Portugal‘s capital, located on the banks of the Tagus River, Lisbon has a unique blend of ancient history and modernity. We were won over by this city of seven hills, with its exceptional panoramas and incomparable cultural wealth. In this article, we share our 15 reasons to visit this fascinating European capital.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Lisbon worth a visit?
Lisbon is well worth a visit and is one of Europe’s most authentic destinations. We loved this capital. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it combines exceptional gastronomy with a warm atmosphere. The city offers a remarkable diversity of historic monuments, typical neighborhoods, nearby beaches and lively traditions such as Fado. You’ll discover an accessible destination that satisfies all travel tastes, from history buffs to culture buffs to gourmets.
We list the reasons in more detail below. You can also take a look at our selection of the city’s top attractions.
Reason 1 – For the famous Belém Tower
The Belem Tower is one of the most emblematic symbols of Lisbon and Portugal. We were impressed by this 16th-century fortress, which bears witness to the golden age of the Portuguese Great Discoveries. Built between 1515 and 1521 in the Manueline style, it protects the entrance to Lisbon’s port.
Admire the refined architectural details, maritime sculptures and crenellations that majestically overlook the Tagus River. This defensive tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, also offers exceptional panoramic views of the river and is an ideal starting point for exploring the historic district of Belém.
More photos and information in our dedicated article.
WHERE TO STAY IN lisbon
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Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
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See our complete selection of the best hotels in Lisbon (coming soon)
Reason 2 – For Belém’s delicious pastéis de nata
Belém’s authentic pastéis de nata are a must-taste experience during your stay in Lisbon. We loved tasting these delicious pastries in their birthplace. Pastéis de Belém has existed since 1837, according to the original secret recipe of the monks of the Monastery of the Hieronimytes.
These little flans with crisp puff pastry and smooth cream, lightly caramelized on top, will make your mouth water. Enjoy them warm, sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar, accompanied by an espresso. The culinary experience becomes even more authentic when you taste them in the historic building with its traditional azulejos, where the atmosphere transports us to the Portugal of yesteryear.
Reason 3 – For the iconic Monastère des Hiéronimytes
The Hieronymus Monastery is one of the finest examples of Manueline architecture in the world. We were amazed by this 16th-century masterpiece, commissioned by King Manuel I to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s discoveries. Admire the decorative richness of its 300-meter-long façade, adorned with maritime motifs, sculpted ropes and exotic elements brought back from the colonies.
The interior features slender, strikingly beautiful vaulted ceilings, supported by columns with finely crafted capitals. The cloister, a true architectural gem, particularly impressed us with the elegance of its arches and the finesse of its sculptures. The monument also houses the tombs of Vasco da Gama and the poet Luís de Camões.
Reason 4 – For the excursion to Sintra and its fairytale palaces
Sintra, just 30 kilometers from Lisbon, is one of Europe’s most enchanting excursions. We were transported to a romantic world where colorful castles and extravagant palaces nestle in lush vegetation. You’ll discover the Palais de Pena, an architectural fairytale with red and yellow facades perched high above the ground, and the Quinta da Regaleira with its mysterious gardens and initiatory well.
Sintra’s National Palace, recognizable by its conical chimneys, reveals sumptuous interiors decorated with exceptional azulejos. This UNESCO World Heritage city seduced us with its magical atmosphere and welcome coolness in summer, offering a perfect contrast to the hustle and bustle of Lisbon.
Why not plan a day trip from Lisbon? – See prices, photos and availability.
Reason 5 – For the Alfama district, the authentic historic heart of the city
Alfama represents the authentic soul of Lisbon, with its steep cobbled streets and colorful houses clinging to the hills. We loved getting lost in this medieval labyrinth that survived the 1755 earthquake, preserving the atmosphere of old Lisbon. You’ll stroll through narrow alleyways filled with the sounds of fado, discovering flower-filled courtyards and spectacular views of the Tagus River.
Traditions are alive and well. You’ll come across locals hanging their washing out of windows, family-run taverns serving grilled sardines and artisan stalls. We were particularly moved by the evenings when the nostalgic melodies of fado waft from traditional restaurants, creating a unique and moving atmosphere.
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)
Reason 6 – For Fado, the music of the Portuguese soul
Fado is much more than a musical genre; it expresses the Portuguese soul and the famous saudade, that melancholy nostalgia so characteristic of Lusitanian culture. We were deeply moved by these intimate concerts in the fado houses of Alfama, where plaintive voices accompanied by Portuguese guitars create an atmosphere unique in the world.
You’ll experience moments of rare intensity in these authentic settings, where the respectful silence of the audience allows you to fully appreciate the virtuosity of the fadistas. This musical tradition, listed as a UNESCO intangible heritage site since 2011, revealed the full emotional depth of Portuguese culture. Fado evenings in Alfama’s traditional restaurants offer the perfect opportunity to discover this art form while enjoying local cuisine in an intimate setting.
Book your Fado evening now – See prices, photos and availability.
