lisbon tourism map

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Lisbon Tourist Map

Where to locate the main tourist attractions and neighborhoods.

A lthough most tourists nowadays use their cellphone apps to locate just about anything, a tourist map is always helpful, as it gives a general idea of the location and rough distances between the main attractions. On the first map above, you can locate Lisbon’s most popular sights and major landmarks, while the second map shows the attractions of the labyrinthine Alfama district and the third helps you locate all the monuments, museums, train station and stops of tram 15 in the Belém district.

Starting in the west, in the city’s westernmost district ( Belém , best reached by train ), you find the largest concentration of must-see monuments and museums, including the Jerónimos Monastery , the Belém Tower , the Discoveries Monument , the MAC/CCB Museum (formerly named Berardo Collection Museum), the Coaches Museum , and the MAAT (the west wing of the monastery also houses the very popular Maritime Museum and the National Archaeology Museum ). In this part of town you also find two of the city’s most beautiful gardens, the Tropical Botanical Garden and the Ajuda Botanical Garden . This last one is found across the road from the royal residence, Ajuda Palace .

To the east is the neighborhood of Alcântara , which stands in the shadow of 25 de Abril Bridge . Right under the bridge are the warehouses-turned-restaurants of Docas de Santo Amaro and the trendy shops and eateries of Lx Factory . Nearby is the Orient Museum and the little-visited park Tapada das Necessidades .

Then there are the neighboring districts of Madragoa and Santos , home to one of Portugal’s finest art collections, in the Ancient Art Museum . Up the hill from here is Estrela , where you find the domed Basílica da Estrela , across from one of Lisbon’s favorite parks, the Jardim da Estrela . It’s just a short walk from the neighborhood of Campo de Ourique , which is also within walking distance of the observation deck at the top of the Amoreiras Towers and of the monumental aqueduct .

Lisbon's “central park” ( Edward VII Park ) isn’t far, by the modern district of Avenidas Novas , which is home to the world-class Calouste Gulbenkian Museum . To the south is the city’s main boulevard ( Avenida da Liberdade ), which leads to downtown and the neighborhoods of the “Old Town.” To the west of Baixa ’s (downtown) big squares ( Rossio and Praça do Comércio ) and its iconic elevator (the Santa Justa Elevator ) are the historic districts of Chiado and Bairro Alto , as well as the waterfront neighborhood of Cais do Sodré , home to the city’s most popular market and food hall, Mercado da Ribeira . To the east is Alfama , topped by the castle , and home to centuries-old landmarks like the cathedral , Casa dos Bicos , São Vicente de Fora Monastery , and the National Pantheon . The picturesque streets of Mouraria and the breathtaking viewpoints of Graça are located further up the hill.

Outside the central tourist areas is the beautiful and unique Tile Museum , while further to the east is modern Lisbon, the Parque das Nações district. It’s not far from the airport , and is visited for its pleasant waterfront, with the Vasco da Gama Tower and Vasco da Gama Bridge on one end, and the spectacular Oceanarium on the other.

Back in the center, Cais do Sodré Station connects you to the attractions across the river -- the Monument to Christ and the picturesque former fishing community of Cacilhas , which offer a panoramic view of Lisbon. The same station is also the departure point to the beaches of Cascais (you may also find this Lisbon beaches map useful).

For other attractions, see the guides to each neighborhood, and check out the list of 50 things to see and do in Lisbon .

Zoom in and out on the map below to locate available hotels by Lisbon's main attractions and neighborhoods, and check prices and availability:

Complete Lisbon Guide

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

Where to Stay

Hotels in Alfama and the Castle

Hotels on Avenida da Liberdade

Hotels in Bairro Alto

Hotels in Baixa

Hotels in Chiado

Hotels in Príncipe Real

Hotels in Avenidas Novas

Neighborhoods

Avenida da Liberdade

Avenidas Novas

Bairro Alto

Cais do Sodré

Campo de Ourique

Parque das Nações

Príncipe Real

What to See & Do

Top 50 Attractions

Top 30 Museums

Top 30 Viewpoints

Best Beaches

Best Day Trips

Itinerary Advice

Family Attractions

On a Rainy Day

1 Day in Lisbon

Tourist Card

Tourist Map

Most Popular Attractions

Jerónimos Monastery

Belém Tower

Castle of St. George

Discoveries Monument

Ajuda Palace

Santa Justa Elevator

Rua Augusta Arch

Lisbon Cathedral

Coaches Museum

Tile Museum

MAC/CCB Museum

Ancient Art Museum

Pena Palace (Sintra)

Most Popular Beaches

Praia da Conceição

Costa da Caparica

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo

Praia da Ursa

Transportation

Travel Cards

Tram 15 to Belém

Train to Belém

Bica Funicular

Glória Funicular

Bus 101 to Cristo Rei

Hop-On Hop-Off Buses

Airport Guide

Airport Transportation

Rossio Station

Santa Apolónia Station

Oriente Station

Cais do Sodré Station

Sete Rios Bus Station

Cacilhas Bus Station

Portugal Travel Guides

• Neighborhood
• Topographic

Lisbon tourist map

You can find on this page the Lisbon tourist map to print and to download in PDF. The Lisbon tourist attractions map presents the monuments, museums, parks and points of interest of Lisbon in Portugal.

Map of Lisbon points of interest

The Lisbon sightseeing map shows all tourist places and points of interest of Lisbon. This tourist attractions map of Lisbon will allow you to easily plan your visits of landmarks of Lisbon in Portugal. The Lisbon tourist map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is one of Europe most beautiful and cosmopolitan cities that attracts tourists from all over the world. Set over a series of hills near the mouth of the River Tagus, it is a place inextricably linked with the sea as its mentioned in Lisbon tourist map. Intrepid navigators embarked from here in the 15th and 16th centuries to sail unknown waters and chart new lands, and the legacy of this golden Age of Discovery underpins much of Lisbon culture and heritage.

Lisbon is a colorful and vibrant tourist destination. Renowned for its warm and sunny disposition, Lisbon is blessed with a wealth of historic monuments, world-class museums, and a host of other fabulous things to do that can easily be worked into a single or multi-day itinerary. You can explore the narrow streets of the old quarter, stroll the riverbank promenade, or wander through verdant parks and gardens as you can see in Lisbon tourist map.

Lisbon is home to an attention-grabbing Moorish castle, whimsical Manueline architecture nodding to the Age of Discoveries, and vintage trams rattling from one landmark, gallery and hilltop lookout to the next (see Lisbon tourist map). Lisbon offers a combination of old-world history, a great climate and safety that attracts many tourists again and again.

Lisbon attractions map

Map of Lisbon tourist places

The Lisbon attractions map shows the main monuments, museums and parks of Lisbon. This tourist places map of Lisbon will allow you to easily plan your visits of tourist attractions of Lisbon in Portugal. The Lisbon attractions map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

The most recognized of Lisbon major attractions, St. George Castle commands a glorious position near Alfama on the crown of a hill overlooking the Portuguese capital as its shown in Lisbon attractions 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. 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 visitor attractions.

The National Museum of Ancient Art is one of Lisbon great cultural attractions, and a "must see" on any tourist itinerary. West of the city center, near Alcântara as its mentioned in Lisbon attractions map, 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.

Arguably the most emblematic attraction of all Lisbon historical monuments, the Belém Tower squats in the shallows near the mouth of the River Tagus as a symbol of Portugal extraordinary Age of Discovery during the 16th century. Located somewhat off the tourist trail east of the city center as you can see in Lisbon attractions map, the National Tile Museum is worth seeking out for its unique collection of azulejos - decorative tiles - and the fabulously ornate Igreja Madre de Deus.

Lisbon zoo map

Map of Lisbon zoo park

The Lisbon zoo map shows recommended tours of the Lisbon Zoological Park. This zoo map of Lisbon will allow you to easily find out where each animal is and where to picnic in the Zoological Park of Lisbon in Portugal. The Lisbon zoo map is downloadable in PDF, printable and free.

Lisbon Zoo is the zoological garden of Lisbon, Portugal, founded in 1884. It was the product of the efforts of Dr. Van Der Laan, owner of the largest aviary in Portugal at the time, with the support of Bento de Sousa, Sousa Martins, and May Figueira. In 1905 it was transferred to the present location in Sete Rios ("Seven Rivers"), Quinta das Laranjeiras as its shown in Lisbon zoo map. About 2,000 animals of more than 300 species are represented, as follows: 114 mammals, 157 birds, 56 reptiles, 5 amphibians.

The mission of the Lisbon Zoo includes the conservation and breeding of endangered species, as well as scientific research, and educational and recreational activities. About 800,000 people visit the zoo annually (see Lisbon zoo map). Founded in 1884, the Lisbon Zoo was the first park with fauna and flora in the Iberian Peninsula. Its founders were several - Dr. Pedro Van Der Laan, José Thomaz Sousa Martins and Barão de Kessler - who had the support of several personalities, Rei D. Fernando II and the zoologist José Vicente Barboza do Bocage.

