Rooms are beautifully decorated and onsite is a wine bar, spa, and restaurant.

UPSCALE: Lisbon Rentals Chiado . This property is located in Bairro Alto (even though it says Chiado in its name), sitting right on Rua da Misericordia, very close to Chiado. Take your pick from one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, all of them elegantly decorated and equipped with a kitchen and washing machine. This is a great choice for families and for groups of friends traveling through Lisbon.

Hotel Lisbon Rentals Chiado

Lisbon Rentals Chiado | Where to Stay in Lisbon

MID-RANGE: Soriano Place. Soriano Place offers a long list of spacious apartments that come equipped with a kitchen, washing machine, and air conditioning. Some rooms have a small balcony or terrace with a city view. The apartments are nothing fancy but they do tick all the boxes for families or small groups who want space, a washing machine, a great location in Lisbon, all in a place that gets wonderful reviews. It is located on the west side of Bairro Alto, removed from the noise of the nightclubs.

BUDGET: Independente Principe Real. This hostel gets excellent reviews for its location, cleanliness, and comfort. Decorated in an Art Deco style, it is one of the prettiest hostels we’ve seen. Take your pick from dormitory-style rooms or private suites with a view of the city. Onsite is a communal kitchen, laundry facility, and restaurant.

Lisbon’s Oldest Neighborhood

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. This maze of windy, hilly streets was relatively untouched by the 1755 earthquake. It is one of the top places to visit for first timers in Lisbon and home to some of Lisbon’s most famous sights.

This area is extremely touristy. It also can be one of the most difficult to get to and around. Since the streets are so windy and narrow, it’s difficult to get around by car. You’ll do a lot more walking here and it can be more challenging to hire and Uber or Bolt to get you around the city.

Top Attractions in Alfama: Lisbon Cathedral, Miradoura de Santa Luzia, Miradouro das Portas do Sol, Church of Saint Antonio, São Jorge Castle, Monastery of Sao Vicente de Fora. Tram 28 runs through Alfama.

Pros of Staying in Alfama: Within walking distance of quite a few of Lisbon’s top sights. Good, central location in Lisbon. One of the most charming neighborhoods in Lisbon, with its historic streets and buildings. You will spend a half to a full day here on a visit to Lisbon, so staying here puts you in the heart of the action.

Cons of Staying in Alfama: Hilly area, so you will be doing some hill and stair climbs, especially to get up to the castle. Touristy. Can be difficult to get to and from Alfama by car, because of the hilly, narrow streets. If you have plans to have a rental car, choose a different neighborhood (parking here is almost nonexistant).

Lisbon Cathedral | Where to Stay in Lisbon

Lisbon Cathedral

Miradouro de Santa Luzia | Best Places to Stay in Lisbon

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Alfama Lisbon Portugal | Best Places to Stay in Lisbon

The view of Alfama from Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Best Hotels in Alfama

LUXURY: Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel. Located on a hilltop in Alfama, this boutique hotel offers spacious rooms, some with a view of the city and the Tagus River. Onsite is a restaurant and bar.

UPSCALE: ON/SET Alfama – Lisbon Cinema Apartments. This adult only property offers several apartment types, all of which come with air conditioning, a kitchenette, a dining area, daily housekeeping, and a washing machine. It gets near perfect reviews on Booking.com.

MID-RANGE: Castle Inn Lisbon Apartments. Located inside of the castle walls, this small property offers several apartments, ranging from a studio to a one bedroom apartment with a view of the river to a two-bedroom apartment.

MID-RANGE: Alfama Apartments Services . This property is located near the waterfront. These serviced apartments come with air conditioning, a balcony, and some have a small kitchenette. Children are not allowed.

MID-RANGE: Casa da Varanda Simpatica. If you want an apartment with a gorgeous view of the Tagus River, and stay in one of Lisbon’s most charming neighborhoods, click the link above to see photos. This one-bedroom apartment can accommodate up to four guests, has a kitchen, a washing machine, and a view of the city.

Avenida da Liberdade and Marquês de Pombal

Upscale Area Just Outside of the City Center

Avenida da Liberdade is a wide, tree-lined boulevard that runs from Rossio Square (in Baixa) north to Parque Eduardo VII. This lovely street is lined with upscale shops and shopping malls. Branching off of Avenida da Liberdade are smaller, more residential streets.

This area feels quieter and much less touristy than the neighborhoods previously mentioned.

We stayed here on our visit to Lisbon. Since this neighborhood’s location sits north of the city center, it is not the most convenient location. To get to most sites, we either hired a ride share app (like Uber or Bolt) or used the metro. However, if you will have a rental car, this is the easiest area on our list to find a parking space. Some hotels here will also offer parking.

Top Attractions near Avenida da Liberdade: Parque Eduardo VII, Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, the Lisbon Winery (fantastic place to go wine tasting)

Pros of Staying in Avenida da Liberdade: This area is home to many of Lisbon’s top luxury hotels, so if you plan to stay in a 5-star hotel, this is a good place to start your hotel search. Since this area is outside of the city center, it is quieter and has more of a local feel. Great location if you will have a rental car.

Cons of Staying in Avenida da Liberdade: Farther from the main sights in Lisbon, so it will be a long walk or a ride on the metro or Uber to get to the city center.

Marques de Pombal Lisbon | Best Places to Stay in Lisbon

Overlooking Marquês de Pombal (photo taken from the Four Seasons Ritz)

Best Hotels in Avenida da Liberdade

LUXURY: Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon. The Four Seasons is one of Lisbon’s most luxurious hotels. We had the pleasure of staying here during our visit to Lisbon. The service is impeccable, rooms are spacious, some with a gorgeous view of the city, and an outdoor track is located on the roof of the hotel. From this spot, you get one of the best views of Lisbon. Also onsite is CURA, a Michelin-starred restaurant, where we had our best meal, ever. For luxury travelers, this is our top pick in Lisbon.

Lisbon Portugal View | Best Places to Stay in Lisbon

The view from the Four Seasons Ritz

LUXURY: PortoBay Liberdade. This boutique hotel is located just off of Avenida da Liberdade. It is topped by a terrace and rooftop pool and from here you can look across the rooftops of Lisbon.

LUXURY: EPIC SANA Marques Hotel. Located next to Marquês de Pombal Square and Parque Eduardo VII, this luxurious hotel gets wonderful reviews. Onsite are multiple restaurants. The KOJI Bar and Restaurant overlooks Lisbon and serves Japanese cuisine. Rooms are elegantly decorated and some can accommodate up to four people.

UPSCALE: Hotel Hotel – Member of Design Hotels. This beautiful hotel is located near the southern end of Avenida da Liberdade, within walking distance of Rossio Square and the Rossio train station. Onsite is a pool, garden, bar, and restaurant.

MID-RANGE: Blue Liberdade Hotel. Located on Praça dos Restauradores, this 3-star hotel gets exceptional reviews. Take your pick from double rooms or a family room that can accommodate up to 4 people, making this a good pick for families who want a central location.

MID-RANGE : Maxime Hotel Lisbon. This hotel was once a cabaret but it has been transformed into a hotel. All rooms are decorated with themes from the cabaret, including a bar room, a Burlesque room, and even a bondage room. The hotel bar still retains the original counter and chandeliers, and this is one of the most unique hotels in Lisbon.

Hotel Maxime Hotel Lisbon

Maxime Hotel Lisbon | Where to Stay in Lisbon

BUDGET: Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel. This is the highest rated hostel in Lisbon. It sits on Praça dos Restauradores, at the southern end of Avenida da Liberdade, giving it a fantastic central location in Lisbon. It is within walking distance of the train station and handy metro stations. Click the link above to see photos the rooms and to read prior guest’s glowing reviews.

Where to Stay in Lisbon: By Travel Style

Best hotels in lisbon for mid-range travelers.

For mid-range travelers, we recommend Hotel da Baixa (beautiful hotel in a great location in Baixa), Blue Liberdade (a highly rated hotel on Praça dos Restauradores, just outside of Baixa), Maxime Hotel (a unique hotel decorated in a Cabaret theme, located along Avenida da Liberdade), Solar dos Poetas (lovely hotel on Camões Square in Chiado), and Soriano Place (apartments in Bairro Alto).

