Lisbon is experiencing a renaissance, with its popularity increasing and culture flourishing. It has firmly established itself on the tourist radar, up there with Berlin, Paris, and Budapest. Comparisons aside, Lisbon is a unique city to visit, where old and new merge to offer a city for all, all year round.
Historical remnants sit comfortably alongside bursts of colorful tiled houses, dreamy cafes, and street art. Do you like the beach? You are sorted. Do you fancy a day trip? Sintra is an easy option. Enjoy variety? Each of Lisbon’s neighbors has its own identity to discover.
With so much to do in Lisbon, you can easily spend a long weekend here and still have plenty left to explore. So, where should you begin? Here are 15 Lisbon must-dos to add to your itinerary, suitable for most budgets.
1. SUNSET AT THE PORTAS DO SOL VIEWPOINT
The Portas do Sol is easily reachable from the city center, or hop on the No.28 tram mentioned below to reach it. Grab some refreshments, take a seat, and enjoy panoramic views over the city.
Frequented by locals and tourists alike, Portas do Sol is a popular spot. However, it is worth braving potential crowds due to its beautiful views, which are especially epic at sunset. Orange hues and warm tones turn the city golden, reflecting Lisbon in all its glory from this viewpoint.
Tips:
Too busy for you?
1: Nossa Senhora do Monte Belvedere is located in a churchyard and offers some of the highest and most incredible views over the city. Alternatively, research one of the many other ‘miradouros’ (terraces) for a quiet sunset spot.
2: Near Portas Dd Sol is the ‘Lisbon Story’ Comics tunnel. This mural, painted by Nuno Saraiva, portrays Lisbon’s history. If you are facing the river at Portas do Sol, take the staircase to its right. This is Rua Norberto de Araújo, a staircase leading down into the Alfama district.
Walk down a handful of steps and keep an eye out for this archway on your left. You will not be disappointed.
2. TAKE A RIDE ON THE NO.28
You soon realize why trams are a thing in Lisbon. After all, it is known as the city of seven hills, and there are certainly a few cobblestone streets that challenge even the most seasoned walker. Of course, the No. 28 is popular for the novelty, but it also saves your legs a journey or two.
This is why this 1930s yellow tram is still going strong, navigating hills and turns that modern trams would quiver at the sight of. A bonus is that it is a cheap and cheerful experience offering a way to visit many Lisbon sights. It passes through some of the city’s main tourist areas, such as Graca, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela.
Tips:
1: Purchase tickets at a metro station as this is cheaper.
2: A 24-hour ticket was around 6 euros at the time of travel. If you plan to use public transport often, consider purchasing a reusable Viva card to ‘zap’ in and out.
3: Try to go early or late to avoid the queues that also know catching this tram is a good idea!
4: Start at the bottom and go uphill. Martim Moniz is the first stop, but consider a latter stop to avoid crowds, especially during the day.
5: Watch out for pickpockets on all public transport.
3. TAPAS AND evening adventures in barrio alto
Barrio Alto is a neighborhood that comes alive at night thanks to its proximity to the city center and the various cuisines on offer. As there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, just wander around the narrow streets to discover hidden bars and delicious food. You can also ask locals or your Lisbon accommodation host for their recommendations.
Tips:
1: Are you interested in listening to some traditional Portuguese Fado music? Do your research to find out the most authentic locations in Barrio Alto. There are also locations where you can enjoy this music for free.
2: Do you want to try a traditional dish in Lisbon? Try bacalhau (salted codfish) or the sweet liqueur ginjinha made from sour cherries, with the option of having it in a chocolate cup. The Lisbon vegetarian scene is also growing, so you can enjoy traditional dishes with a vegetarian twist.
4. get lost in the different neighborhoods
The best way to orientate yourself to Lisbon is to wander. If you get lost, locals will direct you, or you have the option of finding a nearby metro line. Offline phone maps such as Maps.Me also work well.
Some of the popular neighborhoods to visit in Lisbon are as follows:
Alfama
Alfama is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon. It is characterized by steep streets and winding roads full of galleries and shops, with traditional trams regularly passing through.
This is where the Portas do Sol viewpoint is, the No.28 tram, São Jorge Castle, and many of the picturesque Lisbon streets that grace the covers of travel guides and social media platforms.
