Uncover the enchanting attract of Portugal’s capital metropolis, with our final information to one of the best issues to do in Lisbon. From the second you set foot on its cobblestone streets, Lisbon invitations you on a journey via historical past and tradition. Discover the historic Belém district, the place the monumental Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém are testaments to Portugal’s Age of Exploration. Wander via the slim alleys of Alfama, town’s oldest quarter, serenaded by the haunting melodies of Fado music. And don’t neglect to indulge within the culinary delights of the Mercado da Ribeira, a meals lover’s paradise, the place one of the best of Portuguese delicacies awaits.
The Finest Issues to Do in Lisbon, Portugal
We spent 3 full days in Lisbon and will have stayed even longer. We actually beloved this metropolis and located it simple to see why individuals beneficial visiting right here so usually. It presents the right mix of previous and current. After all, it’s its historical past that normally attracts individuals right here, however don’t neglect that it additionally has a very cool up to date tradition, from cutting-edge artwork galleries to stylish rooftop bars providing panoramic views that can take your breath away. It’s also the right place to base your self to discover, Sintra’s mystical palaces and Cascais’ golden seashores that are only a brief journey away.
Briefly, Lisbon is the right place to spend no less than 3 days and study Portugal’s historical past and delicacies earlier than venturing out to discover the remainder of the nation. And that’s precisely what we did. These are our suggestions for all the finest issues to do in Lisbon that you simply don’t wish to miss.
1. Torre de Belém (Belém Tower)
One of many first locations you need to go to in Lisbon is the long-lasting Belem Tower or Torre de Belém. Constructed on the Northern Financial institution of the Tagus River, Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Website symbolizing Portugal’s maritime energy.
Constructed within the early Sixteenth century as a fortress to protect the doorway to Lisbon’s harbor, guests are drawn to its ornate limestone façades, richly adorned with maritime motifs and historic figures, providing a glimpse into Portugal’s superb previous. Inside, you may climb the traditional spiral staircases, discover the previous cannons, and revel in views of the Tagus River and the encircling panorama.
The tower’s historical past as a degree of departure for explorers and its position in defending town make it an interesting web site for historical past buffs and structure fanatics alike.
Belem Tower is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to five:30 PM (October to April) and till 6:30 PM (Might to September). Admission prices €6 for adults and is free with the Lisbon Card.
2. Jerónimos Monastery
Positioned only a hop skip and a leap from Torre de Belém, Jerónimos Monastery is one other UNESCO World Heritage web site within the coronary heart of Lisbon’s Belém district.
This constructing is a masterpiece of beautiful magnificence. Jerónimos Monastery was constructed within the Sixteenth century to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s profitable voyage to India. Vasco de Gama was the primary European to achieve India by sea.
His monument is a first-rate instance of Manueline structure, mixing Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish types. Its intricate facades, cloisters, and the awe-inspiring inside of the church, the place Vasco da Gama and different outstanding Portuguese figures are entombed, make it a must-visit for historical past fanatics and structure admirers.
The monastery is open to the general public from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to five:30 PM within the winter months and till 6:30 PM in the course of the summer time, offering ample alternative to discover its grandeur. The doorway payment is €10 for the monastery, with varied reductions accessible for college students, seniors, and households. Guests may get pleasure from free admission on the primary Sunday of every month, making it accessible for everybody to witness the splendor of one in every of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. We admired it from afar, as the road to get in was a bit insane so we advocate reserving a timed entrance prematurely and it’s also free to enter with a Lisbon Card.
3. Pastel de Nata at Pastéis de Belém
Indulging in Pastel de Nata is a quintessential expertise for any customer to Lisbon, and if you’re going to strive it, one of the best place is simply steps away from Jeronimos Monastery.
Pastéis de Belém is an iconic bakery that has been serving its secret recipe since 1837 and presents the unique model of the creamy custard tart that has grow to be an emblem of Portuguese culinary custom. The historical past of those tarts dates again to the early Nineteenth century, crafted by monks on the close by monastery. Because the monastery closed, the recipe was handed to the bakery, making certain the legacy of this scrumptious deal with.
Vacationers flock right here not only for the pastries however for a style of historical past, witnessing the bustling ambiance and the azulejo-covered partitions that inform tales of the previous.