Best Hotels in Lisbon for Budget Travelers

Goodmorning Solo Traveller Hostel is the highest rated hostel in Lisbon and has a convenient location near the train station. Independente Principe Real in Bairro Alto is one of the prettiest hostels we have seen. Home Lisbon Hotel gets fantastic reviews and has a prime location in Baixa.

Best Hotels in Lisbon for Luxury Travelers

For luxury travelers, the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz is our top pick, with its impeccable service, gorgeous views of Lisbon, and onsite Michelin-starred restaurant CURA.

We also recommend Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel (in Bairro Alto), Art Legacy Hotel (in Baixa), and EPIC SANA Marques Hotel (in Avenida da Liberdade/Marques de Pombal).

Best Hotels in Lisbon for Families

For families, our top picks are Lisbon Rentals Chiado (beautiful apartments in Bairro Alto), Ando Living – Douradades Townhouse (beautiful apartments in Baixa), Castle Inn Lisbon Apartments (budget friendly apartments inside the castle walls), and Hotel da Baixa (in Baixa).

Best Hotels in Lisbon with a View

If you want a room with an extraordinary view, we recommend the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz , Casa Balthazar (in Chiado), and Santiago de Alfama (in Alfama).

If you have any questions about where to stay in Lisbon, let us know in the comment section below.

More Information for Your Trip to Portugal

LISBON: In our Lisbon Bucket List , we list 40 highlights and hidden gems to visit in Lisbon. Here are 14 amazing day trips to take from Lisbon.

PORTUGAL ITINERARIES: If you are just beginning to plan your Portugal itinerary, take a look at our 10 Day Portugal Itinerary for five different ways to spend 10 days in Portugal. We also have a detailed 10 day itinerary that includes Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve .

SINTRA: In our article Best Things to Do in Sintra , we cover the top sights to see in Sintra. In our article One Day in Sintra, we provide three different ways to plan a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon.

PORTO: Get started with our Porto Travel Guide, which lists where to eat, where to stay, and has lots of helpful tips for visiting Porto. We cover the best things to do in Porto in our Porto Bucket List. In our Guide to the Wine Cellars in Gaia, get recommendations on which wine cellars to visit and how to plan your time. See the best of Porto in our 2 Days in Porto Itinerary.

DOURO VALLEY: Get started with our Douro Valley Travel Guide , which covers the essential things to know when planning a trip to this wine region. We also have a guide to 8 Wineries to Visit in the Douro Valley.

We have TONS more information about Portugal in our Portugal Travel Guide, including Lisbon, Sintra, Porto, the Algarve, and the Douro Valley.

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Wheatless Wanderlust

Where to Stay in Lisbon: A Complete Guide for First Timers

Lisbon was both our first stop in Portugal, and was also our last stop in Europe a couple of months later when our 89 days in Europe were up (that’s just shy of the 90 day maximum we can spend in the E.U. on a tourist visa).

We really enjoyed Lisbon, and spent the better part of a week wandering the streets of Libson’s neighborhoods, stopping here and there for a cup of coffee (if you love coffee, make sure to read our guide to the best coffee in Lisbon ) or a glass of Portuguese wine, which is both cheap and delicious – the two best wine tasting notes, in our opinion.

Lisbon is a city not unlike San Francisco , our former home, in that each neighborhood has a distinct look, style, and overall vibe. As you walk from the cosmopolitan grid that is Baixa, Lisbon’s downtown, towards the narrow, winding cobblestone streets in Alfama, the oldest-feeling part of the city, you’ll understand what we mean.

The areas are a few short blocks apart, but couldn’t look and feel more different. 

Once you begin to understand the history of Lisbon, you’ll start to understand why. We’re obviously not Lisbon history experts, but we did a couple of walking tours and connected with locals who are.

Our Drunk History (if you’re not familiar, it’s a tv show where they film someone simultaneously telling a story about a historical event and getting wasted at the same time – it’s really fun!) take on the reason that Lisbon’s neighborhoods look and feel so different is that, after the earthquake in the 18th Century, the city brought in various architects from different places around the world to help rebuild and replan the city.

As a result, you have parts of the city that look like Paris, with grand boulevards lined with four story apartment buildings, and parts of the city that feel like Ancient Rome, with cobblestone streets and castles.

best tourist place in lisbon

We recognize that our idea of the best place to stay in Lisbon might not be the same as yours, so we set out to write a comprehensive guide that takes you through a few of our top picks and helps you figure out whether or not each area is right for you.

In this guide to figuring out where to stay in Lisbon for your particular style and budget, we’ll go through our favorite neighborhoods, along with the pros and cons of staying there, some highlights that you probably shouldn’t miss (whether or not you choose to stay there), and some recommended hotels, apartments, and hostels to get you started on your search. 

best tourist place in lisbon

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

A Quick Primer on Lisbon’s Geography

The easiest place to start in terms of discussing the layout of Lisbon is the Tagus River. Which looks like the ocean, and is close to the ocean, but is not actually the ocean. In general, the closer you are to the river, the more tourists you’ll find. 

The second thing we should talk about when it comes to Lisbon’s layout is the hills. Coming from San Francisco, we’re not too concerned with hills. Lisbon might even be more hilly than San Francisco.

Over the course of your trip to Lisbon, you’re going to have to climb some hills. There’s really no way around it. 

From the river, Lisbon heads straight up the hills to the north, which is where you’ll find neighborhoods like Chiado, Alfama, and Bairro Alto, which are great places to stay that are packed with bars, restaurants, shops, and hidden (and not-so-hidden) treasures. 

Where to Stay in Lisbon: A Complete Guide to the 4 Best Places to Stay

Now that you’ve gotten a brief overview of Lisbon’s layout, let’s get into the specific places to stay in Lisbon that we like. 

Of course, like most cities, the answer to the question “where should I stay in Lisbon?” largely depends on YOU and your preferences. There’s no cookie-cutter answer that we can give you. Which is why we’re going into the pros and cons of each area below to give you an idea of whether or not it fits what you’re looking for. 

If you’re short on time and want to get straight to finding the perfect place to stay in Lisbon, this section is for you (though we’d still highly recommend reading the part we’ve written below about the neighborhood you chose, which has the pros and cons, neighborhood highlights, and specific hotels and apartments we like). 

  • If it’s your first time in Lisbon , you should stay in Baixa or Chiado . We stayed there on our first trip, and it’s a fantastic, central home base for exploring the city. We stayed at Porto do Mar Apartments in Baixa, which we recommend.
  • If you’re looking for something more romantic and charming , stay in Alfama , which is full of narrow cobblestone streets to get lost in. But there’s a tradeoff – it’s up a hill, and there’s only a few ways to get up and down that aren’t walking.
  • If you’re looking for nightlife and to be in the middle of all the action after dark, stay in Bairro Alto , which is adjacent to Chiado on top of the hill.

Where We Stayed in Lisbon

The best place to start this guide is our own personal experience. We found ourselves in Lisbon twice in the span of a couple of months, and stayed in slightly different areas on each stay. 

I should note that I, Matt, have Celiac Disease, which means we need to eat strictly gluten free. A place to stay with access to a kitchen is essentially a must-have for us, so we tend to gravitate towards apartments. After a conversation with a local tour guide, Nuno, who led one of the great walking tours we did in Lisbon, we can’t recommend Airbnb in good faith . 

Locals have seen Airbnb change the fabric of Lisbon over the past decade as Lisbon has risen in popularity. At one point on our tour, he pointed to nearly every building on the square we were standing in and said that each of them had units that were being rented on Airbnb. 

Locals are being pushed further and further outside the city center so that apartments can be converted into short term rentals catering to tourists, and we believe that is a bad thing for the city overall. 

Instead, we’ll be focusing on hotels and “aparthotels” or “serviced apartments,” which are a cross between a hotel and an apartment complex.  

First, we stayed in Baixa near the water at Porta Do Mar Apartments , which we really enjoyed.

The location is great – right near the Metro, within walking distance to Chiado and Alfama – though the area was packed with tourists and felt a little more lifeless than other areas we explored. The apartments themselves are also nice, with modern appliances and plenty of space to spread out. 

best tourist place in lisbon

On our return trip, we stayed on the border of Baixa and Chiado a block away from Rossio Station. In our opinion, this is one of the best areas to stay in Lisbon, especially up the hill on the Chiado side.