Discover the best places Lisbon Zoo has to offer you, discover what to see and where to go. Find the Sumatran Tigers in the dense vegetation of the Rainforest, observe lions, giraffes and elephants behaviour at the dry African Savannah, and dazzle with the majestic flight of the colourful birds of South America as you can see in Lisbon zoo map.

Lisbon Map - Interactive Map of Lisbon

Information about the map.

Check out the main monuments, museums, squares, churches and attractions in our map of Lisbon. Click on each icon to see what it is.

To help you find your way once you get to your destination, the map you print out will have numbers on the various icons that correspond to a list with the most interesting tourist attractions. This way, you’ll be able to see where each attraction is.

Icons on the Lisbon interactive map

The map is very easy to use:

• Check out information about the destination: click on the color indicators.
• Move across the map: shift your mouse across the map.
• Zoom in: double click on the left-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel upwards.
• Zoom out: double click on the right-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel downwards.

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2-Day Itinerary

Since Lisbon has become one of the most popular destinations in Europe and is a perfect city to discover during a long weekend, we have created this 48-hour itinerary of Portugal’s capital city.

General Information

Lisbon is the capital and the most influential city in Portugal. It lies on the Atlantic Ocean and River Tagus. Its privileged location made it an important city, controlling as it does a great part of the Atlantic.

The Ultimate Lisbon Map Guide to Get Around The City

We all need a great Lisbon map to know our way around the city. A trustworthy guide that can be understood without words. A Lisbon map which tells us where should we go, what should we visit and how can we get there.

Well, we are here to help you, so we collected everything that you should know in one ultimate Lisbon map guide.

Prepare yourself to learn everything you ever wanted to know about the different districts and public transportation webs of Lisbon!

First of all, let’s give a look at the whole picture! A real Lisbon map must cover all the neighborhoods, even the less famous ones.

And actually, just because there are no big tourist attractions in some of the districts, it doesn’t mean, they are not worth a visit at all.

The Lisbon neighborhood map

Here’s a brief guide of our colorful Lisbon map, explaining a bit about the dynamics of this amazing city.

The green area

As you can see, Santa Clara, Lumiar, Carnide, São Domingos de Benfica and Benfica belongs to the green area in our Lisbon map.

These neighborhoods are a bit out of the historical center, the architecture is pretty different from the charming, tile-covered houses.

We can find mostly apartment blocks, big roads and stadiums, close to the highways.

But just because we are far from downtown that doesn’t mean, there is nothing to see here. First of all, we have to talk about Benfica Stadium.

The Benfica football team is one of the world’s most supported football club, therefore the stadium is a famous pilgrim spot of the fans.

The other attraction of the area is the Zoo in Sete Rios, which belongs to São Domingos de Benfica.

During our visit to the zoo, we leave our Lisbon map behind to make a trip around the world and meet with all of our favorite animals from the dolphins to the tigers.

Do you want to learn more about Benfica? Click here and read our detailed Benfica guide.

The blue area

In our Lisbon map we signed with blue Olivais, Parque das Nações, Marvila and Beato districts.

This area has its own center in Parque das Nações that is actually important regarding the whole economy of Lisbon.

Most of the big companies have their offices there, such as Vodafone, Sony and a lot more.

Nevertheless, they are not the best reason to visit this neighborhood. Then what is? Well, for example, the unique train station of Oriente. Or the Vasco da Gama bridge, which is the longest bridge in Europe.

Just take a walk in the park and discover the futuristic buildings, concert halls and museums while enjoying nature and the proximity of the river at the same time. Oh, and don’t skip the Oceanarium either!

Europe’s biggest and most breathtaking aquarium is definitely worth a visit, both for kids and adults.

Read all about the Lisbon Oceanarium .  You buy the ticket on Get Your Guide when you click here .

The orange area

Looking at the Lisbon map we can discover the orange area, which contains Alvalade, Areeiro, Avenidas Novas, Arroios, Campolide and Santo António.

These neighborhoods are basically the ones where we are already pretty close to the center, but we are still avoiding the crowds of tourists.

Safe and pretty districts where we are lucky to live if we are looking for calmer but still easily accessible areas.

The yellow area

Alcântara, Ajuda and the famous Belém are all signed with yellow in our Lisbon map. The most interesting parts of these areas are located close to the river’s coastline.

There we can find the LX Factory under the 25th April bridge, with its modern restaurants as well as the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) where we can climb up to the top and look at the spectacular view.

Arriving to Belém we have plenty of places to see. The Belém Tower, which is one of the symbols of Lisbon and the Discoveries Monument, which are both remembering the big discoveries that started exactly from there.

The Jerónimos Monastery is also a must see if we are hungry for culture, but if we are hungry for something totally different, we are still in a good place.

Trying the famous Pastéis de Belém is obligatory. These custard tarts are really worth the few minutes waiting in the line.

The purple area

Here we are, eventually, we arrived at the most touristic neighborhoods of our Lisbon map. Campo de Ourique, Estrela, Santa Maria Maior, São Vicente and Penha de Franca.

The downtown with its seven hills, viewpoints and attractions. And what are those?

Get familiar with our Lisbon map for tourists and read more below!

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Lisbon map for tourists

To understand what you can find and where, in the Lisbon map for tourists, we divided the downtown and gave a number for each neighborhood.

1. Avenida da Liberdade

In our Lisbon map, we can see how the big avenue of the city is crossing downtown. It starts up the hill at the Marquês de Pombal Monument, right under the VII Eduardo Park.

From the top of the park, we have an amazing view down to the Avenida da Liberdade and to the whole center. While walking down on the avenue, we pass by luxury shops in the shade of the fabulous palm trees.

If we continue our walk down on the Lisbon map, we can see the nicest parts of the center.

From the end of Avenida de Liberdade, we have to keep going down on Rossio square and enter to the famous shopping street, Rua Augusta. This leads us to the majestic square, Praça do Comércio which is facing the river Tejo .

3. Cais do Sodré

There are two things you have to know about Cais do Sodré. First of all, there is a train station where we can take the train to visit Cascais , the scenic little town only 40 minutes away.

Secondly, we can find the Pink Street here, where every door leads to a club or a bar. To know more about it, read our guide for the night owls.

Chiado is one of the most charming but at the same time most touristic part of our Lisbon map.

The area is full of nice little coffee shops, theaters and bookstores, including the oldest bookstore in the world, called Bertrand Chiado.

5. Bairro Alto

The labyrinth of bars and clubs where locals and tourists get together for a few beers after sunset.

Want to know more about the nightlife in Bairro Alto? Click here !

6. Alfama and Castelo

Alfama is an eclectic mixture of its heritage from the poor times and the artistic changes of nowadays. A beautiful and atmospheric neighborhood where we can just lose ourselves for hours.

And what do we find during our wonderings between the narrow streets? Some of the most important historical buildings in the Lisbon map.

The Castle of São Jorge, the National Pantheon and the Sé cathedral are all located here.

7. Príncipe Real

Príncipe Real occupies the area above Bairro Alto. Today it is one of the most trending neighborhoods on the whole Lisbon map, thanks to the great location, the stylish coffee places, cute parks and fancy restaurants.

In front of the Basílica da Estrela we can find something totally unexpected.

Behind the fences hides the beautiful Estrela Park. It might seem like a detour in our Lisbon map, but totally worth a visit.

We can lay down in the shadow of tropical trees or have a coffee at a table, looking at the idyllic lake with ducks and turtles.

Graça is basically just as nice and atmospheric as Alfama, except that the crowd of tourists is not as big here.

Old houses, narrow streets and beautiful viewpoints are waiting for us at this point of the Lisbon map.

10. Mouraria

Mouraria is the center of the immigrants, coming from outside of Europe since the early establishment of the city. Surprisingly, it is also the birthplace of Fado, the most traditional Portuguese music.

Would you like to see a Fado performance, check our article about the best places to listen to this sad and touching music.

11. Martim Moniz, Intendente and Anjos

Probably these neighborhoods are the most multicultural spots in our Lisbon map. In case you love Chinese, Indian or Japanese cuisine, here you will not leave the restaurants disappointed.

Lisbon Map – Metro edition

To have a clear idea in our mind about the Lisbon map and how to get from A to B, it is useful to memorize the metro routes a little bit.

There are four metro lines in Lisbon. The blue one, which runs between Santa Apolónia and Reboleira, the yellow between Rato and Odivelas, the green between Telheiras and Cais do Sodré and the red one between São Sebastião and the Airport.

These lines pretty much cover the whole city, having a metro station at every important spot. It makes the metro the fastest and most reliable public transport option in Lisbon.

How to change metro lines?

It can often happen that we have to change between the lines to arrive at our destination. It is not hard at all, thanks to the Portuguese and English were written instructions around all the stations.

There is a Lisbon map with the metro lines in every single vehicle, from which we can be informed of where to change/get off. During the transition there are signs everywhere, telling us the right directions.

