Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, holds the distinction of being Europe’s most westerly capital city. It draws visitors from around the world, charmed by its historic landmarks, engaging museums, natural beauty, and delectable cuisine. Are you ready to explore Lisbon? Let’s have a look at 41 Best things to do and see in Lisbon.
Staying in Lisbon: The Best Hotels
Lisbon’s relatively compact size means it’s wise to select a centrally-located hotel or lodging. By doing so, you’ll find that much of the city is accessible by a leisurely walk. So, which places do we suggest for your stay in Lisbon?
If you book well in advance, you may be able to secure a room at LR Guest House or Memmo Príncipe Real. If you’re looking for cheap accommodation in Lisbon, you could try a fairly popular hostel right in the centre The Gateway – Lisbon Eco Hostel.
Choosing When to Visit Lisbon: Understanding the Local Climate
Lisbon is a great choice for a getaway any time of the year. During the summer, the warm weather is perfect for strolling through the city’s streets, while the winter offers a quieter experience, allowing for leisurely museum visits and crowd-free tours of historical landmarks. If you’re looking to experience nice weather without the peak tourist crowds, spring and fall are the perfect seasons to visit.
| Month | Average temperature |
| January | 14 °C |
| February | 16 °C |
| March | 18 °C |
| April | 19 °C |
| May | 22 °C |
| June | 25 °C |
| July | 28 °C |
| August | 28 °C |
| September | 27 °C |
| October | 22 °C |
| November | 18 °C |
| December | 15 °C |
How to get around Lisbon
Lisbon is a comfortably walkable city, though for longer distances, its public transportation system is efficient and reliable.
Purchasing Tickets
To use public transit, acquire a Viva Viagem card from the ticket machines located in metro stations. You can recharge your card at these machines or at newsstands, based on your usage. Both the 60-minute and 24-hour passes are universally accepted across all transport modes.
For those who prefer not to purchase a Viva Viagem card for a single journey, such as a tram ride, you can buy a one-time ticket directly from the tram driver or at ticket machines.
Trams
The iconic yellow trams of Lisbon offer a scenic way to explore the city, operating from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM. Notably, Tram 28 is a historic tram that weaves through Lisbon’s most picturesque locations.
Buses
Buses in Lisbon provide extensive coverage, including nighttime services. While you can purchase bus tickets at metro stations, individual tickets are also available from bus drivers for 2 euros. Remember to signal the driver when you wish to board or disembark, as they only stop upon request.
Metro
Lisbon’s metro network comprises four lines that connect key areas like the city center, airport, and train stations. Starting at 6:30 AM and running until 1:00 AM, the metro offers frequent service, approximately every 5 minutes throughout the day.
Cable cars
Lisbon also features a unique cable car system, ideal for navigating the city’s hilly terrain. With six different cable car routes primarily situated in the city center, these rail-bound cars integrate seamlessly with the standard public transport ticketing system, allowing you to use the same tickets you’ve acquired for other modes of transit.
Things to Do in Lisbon
Lisbon is a city with a rich history dating back to pre-Roman times, and its streets are full of stories. Whether you’re a history buff or just a traveller looking for an unforgettable experience, Lisbon is definitely worth a visit. Keep in mind that once you set foot on its historic cobblestones, you may fall in love with it like we did.
The best monuments and historical sights of Lisbon
In 1755, Lisbon experienced one of the most devastating disasters in its history. On All Saints Day, 1st of November, the city was hit by a strong earthquake that reached a magnitude of 8.5-9.0 on the Richter scale. The subsequent tsunami and fire outbreak caused further devastation.
This event, known as the Great Lisbon Earthquake, destroyed most of the city and caused the deaths of thousands of people. The affected area extended up to 200 km inland, where strong seismic activity was recorded.
