Bordered by the Tagus River, Lisbon is a city of exceptional heritage. Its steep hills, historic districts, fascinating museums, gastronomy and festive atmosphere have won us over. The city’s rich culture and authentic charm will win you over. Follow us as we explore the Portuguese capital and discover its treasures!
Read our article to find out things to do in Lisbon and find all our favorite activities to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Enjoy the liveliness of Chiado and Bairro Alto
Why visit?
Chiado and Bairro Alto are two of Lisbon’s most emblematic districts. We were charmed by the liveliness of the squares and alleyways, meeting places for tourists and locals alike. You’ll come across street musicians, stumble across pretty squares, admire buildings covered in colorful tiles and you can even go shopping. It’s also pleasant to linger at cafe tables shaded by purple jacarandas. Some are historic, and in the past played host to great Portuguese authors such as the poet Fernando Pessoa. If you like, you can also enjoy the area’s lively nightlife. Both districts are home to interesting museums and important monuments.
Practical advice
- Streets can be busy and noisy
- Steep slopes
- Be careful, the black and white cobblestones are slippery.
- Take a tuk-tuk if you don’t want to walk
- Baixa-Chiado metro station ideally located for access to these districts
- Numerous cafés, bars and restaurants
- Parking is difficult, so use public transport instead.
2. Taste Belém’s pastéis de nata, but that’s not all!
Why visit?
Pasteis de nata, those delicious cream tarts, are an essential Portuguese specialty. The Pasteis de Nata in Belém are among the most famous! We were astonished to learn that their secret recipe comes from the monks of the Hieronymite Monastery next door. Although this Belém pastelaria is the best-known, other establishments in the city offer succulent variations. For example, we liked the preparations at Alcôa, on Ivens Street, or Confeitaria Nacional, on Praça da Figueira, where there are fewer queues!
Practical advice
- Very long queues at the best addresses
- Price: €1.50 to €3 per pastéis de nata
- Don’t hesitate to try other pastries that you find appetizing.
WHERE TO STAY IN lisbon
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
Our selection coming soon
Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Lisbon (coming soon)
3. Discover the Belem Tower
Why visit?
A must-see in Lisbon, the Belém Tower offers magnificent panoramic views of the Tagus River and the Belém district. Built in the early 16th century by King Manuel, this fortress is a masterpiece of what is rightly called “Manueline” architecture. We were fascinated by the carved details of its turrets, especially the rhinoceros figures, which are said to be the first representation of this animal in European art! The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A true architectural gem, in our opinion.
More photos and information in our dedicated article.
Practical advice
- Time required: allow around 1 hour to visit the interior of the tower.
- Difficulties: long queues and limited access for people with reduced mobility
- Streetcar E15 stop Lg Princesa 350m from the monument
- Bus lines 728, 729, 751, 760
- Nearby parking lots
- Opening hours: open daily (except Mondays) from May to September, 10am to 6:30pm, and from October to April, 10am to 5:30pm.
- Price: full price €8
- See the latest news on the official website here
- Free entry if you have the Lisboa Card, which gives you access to public transport and many museums.
- Book your tickets online to save time!
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4. Listen to Fado and eat grilled sardines in Alfama
Why visit?
Alfama is one of Lisbon’s oldest districts and has retained its typical charm. Here, the spirit of the capital vibrates, at least in part! We were seduced by the lively atmosphere that reigns in its pretty alleyways, where you can listen to fado, the traditional Portuguese music. At the foot of the picturesque Largo do Chafariz de Dentro square is a museum dedicated to this type of music, which we visited. In Alfama’s small restaurants, you can enjoy crispy grilled sardines, a local specialty. The district is also home to the Cathedral da Sé and Saint-Georges Castle. Both popular and touristy, the area also hosts major festivities in June, the Festas de Lisboa. We were there then!
Practical advice
- Narrow, steeply sloping neighborhood, which can make walking and circulating difficult
- São Jorge” metro station or tramway line 28
- Numerous typical restaurants
- Parking is very tricky, so use public transport instead.