This time, we stayed at Stay&Co Rossio , another serviced apartment that had plenty of space, a flood of natural light, and a nice view out over Lisbon.

Chiado: Central and Bustling (Overall Best Location)

best tourist place in lisbon

Chiado is about as central as you can get in Lisbon. It’s on the hill, which means you won’t have to walk UP the hill anytime you want to go anywhere (though you will if you head down the hill – what goes down must come back up in Lisbon).

The neighborhood itself is packed full of shopping, places to eat and drink, and historical sights like the Convento do Carmo, which is a former convent destroyed in the 1755 earthquake that is now a museum.

In many ways, Chiado is at the center of Lisbon’s history. The earthquake in 1755, which has shaped Lisbon as we know it today, and the Carnation Revolution in 1974 that ended the dictatorship in Portugal both took place in Chiado (although obviously the earthquake took place all around the city). 

The architecture in Chiado is a mix of old and new, mostly due to the fire in 1988 that burned through the main shopping area around the mall. The facades remained intact (thanks to being built out of stone), but the insides were gutted and replaced.

There are a couple of ways to get up (or down) the hill from Chiado to places like Baixa or Rossio Station (which is where you catch the train to take a day trip to Sintra ). You can walk, of course, which is our preferred way of getting around Lisbon.

You can take the metro. Or you can take the Elevador de Santa Justa, which was built in the early 1900’s to connect Chiado to Baixa.

Lines for the elevator are long, and it costs money. We’d recommend walking through the mall to get down (though you should definitely go to the viewing platform on top of the elevator to check out the view!).  

best tourist place in lisbon

Pros and Cons of Chiado

Pros : It’s central, squished between Bairro Alto and Principe Real to the west, Alfama and Mouraria to the east, and Baixa towards the river. There’s a metro station – Baixa-Chiado – right in the heart of the neighborhood, which makes it easy to access other parts of the city. It’s more charming than adjacent Baixa, with its narrow alleys and serpentine streets providing a stark contrast to Lisbon’s downtown area, which is on a grid. 

Cons : The hills, which you’ll have to walk up and down at some point, and the price are the main cons. It’s central and a very desirable area, and prices reflect that. 

Chiado Highlights

Here are some of our favorite discoveries in Chiado. 

  • Grom Gelato : Our favorite gelato shop in Lisbon, and quite possibly the world. Everything is gluten free, including the cones! And my brothers – who aren’t gluten free – and Alysha all confirmed that it was the best gelato in Lisbon after trying it alongside other options. 
  • Convento do Carmo : A convent that was gutted by the earthquake and subsequent fires. The façade is (mostly) still standing, towering over the square that it stands on.  Today, it’s a museum.  
  • The view from the Santa Justa elevator platform : Is stellar. The end. You can get to it by walking past the Convent and heading up the stairs straight ahead (rather than going down the stairs). We’d recommend skipping the elevator ride though, which is expensive and involves a long line, and instead walk down the hill. 
  • Fábrica Coffee Roasters : Near the top of our list of the best coffee in Lisbon – great selection of espresso drinks and filter coffee made with house-roasted beans. 
  • Pastéis de Nata : Two of the three best places to try a pastel de nata are in Chiado right across the street from each other (according to Alysha and my brothers – I have Celiac Disease and need to eat gluten free, so none for me!). Aloma and Manteigaria are both worth a stop to try the custard-y tart. 

best tourist place in lisbon

The Best Places to Stay in Chiado

Here are some of the best places to stay in Chiado, whether you’re looking for a charming hotel or a spacious apartment where you have a bit more room to spread out and relax. 

There’s a lot of options in Chiado, so we’ve gone ahead and combed through hundreds of places to stay to narrow the list down to a few options that we’re excited about based on style, reviews, and location. All you have to do is choose one of them and you’re ready to head to Lisbon!

Feeling Chiado 15: A Boutique Hotel in an Amazing Location

This charming hotel is right on the square where you’ll find the Convento do Carmo, which might be one of Lisbon’s single best locations. From there, you’ll be a block away from the heart of Chiado, and within walking distance of Barrio Alto, Principe Real, and Baixa. 

Comfortable, spacious rooms are the name of the game here. Even the standard suites are larger than most hotel rooms you’ll find, but the deluxe suites are even bigger, some of which have a nice terrace with spectacular views of the city.  

Chiado 44: A Mid-Range Guesthouse

This lovely guesthouse is a few blocks from the Baixa-Chiado metro station, which means you’ll be well-connected to the rest of the city if you decide to stay here. 

The building itself dates back to the 19th Century, but the interior has been fully renovated with beautiful, stylish rooms and common spaces. 

Once again, this isn’t your average mega-hotel chain. There are only 12 rooms here, which means you’re going to get personalized service. 

Half of the rooms have river views and balconies, while the other half face the property’s garden (and two of those have balconies). Rooms are relatively small, but plenty comfortable if you’re planning on spending most of your time out and about exploring Lisbon. 

Lost Lisbon – Chiado House: A Nice Budget-Friendly Option

This guesthouse was on our list, but the timing and dates didn’t quite work out. This is another intimate place to stay in Lisbon, with just a few rooms, exceptionally friendly service, and a beautifully decorated interior. 

Your room comes with a continental breakfast, and you’ll have access to the shared kitchen to cook lunch or dinner, if you wish to. Which makes this a cross between a hostel and a hotel. They have smaller rooms outfitted with a pair of twin beds, and larger rooms that have a comfy  double bed. 

The decor is impeccably stylish – we love the blue tile accents throughout – and it’s worth noting that some of the rooms have private external bathrooms (rather than bathrooms inside the rooms).  The same company also has a location on Avenida da Liberdade (see it here ), which is also a nice location (though not quite as central to Lisbon’s major sights).

Casa do Barao: A Nice Boutique Hotel with a Pool 

A note at the top : the hotel is closed for renovations until fall of 2022. There are some other amazing places below if you’re traveling in the spring/summer. 

I mean, this boutique hotel is in a 19th Century building that oozes charm, has a library room, and has a great outdoor pool. Plus, it’s in one of the best areas in our favorite district in Lisbon, just a short walk away from all of the action. 

Unfortunately, we didn’t know about this place on our first trip, and when we went to try to book it for our return trip, they were renovating the building. So staying here didn’t quite work out for us, but that shouldn’t stop you!

It’s a hotel with just 12 rooms, so it’s more of a bed & breakfast when it comes to the service you’ll get (versus the mega hotels with 100+ rooms). The idea of a smaller, intimate hotel as a contrast to the massive hotel chains is exactly what got the owners into the hotel business in the first place. 

As far as rooms go, they have a range for different budgets, from their smaller (but still pretty spacious) standard rooms, to their huge premium rooms with terraces. Breakfast is served on their lovely garden patio. And did we mention the pool? 

Baixa: As Central as it Gets in Lisbon

best tourist place in lisbon

The Baixa neighborhood in Lisbon is nestled along the Tagus River between Alfama and Chiado up the hill, and the nightlife hub that is Cais de Sodre further north. It’s one of the most central – and thus “touristy” – areas in Lisbon.

After the earthquake in 1755 that led to the shaping of modern Lisbon, Baixa was rebuilt by Marquês de Pombal, who had dreams of a grid layout in downtown Lisbon.

For the most part, Baixa follows that grid layout from Praça do Comércio all the way to Rossio Train Station at it’s northern edge. It’s a stark contrast when compared to other neighborhoods in Lisbon, which generally feature narrow, winding streets and unexpected plazas.

We stayed in Baixa for our first stint in Lisbon , and it really is a perfect location for exploring the city. It’s well connected to public transportation – both via Tram 28, which basically takes you to 95% of the attractions in central Lisbon, and the metro stations along the river.

Plus, Rossio Station and Santa Apolónia Station – the two main train stations in Lisbon – are both within walking distance. 

It has plenty of places to eat and drink – including the home of the best pastel de nata in Lisbon according to our unofficial taste test and the perspective of our guide on our private walking tour (we highly recommend it – it’s this tour , and you should choose Isabel as your guide if you can).