After the earthquake, Lisbon was rebuilt under the leadership of the Marquis de Pombal, who designed a new octagonal structure for the city. This event marked a major turning point in the history of Lisbon and influenced its further development and architecture. Let’s take a look at what you can see of Lisbon’s historical sights today:
1) Tower of Belém
The Belém Tower stands as a testament to the Portuguese late Gothic architecture, originating from the 16th century and located in the city’s Belém district. Today, this symbol of Lisbon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tower served as a component of the defense system at the mouth of the Tejo River, where it flows into the ocean. The defence system was very important to the people of Portugal at this time, as the country was one of the major maritime powers of the world.
For this reason, this monument has become the main symbol of the city. The tower is also richly decorated not only with turrets and battlements, but also with statues and reliefs. Here you can see, for example. the likeness of the first rhinoceros imported into Europe.
The tower is 30 metres high, has a total of 4 floors and from its terrace you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surroundings. Opening hours and prices can be found here.
2) Jeronymite Monastery
The Jerónimos Monastery is another UNESCO World Heritage site in Lisbon that should be a priority on your itinerary. It’s among the most exquisite examples of Portuguese architecture. Adorned in the Manueline Gothic style, this lavishly embellished edifice took nearly a century to complete (1501-1605).
After admiring the monastery’s striking exterior and the verdant gardens, don’t miss the opportunity to explore its interior. The monastery also serves as the tomb for several notable Portuguese figures, such as King Manuel I and his queen.
Opening times and tickets can be found at here.
3) Sao Jorge Castle
The São Jorge Castle began its history as a Moorish defensive stronghold and continued to function as a fortress until the 12th century. Following reconstruction, it was transformed into a royal residence. Perched atop a hill, the castle looms impressively over the city.
For those who prefer not to ascend the hill on foot, buses and trams provide easier access. During the winter, the castle closes at 6:00 PM, but in the peak tourist season, its doors are open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Admission is priced at 8.50 euros.
4) Royal Palace of Queluz
Situated just 15 kilometres from Lisbon, the Royal Palace is a treasure of architecture and landscaped gardens. The site initially hosted a hunting lodge, which, after its destruction in the 18th century, was rebuilt into a summer retreat and eventually evolved into a royal residence.
The palace also has a somber history, as it temporarily functioned as a place of confinement for Queen Maria I of Portugal during her period of mental illness. Open to the public from Wednesday to Monday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, the palace’s stunning chambers are a must-see.
5) National Pantheon
The Church of St. Engracia, designated as the National Pantheon, has a protracted construction history that spanned from the 17th century well into the 20th. While it once served military functions, today it stands as a memorial to Portugal’s national heroes. The interior boasts an array of colorful marble, and the exterior is equally captivating.
Crowned with an expansive dome, the church offers an elevator that visitors can use to reach the top for a spectacular panoramic view. Open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, entrance fees are set at 3 euros. However, admission is complimentary on Sundays and public holidays.
6) Convento do Carmo
Originally a Carmelite monastery, it is now just a ruin in Lisbon’s Largo do Carmo Square, preserved here as a reminder of the devastating earthquake of 1755, during which many of the faithful perished on the site. Today there is an archaeological museum.
7) Monument to the Discoveries – Padrão dos Descobrimentos
The Monument to the Discoveries stands as a sculpted homage to Portugal’s Age of Exploration, shaped like a ship’s prow in celebration of the country’s maritime history. It was inaugurated on the anniversary of Prince Henry the Navigator’s death, honoring his role in Portugal’s seafaring legacy
Adorned with the Portuguese coat of arms, statues of historical figures, and a relief of the Avis royal family’s sword above its entrance, the monument pays tribute to the explorers who contributed to Portugal’s period of global discovery.
At the forefront, a statue of Prince Henry gazes out over the river, accompanied by 33 other significant figures from Portugal’s past. Visitors can ascend to the top for a sweeping view of the Tagus River, while an interior exhibition delves into Lisbon’s storied past.
Adding to the monument’s allure is a ground mosaic in front of it, illustrating a world map that traces the epic voyages of Portuguese explorers. The monument’s visiting hours are from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM from October to February and extend to 7:00 PM from March to September.
Interesting neighbourhoods in central Lisbon
For those drawn to meandering through quaint, romantic alleyways, seeking out the vibrant pulse of nightlife, or discovering the haunts of bohemian enclaves, the following list features the most celebrated and lively districts in Lisbon.