Barrio Alto
As noted above, this is home to a lively bar and food scene. Along with the food options, the Miradouro de Santa Catarina offers views over the city, and the picturesque tram Elevador da Bica passes through here.
Chiado and Baxia neighborhoods
Carmo Covent sits between Chiado and Barrio Alto. Chiado is a popular shopping and theatre district. Additionally, it is home to historic monuments and museums such as the National Museum of Contemporary Art.
Also downtown is nearby Baxia, which leads to the Tagus River and Praça Do Comércio. This is a commercial district with wide shopping boulevards and restaurants, which can be tougher on the wallet.
Príncipe Real
Often named ‘the trendiest neighborhood in Lisbon,’ Príncipe Real is home to a multitude of bars, including ‘Lost in’ and ‘Pavilhão Chinês,’ with impressive views over the city. Despite its recent rise to the spotlight, it maintains its local vibe, with plenty of gardens and other spots to relax.
Tips:
1: Download offline maps to pin your favorite spots and find your way.
2: Along with the ‘pink’ street and the various ‘miradouros’ terraces, Passeio das Tágides offers nice views of the marina. Consider walking or cycling around here.
Also, consider visiting the stairs of São Cristóvão for street art, the Bica elevator for the famous yellow tram, and its city backdrop.
Visit Rua da Galé for colorful houses, Travessa Do Paradíso for a nice view of the Pantheon, and Calçada Do Duque. The latter is a flight of steps with restaurants and bunting, linking Barrio Alto to downtown. The best part is that it offers the perfect view of the castle and the city below.
Avenida da Liberdade is the main leafy street through Lisbon, with a tiled boulevard and plenty of shade.
5. walk down the pink street
Yes, there is a pink street, also known as ‘Rua Nova do Carvalho.’ Whilst it is most photographed in the day, it is the night where it shines. Once the red light district, it now plays host to many bars and nightclubs around this area. Try a few of the many cocktail bars, or try a theme night at Europa. Alternatively, check out the Music Box for live acts.
Tip
1: The later it gets, the busier it gets. So, decide on what atmosphere you would like to experience while visiting Lisbon.
6. take some ‘time out’ at the market
The Mercado de Ribeira (Time Out Market) is the perfect spot to try different Portuguese cuisines, such as croquettes and pasteis de natas. Not your cup of tea? There are also pizzas, hamburgers, sushi, and much more to choose from, thanks to the 24 restaurants, all handpicked by the Time Out Portuguese team.
It is the first Time Out food hall of its kind, which opened in 2014 and remains a top place to visit in Lisbon. Consequently, it gets busy in the evenings, but grab a drink from one of the eight bars, find a seat on one of the long tables, and soak in the atmosphere, which often includes live music acts.
Tips:
1: The nearest metro is the Cais de Sobre.
2: Go at opening time for a pastry and coffee to avoid the crowds.
3: It is not the cheapest food option in Lisbon, but worth experiencing due to the range of choices and unique atmosphere.
7. indulge in some tile (azujelos) admiration
Yes, Lisbon offers ubiquitous tile goals. There is even an Azujelos museum if you want to commit. Alternatively, have a wander around districts such as Alfama to happen across tile-covered buildings.
Some of the most noteworthy spots are:
- Campo de Santa Clara near the Pantheon
- Garden Quinta dos Azulejos
- Travessa Da Arrochela
- Fábrica Viúva Lamego (Avenida Almirante Reis)
There are also many art galleries and museums to research, including a Contemporary Art and Ancient Art museum.
Tip:
Follow this tile walk for some of the best tile goals around central Lisbon, sourced from the blog What if We Walked.
8. VISIT the LX FACTORY
LX factory is a creative initiative converting old factory buildings from 1846 into a collection of awesome restaurants, creative office spaces, exhibitions, street art, and trendy shops such as Pura Cal. There is even a LX flea market on Sundays.
Have brunch at Café na Fábrica before wandering around the unique Ler Devagar bookshop. Also, there is decent coffee and cake to be enjoyed here.
Alternatively, visit later in the day for food at one of the restaurants, such as A Mesa or Cantina, then dessert at LXeeseCake (delicious cheesecake). Finish up with drinks at the rooftop bar Rio Maravilha, with sunset views over Ponte 25 de Abril bridge.
