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33 most famous Lisbon Instagram spots (+map!)

Where to find the most iconic Lisbon Instagram spots? Here is the most complete list of the best photo spots and the most Instagrammable places in the city! Lisbon is one of my favorite cities because it is full of beautiful and iconic landmarks.

We spent more than two weeks living in Lisbon and exploring everything this iconic city had to offer. In this blog post, you will find the best Instagram spots in Lisbon with photos, descriptions, and locations on the map. Happy exploring!

Going to Sintra? Read more » 17 most iconic Instagram spots in Sintra, Portugal

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TABLE OF CONTENTS »

1. Arco da Rua Augusta – one of my favorite iconic Lisbon Instagram spots!

Arco da Rua Augusta arch is probably one of the most recognizable landmarks and one of the most iconic Lisbon Instagram spots! Just like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris or the Colosseum in Rome, this arch is one of the symbols of Lisbon!

Arco da Rua Augusta is a triumphal arch that was built to commemorate the reconstruction of Lisbon after the devastating 1755 earthquake (it also caused a tsunami and a firestorm) that destroyed about 85% of all the buildings in Lisbon.

Construction of the arch started in the 18th century and was completed more than 100 years later. It is more than 30 meters/100 ft high and you can actually visit the inside of the arch and climb up to the roof! Entrance tickets cost 3.50 EUR per person.

Arco da Rua Augusta is located in the very center of the city and is impossible to miss when visiting Lisbon. It is beautiful from both sides but I especially loved the back side where you can see the majestic statue of King José I of Portugal through the arch.

Location: Arco da Rua Augusta

2. Praça do Comércio

Another must-see place right next to the arch is Praça do Comércio or the Commerce Plaza – a massive public square in front of the Arco da Rua Augusta arch lined with restaurants and shops and features the statue of King José I of Portugal in the middle.

You can’t miss this spot when visiting Lisbon. It gets very lively in the evening and hosts many different events that take place in Lisbon. My favorite photo spot here were the archways that go around the perimeter of the square!

Location: Praça do Comércio

3. Miradouro de Santa Luzia

If you are looking for the best viewpoints in Lisbon , then this is it – Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Thanks to the beautiful pergola covered with vines and flower bushes as well as tile-covered walls this viewpoint has become one of the best photo spots in Lisbon.

If you are an early riser I highly recommend coming here in the morning. The glowing sun rays from the sunrise make the whole place even more scenic and magical. It will be quite busy during the day, so there’s another reason for an early morning visit!

The viewpoint offers picturesque views over Lisbon’s red terracotta roofs and the scenic Tagus River. This is definitely one of the most iconic and famous photo spots in Lisbon and it offers numerous photo opportunities.

Location: Miradouro de Santa Luzia

4. Lisbon Pink Street

There are very few Instagram spots in Lisbon that are more iconic and famous than Pink Street. It is a short street in the heart of Lisbon that is colored pink and hosts numerous bars and restaurants. Part of the street is covered with rainbow umbrellas.

Pink Street is a proper party street by night, so go there in the morning if you want a photo here! We arrived at Pink Street shortly after 7 AM and the street was full of sticky drinks and plastic cups, but it was soon cleaned and washed by the bar owners.

The best time to go there is around 8 AM when the street is clean from the trash and before it gathers the usual crowds. There is nothing else special about this street other than the beautiful colors – the blue building, the yellow arch, and the pink street.

Location: Lisbon Pink Street

5. Belém Tower

The Belém Tower is one of the most famous Lisbon Instagram spots and landmarks in the city. It is also one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal – a special list of cultural monuments voted by people as the most important monuments in Portugal.

The Belém Tower is a 16th-century fortification that served as the launching point for the many sea voyages of the Portuguese explorers so it is often considered as the symbol of Europe’s Age of Discoveries.

The tower is one of the most prominent examples of the Manueline architectural style in Portugal – also called the Portuguese late Gothic that incorporated marine symbols and elements as well as representations of the discoveries during sea voyages.

If you are looking for a crowd-free photo, I recommend coming here early in the morning – we arrived at 8 AM to get that morning sunrise glow. However, if you wish to visit the tower, then you will have to wait until 10 AM when it opens for visitors.

Location: Belém Tower

6. Elevador de Santa Justa

Elevador de Santa Justa is probably one of the most iconic places in Lisbon and one of the most iconic Instagrammable places in Lisbon as well. It is an iron elevator built in 1902 to connect different levels of the city. It does look pretty unique!

The iron elevator is 45 meters high and was built in a Neo-Gothic architectural style. Moving around the city has always caused problems because of the hills. So different solutions to that problem have been introduced over time – this lift being one of them.

Taking the famous elevator and driving up to the observation deck is among the top things to do in Lisbon. You can normally see a big line waiting for their turn to go up with the iconic lift. However, you can also visit the top of the elevator for free.

Taking an iconic iron elevator that is more than 100 years old is definitely a cool experience and I have done it myself. However, waiting in the long line was the worst part. If you happen to be there on a hot day then maybe you wouldn’t want to do that.

You can actually climb up to the higher level on foot – you can navigate to the Carmo Convent building which is behind the elevator and from there, you can walk to the upper floor of the elevator for free. It is located next to a bar and is open to everyone.

Those who buy tickets and drive up with the elevator are allowed to climb up a few meters higher and see a rooftop view but it doesn’t differ too much from the one you get for free, so it is up to you to decide. Elevator tickets cost about 5 EUR per person.

Location: Elevador de Santa Justa

7. Elevador da Bica

Another iconic example of how locals tried to make a solution for the hills in Lisbon is Elevador da Bica. It is a funicular that connects two streets transporting people along a railway with a sharp incline. Alternatively, you can climb the stairs next to the railway.

The super attractive yellow elevator has become one of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon! Bica elevator is a better photo spot than the yellow Tram 28. Do you know why?

Bica elevator operates along a short route and stops for a longer while at the top where you can very easily take a photo. Tram 28 has a long route and is constantly moving so it is harder to take a photo.

The elevator began functioning in the 19th century and has been redesigned over time. Now it features the famous yellow color and looks similar to Lisbon’s famous yellow tram – Tram 28 – which makes it a popular tourist attraction.

For the best photo, I recommend walking to the top of the route and waiting for the funicular there. There are two funiculars going up and down the railway. When we visited one of them was beautiful yellow, but the other one was painted with graffiti.

Location: Elevador da Bica – Photo location

8. Lisbon Cathedral

Another must-do photo in Lisbon is with the famous yellow Tram 28. Although the tram goes through Lisbon along a very long route, there are specific Instagram spots where you can get that iconic Lisbon photo. One of them is at the Lisbon Cathedral.

The tram goes right by the front facade of the cathedral creating this iconic photo opportunity (photo above). This is one of the most iconic and best photo spots in Lisbon for sure, however, such a photo is only possible in the morning.

In order to get such a photo, you must arrive before 8 AM! After that, the traffic gets very busy, tourists arrive to visit the cathedral and tuk-tuks line along the side of the street exactly where I am in the photo. It gets crazy! But it is iconic nevertheless.

Lisbon Cathedral itself is an iconic building and the oldest church in Lisbon. The church was built in 1147 and so far has survived multiple earthquakes and has been rebuilt and redesigned multiple times over the centuries.

This means that the Lisbon Cathedral features many different architectural styles – starting from Gothic, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Rococo styles. My favorite place in the cathedral was the front facade balcony where you can walk on – I felt like the Pope!

There are two floors to explore if you buy the entrance tickets. The ground floor features the main hall with multiple chambers where you can walk around and see everything. The upper floor features rooms with artifacts and balconies to see Lisbon from above .

Location: Lisbon Cathedral

9. Jerónimos Monastery

Jerónimos Monastery is easily one of the most beautiful places in Lisbon and also among the Seven Wonders of Portugal. It is also a prominent example of the Portuguese late Gothic architectural style – Manueline. It is stunning!

The famous monastery is also one of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon. The grand architecture, its significance, and the unique layout put this place amongst the best photo spots in Lisbon.

Jerónimos Monastery is a place you should definitely include in your Lisbon itinerary no matter what! The key here is to arrive when the monastery opens, buy your tickets online prior to coming for the earliest time, and go straight to the famous courtyard.

Even if you see a long line at the entrance, don’t be discouraged – it moves fast and the courtyard is massive – there is a place for everyone. The monastery is a 16th-century masterpiece listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is definitely worth visiting!

Interestingly, Jerónimos Monastery is the former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome whose monks were the ones who created the recipe for the world-famous Portuguese egg tart – pastel de nata – right in this monastery.

The monastery is connected to a church (the entrance to the church is next to the monastery, and has its own opening hours) which is the final resting place for the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama and two kings – Manuel I and John III.

Location: Jerónimos Monastery – Entrance to the monastery – Entrance tickets

10. Castelo de São Jorge

When in Lisbon it is impossible to miss the majestic São Jorge Castle sitting atop a hill in the heart of Lisbon. It is one of my favorite places to see the city from above and one of my favorite photo spots in Lisbon – especially this window in one of the towers.

The fortifications of a castle that we see today date back a thousand years when they were built by the Moorish forces that had occupied the territory of Lisbon. However, there is evidence that humans lived on the castle hill as far back as the 8th century BC.

São Jorge Castle is one of the bucket list places to visit in Lisbon. During the Middle Ages, this site had a royal palace that was the residence of the kings of Portugal. As of today not much is left of the castle except the impressive defensive towers and walls.

Visit to the castle cost us 11 EUR per person which is a bit pricey to see the walls of a castle from the Middle Ages, but if you time it around sunset then you can get some magical golden views over the whole city. Plus there are smaller crowds in the evening!

Location: Castelo de São Jorge

11. Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Miradouro das Portas do Sol is another famous viewpoint located in the heart of the city – right next to the popular Miradouro de Santa Luzia viewpoint. There is a wide platform with picturesque views over the city and the Tagus River.

This viewpoint offers panoramic views over Lisbon especially the Alfama district where you can see the distinct towers of the National Pantheon and the São Vicente de Fora Church, making this one of the best photo spots in Lisbon! Such a beautiful place!

Location: Miradouro das Portas do Sol

12. Tunnel of the History of Lisbon

There is also a hidden secret to the Miradouro das Portas do Sol viewpoint – right under the observation deck you can find a special spot – a secret tunnel dedicated to the most important historic events that have happened in Lisbon.

The tunnel has numerous comic-style illustrations created by the artist Nuno Saraiva that depict the story of Lisbon. It is amongst the coolest Lisbon Instagram spots! You can see the towers of the iconic São Vicente de Fora church right through the tunnel!

Location: Tunnel of the History of Lisbon

13. Carmo Convent

There is one event in Lisbon’s history that shaped Lisbon as we see it today and that is the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. The earthquake and the following tsunami as well as the firestorm destroyed about 85% of all buildings in Lisbon and changed the city forever.

Only a couple of places in Lisbon remind us of the past horrific events and Carmo Convent is one of them. It is a 14th-century convent that suffered damage in the earthquake – the roof collapsed and part of the building complex was destroyed.

Today you can visit the ruins and see what is left of the Gothic church – it is completely roofless with high arches crossing the sky. The visit also includes a museum behind the church with artifacts and two mummies.

Although this place is absolutely unique and beautiful, and it makes for some of the most iconic Instagram spots in Lisbon, you shouldn’t forget what really happened here and what people had to go through centuries ago.

Location: Carmo Convent

14. National Pantheon

One of the best viewpoints in Lisbon you will find on the roof of the National Pantheon – a beautiful 17th-century monument that is among the most popular places to visit in Lisbon. The National Pantheon was initially built as a church but was later redesigned.

Today the National Pantheon hosts multiple burial sites of some of the most important Portuguese personalities like presidents, generals, and also artists. You can visit the Pantheon for an entrance fee of 8 EUR (a visit to the roof is included in the price).

The most impressive part of the Pantheon is the dome. It was only finished in the 20th century. If you climb up to the roof of the Pantheon, you can walk around the circular shape of the dome from the inside – there is a pathway with railings (see photos).

From the rooftop of the Pantheon, you can get 360-degree views over Lisbon, the Tagus River, and the port. This was definitely one of my favorite viewpoints and photo spots in Lisbon! Pantheon itself is located on a hill so the views were great!

Location: National Pantheon

15. Church and Monastery of São Vicente de Fora

If you travel to Lisbon then visiting Igreja de São Vicente de Fora church and the monastery right next to it is a must! It is an absolutely massive complex that consists of a large church, a monastery that features the royal pantheon, and a courtyard.

It was built in the 17th century in the Mannerist style and features some of the most impressive tile artworks in Lisbon. One of the best things about it is that you can climb up to the roof of it and see Lisbon and the nearby National Pantheon from above.

The inside of the monastery features a famous sacristy covered by different types of marble. There are courtyards lined with arches and walls decorated with illustrations on painted tiles. The church hall ceiling is covered by beautiful barrel vaulting.

The whole building is a piece of art and is one of the most important monasteries in the country as it hosts the royal pantheon of tombs from the Portuguese monarchs from the Braganza dynasty. I would definitely include this in my Lisbon bucket list!

The building is full of some of the best Lisbon Instagram spots – the archways in the courtyard, the tile illustrations, the rooftop views, and many other spots. Definitely take your time to explore it all – you will need more than 1 hour to see everything!

Location: Igreja de São Vicente de Fora – Entrance

16. National Tile Museum

If there is a museum that you must include in your Portugal bucket list then the National Tile Museum would be the one for sure. There are only a couple of things that characterize the Portuguese nation the best and tiles or ‘ azulejos ‘ are one of them!

The National Tile Museum holds a large collection of painted tiles from centuries ago that you can see with your own eyes. The museum is located inside a 16th-century convent which makes the experience even more special.

You also get to visit a small church with stunning gilded altarpieces and artworks. My favorite tile work was the panoramic illustration of Lisbon. it shows how Lisbon was before the 1755 earthquake. The tilework is located on the upper floor of the museum.

You can’t leave Lisbon without a photo of some beautiful painted tiles! So definitely find a great spot with one of the artworks! I also loved the inner courtyards lined with arches that create the perfect place for unique photos.

Location: National Tile Museum

17. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is among the best viewpoints in Lisbon for sure. If you are looking for the perfect place to watch the sunset in Lisbon, this is probably the most popular viewpoint of all. The views are fantastic and perfect for a photo!

This viewpoint is located in a churchyard on the highest point on one of the hills in Lisbon. It will definitely be a decent hike up to the viewpoint however you can always rent a tuk-tuk to get around Lisbon without constantly battling the hills, haha!

We visited this viewpoint in the morning and during the day. It offers sweeping views over the whole city and is probably one of the best viewpoints you will find in Lisbon. It will definitely be full of buzz during the day and evening, but the views are worth it!

Location: Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

18. Basílica of Estrela

The Estrela Basilica was one of my favorite and most beautiful places in Lisbon ! This 18th-century church was ordered by Queen Maria I of Portugal and today holds Queen Maria’s tomb inside the premises of the building. You can visit the church for free.

However, the most special thing about the church is that you can climb up to the roof to see the impressive dome and two bell towers up close. I always love climbing up to the rooftops wherever I can and this basilica offers the most amazing views!

There is a small door to enter the dome and see it from within. It is quite spectacular and incredible! It is hard to imagine what it was like for them to build such a grand and complex building centuries ago. A visit to the roof costs 4 EUR per person.

Basílica of Estrela is definitely one of the most beautiful places and one of the most iconic Lisbon Instagram spots! Because it is a bit further away from the center of the city it gets fewer visitors than other Lisbon landmarks. I highly recommend visiting it if you can!

Location: Basílica of Estrela

19. Miradouro da Graça

One of the best viewpoints in Lisbon is Miradouro da Graça. It is a beautiful scenic terrace on one of the hills of Lisbon offering stunning panoramic views over the whole city. I especially loved the view of the São Jorge Castle on a nearby hill!

Basically, the whole hill is like a viewpoint but there are many parts that you can visit – there is a beautiful large park with benches and trees that offer shade during the day. But there is also a large terrace with a restaurant next to the church .

The photos were taken from a square right next to the Igreja Paroquial da Graça church. It must be one of the most popular places to watch the sunset in Lisbon as it offers sweeping views in the direction of the sunset. I really loved this spot!

Location: Miradouro da Graça

20. Convento da Graça

The incredible Convento da Graça was one of my favorite hidden gems in Lisbon and it is full of amazing Instagram spots as well! Convento da Graça is one of the oldest convents in Lisbon located on the highest hill in the city.

The convent was founded in the 13th century and survived the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Today you can visit the ground floor of the complex for free – it features a large courtyard and some of the most amazing tile illustrations you will see in Lisbon!

However, there is an extra hidden gem to the convent – you can actually climb on the roof of Convento da Graça! Tickets to the rooftop terrace cost 5 EUR and there is even a drink included in the price. You can opt for a glass of wine or a glass of juice.

The rooftop of the convent gives you panoramic views over the whole of Lisbon. The best views are right next to the bell tower – don’t forget to walk behind it to get the best views! This was one of my favorite viewpoints and hidden gems in Lisbon !

My favorite Instagram spots here were the bench with tiles on the back wall that is located at the entrance to the church, then the hall inside the convent with walls covered by tile illustrations, and, of course, the courtyard and the roof.

Location: Convento da Graça

21. Ler Devagar bookstore in LX Factory

Ler Devagar book store in LX Factory is amongst the most unique places in Lisbon! It is a one-of-a-kind two-story book store with walls lined with bookshelves. It even has a coffee shop on the second level of the bookstore.

You can find one of the most unique and iconic Instagram spots right in this bookstore. If you climb up to the upper level and then walk around the perimeter you can get this cool view of the book-filled shelves and the cyclist on the bike attached to the stairs.

Ler Devagar bookstore is located inside the LX Factory complex. It was once an industrial textile complex but now it is turned into a creative hub hosting unique restaurants, artsy shops, and trendy cafés. It looks pretty cool!

Location: Ler Devagar

22. MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology

MAAT is short for the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology. Although I can’t say a single word about the museum itself because I did not visit the inside, I can say that the MAAT building is one of the most futuristic, alien-like buildings in Lisbon!

MAAT building is located on the riverside in the district of Belém. You can not only admire the building from the outside or explore the events and exhibitions on the inside, but you can also climb up to the rooftop viewpoint (for free).

MAAT building offers some of the most unique and creative angles for photos. I loved the winding shapes of the building and the shadow lines it creates. It is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset and is a popular place for people to gather.

Location: MAAT

23. Ponte 25 de Abril

Lisbon only has two bridges and both of them are pretty impressive and iconic. One of the bridges is Ponte 25 de Abril or the April 25th bridge named after the date of the 1974 Carnation Revolution – a military coup that resulted in Portugal’s redemocratization.

Ponte 25 de Abril is an iconic place in Lisbon so this is probably one of the most iconic Instagram spots in Lisbon you can find! If you happen to stroll around the promenade in the Belém district then stop by for a photo!

Location: Ponte 25 de Abril – Photo location

24. Monument of the Discoveries and Compass Rose

Only a short walk away from the famous Belém Tower you will find a very unique place – a massive monument. It is named the Monument of the Discoveries and was constructed in the middle of the 20th century.

The monument celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery during the 15th and 16th centuries. The monument is a massive 52 meters high with 33 statues of historic figures of the Age of Discovery including monarchs, explorers, scientists, and more.

Right next to the massive monument, you will find a compass rose – it covers the square next to the monument and was gifted by the South African government. These two amazing spots are perfect for a photo!

Location: Monument of the Discoveries – Compass Rose

25. Street Art by Bordalo II

Bordalo II is a famous Portuguese street artist and activist. He is famous for creating usually large-sized street art murals (very often they are animals) out of recycled trash. His works are mounted on the walls in cities around the world.

His work is a method of criticizing the over-consumption in the world. You can see his works in maaany places in Lisbon and Portugal – just search for ‘Bordalo II’ on Google Maps and you will find the locations for all of his works!

My favorite was the big raccoon in Belém that you can visit at the same time when you go to the Jerónimos Monastery. And also the bumblebee inside the LX Factory that you can visit if you go to the famous Ler Devagar bookstore (I mentioned it previously!).

Location: Big Raccoon – Monkey – Bumblebee

26. Vasco da Gama bridge from Tejo Park

Vasco da Gama bridge is the second of two iconic bridges that cross the Tagus river in Lisbon. If you happen to be around the Vasco da Gama bridge, then definitely check out the riverside area – there is a beautiful park and a wooden walkway in the river.

The park is a great place to go for some exercise as well as a picnic by the river. We happened to be there for the sunset. Although the sun sets from behind, the sky still turned beautifully pink. It is a cool spot for an iconic photo of the iconic bridge!

The bridge itself is quite famous – with its 12.4 kilometers it is the longest bridge in Europe. It was finished in 1998 – 500 years after the Portuguese explorer discovered a sea route from Europe to India.

Location: Vasco da Gama Bridge – Tejo Park

27. Panorâmico de Monsanto

Panorâmico de Monsanto is one of my favorite hidden gems in Lisbon and the coolest Instagram spots as well. This secret viewpoint is actually an abandoned multi-story building that was once a high-end restaurant with scenic views over Lisbon.

The restaurant was opened in 1967 as a restaurant-café and later served for many purposes until it was eventually abandoned. Recently the municipality decided to clean it and make it more presentable as people were still going there for panoramic views.

The building is now full of street art murals and art installations, however, the main attraction here is the view. I like to call it the balcony of Lisbon as it really felt like it when we visited the viewpoint.

It is easily accessible by car (or taxi) as there is a big parking lot right next to it, however, I have heard that many people simply hike there on foot as the road there is very peaceful through the woods.

The territory has opening hours so check that before going! There is a fence and gate that will be closed outside working hours. When we went I also saw a security guard walking around. Entrance to the building and the territory is free.

Tip! Before going there, open Google Maps and check the reviews! Sort them to the newest reviews first and read through them! There might be times when it is simply closed and you don’t want to waste your time by going all the way there for nothing!

Location: Panorâmico de Monsanto

28. The Palace of Fronteira

Located next to the same Monsanto forest park where the Panorâmico de Monsanto viewpoint is, lays a beautiful palace – the Palace of the Marquesses of Fronteira. It is a stunning 17th-century palace with an expansive garden.

The palace is still the private residence of the Marquesses of Fronteira however you can buy tickets for guided tours to the inside of the palace or buy tickets to walk around the gardens. We only visited the gardens and it was very much worth it!