8) Alfama Historic District
Alfama stands as one of Lisbon’s most venerable quarters, renowned for its labyrinthine streets that ascend steeply, offering multiple breathtaking vistas of the city from above.
This district brims with quaint boutiques featuring traditional crafts, and numerous cozy cafés provide perfect spots for relaxation. Additionally, the historic Tram 28 conveniently winds its way through Alfama, delivering passengers to the doorstep of the São Jorge Castle.
9) The vibrant Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto epitomizes bohemian charm, celebrated for its budget-friendly eateries and stunning architecture, but it’s the district’s electric nightlife that truly defines its pulse. By day, explore cultural gems like the Church of São Roque and take in the sweeping city views from its scenic overlooks.
10) The Sophisticated Chiado
Chiado, Lisbon’s epitome of sophistication, rose phoenix-like from the ashes of the devastating 1988 fire. This traditional yet upscale neighborhood boasts an array of museums, theaters, and historical cafés, alongside chic boutiques. Its central location makes it an ideal home base for visitors to the city.
11) The Historic Heart: Rossio Square
The historic Rossio Square, officially known as King Pedro IV Square, occupies a central spot in Lisbon’s narrative. Once the stage for varied spectacles from celebrations to bullfights, today it remains a beloved rendezvous point, featuring cafés that date back to the 18th century and the iconic Column of Pedro IV.
12) The Grand Praça do Comércio
Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s grandest plaza, holds a place of prominence where the former royal palace stood before the catastrophic earthquake of 1755. This square has been pivotal in Portugal’s maritime history. From its southern side, visitors can savor unobstructed views of the river.
13) LX Factors: The Creator Hub
LX Factory, the Alcântara district’s pulsating creative hub, is a former industrial complex turned cultural hotspot. With an eclectic mix of shops, cafés, art galleries, and studios, it’s a vibrant venue for a slew of cultural happenings from fashion to music. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in its dynamic atmosphere, with night concerts and Sunday flea markets adding to the allure.
14) Time out market
The Time Out Market is a gastronome’s paradise, housing 28 gourmet restaurants, 8 bars, and a selection of shops, alongside a live music venue. Not only can you indulge in the finest steak, sushi, and burgers, but you can also explore the market’s fresh produce and flowers.
Hosting various events, including cooking workshops, this market is a must-visit for food lovers. Open daily from 10:00 AM to midnight.
The Most Beautiful Parks and Gardens in Lisbon
Once you’ve satisfied your appetite for historical landmarks, museums, and retail therapy, take a moment to unwind in the tranquil embrace of the city’s parks and gardens.
15) Edward VII Park
Edward VII Park. takes its name from King Edward VII of the United Kingdom, who came to Portugal in 1903 to strengthen relations. The gardens include the Carlos Lopes Pavilion, the Estufa Fria greenhouse garden, the largest Portuguese flag in the world, and an annual book fair.
16) Monsanto Forest Park
Monsanto Forest Park stands as a bastion of biodiversity, preserving a vast expanse of forest within Lisbon’s urban sprawl. It hosts an eco-park dedicated to educating the public on environmental science, geology, and local plant and animal life. It’s also the headquarters of Portugal’s leading environmental conservation group.
17) Gulbenkian Park
Fashioned as a part of Lisbon’s cultural complex, Gulbenkian Park invites you to explore the adjacent renowned Gulbenkian Museum or the Modern Art Center named after José de Azeredo Perdigao. The park itself is adorned with serene lakes, vibrant flowers, avian life, sculptural art, and an amphitheater, providing a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls.
18) Jardim da Estrela
Jardim da Estrela is a haven of natural beauty, featuring cascading waterfalls, a greenhouse filled with exotic plants, and a meticulously landscaped garden dotted with a variety of trees. It’s particularly favored by families for its well-equipped children’s playground.
19) Parque das Nações
Nestled along the Tagus River, Parque das Nações is a fusion of nature, art, and contemporary architecture. Alongside its trails, the park is sprinkled with street art, state-of-the-art buildings, and the expansive Lisbon Oceanarium.