Tips:
1: Check out the nearby Village Underground creative space made out of maritime containers.
2: Combine this must-do in Lisbon with another, checking out Torre de Belém.
3: From the city center, it takes around 30-40 minutes to walk here. Alternatively, catch a tram (15/15E at the time of travel). Various buses, including the 714 and 720, also stop near here. Calvario is the nearest tram stop to the LX Factory.
4: Check out LX’s website for information on any upcoming events and exhibitions.
9. spend a day exploring colorful Sintra
Sintra is a royal retreat full of colorful palaces, magical gardens, and rich green hills, which offer some serene hiking trails and rock climbing opportunities. Another reason for its popularity is that it’s an easy day trip, so it is high on many people’s Lisbon must-dos.
Alternatively, you can choose to spend two or more days here. Most people visit Palácio Nacional, Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish castle during a day trip to Sintra.
Recommended Sintra walking route:
Follow the signs and walking route maps given by tourist information near Sintra train station. Overall, it is easily navigable, but some paths can be overgrown.
From the station, head up to Palácio Nacional and decide whether to admire it from the exterior or explore its interior.
Then head to Quinta da Regaleira. There is so much to discover, from underground caves to the mystical well with winding staircases to its base. You could spend a few hours exploring the incredible gardens and palace.
From here, it takes around an hour to reach the brightly colored Pena palace. It is quite a walk, but the perfect way to escape the crowds and enjoy Sintra’s nature. From here, it is a short 15-minute walk to Moorish Castle.
Tip:
1: Whilst there are plenty of food options in the center, such as Saudade, it is worth bringing some food supplies and plenty of water if you arrive early in the morning. You can time nice enjoy one of the many picnic spots along the way.
Getting around:
If you are unable to walk, consider the 434 tourist bus. For prices and route information, check out this website. Also, there are many people offering taxi and tour services.
Getting there:
Many people take the train from Lisbon’s central Rossio station. The journey takes around 40 minutes. So go early to avoid the long ticket queues!
10. try a pastel de nata (or three!), plus a PORTUGUESE breakfast
Pastel de Natas is the Portuguese staple egg tart pastry with cinnamon. Pasteis de Belém is renowned for its version, which has not changed since its opening in 1837. In 2018, Business Insider reported that they were the most-reviewed eatery on TripAdvisor in the entire world. Yes, you heard right!
As a result, be prepared for queues…
Alternatively, source a Pastel de Nata from one of the many bakeries, pairing it with a delicious Portuguese coffee. You can also try the enjoyable breakfast concept, often called a ‘Portuguese breakfast,’ where you essentially build your own breakfast. Often, this includes a pastry, juice, cheese, coffee, egg, fruit and bread.
Tip:
1: Brooklyn is a great breakfast spot, which has many food options available and fair prices. This is pictured above. However, there are so many food places popping up all the time as the Lisbon food scene continues to grow.
11. soak up the history
There is so much to see and do in Lisbon, so it is important to consider what sights interest you. Some top picks include:
- São Jorge Castle
- Jerónimos monastery
- Carmo Covent, Lisbon Cathedral, and Palace of the Marquises.
Another noteworthy sight is the UNESCO Torre de Belém, which is a fortified fort and the perfect spot to relax as the waves break against the promenade. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument is also close by. If you walk to Belém, you will pass it.
Carmo Covent is a picturesque and interesting sight to visit. If you do not want to join the queues to enter, spend time at a nearby restaurant dining al fresco alongside the castle walls, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the views.
Tips:
1: Torre de Belém is quite a walk from the center. It takes just under an hour one way to walk. Alternatively, consider public transport such as tram 15E in the direction of Algés (Jardim). You could also visit LX Factory and the Time Out Market on the same day.
2: If you plan to visit multiple paid entry sights and use public transport, then consider a Lisbon card. This offers entry into 29 different museums and places of interest, plus free local transportation. Check it out here.
3: Are you interested in Elevador de Santa Justa? It is not a must-do in Lisbon. However, it is included in the 24-hour public transport ticket (along with tram No. 28!), so definitely consider this to save on the entry fee if you are desperate to ride it.