Overall, it’s a great place to stay, though we would recommend that you spend most of your day outside of Baixa exploring the less touristy and, frankly, more interesting parts of Lisbon.

best tourist place in lisbon

Pros and Cons of Staying in Baixa

Pros : It doesn’t get much more central. It’s well connected to public transportation. It’s flat. And you’ll be able to walk to the train station for either heading to Porto (or other parts of Portugal) and to take a day trip to Sintra, which we definitely recommend.

Cons : It’s not the most authentic area in the city, but you can just plan on spending most of your time exploring the more interesting parts of Lisbon. It’s a great location, which means it’s going to be relatively expensive compared to some of the less central neighborhoods below. It’s at the bottom of the hill, which means you’ll be heading uphill to go basically anywhere else in Lisbon. And I’d probably plan on eating elsewhere – the restaurants, particularly on Praça do Comércio, are classic tourist traps.

Baixa Highlights

Here are some of our favorite spots in Baixa.

best tourist place in lisbon

  • Wines of Portugal : Located right on Praça do Comércio (which is usually a bad sign, to be honest), we really enjoyed trying some Portuguese wines while relaxing in the sun on their terrace. It’s the kind of place where you load up a card with money, and swipe the card to get 1.5oz pours of different wines they have on offer. We had a lovely rose (among other things) that the friendly bartender heard us talking about and eventually gave us the rest of the bottle when he had to replace it. They also do more formal guided tastings, if you want more background on the wines.
  • Pastel de Nata at Manteigaria : Through a super unscientific method that basically just involved trying a pastel de nata at three different places – including pastel de Belem, which is said to be both the original and the best (and is thus the most famous) – my brothers and Alysha decided that this is the best pastel de nata in Lisbon. Or, at the very least, their favorite. The crispy texture of the crust puts it at the top of the list, and the creamy custard has a perfect flavor. Oh, and the guide for our walking tour , Isabel, took us here on our tour because it’s also her favorite. So that’s four votes for Manteigaria.
  • Zarzuela : I, of course, have Celiac Disease, so I couldn’t partake in the great pastel de nata shootout we did in Lisbon. But fear not! You can get a gluten free pastel de nata over at Zarzuela, which is also in Baixa. The crust is noticeably less good, which makes sense given what I know about baking with gluten free flour, but the custard taste and texture is pretty good! I have an entire gluten free guide to Lisbon , if you also need to eat gluten free.
  • Time Out Market : Technically, I’m not quite sure if this counts as Baixa. But it’s on the border of the neighborhood if it’s not. It’s a collection of some of the best food that Lisbon has to offer (though it’s definitely not the only place you can find good food), and is essentially a classy food court. It’s a good option for groups because every person can get something different, or you can share a variety of dishes from different stalls. There’s a bar in the center of the hall serving drinks, and a good wine shop. There’s also a produce market next door with fantastic fruit that is almost like a farmers market.
  • Rossio Square : There’s not really an attraction here, per say, but the square itself is gorgeous, with waves of tiles and fountains. The Rossio Train Station at the far end of the square is where you catch the train for a day trip to Sintra.

best tourist place in lisbon

The Best Places to Stay in Baixa

Baixa has a nice mix of places to stay, mostly hotels and apartments, with a few hostels thrown in, which are perfect if you’re heading to Lisbon on a tight budget. 

We went through the choices and narrowed it down to these five, which we really like.

My Story Hotel Figueira: A Stylish Boutique Hotel on a Nice Square 

We walked by this charming hotel a couple of times over the course of our time in Lisbon, and every time I turned to Alysha and said something to the effect of “I need to check that place out.”

This is a Portuguese hotel chain with locations in Lisbon, Porto, and the Azores, and all of their hotels are gorgeous.  

The hotel is right on Figueira Square, which is basically adjacent to Rossio Square in the heart of Baixa, central to Alfama, Chiado, the Rossio Train Station, and more. 

The colorful rooms are relatively spacious (over 200 square feet!), and beds are rated as very comfortable. Some rooms have a view out onto the square (which we’d imagine comes with a little bit more noise). 

They have 24 hour reception who are happy to help you with whatever you might need, breakfast, and there’s an Italian restaurant on the ground floor. 

Be Poet Baixa: A Modern Mid-Range Hotel + Great Location

The location of this modern hotel is just about perfect, roughly equidistant between Alfama, Rossio Train Station, and Praça do Comércio. With that location, you’ll be able to walk or take public transportation to basically anywhere in Lisbon or beyond. 

Rooms here aren’t the biggest, but they’re going to be both comfortable and affordable, which is definitely a tradeoff we’re willing to make. Decor is very modern, lacking some of the charm of older buildings that we kind of like about Lisbon, but that’s just our opinion. 

Rooms are outfitted with coffee makers and reviews consistently call out the beds as super comfortable, which makes this place an excellent home base for exploring Lisbon. 

Porta Do Mar: Nice, Cozy Apartments (+ Where We Stayed)

We stayed at these cozy apartments on our first stint in Lisbon, and it was a great location for getting an introduction to the city. It’s walkable to both the metro, Rossio train station (where you grab the train for a day trip to Sintra ), and the tram that takes you out to Belém. 

One thing you should know – the pictures look like there is a TON of natural light, and in some cases that’s probably true, but in our apartment there was only really natural light in the bedroom (which was great), while the kitchen area faced an internal courtyard with far less light going on. Not a deal breaker, just something to know. 

We had a group of three, so we stayed in a split-level apartment with my little brother sleeping upstairs, and us sleeping in the bedroom. It was perfect for our particular group. 

We used the kitchen to cook breakfasts, and it was stocked with everything we needed to do that. 

Casas da Baixa Jules & Madeleine: Spacious Serviced Apartments for Different Group Sizes

This collection of spacious apartments is right down the street from Porta Do Mar, which means we know firsthand that it’s a solid place to stay. 

The serviced apartments here – which are a cross between a hotel and an apartment building, giving you the best of both worlds – have a range of different sizes. Studios for traveling couples or pairs of friends, all the way up to two bedroom apartments with room for five. 

The building is a restored 18th Century building, and the interior of the apartments are a mix of that historic character and more modern design and appliances. Rooms have small, but totally functional, kitchens, if doing some cooking is something you’re into (we are!). 

They have another set of apartments – Casas da Baixa Lighthouse – just around the corner, if your dates don’t work for the other apartments. 

Home Lisbon Hostel: A Family-Run, Intimate Boutique Hostel

Home Lisbon Hostel is right in the heart of Baixa, a few blocks away from the Lisbon Cathedral and the path up to Alfama, and a few blocks away from the Elevador de Santa Justa, which takes you up to Chiado. 

It’s a family-run joint, which is part of the reason we picked it, which you know because they have something called “Mamma’s Dinner” where the mother of the hostel’s owner cooks a dinner full of Portuguese classics.

It’s small, at least relative to some of the other hostels in Lisbon, but we think that’s part of the charm and often leads to a better, more personal and intimate experience. 

They have both private rooms and dorms (max 8 people per room) available. The private rooms are cozy and well-decorated (I love the rooms with the rich green walls and dark brown furniture), and they’re basically hotel rooms. Some even have a balcony with city views!

Nicolau , a hipster brunch-y place is right on the ground floor.

Alfama: Cobblestone Streets & Amazing Views

best tourist place in lisbon

Alfama is probably the sexiest neighborhood in Lisbon. It’s charming and romantic, with it’s serpentine streets cascading down the hill from Castelo de São Jorge, and its many plazas and corners, full of people dining al fresco in the evening and with the sad-sounding melodies of fado wafting through its streets.

We found ourselves in Alfama on multiple occasions during our time in Lisbon, and it reminds me a lot of Trastevere in Rome, which is our favorite place to stay in Rome , or Montmartre in Paris, one of the most romantic places to stay in Paris .

Whether or not you decide to stay in Alfama, an evening stroll through the neighborhood (and possibly a dinner and some fado) should absolutely be a part of your Lisbon itinerary .

best tourist place in lisbon

Pros and Cons of Staying in Alfama

Pros : It’s sexy. There’s something about narrow alleyways masquerading as streets and walking on cobblestones that has a certain romance, and Alfama is chock full of it. There are several fantastic viewpoints where you can look out over Lisbon (views are particularly good in the evening). And there are plenty of great bars and restaurants to be had, particularly on the northeast side of the castle.