Culinary delights await in local restaurants, and shopping opportunities abound at the Vasco da Gama Centre. It’s a family-friendly destination, complete with the interactive Pavilhão do Conhecimento, which is geared towards engaging children with exciting exhibits.
Lisbon’s Prime Spots for Sunrise and Sunset Viewing
If you love watching sunsets, be sure to head to one of the many viewpoints you’ll find in Lisbon.
20) Miradouro de Santa Luzia
One of the most popular sights in Lisbon is the Miradouro de Santa Luzia. This romantic viewpoint is covered by a pergola and offers beautiful views of the whole of Alfama along with the river. It is open every day 10:00 – 0:00. In addition to the observation deck itself, you can relax in the on-site café.
21) Miradouro Santa Catarina
This viewpoint is especially popular with the local youth, enjoying not only beautiful sunsets but also weekend concerts.
23) Miradouro da Graça
Miradouro da Graça offers a view of the river and the city. It’s less crowded, allowing for a peaceful sunset experience. You can grab a bite from a nearby vendor and enjoy the surrounding street art.
24) Santa Justa Lift
The Santa Justa Lift, in neo-Gothic style, connects Santa Justa Street with Carmo Square. Made of iron, it stands 45 meters tall and has two cabins, each holding 24 people. A staircase leads to the upper level, offering views of the castle, Rossio Square, and the Baixa district.
What to taste in Lisbon: Traditional Portuguese food and drink
Sampling local specialties is a must when visiting Portugal, and the iconic pastel de nata is at the top of that list. If you leave Portugal without trying this beloved custard tart, your visit is almost incomplete.
25) Pastel de Belém
Pastel de Belém is a traditional Portuguese custard tart, consisting of a pastry ‘shell’ filled with a cream of milk, eggs, sugar, lemon and cinnamon. The first recipe for this delicacy appeared in 1837, when it was created by the monks of the Jerónimos Monastery. In 2009, the pies were listed by The Guardian as one of the 50 best foods in the world. Supposedly the best ones are at Pastelaria San Antonio.
26) Bifana
Bifana is a classic Portuguese sandwich that features a pork cutlet marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, piri-piri sauce, lemon, and various spices, served between soft Portuguese rolls known as papo secos. The sandwich is typically garnished with sautéed onions and sweet peppers. While we haven’t tasted it ourselves due to our vegetarian diet, it’s a local favorite renowned for its bold flavors.
27) Caldo Verde
A very popular local soup is Caldo Verde, a cabbage soup with potatoes. Since this is a local specialty, you should definitely try the soup even if you are not a fan of kale. You might be pleasantly surprised (and if not, you’ll have a story to tell).
28) Ginjinha
If you leave the ginja berries in alcohol and add sugar, cloves or cinnamon, you get Ginjinha, the Portuguese cherry liqueur. It’s so popular here that you’ll find several bars in Lisbon dedicated specifically to this drink. It is often served in a small chocolate cup, which you can eat after drinking the contents.
29) Vinho Verde
The green wine comes from the north of Portugal from the historic province of Minho, now Vinho Verde. The wines are dry or semi-dry and have a relatively low alcohol content.
The Best Museums and Galleries in Lisbon
We love to go visit museums and galleries around the world.
30) Fado Museum
The museum is located in the heart of Lisbon and has several functions – it hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions, an auditorium, a documentation centre and a Museum School.
The permanent exhibition is dedicated to the unique musical style of Fado, which is inherently linked to Portuguese culture. Fado is a traditional Portuguese music characterized by sad melodies and lyrics full of nostalgia, longing and love.
31) National Museum of Azulejos
If you love the local colourful tiles, this museum will probably catch your eye. The collection at the Azulejo Museum is dedicated to traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles called azulejo.