Alternatively, just enter from the top, and if tickets are being checked, pay the 1.50 euro entry fee to enter the top-level viewing platform.
4: Some attractions were closed on Mondays at the time of travel. Check sight opening hours in advance.
12. people watch in the squares
Lisbon has its fair share of squares, which are also commonly called plazas. And they do not mess around, as Praça Do Comércio is the second largest square in the continent after St. Petersburg’s Square in Russia.
Aside from this fun fact, many walking tours start or end here, and this square is a good place to head to if you are lost. It is also where many trams stop.
Other Lisbon squares
Praça du Muncipo, Largo Do Carmo, Rossio, and Camões are worth visiting. Find a seat, grab refreshments from a nearby cafe or kiosk, and watch the world go by.
13. take to the rooftops
If you have not had enough of rooftops and cocktails, then head to one of Lisbon’s many rooftop bars. For example, Park Bar is a popular spot at the top of a car park. The views, varied music, and plant-filled space make up for the unassuming entrance. Plus, you can enjoy lunch or dinner here.
In contrast, for a relaxing ambiance, check out ‘Lost In,’ situated in the Prínciple Real district. Indian merchandise is for sale, incense spreads delicious aromas, and colorful lanterns bathe the terrace in a warm glow. Also, there is a decent food menu and views over the city.
Tip:
1: Do you plan to stay out late? Consider using an app to order a taxi, such as Uber, to ensure reliable and fair prices.
14. Relax and/or surf at the beach
There are many beaches easily reachable by public transport to spend half a day or a full day surfing Portugal’s waves or admiring the surf from the beach. If you have a car or are willing to look at taxi costs, then you have even more flexibility.
Praia de Carcavelos is the first wide sandy beach on the Cascais coast and is only 30 minutes from Lisbon’s center. Here you can hire surfboards or take a lesson. There are a few cafes for refreshments.
Explore further afield:
1: Portinho da Arrabida is a picturesque beach, about an hour from Lisbon, by car.
2: Praia do Tamariz is situated in Estoril. Use the Lisbon-Cascais regional train line. This journey takes around 35 minutes.
3: Cascais: Use the Lisbon-Cascais regional train line from Cais do Sodré. The journey takes about 40 minutes to from Lisbon, depending on stops.
There are three main beach options to choose from:
- Praia da Rainha
- Praia da Ribeira
- Praia da Guincho
If possible, you can cycle the 10km to Guincho. Otherwise, take a 405 or 415 bus here.
Fun facts:
1: In Cascais, there are free bikes and cheap rental options to explore the area from a different perspective.
2: There are many wild and unspoiled beaches near Sintra to research.
15. join a free walking tour
There are several well-reviewed free walking tours in Lisbon, such as Lisbon ‘Chill out’ tours and the larger company Sandemans. Thanks to our local guide, we discovered several photogenic streets whilst also learning more about the history of Lisbon.
Tips:
1: Alternatively, research self-guided walking tours, as there are plenty of free online routes to suit different interests.
2: Often, the free walking tours focus on downtown Lisbon, but some of these companies also offer specific neighborhood or food tours.
3: Although it is called a ‘free walking tour’, the guides work on a tip basis, so consider and respect this.
useful Lisbon travel information
Getting there:
From the UK, multiple airlines and airports offer direct flights to Lisbon. This includes Easyjet and Ryanair. The journey time is just under 3 hours.
Getting to the center:
There are several ways to travel from Lisbon airport to the city center, including taxis, which cost around 15 euros at the time of travel.
The metro is one of the cheapest and quickest options to get to the city. You will be in the center within 25 minutes with one change of metro line.
Otherwise, you can take one of the city buses. Read here for more information.
Getting around:
There are plenty of trams, funiculars, the metro, buses, and trains. You can also walk around the city.
Currency: Euro
Stay:
Check out Hostelworld, as Lisbon is renowned for incredible hostels, which offer everything from rooftop pools to unique interiors. Alternatively, try Airbnb or one of the many Lisbon hotels.
useful link
lisbon tourism site: https://www.visitlisboa.com
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30 Comments
I went to Lisbon for the first time this summer and those hills were killing me. I’m used to walking all around Tokyo, but this was another level. Now I see why they have those trams 🙂
Ah I know, I didn’t realise how hilly it was until I arrived and the burn soon kicked in. The trams are certainly more than a novelty. Good to know Tokyo requires a lot of walking too!