The gardens feature a pond with swans, fountains, numerous sculptures, and benches to sit on. The whole area is full of decorative bushes and blooming plants. But the central piece of the garden is the wall next to the pond.

The big wall has stairs on both sides where you can climb up to the upper part of the wall. It is lined with statues of the Kings of Portugal. The whole wall is blue and decorated with glazed tiles.

Hidden in the corner of the garden you will find a special chapel. It is covered with stones, shells, and broken porcelain and glass. It was my favorite place in the gardens. The area is full of picture-perfect corners where you can get some unique photos!

Location: The Palace of Fronteira

29. Rossio railway station

Rossio railway station is one of the busiest and central train stations in Lisbon located right next to the famous Rossio square. The station was built in the 19th century in the Neo-Manueline architectural style.

The architecture is what really makes it special. Especially the beautiful facade of the trail station. The entrance goes through two intertwined horseshoe-shaped portals decorated with ornate details with a small statue of King Sebastian of Portugal in between.

The small more-than-a-hundred-year-old statue was actually accidentally destroyed in 2016 (somebody tried to climb up to take a selfie and broke it), so this must be a replica. If you happen to be there, definitely stop by to take a look or even get a photo!

Location: Rossio railway station

30. Arco do Bandeira and the Praça do Rossio

If you check out the Rossio railway station then you might as well take a look at the Rossio square next to it. It is Lisbon’s central square filled with two Baroque fountains and a statue of Dom Pedro I – founder and first ruler of the Empire of Brazil.

At one end of the square, you will find the Portuguese National Theater built in the 19th century in a Neoclassical architectural style featuring six Ionic columns borrowed from the Saint Francis Convent of Lisbon.

But on the South end, you will find a unique spot and an example of the Pombaline architecture of the late 18th century – Arco do Bandeira. It is a yellow gateway – a portal where you can see the whole square through it! A cute photo spot if you are nearby!

Location: Arco do Bandeira – Praça do Rossio

31. Casa São Miguel café

Casa São Miguel café is probably the most cutest, charming, and picturesque cafés in Lisbon! Especially the outside of the café with the cute decorations, tiles, and little chairs next to the tables.

The café offers very nice pastry options as well as tea, coffee, and other drinks. We came here specifically for the pastel de nata and it did not disappoint – I loved it. And I know how to tell between a good pastel de nata and not so good. This was spot on!

The charming café has become a star on social media so I have to include it among the most iconic Instagram spots in Lisbon. If you find yourself in the Alfama district, then definitely stop by for some breakfast or simply a pastry with coffee. It is worth it!

Location: Casa São Miguel

32. Street art and flower tunnel in Graça

Graça neighborhood in Lisbon (it is now called São Vicente) is famous for its street art and different paintings on the walls. If you happen to visit the Convento da Graça or climb up to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte viewpoint then stop by some street art!

The murals are pretty massive and very impressive. Some of the most iconic ones include a mural by Shepard Fairy , and by the artist OzeArv . In the same neighborhood, you will wind a beautifully painted tunnel – the perfect spot for a photo!

Location: Street with murals – Painted tunnel

33. Flowerwall at the Museum of Saint Anthony

First of all, I have to warn you – it seems that the cute wall covered with flowers next to the Museum of Saint Anthony is not a year-round thing. The flowers seem to only be a thing during the sunny season. But it makes for the perfect photo spot in Lisbon!

It seems that the wall changes over the seasons and it turns into the wall of ceramic dishes during winter. In any case, this spot is located right next to some of the most iconic places in Lisbon, like the Lisbon Cathedral, so walk by and check it out!

Location: Flowerwall

More Lisbon travel inspiration!

• 23 unique hidden gems and secret spots in Lisbon, Portugal
• 19 most beautiful places in Lisbon, Portugal
• 17 best viewpoints and rooftops to see Lisbon from above
• 11 best pastel de nata spots in Lisbon (I tried them all!)

Happy exploring!

Lisbon is a city like no other – rich in history, picturesque from the many viewpoints, beautiful with art and colorful tiles as well as tasty if you try those iconic pastel de nata pastries. I have been to Lisbon many times and I already can’t wait to go back.

I hope you enjoy your time in Lisbon as much as we did! And I hope you will get some travel inspiration from this blog post to make your trip to Lisbon – one of the oldest cities in the world – even more adventurous, fun, and exciting!

PIN FOR LATER!

Marta is an economist turned full-time traveler. She comes from a small village in a small country (Latvia) with a big dream to see the big World and share it all with you!

On Explored by Marta, you will find travel guides and bucket lists made for active travelers who plan their own itineraries with a little bit of everything - must-see spots, hidden gems, cities, nature, fun adventures, and relaxation!

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The 15 Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon + Map

By: Author Christine Wheeler

Posted on Published: January 3, 2019  - Last updated: December 22, 2019

Lisbon is a beautiful city full of picture perfect backdrops. When we found a flight for $550 round trip from Florida to Barcelona through Next Vacay ( find out why we love using them so much here ), we booked it and planned a trip to visit family for Thanksgiving.

With a few days before we met up with family, we added on a five day road trip through Portugal, taking time to find the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon. By the end of the trip, Portugal became one of our favorite travel destinations .

Lisbon has enough to see that we could have spent all five days there. However, with rainy weather a few of the days, we decided to escape the rain for sunny skies in northern and southern Portugal a couple of the days. That left us with two full days in Lisbon and one day in Sintra , an easy day trip that is worth every minute.

Because many of the most Instagrammable spots in Lisbon are close to each other, we had no problem fitting all these places into the time we had in Lisbon. In this guide, you can find the best photo spots in Lisbon, a map to plan the route that works best for you, suggestions on when to visit each place for the best pictures, and where to stay while you explore Lisbon. As a bonus for those of you looking for a cheaper European destination, Lisbon is one of the cities in Europe you can visit for less than $50 a day .

***Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.

MAP OF THE MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES IN LISBON

Use this map of the most Instagrammable spots in Lisbon to help plan your trip. This map includes the exact locations for the most popular photo spots in Lisbon. Feel free to save it to your own maps to use for your trip to Lisbon.

WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON & HOW TO GET AROUND LISBON

We stayed at the Czar Lisbon Hotel . We like to find hotels with free breakfast and not too far from the main sites. This hotel included both. It was about a 10 – 15 minute drive to most of the Instagrammable places in Lisbon or about a 1.5 mile (2.4 km) walk to most places. For other hotel options in Lisbon, click here for Agoda’s best Lisbon hotel deals and here to find the best deals on Booking.com .

Because we wanted to see more than just Lisbon, we rented a car at the airport from Goldcar. Our hotel included parking for a fee, but you can park on most streets overnight for free on weekends. Having a car made it easy to get around Lisbon’s main areas. Figuring out parking was not always easy though. Thankfully the locals were helpful (usually homeless men who helped you find a spot for a small tip).

We mostly drove to an area and then parked and walked everywhere from there. When we wanted to get to areas where parking would be a problem, we used Uber and then walked. During high traffic times, we had trouble with Uber. We ordered an Uber that said it would arrive in 5 minutes. About 10 minutes later, it continued driving further away from us. We eventually cancelled it and tried nearby public transportation. However, the station near us was shut down as well. We ended up getting another Uber, but that Uber also took much longer than the app said to arrive.

There is public transportation in Lisbon. We typically use public transportation but did not in Lisbon. It was not available when we needed it. The rest of the time we had our car or chose Uber. For example, to get to Belem Tower from our hotel took an hour and a half by public transportation. By car or Uber, it only took 30 minutes. With that much of a time difference, it made more sense to use Uber or our rental car to see everything we wanted to see.

Belem Tower at sunset

15+ OF THE MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES IN LISBON

We visited Lisbon in November. The weather was perfect and the crowds were light. If you visit in the summer, realize that the city will be more crowded in general. If you want to find some of these places quiet in the summer to get pictures of it empty, make sure to wake up very early. Visiting in November made it easier with a later sunrise, cooler weather, and lower numbers of visitors in the area.

Be aware that some of these places are busy on weekday mornings. As people rush to make it to work on time, some areas get crowded until everyone finds his or her way. On weekend mornings, it is quieter as people sleep in instead of rushing off to work. If you can use a weekend morning for pictures at some of the more crowded spots, it makes it easier get get your Instagram shots without having to wait for the area to clear out.

View from Portas do Sol

MIRADOURO DE SANTA LUZIA & PORTAS DO SOL

Best time to visit: Sunrise Nearby Instagrammable Places: Alfama District, Lisbon Cathedral

If you are looking for a sunrise view overlooking Lisbon and the water, you can’t go wrong with either of these options. When we arrived for sunrise, they were both pretty empty. A few other people stopped by during the sunrise, but no more than 5 people were in the area at once.

Be prepared to walk uphill if you aren’t staying in Alfama (and maybe even then). You can also take a streetcar or Uber if you want an easier option or get a late start. Both of these lookouts are right next to each other, so you can easily check out both at once. If one is crowded, simply head over to the other. It takes about 2 – 3 minutes to walk between them.

Portas do Sol is a deck to look out, but it does have a better city view. Miradouro de Santa Luzia has a view of one section of the city but also is a prettier area. It is worth it to check out both to see which one you prefer. Even if you don’t go at sunrise, both are worth a quick stop for the views they offer.

Miradouro de Sana Luzia at sunrise

View of sunrise from Miradouro de Sana Luzia

LISBON CATHEDRAL

Best time to visit: Morning Nearby Instagrammable Places: Alfama District, Arco da Rua Augusta, Praca do Comerio

The Lisbon Cathedral is the oldest church in Lisbon. Located between the Alfama district and the viewpoints there and the Arco da Rua Augusta, it makes for a quick stop if you walk between the two. Enjoy the views of the Alfama district on the way or head back later to wander the streets.

We only stopped to take pictures and did not plan to stop here at all. As we walked from watching the sunrise to the Arco da Rua Augusta, we passed the church and stopped. You can go inside during opening hours and look around as well. The exterior is beautiful though and makes for a great backdrop.

Lisbon Cathedral

ARCO DA RUA AUGUSTA & PRACA DO COMERCIO

Best time to visit: Morning, especially on weekends Nearby Instagrammable Places: Lisbon Cathedral, Praca do Comerio, Rua Augusta, Amorino Baixa, Pink Street

The Arco da Rua Augusta is one of the famous popular Instagram photo locations in Lisbon. When we visited, there was scaffolding up on the side of the arch facing the Praca do Comercio. The side facing the plaza is more popular because you can get the picture with the statue through the arch.

From the Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol, it is only a 15 minute walk (0.6 miles or a little less than a kilometer) to the Arco da Rua Augusta. The route crosses in front of the Lisbon Cathedral, making it an easy stop along the way.

This arch and plaza can be crowded on weekday mornings in winter. Thanks to the later sunrise time coinciding with the morning commute to work in winter, you are less likely to find it completely empty on weekday mornings. Be patient or visit on a weekend morning to find less crowds. In summer, this is less likely to be a problem if you are willing to get up and be there just after sunrise. Either way, you want to be here early if you want photos without many people in them. It only gets busier as the day goes on.

While the photos you see on Instagram are usually taken facing the plaza, make sure to walk through the arch to the Praca do Comercio to enjoy the view from this side as well. In the morning, the sunlight lights up this side of the arch. The plaza also is pretty for pictures, so don’t just see the arch and leave.

Arco da Rua Augusta from the Praca do Comercio

LISBON’S FAMOUS PINK STREET

Best time to visit: Later in the morning (around 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.) Nearby Instagrammable Places: Arco da Rua Augusta, Praca do Comerio, Elevador da Bica

From the arch, it is only a 10 minute (0.4 mile or .6 kilometer) walk to one of Lisbon’s most popular Instagram photo locations, Pink Street. How can a street pained pink and surrounded by colorful buildings not be one of the most Instagrammable spots in Lisbon?

If you can manage it later in the day, skip Pink Street in the morning. In the morning, it is covered with trash from partying the night before. If you want nightlife, Pink Street is a popular place to be. That leads to trash and a not so pretty smell the next morning. If you come back later in the day, in the early afternoon or late morning, it is cleaned up and smells much better.

We visited Pink Street twice, once in the morning after the Arco da Rua Augusta around 8:45 a.m. and a second time around 10:30 a.m. The first time it was littered with trash and dirty water from rain the day before. The owners of the stores and bars started coming out to sweep the street when we visited earlier in the morning. When we went back a second time around 10:30 a.m., it was all cleaned up and smelled much better.

Both times it was pretty empty. A few locals walked through and a couple of other people stopped to take pictures and kept moving. Despite the popularity of this spot on Instagram, it is not crowded or difficult to get pictures of the street empty. In the summer time, this area may be a little more popular. However, you can still get pictures of it empty in the morning.

Pink Street is also a lot shorter than you may expect. It is basically just a block on either side of the bridge that appears in the photos. I’m not sure why I expected it to be a bigger street, but it is hidden among the buildings and you kind of just stumble upon it.

Pink Street at 10:30 a.m.

ELEVADOR DA BICA

Best time to visit: Morning Nearby Instagrammable Places: Pink Street, Arco da Rua Augusta

This is one of the most famous funiculars in Lisbon and only a few minutes from Pink Street or about 15 minutes walking from the Arco da Rua Augusta (0.7 miles or about a kilometer). When looking for the Elevador da Bica, the address on the map is likely to take you to the bottom of the hill. You won’t see the funicular right away since it is inside a building. There is a sign on the front of the building, so keep your eyes open for it.

We decided to ride it, but you can also just walk along the sidewalk that goes next to it. If you have a Lisbon card, transportation including the streetcars and funiculars is free. If not, you can pay about €5 for a round trip ride. Supposedly you can ride in one direction for free on some of the funiculars, but we did not find that to be true here.

We got there around 9:30 a.m. and found that not many people were riding the funicular or in the area. The people who were walking alongside the track seemed to mostly be locals going about their business. This area does get crowded later in the day, so it makes a good stop in the morning.

Elevador da Bica

BELEM TOWER

Best time to visit: Morning (by 9 a.m.) or evening (45 minutes to an hour before closing) Nearby Instagrammable Places: Monument to the Discoveries, 25 de Abril Bridge, Jeronimo’s Monastery

Belem Tower is another of the most popular Instagram photo spots in Lisbon and commonly makes an appearance on the social media app. We actually ended up visiting Belem Tower three times, once in the morning and twice in the evening. Belem Tower is the perfect spot for sunset in Lisbon, but it also makes for beautiful photos in the morning.

Getting to Belem Tower and the nearby Instagrammable places is a little more difficult than most of the places in this list. Belem is actually about 20 – 30 minutes away from Lisbon. From our hotel, it took about an hour and a half by bus or about half an hour by car. Because we had a rental car, we drove over. There is parking in the area, and from there you can walk to the other nearby places. If you do not have a rental car, you may want to take a taxi or Uber if public transportation timing is not convenient for your visit.

The only reason to visit in the morning is to get the pictures of Belem Tower with no one around. As soon as the tower opens, the bridge stays crowded all day. It closes near sunset at night making it hard to get pictures of the tower alone. Because it is a popular sunset spot, the area is crowded in the evening.

The bridge to the tower is shut down before it opens and after it closes. If you are going to Belem Tower when it opens, get there earlier to get pictures with the bridge empty and no one around. Sometimes in the summer there can be a line once it opens at 10 a.m. If you want to get pictures before the line forms, plan to be there by 9 a.m. To make sure we did not have that problem, we went around 8:30 a.m.

The bridge does have a barrier across it when it is closed. This surprised me based on pictures I saw of Belem Tower on Instagram. At night, the security guards kick everyone off the bridge before locking the barrier into place. You can jump over or crawl under it, and from Instagram photos, you can tell some people do. Be aware that their are cops in the area who drive by though when deciding if it is worth it. You can get plenty of beautiful photos from either side of the tower or the sand bank next to it depending on the tide without sneaking past the barrier.

Belem Tower near sunrise

If you want to go inside Belem Tower, visiting just before closing is the best time to go. Belem Tower is the best spot in Lisbon for sunset to me, so we planned to visit just before closing. This let us have a chance to go inside and then stick around for sunset. In November, the sun sets behind the tower if you stay on the same side of the tower as the bridge.

Entry into the tower costs €6 or you can buy a combination ticket for Jeronimo’s Monastery. There is not much inside to see, so we found that getting there about 45 minutes before closing was enough. The tower has multiple levels to explore once you are inside. Some do not have much to see, but several have good views of the bridge, surrounding area or the rest of the tower.

The only part of visiting the tower that takes time is the stairs. There is only one stairwell in the tower, so they use a traffic light system to make the stairs only up and then only down. You may have to wait a few minutes depending on when you get to the stairwell to move up or down in the tower. Because of this, it takes a little longer to see everything than it would otherwise.

If you visit near closing, start at the top of the tower and then work your way down. They start kicking everyone out starting at the top of the tower about 10 minutes before closing. They slowly work their way down from the top to get everyone out by the time closing hits. From that point, you have about 15 more minutes on the bridge to get any pictures while they finish up inside. Once they come out, they clear the bridge and put the gate back across it. This gives you a little more time before it gets dark to get pictures without anyone on the bridge.

Inside Belem Tower at sunset.

Inside Belem Tower

MONUMENT TO THE DISCOVERIES

Best time to visit: Morning Nearby Instagrammable Places: Belem Tower, 25 de Abril Bridge, Jeronimo’s Monastery

There is a path along the river that leads from Belem Tower to the Monument to the Discoveries. It only takes about 15 minutes to walk between the two. You can also drive it in just a couple of minutes. This monument celebrates Portuguese explorers and their achievements in history.

We did not go in the Monument , but that is an option. Before it opens at 10 a.m., the area is empty. The outside of the monument is impressive and covered in carvings of explorers from Portugal. Unfortunately, due to a hard drive issue, the only photos I have from this morning of the trip are the few I took on my phone.

Monument to the Discoveries

25 DE ABRIL BRIDGE

Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon Nearby Instagrammable Places: Monument to the Discoveries, Belem Tower, Jeronimo’s Monastery

JERONIMOS MONASTERY

Best time to visit: Morning (right when it opens at 10 a.m.) or just before closing Nearby Instagrammable Places: Belem Tower, Monument to the Discoveries

Jeronimos Monastery was my favorite stop in Lisbon and well-deserving of a spot on any list of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon. It is only a few minutes by car or about a 15 minute walk from Belem Tower. If you don’t have a car, you may want to see both at the same time while you are in the area. We went after our morning looking at the bridge, tower, and monument, but we also came back to the area at a different time to go in Belem Tower.

Construction on the monastery began in 1501, and it is so beautiful and full of detail throughout. Going into the attached church is free and does not require a ticket. Most tour groups seemed to take this option. If you want to visit the actual Monastery, you will need a ticket. Entry is €10 per person, or you can do a combined ticket with Belem Tower for €12.

Exterior of Jeronimo’s Monastery

I strongly suggest being at Jeronimos Monastery right when it opens at 10 a.m. to beat at least some of the tour groups. It gets more crowded as the day goes on. You can also visit just before closing as the crowds empty out, but then you may be pressed for time. Purchase your tickets from the building right next to the monastery, the Museum of Maritime. We did not visit the museum other than to purchase our tickets, but it is an option if you are interested.

Once you have your tickets, go straight into the monastery. It is two stories, and make sure you visit both. The lower floor stays more crowded, and there will almost always be people in the courtyard (except when it rains like it did while we were there). From the upper floor, you also have access to a balcony with a view of the church. We did not go in the free part of the church since we could enjoy the view with fewer people from the balcony.

For anyone who travels solo, the monastery allows selfie sticks. However, we set up the tripod to take pictures of the two of us together, and someone came over to tell us that we could not use a tripod there for security reasons. Be prepared and have another option for photos with you in them. The monastery is built in a way that there are lots of places to set your camera to still get pictures without a tripod.

Jeronimo’s Monastery

CARMO CONVENT

Best time to visit: Anytime in winter but morning may be better for crowds in summer Nearby Instagrammable Places: Bairro Alto, Amorino Baixa, Praca Dos Restauradores

Carmo Convent is back in Lisbon and is actually somewhere we visited in the afternoon. In the winter, this was okay as there were very few other people there. I think that this might be different in the summer. The Carmo Convent has similar hours to everything else in Lisbon, but anytime near open or close should find it emptier than midday.

The convent is mostly open air, so you want to visit on a day with good weather. Because it is closed in but open air, the shadows can be harsh depending on when you visit. The roof of the nave collapsed in an earthquake and was never restored. Only the arches remain, making it look a little like the ruins in ancient Greece.

There are some stairs when you first enter the convent that you can use to take pictures from different angles. You may have to be patient to get pictures without many people in the background. Since there isn’t much to read in this part of the convent, most people move on quickly. The stairs also make it easier to set up your camera if you are alone and do not have a tripod with you for pictures.

If you walk all the way through the convent, you can enter the building in the back which is a museum and shop. The museum has artifacts from Portuguese history spread out through a few rooms. It doesn’t take long to walk through unless you really take time to study each piece. You enter into one of the middle rooms, so it makes it easier to start in the room to the right and then work your way through the rooms if you are interested.

Carmo Convent

CASA DO ALENTEJO

Best time to visit: Early afternoon Nearby Instagrammable Places: Rua Augusta, Praca dos Restauradores

This beautiful restaurant looks like something straight out of Morocco. We decided not to eat there, but you can go in and enjoy the courtyard area and part of the upstairs without entering the restaurant. We went here right around 1 p.m. and found no one else there except those eating in the restaurant. I don’t think it ever gets crowded for taking pictures, so you can stop by anytime if this is somewhere you want to see.

Courtyard at Casa do Alentejo

RUA AUGUSTA & PRACA DOS RESTAURADORES

Best time to visit: Early Afternoon/Evening Nearby Instagrammable Places: Casa do Alentejo, Amorino Baixa, Ascensor da Gloria

This area is perfect for lunch or dinner while crowds fill the other Instagrammable spots in Lisbon. If you are looking for food, you will find plenty of options in this area right near Casa Do Alentejo. You have the plaza, and plenty of restaurant options along side streets. We wandered down Rua das Portas de Santo Antao one day and found it hard to choose a place because there were so many options.

The next day we decided to walk down Rua Augusta to find food and a certain ice cream shop. Rua Augusta allows foot traffic only, so restaurants along the side of the road also set up outdoor seating in the middle of the road. Since the weather was nice, we decided to eat outdoors at one of the many Portuguese restaurants. You can also find plenty of places to buy the famous pastel de nata along the street.