- Possibility of attending a fado show
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Portugal
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
5. Fall under the spell of the Couvent des Carmes
Why visit?
During our visit to the Couvent des Carmes, we were struck by the beauty of this site, located in one of the city’s most charming squares. Founded in the 14th century, the convent was severely damaged by the terrible earthquake of 1755, leaving only a roofless church! In these superb ruins, you’ll discover arches, columns and fine stonework. We were intrigued by the curious archaeological museum inside. It features artifacts from the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods, as well as pre-Columbian mummies. In summer, night-time sound and light shows take place in the open-air nave, offering a poetic experience!
See more photos in our dedicated article.
Practical advice
- Duration: 1 hour
- Located in the heart of Bairro Alto
- Access: approx. 300m from Rossio and Baixa-Chiado metro stations, 5min walk from the Chiado stop on the E15 tramway, 100m from the Santa Justa lift.
- Opening hours: open daily (except Sunday) from November to April, 10 am to 6 pm, May to October, 10 am to 7 pm
- Price: €7 full price
- See the latest news on the official website here
- Book your ticket for Lisbon Under the Stars, a magical show on the walls and vaults of the convent
6. Feast on local specialities in fine restaurants
Why visit?
In Lisbon, we really enjoyed ourselves. The city’s culinary offer is mainly focused on Portuguese cuisine, but what a delight! We invite you to try the local specialties, whether made with products from the sea or from the land. The famous bacalhau, “cod” in Portuguese, is a must, as are grilled octopus, suckling pig and sardines. Wine lovers won’t be disappointed either. The capital’s establishments bring together the finest wines from the Douro and Alentejo regions. For a unique gastronomic experience, we recommend one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Encanto, which dazzled our taste buds. For a more sober but just as tasty tasting experience, turn to the Restaurant Prado or its wine bar, where typical dishes are transformed into delicious Portuguese tapas.
Practical advice
- Book in advance
- Restaurants generally open at 12:30 or even 1:00 p.m. for lunch and 7:30 p.m. for dinner, not before!
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7. Take the Santa Justa lift and tramway line 28
Why visit?
The Santa Justa Elevator and tramway line 28 are iconic means of transport in Lisbon. We had a lot of fun testing them! The Santa Justa Elevator, designed by Gustave Eiffel’s pupil Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard, is a real architectural feat, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. It’s also very handsome, with an aesthetic reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower in Paris! As for tramway line 28, it will take you through Lisbon’s narrow, steep streets, passing through such legendary landmarks as Alfama and Chiado. In fact, this little bright yellow wagon with its woody 1930s interior is featured on many postcards. Take a photo of it, it’s very photogenic. And in our opinion, it’s a unique way to discover the Portuguese capital and all its historic districts.
Practical advice
- Difficulties: expect queues
- Find timetables and tramway stops here
- The Santa Justa Elevator is in the Chiado district
- Opening hours: Elevator Santa Justa is open from 7am to 9pm, streetcar 28 runs from 6am to 10.30pm.
- More info on the tourist office website here
- Elevator access is free with the Lisboa Card!
8. Marvel at the Hieronymus Monastery
Why visit?
Located in the Belém district, the Hieronymites Monastery is one of Lisbon’s architectural gems. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century Manueline building made a deep impression on us. Built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s return from India, the site houses the tombs of several famous kings and personalities. Its magnificent cloisters, rich sculptural decoration and spectacular church will immerse you in the mystical atmosphere of medieval Portugal. We were struck by the beauty and finesse of the details, particularly of the extraordinary south portal.
Practical advice
- Duration: between 1 and 2 hours
- Challenges: potentially long queues
- Bus lines 727, 728, 729 to Mosteiro Jerónimos stop
- Tramway 15E
- Public parking lots nearby
- Price: €12
- Opening hours: open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- More info on the tourist office website here
- Free entry with the Lisboa Card!