Pastéis de Belém is open day-after-day from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM (or midnight in the course of the summer time), inviting guests to get pleasure from these tarts contemporary from the oven. The price is remarkably reasonably priced, with every tart priced at simply over €1, making it a must-visit for a candy style of Lisbon’s culinary heritage with out breaking the financial institution.
4. Padrão dos Descobrimentos – Monument to the Discoveries
Staying in the identical neighborhood, the Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries) is an imposing construction standing proudly over the Tagus River. Vasco da Gama could also be Portugal’s most well-known explorer. Nonetheless, the nation has a historical past of discoveries and this can be a highly effective tribute to the explorers who ventured into unknown waters.
Positioned only a brief stroll alongside the water from Belem Tower, this putting monument is formed like a ship’s prow and was inaugurated in 1960 to commemorate the five hundredth anniversary of the loss of life of Prince Henry the Navigator, a key determine within the early days of the Portuguese Empire.
The monument showcases over thirty statues of historic figures who vital roles within the discoveries, together with explorers, monarchs, cartographers, and scientists, all led by Prince Henry himself.
The Monument to the Discoveries is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to six:00 PM (March to September) and till 5:00 PM (October to February), with an entrance payment of roughly €6 for the point of view. This web site not solely presents a visible feast and a lesson in historical past but in addition a novel perspective on the daring spirit that propelled Portugal into the annals of worldwide exploration.
5. Mercado de Ribiera (Time Out Market)
Positioned within the full of life Mercado da Ribeira at Cais do Sodré, Mercado de Ribiera was remodeled in 2014 by the group behind Time Out Lisboa journal right into a gastronomic haven, that includes a curated mixture of over 40 areas that features a few of Lisbon’s most famed cooks and eating places.
From conventional Portuguese dishes to up to date fusion delicacies, the market gives an unparalleled alternative to style your method via the flavors of Lisbon. It’s not nearly meals; there are additionally bars, outlets, and steadily held cultural occasions, making it a dynamic hub of exercise.
Open each day from 10:00 AM to midnight (and till 2:00 AM on weekends), the market welcomes guests to discover its choices. Entry to the Time Out Market is free, permitting you to finances in accordance with what you eat or drink, making it a versatile choice for vacationers desirous to expertise one of the best of Lisbon’s meals scene and not using a hefty price ticket.
6. Meals Tour
Should you actually wish to get pleasure from Portuguese meals, a meals tour is an alternative choice. The Portuguese are enthusiastic about their meals and we are able to attest that Portugal has nice meals. Take a meals tour to benefit from the varied methods to eat cod. There are 1001 methods to prepare dinner cod from from roasted cod to canned cod.
This meals tour takes you thru Central Lisbon to pattern Portuguese cuisines whereas taking within the sights and strolling via the Streets. You’ll go to Bairro Alto, Chiato, Rossio and Comércio.
7. Tuk Tuk Tour
One among our favourite issues to do within the Portuguese capital was to hop in a Tuk Tuk and tour. Tuk Tuks are everywhere in the metropolis and we hopped in a single on the Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Tuk Tuks are lined all alongside the streets right here and we negotiated a value of 40€ every for a 90-minute experience. It was a good way to see the highest historic sights and miradors overlooking town heart.
Lisbon is named town of seven hills and taking a tuk-tuk tour was a incredible strategy to get to the highest of those lookout factors rapidly and simply with out having to attend in line for elevators or trams.
8. See the Metropolis Heart from one in every of Lisbon’s Many Mirador’s
As we talked about, Lisbon known as the Metropolis of Seven Hills and one of the crucial standard issues to do in Lisbon is to go as much as one in every of its many views of town for dawn, and sundown or to easily gaze over town centre at any time of day.
The viewpoints are known as Miradors, and we visited many throughout our day exploring on a tuk-tuk. Standouts included the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for its panoramic views of town and the River Tagus. In case you are not on a tour, you may simply entry it by way of the historic tram 28.
Not removed from there, Miradouro da Graça, positioned close to the Graça Church, presents not solely beautiful views but in addition a café to chill out in. A brief stroll or tram experience will take you to this spot, good for a leisurely afternoon.
The Miradouro de Santa Luzia, embellished with tile panels and a pergola, overlooks the Alfama district and is only a stone’s throw away from the Lisbon Cathedral, reachable by foot or by taking tram 28.
Lastly, the Miradouro das Portas do Sol presents a spectacular viewpoint of the previous quarters, finest loved at dawn. Positioned close to Santa Luzia, it’s a handy subsequent cease in your miradour journey. Every Miradouro presents a novel perspective of Lisbon.