Praca dos Restauradores near Christmas

I will warn you that this area is full of drugs like marijuana and cocaine. We had many people (at least 15 – 20) approach us to sell us drugs as we walked down Rua Augusta looking for food. Many took a simple no and walked away, but some were more pushy, taking offense when you turned them down. We decided to eat outdoors, but at least three or four more people approached us while we were sitting down eating. One of them began mocking us when we turned him down. The restaurant did nothing to keep them away. It was not a pleasant experience for dining, and I would probably choose indoor dining if we ate on Rua Augusta again.

GET AN INSTAGRAMMABLE GELATO AT AMORINO BAIXA

Best time to visit: Afternoon Nearby Instagrammable Places: Rua Augusta, Arco da Rua Augusta, Praca dos Restauradores, Carmo Convent

Yes, one of my Instagrammable places in Lisbon is a gelato shop. I eat ice cream or gelato in every country we visit, and I could not pass up rose-shaped gelato cones at Amorino Baixa. Amorino Baixa is on Rua Augusta and near the Arco da Rua Augusta. The gelato appears as if it is rose petals inside the cone. If you want pictures with your cone, take them quickly or have a plan to get to the place you want pictures quickly as it will melt. We had a few extra minutes thanks to the cooler weather in winter, but summer would make it an extra challenge. The gelato is not only pretty, it was good!

Gelato from Amorino Baixa

ASCENSOR DA GLORIA & LOOKOUT

Best time to visit: Morning or Afternoon Nearby Instagrammable Places: Praca dos Restauradores, Casa Alentejo, Bairro Alto

From Rua Augusta and Praca dos Restauradores, it was a short walk to this popular funicular. You have a choice to ride or walk to the top. While we rode up, we walked back down. Graffiti and street art covers the walls along the tracks. Since tickets are round trip, we gave our tickets to someone else at the top and walked down to take in the artwork. Be careful though – it can be a slippery walk if the path is at all wet.

At the top of the funicular, if you look to the right, you will see a park and a lookout area. This it the Sao Pedro de Alcantara Garden. It provides a wonderful view of Lisbon and a good starting point to walk around Bairro Alto.

Ascensor da Gloria

Street art along the tracks for Ascensor da Gloria

BAIRRO ALTO & ALFAMA DISTRICT

Best time to visit: Morning or Afternoon Nearby Instagrammable Places: Ascensor da Gloria & Carmo Convent (Bairro Alto), Miradouro de Santa Luzia, Portas do Sol, and Lisbon Cathedral (Alfama District)

These areas are two of the most popular for strolling around. You can find all kinds of beautiful tile work and colorful buildings that make for the perfect Instagram backdrop. Be prepared for some hills and watch out for the tiled sidewalks after the rain. You really cannot go wrong in either area, so just wander around and see what you can find.

Really, any time of day is good for this. We happened to be in Alfama in the morning after sunrise and in Bairro Alto in the late afternoon after lunch. Because there are so many cute streets to wander down, if one area is crowded, just keep walking until you find something else. In the summer, these areas are popular for exploring and the weather can get quite warm, so you may want to wander the streets in these areas in the coolness of the morning or evening instead of when the sun is high in the sky.

Christmas decorations in Bairro Alto

Tiles in Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LISBON?

We visited Lisbon in November, and it was perfect. We did have to contend with the rain a few days, but the temperatures were perfect for walking up and down the hills in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon, like most cities in Europe that are popular on social media, gets crowded. It also gets hot in Lisbon in the summer, so take that into account if you visit then. If you can visit Lisbon in the fall, winter or spring, you will find much better temperatures and much less people, making it a perfect combination for exploring and taking pictures.

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT LISBON

Lisbon is a beautiful city full of Instagrammable photo locations, delicious food, and rich culture and history. It is perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. It even makes for a perfect base to explore the rest of Portugal, especially nearby Sintra which makes for the perfect day trip.

Looking for more Europe travel inspiration? Click here for more Europe travel ideas, tips and itineraries! All photos in this blog post were edited with my own presets and/or presets that can be purchased here (World Tour Collection is the one I use the most).

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Wednesday 16th of November 2022

Christine, this is GREAT - and timely for me as I get ready to leave for Lisbon in a few days. I have a quick question about your suggestion for Miradouro Santa Luzia. Is your suggestion to go catch a sunrise there (as opposed to a sunset) driven by lighting conditions or crowds? Any input on this would be super helpful. Thank you in advance.

Christine Wheeler

Saturday 19th of November 2022

Hi - I'm so glad you found this helpful! It's a little bit of both. Sunrise was beautiful there, but we also found there weren't many people. We also went at the end of November though, and the crowds really weren't bad anywhere we went closer to sunset either.

Friday 7th of May 2021

Great post, Christine. Lisbon is home to some beautiful architecture, isn't it? I love Alfama, I've always wanted to visit during the Santo António celebrations.

Monday 17th of May 2021

It really is - and that looks like a good time to visit!

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10 Top Lisbon Instagram Spots (2023)

From an epic castle on the hill to vibrant rainbow streets, these are the best Lisbon Instagram spots to visit in 2023.

Lisbon, the vibrant coastal capital of Portugal, is unlike any city I’ve visited before. It’s full of historic ruins, colourful streets and quirks galore. From an epic castle on the hill to a spectacular plaza, the city is also home to some seriously Instagrammable spots.

I must say, I think my favourite spots in Lisbon were the ones I found as I wandered through the neighbourhoods. The mishmash of terracotta roofs, cobblestone paths, wrought iron balconies and colourful facades made for such unique photos.

Whether you are drawn to the tourist hot spots or the lesser-known backstreets, there is no shortage of Instagram spots in Lisbon to visit. I’ve compiled this list with a few of my favourites:

10 Lisbon Instagram Spots to visit:

1. castelo de sao jorge, 2. belem tower, 3. praca do comercio, 4. rainbow underpass, 5. lisbon’s historic trams, 6. ler devagar bookshop, 7. docks of santo amaro, 8. miradouro de santa luzia, 9. jeronimos monastery, 10. cascais.

Address : R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal

The Castelo de Sao Jorge is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. Not only is it a great place to visit to learn about Lisbon’s history, it’s also a great spot to take some Insta-worthy photos.

As the castle is up on a hill, it offers panoramic views over the city. For the most epic Instagram photos, I’d definitely recommend visiting at sunset! It’s one of Lisbons’ best photo spots.

Address : Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal

Belem Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the early 16th century, the tower use to serve as a beacon for ships entering the harbour.

The striking structure makes for a great Instagram photo opportunity. You can also climb up the tower through a narrow spiral staircase. Here, you’ll find a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the city from the top.

Address : Praça do Comércio, 1100-148 Lisboa, Portugal

Located in the Baixia neighbourhood, Praca do Comercio is Lisbon’s most distinguishable square. Home to statues, fountains and historic buildings, this bustling square is full of photo spots.

One of the most beautiful parts of Praca do Comercia is the Rua Augusta Arch, built in neoclassical style. The arch looks particularly magnificent at night, when illuminated by the surrounding street lights.

Address : Av. Infante Santo, 1200-751 Lisboa

One of the most unexpectantly photogenic spots I stumbled upon in Lisbon was this rainbow underpass on Avenue Infante Santo. In 1959, a series of Renowned Portuguese artists were invited to decorate staircase panels in the area.

In 2001, Eduardo Nery expanded this decoration by bringing rainbow tiles to the underpass system. Head to the colourful overpass for one of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon!

Address : E28 Tram from Martim Moniz or Campo Ourique

Not only are trams an integral part of Lisbon’s public transport network… They also happen to be a great Instagram photo opportunity!

Make sure you get a historic “Remodelado” tram as opposed to a modern “Articulado” tram. These are the quaint yellow ones that rattle through the narrow streets of Lisbon. For the most scenic tram route, catch the E28!

Address : R. Rodrigues de Faria 103 – G 0.3, 1300-501 Lisboa

Ler Devagar was named one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, and it’s easy to see why. It is without a doubt one a must-visit Instagram spot in Lisbon!

This multi-level space is filled with books stacked from floor to ceiling and a quirky centrepiece of a floating bicycle. The bookshop also features a little cafe, and is designed as a space for people to hang out.

Address : Doca de Santo Amaro, Lisboa, Portugal

Lisbon’s 25 de Abril bridge may looks very familiar. That is because the design of this striking red suspension bridge was based on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

One of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon to view the bridge is from the docks of Santo Amaro. Here, you’ll find a cluster of restaurants and bars with outdoor seating that look out over the iconic bridge.

Address :   Largo Santa Luzia, 1100-487 Lisboa, Portugal

Another one of the most instagrammable places in Lisbon is the romantic terrace by the church of Santa Luzia. The Miradouro de Santa Luzia offers breathtaking views over the Alfama district of the city.

This is another great spot to catch the sunset and capture stunning photos of Lisbon. There is also a cafe on the terrace where you can grab a drink as you soak in the panoramic views.

Address : Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisboa, Portugal

Don’t leave Lisbon without visiting the breathtakingly beautiful Jeronimos Monastery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built all the way back in the 15th century. To this day, it is one of the best photo spots in Lisbon.

The monastery was designed in a lavishly ornate architecture later described as Manueline style. On the outside, the monastery features rows of magnificent cloisters and unique sea motifs carved in limestone. Inside the church with a high vaulted ceiling supported by spindly supports.

Getting to Cascais from Lisbon : Catch the Linha de Cascais urban railway

If you’re willing to venture outside of Lisbon, the charming seaside town of Cascais is brimming with Instagrammable places. With it’s swirling cobbled pathways, colourful street art and sandy beaches, there is a photo opportunity around every corner!

Cascais only takes 40 minutes to get to from Lisbon by train. It’s worth spending the day here if you have the time. Whether you want to laze on the beach, feast on fresh seafood or soak in the unique architecture, there is plenty to see and do!

For more Instagram spots in Europe:

• 5 Most Instagrammable Places in Europe
• 20 Most Instagrammable Places in Paris
• Top Tips for Photographing Venice, Italy

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The ultimate list of Lisbon Instagram spots

So you’ve planned your trip to Lisbon, Portugal and you want to take some incredible pictures but don’t know where to go for that? Worry not, I have you covered! For my 4 days in Lisbon itinerary, I’ve made sure to check off my list some of the most perfect Lisbon Instagram spots. 

No matter if you are planning to go on a backpacking tour of Portugal on a budget, or you are on your honeymoon or a special vacation, beautiful pictures should always be on your list of things to do. 

And Lisbon, with its colorful buildings, blue tile walls, impressive hills, delicious food, and whatnot, is just the place to cater to any photographer’s needs. Even the most demanding of you will find at least a few appealing places for your pictures. 

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You don’t have to travel much to get some charming corners, all you have to do is simply step outside!

Extra tip: when you don’t want to worry too much about the quality of your pictures, hire a local professional photographer and get some remarkable memories! Flytographer matches you with some of the best phorographers from Lisbon! The best thing? They know how to work the light and you can check out their past work before booking! 

But if you don’t have the time or budget for that, here is where you will need to go in order to take some perfect Instagram-worthy pictures in Lisbon. 

The perfect Lisbon Instagram spots

To make it easier for you to find them in town, I’ve included all the Instagrammable places I’ve chosen on the map below. I know how hard it can be to create your itinerary, even if it’s for one day, 2 days, or more, and keep in mind all the picturesque places you want to get to.

But before we start talking about the Instagrammable places in Lisbon, you need to check out my other Lisbon travel guides that will make your vacation so much easy to plan: 

• 4 Days in Lisbon – the complete itinerary
• One full-day trip from Lisbon to Sintra

Make sure you also have a look at some of the most popular guided tours of Portugal’s capital:

Other things worth knowing for your Lisbon trip

Where to stay in Lisbon

No matter how you choose to travel, my suggestion is to book a hotel or apartment in the old town area. This way, you will be close to most of the important attractions and photo spots of Lisbon, and you won’t have to waste time commuting.

During our stay, we chose an apartment with a stunning terrace offering a view over the city and the sea. Because that’s what I’m usually looking for, here are a few of my accommodation recommendations. 

All these apartments can be easily considered as Instagram spots, and you can have some incredible pictures without even leaving your house:

• Marino Lisboa Boutique Hotel  – in the very heart of Lisbon, walking distance from  Martin Moniz  and  Rossio station , this place caught my eye because of its beautiful, clean, simple design yet blending in  traditional Portuguese patterns . What I’ve also liked is the rooftop terrace where breakfast is served.

Check it out here!

• Feeling Chiado 15  – I like everything about this place, and the reviews are certainly there to support my statement. The design, the rooms with a  view over Lisbon , the location right in the  Chiado area,  with all the stores and singing streets at your feet. Also, I’ve seen that some of the rooms are in the attic, and I’ve always had a soft spot for this kind of room, with a window in the ceiling making me feel like I can lay in my bed and stare at the stars.

See availability and prices here!

• River View Alfama Historic Lisbon  – One word can describe this place:  royal ! It is, in fact, a whole apartment, tucked on the streets in the  Alfama area , with a pretty little balcony overlooking the river, and an amazing interior design.

See more here!

• Casa do Jasmim by Shiadu  – with a very special design, I think you can either love this place or not like it that much. I personally like it a lot, and if you are lucky to have the top floor, oh wow what a view! It can challenge any miradouro out there.

Getting around Lisbon

Even though public transportation is available, we chose to mainly walk around and occasionally use Uber – it is fast and relatively affordable in Lisbon. 

Lisbon Instagrammable places

BELEM TOWER

Start your day with a trip to the Belem Tower when you want to skip the crowds. It is worth going 30 minutes before they open the gates and you can actually see it without people on the main bridge.

Its beautiful architecture and perfect location, make it one of the most important tourist attractions of Lisbon. 

I must admit that the inside is not as impressive as the outside, but it is worth a visit since you’re already here. 

Book your skip-the-line ticket for Belem Tower and make the best out of your time!

Other Instagram spots in the area: 

• Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• The Rose Compass

THE JERONIMOS MONASTERY

With its remarkable architecture, surrounded by a park, with some impressive water fountains just across the street from the sea, the Jeronimos Monastery is yet another photo spot in Lisbon. 

Part of the UNESCO World Heritage, the Monastery dates from the 16th century and I would recommend booking a ticket and seeing it also from the inside.  

PASTEIS DE BELEM

Enter the world of one of the most delicious sweets you will ever taste!

The Pastéis de Belém is the best place to go to when you are looking for the best pasteis de nata in town. Trust me, we’ve tasted the sweet egg tart as often as we could!

Stop here also for some pictures with the beautiful and iconic blue and white tiles.

Also in the area: 

• Palacio Nacional de Belem
• Jardim Botanico Tropical

LISBON CONGRESS CENTER

Boasting impressive views whichever way you choose to look, I feel like this is one of the hidden gems of Lisbon when it comes to photography spots. 

Even though most of the other places were crowded as we explored them, we had this particular one all to ourselves when we got there! 

Choose to bring some food and maybe a bottle of wine and just chill while taking in the beauty of Lisbon. 

PONTE 25 DE ABRIL

You don’t have to cross the bridge in order to capture the best photo with it. 

Walk the road along the Tagus, stop at the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology, and look for the best spot from where you will capture your dream photo. 

LX Factory is such a vibrant area that you will find it hard to leave it behind and go somewhere else. 

Packed with colorful graffiti paintings, cool cafes and restaurants serving delicious food, this awesome library (it might not be Livreria Lello but it is still cool), and much more, LX Factory will give you a laid-back vibe you’ll absolutely love!

CAIS DO SODRE

The famous pink street with the blue and yellow buildings as the background is for sure one of the most popular Instagram places in Lisbon.

It is worth knowing that this is an area packed with bars that gets crowded as night falls, and when we got there early in the morning there were people washing the sidewalks.  That’s why, you might see the color of the pink street varies from one picture to the other, but I still think it is a beautiful place worth exploring for some pretty pictures. 

RUA DA BICA DE DUARTE BELO

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sina (@sinajohannamaria)

Maybe one of the most iconic pictures you’ll see from Lisbon – catching the yellow tram on the hills of Portugal’s capital. This is the right place to come just for that!

BAIXA – CHIADO

There’s not just one particular place in the Baixa-Chiado area where you will go for pictures. The whole area is filled with colorful buildings, small gardens, inspired graffitis, tiles, and so much more – any photographer’s dream!

ARCO DA RUA AUGUSTA

If you want to catch this place without the crowds, make your way here early in the morning and get the time to walk around and find your perfect spot!

As you make your way towards the other attractions of the area, you’ll find so many photography opportunities. 

Other Instagram spots in the area : 

• Carmo Convent

CASA DO ALENTEJO

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lucinda Gonçalves (@lucindagon.travel)

Don’t be fooled by the exterior of this house, because the interior will take your breath away!

The impressive courtyard has such a strong Moorish flavor to it that it will be hard to leave without at least a set of stunning pictures!

MIRADOURO DA GRACA

No matter the time of the day you choose to climb the stairs and get to the Miradouro da Graça you won’t be disappointed by the breathtaking views Lisbon will reward you with.

My favorite moment to come here was for sunset when we would enjoy a glass of wine at one of the terraces located in the small square while enjoying nature’s stunning show!

MIRADOURO DAS PORTAS DO SOL 

One of the most vibrant viewpoints over the city, the Miradouro das Portas do Sol is where almost everyone goes the first time they get to Lisbon. 

Even though it will be hard sometimes to get a perfect spot, it is well worth the waiting!

MIRADOURO DE SANTA LUIZA

Almost torn from a painting, this is the most beautiful miradouro of Lisbon! 

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AZULEJO

For people passionate about color and tiles, if you are looking for inspiration or to learn about the history of tiles in Portugal, it is worth walking all the way to the Azulejo Museum .

We really enjoyed the time spent here, and even though the light might not always be the greatest, I’m sure you can work with that. 

The restaurant and coffee place inside the museum is as lovely as the inside garden. 

PENA PALACE

Yes, the next few points and places are not in Lisbon per se. However, Sintra and all the other places are only a short drive away from Lisbon, and most people who travel in the area will include at least one day trip in their itinerary. 

The Pena Palace is the closest thing to a fairytale palace I’ve ever seen! Its location on the top of the hill, all the pretty colorful tiles, the impressive interiors – everything about this places puts it top of any the list!

From any corner you might look at it you will find it easy to discover a photogenic angle. 

QUINTA DA REGALEIRA

A less popular attraction in Sintra, I found Quinta da Regaleira maybe more charming than Pena Palace, if that can be possible. It has a very different architecture, and its gardens hide other impressive photography spots – especially the well you might have seen in many pictures until now. 

AZENHAS DO MAR

We knew nothing about this place and most probably we would have missed it if it wasn’t for our driver and guide. He understood what we were looking for and took us to this less explored beach not far from Sintra. 

As we approached it and saw the beautiful white buildings perched on the top of a hill, the natural pool, and the sandy beach bathed by the ocean’s waves we knew this place was a winner!

CABO DA ROCA

The westernmost point of Europe, this is one popular place but you shouldn’t find it hard to find a tranquil spot. 

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Lisbon Instagram Spots that you have to see – and a map to find them all

Let’s face it, a big part of travel is trying to get those Instagram perfect snaps and  Lisbon  is by far one of the most photogenic places we have visited. With the cobbled backstreets, and graffiti clad walls, there are so many Instagrammable places in Lisbon. We have put together this post to help you find the most photogenic places in Lisbon to really brighten your Instagram feed.

From the colourful backstreets of Alfama, to a former red light district turned hipsters paradise, Lisbon Instagram spots are certainly not hard to come by.

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Before we get to some of the best Lisbon Instagram Spots let’s look at why you should visit Lisbon.  

Lisbon instagram spots – when to visit them, the most instagram worthy places in lisbon, how to get to the lisbon instagram spots, lisbon instagram spots and the best areas to stay, best photo spots in lisbon- a recap.

Lisbon is not only picturesque, but it’s also super laid back and friendly. In the summer months it is the perfect city for Al Fresco dining, wandering around, and of course sipping on some cold drinks. It’s also pretty cheap compared to the likes of Paris or Rome. It’s also a perfect mix of modern and historical, making it a great place to photograph or just explore.

And if you are still on the fence about visiting Lisbon this guide might help.

Lisbon is a really popular place to visit all year round. If you can, we recommend avoiding visiting smack bang in the middle of summer. Temperatures can get well into the 30’s and with all those hills it can be quite exhausting. Summer (August specifically) is also busy because of school holidays, so expect prices for things like accommodation to be slightly higher. Also those famous Lisbon Instagram spots also get pretty crowded so you won’t get the best photos.

We visited Lisbon in October and it was pretty perfect. For starters, the temperatures were mild and ranged from 23-26 degrees Celsius. Lisbon in October is a lot quieter so you won’t have to line up nearly as long as you would a few months earlier.

March-May are also good times to visit due to the milder temperatures, and lower number of tourists. You still get the odd beach day, and can definitely sit outside sipping beers in the sun. So it’s win win.

Winters in Lisbon do get cold, I think a lot of people assume it is a year-round sun destination which it isn’t. It also rains quite a bit, so you aren’t guaranteed sunshine. A lot of the charm of Lisbon is alfresco dining, and exploring the cobbled streets, so with a strong chance of rain winter probably isn’t the best time to visit.

Here are our recommended Lisbon Instagram Spots and maps to help you find them all.

✈ The Pink Street

By far one of the most photogenic places in Lisbon has to be the Pink Street . Located on Rua Nova do Carvalho, at night time this street is one of the hottest areas to go out in Lisbon. By day though, it is one of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon. It will definitely brighten your Instagram feed, and the good news is that it doesn’t get too busy in the day, so you can get pictures without tons of people photobombing you.

Despite it being a top Lisbon Instagram spot, the Pink Street, actually has some pretty seedy origins. Lisbon has a long history of being a port city, and the area was popular with sailors, as it was packed with brothels, gambling dens, and much more debauchery.

To find this one on Google maps make sure you put in it’s proper name Rua Nova do Carvalho.

If you are getting the metro, get off at Cais do Sodré and take the short walk away from the port towards Rua Nova do Carvalho.

✈ Belem Tower

Belem Tower is certainly one of the most obvious choices for the best places to photograph in Lisbon. It is a popular tourist attraction, and the lines to get in can get pretty busy. From the outside though, you can get some really beautiful pictures, especially if you go out of hours when there aren’t crowds of people around.