- Book your ticket now to save time
9. Contemplating the colorful tiles of the Museu do Azulejo
Why visit?
The Museu Nacional do Azulejo, or National Tile Museum, lets you discover one of Portugal’s most emblematic arts. In a beautiful monastery, we admired a unique collection of azulejos, the painted tiles that adorn many facades throughout the country. Exceptional pieces trace the history of Portugal from the 15th to the 20th century through their patterns and colors. We were captivated by the golden chapel and its white and blue frescoes, as well as by the huge fresco on the top floor showing the city of Lisbon in panoramic format. It’s fun to try and find the monuments you’ve visited!
Practical advice
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Located outside the city center, to the east of Lisbon
- Buses 742, 203, 210, 718 and 759 stop in front of the museum
- A pretty cafeteria set in a garden inside the museum
- Public parking lots nearby
- Price: €8 full price
- Opening hours: Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, closed on Mondays.
- More info on the official Tourist Office website here
- Free admission with Lisboa Card!
10. Taking in the sights at Lisbon’s São Jorge Castle
Why visit?
Perched on the Alfama hill, São Jorge Castle offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Portuguese capital. We were seduced by its imposing ruins, slender towers and shady gardens. Built in the 5th century, this Moorish castle has stood the test of time and invasion, bearing witness to the town’s tumultuous history. From this privileged vantage point, you can also admire red-tiled roofs, emblematic monuments and the Tagus River, which winds its way through the city. We were also amused by the château’s “camera obscura”, an optical instrument made up of mirrors and lenses that projects an image of Lisbon onto a concave mirror. In our opinion, a must-see visit to capture the capital in all its splendor.
Practical advice
- Duration: 1h30 for the visit of the castle and its gardens.
- Difficulties: access to the chateau can be physically demanding due to steep gradients, high footfall
- Minibus 37 or streetcar 28
- Parking can be difficult, so use public transport or tuk-tuks instead.
- Price: €15
- Opening hours: open daily from 9am to 9pm (closes at 6pm in winter)
- More info on the official website here
- Book your ticket now!
11. Admire the Cathedral da Sé
Why visit?
The Cathedral da Sé, also known as Sé de Lisboa, is one of Lisbon’s oldest churches. Right from the outset, we found it very beautiful. Built in the 12th century, it has been through many historical periods, hence its composite architecture, blending Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles. Inside, magnificent gilded altarpieces, elaborate stalls and colorful stained-glass windows lend the building a sacred atmosphere. Part of the building has been the subject of archaeological excavations, where the rough stone contrasts with the finesse of the sculpted decorations. You’ll also be impressed by the cathedral’s treasure trove of paintings, manuscripts and relics.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 30min to 1h
- Difficulties: it can get crowded
- Located in the Alfama district
- The free public elevator Elevador da Se saves you a long climb.
- Tramway 28 will drop you off in front of the cathedral
- Price: €5 full price
- Opening hours: open daily from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm, with flexible times on mass days
- More info on the official website here
- Reserve your tickets in advance!
12. Immerse yourself in Portugal’s royal history at the Palais National d’Ajuda
Why visit?
At the Palais National d’Ajuda, we took a journey through Portugal’s royal history. Built in the 19th century, this imposing palace was the residence of the kingdom’s last monarchs before the proclamation of the republic in 1910. We were fascinated by the richness of the interior décor, with its sumptuous salons, tapestries and decorative arts collections. The tour will plunge you into the intimate life of the sovereigns, from bathrooms to bedrooms. We particularly enjoyed the winter garden with its floral decorations, the sumptuous reception room and the astonishing marble room, covered floor-to-ceiling in marble.
Practical advice
- Duration: 1h30
- Bus 760, 742, 771, 729
- Price: 8€ for the first time
- Opening hours: open daily (except Wednesday) from 10am to 6pm
- More info on the tourist office website here
- Free admission with Lisboa Card
- Book your ticket now!