Ohh, and we can even use the same ticket as long as we are not leaving the metro gates.

But how can we buy our metro ticket?

It is easier than it seems. Down in every metro station, we can find the vending machines. As a step one, we have to buy a 7 Colinas or Viva Viagem electronic card for €0.50 (7 Colinas and Viva Viagem are the same, the only difference is the name).

Now we have a rechargeable card that we can use for one year. At the same vending machines we can charge it with single tickets for €1.45 each, or we can decide to buy a 24 hours ticket for €6.30.

It is very important to keep our card since we will need it not only when we are entering at the gates, but for leaving as well.

Is it worth it to try the metro?

I would recommend visiting the Lisbon metro lines, even if we don’t need to use them. It is because every single metro station has a different style, decorated by different artists.

In the airport station we can meet with the caricatures of famous Portuguese writers and poets, in Oriente we see all our favorite comic book heroes and in Cais do Sodré there are giant white rabbits.

My personal favorite is the colorful metro station in Olaias, where a huge glass sardine is hanging from the ceilings.

We can even do our metro tour outside of the rush hour since the metro runs from 6 am to 1 am. This way we can avoid the crowd and take our time to discover the stations.

Lisbon Map – Tram edition

If we give a look at our Lisbon map, we might wonder if we can get to our destination by metro.

It might be difficult because inside downtown the stations are often a bit far from the important buildings, viewpoints. In case we don’t want to walk that much, the tram is a great solution.

Which tram should we take in Lisbon?

As we can see on the map, there are five tram lines operating, touching every spot that might be interesting for us.

Especially, the famous tram 28E , which starts in Campo de Ourique, going through Estrela, Chiado, Baixa even up to Alfama and Graça before arriving at Martim Moniz.

This line operates a charming old vehicle, which is definitely worth a try. Although, we have to be aware that the tram will be full of tourists and often pickpocketers show up as well.

The other tram line which might be interesting in our Lisbon map is the 18E as this one takes us to Belém from a central station, Cais do Sodré. This line runs only modern, air-conditioned vehicles, but it is also pretty crowded during the day.

Never worry about a tram, metro or bus ticket with the Lisbon Card . Get a 24h, 48 or 72-hour pass and get unlimited trips for as little as €20.

How to buy our tram tickets?

To buy our ticket to the tram, we need to charge our Viva Viagem Card in advance at a vending machine.

It is very important since at the 28E line there are no machines at the stations. We can still buy our ticket from the driver, but it will cost much more.

To know more about the Lisbon public transport system, read our article here !

Lisbon Airport Map

Last but not least in our Lisbon map guide, we have to talk about the airport.

In this map, we can find almost everything we might need in the Lisbon airport. However, I still have some extra information for you. In case we want to drop our luggage at the airport for some reason, there is a luggage storage department for that. It is located close to Parking 02 after the elevator and has a totally reasonable price.

Other important information! When we are flying with a budget company like Wizzair or Ryanair, our departure is from Terminal 2. Good news that a bus takes us there for free from the spot signed as T2 in the map.

To know more about Lisbon airport such as how to get there or how to go from the airport to the center, read our guide here !

Your Lisbon Map Guide

We hope our Lisbon map guide will help you to get around the city and find everything you want to visit easily. In case you need more inspiration and you are curious about the main attractions, read more about them here !

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Where to live in lisbon, portugal's trendiest city.

• Things to do
• Tours and Actitivies
• Lisboa Card
• Accommodation

Places of interest detailed in our guide

Maps and guides about lisbon.

If you are planning your trip to Lisbon, in the interactive map on this page you can find all the places of interest that we recommend you visit and other useful points for your trip, such as the airport . Simply click on the placeholders in the map, or in the list just below, to go to the in-depth tabs on the individual point of interest.

Buy travel guides on Amazon

However, if you are used to organising your itineraries with a traditional paper guide, buy one of the following.

Tourist maps of Lisbon to download

The Lisbon Tourist Board has produced maps of the city’s most touristy districts with the main points of interest and transport . Click on the previews below to enlarge them, download them and, if you wish, print them out.

Indispensable for every tourist, the map of Lisbon city centre is very useful for planning your itinerary to discover the most beautiful attractions.

Map of Lisbon city center

Map of belem district, map of the park of nations, map of the lisbon metro.

If instead you are looking for the Lisbon metro map, with all the lines and stops, you can download and print it for free by clicking on the button below.

Where Lisbon is located

Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal, with a population of about 547,000. It is located on the river Tajo, about 12 km from its mouth. Lisbon is an important tourist and cultural centre and the seat of numerous European and international institutions. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, and is known for its mild climate, beaches, monuments and cultural heritage.

How to save on transport and entrance fees

City Card allow you to save on public transport and / or on the entrances to the main tourist attractions.

• Airport transfers
• Airport parking

What to See in Lisbon?

Our 22 top lisbon must-sees.

Latest update: June 15, 2023

In a nutshell: Our favorite Lisbon highlights

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

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

What to see in Lisbon in 3 days?

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

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

Praça do Comércio

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

All Lisbon sights on a map

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

Download Lisbon’s attractions map for easy access

The Tram Line 28E

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

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

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

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

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

Pastéis de Nata

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

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

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

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

The best viewpoints in Lisbon

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

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

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

Elevador de Santa Justa

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

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

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

Our tips for visiting the Elevador de Santa Justa

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

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

Elevador da Bica

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

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

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

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

Elevador da Glória

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

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

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

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

Time Out Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alfama and Castelo neighborhoods

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

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

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

Bairro Alto neighborhood

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

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

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

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

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

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

Castelo de São Jorge

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

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

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

Ticket: Castelo de São Jorge with tour guide

To the website of Castelo São Jorge

Lisbon Cathedral

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

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

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

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

Closed on Sundays

Panteão Nacional - Igreja Santa Engrácia

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

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

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

Ticket for the Pantheon with fast access

Closed on Mondays

To the website of the Pantheon

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

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

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

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

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

To the website of the monastery

Torre de Belém

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

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

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

To the website of the Bélem Tower

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

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

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

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

Ponte 25 de Abril

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

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

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

To the ticket for the Pilar 7 Experience

Cristo Rei Statue

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

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

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

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

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

8 euros (elevator)

To the website of the Cristo Rei statue

Parque das Nações

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

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

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

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

Beaches near Lisbon

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

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

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

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

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

Day trip to Sintra from Lisbon

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

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

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

From Lisbon: Day trip to Sintra

General tips: How to best see Lisbon’s sights

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

#1 Book a central hotel

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

Tempo FLH Hotels Petit Lusa

Hotel da Baixa Le Consulat

Memmo Príncipe Real Bairro Alto Hotel

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

#2 Getting around Lisbon

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

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

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

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

#3 Book a guided tour

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

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

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

What are your must-sees in Lisbon?

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

Map of Lisbon — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Lisbon, Portugal for travelers! Check out Lisbon’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Lisbon? See our Lisbon Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Lisbon. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Lisbon map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Lisbon by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 19 attractions in Lisbon

Jerónimos monastery, castelo de s. jorge.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Belém Tower

Praça do comércio, oceanário de lisboa.

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Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

National tile museum, lisbon cathedral, santa justa lift, praça dom pedro iv, padrão dos descobrimentos, bairro alto, church of saint roch, carmo convent.

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Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Basilica of Estrela

Museum of contemporary art – mac/ccb, miradouro da senhora do monte, national museum of ancient art, top 10 restaurants in lisbon.

Cervejaria Ramiro

A Cevicheria

Time out market lisboa, transportation in lisbon, nearby airports, humberto delgado airport, highways and major roads.

• A1 - Autoestrada do Norte
• A2 - Autoestrada do Sul
• 2ª Circular - CREL
• IC19 - Cril
• A5 - Autoestrada Cascais
• Eixo Norte-Sul
• Estrada de Benfica
• Av. Marechal Teixeira Rebelo
• Av. Fontes Pereira de Melo
• Av. Almirante Reis

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Popular road trips from lisbon, what's the weather like in lisbon.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Lisbon for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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Explore nearby places

• Prior Velho
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All related maps of Lisbon

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Lisbon throughout the year

• Lisbon in January
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Lisbon?

Get inspired for your trip to Lisbon with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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Discover the World

27 Top Attractions & Things to do in Lisbon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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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Reader interactions.

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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Lisbon top tourist attractions city travel maps

City centre free english travel guide - must-see sights & best destinations to visit - lisbon top tourist attractions map.