Free viewpoints
Miradouro da Senhora Miradouro Da Graca Miradouro Santa Luzia Miradouro das Portas do Sol
9. Elevador de Santa Justa – Santa Justa Raise
There have been large lineups for this elevate and through our go to, the lookout platform was closed so we didn’t go up, however it’s value visiting for a lot of for merely the enjoyable of it.
The journey itself isn’t just a method of transport however a visit again in time to the flip of the Twentieth century. Designed by this Ponsard, a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, the elevate will remind you of the Eiffel Tower. When inside you’ll discover the elevate’s ornate inside and equipment showcasing ingenuity within the industrial age. On the high, the elevate options two viewing platforms, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Lisbon, from the Tagus River to the fort and past.
This neo-Gothic elevator is positioned within the coronary heart of the bustling Baixa district. It presents a novel journey from the decrease streets of the Pombaline downtown as much as the Largo do Carmo taking you instantly into the Carmo Sq., the place the ruins of the Carmo Convent and a pleasant view await.
Keep in mind to go to early or throughout off-peak hours to keep away from lengthy queues. We walked by within the morning, at night time, and in the course of the day and it was busy each time. Santa Justa Raise tickets price round €5.50.
10. Tram 28
Driving Tram 28 in Lisbon is a quintessential expertise to see town from completely different vantage factors winding via well-known districts and previous iconic landmarks.
This journey begins within the Graça district and meanders via Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela, lastly reaching Campo Ourique, offering a complete tour of Lisbon’s various neighborhoods.
You’ll be able to hop on this classic yellow tram at Martim Moniz Sq., the place the route begins, and revel in a experience that appears like stepping again in time. Alongside the best way, passengers are handled to views of Lisbon’s Cathedral, the Santa Luzia viewpoint, the bustling streets of Baixa, and the Estrela Basilica, amongst different sights.
For one of the best expertise, intention to experience early within the morning or later within the night to keep away from the crowds, and contemplate buying a 24-hour public transport ticket for limitless rides on Lisbon’s trams, buses, and metro.
We didn’t experience this tram and as an alternative took escalators, tuks tuks, and Ubers however we did experience the tram in Porto and in case you are visiting Portugal for the primary time, you have to pop onto one in every of its high sights no less than as soon as.
11. Castelo de São Jorge
Visiting Castelo de São Jorge presents you a fascinating journey again in time, mixed with among the most breathtaking views over Lisbon. Perched atop one in every of Lisbon’s highest hills, this historic fortress dates again to the Moorish occupation within the eleventh century. Nevertheless, it showcases layers of historical past from varied intervals of Lisbon’s previous.
As an emblem of Portugal’s wealthy heritage, the fort invitations guests to wander via its storied ramparts, discover historic ruins, and go to the exhibition that narrates its historical past via archaeological finds. Do you know this was Porugal’s first king’s royal residence?
The Digital camera Obscura, providing a 360-degree view of town via a periscope, and the fantastically maintained gardens, the place peacocks roam freely, add to the allure of this web site.
Castelo de São Jorge is open day-after-day from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (March to October) and till 6:00 PM (November to February), making certain ample time for exploration. Admission is roughly €10 for adults, with concessions accessible for college students and seniors, making it a must-visit for these trying to immerse themselves within the historical past and revel in beautiful panoramic views of Lisbon. Seize Your E-Ticket right here.
12. Stroll By the Alfama Neighborhood
It’s becoming that Dice de Fado is positioned within the coronary heart of the Alfama Neighborhood. That is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood which is a labyrinth of slim streets, historic buildings, and panoramic vistas that captivate guests from across the globe.
We have been drawn to its medieval alleys, vibrant avenue life, and beautiful views from the Miradouros (viewpoints) like Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol.
Should you go to on a Tuesday or Saturday you may buy groceries on the Feira da Ladra. This flea market suits proper in with classic clothes, collectibles, and souvenirs.
Wandering via Alfama, you’ll encounter native markets, historic tram 28, and intricately tiled façades, offering countless alternatives for pictures and making recollections.
The district can be dwelling to notable landmarks such because the São Jorge Fort, the majestic Sé Cathedral, the Nationwide Pantheon, Feira da Ladra, and the Door of the Solar viewpoints. A strolling tour of this neighborhood is one of the simplest ways to understand all it has to supply.