Lisbon seems like such a great city for either a short or a long stay! I love that you can visit the comics mural at the same time as the sunset point, and the artsy vibe seems really great. Plus good food and lots of history, and beaches. Sintra has been on my list for ages too. If only flights there weren’t so pricey…
Yes definitely, it is a good base to explore the coast and Sintra! Yes I realise how lucky I am living in the U.K to explore the rest of Europe. I hope you manage to get there soon!
Wow, thanks for such a detailed guide! The LX FACTORY AND an underground Village Underground made out of maritime containers looks and sounds so cool 🙂
Thank you so much for your feedback. Yes very cool!
Wow, what a great list! So many good tips (and pictures too!). I’ve always wanted to go to Portugal, and this is making it rise even higher on my list. Bookmarking for later!
Thank you so much, yes Portugal is awesome, I hope you get there soon! Let me know if you have anymore questions 🙂
Renaissance indeed! Lisbon is everywhere at the moment! I recognise some of the spots in your photos, but you’ve got some great hidden gems in there as well. Definitely bookmarking this—I’m heading to Portugal for the first time in December!
It really has exploded in popularity! Thank you so much for your feedback, I hope you have an amazing time.
Catching the sun set is a must in places like this! I’m always pleasantly surprised.
Yes I agree, city breaks can be hectic so it is nice to slow down and appreciate the atmosphere. Thanks for the comment!
Lisbon looks like it has everything I could want! I lived in Europe for 6 years but never made it there. I need to!
Ah how awesome you lived in Europe for 6 years. It is definitely a newer city to the radar. Shame but an excuse to come back 🙂
When I visited Lisbon years ago, I felt like there was nothing to do! – well, mystery solved because somehow I didn’t know about 90% of these things lol.
Haha we have all been there right! One of the positives of the internet nowadays is how much easier it is to get an overall idea of a city, though it is still nice to go with no expectations regardless of how it works out !
I have never been to Lisbon but I would certainly use your guide if I were to travel there! I like that is very detailed and provide tips as some blogs just list where to go. I would want to get lost in the different cities that are the best ways to find natives and gems that you might not see.
Thank you I am so pleased to hear it. Yes it is good to strike a balance between having an idea of hidden gems, the best streets and main sights but also feel free to explore – usually you happen across the best experiences this way! Hope you manage to make it to Lisbon.
Loved reading this post,Portugal has been on top of my list for the longest time. I will refer to this post whenever I go, hopefully soon!
Thank you for your comment and feedback. Yeah it is awesome, Porto is next on my list! Hope you get there soon! Have the best time 🙂
Great post thanks for the amazing tips – I had no idea lisbon has a time out market!
Thank you for your comment pleased it is helpful for you! Random right! But very cool I think they plan to roll out more elsewhere but no idea if that has happened yet.
Loved reading your post!
How I wish to visit Lisbon one day.
Thanks for sharing those beautiful glimpses of the city. I especially loved the last picture of a square.
Thank you for your comment and feedback!! I hope you get to go one day!
Lisbon is high up on my list and reading this seriously got me sooooo excited to visit! I loved the little tips you shared too. Super useful and will definitely make my future trip a breeze. Also, no, you can never get enough of rooftop bars. Park bar is defs going up on my list!
Thank you so glad you enjoyed reading it! Yay how exciting, I hope you have a great trip!
I have always wanted to go to Lisbon, my friend did a solo trip there and it has been on my list ever since. Everytime Ryanair has a sale I look for cheap flights, but never ones that fit. I need to go after reading this post! Perfect must dos and who doesn’t love pastel de nata?
How cool yeah it is totally doable solo (though I would say that about everywhere really haha!). Ah shame, keep an eye on some of the other airlines too like TAP or even city break deals with companies like BA can be surprisingly good at times. Who doesn’t indeed- I hope you find a good deal and get there soon (consume plenty more pastel de natas for me)
That is amazing, it sounds like you had a wonderful time! Azujelos museum sounds nice! I can not wait to go!
Thank you!! Yes it was great- I hope you make it there soon and also have a wonderful time.