Maps of best attractions in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon maps will guide you to the best destinations in this stunning city. Lisbon is situated on the Atlantic coast, in the southwest of the country. It is approximately 300 km from the Algarve in the south. Lisboa quarters are linked by an amazing network of cobbled streets with steep gradients, served by trams and funiculars. Down by the river, the outstretched arms of a vast, Rio-like statue of Christ embrace one of the grandest of all suspension bridges and a fleet of cross-river ferries. For visitors, it’s hard not to see the city as an urban funfair, a sense heightened by the brooding castle poised above the Alfama district’s medieval, whitewashed streets, the fantasy Manueline architecture of Belem, the vibrant mosaics of the central Rossio square, and the adventurous contemporary architecture in the Parque das Nacoes. Our maps will help you find the detailed locations of the must-see sights including Belem Tower, Park of Nations, Santa Justa Elevator, Gulbenkian Museum, Alfama, Tagus River, Oceanarium, Cathedral, Baixa, Rossio, Mouraria, St. George's Castle, Bairro Alto, Botanical Garden, Atlantic Pavillion MEO Arena, Maritime Museum, Jeronimos Monastery, Thieves Flea Market - just click on a selected map to access a high resolution version that can be downloaded and printed; or saved onto your mobile device.

Metro (subway, underground, tube) transit lines (red, blue, green, yellow) - Railway train rail stations - Oriente, Entrecampos, Santa Apalonia, Portela Airport Terminal - Lisbon iconic tourist attractions map

You can view, download or print a full, high resolution (detailed, large) version of this image by clicking on the plan itself

City Sightseeting hop-on hop-off double decker open top red bus tour showing Park of Nations, Tagus River, Oceanarium - Lisbon jpg full map

Detailed road & street names plan with points of interest - Main areas, neighborhoods, districts - Belem Tower, Bairro Alto, Botanical Garden, parking - Map of Lisbon tourist attractions

Map of Alfama, Mouraria, Baixa showing historical old town centre quarters, best locations, major landmarks, walking trip - Lisbon free city map

Shopping malls & centres in Baixa, Chiado, Rossio, Mouraria - Local metropolitan transportation stations showing St. George's Castle - Lisbon printable sightseeing map

Historic downtown centre highlights, hotels (Lapa Palace, Ritz Four Seasons), bars, cafes, restaurants, nightlife - Santa Justa Elevator, Gulbenkian Museum - Lisbon large scale map

Popular Carris tram stops including routes 28 and 15 (tramway, electrico, funicular cable car) showing Aerobus shuttle - Greater Lisbon public transport zones - Lisbon offline urban map

Interactive plan of carris bus & tram tour services - Cruise port harbour terminal for ships & ferries - Famous sites including Se Cathedral, Aqueduct, Monsanto Park - Lisbon pop up map

Visitor information for tourists showing must-do places such as Atlantic Pavillion MEO Arena, Maritime Museum, Jeronimos Monastery, Cais do Sodre Station - Lisbon online map

Yellow Bus hills tour 3d planner showing coast, central attractions, surrounding spots, things to do, what to see, where to go, Fado Museum - Lisbon simple map

Map of top 10 attractions in Lisbon

The typical top ten attractions are listed below. You can find the detailed locations of these places on the maps above.

• St. George's Castle (Castelo de Sao Jorge) - Crowning the hill where Lisbon's original settlers lived, the city's medieval castle is a successful and evocative reconstruction. Best of all are the views from the esplanade.
• Belem Tower (Torre de Belem) - The boot-shaped defensive tower at Belém is one of Lisbon's emblems, but it is also one of the most perfect examples of the Manueline style, with proportions that please, rather than inspire awe.
• Jeronimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jeronimos) - The Manueline is Portugal's own architectural style. Its beginnings, and some of its greatest expressions, can be seen in the glorious national monument that is the Jerónimos. Your can visit here the tomb of Vasco da Gama.
• Se Cathedral (Se Catedral) - Lisbon's cathedral was built for the city's first bishop in the middle of the 12th century, just after the Christian reconquest. It is a fortress-like structure whose stone glows amber as the sun sets.
• National Museum of Ancient Art (Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga) - Housed in a grand 17th-century palace, Portugal's national gallery displays art that places Portugal in a historical context – as well as other treasures.
• Park of Nations (Parque das Nacoes, Expo Park) - Flanked by the Vasco da Gama Bridge, the site of Lisbon's sea-themed Expo 98 has been transformed into a dynamic leisure, business and residential area.
• Palacio National in Sintra - A splendid royal retreat in the summer residence of kings. The hilltop retreat near Lisbon is one of the most scenic in the country, surrounded by opulent palaces and country estates. Sintra is a powerful magnet for most visitors to Lisbon, but it is wise to do as Lord Byron did, and absorb the city first before moving on to Sintra – the better to appreciate the contrast.
• Museu Nacional do Azulejo - This beautiful museum displays and explains the essential Portuguese decorative element – the tile. It also has some of the city's most stunning convent and church interiors.
• Gulbenkian Museum (Museu Calouste Gulbenkian) - A museum of the highest international calibre, the Gulbenkian is a small, coolly pleasant universe of art history, where visitors can drift around oblivious of any other.
• Palácio de Queluz - A Rococo feast, ripe with culture and aspiration, this summer palace just outside Lisbon was for a brief period the royal family's permanent residence.
• Santa Justa Elevator (Elevador de Santa Justa) - One of the city's most eccentric structures. Built in 1902 by a disciple of Eiffel, a giant lift whisks you 32m up the innards of a latticework metal tower before depositing you on a platform high above the Baixa. The exit at the top of the elevador – which leads out beside the Bairro Alto's Convento do Carmo – is below the rooftop cafe, which has great views over the city.
• Oceanarium (Oceanario de Lisboa) - This world-class aquarium is the second-biggest in the world, it's in a stone-and-glass building whose centerpiece is a 5-million-liter (1.3-million-gal.) holding tank. Its waters consist of four distinct ecosystems that replicate the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Antarctic oceans.
• Other attractions include Aguas Livres Aqueduct, Thieves Flea Market (Feira da Ladra), Zoo, Benfica Stadium, Colombo Shopping Centre, Santo Amaro Docks (Docas), Foz Palaca, Gloria Funicular, Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho, Cais do Sodre), Alfama, Tagus River, Baixa, Chiado, Rossio, Mouraria, Bairro Alto, Botanical Garden, Monsanto Park, Atlantic Pavillion Meo Arena, Maritime Museum, Fado Museum.

What are some interesting facts about Lisbon?

Lisbon is known as 'the town of seven hills' which are compromised of the seven hills: Castelo, Graca, Monte, Penha de Franca, S.Pedro de Alcantara, Santa Catarina and Estrela.

Lisbon's Vasco da Gama Bridge is the longest bridge in Europe. The world record for the largest dining table was set when some 15,000 people were served lunch on the bridge as part of the inauguration celebrations.

Instead of hiking, why not take a one of a kind the Ascensor de Santa Justa (street elevator). This is another beloved landmark which takes passengers 45 meters (147f) from the Baxia elevator to the Chiado district.

Alfama is the city's oldest quarter. A village in the heart of the capital, with streets so narrow and precipitous that few cars can enter.

Tram line 28 is the the capital's best tram route to explore the historic districts.

The first passenger streetcars were built and introduced in the U.S. in the 19th Century (New York and New Orleans). The rails are called 'carris' in Portuguese and this is the name given to Lisbon's public transport company that operates the trams today. Due to their origins, Lisbon's trams were originally called 'americanos' and the first operational route was inaugurated on 17th November, 1873.

Lisbon is home to the Stadium of Light, one of Europe's biggest and famous soccer venues in which the main sporting team Benfica play their home game at.

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The interactive map provided below helps visitors orient better in Lisbon and provides them with a reliable tool for getting to know the city in its general layout before traveling to Lisbon or, why not, during their stay in the capital of Portugal. Visitors can also find the location on the map of a certain hotel, tourist sight, bar, restaurant and the like by entering the name and the address of the respective objective in the field on the upper side of the map. They can also learn the name of the streets and of the main thoroughfares.

By zooming in or out, visitors can spot the objectives they are looking for at the scale of their choice, and by clicking the hybrid button on the right upper side of the map, they can see the satellite images of Lisbon combined with the input images provided by the map proper.

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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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Ascen Aynat

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Lisbon Map: The Attractions

Santa Justa Lift

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Comércio Square

Carmo Convent

House of the Spikes

Monastery of Sao Vicente de Fora

Lisbon Cathedral

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Time Out Market Lisboa

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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 .

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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 .

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.

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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The Best One Day Lisbon Itinerary + Map & Tips

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What To Do in Lisbon in One Day

Lisbon is one of the most picturesque cities in all of Europe. With stunning architecture from numerous periods, lively cobbled streets, and a setting right on the Rio Tejo, Lisbon is a dream destination and the star of Portugal.

Packed with remarkable attractions, we’ll show you Lisbon’s charming tapestry of grand squares full of elegant and historic buildings, and narrow streets lined with independent shops and cafés all linked by its famous elevators and trams.

In this Lisbon travel guide, you’ll find a complete one day itinerary of all the most important must-see Lisbon attractions, with an interactive map, organized to make the best use of your time. We also share recommendations for central places to stay, ideas about where to eat local food, and tips about how to make the most of your perfect day in Lisbon.

Are you planning your trip to Lisbon last minute?