13. Getting lost in the Musée Calouste-Gulbenkian’s art collection
Why visit?
Located in the north of Lisbon, the Calouste-Gulbenkian Museum houses a unique and eclectic collection of over 6,000 works of art, ranging from antiquity to the early 20th century. We were fascinated by the variety of works on display, including masterpieces by Rembrandt and Velasquez! The exceptional series of art deco jewelry and glassware by René Lalique, including the famous Libellule pendant, which concludes the permanent exhibition, also drew our admiration. What’s more, the museum is a pleasure to visit, with its clean-lined architecture and setting in a large landscaped garden.
Practical advice
- Duration: 2 hours for the permanent collection and 3 hours for the temporary exhibition and garden.
- Near São Sebastião (blue and red) and Praça de Espanha (blue) metro stations
- Museum cafeteria
- Checkrooms opposite the exhibition exit, so don’t forget your belongings (it’s happened to us!).
- Price: €16 for the whole site including temporary exhibition and €14 for the collections
- Opening hours: open daily (except Tuesdays and public holidays) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- More info on the official website here
- 20% discount with Lisboa Card
- Book your ticket now to save time!
14. Take a boat trip along the Tagus River
Why visit?
Lisbon is bordered by the Tagus estuary, and it’s great fun to explore the city along the river. Whether on the famous docks, by cable car, ferry or private boat! If you choose to take a short cruise, you’re sure to be seduced by the breathtaking views over the city. In particular, we recommend doing it at sunset. You can admire the very modern silhouette of the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology), the superb Torrre de Belém, the statue of Christ Cristo Rei or pass under the 25 de Abril bridge. Private cruises can offer Portuguese wine tastings, which can make for a romantic outing!
Practical advice
- The main ferry stop is next to Cais do Sodré
- Buy the Navegante card at railway stations to travel by ferry
- Take a trip on a vintage boat
- Take a catamaran tour at sunset
15. City views from the Miradouros
Why visit?
Known as the city of seven hills, Lisbon boasts numerous viewpoints, called “miradouros” in Portuguese. During our stay, we enjoyed the exceptional panoramic views that make the capital so special. Visit the miradouros da Graça, São Pedro de Alcântara or do Recolhimento to enjoy the unique scenery of the city’s rooftops, historic monuments and river. We found the atmosphere particularly romantic at the Miradour de Santa Luzia, with its azulejos and colonnades.
Practical advice
- Take a tuk-tuk to different viewpoints if you don’t feel like walking.
- There are miradouros all over the city
DISCOVER Lisbon
- Things to do in Lisbon (coming soon)
- Best hotels (coming soon)
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
- Best museum in Lisbon (coming soon)
- Itineraries (coming soon)
Things to do in Lisbon: other ideas
Other museums in Lisbon
Lisbon has a particularly rich cultural offering! Here are our suggestions for other museums to visit:
- Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC/CCB)
- Fado Museum
- Museum of Antique Art
- Fondation d’Orient
- Chiado Museum
- Museum of Archaeology
Other churches and monasteries in Lisbon
Other churches are also worth a visit. We advise you:
- São Vicente Monastery
- Estrela Basilica
- Nossa Senhora da Graça Church
- São Roque Church
Other beaches in Lisbon
Lisbon is close to many beaches. Along the coast to the west of the city, they are easily accessible by train to Cascais from Cais do Sodré station, or by ferry to Costa da Caparica.
- Dafundo and Quebrada da Cruz beaches, close by but not the most beautiful.
- Praia de Carcavalos, very large and ideal for surfing, sports, swimming or walking.
- Cascais and Estoril beaches, famous and quite pretty
- Costa da Caparica beaches, on the other shore
Things to do in Lisbon with children
We saw plenty of things to do with children in Lisbon. Many venues offer family-friendly activities. For example, we recommend the city’s Oceanário aquarium . Right next door is the Pavilhão do Conhecimento – Ciência Viva, which offers plenty of fun activities for youngsters. A visit to Castelo São Jorge and its camera oscura, an amazing optical system of mirrors, is also a must for the whole family! The Museum of Art Architecture and Technology (MAAT) is also an option. Games and activities are planned for children throughout the exhibitions. Finally, why not visit the Musée des Carosses, which exhibits vehicles straight out of fairy tales?