Cons : It’s pretty easily the hardest place to access in Lisbon. Wherever you’re going, you’re likely going to either have to walk up or down a hill, or hop on the Tram 28 which is notoriously packed with tourists between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm or so. If you try to take a taxi or Uber, good luck having them navigate those narrow streets. Again, you’re going to be walking. If walking isn’t your thing, we’d look elsewhere and plan on visiting Alfama for an evening instead. It’s also going to be fairly expensive since it’s a desirable place to stay, and there aren’t a ton of options.

There’s another con that we think is worth touching on here, and that’s gentrification . As Alfama (and Lisbon as a whole) finds itself firmly on the tourist map, more and more of the historic buildings in the area are being bought up to turn into hotels and apartments catering to the tourist demand. Which means less inventory for locals, and higher prices, pushing people out of their homes that they’ve lived in for decades.

We’re not going to solve that problem here, but it’s worth considering as a factor when you make your decision about where to stay in Lisbon. Frankly, it’s a problem throughout the entirety of the city, but it’s most pronounced in Alfama.

Alfama Highlights

Here are some spots not to miss in Alfama.

best tourist place in lisbon

  • Miss Can : When in Portugal, you should probably try some canned fish. There’s no shortage of places to try it, including some pretty opulent shops in Baixa and Chiado, but we think you should opt for the more humble Miss Can. Focused on the quality of the product and the sustainability around the industry, Miss Can was started by a woman who came from multiple generations of fishermen. Tucked away on a residential street near the castle, you’ll find their storefront where you can grab some cans of sardines, bacalhau (cod), and squid, among other things, in different sauces. We really, really liked the bacalhau in garlic olive oil, which was easily our favorite (and the least fishy of the bunch, if you aren’t a huge fan of fish). You can grab a few to bring home as souvenirs, or get some to enjoy inside the small storefront with a glass of vinho verde.
  • Castelo de São Jorge : Though the castle on the hill (cue the Ed Sheeran song) is a replica of the original, refurbished in the 20 th century to evoke a sense of pride in the city, it’s still a cool place to visit. The reason to visit is to climb the castle walls (which, again, are a replica) to get great views out over the city, including the bridge. It’s an important site because it symbolizes the conquest of Lisbon by the Portuguese in the 12 th Century, when the Second Crusade came to Lisbon and took it from the Moors. Soon after that, Lisbon became the capital of the Kingdom of Portugal, and since then it has served a couple of different purposes, including a royal palace and a prison. The earthquake severely damaged the castle, and it was in ruins until the 1930’s, when Salazar, the dictator who presided over the country for several decades, decided to have it spruced up a bit. 
  • Sé de Lisboa : At the base of Alfama, this marks the border with Baixa and the start of the climb up the narrow alleyways to the castelo at the top of the hill. It was built way back in 1147, but like most old buildings in Lisbon, it has been rebuilt and tinkered with several times over the years. Down the street in front of the cathedral, you can get a nice view of the front with the Tram 28 in front (though you’ll have to wait for the tram to come by). 
  • Miradouros : Because of its location perched on a hill, there are several great views to be had in Alfama. First is Miradouro das Portas do Sol , which is a great place to come to at sunset for a drink on the patio near the viewpoint. From here, you’ll be looking northeast up the coast, and you’ll be able to see the National Pantheon and the Igreja de São Vicente de Fora, which are two impressive buildings that dominate the skyline. There’s also a statue here of St. Vincent, Lisbon’s patron saint, who is holding what we learned is the symbol of Lisbon – a ship with two ravens. The other is Miradouro de Santa Luzia , which is just a block away (a three minute walk, if that) and has a similar view out over Libson’s north end. 

best tourist place in lisbon

The Best Places to Stay in Alfama

There are a bunch of places to stay in Alfama, from upscale hotels to cozy apartments.

Lucky for you, we’ve gone through and found (read: looked at all the pictures and read reviews until our eyes were glazed over) a collection of places with great reviews that we personally like and would recommend.

Alfama is full of winding, narrow streets, which can make getting to and from your hotel a little bit of a pain. However, what it may lack in convenience it more than makes up for in atmosphere. 

Here are three places to stay in Alfama that caught our eye. 

Hotel Convento do Salvador

Right around the corner from one of the best viewpoints in all of Lisbon – Miradouro das Portas do Sol – is this luxurious hotel with an excellent outdoor terrace and bar. Despite the luxurious feel, the prices are actually relatively affordable, which surprised us. 

The hotel itself is built into a former convent, and is located within walking distance of the castle, a couple of really nice viewpoints, and some great bars and restaurants (do not miss the canned fish at Miss Can !).

This is an eco-friendly hotel, and I particularly like that they bottle tap water into these fancy bottles to stop people buying tons of plastic water bottles over the course of their trip. DRINK THE TAP WATER, it’s totally safe (we drank gallons of it, and we’re still here). 

Rooms are relatively small, but well thought out with modern touches. You’ll have to pay a little extra for a view of the river Tejo from your room, but you can always just head out to the terrace if you’re craving a spectacular view.

Casas do Bairro Conqvistador: Nice Apartments in Alfama

If you’re looking for an apartment in Alfama with a little more space and access to a kitchen, this would be our choice. They have a large selection of one bedroom apartments, some with balconies, with all the bells and whistles you’ll want for your trip. Modern appliances, comfortable beds, a nice sitting area, and more. 

They only have one size of apartments – one bedroom with a sofa bed that can sleep two more – which might not work for bigger groups who want to stay in the same apartment. 

As we looked further into it, we realized that this complex is more than meets the eye. It’s actually a group of different businesses – the apartments, a wine shop, a coffee shop, etc – that are owned by a single Portuguese family. You get 20% off those other businesses when you stay here, which is kind of cool.

Archi-Pelago Alfama Design Suites: Gorgeous Boutique Guesthouse

Another Portuguese-owned hotel brand, we think this gorgeous guesthouse has done a great job blending modern, minimalist style with the historic charm that makes Alfama special and romantic. For example, the terraces that some of the rooms have has a little nook under a stone arch that looks like it was built hundreds of years ago. 

In particular, we love the look of the tilework in some of the rooms and common spaces. 

Rooms are minimalist in terms of design and space, but the point is that you’ll be either out exploring Lisbon, or hanging out in the common spaces rather than being locked in your room during the day. 

There’s also a shared kitchen, which we appreciate because we usually cook for ourselves, at least for some meals.

Bairro Alto: For Foodies and Nightlife

best tourist place in lisbon

First of all, note the spelling (it’s “Bairro” not “Barrio”). Bairro Alto is immediately adjacent to Chiado, and has roots dating all the way back to the 16th Century, when the grid was first laid out and buildings started to be built.

This part of Lisbon saw fewer devastating effects from the earthquake than other parts of the city, but Pombal and the Portuguese government took the opportunity to strike when the iron was hot and modernize the infrastructure in Bairro Alto in the period where the rest of Lisbon was being rebuilt from the ground up. 

Today, Bairro Alto is a nightlife hub, and is full of bars, clubs, and restaurants of all kinds. We walked through it in the morning, when you wouldn’t know that it’s the most raucous part of the city (unless you count the broken glass bottles and the vague smell of beer).

But when you walk through after the sun sets, the area is transformed and you’ll do a double take and say to yourself “wait, is this the same street?” 

Packed nearly wall to wall with tourists and locals alike who are enjoying their drinks in the middle of the street (at least in the warm and mild months…so, like, 10 months of the year?), Bairro Alto comes alive when the sun goes down.

From wine bars to speakeasy cocktail bars to nightclubs that don’t close until the early morning, you’ll find the best nightlife in the city here. 

There are, of course, tradeoffs with being right in the middle of all the action. It’s loud, so don’t expect to stick to your 9:00 pm bedtime (honestly, that’s the only reason why we wouldn’t personally stay here – Matt needs his beauty sleep!). 