We unfortunately didn’t have that luxury but even so, the Tower makes for a great picture. Especially if you stand near the wooden decking which leads you to the entrance. This creates the perfect leading line and draws your eye to the beauty that is the Belem Tower.

If you want to go inside the tower and get some of the best shots, we highly recommend booking in advance .

To get here from the centre of Lisbon you will need to hop on tram 15 headed to Algés (Jardim). Get off just after Mosteiro dos Jerónimos – usually 1- 2 stops after.

✈  Alfama District

There are several places in Alfamais one of Lisbon’s best Instagram spots as a whole. It’s a pretty big area though so we will go through a few in a bit more detail.

One thing we recommend though is to just walk around. It is one of the most Instagram worthy places in Lisbon, with its narrow streets, graffiti decorated walls, and incredible views.

You could spend an afternoon here with your camera, just clicking away. Alfama was one of our favourite places to explore for this very reason. It is one of the oldest districts in Lisbon, and one of the most colourful by far in both palette and character.

✈ Lisbon Cathedral

Further into the Alfama district you will find the Lisbon Cathedral. This is one of Lisbon’s most recognised religious buildings. And it is where you can go to get that iconic shot of Tram 28 snaking its way past with the cathedral in the background. When we visited there was cladding on the building next to it, so were were not able to get that perfect shot, but it is still an iconic Lisbon photo, also I should note that the best photo we took was of Tram 12, but you get the point.

✈  Portas Do Sol Viewpoint

The Portas Do Sol Viewpoint is another of the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon. The views from here are incredible, especially around sunset. The atmosphere is also fantastic with buskers and artists trying to attract the attention of the tourists. This is a great place to grab a drink and soak in the atmosphere.

✈ Lisbon Story Arch

Add a pop of colour to your Instagram feed with the Lisbon Story Arch. Located right near a public toilet in Alfama, you will find this colourful tunnel which depicts the history of Lisbon in a series of comical cartoons.

This one can be a bit tricky to find, and if you take the wrong turn you might miss it completely. If you follow the map below, and once you are in the area follow the signs to the public toilet. You will only go a short way down the stairs before you see a small tunnel with comic strips on both sides.

✈ Miradouro de Santa Luzia

This romantic terrace located by the church of Santa Luiza is certainly one of the best photo spots in Lisbon. For starters the gardens surrounding them are beautiful, filled with tiled mosaic walls and bright colourful flowers.

There is also a beautiful look out point here where you can admire those incredible red tiled rooftops whilst listening to buskers perform around you.

This is by far one of the best Lisbon Instagram spots – but also make sure you take some time not only to photograph the area but to sit and enjoy it too.

✈ Memmo Alfama

One of the best places to photograph in Lisbon by far has to be at the Memmo Alfama . This hotel has one of the most impressive rooftop bars and you can get some amazing photos of Lisbon from here. If you time it just right and you are here for sunset, then you can get some truly beautiful pictures. Plus what better way to enjoy the sunset then with a camera in one hand and a cocktail in the other?

✈   Elevador da Gloria

We couldn’t compile a list of the best photo spots in Lisbon without mentioning Elevador da Gloria. The elevador or funicular is located in Santo Antonio and is probably one of the most photographed bits of public transport apart from Tram 28.

What makes this one of the best places to photograph in Lisbon, is the funicular itself is covered in colourful graffiti, and with the background consisting of colourful homes and cobbled streets, you have yourself an Instagram favourite.

✈  Elevador da Bica

Located nearby is the equally beautiful and photogenic Elevador da Bica. Again with the grungy background of graffitied walls and quirky buildings, this makes for the perfect Instagram shot.

✈  Santa Justa Lift

The Santa Justa Lift might be an obvious choice but we certainly wanted to include it on this list. The lift was designed by Raul Mesnier de Ponsard who was actually a student of Gustave Eiffel, who you might know from such designs as the Eiffel Tower!

✈ Praca do Comercio

The Praca do Comercio is the main square in Lisbon and popular with tourists. The square itself is beautiful but if you cross the road to admire the view of the Ponte 25 de Abril, Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge you will find another of the best places to photograph in Lisbon. This is a great place to go at sunrise as you can get some brilliant shots of the bridge with a pink sky in the background.

✈ LX Factory

The LX Factory is pretty much a mecca for hip coffee shops, quirky stores, and some really funky outdoor bars. On top of that it is the perfect Lisbon Instagram spot. The street art is immense and there are so many awesome stores you can go into and take photos of.

✈ Ler Devagar

One of the best stores at the LX Factory has to be Ler Devagar. This is one of the most photogenic bookshops we have ever seen that is perfect for Instagram.

So you might be wondering how to get to all these Instagrammable spots in Lisbon. We recommend purchasing a Viva Viagem card. You can then load the card with a ticket, and you are off. If you go to a subway station you can top up your card with a 24 hour ticket which covers, buses, trains, and trams (including the 28) for a little over 10 Euros per person.

When purchasing your ticket there is an English language option which is handy. You can alternatively buy tickets on board buses, trams, and funiculars in the city, but these are more expensive that if you pay with your you can buy on board tickets in Lisbon buses, trams, funiculars and Santa Lift lift, but they’ll be more expensive than paying with Viva Viagem card. Here is a quick overview on the public transport options.

There are 4 metro lines in Lisbon identifiable by their different colours (Blue, Yellow, Green and Red). The metro is frequent and convenient running between 6.30am and 1am daily.

There are 6 tram lines in Lisbon including the very popular  and totally Instagrammable Tram 28. The trams are operated by Carris and take you across the city. We actually didn’t end up using the trams all that much except to get to Belem and of course to do Tram 28.

We ended up getting the bus quite a bit in Lisbon, as they tend to go to areas not accessible by tram or metro. They operate between 5am to 11pm, and the easiest way to work out where you are going and where to get off is to follow your route on Google Maps.

One thing I should advise though is that buses tend to get really busy. We ended up squished onto quite a few buses with strangers’ elbows in our faces but I guess it is all part of the city break experience.

Funicular & Lift

They may look touristy but the funiculars and the vertical lift in Lisbon are all genuine modes of transport. They are ideal to help you ascend some of Lisbon’s steepest streets.

Public transport is really convenient and easy to use, which makes getting around during your 3 days in Lisbon very easy.

One of the most important things when planning your time in Lisbon is of course working out where to stay. Some of the best places to sleep in Lisbon are in Alfama, Baixa, and Bairro Alto. These are centrally located areas close to a lot of the main tourist sites and Instagrammable spots in Lisbon.

Here is our rundown on each of the neighbourhoods.

This was our absolute favourite part of Lisbon, and in hindsight we would try to stay here if we are lucky enough to return to Lisbon. It’s filled with back alleyways, steep hills, and a ton of character. It’s probably one of the most photogenic parts of Lisbon, and great for a short break. Accommodation options in Alfama tend to be more apartment stays, so if you have your heart set on a hotel this might not be for you. The neighbourhood is really quirky, and there are so many places to eat, drink, and photograph.

Baixa is probably the more touristy part of the city, and is close to a lot of the attractions and main squares. There are a lot of coffee shops, and restaurants, and the atmosphere is fantastic. This is really the heart of Lisbon, and great for people watching, and photographing.

Bairro Alto

The area is close to the city’s two funiculars, and is full of hustle and bustle.  It’s filled cobbled streets, graffiti clad walls, but more importantly a lot of places to eat and drink in the sunshine. It can get a bit boisterous in the evenings, so maybe not the best if you want a quiet night. It’s a great place for couples too, with several rooftop bars in the area, and overall fun vibe. This is another of the best neighbourhoods in Lisbon if you are wanting to be near the top photo spots.

Hopefully this article will help you find the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon. It really is the kind of city that you could spend days photographing and it was hard to narrow down the most Instagram worthy. I guess I should give a shout out to my Instagram and real life husband Dave, for putting up with me shouting at him to look wistfully into the distance while I take his picture. And if you are in Lisbon and you are thinking of doing a day trip, then you should consider visiting Sintra which in itself is one of the most Instagram worthy places we have visited.

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14 Comments

Great pictures. Loved the pink street. Thanks for this detailed post. 🙂

The pink street was so amazing. Thanks for reading.

Lisbon has just skyrocketed to the top of my bucket list! Great snaps!

Aww brilliant! Thanks so much.

Ler Devager looks amazing! Such unique spots, Lisbon looks so colourful and definitely somewhere I’d love to photograph one day!

We were so lucky to have stumbled upon that bookstore! Lisbon is really a photographers dream.

I loveeee all the locations you showed in this article! Lisbon is truly such a beautiful place. You compiled an insightful guide! Thank you

Aww thank you so much!

Sooo pinning this! Need this for my visit to Lisbon 🙂 Need instagrammable guides for everyyyy cityyyy

Thank you! Love a good instagrammable guide myself!

Superb guide guys, I will be in Lisbon soon so it is gonna be handy 🙂

Thank you. Have a great time in Lisbon.

Great post! I’m saving this list for future reference when me and my best friend goes there in a few months. Thanks for sharing.

Oh I hope it helps. It is absolutely beautiful in Lisbon. Hope you have a fantastic time.

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The 15 Best Things to Do in Lisbon

By Chadner Navarro and Alia Akkam

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

Read our complete Lisbon travel guide here .

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

Ajuda National Palace Arrow

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

Tram 28 Arrow

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

LX Factory Arrow

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

Time Out Market Lisboa Arrow

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

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) Arrow

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

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum Arrow

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

Praça do Comércio Arrow

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

We Hate Tourism Tours: Walk in the Real City Arrow

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

São Jorge Castle Arrow

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

Café A Brasileira Arrow

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

Jéronimos Monastery Arrow

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

Clube de Fado Arrow

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

Belém Tower Arrow

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

Pastéis de Belém Arrow

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

Santa Justa Lift Arrow

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

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Lisbon Instagram spots and photography guide: best photo locations and sights

Lisbon is a colourful and vibrant city that is just waiting to fill your Instagram account with glorious images and wonderful memories. This is a young and energetic city, that is proud of its heritage and culture diversity, and will provide the perfect holiday backdrop and inspiration for your posts.

This article will provide a guide to our favourite Instagram photo locations, covering the iconic monuments of the city and the perfect settings for an enduring holiday memory of you and your friends. Related articles: Top 10 Lisbon – Undiscovered Lisbon – 24 hours in Lisbon

Our top Instagram photo locations in Lisbon

Top 10 Instagram sights of Lisbon 1. Torre de Belem 2. LxFactory 3. Praça do Comércio 4. The Oceanário de Lisboa 5. The number 28 tram 6. Rossio plaza 7. The Alfama district 8. Pink Street 9. Timeout food market 10. Sé de Lisboa

Top 10 viewpoints of Lisbon 1. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte 2. Cristo Rei (viewpoint) 3. Castelo de Sao Jorge 4. Portas do Sol 5. Elevador de Santa Justa 6. Miradouro Parque Eduardo VII 7. Miradouro de Santa Catarina (Adamastror) 8. Padrão dos Descobrimentos 9. Roof of the MAAT musuem 10. Jardim de São Pedro de Alcântara

The map below displays the finest locations to capture the beauty of the city. Having so many potential locations we have divided the list into two — the blue set highlights the inspirational and cultural sights of Lisbon while the yellow tags display best viewpoints.

Note: This article only considers Lisbon and does not discuss scenic Sintra, the glorious beaches of Cascais or the pretty walled town of Obidos. For a full guide to the day trips from Lisbon please see this article .

The following section details why each of the monuments or viewpoints has been included in our top Instagram locations of Lisbon, and provides links to further in-depth guides.

The Torre de Belem #torredebelem (no.1 attraction)

The delightful Torre de Belem is the monument of Lisbon. It’s white limestone battlements glistens against the deep blues of the Tejo estuary, and the distinctive architecture makes it perfect for the focus of an image or as a unique backdrop. The little tower is surrounded by a moat, which also means it is surprisingly easy to get a tourist-free image. Instagram tip: The decorative features of the tower are all on the outside, so there is no real need to stand in the long queue for an expensive admission fee. Related article: Torre de Belem guide

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte (no.1 viewpoint)

The Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is the finest viewpoint in Lisbon. From this terrace are majestic views across the Baixa district and out to the Tejo Estuary, while to the south are beautiful views of the castle.

Historically, this secluded location was where young Portuguese lovers would meet for romantic liaisons, and today it is still one of the most romantic settings of Lisbon. Advice: This is the highest viewpoint in Lisbon and is a challenging uphill walk to reach it, unless you hire a tuk-tuk tour or taxi.

Lxfactory #lxfactory (no.2 attraction)

Lisbon is a creative and artisan city, and the Lxfactory is the focal point for this blossoming scene. The once-abandoned factory is now adorned with vivid street art and houses artist studios, co-working offices and a dynamic tech crowd.

Quirkiness and artisan retro emanate through the complex, from the former printing press bookshop to the bohemian antique stalls; Lxfactory will inspire your images and posts.

Cristo Rei (viewpoint) #cristorei (no.2 viewpoint)

The Cristo Rei statue is the prominent monument of Lisbon, standing high on the southern banks of the Tejo Estuary, and captured in a pose of blessing the city. The statue’s viewing terrace offers wonderous waterside views of Lisbon, while the cliffside viewpoint perfect positions the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge in the rear of any image.

Expert insight: The viewing terrace at the top of the Cristo Rei monument offers the better views, but the high guard rails are obtrusive in any photo. Related article: Cristo Rei gudie and travel info

How about a small group tour?

One of the best ways to discover Lisbon and to meet fellow travellers is to join a guided tour. We have worked with Getyourguide.com for the last six years, and some of the best tours of Lisbon include:

The Praça do Comércio #pracadocomercio (no.3 attraction)

The Praça do Comércio is the most magnificent plaza in Lisbon, and always a favourite setting for artistic images and creative posts. The plaza combines a water aspect, three sides of vivid yellow buildings and the triumphant Arco da Rua Augusta. Historically this was where explorers and merchants would trade exotic goods, and today the plaza buzzes with tourism.

Insider tip: Arco da Rua Augusta viewing platform provides a completely different perspective over the plaza.

Castelo de Sao Jorge #castelodesaojorge (no.3 viewpoint)

The strategic positioning of Lisbon castles means that it is both a fascinating tourist attraction and marvelous viewpoint. From the lower terraces, the castle’s defenders could spy across the entire city and out to the ocean, while the main citadel was constructed to withstand the most powerful attacks.

Insight: The surprisingly large castle complex means it is always possible to find a tourist-free section, and there is potential for unique images or settings. Related articles: Lisbon castle guide

The Oceanário de Lisboa #oceanariodelisboa (no.4 attraction)

The Oceanário de Lisboa is a place of calm and tranquillity, with enchanting fish and deadly predators gently circling around the vast tanks. The central tank is memorising, with a floor to ceiling glass wall, and the perfect setting for a silhouette image in front of a shark, ray or shoal of fish.

Insight: don’t miss the adorable sea otters, who when not preening, hold hands, so as not to lose each other when out in the open sea. Official website: https://www.oceanario.pt

Portas do Sol #alfama (no.4 viewpoint)

The Portas do Sol is the classic view of Lisbon, which you saw in a thousand posts before heading to Lisbon. It overlooks the tiled roofs of the Alfama district and out to the Tejo Estuary, and during cruise season, massive cruise liners moor along the riverfront.

Insider tip: There is a viewpoint behind the Igreja de Santa Luzia church, and is less touristy along with having benches, tiled walls and wrought iron-rails, ideal for varied poses.

The number 28 tram #tram28 (no.5 attraction)

The number 28 tram is the quaint yellow tram that rattles and screeches through the narrow streets of the historic section of the city. In any other city, these 1930s trams would be an exhibit in a museum, but in Lisbon they are key to the public transport.

Stepping inside is stepping back in time, there are polished wooden benches, a stop bell and antiquated brass dials. The number 28 tram is not only a wonderful photo opportunity but a piece of Lisbon’s heritage.

Instagram tip: The best location to photograph the 28 tram is outside the Se cathedral, while passing through the Portas Do Sol plaza, or waiting in from of the Basílica da Estrela. Related articles: Guide to number 28 tram

Elevador de Santa Justa #elevadordesantajusta (no.5 viewpoint)

The Elevador de Santa Justa ascends one of the steepest hills in Lisbon, and was constructed in an age when machines had character and iron was used as an art form. At the top of the structure is a viewing terrace which once housed the steam engine, and from here are panoramic views over the Baixa district. Our opinion: The Elevador de Santa Justa viewing terrace is one of the most romantic locations in the early evening.

Rossio #rossio (no.6 attraction)

Rossio plaza is the charismatic heart of the city, and a popular location to embrace the vibe of the city. There are cooling fountains, cobbled streets and extravagant 18th-century architecture. The plaza is always bustling and a hive of activity, and a great setting to capture city life in your images and posts.

Miradouro Parque Eduardo VII (no.6 viewpoint)

The Miradouro Parque Eduardo VII is positioned at the top of the Eduardo VII park, and looks down the greenway into the heart of the city.

Alfama district #alfama (no.7 attraction)

Alfama is the oldest district of Lisbon and is a delightful maze of narrow streets, which climb the steep hill up to the castle. Concealed within the warren of streets chances to experience authentic Lisbon, from the family-run restaurants, the independent shops, or the houses which have been in the same families for generations.

It is a joy to simply get lost in Alfama and simply stumble upon a hidden gem, of a plaza, restaurant or cheerful local. Related articles: Alfama guide

Miradouro de Santa Catarina (Adamastror) (no.7 viewpoint)

Inside knowledge: At the viewpoint is the statue of the Adamastror, which was the personified monster which terrorised sailors, when rounding the Cape of Good Hope

Pink Street #pinkstreet (no.8 attraction)

Pink Street is the centre for Lisbon’s buzzing nightlife, and is where you will eventually end up when out, out. Late-night Pink Street post and stories are often influenced by inebriation and are rarely coherent, but this is the fun of being on holiday…

Timeout food market #timeoutlisbon (no.9 attraction)

The Timeout food market gathers together menus and dishes prepared by some of the best chiefs of Portugal, in a lively and social setting. The food is excellent and the atmosphere is even better; this is the ideal location for lunch and to experiment with Portuguese food.

If you are after food posts and images, this is the place to head to for beautifully presented dishes.

Se cathedral (no.10 attraction)

The Sé de Lisboa is the ancient gothic cathedral and one of the most important historic monuments of the city.

Jardim de São Pedro de Alcântara (no.10 viewpoint)

The Jardim de São Pedro de Alcântara

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A complete list of all of our Lisbon articles

Getting started

• Lisbon introduction
• How long in Lisbon?
• Lisbon for seniors
• Where to stay in Lisbon?
• Cost to visit Lisbon
• Lisbon's best museums
• Lisbon for a rainy day
• Lisbon at Christmas
• Is Lisbon walkable
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• Portuguese National Anthem

Lisbon's districts

• Parque Nações
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Sightseeing

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

Transport guides

Lisbon airport Airport to city centre Terminal 2 Metro guide Cruise ship guide Ferry guide To Christo Rei Statue Lisbon to Porto

Itineraries

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Lisbon's stations

• Orient train station
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• Lisbon or Barcelona
• Marmaris in May

The Lisbon region

Day trips from Lisbon

• Sintra introduction
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• Day trip to Sintra
• Lisbon to Sintra
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• Sintra tourist bus 434
• Palacio da Pena
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• Cascais introduction
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• Lisbon to Evora
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• Cabo Espichel
• Obidos Introduction
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• Obidos day trip
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Central Portugal

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Portugal Guides

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North Portugal

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South Portugal

• Algarve introduction
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The best guide to Lisbon

37 Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon (+Sintra!) (2024)

Looking for the most instagrammable places in lisbon.

Look no further!

Lisbon, the vibrant and colorful capital of Portugal, is a destination that should be on every Instagrammer’s bucket list. Filled with vibrant old-world charm and dreamy pastels, Lisbon is a photographer’s dream come true! I couldn’t help but take tons of photos during recent Lisbon solo female travel . With beautiful architecture, unique old buildings, and dozens of incredible views, this city is the perfect place for a getaway full of aesthetic delights.

That’s why I’ve put together this guide to the most Instagram-worthy places in Lisbon, based on my time photographing the city and gathering tips from locals. Read on for photography tips and a list of the best Instagram spots in Lisbon!

Table of Contents

How to Get the Most Instagrammable Photos of Lisbon

As an experienced photographer and social media professional, I want to start this Lisbon Instagram guide with a few tips that will help you get the best photos in the easiest way possible! Plan for lighting: Lisbon is known for its beautiful golden light during sunrise and sunset. Plan your shoots during these times for warm, atmospheric lighting. In order to get the best photos possible, look up sunrise and sunset times in advance. Get up early: If you want to shoot the most Instagram-worthy places in Lisbon without the crowds, you’ll have to get up and at ‘em, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. This can be hard to do so you could always set aside one early morning and plan to hit a number of spots located close together. Use different angles: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different perspectives and angles. Capture wide-angle shots to showcase the city’s grandeur, and try getting close-ups of unique architectural details or street scenes.

Pay attention to details: Unique Instagram spots in Lisbon may sneak up on you! This city is full of intricate details and colorful facades. Look out for decorative tiles (azulejos ), traditional balconies, and street art that can make your photos more visually appealing. Experiment with long exposures: If you want to capture dynamic and dreamy photos, try using long exposures, especially during sunset or at night. This technique can create stunning light trails from the city’s trams or smooth out the movement of the Tagus River. It can also help you stand out as the focal point, blurring any crowds around you. Be respectful of locals: While capturing photos, be mindful of the local residents and their privacy. Avoid intruding or causing inconvenience to people while taking pictures, especially in residential areas. Get photo inspiration from Instagram: Search for your favorite Lisbon Instagram spots on the app and browse photos to get inspiration.

Wear white or another soft color: I’m a huge fan of white and black clothing, especially when I’m shooting in colorful locations. I prefer for my clothing to complement its surroundings.

How to Get Professional Photos

If you really want to up your Instagram game, book time with a professional photographer! This photography tour is a super affordable way to get a shareable souvenir that you’ll get to keep forever.

The Most Instagrammable Lisbon Spots

In Lisbon, vibrant culture, historic charm, and picturesque landscapes come together to create the ultimate eye candy. This place is Instagram girly heaven.

Not only is a photo shoot one of the best things to do in Lisbon alone , it also ensures you have a travel keepsake you can cherish for years to come!