Things to do in Lisbon when it rains
Although Lisbon is often sunny, it occasionally rains. Don’t panic, there’s lots to do! In case of rain, we recommend a visit to one of the city’s many museums. You can also plan to attend a fado show, the typical Portuguese music. Finally, why not immerse yourself in the world of marine life at Lisbon’s Oceanário aquarium?
Excursions around Lisbon
We had some great excursions around the capital! Here are our suggestions:
- Visit Sintra, its enchanting palaces and lush gardens, as well as Cascais, the seaside jewel of the Portuguese Riviera – See prices, photos and availability
- Escape to Sesimbra and Arrabida Park – see organized tours (kayaking, dolphins, caves on the program)
Useful tips for visiting Lisbon
Where is Lisbon?
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is located on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. It stretches over seven hills along the estuary of the Tagus River. The city is divided into different districts with contrasting atmospheres, from the historic center of Alfama to more modern areas such as Parque das Nações and Belém.
- Lisbon to Porto = 3h drive
- Lisbon to Cascais = 40min drive
- Lisbon to Sintra = 40min drive
- Lisbon to Sesimbra = 1h
Here’s a map to help you find your way around Lisbon:
How to get to Lisbon
- By plane: Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado international airport is the country’s largest, with direct connections to major European and international cities.
- By train: Lisbon’s rail network connects it to the rest of the country and to neighboring Spain.
- By car: Lisbon can be reached by car, and is served by numerous freeways.
Parking in Lisbon
Parking can be a problem in Lisbon’s historic center, due to the uneven topography and heavy traffic. We advise you to:
- Favour public parking lots, which are often more affordable than private ones.
- Find out about paid parking zones (Zona Verde) and current rates.
- Avoid parking in the narrow streets of the city center, as you risk being ticketed or having your car towed away.
- Consider taking public transport, a much more convenient way to get around Lisbon. The Lisboa Card gives you access to it as well as to many museums!
- If you’re renting a car, check that your accommodation has parking facilities. That’s the case for some hotels!
Getting around Lisbon
There are so many ways to get around Lisbon! We advise you:
- The Lisboa Card, which gives access to the public transport network (buses, streetcars, metro, elevators).
- Walking, even though the city is steep, is a pleasure.
- Hop On Hop Off, the multi-stop buses that take you around the city
- Tuk-tuks are an easy way to see the city, but prices vary depending on the driver.
- Cabs, which are inexpensive and provide quick access to more distant destinations.
Where to eat in Lisbon
Lisbon is bursting with good addresses. We had a wonderful time! Here are a few of our favorites:
- Restaurant Prado or its Wine Bar: a cuisine that magnifies simple traditional dishes with local ingredients and surprising twists.
- Encanto Restaurant: this Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant offers a delicious and unique gastronomic experience.
- Restaurant O Frade in Belém serves specialties from the Alentejo region. It’s tasty, typical and bistronomic!
Visiting Lisbon in winter
In our opinion, Lisbon is a pleasant and colorful destination all year round, even in winter! Temperatures remain mild, around 15°C, and sunshine is frequent. Tourist sites are less crowded, so you can enjoy your visits more serenely and avoid long queues. If you come in December, you can also take advantage of the Christmas lights and seasonal markets. Last but not least, hotel offers are more attractive and affordable!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Portugal
- Best of
Things to do in Portugal (coming soon)
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
Most beautiful towns and villages (coming soon)
Portugal’s most beautiful beaches (coming soon)
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in Portugal (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
Where to stay in Portugal (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Things to do in Lisbon (coming soon)
Things to do in the Algarve
Things to do in Porto (coming soon)
Things to do in Sintra (coming soon)