Reason 7 – For its miradouros and panoramic views of the Tagus River
Lisbon’s miradouros are one of the most rewarding pleasures of a visit to the Portuguese capital. We were dazzled by these viewpoints, which offer spectacular panoramas of the city, the Tagus and the April 25th bridge. Each miradouro offers different views: the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte offers a 360° view of the whole city, while the Miradouro de Santa Luzia overlooks the city with its azulejos.
These spaces offered us unforgettable moments of contemplation, especially at sunset when the red-tiled roofs take on golden reflections. The kiosks installed on some miradouros allow you to enjoy a ginja or a coffee while admiring the landscape, creating an authentic experience you won’t forget.
Reason 8 – For the azulejos, a Portuguese decorative art unique in the world
Azulejos are one of Portugal’s most distinctive artistic expressions, making Lisbon a veritable open-air museum. We were fascinated by these hand-painted earthenware tiles that have adorned facades, church interiors, subway stations and public buildings since the 15th century. You’ll admire an impressive diversity of styles, from Moorish-inspired geometric motifs to intricate 18th-century narrative scenes.
The National Azulejo Museum gave us an insight into the evolution of this unique decorative art, from its origins to contemporary creations. These ceramic works transform the city into a permanent gallery where you’ll discover masterpieces on every street corner, creating an incomparable visual identity that is the pride of the people of Lisbon.
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Reason 9 – For the beaches of Cascais and Estoril, the Portuguese Riviera
Cascais and Estoril, also known as the Portuguese Riviera, can be reached in just a 40-minute drive from Lisbon. We enjoyed this seaside getaway that combines elegance, history and the pleasures of the sea in an unspoilt setting. You’ll discover Cascais, a former fishing village turned chic seaside resort, with its sandy beaches, fish restaurants and colorful market.
Estoril, renowned for its legendary casino and manicured gardens, offers a unique Belle Époque atmosphere. These resorts seduced us with their ability to preserve their authenticity despite their international renown. The perfect excursion consists of enjoying the beaches in the morning, lunching on fresh seafood and exploring the historic centers in the afternoon, before returning to Lisbon at sunset.
Reason 10 – For the bohemian atmosphere of Bairro Alto and its trendy bars
Bairro Alto is Lisbon’s liveliest nightlife district and has been the epicenter of its bohemian life for decades. We were won over by the unique atmosphere of its narrow streets, which are transformed every evening into a veritable street festival. You’ll discover hundreds of tiny bars with varied atmospheres, from traditional taverns to creative cocktail bars, creating an incomparable nocturnal mosaic.
We were fascinated by the district’s ability to blend all generations and nationalities in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Evenings start early with aperitifs in local tasquinhas and continue late in live music clubs. Here, you’ll enjoy the authentic nightlife experience as you stroll from bar to bar, drink in hand, to the rhythm of the lively conversations that spill out onto the cobblestones.
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Reason 11 – For the famous vintage streetcars, especially line 28
Lisbon’s historic streetcars, particularly line 28, offer one of the most charming urban transport experiences in Europe. We loved travelling in these century-old vehicles with their patinated woodwork, which climb the steep hills of the capital to a concert of authentic creaks. You’ll tour the city’s most picturesque districts from the comfort of these vintage wagons.
This legendary line gave us easy access to the main tourist sites. The journey becomes an attraction in itself. Admire the colorful facades, cobbled streets and city views from open windows, in the old-fashioned atmosphere that makes these historic streetcars so incomparably charming.
Reason 12 – For maritime heritage and the era of the Great Discoveries
Lisbon is the ideal starting point for understanding the glorious era of the Great Portuguese Discoveries, which changed the history of the world. We were impressed by the city’s rich maritime heritage, concentrated mainly in the Belém district. The Maritime Museum retraces the legendary expeditions of Vasco da Gama, Pedro Álvares Cabral and other Portuguese navigators, with reconstructions of caravels and period maps.
The Monument to the Discoveries particularly impressed us, with its imposing silhouette reaching out towards the Tagus, a reminder of the boldness of those sailors who opened up the trade routes to Asia and America. This historical dimension lends a unique depth to the visit, enabling visitors to understand how this small European nation dominated the seas for centuries.
Reason 13 – For Portuguese gastronomy and authentic markets
The local gastronomy reveals all the richness of Portuguese cuisine, influenced by the spices and flavours brought back from the former colonies. We enjoyed the variety of specialties, from grilled fresh fish to traditional simmered dishes like cozido à portuguesa. You’ll explore authentic markets like the Mercado da Ribeira, now Time Out Market, which brings together the city’s best chefs in a single historic hall.
We were particularly enthusiastic about the traditional markets, with their colorful bustle and stalls of fresh produce: Atlantic fish, exotic fruits, regional cheeses and Portuguese wines. This culinary experience is perfectly complemented by a visit to the tascas, small family-run taverns where you can enjoy petiscos (Portuguese tapas) accompanied by a vinho verde in a friendly, authentic atmosphere.