Pros and Cons of Bairro Alto

Pros : Bars, restaurants, and clubs, oh my! No matter what kind of bar, pub, or club you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Bairro Alto. If you’re looking to stay near the nightlife so you can stumble home afterwards, this is it. It’s also far less sketchy than the other nightlife hub, Cais do Sodre, so you may get away with only being offered drugs two or three times rather than ten or more. 

Cons : It’s loud. Boisterous. Debaucherous. All the things that you’d expect a nightlife area to be. If you want to get some good sleep, look elsewhere. 

Bairro Alto Highlights

Here are some highlights of Bairro Alto. 

  • Igreja de São Roque : A huge, opulent Jesuit church. Go inside and look at all the dioramas (is that the right word?) featuring scenes from the bible, and gorgeous stone work, tiles, and of course, plenty of gold (though some of it is paint, rather than solid gold). Don’t miss the altar. 
  • Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara : One of the best views of the city, bar none.
  • Garrafeira Alfaia : Great place to try some Portuguese wines, including port, which is made in Porto. They’re very knowledgeable about wine, and will help you find something you like. They also have traditional Portuguese snacks to munch on as you work your way through their long list of wines by the glass. 
  • Vegan Nata : If you happen to be vegan, you can still try a pastel de nata in Lisbon here!
  • A Nossa Casa : This was recommended to me by a friend, and is one of the best food experiences they’ve ever had. However, I wasn’t super comfortable with their gluten free-ness, so we skipped it. That doesn’t mean you should, though!

The Best Places to Stay in Bairro Alto

Here are a few different highly rated places to stay in Bairro Alto for different budgets and travel styles. We’ve done the hard work of combing through hundreds of places to stay to find a few that we, personally, like and would stay at in Bairro Alto on one of our next trips to Lisbon.

Stylish Hotel : Casa das Janelas com Vista

Style on a Budget (Boutique Hostel) : The Independente Hostel and Suites

Spacious Apartments : Bairro Alto Bronze of Art Apartments

Bed & Breakfast : Dear Lisbon – Charming House

Where NOT to Stay in Lisbon

In general, we’d recommend staying near the city center, particularly if you have a short trip (4 days or less). That way, you’ll be within walking distance (or public transportation, but Lisbon is an awesome walking city despite the hills) of most of the main attractions in Lisbon.

That means you should immediately cross off anything further north than Rua do Salitre (ish), which is at the northern edge of Principe Real, anything east of Alfama , and anything further west than Principe Real . 

Within that area, you’ll have plenty of choice in terms of places to stay, whether you’re looking for a quiet, more residential neighborhood, or a hip area with good nightlife. Or just about anything in between. 

We would avoid Cais de Sodre , which is the area immediately around the Time Out Market closest to the river. While we walked through the area at all times of day and felt perfectly safe, it was the place where we were offered drugs the most often. Like, every block. At least once per block.

It’s a good place to spend an evening eating and drinking to your heart’s content, full of bars and restaurants, but we’d recommend staying elsewhere if you can. It’s a good place to stay on a budget, but there are plenty of budget options in each of the other neighborhoods we recommend below, including hostels. 

That’s all we’ve got – we hope we helped you find an amazing place to stay in Lisbon and that the information in this guide was helpful for planning your trip.

Planning a trip to Portugal?  

Here are our other Portugal travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip (even if you have to eat gluten free!).

If there’s no link below, it means we’re still working on it – long, in-depth guides take time! We’re working on it, though, we promise.

  • 10 Days in Portugal: Planning the Perfect Portugal Itinerary
  • 25 Incredible Things to Do in Lisbon: A Complete Guide
  • 3 Days in Lisbon: Planning the Perfect Lisbon Itinerary
  • One Day in Lisbon: The Best of Lisbon in 24 Hours
  • Where to Stay in Lisbon: Our Guide to 4 Amazing Places to Stay
  • Gluten Free Lisbon: A Complete Guide to Lisbon’s Best Gluten Free Restaurants
  • The Best Coffee in Lisbon: 9 Amazing Lisbon Coffee Shops to Add to Your List
  • 3 Days in Porto: Planning the Perfect Porto Itinerary
  • One Day in Porto: How to See the Best of Porto in a Day
  • Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal: The 3 Best Places to Stay

The Algarve:

  • A Complete Guide to Planning an Algarve Road Trip (3-7 Days)
  • Where to Stay in the Algarve: 5 Charming Towns to Use as a Home Base
  • How to Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: Complete Trail Guide

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Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Such great detail and ideas. Will keep your list of gf handy when we travel to Portugal summer ‘24

Thanks Sheryl! Glad you found it helpful. Let us know as you get closer if you have any questions – always happy to help.

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Where to stay in Lisbon? The best neighbourhoods and districts for your holiday in 2024

Lisbon is a wonderful city, boasting characterful districts, outstanding tourist attractions and vibrant nightlife.

On a map, Lisbon appears as a large and sprawling city. However, the main tourist districts are fortunately contained within a relatively compact area. The majority of visitors choose to stay within the tourist districts, and these will make an ideal base if this is your first trip to Lisbon. This article looks at the best neighbourhoods and districts to consider when planning your holiday. Related articles: Introduction to Lisbon – 3 days in Lisbon

The best districts of Lisbon for hotels and accommodation

If you are new to Lisbon, the best five districts and neighbourhoods to be based in are: 1) Baixa 2) Avenida da Liberdade 3) Alfama 4) Bairro Alto/Chiado 5) Cais do Sodré (Read on for more details on these areas) For business travellers, you will ideally want to be based in the Parque das Nações district, which is to the northeast of Lisbon.

Where to stay in Lisbon  map

Along with central Lisbon, the other popular tourist and accommodation areas of the city are shown in the map below. The dotted section shows the area of the first map and the route of the four metro lines (Red, Blue, Green and Yellow).

Where to stay in Lisbon  map

Outer districts of Lisbon: 1) Belem 2) Alcantara 3) Estrela 4) Campo Pequeno 5) Parque das Nações 6) Bairro Alto & Cais do Sodré 7) Avenida da Liberdade 8) Baixa 9) Alfama

The best areas of Lisbon

The most popular areas to stay • Baixa district – The grand and historic centre of Lisbon • The Avenida da Liberdade – A smart and stylish shopping district with many high-end hotels • Alfama district – Steep hills, narrow streets and bags of character, and lots of options for rental rooms and apartments.

For a nightlife and excitement-based holiday • Bairro Alto– Party district, don’t expect much sleep • Cais do Sodré– Former red-light district and now nightlife hub where anything goes

Less touristy and more Portuguese atmosphere • Graça – Bustling local’s district • Príncipe Real – Smart, calm and Lisbon’s most exclusive district • Estrela – Peaceful and prosperous district

Alternative locations • Belem district – Popular area as a day trip, but it is a long way from the city centre • Alcantara – Artisan area of Lisbon, centred around the LX factory • Campo Pequeno – The original business district of Lisbon with good connections to the city.

It’s my first visit to Lisbon, which district should I stay in?

If you’re new to Lisbon, it is recommended to be within the Baixa district or close to the Avenida da Liberdade.

This area offers a wide selection of restaurants, bars and shops, as well as being close to many of Lisbon’s main tourist attractions. You will also be within walking distance of the vibrant nightlife of the Bairro Alto or Cais do Sodré districts, but far enough away to avoid the late-night noise and ensuing chaos.

The Alfama district is another popular location for first-time visitors. Alfama is one of the oldest districts of Lisbon, and has a wide selection of characterful apartments hidden within its warren of alleys and side streets that make up the district. The only downside to Alfama are the many steep hills. Related articles: Alfama guide – Baixa guide

Choose your area before looking for accommodation!

Always choose which location in Lisbon you wish to be based in before looking for accommodation. This may sound obvious, but it is all too easy to be sucked in by an amazing discount or outstanding reviews, without really considering whether the area suits your needs. Tip: If you are to be based a little further out, always make sure you’re close to a metro station.

Where for a more relaxed holiday to Lisbon?

The Baixa/Alfama/Bairro Alto areas lie within the heart of the bustling tourist centre, but you may prefer a calmer location for your holiday. If this is the case, consider the districts of Estrela or Principe Real, which are prosperous and affluent neighbourhoods with classical houses, leafy streets and cafes filled with Portuguese locals.