So, fix your hair and grab your camera, it’s time to discover the best Instagram spots in Lisbon!

1. Lisbon Miradouros

Lisbon’s miradouros , or viewpoints, have breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The terracotta rooftops, sparkling Tagus River, and iconic landmarks are one of the best places to capture the perfect view of Lisbon. Prioritize the miradouros below for the best photos.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia : The most popular viewpoint with a gorgeous terrace overlooking the river past Alfama’s colorful buildings. The blooming bougainvillea and blue and white azulejo tiles scream charm and romance.

Miradouro da Graça: Situated on top of the Graça neighborhood, this viewpoint treats you to panoramic vistas of Lisbon’s rooftops, the São Jorge Castle, and the river. It’s perfect for capturing stunning photos of the city’s beauty.

Miradouro das Portas do Sol: One of my favorite Lisbon Instagram spots, this viewpoint offers breathtaking views of Lisbon’s winding streets and the dome of the Lisbon Cathedral, providing a perfect backdrop for capturing the essence of the city’s charming old-world charm.

2. Bairro Alto

Known for its vibrant nightlife and bohemian atmosphere, Bairro Alto offers a lively backdrop for your photos. Capture the colorful street art, traditional Fado music venues, and bustling streets.

Lisbon’s downtown district, the Baixa neighborhood is characterized by grand squares, wide boulevards, and elegant neoclassical architecture. This neighborhood is full of amazing Lisbon Instagram spots!

You’ll want to head straight to Praça do Comércio with its yellow buildings and waterfront location where you’ll find a picturesque fusion of history and modernity in the heart of the city. Center yourself between the arches and columns beneath the walkways letting its leading lines craft the perfect focus.

Fun Fact: Did you know baixa means downtown in Portuguese? That’s right! That’s why there are other Portuguese cities like Porto have a baixa of their own. That city center, in particular, also happens to be one of the most Instagrammable places in Porto!

4. Rua Augusta Arch

Arco da Rua Augusta is an iconic landmark at Commerce Square. With its grand structure and intricate details, this massive arch is the perfect photo spot. During busy times, use it as a focal point to capture Lisbon’s vibrant, bustling energy.

5. Santa Justa Lift

The Santa Justa Lift, also known as Elevador de Santa Justa , is a stunning iron elevator that connects Baixa to Bairro Alto. This historic lift offers numerous opportunities at different angles and levels. Capture the beautiful ironwork towering above the surrounding cityscape or head to the top for a stellar view.

Psst: For more incredible photo spots, be sure to check out this guide to Porto viewpoints . If you want to ensure the best photography weather, take a look at my guide to the best time to visit Portugal for a look at each of the different seasons.

6. Carmo Convent

The Carmo Convent is a captivating architectural ruin in Lisbon that dates back to the 14th century. With its roofless nave and towering Gothic arches, this spot is an incredible backdrop with fascinating contrast between the majestic stone structure and the clear blue sky.

The historic Alfama district is a maze of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and charming alleyways. Its decorative tiles, hanging laundry, and winding cobblestone streets give off a timeless beauty that makes this neighborhood one of the most Instagram-worthy places in Lisbon.

Psst: The photo shoots don’t have to stop here! A few days of Algarve solo travel will give you plenty more opportunities to snap picture-perfect photos of Portugal’s stunning southern coast.

8. São Jorge Castle

Perched atop one of Lisbon’s seven hills, São Jorge Castle offers magnificent panoramic views of the city. Capture the ancient fortress walls, medieval towers, and the river beyond the sweeping vistas of Lisbon’s rooftops.

9. Casa do Alentejo

Casa do Alentejo is a hidden gem that showcases the cultural heritage of the Alentejo region. Capture the intricate Moorish-inspired architecture, colorful tiles, and ornate details of this former palace, which now serves as a cultural center, providing a unique and visually captivating setting for your photographs.

PS: This Iberian Peninsula is teeming with gorgeous Moorish architecture- you just have to know where to look! I was able to experience the beauty of the legendary Royal Alcazar on a Seville solo travel journey, and I highly recommend it if you’re a fan of this style!

10. Lisbon Cathedral

The Sé de Lisboa is the oldest church in the city. Its Romanesque architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and tranquil interior make it one of the most Instagram worthy places in Lisbon. After you get your photos, take a break to appreciate the history and spirituality of the church and experience a moment of serenity amidst the bustling city.

PS: If you enjoy Lisbon’s cathedral, make sure you head on a solo trip to Porto to check out the incredible baroque churches covered in blue and white azulejos – some with more than 16,000 tiles covering their facades!

BEST LISBON ACTIVITY

One of the best things to do in Lisbon is to book a food tour ! Not only do you get to taste the best products curated by knowledgeable locals, it’s also a fun way to learn about Lisbon’s history and meet fellow travelers.

After all, could there be a better way to bond than over wine or mouthwatering petiscos ?! This is my favorite food tour , because you get to try everything from traditional Portuguese cuisine to inventive modern dishes. I highly recommend the drinks upgrade if you want to try the country’s famous port wine!

11. Church of Santa Luzia

The Church of Santa Luzia in the Alfama neighborhood offers a breathtaking view of Lisbon and the Tagus River. Photograph the beautiful azulejo panels depicting historical scenes, the Baroque-style interior, and the magnificent balcony where you can frame the cityscape, creating a stunning visual contrast between architectural splendor and natural beauty.

Known for its iconic narrow street, Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo, this charming neighborhood is filled with Lisbon Instagram spots that will get your creative juices flowing. Capture the traditional yellow trams navigating the steep incline, vibrant street art, and the vibrant atmosphere of cafes and shops that line the street, showcasing the vibrant energy and unique character of Lisbon.

13. Bica Elevator

The Bica Elevator, or Ascensor da Bica , is a historic yellow tram that connects the Bairro Alto and Baixa districts. It’s easy to see why this spot is one of the most instagrammable places in Lisbon! Capture the vintage charm of the yellow tram as it ascends or descends the picturesque street, framed by colorful buildings, showcasing the unique transportation system and architectural beauty of Lisbon.

WHERE TO PHOTOGRAPH TRAM 28

Let’s face it, the iconic yellow tram has become the ultimate visual symbol of Lisbon! Tram 28 is known as the best route that offers a self-guided tour through the city.

Here are a few of the best tram photo spots in Lisbon:

• Bairro Alto: This neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife, but during the day it offers a great view of tram 28 winding through steep and narrow streets. Head to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint for an elevated perspective.
• Alfama: The oldest neighborhood in Lisbon is also home to the famous tram 28. Catch a ride on this tram and enjoy the views of winding streets, colorful houses, and historic buildings.
• Baixa: This downtown area is where you’ll find the iconic yellow trams passing through Rua da Conceição. Make sure to get off at Praça do Comércio for a great photo spot with the Arco da Rua Augusta in the background.
• Praça dos Restauradores: Located at the bottom of Avenida da Liberdade, this square is a popular starting point for tram 28. The view of the trams passing by and the colorful buildings surrounding the square make it a prime location for photos.
• Miradouro de Santa Luzia: For a more intimate and picturesque view of Lisbon’s trams, head to this viewpoint in the Alfama neighborhood. You’ll have a stunning backdrop of the Tagus River and white-washed houses with tram 28 passing by.

Psst: Speaking of Instagrammable things… have you been wondering is Aveiro worth visiting ? This coastal town is home to the most adorable moliceiro boats, lovely canals, and the famous striped beach houses of Costa Nova! A day trip here is basically picture-perfect.

14. Hello Kristoff

Hello Kristoff in Bica is worth a visit for more than its coffee and yummy food. This Instagrammable cafe is darling with a pink exterior and magazines lining the walls on wooden shelves. This place is usually packed so try to get early if you want a particular photo.

15. Dear Breakfast (Bica)

Not only does Bica’s Dear Breakfast have some stellar brunch options, it’s also one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Lisbon! Deep blue velvet seats pop against the all-white walls and counters of this chic restaurant. Make sure to grab a picture with one of its asymmetrical archways!

16. Green Street

Rua Silva, also known as Green Street, is a charming street in Lisbon decked out with lush greenery and trees. The natural beauty of the plants and the vibrant colors of the surrounding buildings are the perfect backdrops for a shot of you beneath the sign.

PHOTO SPOTS IN PORTUGAL

It’s no secret that the vibrant and colorful country of Portugal is a photographer’s dream come true! Here are some of the most Instagrammable places in Portugal to add to your list:

• Algarve: You could snap photos of the Algarve’s Ponta da Piedade for hours. Plus, it makes an easy day trip from Faro .
• Porto: The Dom Luis I Bridge offers one of the best views in Porto with a mesmerizing sunset.
• Madeira: The traditional Santana houses and the mist-shrouded Fanal Forest in Madeira were made to be photographed!

17. Pink Street

You’ll recognize Rua Nova do Carvalho , known as the famous pink street by its distinctive pink pavement and rainbow umbrellas. Who would have thought a former red light district would become one of today’s most Instagrammable places in Lisbon? Grab shots beneath the umbrellas and center yourself between the arch of the yellow bridge, using the pink path to draw eyes straight to you.

Psst: Loving all of Lisbon’s gorgeous colors? Pair your trip with Madeira solo travel to experience even more vibrant natural beauty at the island’s jaw-dropping botanical gardens. Visit in the spring to see the purple jacaranda trees in full bloom!

Belém is a historical district filled with the best things to see in Lisbon. The jaw-dropping monuments and beautiful riverfront promenade are important pieces of Lisbon’s history. The Lisbon photo spots in this district are some of the most historic, offering a fascinating look at Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

19. Jerónimos Monastery

Jerónimos Monastery is an architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Belém. Snap a picture of its intricately detailed facade before heading to the stunning cloisters where you’ll have tons of opportunities to use the archways to frame your shots.

20. Belem Tower

Belém Tower , also known as Torre de Belém , is an iconic symbol of Lisbon’s history of maritime exploration. Grab a photo on the walkway, the beach or from the roof of this stunning example of Manueline architecture.

21. Tagus River Promenade

On your way to the Belem Tower, stop at the Tagus River Promenadeto to take advantage of the striking backdrop. Here, the Tagus River and 25 de Abril Bridge are on full display. This massive red structure is often compared to another Instagram hotspot: San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.

22. Monument to the Discoveries

Monument to the Discoveries, or Padrão dos Descobrimentos , is a magnificent tribute to the Age of Discoveries. Capture the impressive stone sculpture depicting Portuguese explorers rising up against the blue sky.

23. Embaixada

Principe Real’s Embaixada is a shopping mall housed in a beautiful 19th-century palace. There’s an inner courtyard where you can grab something to eat, but the real draw here is the staircase just beyond the entrance filled with gorgeous artwork. Snap a dreamy photo and get ready to go viral.

24. LX Factory

LX Factory is a vibrant creative hub located in a refurbished industrial complex in Alcântara. Lisbon’s creative community has created an eclectic space full of great visuals to photograph. You’ll want to pose against the graffiti-filled interiors as well as the ivy-covered buildings outside.

25. Ler Devagar

Ler Devagar is a famous bookstore in LX Factory with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a bicycle suspended from the ceiling. Have your photographer (or a nice stranger if you’re traveling to Lisbon solo) capture you on the top level for a charming and whimsical shot.

26. Graffiti Stairs

Of all my favorite Lisbon photo spots, this one is the most off-the-beaten-path. Head to Escadinhas de São Cristóvão, a graffiti-covered staircase in the Mouraria neighborhood to pose against the colorful backdrop that showcases some of Lisbon’s coolest street art.

27. Rooftop Bar

Head to a rooftop bar like Park Bar or the Hotel Tivoli rooftop for stunning panoramic views of the city, Enjoy a cocktail while you capture the beautiful architecture, colorful streets, and the Tagus River. Cheers!

Bonus: Sintra Instagram Spots (Lisbon Day Trip)

Even though these Instagram spots aren’t technically in Lisbon, I had to include Sintra’s stunningly photogenic castles. A true fairytale town nestled in the hills just 30 minutes from Lisbon, here you’ll find enchanting palaces with lush gardens and amazing views. Plus, the westernmost point of continental Europe!

Most Instagrammable Hotel in Sintra

Is one day in Sintra not enough for you? If you want to take your time exploring the exotic palaces and beautiful beaches in Cascais , I’ve got the perfect place for you to stay!

Tivoli Palácio de Seteais is a magnificent 5-star hotel included in the UNESCO Cultural Landscape of the Sintra World Heritage Site, the building is adorned with beautiful paintings, tapestries, and frescoes that exude romantic ambiance

A truly lavish hotel, you can enjoy a picture-perfect view of Pena Palace from your room. The staff can arrange your Sintra Palace visits, and even book you a private jet! A totally normal amenity for any hotel, of course.

Check Prices & Availability!

28. Pena Palace

Pena Palace is a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vibrant colors and eclectic style. The unique turrets, intricate tilework, and stunning panoramic views from its hilltop location provide dozens of magical opportunities.

29. Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira is a mystical estate with ornate gardens, underground tunnels, and a Gothic-inspired palace. Make sure you check out the enchanting Initiation Well and hidden grottoes.

30. Monserrate Palace

Once the summer resort for Portuguese royalty, Monserrate is a breathtaking 19th-century palace, known for its stunning blend of Gothic, Moorish, and Indian styles. Start with the intricate details of the palace’s exterior, before wandering among exotic plants of the beautifully landscaped gardens with enchanting paths that lead to hidden corners.

31. The Moorish Castle

Castelo dos Mouros is a medieval fortress perched on a hilltop overlooking Sintra. It contains ancient stone walls and an alluring blend of medieval and Islamic architectural elements. Plus, there’s a stellar panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding countryside.

PS: If regal photography is your thing, head to Andalusia where you’ll find some of the most beautiful palaces in Spain ! The Royal Alcazar is by far one of the most instagrammable places in Seville !

32. Cabo do Roca

Cabo do Roca is the westernmost point of continental Europe and offers dramatic cliffs and breathtaking coastal views. Don’t skip the iconic lighthouse perched amidst the rugged cliffs with sweeping vistas of the Atlantic Ocean.

Psst: Not too far from Cabo da Roca and the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, you’ll find a charming white-washed surf town with epic beaches and tons of gorgeous viewpoints. Trust me, you won’t want to miss all the great things to do in Ericeira . It’s an easy day trip from Lisbon!

Map of Lisbon Instagram Spots

To help you navigate, I’ve put together a map with the exact locations of all the most Instagrammable places in Lisbon! Be sure to save it to your Google Maps so you can start snapping away once you arrive.

7 Most Instagrammable Restaurants in Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, is not only renowned for its rich history and warm hospitality but also its aesthetically pleasing culinary scene. Let’s explore a few of the most Instagrammable restaurants with stunning interiors and photogenic plates.

Timeout Market

Timeout Market, a foodie’s paradise nestled in the heart of Lisbon, is best known for gathering together the city’s finest culinary offerings under one roof, and its vibrant and bustling atmosphere, filled with colorful food stalls and an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary decor, makes for a remarkably photogenic backdrop.

A Cevecheria

A Cevecheria is a charismatic seafood restaurant in Lisbon famed for its diverse ceviche dishes and its Instagram-worthy feature – a giant, artistic white octopus sculpture stretching across its ceiling.

Sky Bar, perched atop the luxurious Tivoli Hotel, presents panoramic views of Lisbon’s twinkling skyline — a dazzling spectacle that is especially photogenic at sunset.

Amélia Lisboa

Amélia Lisboa, an elegant café in Lisbon’s charming Campo de Ourique district, is widely celebrated for its bright and airy minimalist interior, punctuated by lush green plants and pastel accents, which serve as the perfect backdrop for a photogenic brunch.

Nicolau Lisboa

Nicolau Lisboa, a retro-chic café in the bustling Baixa district, is renowned for its playful pink neon sign and trendy décor, which amplify the photogenic appeal of its mouth-watering breakfast bowls and pastries.

Fábrica da Nata

Fábrica da Nata, an iconic pastry shop in Lisbon, is acclaimed for its delectable ‘Pastéis de Nata’ (Portuguese custard tarts), and its vintage tiled interior and the sight of freshly baked tarts coming out of the oven make for a truly photogenic gastronomic experience.

Palácio Chiado

Palácio Chiado, a majestic 18th-century palace transformed into an elegant food court in Lisbon, is known for its grand interiors featuring ornate frescoes and lavish chandeliers, offering a regal and highly photogenic dining setting.

Ponto Final

Ponto Final is an idyllic waterfront dining establishment located in Lisbon’s Almada district, with its brightly colored tables directly overlooking the Tagus River and the Lisbon skyline, delivering an unarguably photogenic experience.

How to Get to Lisbon’s Best Photo Spots

Lisbon is an easy city to navigate with reliable public transportation. However, you should be aware that it’s full of hills and can get quite hot in the summer so plan accordingly! I don’t recommend renting a car in Lisbon. The narrow alleyways are stressful for locals to navigate, much less tourists! For example, when I took an Uber from the train station to my hostel, the driver got a flat tire and held up traffic on a busy one-way street. Public transportation will get you everywhere you want to go at an affordable price. Get more information on how to navigate Lisbon’s public transportation from this post.

Where to Stay: Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon

If a visually captivating accommodation is your priority, then, well, same! I demand that my hostel or hotel provides yet another picturesque backdrop to capture the magic of each trip. Lucky for you, I’ve listed my top selections after much careful research to identify hostels and hotels that can go head-to-head with any of the best Instagram spots in Lisbon. Whether you spend 4 days in Lisbon or four weeks, these spots will be your colorful, creative home away from home.

PS: Travelling solo? Check out all the best hotels in Lisbon for solo travelers !

Selina Secret Garden

Selina is a boutique hostel tucked away in the heart of Lisbon with a hidden rooftop terrace, lush greenery, and a vibrant ambiance. You’ll be dazzled by its charming outdoor seating areas, colorful murals, and perfect location in colorful Bica. Private rooms start at $175 per night and dorms start at $50.

The Independente

A stylish hotel located in a beautifully restored 19th-century palace> Say less, I’m already booking. With elegant interiors, ornate details, and panoramic views from the rooftop terrace, this hotel provides endless photogenic opportunities. Private rooms start at $25 per night and dorms start at $120.

Lisbon Art Stay

Lisbon Art Stay is a boutique hotel in Baixa-Chiado that seamlessly blends art, design, and hospitality. Its photogenic properties include uniquely decorated rooms, modern art installations, and a super chic restaurant, bar, and speakeasy. This place is totally unique! Rooms start at $225 per night.

Check Prices & Availability !

Lisbon Instagram Captions

Pair your beautiful shots of Lisbon with the perfect Instagram caption to immortalize your memories.

Use a quote, a pun or try out a few words in Portuguese with these cute post captions:

• Quote: “Oh salty sea, how much of your salt is tears from Portugal?”  – Fernando Pessoa
• Funny: Taking life one pastel de nata at a time.
• Funny: I’m in a good place right now. Not emotionally, I’m just in Lisbon.
• Pun: Lisbon is tram-endous.
• Pun: There’s nata chance I’ll forget about this day in Lisbon.
• Portuguese: Eu te amo, Lisboa.

What is the most photgraphed and Instagrammable street in Lisbon?

While there are many picturesque streets in Lisbon, one in particular stands out as the most photographed and Instagrammable: Rua Nova do Carvalho, also known as “Pink Street.” For a hidden gem, check out Green Street in Bica.

RELATED POSTS:

• 10 Best Places to Stay in Lisbon for Solo Travelers
• 35+ Things to Do Alone in Lisbon as a Solo Traveler
• The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide to Lisbon, Portugal
• Lisbon Itinerary: 4 Dreamy Days in the City of 7 Hills

LISBON DAY TRIPS:

• 23+ Outstanding Things to Do in Obidos
• 17 Best Beaches in Cascais Portugal
• 25+ Epic Things to Do in Ericeira

PORTUGAL SOLO TRAVEL:

• Portugal Solo Travel: 21 Best Places for a Solo Trip
• The Perfect Solo Travel Guide to Porto
• The Ultimate Algarve Solo Travel Guide
• Madeira Solo Travel: A Magical Solo Trip Guide
• Azores Solo Travel: An Epic Adventure Guide

MORE PORTUGAL TRAVEL GUIDES

• The Best Time to Visit Portugal: Season Guide
• Portugal in Winter: Things to Do in December, January, & February
• Is Aveiro Worth Visiting?
• 16 Phenomenal Port Wineries in Porto
• Porto Viewpoints: 11 Mesmerizing Miradouro Views
• 7 Absolutely Darling Douro Valley Wineries
• 15 Fabulous Day Trips from Faro, Portugal
• Santana Madeira Houses: Traditional Island Homes
• Fanal Forest, Madeira: Tour the Mysterious Woods

3 thoughts on “37 Most Instagrammable Places in Lisbon (+Sintra!) (2024)”

We have been to Lisbon many times. But this post still showed me many new instagrammable spots in Lisbon. Definitely have a few new miradours to check out. And I found a new coffee spot to try out. Good tip about getting up early before the crowds are out. And the cruise ships disembark!

Your pictures are so good! I’m definitely going to save this guide for when I visit Lisbon later this year 🙂

I really wonder why we skipped Lisbon, drove right through. You photos sure make me wish I stopped, and I love that you included the map.

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Travelling Without a Passport

The 10 Best Instagram Accounts to Discover Portugal

Let’s face it, Portugal is absolutely amazing. From the cobblestone streets and pastel-coloured buildings of Lisbon to the beaches of the Algarve that will quite literally take your breath away, you’ll be wishing you never have to go back home. There is no denying that Portugal deserves to be at the top of any and all must-visit lists. Because we love Portugal and we know that you will too, we curated a list of our favourite Instagram accounts to inspire you to learn Portuguese and book a one-way flight ASAP. If you’re ready to discover one of Europe’s most underrated countries, read on.  

Travel to: Portugal

Visit Porto and North

If you’re looking for Porto inspiration, look no further. Get inspired by the Douro River, the equally awe-inspiring Douro Valley and of course, aged-to-perfection port wines in the region that gave Portugal its name with Visit Porto and North.