13. Watch a Fado Present at Clube de Fado
We booked a Fado Present via GetYourGuide, however we want that we went to a extra genuine Fado Present within the Amalfa District.
Clube de Fado is one in every of Lisbon’s most esteemed venues. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Website listed for its intangible cultural heritage. The dimly lit room units the stage for an evening of poignant performances, creating an electrical but deeply emotional ambiance.
Clube de Fado attracts a few of Portugal’s best Fado singers and classical guitarists (taking part in the Portuguese guitarra) pouring their hearts into each efficiency. The acoustics of the venue are designed to reinforce the mournful melodies and poetic lyrics that talk of life, loss, and longing, capturing the essence of the Portuguese spirit.
Eating at Clube de Fado provides one other layer to the expertise, with conventional Portuguese dishes and positive wines serving as the right accompaniments to the night’s leisure.
Whereas reservations are extremely beneficial because of the recognition of the venue, the trouble to safe a spot is nicely value it for the unforgettable expertise of connecting with the uncooked emotion and cultural depth of Fado music.
14. Museo do Fado
If you wish to be taught extra about Fado, go to the Museu do Fado. Portugal’s most iconic musical expression is acknowledged as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Positioned within the historic Alfama district, only a stone’s throw from the Lisbon Cathedral, this museum is devoted to celebrating the historical past and tradition of Fado, from its origins within the Nineteenth century to the current day.
The Museu do Fado gives an immersive expertise with its intensive assortment of Fado recordings, memorabilia, and private gadgets from legendary Fado singers. Guests can discover interactive displays, take heed to basic and up to date Fado performances, and even attempt to play a Portuguese guitar.
Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to six:00 pm.
15. LX Manufacturing unit
We actually beloved the vibe of LX Manufacturing unit. This former industrial complicated has been remodeled right into a busy artists neighborhood nestled beneath the towering 25 de Abril Bridge within the Alcântara district of Lisbon.
This city oasis is a must-visit for vacationers in search of to immerse in Lisbon’s up to date artwork scene, providing an eclectic mixture of artwork studios, quirky outlets, fashionable cafes, and world-class eating places. Plus, the meals and drinks are fairly reasonably priced making it an ideal cease for lunch.
LX Manufacturing unit was as soon as an industrial complicated of previous buildings that has been remodeled right into a dynamic cultural and industrial hub.
The realm hosts common markets, stay music, and artwork exhibitions, making certain that no two visits are the identical. Entry to LX Manufacturing unit itself is free, permitting guests to walk via its alleys, admire the putting city artwork, and absorb the inventive power that permeates the air.
Open day-after-day, with outlets usually working from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and eating places and bars usually staying open a lot later, guests can discover at their leisure, experiencing the buzzing ambiance that lasts into the night time.
16. Pink Avenue
Pink Avenue, formally referred to as Rua Nova do Carvalho, is a full of life hotspot in Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré district that has grow to be a must-visit vacation spot for vacationers in search of the heartbeat of town’s nightlife and cultural scene.
As soon as a seedy space recognized for its nightclubs and bars catering to sailors, Pink Avenue is reworking into one in every of Lisbon’s most trendy and Instagrammable places. It nonetheless has a seedy really feel, however in the course of the day, it attracts Influencers and wannabes to take pictures of its hanging umbrellas and pink-painted streets.
Painted pink in 2013 as a part of a revitalization venture, Pink Avenue is a novel city landmark. It’s open 24/7, and the realm is busy, particularly after darkish when the bars, golf equipment, and eating places come alive, providing all the pieces from conventional Portuguese dishes to progressive cocktails.
Guests can discover the road and its environment for gratis, having fun with the colourful avenue artwork, fashionable outlets, and the full of life ambiance that embodies the fashionable spirit of Lisbon. Pink Avenue isn’t just a spot to see; it’s an expertise, providing a glimpse into town’s transformation and its vibrant up to date tradition.
Whether or not you’re in search of an evening out with mates, a style of native delicacies, or only a stroll in an attention-grabbing setting, Pink Avenue in Lisbon guarantees an unforgettable expertise with out the necessity for admission charges.