While these areas may sound appealing, they can feel remote from the tourist buzz, and significantly more walking will be required when visiting the city’s main attractions.

An alternative is Graça, which is a working-class Portuguese district that is full of character.

For the business traveller

For a business trip, it is best to be based within the Parque das Nações district. This area is packed with modern business hotels, as well as numerous restaurants and bars aimed at business travellers.

The district also has excellent transport links covering the whole of Lisbon. The airport is only a 10-minute metro ride away, with the historic centre just 25 minutes away. The main train station of Lisbon (the Estação do Oriente) is in the centre of Parque das Nações, and from here there are trains to Porto and the north or the Algarve and the south.

Partying, stag or hen group: Where to be based?

For a focused nightlife trip to Lisbon you will want to be based within the Cais do Sodré district. Until recently, this was seen as a seedy and tough neighbourhood, however it has been completely transformed with the creation of Pink Street. The area now has an urban, trendy and socially relaxed atmosphere, and is the only part of Lisbon that welcomes stag and hen parties. If you are planning a stag or hen trip during the summer season (from May to October), a much better choice would be Albufeira in the Algarve.

Where to avoid in Lisbon?

Lisbon is like all major cities in that there is a mix of affluent and more deprived areas. A diverse, culturally rich and gritty urban district may appeal to some tourists, but may not suit others. It is difficult to say where to avoid, as this is subjective and based on opinion.

Some of central Lisbon’s less desirable districts follow the green metro line and include Intendente and Anjos. Mouraria is a multicultural district that is enjoyable to visit, but some tourists may prefer not to be based there. Please note: A clued-up and worldly traveller could be very happy in these areas, but they are not recommended for older or solo female travellers.

Further Afield

In general, we’d recommend not being based further north than the Campo Pequeno district or further west than the IP7 expressway (GPS: 38.73367, -9.16857). There is not much to see in the north-eastern side of Lisbon between Graca and Parque das Nações, and is just nondescript residential estates.

If this is your first visit to Lisbon, avoid being based on the southern side of the Tejo Estuary (in Almada and Cacilhas), as these are just residential towns and travelling to the centre of Lisbon requires a long bus or ferry rides. A pleasant alternative to being based in the city is the pretty resort town of Cascais .

Accommodation with a car

If you are planning a holiday purely based in Lisbon, with day trips to Sintra and Cascais, then there really is no need for a rental car. If you are hiring a rental car in Lisbon, ensure the hotel has car parking, as it can be very difficult to find space within the historic centre. Tip: Consider hiring a car only if you intend to leave Lisbon, and not for the entire duration you are based in the city. Related articles: The best driving routes around Lisbon

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A complete list of all of our Lisbon articles

Getting started

  • Lisbon introduction
  • How long in Lisbon?
  • Lisbon for seniors
  • Where to stay in Lisbon?
  • Cost to visit Lisbon
  • Lisbon's best museums
  • Lisbon for a rainy day
  • Lisbon at Christmas
  • Is Lisbon walkable
  • Lisbon's sunsets
  • Is Lisbon safe?
  • Lisbon on a budget
  • Portuguese National Anthem

Lisbon's districts

  • Parque Nações
  • Cais do Sodre
  • Príncipe Real

Sightseeing

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

Transport guides

Lisbon airport Airport to city centre Terminal 2 Metro guide Cruise ship guide Ferry guide To Christo Rei Statue Lisbon to Porto

Itineraries

24 hours in Lisbon 48 hours in Lisbon Lisbon in 3 days 1 week in Lisbon A weekend city break 5 days in Lisbon Lisbon to Porto Tour

  • Lisbon beach guide
  • The Lisbon coastline
  • Praia Carcavelos

Lisbon Trams

  • Tram No. 15

Lisbon's stations

  • Orient train station
  • Apolonia train station
  • Cais do Sodré station
  • Sete Rios bus station
  • Rossio train station
  • Lisbon or Barcelona
  • Tallinn in July

The Lisbon region

Day trips from Lisbon

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

Central Portugal

  • Berlengas Islands

Portugal Guides

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

North Portugal

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

South Portugal

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

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11 Best Things to Do in Lisbon with Teenagers

T he Portuguese capital of Lisbon is a fabulous city for all ages. It is one of the safest cities worldwide, so it’s a great option for a family trip. Lisbon is culturally rich with many historic sites and museums. It might sound boring to teenagers, but some are really cool! There is always something going on in this lively and vibrant city. Be sure to check out any special events, festivals, or music performances that are scheduled during your visit. If you’re traveling to Lisbon with teenagers, there are plenty of places to explore! Check out some of our favorites.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Best Places to Visit in Lisbon with Teenagers

​ The best way to explore Lisbon is by foot. However, there are plenty of steep hills throughout the city, so it might take longer to walk from one place to the next.

We had good luck using Uber if we needed it, but there are also plenty of taxis and tuk tuk drivers to take you to your destination. We also used the  hop-on hop-off bus tour  for transportation one day because it has several routes through the city and saved our tired feet. No matter how you choose to explore Lisbon, we are sure the whole family will enjoy Portugal’s capital city.

1. The Oceanarium

The  Oceanarium  is one of the most visited places in Lisbon amongst families. It’s one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe, and it’s located in Parque das Nações. The aquarium features a central tank that holds an incredible 5 million liters of saltwater! 

The aquarium is designed to represent the open ocean, and you can discover many unique species of marine life in the water. Keep an eye out for rays, sunfish, sharks, and fish from around the world. There are dedicated spots where otters and penguins play and do their shenanigans. 

If there are younger children in your family there are plenty of educational opportunities, and the Oceanário de Lisboa is a highlight for many visitors. 

2. Go surfing

If you or your kids prefer to be in the ocean, why not try surfing lessons? Lisbon is very close to The Atlantic Ocean, and you can find several surf schools along the coast. Do you know how to surf? You can also rent your gear here. 

Ericeira is a famous surf town, but Praia do Guincho is closer to Lisbon. Other popular surf spots are Praia da Adraga and Costa da Caparica. 

Lisbon’s surf season runs from September to May, but that means the waves are also higher. The surf in Lisbon can be challenging during this time, so it’s best for intermediate to advanced surfers. 

Did you know some of the highest waves surfed are in Nazaré Portugal? Between October and March, you can expect ginormous waves here, and it is a must-see if you like surfing.

In summer, the waves are smaller and perfect for learning how to surf. The ocean will also be slightly warmer!

The surf camps offer lessons and coaching for all levels of surfers. They also usually provide all the necessary equipment, including wetsuits and boards, and can arrange transportation to the best surf spots.

3. Take a day trip to Sintra

Sintra is a picturesque town located just outside of Lisbon, and you can easily reach it in 40 minutes by car. You can also use public transportation to reach Sintra from Lisbon by taking the metro from Rossio Train Station to Sintra at the end of the route. If you want someone else to do all of the transportation, consider  booking a local guide  to take you to Sintra.

Sintra was a popular destination for Portuguese royalty and aristocracy, and the place is famous for its many palaces and mansions. There are many historic landmarks, including the Moorish Castle, the Pena Palace, and the Quinta da Regaleira. In addition to the stunning architecture, there are fabulous gardens that you can visit. 

Sintra is located within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, which is also an excellent place for hiking. Along the coast of Sintra, you’ll discover some of the best beaches close to Lisbon. 

If you’re up for a coastal hike, Praia da Ursa is one of the area’s most beautiful beaches! However, Praia da Adraga and Praia Grande are a lot easier to reach.

4. Visit the LX Factory

In the Alcântara neighborhood of Lisbon, you can visit the LX Factory . This complex was once a textile manufacturing factory but has become a cultural and creative hub. It’s a popular spot for all ages due to the many restaurants, shops, street art, and design studios. 

Check out the sculpture Bumblebee by Bordalo II, visit the coolest bookstore  Ler Devagar  or discover the fabulous shops. There are often events such as concerts, DJ nights, and cultural festivals. So from early morning until night, there is always something to do here!

5. Check out the street art

Speaking of street art, Lisbon has plenty of it! It’s scattered throughout the city, and a  guided tour   will ensure you’ll get to see the most important displays. 