View this post on Instagram Speechless. Ph @girlgoneabroad #visitportoandnorth #lamego #visitportugal #viseu #nature #green #church #sun #wonderlustportugal #super_portugal #portugal_places #loves_portugal #turismoportoenorte #ig_portugal #topportugalphoto #travelgram #travelblogger #blogger #instatravel #instacity #citybreak #touring #tourist #travel #porto_ig #portolovers A post shared by Visit Porto and North (@visitportoandnorth) on Jun 27, 2018 at 1:07pm PDT

If we had to pick one thing that Portugal is best known for, it would have to be its jaw-dropping, colourful architecture. Mastering urban design is no easy feat, and neither is capturing it, which is why @voodoolx is a must follow. José Miguel, the designer behind the account, is a Portuguese native who will single-handedly inspire you to visit his homeland.

View this post on Instagram my umbrella day . #samsungS9 #galaxyexplorers . A post shared by Miguel (@voodoolx) on Apr 11, 2018 at 11:07am PDT

See Also: Why You Need to Visit Portugal Right Now

For inspiring views of Lisbon, check out @Tozzzze. The account showcases and photographs many of the spots that make Lisbon a crowd favourite and so many more that you may not have ever known. @Tozzzze makes falling in love with Portugal easy.

View this post on Instagram Amarelou, então vai ter de comprar / Yellow, I love you, won't you tell me your price? A post shared by António Fonseca (@tozzzze) on Aug 5, 2018 at 4:48am PDT

Diogo Oliveira

Stunning photos take on a whole new meaning with @_diogooliveira_. This Porto native inspires his followers through his incredible photography and captivating images. See Porto and beyond from a whole new perspective and get ready to take your love for Portugal one step further. All you have to do is hit that follow button.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bms8HCCB-Mb/?hl=en&taken-by=_diogooliveira_

BloodRedHeart

If you’re hoping to brighten up your feed with everything from colourful azulejos to breathtaking cityscapes and more, Ana from BloodRedHeart is the account to follow. Very few accounts make me want to sit and scroll for hours, but this is definitely one. With a beautifully curated feed, @_bloodredheart_ is a must-follow for Portugal-lovers and art lovers alike.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BkDI1FHH3zL/?hl=en&taken-by=_bloodredheart_

Lisbon-born art director and photographer Hugo Suissas takes his love for his city (and country) and posts it on his Instagram account, daring you to be uninspired. Showcasing everything from the best places to eat, drink, shop, and more through his lens, @Suissas’ feed makes any traveller wish they had booked a tour yesterday.

View this post on Instagram Longboard Surf. #instiesgerador #fujifilmxpt #portugaldenorteasul #vsco #vscocam #vscogood #vscovisuals #vscosociety #vscotravels #vscoaward #vsco_portugal #igerslx #p3top #igmasters #igcreative #igersportugal #photooftheday #likesmagazine #nowporto #toplisbonphoto #creative #fubiz #huntgram #igers #Instagram #Iamatraveler #passionpassport #traveller #surf #longboard A post shared by Hugo Suíssas (@suissas) on Sep 1, 2017 at 3:45am PDT

See Also: How to Spend Two Weeks in Portugal for Every Budget

You can’t go wrong following @LisboaCool. As the handle suggests, the sole purpose of this account is to highlight all of the best bits and pieces of Lisbon. Featuring photos from native-born Lisbonites, expats and visitors, @LisboaCool brings you all of the top spots to visit, the best food to eat, the best vantage points to capture that perfect shot, and so much more.

View this post on Instagram 💛💛 #LisboaCool [📷: @worlddreamingblog] A post shared by Lisboa Cool (@lisboacool) on Aug 30, 2018 at 1:44am PDT

Wonderlust.Portugal

When it comes to accounts that induce wanderlust, @wonderlust.portugal takes the cake. Whether you’re planning a trip to Portugal or you’re simply looking to spice up your feed with expertly-shot images, do yourself a favour and follow this account. From Cabo da Roca to Sintra, Porto to the Algarve and everything in between, you’ll be hard pressed to find any uninspiring photos on Wonderlust.Portugal. So what are you waiting for, press follow!

View this post on Instagram The Portuguese Venice 💛 . Thanks to @giovannitosca. This photo is fantastic! Do you like listening to music whilst exploring new places? We've made it easy for you to get your hit 🎶 Follow »Wonderlust« on Spotify to enjoy our latest playlists. #wonderlustmagazine #portugaltodo #visitportugal #theglobewanderer #passionpassport #seeportugal #onlyportugal #portugalblogger #roamtheplanet #wonderlust #igersportugal #wonderlustportugal #portugal #aveiro #igersaveiro A post shared by The best of Portugal daily (@wonderlust.portugal) on Sep 13, 2018 at 1:10am PDT

HeyAndieHey

For an insiders look at all things Portugal, you need to add @heyandiehey to your followers’ list. Andreia, a self-proclaimed “storyteller and coffee enthusiast” shows you what life in Lisbon is really like. Seamless ly capturing everything from azulejo-covered buildings to the tastiest must-eat treats in Portugal. Check out @heyandiehey and your feed will thank you, trust us.

View this post on Instagram Yes, this is Lisbon ✨ #heyandieheylisbon A post shared by Andreia Lopes Costa (@heyandiehey) on Jul 11, 2018 at 5:53am PDT

VisitPortugal

When talking about Instagram and Portugal, we can’t forget to mention @VisitPortugal, the official Instagram account of Portugal. With over 340,000 followers, and inspiring photos re-posted every day, @VisitPortugal is an absolute must follow. Get your Portugal to fix whenever you need it by hitting that follow button.

View this post on Instagram Coimbra is a playground for history lovers. This church is a National Monument and just one of the impressive historic attractions you can see in the "City of Students". [Photo: @daniloluv] #CantSkipPortugal #VisitPortugal #Portugal #Coimbra A post shared by Visit Portugal (@visitportugal) on Sep 14, 2018 at 2:15am PDT

The most Insta-worthy places in Portugal

If you’re ready to take inspiration from these gorgeous accounts and snap a few pictures of Portugal for yourself, you’ll have to start by picking some spots to snap the perfect picture for your own Instagram! Here are a few of our favourite spots, in our favourite parts of Portugal.

• The Alfama District:  Lisbon’s oldest district is home to charming cobbled streets and traditional colourful homes.
• The Fado Graffiti Wall:  if street art is your thing, this wall in Escadinhas de São Cristóvão is the result of several artists’ collaboration, and it’s perfect for those artsy-cool shots.
• LX Factory:  this former industrial region’s factories have been repurposed into one of the coolest places in Lisbon. From bookstores to restaurants to art exhibitions, LX Factory is home to countless Instagram-worthy spots.

View this post on Instagram Taubenschlag (Teil 2)… 🕊 #Spottherealone #TaubenscheissennichtnuraufsDach #LXfactory #LisboaStreetArt #LisbonUrbanArt #LisboART #IgersLisboa #Lisbonita #Lisbonforever #Lisboalovers #Portugal🇵🇹 A post shared by Mart (@maui_martini) on Sep 5, 2018 at 1:30am PDT

• Teleférico de Gaia:  the best views of Porto can be found above the city itself! For 9 euros, this five-minute cable car trip takes you 300 metres above the city and allows you to see the whole thing in all its glory.
• Torel Avantgarde:  this hotel is one of the most photographed places in all of Portugal; or at least, one room is! On your way to the hotel bar, you’ll be transported to a magical “flower corridor,” where multicoloured blooms hang from the walls and ceiling.
• Joana Vasconcelos’ Azulejo Panel:  created by contemporary artist Joana Vasconcelos, this giant mural is 20 metres wide and painted in colours so vibrant, it’s practically  begging  for an insta-feature.

View this post on Instagram The lobby of this cute hotel. Handmade flowers adorned ceilings and walls made by local artisans. A post shared by Homer Mendoza (@bonjour_homer) on Sep 7, 2018 at 4:33am PDT

The Algarve

• Benagil Caves:  less than an hour from Faro, this cave on the water contains a large opening in its top, making it perfect to catch that golden hour light.
• Praia do Camilo:  if you aren’t afraid to climb the 200 wooden steps, you’ll be rewarded with this secluded cove in Lagos. The vibrant blue water contrasts perfectly with the ochre cliffs: a photographer’s dream.
• Albufeira:  this historic maritime town is known for its vibrant nightlife, but the whitewashed buildings and gorgeous beaches are perfect for Instagram.

View this post on Instagram Zrobiliśmy to 😍😍😍 A post shared by Agnieszka Jurzak (@projekt_podroze) on Sep 14, 2018 at 8:09am PDT

See Also: How to Photograph Waterfalls with an iPhone

• Miradouro da Vista do Rei:  in Ponta Delgada on the island of São Miguel, the “king view” provides photographers with a perfect glimpse of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, two small but very different lakes.
• Parque dos Caldierões:  this park, also on São Miguel, is a peaceful escape from city life. With gorgeous nature, a cute café, and even a waterfall, this one checks all the boxes.
• The Santa Maria Chimneys:  the southernmost island in the Azores, Santa Maria is known for the colourful and elaborate chimneys many of its buildings boast! A perfect place to grab a slightly quirky photo.

View this post on Instagram . . Voilà la vue une fois les nuages découverts… . . ▪️ . . #saomiguel #setecidades #colors #natur #azores #acores #volcan #holidays #theview #picoftheday #photography #photooftheday #vacances #traveler #nike A post shared by ▼▼▼▼▼▼▼ |⠀Mamijeanno⠀| ▲▲▲▲▲▲▲ (@mamijeanno) on Sep 13, 2018 at 2:00am PDT

Whether you’re fondly reminiscing about your own Portuguese adventure, daydreaming about a future trip, or just looking for some travel inspiration, Portugal’s best Instagram accounts have got you covered! Find your favourites and get ready to follow, and, for those of you who don’t want to miss a single post, make sure to turn on your post notifications.

What are your favourite Instagram accounts from Portugal? Let us know!

Sama is the Social Media Coordinator at TourRadar . She strongly believes in the power of narratives, because story matters. In her spare time, you can find this proud Aquarius reading Dan Brown novels, binge watching shows on Netflix, taking her camera on scenic walks, or discussing world issues over a slice of warm cheese pizza.

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20 Instagram Spots in Lisbon

Lisbon is such a beautiful city. It has soul, and every corner makes you feel like you’re in a movie.

On this article we have selected the best photo locations so you can find easily the best photo spots to capture amazing photos in Lisbon.

• Are you looking for a photographer during your trip to Lisbon? Book a private photoshoot here!

Where to stay in Lisbon for the best photo opportunities

Elevador da Bica

Comercio Square

Belem tower, jeronimos monastery, pink street, green street, livraria ler devagar.

Campo de Santa Clara

National Pantheon

Lisbon cathedral, miradouro de santa luzia, miradouro portas do sol, miradouro da senhora do monte, bairro alto, rua do telhal, rua do espirito santo, casa do alentejo.

Avenida da Liberdade

Pena Palace

Quinta da regaleira, monserrate palace.

Lisbon offers a wide range of possibilities: from boutique hotels to the coolest hostels, try to book something centrally located so you make the most of your time. The best neighborhoods in Lisbon for first-timers are Baixa and Chiado.

These are the most photogenic hotels in Lisbon:

• My Story Hotel Augusta
• The One Palacio da Anunciada
• Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon

The Elevador da Bica is the most picturesque cable car in Lisbon. This is my favorite photo spot in the city!

This funicular connects Baixa with Bairro Alto and gathers most tourists on top of the hill to take pictures with the tram and the stunning views.

It costs 3,80€ to ride the elevator and this fee allows 2 trips, one in each direction.

Our tip: take a photo of the funicular from the side. You will have to wait a bit but it’s totally worth it!

Praça do Comercio

In between the Tagus river and Baixa neighborhood, Comercio Square (a.k.a. Terreiro do Paço) and its Rua Augusta Arch are a must-visit site in Lisbon. Besides the main square and the arch, the archway is really cool for photos.

It’s always bustling with people and it’s also a really good place to enjoy the sunset in Lisbon.

Av. Brasília

Belem Tower is one of the most iconic symbols of Lisbon that you definitely need to add to your itinerary in Lisbon.

This former fort has been classified UNESCO Heritage site along with the nearby Jeronimos Monastery.

Our tip: go there for sunrise to avoid other tourists. It can get really busy during the rest of the day.

Praça do Império 1400-206 

Jeronimos Monastery is a UNESCO Heritage site in Belem with an intricate facade in Manuelino style.

Fun fact: it’s often said that the original recipe of the pasteis de nata was created here.

Rua Nova do Carvalho

Underwhelming for some, we cannot deny that Rua Nova do Carvalho became insta-famous thanks to its colorful mix of buildings in blue and yellow combined with its pink pavement.

This area used to be the Red Lights district, but colors changed its reputation forever. Now, lots of photography aficionados come to visit it during the day, and the whole area is bustling in nightlife later in the day.

Do not miss Pensao Amor: it’s one of my favorite hidden gems in Lisbon.

R. da Silva

On my most recent visit to Lisbon I’ve found this quaint little street by chance.

It’s a lovely street with nice bars and restaurant away from the tourists.

R. Rodrigues de Faria 103

Just a 15-minute drive from the historic city center, LX Factory is the coolest place in Lisbon.

What used to be an industrial area is now a myriad of restaurants, offices, concept stores, and street art. Every corner in LX Factory is worth a picture.

Every Sunday there’s an open-air market if you want to go have a look!

R. Rodrigues de Faria 103 – G 0.3

You know I have a thing with bookstores and libraries and Lisbon has one of the most beautiful ones I’ve ever visited. Livraria Ler Devagar is a dream for book lovers.

It’s located in an old printing plant and you can still check how the machines work, learn about the story of the place by its owner, have a coffee while you read, or visit one of their photography and art exhibitions.

It’s one of our favorite places in Lisbon.

Mural de azulejos – Botto Machado

Feira da Ladra, the Lisbon flea market, takes place in Campo de Santa Clara every Tuesday and Saturday.

There, a massive tiled wall with colorful street art by André Saraiva makes the best background for Instagram pictures.

The National Pantheon is an old church where many Portuguese personalities are buried.

It’s a beautiful white-washed building.

R. Augusto Rosa

Lisbon Cathedral (known as Sé) is the oldest church in the city and it’s another must-visit sight in Lisbon.

It has survived earthquakes and several renovations.

Wait for the tram 28 to go in front of the façade for the perfect instagram photo.

Largo Santa Luzia

The Miradouro de Santa Luzia is probably the most popular viewpoint in Lisbon, hence, it’s usually pretty packed.

Anyways, it’s still beautiful and worth the visit. There are usually buskers playing traditional music.

It looks especially beautiful in spring when the flowers are in bloom.

Largo Portas do Sol

Miradouro Portas do Sol is really close to Miradouro de Santa Luzia and it’s recommended to visit both while in this area.

Beware of street vendors in this area.

Largo Monte

Lisbon is also known as the city of the seven hills and thanks to that, it’s possible to get breathtaking views from many different spots throughout the city.

The best views are probably the ones you can get from Castelo de San Jorge, but if you don’t want to pay the entrance fee, the second-best viewpoint is the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. It’s free for everyone and simply stunning.

Praça Luís de Camões 2

Bairro Alto is a peaceful and charming neighborhood, with many small shops, restaurants, and cafes. The architecture of the buildings is typical of Lisbon, with colorful facades, intricate tiles, and wrought iron balconies.

This area is also home of my favorite hotel in Lisbon: Bairro Alto Hotel

R. do Telhal

Rua do Telhal is one of the most beautiful streets in Lisbon.

You will love this row of colorful buildings!

R. do Espirito Santo

Alfama is the most charming neighborhood in Lisbon and it deserves a full day walking down its narrow streets with little colorful buildings, plants and hanging clothes.

One of the most beautiful streets in Aflama is Rua do Espírito Santo, really close to Castelo de Sao Jorge.

Praça do Príncipe Real 26

Even the mall is pretty in Lisbon.

If Porto has the most beautiful railway station , Lisbon can proudly say they have the most beautiful shopping center.

Embaixada is located in a 19th-century palace with gorgeous frescos and a lovely skylight, featuring Portuguese designers & brands and restaurants.

R. das Portas de Santo Antão 58

This former Moorish Palace is one of those well-kept secrets in Lisbon. Located right behind a very popular street and with a tiny front door, you could easily miss it.

Behind its modest entrance, you’ll find its impressive courtyard and beautiful tiles.

MAAT stands for the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology. It faces a stunning view of the Tagus river and the 25 de Abril bridge.

The museum itself is an architectural piece of art and you can actually walk on top of it.

It’s a recommended sunset spot in Lisbon.

Avenida da Liberdade is the most expensive street in Portugal. It’s a beautiful boulevard that connects Baixa with Eduardo VII park.

This is where the designer shops or luxury hotels such as Four Seasons are located.

It’s a pretty spot to visit during Christmas as the shops are very nicely decorated.

Instagram spots in Sintra

If you have the opportunity, it’s really easy to visit Sintra from Lisbon. You can visit on your own car or public transportation, but we absolutely recommend this guided day tour that covers Sintra, Regaleira and Cascais for an hassle-free experience!

The most popular attractions on Instagram are featured below.

Pena Palace is a colorful palace that looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale.

Tip: if you want to recreate the epic photos you see every day on Instagram, we highly recommend trying to be the first in line early in the morning: it gets really crowded and busy!

Quinta da Regaleira is the most mysterious (and kinda dark) place in Sintra.

It’s also another place that gets crowded now because of its Instagram popularity, so pack a bag of patience if you’re planning to go!

Monserrat Palace is a hidden gem in Sintra. While most tourists gather in Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, Monserrate Palace is not as famous as its neighbors yet. That’s exactly why we recommend visiting it.

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Why Visit Lisbon? 16 Great Reasons to Visit the Portuguese Capital

Why visit Lisbon? As a historic, vibrant city with so much to see, it’s the perfect destination for a European weekend break. Here’s everything you need to know about a weekend in the capital of Portugal…

Famous for its narrow, cobblestone streets, colourfully-tiled buildings and haunting Fado music, Lisbon is jam-packed with history and tradition. But it’s not all historic fortresses and cathedrals – the Portuguese capital boasts modern art spaces, tech start-ups and edgy music scenes too. 

I almost moved there once. Kinda wish I had TBH. It’s such a cool city with so much to do and see, and really easy to get to from the UK too.

The blend of old and new gives the city a unique feel, and is one of the main reasons why everyone should visit Lisbon at least once in their lives. Need more convincing? Read on for travel tips on one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Why visit Lisbon?

Here’s what makes the Portuguese capital a top destination.

1. Weather in Lisbon

Because it’s blessed with a Mediterranean climate, Lisbon enjoys pleasant weather almost year-round. Winters are fairly mild, with temperatures rarely dipping below 10°C, while summers are warm with temperatures ranging between 25 to 30°C. It gets plenty of sunshine, which certainly adds to the city’s charm. 

2. Great travel links

Another reason why Lisbon is such a great destination is that it’s easy to get to. Humberto Delgado Airport has flight connections all over world and is just a few kilometres outside the city. Once you’ve landed, the metro system is a speedy way to get around; trams, funiculars and the historic Santa Justa Lift offer more scenic transport routes above ground. 

We actually took a taxi, which cost around €25 if I remember correctly, and made things very easy.

3. Lisbon’s rich history

Founded by the seafaring Phonecians around 1200 BC, Lisbon is thought to be one of the oldest cities in the world. As you’d expect, it’s seen its fair share of drama down the years; it was a significant outpost of the Roman Empire before being conquered by the Moors in the eighth century.

Then, in the 12th century, it was recaptured by the Christian Crusaders, which set the stage for Lisbon’s golden age – known as the ‘Age of Discoveries’.

The city suffered a massive earthquake in 1755, which killed more than a third of its population. Many of its historic buildings survived though, allowing visitors a glimpse into its varied past.  

4. Stunning architecture

Walking around Lisbon often feels like you’ve stepped into an architectural art gallery. Some of the most striking buildings include the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery , both UNESCO World Heritage Sites found in the historic Belem district of the city. Lisbon is one of the most beautiful places in Portugal .

You’ll also want to check out the pastel-coloured Pombaline buildings of Baixa district, and you can’t miss the city’s iconic azulejo tiles, which decorate everything from churches to metro stations.

5. Amazing views

If you plan on doing lots of walking when you visit Lisbon, you’ll find that every day is leg day – it’s a hilly city!

You’ll be rewarded with some outstanding views for your efforts though, with notable lookout points including Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, the city’s highest spot, or Miradouro da Graça, which offers breathtaking views of the castle and the Tagus River.

For a more relaxed approach to taking in the cityscape, ride up the Santa Justa Lift to get an Instagram-worthy view of Lisbon’s historic district, including Rossio Square and the Carmo Convent ruins.

6. Diverse neighbourhoods

One of the coolest things about Lisbon, and one of the answers to the question of why visit Lisbon, is the distinctive character of its neighbourhoods.

Stroll through the steep streets of Alfama, the city’s oldest district with narrow alleys and Fado bars. Explore trendy Bairro Alto, known for its vibrant nightlife, or the sophisticated Chiado, with its boutiques and cafes. Parque das Nações is at the more modern end of the spectrum, boasting contemporary architecture and a swanky waterfront.

I loved just wandering around when I visited Lisbon .

7. Gateway to Portugal

If you’re planning to explore more of what Portugal has to offer, Lisbon is a great starting point. For an easy day trip, check out the romantic palaces of Sintra, the sunny beaches of Cascais, or the vineyards of the Douro Valley.

What is Lisbon famous for?

Here are just a few of the things that make the capital of Portugal so special…

8. Lisbon food

When you land in Lisbon, you’d better make sure you’ve worked up an appetite because the food is hard to resist. First, there’s the seafood and Bacalhau à Brás – shredded cod with eggs and potatoes – is a dish you just have to try. Carnivores will love the Bifanas, which are succulent meat sandwiches, while those with a sweet tooth should make a beeline for the Pastéis de Nata, Portugal’s famous egg custard tart. The answer to ‘why visit Lisbon?’ could just be ‘for the food’.

9. Fado music

Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, Lisbon’s famous Fado music will almost certainly tug at the heartstrings. Originating in the 1820s, these mournful tunes are all about feeling ‘saudade’ or a sense of longing, and they’re an emblematic part of the city’s cultural identity.

10. Tram 28

Hop on Tram 28 and you’re in for a treat. First operating in the 1930s, this iconic yellow tram is a journey back in time, trundling through Lisbon’s old quarters like Alfama, Baixa, and Graça. It’s the classic image of Lisbon and the best way to navigate the city’s steep, winding streets while catching a glimpse of its key landmarks.