Be sure to book your  accommodation and tours in Lisbon  ahead of time to ensure availability! Here are our top picks!

• Want to get from the airport to Lisbon hassle-free?   Get the  best airport transfer  options here!
• Driving to or from Lisbon? Get the best car hire deals here!
• Need data for your trip? We recommend Airalo or Holafly for eSIMs
• Top Hotels in Lisbon:
• Luxury: The One Palacio da Anunciada (close to Rossio and 5* in every way)
• Mid-Range: Altis Avenida Hotel (historic with amazing views, our fave!)
• Budget: Browns Boutique Hotel (boutique feel with eclectic decor)
• Hostel: Central House Lisbon Baixa (centrally located at a great price)
• Top Activities & Tours in Lisbon:
• For all the best things to see in Lisbon, grab this excellent guided walking tour
• Get your 24 Hour Lisbon Card for free public transport and access to 39 attractions
• If you’re a first-time visitor, jump on Lisbon’s hop-on hop-off bus tour for all the main attractions
• For a lot of fun and a cool ride, book a Lisbon tuk tuk tour !
• Listen to the haunting sound of Fado music live with a glass of Port

Things to See & Do in Lisbon

Interactive map.

ROUTE: Praça Dom Pedro IV – Elevador de Santa Justa – Convento do Carmo – Livraria Bertrand – Rua Augusta Arch – Praça do Comércio – Lisbon Cathedral – Elevador Castelo – São Jorge Castle – Sunset Mirador – Tram 28

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Itinerary Notes

• Although Lisbon is the largest city in Portugal , seeing the best of Lisbon in a day is very achievable on foot. This is thanks to the walkable nature of the city, and its well-placed lifts, elevators, and trams to help with longer distances and hills. If you do plan to use public transport, the Viva Viagem Card is rechargeable and saves having to buy tickets.
• Our Lisbon itinerary will take you on an easy stroll through this wonderful city, but if you prefer to have your day organized or take a walking tour, we recommend this history, stories, and lifestyle guided tour . Your English-speaking local guide will take you on a tour of Lisbon’s highlights, including a tram ride, and you’ll also get to try the famous Pastéis de Nata , Portugal’s famous custard tart.
• If you don’t fancy walking this Lisbon tuk tuk tour is great fun! You’ll traverse the city’s oldest neighborhoods, take in some of the best views (without having to tackle the hills on foot!), and soak up the ambiance of the Portuguese capital.
• Is this your first time visiting Portugal? Get all the information you need in our Portugal Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Grab a Coffe at Praça Dom Pedro IV

The beating heart of Lisbon, the elegant plaza of Praça Dom Pedro IV makes a perfect place for people-watching with an espresso and should be your first stop on this Lisbon itinerary. 

Also known as Rossio Square or just Rossio, it’s a hive of activity and one of the most popular places for Lisboetas to meet.  

Ride the Elevador de Santa Justa

The Santa Justa lift, a 19th century wrought-iron elevator, was once a practical mode of transportation, but these days it’s more of a tourist attraction and one of the top things to do in Lisbon in one day.

The panoramic views from the viewing platform at the top are gorgeous, making it one of the  best photo spots in Lisbon . In order to avoid the inevitable queues and long lines, make sure to visit before 10am or after 3pm.

Take a one way trip on the elevator, and follow the 25 meter walkway for an easy journey to your next destination!

TOP TIP: If you have a 24 hour public transport pass or Lisbon Card, this ride will be included in that.

Admire the Convento do Carmo

The medieval Carmo Convent and Gothic church ruins are an atmospheric spot, and a reminder of the devastation left by the 1755 earthquake, which affected so much of Lisbon.

The earthquake caused significant damage to the convent and completely destroyed the library. In 1864 the site was donated to the Association of Portuguese Archaeologists, which turned the ruined building into a museum.

In February 1969, another earthquake caused damage to the church nave, leaving it open to the skies as you see it today.

Pop to Livraria Bertrand

In the Chiado neighborhood, you’ll find  Livraria Bertrand Chiado , the oldest bookshop in the world. The 18th century bookshop opened its doors in 1732 and is still running today.

Not only is Livraria Bertrand old, it is also deceptively large, with rooms named after authors. There is a long corridor through the bookstore, up to writer Fernando Pessoa’s room, where you’ll also find the Livraria Bertrand Cafe. Spend some time browsing the books, or reading in one of the little nooks.

Enter Through the Rua Augusta Arch

Wander down Rua Augusta and enter the enormous Praca do Comercio plaza through the Arco da Rua Augusta, that was built in 1875 to commemorate the reconstruction of Lisbon after the devastating Great Earthquake of 1755.

The imposing arch has six columns and is quite ornate. If you have time, head up to the top of the arch for an awesome viewpoint.

Visit Praça do Comércio

Continuing along the gorgeous  calcada Portuguesa  or Portuguese pavement, with its pretty mosaics, you’ll pass through the arch and enter the Commerce Square. Wander around the plaza while taking in the amazing architecture and the statue of King Joseph I. 

Admire Lisbon Cathedral

The 800-year-old Sé de Lisboa is the most important and oldest church in Lisbon. Dating back to the 12th century, the cathedral is predominantly in the Romanesque style, which is notable in the austere exterior of creamy stone with a central rose window.

It’s worth a look inside too, for the fountain in which Saint Anthony of Padua was baptized, some 14th century sarcophagi, and the impressive Gothic chapel.

Ride the Elevador Castelo

From Lisbon Cathedral, make your way to the Elevador Castelo, that is a somewhat hidden elevator that helps you avoid walking up the steep hills of Lisbon’s Alfama district.

These are actually two vertical lifts that together make the Elevador Castelo. The first lift departs from a fairly inconspicuous building at 170-178 Rua dos Fanqueiros and drops people off in Rua da Madalena. Just 100 meters further there is another lift, that transports passengers to Costa do Castelo.

The first building itself is a blue and white tiled attraction, and the views from the elevators are great as well.

We skipped the elevator and walked the hilly streets of Alfama to the Castelo de Sao Jorge. There are lots of cute shops and stalls along the route selling drinks and cold fruit, to help keep your stamina up! But, it will take a good 30 minutes, and if you only have limited time the elevator will be a better option.

Explore the São Jorge Castle

Once you get off the elevator, you can take a short walk and grab the second one which brings you even higher up the steep hill before arriving at the historic Moorish  Castelo de São Jorge . This is one of Lisbon’s most popular monuments, for good reason.

Some of the remains found here date all the way back to the 6th century BC. These days, the fort has been restored and is a great place to wander around, while taking in the museum and the stunning views of the Tagus River and the charming city of Lisbon below.

Dominating the city and Lisbon skyline, and at just €10 to enter, the   Castelo   is well worth a visit.

Take in a Sunset View

Because Lisbon is such a hilly city, there are numerous miradors offering fantastic views. For the best views, the early evening promises spectacular sunsets, balmy temperatures, and best of all, a great atmosphere.

Many people bring drinks to the viewpoints (grab your favorite bottle of wine or a beer), some speakers for music, or even  an acoustic guitar  for a jam session.

Some of the best places in Lisbon to watch the sunset are Miradouro de Santa Luzia, Miradouro das Portas do Sol, Miradouro da Graça, and Miradouro da Senhora (usually the quietest as it’s a little further from downtown Lisbon) – just take your pick and enjoy.

Another great way to enjoy the Lisbon sunset is with a boat party cruise along the River Tagus , enjoying an open bar with music from a live DJ.

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Ride the trams.

Riding the elevator is one thing, but Lisbon is known for its cute trams that clamber up and down the hilly streets. Tram 28 is the most popular one for tourists and connects Martim Moniz with Campo Ourique, passing through the popular Graca, Baixa, Estrela, and Alfama districts.

TOP TIP: If you just want to experience a quick tram journey, have a look at the Bica Tram, otherwise known as the Elevador da Bica (yep, the same word for lifts) which connects Largo do Calharizon, on the southern edge of the Bairro Alto, to Rua de São Paulo, via a few hundred beautifully photogenic meters.

Listen to Fado

The traditional music of Portugal, Fado’s roots can be traced back to 1820’s Lisbon, when Portugal was in the midst of the Liberal Revolution. The Portuguese word  saudade,  meaning longing, is used to describe the melancholy and mournful lyrics and tunes.

Fado music has been on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List since 2011 and is an experience not to be missed when you have just one evening in Lisbon.

We recommend this intimate live Fado show with Port wine where you’ll discover the music that expresses the soul of Lisbon, performed by professional singers and accompanied by classical and Portuguese guitar.

Explore Lisbon’s Nightlife

Start your night in Chiado, full of restaurants and bars to tempt your taste buds.

From there, head to the lively streets of Bairro Alto for the bar-lined streets of Rua da Atalaia, Rua do Norte, and Rua do Diário de Notícias. This is also a great place to see some of Lisbon’s best street art, including the Calçada da Glória Outdoor Art Gallery, the official street art gallery of Lisbon.