Bordalo II is one of Lisbon’s favorite artists, and he creates sculptures and murals from waste. Discover the artworks of Raposa, Big Raccoon, Monkey, Pelicans, and Iberian Lynx in the city. Vhills is another prominent artist with works all over Lisbon. Brazilian artists Os Gemeos, Italy’s BLU, and Spain’s SAM3 all left a mark on the city! 

Other well-known works are from Pichiavo at Rua de Santa Apolonia, the revolutionary mural by Shepard Fairey on Rua Natalia Correia, and chief Raoni Metuktire by Eduardo Kobra on Rua Alberto José Pessoa.

6. Take a ride on Tram 28

Tram 28 is an icon in Lisbon, and a ride on the historic cable car is a favorite of many! The tram has been in operation since 1914 and is one of the last remaining traditional streetcar routes in Lisbon. It was originally used to transport goods and people, but today it is a popular tourist attraction. 

Unfortunately, the queue can be long, but there is also an option to take an old historical tram tour instead. The tram ride goes through some of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Lisbon! If you have a public transport card, you pay a little less, but it’s public transport, so you pay per ride. There are, however, many interesting points where you can disembark. 

Examples are Miradouro da Graça, Sé Cathedral , Miradouro de Santa Luzia, and Igreja de São Vicente de Fora, which are all located in the Alfama district. 

The endpoint of the train is on the other side of town, close to Jardim da Estrela. While Tram 28 is a classic Lisbon experience, it’s not the only way to see the city’s historic neighborhoods. Walking tours, bike rentals, and other forms of transportation are also available, offering a more personalized and flexible way to explore the city’s many sights and sounds.

7. Discover Alfama

Alfama  is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon. It’s also a charming place with many narrow streets and tourist highlights. On top of the hill, you can visit Castelo de São Jorge (St. George’s Castle). You can walk along the castle walls to enjoy some of the best views over Lisbon! The surrounding park is full of peacocks, and around the castle are many beautiful streets. 

Besides the castle, there are many other viewing platforms throughout the city. From Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia, you enjoy a stunning view over Alfama and the river Tagus. 

Discover the small streets full of azulejo tiles and enjoy a night of Fado. Alfama is the birthplace of Fado, a traditional Portuguese music style that is often described as melancholic and soulful. There are many Fado bars and restaurants where you can experience this unique cultural tradition. 

On Tuesdays and Saturdays, it’s fun to visit the flea markets at Feira da Ladra. And if you’re in Lisbon in June, Alfama is THE place to be. The Santo António is celebrated throughout Lisbon, but most celebrations are in this neighborhood. There are parades, street parties, and a lot of sardines!

8. Fun museums to visit in Lisbon with teenagers

Although it doesn’t rain often, having a backup plan for your family vacation is always a good idea. Lisbon has a lot of museums, especially in the Belém neighborhood! Some of the museums that teens might like in this area include –

  • Berardo Collection Museum (modern art)
  • The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT)
  • The National Coach Museum (a collection of horse-drawn carriages)
  • The Maritime Museum
  • Calouste Gulbenkian Planetarium
  • National Archaeological Museum.

A relatively new museum in Belém is  Quake – The Lisbon Earthquake Experience . This one is a bit more serious, in the sense that it’s about the destroying 1755 earthquake that hit Lisbon and many other places in Portugal.

You travel back in time to relive Lisbon’s most dramatic and transformative event and learn more about the history and science of earthquakes. It’s an immersive experience with simulators, video mapping, and interactive 4D technology. This is sure to be a favorite for teens!

Belém is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Jerónimos Monastery which dates to the 16th century, and Belem Tower (Torre de Belem) which was a departure point for many of Portugal’s famous early explorers, including Magellan and Vasco da Gama. While you’re exploring the area, be sure to stop at Pasteis de Belem, which has been baking the famous pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) since 1837.

If you need another place to explore on a rainy day in Lisbon, check out the  3D Fun Art Museum Lisboa . As the name implies, everything here is in 3D, which is great for pictures! You can take pictures upside down and in distorted rooms with illusions. Your imagination can roam freely here! It’s a fun activity for all families! 

9. Ride the Santa Justa Lift to the Bairro Alto

​ The Santa Justa Lift, an iconic elevator towering over the city, offers breathtaking panoramic views of central Lisbon and beyond. This is the easiest way to get between the Baixa district and the Bairro Alto. A ride is included in a 24-hour Lisbon transportation ticket.

Once you’ve arrived at the top, walk to the Carmo Convent and the convent ruins. This building was mostly destroyed in 1755 by the deadliest earthquake in Lisbon’s history. Teens will be fascinated by the remains of this building with its gigantic arches and columns. There’s also a small archaeology museum on-site that’s included in the ticket price.

10. Outdoor Activities on the Water

If your teens want more than surfing, you can visit Lisbon beaches such as Praia de Carcavelos, Praia do Tamariz, and Praia das Avencas. 

Cascais is also a lovely beach town to visit, and from Lisbon, you can travel here easily by train. You can also take the ferry across the Tagus River and see the Christ statue in Almada. There is a fabulous view over Lisbon and the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge from this point. 

From here, you can easily reach Costa da Caparica, with many more beaches. Along these coastal towns are opportunities to try kayaking, kitesurfing, and canoeing. You can even  book a sailing tour  on the Tagus to enjoy a relaxing view from the water. Most ships depart from Belém, and a  sunset tour  is especially magical.

11. Try all the food!

​ Portuguese cuisine does not disappoint and teens will love a  Lisbon food tour  that allows them to try bite-size dishes of local favorites. If you don’t have time for a tour, be sure to make a stop at Time Out Market in the Mercado da Ribeira. This food hall showcases some of the best chefs in the city, and teens will love the variety of dishes. Our teens loved it so much, we ate there for dinner two out of three nights!

Lisbon is the perfect spot for a vacation with teens. With beaches, a rich history, unique museums, and delicious food, it’s sure to be a trip they will never forget!

About the author : Meet Marga, a travel writer, and photographer who used to be a flight attendant and traveled extensively for many years. After settling in Portugal, she started the Discover Portugal blog with insightful and engaging travel stories.

The post 11 Best Things to Do in Lisbon with Teenagers appeared first on Kids Are A Trip™ .

Discover the top activities for a memorable family trip to Lisbon with teens! Explore historic neighborhoods, indulge in delicious local cuisine, ride vintage trams, soak up the sun on beautiful beaches, and experience vibrant street art. Lisbon offers an unforgettable blend of culture, history, and excitement that will captivate teenagers and create lasting memories.

COMMENTS

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    Also protected as World Heritage, it looks like a small castle out of a fairy tale, and is a symbol of the Age of Discovery . See the Belém Tower Visitor's Guide . 3. St. George's Castle. Lisbon's highest hill has been crowned by fortifications for literally thousands of years.

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

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

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    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 ...

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    15 - FADO. Listening to the wistful warbling of Fado music is one of those things to do in Lisbon that everyone should experience at least once. A night of Fado usually takes place in a small local restaurant where a solo voice is accompanied by Portuguese guitarra. It's a thoroughly moving experience.

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

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    It sits high up amidst the mythical Mountains of the Moon, displaying elegant baroque churches, colorful mansions and the grand palaces of former Portuguese kings and queens. Suggested tour: Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril: Full-Day Tour from Lisbon. 5. Enjoy the azulejos in the National Tile Museum.

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    Vintage Landmark. Great way to visit two areas of the city. Inexpensive. Why it's awesome: The Santa Justa Lift is an elevator in Lisbon and is the fastest way and most exciting way to get from the Baixa neighbourhood to the Bairro Alto district, two places you should explore whilst you're riding this vintage elevator!

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    14. See the Belém Tower. The pastel de nata are reason enough for some to make the trip to Belém, but the tower - built between the years 1515 and 1521 - is not to be missed. It was designed to serve as both a gateway to the city of Lisbon and as a defence against possible invasions and attacks from the Tagus.

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    Alfama is Lisbon's oldest neighborhood. This maze of windy, hilly streets was relatively untouched by the 1755 earthquake. It is one of the top places to visit for first timers in Lisbon and home to some of Lisbon's most famous sights. This area is extremely touristy. It also can be one of the most difficult to get to and around.

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