11. The seven hills

As the locals will tell you, Lisbon’s seven hills aren’t just geographical features, they’re the city’s soul. São Jorge, São Roque, São Vicente, Santo André, Santa Catarina, Chagas and Sant’Ana each offers their own view over terracotta rooftops, the historic quarters and the Tagus. Climb them all in a day and you’ll certainly deserve a glass of something celebratory. 

Unusual things to do in Lisbon

While the well-trodden paths of Lisbon offer plenty to admire, there are some things you just can’t do anywhere else…

12. Visit Christ the King

This imposing figure is inspired by Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer and stands over 100 metres tall. There’s an observation deck in its base which offers incredible views of the city.

13. Drink ginginha

If you’re in the mood for a tipple, give Lisbon’s traditional cherry liqueur a go. Often served in a chocolate cup, it’s like a pudding and a digestif all in one. 

14. Have a drink at a brothel

Lisbon is known for its outstanding nightlife. One of the more unusual places to grab a drink is the Pensão do Amor (which translates as the ‘Love Pension’), a former brothel on the central Cais do Sodré district. Expect raunchy decor, eyebrow-raising artefacts and, importantly, tasty cocktails. 

15. Hang out at LXFactory

Lisbon has a seriously trendy side to it, and nowhere encapsulates that better than this converted 19th-century industrial complex in Alcântara. It’s a hive of creativity, hosting an eclectic mix of artists’ studios, independent shops, and hip eateries.

16. Head for some of Europe’s best beaches 

You don’t have to travel too far from the Portuguese capital to find some incredible beaches. Hop on a train from the main terminal in Cais do Sodré and explore the sands of Oeiras, Estoril and Cascais.

17. Visit Oceanario de Lisboa

Home to over 8,000 ocean-dwelling creatures, Oceanario de Lisboa is the largest indoor aquarium in Portugal. Besides a wide variety of our underwater cousins, Oceanario de Lisboa is also a sanctuary for an array of birds, mammals and amphibians. It’s also one of the biggest aquariums in Europe – well worth a looksee!

Is Lisbon worth visiting? Short answer: yes

Now that you’ve read this guide, hopefully it’s clear that the question isn’t ‘Is Lisbon worth visiting?’ but rather ‘How soon can you visit Lisbon?’ It’s a city with a rich history, diverse neighbourhoods, and a vibrant culture. And there are plenty of unusual things to do in Lisbon, too. So pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with with the Portuguese capital!

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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Why Visit Lisbon? 7 Reasons to Visit The Portuguese Capital

ARE YOU ASKING: WHY VISIT LISBON?

In 2017 CNN named Lisbon one of the coolest European cities , and today that still rings true. This Portuguese capital perfectly balances old and new, filled with historical treasures and modern charms. It is a city known for its food, nightlife, colorful buildings, fado music, and friendly locals.

Don’t want to explore Lisbon by yourself? Take a private or group tour of this beautiful city.

We recommend this 5⭐️ Half Day Sightseeing Tour on a Private Electric Tuk Tuk or this budget-friendly Lisbon: History, Stories and Lifestyle Walking Tour .

Lisbon is also one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, with a history of 2,700 years. Due to its excellent trading location, the Phoenicians settled in Lisbon around 1200 BC. The city is the second oldest in Europe, after Athens, and is said to be four centuries older than Rome. Can you believe that?

Today it is a city teeming with life. A city is full of color, character, and creativity.

So why should you visit Lisbon? Well, here are just a couple of reasons to visit Lisbon or at least add it to your travel bucket list.

Why Visit Lisbon? The Pros:

Located in Western Portugal, Lisbon lies at the mouth of the Tejo River . It is a hilly coastal capital city that enjoys an average of more than 300 sunny days a year. Lisbon is, among other things , known for its unique historical center, stunning architecture, colorful azulejos (ceramic tiles), and fantastic food.

It also has a fascinating history, filled with rulers, invasions, destructions, and re-constructions . History aside, Lisbon is a fantastic place to visit. So why visit Lisbon? Here are a couple of reasons why we think you should visit Lisbon, Portugal.

1. The Weather Is Great

Why visit Lisbon? Well, as mentioned previously, Lisbon is a sunny city. It is, in fact, the sunniest capital city in mainland Europe. It also has a great climate year-round.

In the summer, Lisbon experiences bright, sunny, and hot summers. July is the sunniest month, with an average of 352 hours of sunshine. The average temperatures during these months range between 25-27°C but can go as high as 30°C. Summers are hot in Lisbon . That is why most people beat the heat by visiting the many beach towns around Lisbon, including Cascais , Ericeira , and Costa da Caparica.

The great thing about Lisbon is that it is equally pleasant to visit during the shoulder seasons. During spring (March to May) and fall (September to October), the temperature is still quite warm, while the crowds are not as bad. During these seasons, expect temperatures to be around 18°C to 22°C.

Nevertheless, if you come during the shoulder seasons, pack some warmer clothes as the temperature drops during the evening and nighttime.

⭐️ Insider tip: One of the best times to visit Lisbon is at the end of September. The weather is still pleasant, but most of the crowds have dissipated , and the prices have stabilized . And the party isn’t over yet, as plenty of events are still going on. For example, most of the beach bars in Costa don’t close until October . Finally, water around Lisbon is the warmest in September, clocking in at a comfortable 20°C —perfect for an ocean dip.

Finally, winter in Lisbon can be quite mild, with an average daytime temperature of 15°C. The nights are, however, colder, especially in December and January. Though the days are chillier, Lisbon is still a great place to visit during the wintertime. However, expect rainfall. If you come during the winter, make sure to rent an apartment with a good heating system—more about this later.

All in all, why visit Lisbon? The city is known for its sunshine and beautiful warm weather. Overall is a great city to visit year-round.

2. Delicious Cuisine

Lisbon is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities , which also means it is home to many restaurants. Whatever craving you might have, there is probably a restaurant serving that type of food.

Are you a foodie 🫒? Read our articles: 15 Food Tours In Lisbon: A Guide To The Best Eats In The City and Discovering The Best Food In Portugal: A Taste Tour Of The Country’s Top 27 Dishes .

But, let’s focus on Portuguese food. What food is Lisbon known for ? Well, Portugal, in general, is known for its seafood, which includes a Portuguese favorite, bacalhau , also known as salted cod.

Seafood is a must in Lisbon, and if you are Googling restaurants, you’ve probably already heard of Cevejario Ramiro , which was featured on an episode of Somebody Feed Phil . Although we might not recommend this particular restaurant, there are a lot of traditional Portuguese restaurants that you can try.

Here are some dishes that you should consider ordering:

• Bacalhau à Brás : shredded cod, fried potatoes, eggs, onions, black olives, olive oil, and a little parsley.
• Pasteis de Bacalhau : cod fritters
• Bacalhau à Lagareiro : cod with cream
• Polvo à Lagareiro : octopus with olive oil and potatoes
• Porco preto: Iberian black pork 
• Caldo Verde : a popular soup that includes finely shredded collard greens, potatoes, olive oil, black pepper, and salt, mainly flavored with onion and garlic
• Bifana: a traditional Portuguese sandwich that comprises a bread roll filled with marinated pork cutlets

Then there is the famous pastéis de nata . Make sure you try one (or five). Also, try the Pastel de Belém, which, if you didn’t know, is the original pastel de nata. In 1837, these little cakes were sold by a monastery and quickly became known under the name “Pastéis de Belém.” Unfortunately, the recipe was never shared publicly, and to this day, only a few people know it. Those who have learned the recipe have to sign a non-disclosure agreement. As a result, no one has ever been able to truly replicate the original Pastéis de Belém. Thus they created the next best thing, pastéis de nata .

Finally, don’t forget about the wine. Some of the best wine in the world is found in Portugal . And we’ve also put together a list of seven wine shops you can check out on your trip to Lisbon.

3. Great place for nightlife

Considered to be among the best in Europe,  Lisbon is well known for its nightlife . Lisbon nightlife is fast making a name for itself as one of Europe’s most exciting, innovative scenes. So, whether you’re looking to sip cocktails while listening to live music or want to dance the night away, there’s something for everyone.

Before we start, let’s go through some basic tips. Like many Southern European neighbors , dinner is always a late affair in Lisbon. Late dinners mean later parties . If you plan to go to the bars, make sure to head out after 11 pm. Bars in Lisbon  tend to be free entry and open until 3 or 4 a.m. Nightclubs, however, will charge an entry fee and close around 6 a.m.

⭐️ Insider’s tip: Lisbon is a hilly city, so make sure to leave the heels and flip-flops at home—you’ll thank us later!

If you are looking to party, then there are four key areas that you can head on over to:

• Pink Street . Transformed from Lisbon’s red light district to a party hotspot, Cais do Sodre is home to the Rua Nova do Carvalho, also known as “ Pink street .” Why pink street? Well, because it is quite literally painted pink. This trendy street is filled with a myriad of bars and clubs, including Pensão Amor , a former brothel, and Music Box , a trendy club.
• Bairro Alto . Bairro Alto is the  most iconic neighborhood to go out for a party night . The neighborhood is one of the biggest party spots in Lisbon, with more than 100 bars and restaurants.
• Principe Real. Next door to Bairro Alto is Principe Real, the perfect place for a more upscale or classier night out on the town. The neighborhood has live music spots, cocktail bars, and even the unique Pavilhão Chinês bar.
• Alfama . If you looking for a relaxing night in Lisbon, then make sure to head on over to the historic neighborhood of Alfama . Our recommendation? Check out Antiga Wine Bar for a great selection of food and drinks.

Whatever neighborhood you choose, we are sure you will enjoy Lisbon’s nightlife.

4. An Eclectic Mix of Old & New

So what is Lisbon famous for? The city is known for its monuments, landmarks, architecture, and museums. But it also has a lot of modern-day charm.

Coming to Lisbon 🏨 🇵🇹? Read our article: The 23 Best Boutique Hotels In Lisbon .

Lisbon is home to the oldest bookstore in the world, the Livraria Bertrand , which opened in 1782 . Then there is the Mosteiro dos Jerònimos built in the early 1500s. The monastery, located in the Belem district, is one of the most decorated churches in Portugal. It is also designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then there are the churches, the Sé de Lisboa , built in 1147, and the Convento do Carmo , built between 1389 – 1423.

But along with the old, there is the new, hip, and trendy. Our favorite example is the LXFactory , which transformed a manufacturing complex that housed a fabric company back in the 1800s into a hip, trendy spot filled with restaurants, shops, cafes, and galleries.

Lisbon is about neighborhoods —each with its distinct vibe, ready to be explored. It is a city filled with old and new magic and is the perfect place to wander around and get lost in.

5. The Views Are Unforgettable

Lisbon is known as the city of the seven hills. Yes, walking up all those hills can be a pain, but the views can be magnificent once you get to the top. Also, this is an excellent option for people looking to answer the question: “what to do in Lisbon for free.”

Lisbon is home to many different viewpoints or miradouros , each with a different view of the city below. Some even offer views of the April 25th bridge and parts of Margem Sul. Here are a couple of our favorite miradouros:

• Miradouro da Graça : great views and lively atmosphere.
• Miradouro das Portas do Sol : beautiful views of the Tagus River and the Alfama neighborhood. On the weekends, there is a DJ that plays by the statue of São Vicente de Fora.
• Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte : the highest point in Lisbon & not as touristy as the others

6. Very Well Connected

Why visit Lisbon? Well, it is a city smack-dab in the middle of Portugal , meaning it is the perfect jumping-off point to e xplore what Portugal has to offe r. Many people head directly to Porto, but there are so many different places to visit other than Lisbon and Porto.

If you have a limited amount of time, several day-trip options are available around the city. Our recommendations?

• The magical city of Sintra is home to palaces, forests, villas, and ruins.
• The traditional Portuguese fishing village of Ericeira is also a popular surfing spot near Lisbon.
• The towns of Margem Sul, including Costa da Caparica for surfing, Sesimbra for relaxing (or scuba diving), Azeitao for wine & food, or Setubal for food, wine, and beaches.
• The medieval town of Óbidos , where you can also try the famous ginja.
• The stunning Berlengas Islands and the surfing town of Peniche.

If you have more time to explore, Lisbon is a great spot to start your Portuguese adventure. Travelers can go south towards the Algarve, stopping off in the Alentejo region , known for its wine, rolling hills, historic fortified towns, and beautiful coastline. Or travelers can go north to explore the Silver Coast from Lisbon to Porto (and beyond). There are plenty of tours from Lisbon to Porto if you are limited on time but still want to visit this magical northern city.

Another option is to go inwards and explore the various cities in Central Portugal, from the Templar city of Tomar to Coimbra , up to Guimarães , the birthplace of Portugal.

The options are endless, so where do you want to go?

7. It is Quite Safe

Being a politically stable, progressive, and liberal city, Lisbon is amongst the safest capital cities of Europe. This doesn’t mean it has a zero crime rate—you always have to be aware of petty crimes like pick-pocketing and drug trafficking.

Remember to avoid excessive drinking, stay away from drug pushers, and always be aware of your surroundings. Also, please do not be rude or insensitive to locals. If you do visit Lisbon, please be a responsible traveler.

Finally, is Lisbon safe for LGBTQ+ travelers ? Well, Lisbon is amongst the most gay-friendly travel destinations in the world. It is also emerging as one of Europe’s top destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers, with many LGBT-friendly bars and clubs opening their doors in recent years. Some bars we recommend include Trumps , Shelter Bar , and Posh Lisbon .

Why Visit Lisbon? The Cons

The above-stated reasons to visit Lisbon do not mean the city is without any faults. Below are the things you should know before visiting Lisbon and can answer the question: why visit Lisbon?

1. The Hills & Streets

Lisbon is perched on seven hills. And although the views are magnificent from above, it can be quite exhausting walking up all those hills—especially during the hot and humid summer months.

If you are a person that loves to hike or walk uphill, then Lisbon is the city for you—but for most of us, it can be a challenge.

Lisbon is a walkable city. However, it also has a great transportation system if you aren’t keen on walking. Hundreds of eager tuk-tuk drivers can easily zip you and your family up any of the steep hills. Last but certainly not least, UBER works well in Lisbon and can be cheap.

Remember, Lisbon’s steep, narrow, cobblestoned streets are not for the faint of heart . They are also not made for high heels or flip-flops. If you plan on coming to Lisbon, switch out those heels or flip-flops for more sensible walking shoes —your feet will thank you. Finally, if you are traveling with kids, consider leaving the stroller at home or come with other options.

2. Lisbon Has Become Overcrowed

For many tourists, Portugal has become a bucket list destination . In 2019, 27 million  tourists visited this relatively small country. The majority went straight to the cities, including Lisbon.

Trish Lorenz , a journalist and resident of Lisbon, states, “ In both Lisbon and Porto, the central downtown areas have become more or less only for tourists. Lisbon’s Baixa district, for example, which covers an area of 1.5 square kilometers, now has more than 70 hotels, while tourist-oriented restaurants, souvenir shops, and big international brands have displaced local businesses .”

What does this all mean? Queues, crowds, tourist prices, and ultimately a lack of authenticity.

In the summertime, streets in the central area are flooded with tourists, almost elbow-to-elbow, making the experience in the city much less magical . In a sea of tourists, we recommend going off the beaten path a little. And when Lisbon gets a little too much for you, opt to explore lesser-known cities and areas instead of going to the obvious places, like Sintra and Cascais .

There is so much more to Portugal than Lisbon and Porto . And if you want to beat the crowds, maybe come during the shoulder season.

3. Lisbon CAN Be Expensive

One of the reasons you might question why visit Lisbon is the price. Unlike many European capitals like Paris and London, Lisbon can be less expensive. However, prices have increased drastically due to overtourism and an influx of digital nomads and ex-pats who have recently to the city.

The assumption usually is that Lisbon is a “cheap” place to travel to, but that isn’t necessarily true.

Nowadays, prices for hotels, restaurants, and activities can rival other top European destinations. Like any city subject to overtourism, tourist traps have also multiplied. These establishments have brought with them higher prices. For example, a cocktail at a bar with a view can cost around €10-15. Dinner at an upscale restaurant can run you over €200 or more.

However, the trick is to avoid tourist areas and instead look for local bars, restaurants, and activities. The price will be drastically different, and the experience will likely be more authentic.

So, is Lisbon cheap? No, but it doesn’t have to be expensive.

4. Parking Is A Nightmare

If you travel to Lisbon by car, beware of the parking situation. No matter what neighborhood you stay in, parking can be a nightmare.

Lisbon’s narrow, winding streets are not meant to make parking your car easy. Be extra cautious about where you park and whether you need to pay for parking . Some hotels offer parking at an additional cost, but this cost can be upwards of 15-18 euros per day —which is a little insane.

Also, there are s pecific streets where only residents can park . If you leave your car overnight on these streets, you may not only get a ticket but a boot on your car. And getting that boot off your car can be an incredibly frustrating and expensive experience.

The takeaway is to read all the signage on the street before parking your car. And if in doubt, ask a local .

5. Lack of Central Heating

Central heating is  not  common at all in Lisbon. Houses and apartments in many of the tourist areas are older buildings that have been renovated but are often still poorly insulated. These buildings  almost never have central heating of any kind , although some may have an air conditioning unit with a heat function.

This is not a problem during the summer months, but if you plan on renting an Airbnb apartment in the wintertime, then make sure to double-check what type of heating system is installed in the unit. However, this is not a problem in most hotels.

Now that you have read our pros and cons, have you decided : why visit Lisbon?

Final Verdict: Why Visit Lisbon 

So why visit Lisbon? Lisbon is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, filled with stunning architecture, gorgeous museums, delicious cuisine, and unique attractions.

However, if you plan on coming to the city, we recommend sticking around for 2-3 days and then moving on to another part of Portugal. Lisbon is a relatively small city, and you can see everything that you need to see during this period of time.

If it is your first-time visiting Lisbon and you want to see as many spots as possible, then purchase the Lisbon Card. The card gives you free access to the public transportation system for 24, 48, or 72 hours . It also gives you free access to many top attractions in the city and is even valid on trains going to Sintra and Cascais.

So have we answered the question: why visit Lisbon? Are you convinced yet?

Lisbon is worth visiting with its perfect weather, incredible architecture, ancient history, and modern hipster vibes. Once you come here, you will fall in love with its magic. We hope this article helps you with your answers on why visit Lisbon! So is Lisbon worth visiting? What do you think?

Also, if you are planning a trip to this city, this Ultimate Guide to Lisbon will help you.

Yvonne Ivanescu is the founder of Now in Portugal and Now in Rio Swim, an ethical and sustainable swimwear company. She is a writer, editor and marketer with over 10 years of experience.

Storytelling is her second nature and she wants to share the magic of Portugal with the rest of the world.

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It is a wonderful destination. It has very beautiful areas to discover. I recommend it to everyone.

I went to Lisbon when I was very young but didn’t take much notice, consequently, I don’t remember much of it. Now in my seventies, I would dearly love to visit and explore it. I’ve got a feeling that it’s my type of city. It must be a beautiful place. I missed-out last year when my childhood friends and respective wifes arranged to come from the UK to this “neck of the woods”… ish (I live in Gibraltar) – and I met them and stayed in Albufeira – Although I had suggested Lisbon they were against the idea of said city because of it’s many hills – They are not great walkers of hills. Anyway, my wife and I will go to see Lisbon some day in the not too distant future.

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Is Lisbon Worth Visiting? 16 Great Reasons to Visit Lisbon

Wondering, is Lisbon worth visiting? Fab, this article is for you!

Lisbon is an absolute must-visit for travellers seeking an extraordinary experience. There are so many reasons to visit Lisbon, which is what I’m going to tell you about today.

From the iconic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, which showcase the city’s rich history, to the enchanting winding lanes of Alfama, Lisbon is a treasure trove of awe-inspiring architecture just waiting to be uncovered.

Another top draw to Lisbon is its vibrant cultural scene. The city is renowned for its soulful Fado music,  which fills cosy taverns with its heartfelt melodies, as well as a beautiful street art scene. Whether you’re interested in culture, history or food, visiting Lisbon won’t disappoint.

If you were wondering, why visit Lisbon, read on and get ready to indulge in the tantalizing delights of the Portuguese capital. Lisbon guarantees an unforgettable destination that will leave you wanting more.

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?

Definitely! Not only is Lisbon the world’s second oldest capital, but there’s so much to do here.

Lisbon guarantees a fantastic vacation experience. Whether you’re visiting Lisbon on a short city break , or as part of a longer trip around Portugal, you’ll find plenty of things to do and see. 

There are so many reasons to fall in love with Lisbon, although I’ve listed my favourite things, there are loads more reasons for you to discover yourself. 

16 Reasons to Visit Lisbon

• Lisbon Has a Lot of History
• Full of UNESCO Sites
• Lisbon Is Close to Fairytale Castles
• Outstanding Food Scene
• Lisbon Has Amazing Weather
• Vibrant Nightlife
• Lisbon Is Close to Beautiful Beaches
• Stunning Architecture Blending Old and New
• Vibrant Music Scene
• Fantastic City Views
• Well Connected to the Rest of Portugal
• Lisbon Is Home to the Famous Yellow Trams
• The People Are Friendly and English Is Widely Spoken
• Lisbon Is a Safe City
• It’s a Walkable City
• World-Class Shopping

Visiting Lisbon – Know Before You Go

Before you set off, on your fabulous trip to Lisbon, there here are some useful nuggets of information to help you plan your trip. 

If you’re already in the city and you’re reading this, then go grab one of the delicious Portuguese pastéis de nata before settling down to read this.

Getting to Lisbon

Lisbon is easy to get to. For most visitors, you will arrive by air. You’ll touch down at Lisbon Portela Airport (airport code LIS), also known as Humberto Delgado Airport). 

The airport is just a short 7 kilometres away from the city centre. When it comes to reaching Lisbon city centre from the airport, you’ve got plenty of options. 

By Taxi – If you’re after convenience and ease, you can either hop into a taxi or summon an Uber right outside the arrivals terminal. At peak times there can be a queue, so it might be easier to book your Lisbon airport transfer in advance. The ride usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on the traffic.

By Metro –  Feeling adventurous? Jump on the metro! The airport boasts a metro station on the red line (Linha Vermelha). Trains run from 6:30 am to 1:00 am, whisking you to the city centre in a quick 20-25 minutes. It’s not only affordable but also a nifty way to get around.

By Shuttle Bus –  For a hassle-free journey which stops at the city centre locations, the airport shuttle bus is your go-to. The Aerobus service operates from 7:30 am to 11:00 pm, and although travel time can vary with traffic, it’s the cheapest choice.