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Reason 14 – For its internationally renowned museums
Lisbon is home to some of the world’s leading cultural institutions, which will greatly enrich your stay. We were impressed by the quality and diversity of the collections on offer, from ancient art to the most daring contemporary creations. You’ll discover the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, which boasts one of Europe’s finest private collections, ranging from Egyptian art to Impressionist works.
The National Museum of Ancient Art revealed masterpieces of Portuguese painting, including the famous Saint-Vincent Panels attributed to Nuno Gonçalves. We were particularly impressed by the quality of their modern scenography, which perfectly showcases exceptional works of art. Lisbon’s range of museums will satisfy all artistic tastes and deepen your understanding of Portuguese and European culture.
Reason 15 – For the eclectic architecture of the historic center
Lisbon’s historic center boasts an exceptional wealth of architecture that bears witness to the city’s evolution over the centuries. We were fascinated by the mosaic of styles that coexist harmoniously, from Romanesque remains to the most audacious contemporary creations. Admire the elegant pombaline architecture of Baixa, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake according to avant-garde urban planning principles, as well as the sumptuous rococo and neoclassical palaces.
This diversity was particularly striking in the Chiado district, where Art Nouveau facades, Baroque churches and modern shopping malls stand side by side. Lisbon’s architecture tells the story of the capital’s eventful history: destruction, reconstruction, foreign influences and local innovations create an incomparably rich urban ensemble that you’ll discover at every turn.
Some disadvantages of a trip to Lisbon
Heavy traffic and traffic jams
Lisbon suffers from particularly heavy traffic, especially at rush hour, when jams paralyze the city’s main thoroughfares. We’ve found that getting around by car can be very slow, particularly when crossing bridges or accessing the historic center. You’ll need to plan for longer-than-expected travel times, and give preference to public transport or walking for your urban trips. This is due to the city’s hilly topography and the concentration of traffic on a few main roads, creating recurring bottlenecks.
Parking
Finding a parking space in Lisbon is often a challenge, especially in the historic and tourist districts. We have observed that available spaces are scarce and often at a premium, with high prices in the city center. You’ll need to be patient to find a free space, and budget accordingly for parking. Alfama’s narrow lanes and steep inclines further complicate the search, making it more convenient to use public transport to explore the city.
Pollution
Like many European capitals, Lisbon suffers from air quality problems linked to automobile traffic and port activities. We’ve noticed that some busy roads have significant levels of air pollution, particularly in summer. You may feel this discomfort on hot, windless days, when pollutants stagnate in the atmosphere. Fortunately, the proximity of the Tagus and the sea breeze mitigate this phenomenon, and the city’s many green spaces offer more breathable refuges.
The weather
Although Lisbon enjoys a generally pleasant climate, summers can be very hot, with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C. In July and August, high temperatures can make outdoor visits uncomfortable. You’ll need to adjust your schedule to avoid the hottest hours of the day, and bring sun protection and adequate hydration with you. Winter can also bring surprises, with heavy rains and a sometimes violent ocean wind that significantly cools temperatures.
Social contrast
Lisbon has visible social inequalities between renovated tourist districts and more modest outlying areas. We observed striking contrasts between the historic sectors that are valued and certain working-class neighborhoods that are struggling to benefit from the development of tourism. You’ll discover a complex urban reality where rapid gentrification and social insecurity coexist, a phenomenon accentuated by tourism-related real estate pressure. This situation sometimes creates local tensions that need to be taken into account to understand the contemporary issues facing the Portuguese capital.
The tourist influx
Lisbon’s growing success as a tourist destination means that the city’s iconic sites are extremely popular, especially during the peak summer season. We’ve found that main attractions like the Belem Tower or tramway 28 can be saturated, creating long queues and a less pleasant experience. You’ll need to plan your visits early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the heaviest crowds. This popularity has also transformed some authentic neighborhoods into highly touristy areas, altering their traditional atmosphere and significantly raising the price of local services.
The rates
The boom in tourism has led to a significant rise in prices in Lisbon’s most visited sectors, particularly for accommodation and catering. We’ve noticed that rates in tourist areas can be considerably higher than in residential areas.
You’ll find wide price differences between restaurants in the historic center and those frequented by locals. Tourism inflation also affects services such as cabs and certain activities, requiring a larger-than-expected budget to take full advantage of the destination without compromising the quality of the experience.
How to get to Lisbon
Lisbon is located on Portugal’s west coast, with excellent international connections.
- Humberto Delgado airport, just 7 kilometers from the city center, handles direct flights from major European capitals and also offers intercontinental connections. The red metro links the airport directly to the center in 20 minutes.
- By train, Lisbon can be reached from Madrid on the Lusitania night train or from Porto on the fast Alfa Pendular trains.
- The car remains an attractive option for exploring the region, with modern freeways linking the capital to other Portuguese cities and to Spain via the A6.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Portugal
- Best of
Things to do in Portugal (coming soon)
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
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Portugal’s most beautiful beaches (coming soon)
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When to go? (coming soon)
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- The must-dos
Things to do in Lisbon (coming soon)
Things to do in the Algarve
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