If you’ve still got energy, end the night on Rua Nova do Carvalho, better known as Pink Street, an old sailor’s haunt that is now home to a row of cool bars and a street literally painted pink!

Where to Eat in Lisbon

Manteigaria.

Inside the Time Out food market,  Manteigaria  is the best place to try Pastéis de Nata in the city of Lisbon, and only a few minutes walk from Livraria Bertrand. Pastel de Nata are the traditional egg custard tarts of Portugal and are a must-have any time of the day, you have to try one if this is your first day in Lisbon! 

But wait! There’s a debate about whether Pastéis de Nata is the best custard tart or whether Pastéis de Belém is better. The latter is made to a recipe developed by the monks of Jerónimos Monastery in 1837, the ingredients of which remain a secret today. Why not try both to see if you can tell the difference?

TOP TIP: Pastéis de Nata are best eaten warm from the oven, when the pastry is crisp and the custard is heavy with caramelization. Ask for it warm when you order.

Time Out Market

The  Time Out Market  is a bit of an institution on the Lisbon map. Basically, this is a huge food hall with numerous restaurants and bars all under one roof. You’ll find restaurants by famous chefs as well.

This food hall is a good place to visit for a pre-dinner snack or a full-on meal. Often, you’ll even find events being held here.

Taberna Portuguesa

This is a small restaurant serving up traditional Portuguese food. With strong ties to the ocean, it’s no surprise that  fishing in Portugal  is quite popular, and with that, much of the delicious local cuisine is fish and seafood-based.

At  Taberna Portuguesa , you can find tasty bacalao (salted and dried cod, a specialty in Portugal) and sardine meals as well as other traditional dishes.

With just a few tables, you’ll want to make a reservation here. The staff are excellent at suggesting dishes for you to try, and which food goes best with which wine.

Top Five Lisbon Travel Tips

• Consider buying the  Lisboa Card . If you follow our itinerary many of our Lisbon sightseeing suggestions are free, but you may wish to use the public transport element or switch up the itinerary a little and visit some of the attractions covered by the Lisbon Card.
• Don’t eat the ‘free’ food. Many people sit down to enjoy a meal and are impressed to see complimentary bread, cheese, and olives arrive just moments after. These are not free, and if you don’t want them, just tell the waiter right away. Otherwise, you’ll find the extra cost on your bill at the end of the meal. 
• It’s a good idea to watch your pockets. Lisbon in general is a very safe city. But at the popular tourist sites and on crowded trams, pickpockets have been known to roam.
• Dine away from the tourist areas. Food and drinks are much more expensive around the main plaza than other places in Lisbon. Avoid eating in that area to save on food costs. 
• Wear good shoes. One of the best things about Lisbon is that while it’s a trendy, hip place, it’s ok to dress casually (unlike other cities in Europe). Wearing sneakers with your dress is common here ladies! Don’t try to wear heels on Lisbon’s hilly streets.

More Than One Day in Lisbon?

Do you have just half a day more in Lisbon, or perhaps you can extend your trip and see Lisbon in one weekend? Add these attractions and  day trips from Lisbon  to your itinerary if you have enough time:

Visit Belém Tower

Take a stroll west along the river to the Torre de Belem, officially the Tower of Saint Vincent. A 16th century fortification, Portuguese explorers once embarked on their adventures to discover new lands from here.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the tower is a symbol of Portugal’s great Age of Discovery and stands proud in the Targus River. It’s worth a visit inside to tour the small museum which chronicles the tower’s eclectic history and visit the open roof terrace.

From the terrace, you’ll have stunning views of the sculpture Padrão dos Descobrimentos , the Monument to the Discoveries. The 52 meter testament was built in 1960 to commemorate the ‘Exposition of the Portuguese World’, and to celebrate the eighth and third centenaries of the founding and restoration of the Portuguese nation in 1140 and 1640.

These Belem Tower fast-track entry tickets also include entry to nearby Jeronimos Monastery, a late Gothic Manueline-style monastery housing archaeology, and a maritime museum.

Around the Belém district, you’ll also find lush parks, tree-lined plazas, the Lisbon Earthquake Museum , and the old royal palace, now the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda , making it a great spot to escape the frantic nature of the city.

Climb the Sanctuary of Christ the King

Cross the river on the Ponte 25 de Abril, the bridge that closely resembles the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and see the 20th century statue of The Sanctuary of Christ the King , or Cristo Rei .

Modeled on Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro Brazil, the huge monument stands 28 meters high from its plinth over the river and provides spectacular views of Lisbon from the top. To get there, you’ll need to take an elevator before climbing 270 steps to reach the lookout point at the top!

Chill at the Lisbon Greenhouses 

Visit the often overlooked Estufa Fria , or cold house, a haven of lush tropical and exotic plants and water features. The plants are housed in three magical greenhouses with slatted bamboo roofs, in the northwestern corner of Parque Eduardo VII.

Visit the Oceanarium of Lisbon

The Lisbon Oceanarium is located in the Parque das Nacoes, which was the exhibition ground for the Expo ’98. It is one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe, boasting a large main aquarium holding 5 million liters of seawater, alongside four marine habitats that are home to the terrestrial and marine ecosystems of the Earth’s oceans.

We recommend booking  skip the line tickets for the Oceanário de Lisboa , one of Lisbon’s most popular indoor attractions.

Be Amazed by Sintra

Take a day trip to one of Portugal’s favorite national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the city of Sintra, once the home of Portuguese royalty. Home to rich history, the colorful Pena Palace, and Quinta Da Regaleira, where the mysterious Initiation Well is a top Instagram draw, Sintra is like nowhere else in Europe.

On our  recommended and very well-reviewed Sintra day trip  you’ll also see Capo de Roca, mainland Europe’s most westerly point, some of the  best beaches in Portugal , and the lively town of Cascais, one of Portugal’s top coastal resorts.

Visit Porto

Take a high-speed train from Lisbon to Porto, which will get you there in around three hours. Trains start around 8am and the last Porto to Lisbon train leaves at around 8pm, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the city and visit all the Porto must-see attractions . 

Tickets cost around €25 each way. Organized day trips from Lisbon to Porto are another great way to see the city, with the added bonus of a guide to show you all the best things to do in Porto. Check out these private  Porto tours  for the best option.

Or, hire a car and take the incredible drive from Lisbon to Porto . Stopping at many of Portugal’s top destinations along the way, like Fatima, Coimbra, and Nazare, this coastal and historic itinerary is a must if you want to see more of Portugal.

Sintra, Cascais and Cabo da Roca Coast Day Tour

If you take one day trip from Lisbon, take this highly rated and well organized day trip.

Visit the UNESCO city of Sintra , home to colourful Pena Palace and  Quinta Da Regaleira , to see the mysterious Initiation Well. You’ll also see Capo de Roca , mainland Europe’s most westerly point, and the lively town of Cascais , one of Portugal’s top coastal resorts.

With a professional guide to offer insights, an organized tour is the perfect opportunity to see  more of Portugal in less time!

Lisbon Practicalities

When to visit lisbon portugal.

Lisbon is a beautiful city that can be visited year-round, however, some months are better than others. 

Unlike other northern hemisphere destinations, Lisbon doesn’t see freezing cold temperatures in the winter. While it may be sunny, but chilly, for your day out in Lisbon, there are equal amounts of cloudy, wet days as well. I

In the winter months of November to February, you can expect the weather to be damp and cool, which makes it the least desirable time to visit Lisbon, although this is offset by discounted prices and fewer tourists.

The months of March, April, and May are one of two ideal times to visit Lisbon. During the spring, the weather is warm but not unbearably hot.

The tourist season hasn’t fully picked up during the spring, and there are many festivals and events taking place but the weather can still be unpredictable during these months with downpours possible. 

The summer months between June to August are the peak Lisbon tourism season. The weather is great, there’s a buzz in the air, and dining outside is enjoyable.

There are lots of events and things going on, warm weather and long days, and you can visit the nearby beaches or lounge by your hotel pool. This can be marred by the number of tourists and higher prices. You’ll need to book ahead of time or accommodation options won’t be available. 

Another great time to visit this amazing city is during the two autumn months of September and October. The sky is blue, the weather is great and the tourists have thinned out meaning prices start to reduce.

Getting to Lisbon

When flying to Lisbon you will land at Humberto Delgado Airport , only 20 minutes from the city centre.

The quickest and most cost-effective way to get from Lisbon Airport to the city center is on the metro. Trains run every 7 to 10 minutes to São Sebastião metro station, and from there you can take an onward train to your preferred destination.

You can pre-purchase a Lisbon Card , which as well as providing free transportation also offers free admission to many of the city’s attractions. You can get cards for 24, 48, or 72 hours and they are easy to pick up at the airport when you arrive and help save money in Lisbon .

Two Aerobus lines leave the airport into the city center. Tickets can be purchased on board the bus or at Turismo de Lisboa desks in the arrivals halls.