This museum showcases an impressive collection of decorative tiles, with pieces starting from the 15th century, along with porcelain, ceramics, and faience from the 19th and 20th centuries. Housed in the historic Madre de Deus Monastery, the museum welcomes visitors Tuesday through Sunday, with operating hours from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and then from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
32) Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga
Spanning from the Middle Ages through the 19th century, this gallery boasts a diverse array of fine arts, featuring Portuguese masters alongside eminent works like Raphael’s “The Miracle of St. Eusebia of Cremona,” Hieronymus Bosch’s “The Temptation of St. Anthony,” and exquisite pieces from the Ming dynasty. Visitors are welcome Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
33) MAAT
The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology is located on the Tagus River and is one of the most visited museums in Portugal. You will enjoy an educational multidisciplinary programme about art, architecture and technology. Open Wednesday to Monday 10:00 – 19:00.
34) MUDE
The Fashion Museum is located in the former Lisbon Bank building on Rua Augusta. You can’t miss the building, its facade is decorated with fashionable pieces, but the exhibition itself is worth a visit. After the tour, you can also relax in the café and lounge area.
35) Berardo Collection Museum
Clean white long walls with exhibits of modern art, this is the Berardo Collection, or Museum of Contemporary Art. The exhibition was inaugurated in 2007 and includes works from the José Berardo Collection.
The works are arranged in chronological order and include pieces of abstract expressionism, action painting, body art, digital and experimental art, as well as photography, pop art and much more. Notable works include Jackson Pollock‘ sThe Leader, Pablo Picasso’s Head of a Woman , Salvador Dali’s White Aphrodisiac Telephone and works by Andy Warhol.
Lisbon for Couples: Tips For Romantic Trips
If you’re heading to Lisbon in summer or late spring and want to try a romantic getaway, you can book a yacht or boat cruise through GetYourGuide.
Lisbon Day Trips: Where to Go?
With more than a couple of days in Lisbon, seize the opportunity to venture into the surrounding regions. Here’s a curated selection of the top sights and activities to experience near Portugal’s captivating capital.
36) Sintra
Portuguese city in the district of Lisbon, located 20 km from Lisbon. The first sources about this city date back to 11. century. Sintra was the summer residence of the royal family, and today it is home to many palaces, castles, gardens and parks and is known as the fairytale city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you want, you can take a trip from Lisbon directly through GetYourGuide.
37) Cascais
Situated 30 km from Lisbon, this affluent coastal town offers notable sites such as Seixas Palace, an old lighthouse, and a citadel, along with cliffs and beaches.
38) Cabo da Roca
Cabo da Roca offers natural scenery as the westernmost point of both Portugal and continental Europe. Visitors can see a lighthouse and expansive sea and cliff views. It’s located 40 km from Lisbon.
39) Obidos
The town of Obidos is a little further from Lisbon, you will have to drive 80 km to visit it. It is a fortified historical town with a large castle as its dominant feature. The castle dates back to the 12th century. Narrow cobbled streets lead through the town.
40) Fatima
Situated 123 kilometres from Lisbon, Fatima is a pivotal city in Portugal, known for its spiritual significance. It is said that the Virgin Mary manifested to three young shepherds here, transforming Fatima into a sacred Catholic pilgrimage site that draws believers worldwide.
At the heart of Fatima is the Cova da Iria, home to a chapel that serves as a gathering place for daily congregations of pilgrims. Additionally, the grand Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary stands here, which is the final resting place of the three shepherd children who were canonized as saints.
41) On the biggest waves to Nazaré
Nazaré, a small fishing village, has gained international acclaim for its colossal waves. This seaside gem is among Portugal’s most sought-after destinations, drawing visitors and surfers globally to its shores.
Often referred to as the ‘Everest of the seas,’ Nazaré represents a pinnacle challenge for seasoned surfers, boasting some of the largest surfable waves on the planet.
But it depends when you go, in general the “Big Waves” form from October to March and even then you are not guaranteed to see them. We recommend checking the website before your trip Nazare Waves to see if the waves are there.
What else to see in Portugal?
You can fly from Lisbon to a Portuguese island Madeira which is one of Europe’s most beautiful islands. Lisbon is also a great base for exploring the south of Portugal – Algarve which offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. You can also head further north to the amazing town of Porto.