VIP Transfer –  Now, if you’re carrying a load of luggage or fancy a more personalized experience, booking a meet and greet, private transfer in advance is the premium option. Several companies offer this service, ensuring a smooth ride tailored to your needs.

Getting Around Lisbon

Getting around Lisbon is an absolute breeze, thanks to its world-class transportation system. 

When it comes to exploring the charming nooks and crannies of Lisbon’s historic districts, hopping on a tram is an absolute must. Don’t miss the iconic Tram 28, which takes you on a delightful journey through the narrow streets that ooze with history and character!

If you’re looking to cover more ground and zip around like a local, the metro is your best friend. It’s reliable, covers all the major areas of the city, and gets you where you want to go without breaking a sweat.

Is Lisbon a Walkable City?

Lisbon is a city that’s made for strolling, especially in its central areas. Despite the hills, you’ll find that many neighbourhoods and attractions are just a short walk away from each other.

By exploring Lisbon’s narrow streets and picturesque viewpoints on foot, you’ll truly soak up the city’s one-of-a-kind charm.  One of the best ways to get your bearings is on a Lisbon guided city tour .

Just don’t forget to bring your comfiest shoes because Lisbon’s got some steep streets. You’re rewarded for your efforts, as lots of hills mean lots of vantage points for panoramic views of the city. 

Is Lisbon Safe?

One of the main reasons on why visit Lisbon is that like the rest of Europe. It’s an incredibly safe city for travellers. 

Even for residents, it has a relatively low crime rate, and violent incidents are rare. 

However, as with any popular tourist destination, it’s important to remain vigilant and take common-sense precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, avoid displaying valuable items, and be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded public transport or tourist sites. 

Where to Stay in Lisbon?

Lisbon boasts a wide array of accommodation options that cater to every type of traveller. Here are my top picks.

Boutique Accommodation in Lisbon – Santiago de Alfama 

Located in the charming Alfama district, Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel offers a boutique experience with its stylish rooms, personalized service, and unique decor. This boutique hotel features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city, a cosy lounge, and a restaurant serving delicious Portuguese cuisine.

Check Availability Via Booking

Check Availability Via Agoda

Affordable Accommodation in Lisbon – Lisbon Sunset Destination Hostel

Lisbon Destination Hostel provides budget-friendly accommodation with a vibrant and social atmosphere. Situated in the trendy Bairro Alto neighbourhood, this hostel offers a range of dormitory rooms and private rooms. Guests can enjoy facilities such as a communal kitchen, a bar, a terrace, and organized activities, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers seeking a lively atmosphere.

So, why visit Lisbon, Portugal?

In this section, I tell you why you should visit Lisbon. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its vibrant culture and breathtaking vistas, Lisbon promises an unforgettable experience. 

Here are 16 compelling reasons to explore this remarkable city.

1. Lisbon Has a Lot of History

What is Lisbon known for, I hear you ask. One of the main things is the vast amount of history in the city. Did you know it’s the second oldest capital city in the world? 

Lisbon is a city packed with history and iconic landmarks that tell fascinating stories of its past. One of the must-see attractions is the São Jorge Castle , perched high on a hill and offering stunning views of the city and river. Exploring the castle lets you step back in time and discover its ancient walls, towers, and archaeological sites – some of the buildings dating back as far back as the 6th century BC!

Don’t miss the charming Alfama district. This was by far one of my favourite spots to get lost in. Be sure to spend time exploring its narrow, winding streets. It combines medieval architecture, and cobbled lanes opening into lively squares. I spend hours here!

Whilst you’re in Alfama, don’t miss the chance to experience a Fado . This soulful traditional music of Portugal originated here, in Alfama’s cosy Fado houses. 

One of the darkest days in Lisbon’s past bears witness to the destructive 1755 earthquake. The majority of the city was destroyed and to this date, you can still see remnants left in its wake. The roofless Carmo Convent is a striking example of this. It’s now transformed into an archaeological museum where you can explore its haunting ruins and fascinating artefacts.

As a huge fan of ruin sites – this was high on my list of places to see in Lisbon. 

For some of the best views in the city, head to Sao Jorge Castle. It’s perched on top of a hill overlooking Alfama District and beyond!

Book a skip-the-line ticket for Sao Jorge Castle to save queuing.

Read Next: The Complete One Day Lisbon Itinerary

2. Full of UNESCO Sites

Lisbon knows how to flaunt its cultural and architectural treasures, and its UNESCO World Heritage Sites are no exception.

One spot that truly stands out is the iconic Belem Tower (Torre de Belém). You might be wondering is Belem worth visiting. The answer is a resounding yes!

This 16th-century fortress proudly sits on the banks of the Tagus River, embodying Portugal’s maritime exploration legacy. From afar, it looks like a block on the landscape, but get up close and you’ll be able to see the intricacy of it. It’s located just outside of the main centre but is an easy metro ride away.

Another UNESCO gem in Lisbon is the Monastery of the Hieronymites also known as Mosteiro dos Jerónimos . It’s also nestled in the Belém district. This stunning monastery, constructed in the 16th century, is a masterpiece. It features elaborate details, grand courtyards, and ornate chapels. Plus, it serves as the final resting place for renowned historical figures.

Both Belem Tower and the Monastery of the Hieronymites are regarded as true treasures of Lisbon’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re drawn to maritime history, fascinated by impressive architectural feats, or simply eager to immerse yourself in Portugal’s rich heritage, a visit to Belem is an absolute must for history buffs and architecture aficionados alike.

Both of these sites are popular, especially in the peak summer months. Save time queuing and booking skip-the-line tickets.

Book Now: Skip the Line Belem Tower Ticket

Book Now: Skip the Line Jeronimos Monastery Ticket

3. Lisbon Is Close to Fairytale Castles

One huge persuasion point of why go to Lisbon, Portugal is that it’s the easiest gateway to explore some of Europe’s most stunning fairytale castles . Sintra is an absolute dream! Just a short distance from Lisbon, Sintra is a picturesque town nestled among lush hills, renowned for its enchanting palaces and castles. 

Visiting Sintra allows you to immerse yourself in a world of magical beauty. Explore iconic landmarks like the colourful Pena Palace and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira. The proximity of Lisbon to Sintra makes it an ideal day trip for those seeking to experience the allure of fairytale-like settings and indulge in the romanticism of castles and palaces.

I ended up spending two full days here exploring the region. Sinta gets insanely busy, so arrive early and head up the hill to Pena Palace first. A visit to Sintra 100% needs to be on your Portugal bucket list . 

Visit the inside first, before exploring the grounds. I spend about 4 hours here in total. Opposite is the Moorish castle, I enjoyed the castle wall walk here, and on a clear day, you have a fabulous view of the sea. 

If you’re pushed for time, I suggest skipping the Moorish castle and heading straight to Quinta da Regaleira. If you’ve ever watched the film ‘Pans Labarynth’ and seen the artistry of Guillermo del Toro Gómez, you’ll see plenty of his inspiration here. Like with Pena Palace, I spent a long time here exploring all the grottoes and follies. Don;t miss the Iniaition Well! 

If you don’t want to take the train from Lisbon, and then catch a local bus to the attractions in Sintra, book a full day tour to Sintra instead.

This is the most convenient way to see Sintra as transportation, guides and skip-the-line entry are all included.

Read Next: How To Visit Sintra From Lisbon

4. Outstanding Food Scene

Ask any foodie what is Lisbon, Portugal known for and I guarantee they’ll say the tastly cuisine. 

A must-visit destination for food enthusiasts is the Time Out Market Lisbon (Mercado da Ribeira), a vibrant food hall where you can indulge in a wide variety of gastronomic delights from renowned local chefs and vendors.

While Lisbon is known for its delicious seafood and meat dishes, there are also plenty of vegetarian options to explore. As a long-term veggie, I didn’t feel like I missed out on anything.

When in Lisbon, be sure to try:

• Pastel de Nata –  These delectable Portuguese custard tarts are an absolute must-try. The crispy pastry shell filled with creamy egg custard and a hint of cinnamon is a true delight. I ate these at every opportunity! 
• Pão com Chouriço – Although chouriço is traditionally made with pork, you can find a vegetarian version of this popular street food. It consists of a warm, crusty bread roll filled with either, a spicy Portuguese sausage or the veggie-friendly version with cheese and vegetables.
• Queijadas de Sintra –  These traditional pastries from the nearby town of Sintra are made with a mixture of cheese, sugar, and eggs. They are sweet, creamy, and the perfect mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
• Açorda – This comforting Portuguese bread soup is made with garlic, olive oil, and herbs. It is often flavoured with vegetables and spices.
• Alheira de Mirandela –  Although the traditional version of Alheira is made from Portuguese sausage. You’ll also find veggie-friendly alternatives. It‘s served as a full plate often with rice and vegetables.

If you’re short of time, and not sure where to start, then a great way to try lots of things is on a food and wine tour of Lisbon .

Your guide will take you around a selection of traditional eateries in this 3-hour small group tour.

5. Lisbon Has Amazing Weather

If you’re coming from Northern Europe or America, particularly during the winter months, one of the main reasons to visit Lisbon is that it has fabulous weather.

Lisbon’s weather is simply amazing! It’s one of the big reasons why people flock to this city. With its mild Mediterranean climate, you can expect warm summers and pleasant winters. 

Even though the air temperature drops low in the winter, the sun shines bright making for more comfortable temperatures. During the summers, the fresh sea breeze is welcome in the balmy sunshine.  

The comfortable year-round weather is the perfect excuse to explore the city’s charming nooks, chill out at the stunning beaches, or get your adventure on outdoors.

I visited during the springtime, there was ample sunshine every day, with clear blue skies. I had a couple of days where there were showers, but the ambient temperature was warm, so it was still possible to get out and see things, and just head to a cafe – any excuse for a Pastel de Nata – and wait for the shower to pass.

6. Vibrant Nightlife

Party the night away in Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife scene, where there’s something for everyone’s taste and style. Brace yourself for an epic experience at Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho). This once seedy area has now been transformed into the ultimate hotspot in the hip Cais do Sodré neighbourhood.

Formerly a red-light district, Pink Street is now a lively hub of bars, clubs, and restaurants, attracting locals and tourists alike. With its vibrant atmosphere, eclectic music, and stylish venues, Pink Street offers an unforgettable nightlife experience. 

Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy live music, or simply unwind with a drink in hand, Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife, with Pink Street at its epicentre, ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy well into the early hours of the morning.

7. Lisbon Is Close to Beautiful Beaches

Lisbon is super close to some amazing beaches. One of the best day trips and the main one I recommend checking out is Cascais. It’s like a beach paradise just a short trip away from the city.

Cascais used to be a quiet fishing village, but now it’s all happening with its chilled resort vibes, bustling town, and abundance of cafes and restaurants. The sandy beaches there are also clean and stretch along the sparkling Atlantic coast. Word of warning, I visited during Easter on a hot sunny day, for me the sea temperature was way too cold – I got out as quickly as I got in! Don’t expect tropical sea temperatures early in the season.  

It’s easy to get to Cascais from Lisbon. Just hop on a train from Cais do Sodré station in the middle of the city. The train ride itself is a pleasant ride with amazing views of the coast as you chug along. 

When you reach Cascais, you’ll find a cute little town with a much more chilled vibe compared to Lisbon. The streets are filled with cool cafes, stylish shops, and plenty of places to grab a bite to eat. 

Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, breathe in that salty sea air, and treat yourself to some mouthwatering ice cream or cocktail at one of the restaurants by the water.

8. Stunning Architecture Blending Old and New

Get ready to be wowed by Lisbon’s stunning architecture , where old and new effortlessly come together to create a visual feast for the eyes. Lisbon is home to some of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks. 

The Santa Justa Elevator (Elevador de Santa Justa) is an iconic example of Lisbon’s architectural splendour. This Gothic-inspired iron elevator connects downtown Baixa with the bohemian neighbourhood of Bairro Alto. 

Its intricate metalwork and panoramic views from the top make it a must-see attraction. This was one of my favourite viewing spots in the city. Head out to the viewing platform at the top – this is one of the best vantage points to see Sao Jorge Castle on the opposite hill. 

The São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) is another architectural gem that dominates Lisbon’s skyline. This medieval fortress stands proudly atop a hill above the Alfama district. It offers breathtaking views of the city. Exploring its ancient walls , towers, and archaeological sites allows visitors to immerse themselves in Lisbon’s rich history.

The Arco da Rua Augusta is a triumphal arch. It’s a symbol of Lisbon’s grandeur and a gateway to the vibrant Rua Augusta pedestrian street. Its yellow façade and ornate details make it a popular gathering spot and a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.

Read Next: 34 Outstanding Landmarks in Portugal

9. Vibrant Music Scene

Sway through the rhythms and feel the soul-stirring melodies of Lisbon’s vibrant music scene ! 

When it comes to music, Fado is the heart and soul of the city, and you’ll find it pulsating through the atmospheric streets of Alfama. Picture it: an intimate bar, dim lights, decor that hasn’t changed in aeons, sipping on a drink, whilst being swept away by the raw emotions and heartfelt vocals of Fado singers. 

It’s a musical experience that will give you goosebumps. Fully immerse yourself in Lisbon’s unique music scene and let the enchanting sounds of Fado captures your heart and take you on an unforgettable musical journey.

Immerse yourself in the music of the Fado for an intimate performance in a traditional bar in Alfama.

Check Availability: Traditional Fado Performance

10. Fantastic City Views

There’s no lying that Lisbon is a hilly city. I know how much of a workout it felt every time I went up and down them. However, lots of hills mean lots of viewing points! 

Get ready to be blown away by the jaw-dropping city views Lisbon has to offer! The city’s hilly landscape means there are countless lookout points where you can soak in the stunning scenery. Here are the top spots you don’t want to miss:

• Walls of the São Jorge Castle – Get ready to feel like royalty as you gaze upon Lisbon’s rooftops, the sparkling river, and beyond from the ancient castle walls. It’s like stepping into a fairytale!
• Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara -This awesome terrace in the hip Bairro Alto district will take your breath away with its epic views of downtown Lisbon. You’ll see the castle, the river, and a whole lot of Instagram-worthy moments!
• Miradouro das Portas do Sol –  Prepare to have your jaw drop as you take in the panoramic vista of Alfama’s charming streets, the Tagus River, and the majestic National Pantheon. It’s a picture-perfect view that will make you fall in love with Lisbon even more.
• Miradouro de Santa Luzia – Located in the heart of Alfama, this lookout point treats you to a postcard-worthy scene of the neighbourhood’s colourful buildings, tiled roofs, and the glimmering river. It’s pure magic!

From these fantastic viewpoints, you’ll be treated to mind-blowing views that will leave you in awe of Lisbon’s beauty. So grab your camera, find your favourite lookout, and get ready to capture memories that will last a lifetime. They are popular with locals and tourists, with the peak time being at sunset. Trust me, all that hill walking is worth it for the views!

11. Well Connected to the Rest of Portugal

Lisbon is the perfect base to embark on exciting adventures throughout Portugal ! It’s incredibly easy to hop from Lisbon to other incredible destinations like Porto, Evora, and Coimbra.

Simply hop on a comfortable train or one of the many buses, and you’ll be whisked away to Porto in no time. Get ready for breathtaking river views, delightful Port wine tastings, and stunning architecture that will leave you in awe.

If you’re up for some ancient charm, head south to Evora. This UNESCO World Heritage site will transport you back in time with its Roman ruins, medieval vibes, and captivating culture.

And don’t forget to pay a visit to Coimbra. This buzzing student city is known for its vibrant atmosphere and one of Europe’s oldest universities! This is a great destination to mingle with the locals and sock up the lively vibes of a packed social calendar.

12. Lisbon Is Home to the Famous Yellow Trams

One of the things that Lisbon is famous for is the iconic yellow trams. 

The E28 tram takes you on a delightful journey through Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods, giving you a real taste of the city’s vibrant heritage.

Starting from Martim Moniz Square, the tram winds its way through narrow streets, tackling steep hills and meandering through picturesque alleys.

As you ride along, you’ll be treated to a visual feast of old buildings, lively squares, and bustling markets. The clattering of the vintage tram adds to the authenticity, while you soak up the stunning architecture that Lisbon is famous for. 

One of the real highlights of the E28 route is its passage through the narrow streets of Alfama, the city’s oldest district, and then out past the cathedral. 

Because of its popularity with tourists, the E28 tram is a bit of a hotspot for pickpockets. The trams are usually crammed, which makes it ideal for pickpockets to take advantage. If I’m riding on crowded public transport, I carry my backpack in my front and don’t keep anything in my back pockets.    

13. The People Are Friendly and English Is Widely Spoken

Lisbon is a friendly city. The locals here are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making visitors feel right at home.

When it comes to language, you’ll find that English is widely spoken in Lisbon. Many of the locals, especially those in the tourism industry, are fluent in English and can help you out with directions, recommendations, or any queries you might have. 

Even if you can’t speak a word of Portuguese, you can easily get around and have meaningful conversations with the locals.

Read Next: How To Have The Perfect Weekend Break in Lisbon

14. Lisbon Is a Safe City

Like most places in Europe, Lisbon is a safe city. Violent crime is pretty much nonexistent and it’s safe for solo female travellers. The most problematic type of crime here is pick-pocketing – especially in busy tourist areas such as the E28 tram. 

There’s a mild police presence around town – usually, you’ll see them patrolling the streets or in one of the main squares but overall, it’s a safe city.

15. It’s a Walkable City

My preferred way to explore a new city is by foot. And Lisbon is no exception. I found it easy to get to all the main tourist attractions.

But here’s a heads-up: Lisbon is a city of hills, and there’s no denying it! Be prepared for some uphill walks and take comfort in the fact that you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views along the way. 

Lisbon is a wonderfully walkable city , with its charming cobbled streets and pedestrian-friendly areas. So, while the hills may test your calf muscles, they also add to the unique character and beauty of the city. Basically, I used the hill walking as the perfect excuse to balance out all my Pastel de Nata sampling.

I advise wearing shoes with a decent grip! Especially if there had been rain. The cobbles can get very slippery, so take care.  

One of the best ways to get your bearings in a new city is on a guided walking tour . Your local guide will point out all the city highlights as well as useful information. You can then go back at your own pace to visit the places you liked.

16. World-Class Shopping

Lisbon is a great place for some serious retail therapy and you’ll find loads of great shopping options that cater to all tastes and budgets.

In the city centre, there are high-end shopping streets. You’ll find these along Rua Augusta and Avenida da Liberdade. Here’s where you can check out fancy designer brands and if you feel like splashing out, treat yourself to some high-end fashion. 

If you’re after more unique and quirky shops, head to the cool neighbourhoods of Chiado and Baixa. They’re packed with cool independent shops, boutiques, and concept stores selling all sorts of cool stuff, from trendy clothes to handmade crafts. 

And don’t forget to check out LX Factory, an old industrial complex turned creative hub with shops, cafes, and art galleries.

For a taste of local flavour, hit up the city’s bustling markets. The Mercado da Ribeira, aka the Time Out Market, is a must-visit. You can chow down on delicious food and pick up all sorts of local goodies to take back as souvenirs. 

And if you’re into vintage finds and oddball treasures, don’t miss the Feira da Ladra flea market in Alfama. It’s held on Tuesdays and Saturdays and is perfect for rummaging through all sorts of cool stuff.

Why Visit Lisbon – FAQs

So, is Lisbon worth visiting? Yes. 

Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, enjoying the lively nightlife, indulging in mouthwatering food, or simply soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches, Lisbon has something for everyone.

This next section delves into some of the most common questions asked about visiting Lisbon. If you’re in the planning stages of your trip, have a browse through these useful answers.

What Is Lisbon Famous For?

Lisbon is famous for its historical landmarks such as São Jorge Castle and Belém Tower, its vibrant and soulful Fado music, and delicious custard tarts known as Pastéis de Nata. The city is a treasure trove of culture, history, and culinary delights.

How Many Days Do You Need in Lisbon?

To fully experience Lisbon’s highlights and immerse yourself in its charm, it is recommended to spend at least two days in Lisbon. This allows enough time to explore its historical landmarks, wander through its neighbourhoods, savour its culinary delights, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. If you have longer, then there’s certainly enough to see in 3 or 4 days.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Lisbon?

Lisbon is a year round destination. However, the best time to visit Lisbon is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the busiest tourist season of the summer months. 

Is Lisbon Expensive to Visit?

No, it is generally considered to be an affordable city compared to other European capitals. While prices have been rising in recent years, it still offers good value for travellers. Accommodation, dining, and transportation costs are relatively reasonable, making it a budget-friendly destination for exploration and enjoyment.

Is Lisbon Safe for Tourists?

Definitely! Like any popular destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions against pickpocketing. Violent crime rates are low, and with basic safety measures, visitors can enjoy their time in Lisbon without major concerns.

What Is Lisbon Like for Solo Travellers?

Lisbon is a great destination for solo travellers. The city is welcoming and friendly, making it easy to meet fellow travellers, locals and digital nomads. With its walkable streets, vibrant neighbourhoods, and a variety of attractions, solo travellers can explore at their own pace.

Is Belem Tower Worth Visiting?

Yes! Belem Tower is a stunning landmark and one of Lisbon’s most recognizable attractions. Sitting on the banks of the Tagus River. Plus, nearby attractions like the Jeronimos Monastery make for a great day out.

Is Lisbon Worth Visiting in Winter?

Yes! While the weather may be cooler, there are still plenty of sunny days. The city still offers plenty to see and do. Although you may not want to hit the beaches, you can still explore its historical landmarks and gorgeous streets. Plus, with fewer crowds, you can experience a more intimate side of Lisbon during the winter months.

So, Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?

I’ve given you 16 great reasons why you should visit Lisbon.

In a nutshell, Lisbon is definitely worth visiting. It’s got it all: fascinating history, stunning buildings, a lively culture, and mouth-watering food.

Whether you’re into exploring ancient castles, exploring photogenic streets or just relaxing on gorgeous beaches, Lisbon’s got you covered.

So pack your bags, head to Lisbon, and get ready for a city break you won’t forget!

If you’re looking for more reasons on why visit Portugal, then check out these other great articles:

• The Complete 2 Days in Lisbon Itinerary  
• The Ultimate 2 Weeks in Spain and Portugal
• The Most Famous Landmarks in Portugal
• What To See In Lisbon In One Day

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Have a question about planning your Lisbon itinerary? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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