• Aerobus Line 1 runs every 20 minutes from 7.30am to 7pm and every 25 minutes from 7pm to 11pm.The bus stops close to major hotels around the historical center of the city and the Marques de Pombal area. It also stops at Cais do Sodre station where you can take trains to the coastal areas of Cascais, Estoril, and Oeiras.
• Aerobus Line 2 runs every 20 minutes from 7.40am to 7pm and every 25 minutes from 7pm to 10.45pm. This line serves the main locations around the Marques de Pombal area of Lisbon. For onward connections, it stops at Sete Rios bus terminus and rail station.

You can take a bus run by the city’s public transportation operator  Carris , from the airport into central Lisbon, however, there are luggage size restrictions to be aware of with the maximum size allowed being 50x40x20cm. The buses take about 45 mins and cost €1.70 when paid on board the bus.

For a great way to start your Lisbon trip book a private transfer from the airport with Intui directly to your accommodation in the city center – it’s more cost-effective than you think! Intui works with many local operators to bring the best options and prices for your transfer.

Are you visiting Lisbon as part of a longer trip? A Portuguese road trip is the best way see this gorgeous country, and our guide to road tripping in Portugal has all you need, including maps, routes, highlights and tips, to help you plan the perfect trip.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Luxury: The One Palacio da Anunciada – Booking.com | Agoda

Centrally located but on a quiet street, the simple exterior of The One Palacio da Anunciada belies the beautiful interior of this stylish hotel. We loved the green and leafy garden area and the choice of two pools for a refreshing dip after a day of sightseeing.

Mid-Range: Altis Avenida Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

With spectacular views across Lisbon from the roof terrace, the Altis Avenida Hotel is one of our favorites. Located in a historical building with a mix of traditional Portuguese architecture and Art Deco design, the whole feel is one of comfortable elegance. Breakfast on the 7th floor is one of the best ways to start your day in Lisbon!

Budget: Browns Boutique Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

A five minute walk from the Bairro Alto, Browns is a quirky boutique hotel with apartments. With wonderfully eclectic decor in the rooms and public spaces, this cool sport is a great choice for a stay in Lisbon.

Hostel: The Central House Lisbon Baixa – Booking.com | Agoda

Centrally located, this hostel offers a wide range of shared and private rooms, with plenty of public space too. Clean, light, and airy, this is one of the best spots to stay if you’re visiting Lisbon on a budget.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Portugal . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Written for The Gap Decaders by Goats on the Road

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 29, 2024

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.

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.

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!

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!)

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.

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.

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 .

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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!

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).

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).

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
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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!

Lisbon Tourist Attractions Map PDF

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Lisbon Tourist Attractions Maps | City Tours Map

Lisbon is becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe these days, thanks to the ever-increasing number of tourists who are discovering the citys hidden gems. That is why its a good idea to carry a copy of the printable tourist map Lisbon before you head on to discovering the city on your own. The streets of Lisbon can get very busy at peak times and the map of Lisbon will surely come in handy.

For tourists who prefer to have a map on their device, we have a Lisbon interactive map thats available for you to download for free. With millions of tourists visiting Lisbon nowadays, the last thing you want is to get lost in the busy city streets. Carrying a copy of the tourist information Lisbon map is definitely important.

As someone who is visiting Lisbon for the first time, we understand that navigating the city can be confusing. By providing you with a free copy of the Lisbon tour map, were making your trip to be more enjoyable for you. The map of Lisbon includes all information about the Lisbons most famous attractions , such as the Belem Tower, Pena Palace , Sao Jorge Castle, Jeronimos Monastery, and more!

If youre taking the Lisbon metro, go check out our Lisbon metro map with attractions. That way, you will know which places the train would stop. Tourists who are taking the Lisbon hop on hop off tour bus should check out the Lisbon hop on hop off bus map so you will know in which places the bus would stop.

Those who have visited Lisbon will surely agree that the best way to see the city is by foot. In this case, our Lisbon tourist map walking can be a big help. Along with this map, you should also carry the Lisbon city sightseeing maps to ensure that youll be able to visit all the interesting sites and attractions in the city.

All our maps are available for you to use for free. Whether it is the Lisbon tourist map pdf or the Lisbon tourist map printable that you need, we have made these maps available for all travelers to download for free.

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3 replies to this topic

Go to Oriente train station, the trains that start in Lisbon and the trains coming through Lisbon stop at Oriente, more choice.

Thank you so much for your guidance.

You can in fact buy a ticket from Entrecampos which you can use on any local Urbanos train from Entrecampos to Oriente. Search journeys from Entrecampos and they will be included. Seats on those trains are unreserved.There is a direct morning train every day from Entrecampos to Porto Campanhã at 0957 if that's convenient.

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Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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11 April 2024

IHG Hotels & Resorts brings Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants to Lisbon

The centrally located hotel will add to IHG’s growing luxury & lifestyle portfolio in Portugal

11.04.24 (London, UK): IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, announces the signing of Kimpton Lisbon, the first Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants property in the Portuguese capital. Set to open its doors in 2026, the boutique luxury hotel marks the second Kimpton to come to Portugal, following the signing of Kimpton Algarve São Rafael Atlántico  in late 2023.

Kimpton Lisbon adds to IHG’s fast-growing luxury & lifestyle portfolio, now the second largest in the world, and reinforces its focus on its growing presence in the country. In the luxury & lifestyle segment, IHG operates six open hotels and has a further seven in development for brands including Six Senses, Hotel Indigo, and Vignette Collection’s recently opened Convent Square Lisbon  and Casa da Companhia  in Porto. 

Signed under a franchise agreement with Real Hotel Group, the hotel will be reimagined as an excellent representation of the Kimpton brand, with 141-guestrooms and public areas redesigned to take inspiration from the light and colours of the city. From unique, design-forward spaces featuring inspiring high-quality finishes to seasonally-inspired restaurants and bars - including a rooftop bar and pool – the hotel will seamlessly cater guests looking to engage in new cultures, cuisines or conversations.

Located in the heart of Lisbon, Kimpton Lisbon will become an ideal launch point for exploration, with key tourist attractions in walking distance including the Eduardo VII Park, Marquês de Pombal Square and Avenida Liberdade, as well as museums and the city’s bustling restaurants and bar scene.

(Mrs) Willemijn Geels, VP Development, Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented: “Working with our partners at Real Hotels Group, we are delighted to bring our Kimpton brand to the vibrant and culturally-rich city of Lisbon. The hotel is a great addition to our growing luxury and lifestyle portfolio in Portugal, joining the recently signed Kimpton Algarve São Rafael Atlántico, and further demonstrating owner demand and guest appetite for our Kimpton brand. Merging a culture of genuine hospitality and unique, design forward hotels for all, Kimpton Lisbon will create transformative experiences where locals and visitors seamlessly come together. I look forward to welcoming guests to our latest Kimpton boutique luxury property when it opens its door in 2026.”

Eurico Almeida, CEO, Real Hotels Group, commented : "We are thrilled at the opportunity to bring the first Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants property to Lisbon, and our eighth hotel in partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts. We look forward to combining IHG’s global enterprise with Kimpton’s renowned blend of luxury and individuality, partnering with the award-winning architecture and design group, Rockwell, and infusing them into the heart of Lisbon’s vibrant hospitality landscape.”

Kimpton pioneered the concept of unique, distinctive, design-forward hotels in the United States. Founded in 1981 by visionary hotelier Bill Kimpton, the brand is inspired by his travels to Europe where Kimpton saw an opportunity for a hotel experience that was more than a place to stay, but rather a place to experience, feel a sense of belonging and explore.

IHG acquired Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in 2018 and has since spearheaded its expansion into Europe and beyond. Kimpton Lisbon joins a portfolio of eight Kimpton hotels across the UK and continental Europe and forms part of Kimpton’s global portfolio of 78 hotels across 12 countries, representing 13,721-bedrooms.

IHG Hotels & Resorts currently operates 20 hotels across seven brands in Portugal, including Six Senses, InterContinental, Vignette Collection, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express and Iberostar.

*Numbers as at 31 December 2023  

For further information please contact:

Hinal Patel [email protected]

About IHG ®

IHG Hotels & Resorts [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good.

With a family of 19 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards , one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,300 open hotels in more than 100 countries, and a development pipeline of over 2,000 properties.

• Luxury & Lifestyle: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas , Regent Hotels & Resorts , InterContinental Hotels & Resorts , Vignette Collection , Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants , Hotel Indigo
• Premium: voco hotels , HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts , Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts , EVEN Hotels
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• Suites: Atwell Suites , Staybridge Suites , Holiday Inn Club Vacations , Candlewood Suites
• Exclusive Partners: Iberostar Beachfront Resorts

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 345,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally.

Visit us online for more about our hotels and reservations and IHG One Rewards . To download the IHG One Rewards app, visit the Apple App or Google Play stores.

For our latest news, visit our Newsroom  and follow us on LinkedIn .

About Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio, is the original boutique hotel company, which pioneered the concept of unique, distinctive, design-forward hotels in the United States in 1981. Anchored in one-of-a-kind experiences, the San Francisco-born brand now operates 78 hotels across 12 countries, featuring restaurants, bars and lounges across urban locations, resort destinations and up-and-coming markets globally. From inspiring design to forward-thinking flavors that feed the soul, Kimpton spaces and experiences center on its guests. Every detail is thoughtfully curated and artfully delivered so that guest experiences remain meaningful, unscripted and ridiculously personal. For more information, visit  www.KimptonHotels.com .

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European cities hope jet-setting Taylor Swift fans will splash the cash for Eras tour

The superstar arrives in Europe next month – and Swifties, tourist boards and venues are already preparing

T im Brown, 44, and his wife, Marcella, 34, may not consider themselves bona fide “Swifties”, but when it was announced last June that Taylor Swift would be visiting their corner of the globe this summer they could not resist joining the scramble for a pair of tickets.

A post-pandemic appetite for live music events has fuelled huge worldwide interest in the American singer-songwriter’s Eras tour, which surpassed in $1bn sales in November to become the highest-grossing series of concerts in history.

The pop culture event of the summer will arrive in Europe next month, kicking off in Paris on 9 May and wrapping up in London on 20 August with 49 dates in between in Sweden, Ireland, Portugal, Germany, Poland, Austria, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Switzerland.

The unique nature of the tour’s ticketing system, which was tweaked after a number of hitches last year, means there will be a mass movement of travelling fans who will not only be Swiftie in affiliation but swift-like in their willingness to travel across the continent.

In expectation of intense demand, Ticketmaster introduced a pre-registration system that rewarded some early applicants with access codes to the ticket sale proper, via staggered windows for each city.

Notionally designed to prioritise genuine fans over “scalpers” – people who buy and resell tickets for a quick profit – the pre-sales system also meant many fans registered for tickets in multiple destinations across Europe to increase their chances.

Tim and Marcella, who live in Norwich, registered not just for the nearest concerts – in London and Liverpool – but also in Amsterdam and Lisbon. The pair got lucky with a pair of €91 tickets in the Portuguese capital and have turned the trip into a weekend break. “I used to live in Lisbon so I thought why not kill two birds with one stone,” Tim said. “We booked ourselves flights and four nights’ accommodation the same day.” They are far from alone.

Katie Soo, the chief business officer of DICE, a rival ticketing company, said: “The excitement and uncertainty inherent in the ticket-purchasing process might have inadvertently incentivised fans to apply for tickets in multiple cities, thereby increasing the likelihood of travelling across Europe to attend the concerts.”

Hotel prices

Several European cities have already reported a sharp rise in demand for hotel and short-term rental accommodation over the summer, when the Swift hurricane will arrive. In Edinburgh, Liverpool and Cardiff, rooms at the Travelodge chain around Swift’s June dates have been sold out since August 2023, a month after tickets for the shows went on sale.

In Paris, where fans anticipate Swift to debut an updated version of the Eras show with songs from the new Tortured Poets Department album, 80% of hotels and apartments listed on Booking.com are already full up. In Warsaw on 2 August, only 9% of hotels listed on the same site are still available.

Not all of the 18 cities covered by the Eras tour are obvious tourism destinations. From 17-19 July, Swift will play three concerts at the 65,000-capacity home ground of the football club Schalke 04 in Gelsenkirchen in Ruhr valley, western Germany. The city’s less-than-familiar name prompted one US chatshow host to quip that “the place might not even exist”.

Yet even in Germany’s rust belt the influx of Swift fans is temporarily transforming the hotel market: any two-bedroom apartments that remain available are going for €800-2,000 a night, with cheaper accommodation available only in surrounding cities that are just as off the usual tourist track as Gelsenkirchen, such as Essen, Bochum or Herne.

Cities with stricter rules on allowing Airbnb-style holiday lets and a more limited stock of short-term rental apartments are reporting a particularly marked increase in rates during Swift’s visit, with about 30% year-on-year spikes in rental rates in Cardiff, Edinburgh and Milan, according to AirDNA, a data analytics company specialising in the short-term rentals market.

Of all the tour’s European stops, Vienna is experiencing the most notable impact on its rental market, with booking rates for the nights of Swift’s concerts recorded in February 44% higher than at the same point the previous year. By the end of March the number of nights booked in the Austrian capital for the length of Swift’s stay in the second week of August had risen by 430% compared with the same period in 2023.

When Luke Tilden’s wife, Tatjana, suggested last summer that the couple buy their 13- and 15-year-old daughters, Lena and Maya, tickets to a Taylor Swift gig for Christmas, the 53-year-old Briton initially waved it off. “There’s no chance in hell we’d get a ticket without paying through our noses, I thought,” said Tilden, who works as an interpreter at the European parliament in Brussels.

But after pre-registering for tickets in London, Paris and Munich, the Tildens got unexpectedly lucky for four tickets in southern Germany and have turned the concert visit into a mini-holiday: “We’ll visit the in-laws in Bavaria, enjoy the countryside, do a bit of hiking.”

The hope in cities across Europe is that this will be replicated on a massive scale, with fans’ excitement translating into generous spending sprees on food, shopping and leisure. In Stockholm, for example, where authorities are expecting 159,000 visitors to arrive from 135 countries in mid-May, the chamber of commerce has forecast a spending boost of €50m. “We hope the whole town will buzz from the Eras tour,” said Tomas Andersson, a spokesperson for the Swedish capital’s tourism board.

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Whether fans will necessarily act like ordinary tourists, however, is up for debate. “Pop-culture tourists do not necessarily care about traditional buildings and authentic restaurants,” said Maria Lexhagen, a professor at the European Tourism Research Institute, Mid Sweden University.

“Joining up with other fan communities is stronger motivation, as is the idea that they might get closer to the stars themselves. Many of them will map out where Swift is spending her time in the city – they will seek out seemingly marginal but meaningful places like back alleys or coffee shops.” Venues may be hoping for a repeat of Sydney in February, when Swift swept into an unassuming Italian restaurant in the suburbs and sent its name into global media headlines.

In Stockholm the tourism board said it was expecting bookshops and secondhand clothes stores, rather than museums and royal palaces, to attract most of the arriving visitors. Some venues are being proactive: one restaurant within walking distance of the multipurpose Friends Arena in the Solna municipality is putting on a “Taylor Swift brunch experience” with a karaoke stage; the waterfront nightclub Debaser is hosting a pre-concert party on 16 May, an all-ages all-day party with a Swift-themed quiz on 19 May and an afterparty the day after.

Environment

As the Swift circus rolls across the continent, the transport infrastructure of urban centres will also be put to the test. Around the tour’s three-night stop in Dublin at the end of June, Irish Rail has announced additional late-night services to Cork and Limerick to meet an expected increase in demand. Extra tram and bus services are likely to be announced nearer the time.

Unlike rail operators, most airlines do not have capacity to charter additional flights. Due to yield management – airlines adjusting prices based on expected demand – a scramble for airborne journeys into cities that host the Eras tour is more likely to result in more expensive tickets rather than additional flights.

Officials at Lisbon airport said no additional flights had been chartered around Swift’s concerts on 24 and 25 May but that demand would probably be reflected in slightly higher load factors. A spokesperson for Amsterdam Schiphol said general aviation slots could be requested at short notice but nothing out of the ordinary had been logged so far.

Calculating the environmental impact of the tour with any certainty was difficult, experts said. “We can expect that some Swift fans will travel a long way to see one, if not several, shows across Europe”, said Stefan Gössling, a professor of tourism at Linnaeus University in Kalmar, Sweden. “But measuring the environmental impact of these trips is extremely difficult – it would involve a lot of guesswork.”

This did not mean the carbon footprint was negligible. “Every flight taken by a person adds to demand and hence influences supply considerations,” Gössling said. “The greater the demand, the more aircrafts are in service.”

The pop star’s carbon footprint is easier to estimate. Swift owns two jets by the French manufacturer Dassault, whose journeys are trackable. During the 2023 leg of the Eras tour, Swift’s planes spent 166 hours crisscrossing the US in about 75 individual journeys, though it is possible they were used by people other than the singer.

According to data available through the open-access aviation tracker ADS-B exchange, Swift’s jets caused carbon emissions of about 2,830 tonnes of CO 2 equivalent over the course of the US Eras tour – about 1,700 times the annual contribution of an average person.

A spokesperson for Swift told US media last year that in advance of the tour’s start in March 2023, the pop star bought more than double the carbon credits needed to offset all tour travel. Carbon offset credits are tradable certificates that allow purchasers to compensate for emissions by investing in environmental projects that claim to reduce carbon emissions, though recent studies have questioned the efficacy of these schemes.

Additional reporting by Ajit Niranjan

• Taylor Swift
• Travel & leisure
• Music industry
• Hospitality industry
• Airline industry
• Pop and rock

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