17. Nationwide Tile Museum
One factor you’ll discover in most of the cities of Portugal is the gorgeous ceramic tiles adorning the facades of buildings within the metropolis heart. The Nationwide Tile Museum or Museu Nacional do Azulejo, in Lisbon, is a novel cultural treasure that gives guests an in-depth take a look at the artwork and historical past of Portuguese tiles, referred to as azulejos.
Housed within the former Convent of Madre de Deus, based in 1509, the museum showcases the evolution of tilework in Portugal from the fifteenth century to the current day.
The gathering contains beautiful examples of azulejos, (ceramic tiles) starting from easy geometric patterns to elaborate narrative panels that depict Portugal’s wealthy historical past and tradition. One of many museum’s highlights is a 36-meter-long panorama of Lisbon earlier than the devastating 1755 earthquake.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to six:00 PM, providing ample time for guests to discover its huge displays. Admission is round €5, with reductions accessible for college students and seniors, making it an reasonably priced and enjoyable expertise.
18. Central Baixa District
Nestled on the coronary heart of central Lisbon this district is named the downtown space of Lisbon, Baixa is distinguished by its grand plazas, Pombaline structure, and majestic streets like Rua Augusta, resulting in the triumphal arch and the beautiful Praça do Comércio dealing with the Tagus River.
This district is a must-visit for its mix of historic significance and fashionable vitality. With pedestrian-only streets, purchasing, and cafes the Central Baixa District is a great spot to hang around for a day.
Key sights embrace the Elevador de Santa Justa, an ornate, early Twentieth-century elevate that we talked about earlier on this article, and the MUDE (Museum of Design and Trend).
Baixa’s grid-like format, designed after the good earthquake of 1755, makes it simple to discover on foot. You’ll be able to get pleasure from purchasing, and sipping espresso in conventional cafes, in addition to loads of eating places serving Portuguese and worldwide delicacies. Exploring Baixa is basically free, except for particular sights just like the Santa Justa Raise, the place a ticket prices round €5.50.
19. Praça Comercio
Praça Comercio stands entrance and spherical on the shores of the Tagus River and you’ll undoubtedly find yourself right here no less than as soon as in your go to to town. Getting into from Baxia below the Arco da Rua Agusta will take your breath away.
This grand sq. on the River Tagus is as huge as it’s lovely, with its distinctive U-shaped association of yellow Nineteenth-century buildings standing on the former Royal Palace of Ribeira that was destroyed following the devastating 1755 earthquake.
Traditionally, it served because the gateway to Lisbon, the place retailers would commerce items from across the globe. Right now, it stands as a testomony to Lisbon’s resilience and its maritime glory, framed by its iconic yellow Pombaline structure and the statue of King José I at its heart.
20. Bairro Alto
One among our favourite spots for a drink within the metropolis was within the Bairro Alto District. Nestled within the coronary heart of town, Bairro Alto comes alive because the solar units, with its slim cobbled streets buzzing with an array of bars, eating places, and stay music venues that cater to each style.
By day, this district continues to be value a go to with its beautiful Sixteenth-century structure, colourful facades, and picturesque viewpoints that overlook town.
As night time falls, immerse your self within the district’s full of life ambiance, the place the sounds of Fado music spill out from the normal homes. Bairro Alto’s central location, simply accessible by the long-lasting Tram 28 or the Baixa-Chiado metro station, makes it a must-visit vacation spot for anybody trying to expertise the genuine spirit of Lisbon. Whether or not you’re seeking cultural enrichment or just to get pleasure from an evening out, Bairro Alto presents an unforgettable slice of Lisbon’s dynamic city tradition.
21. Lisbon Cathedral – Sé de Lisboa
The Lisbon Cathedral, regionally referred to as Sé de Lisboa, is a monumental landmark that no customer ought to miss whereas exploring town. Positioned within the coronary heart of the historic Alfama district, this imposing cathedral was initially constructed in 1147 however the cathedral has undergone varied architectural transformations, mixing Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque types.
You’ll be able to discover the cathedral’s inside, which homes vital spiritual artifacts, stained glass home windows, and the spectacular cloister. The treasury room is one other spotlight, showcasing a group of ecclesiastical treasures.
Open each day, with hours usually from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.
22. Sintra
Fairly Sintra will get all the eye, and in case you are in search of a tried-and-tested day journey from Lisbon, this charming village is the best choice. You’ll be able to admire beautiful royal residences, together with the Pena Nationwide Palace. Pena Palace is known for its shiny colours and daring structure and takes over 2.5 hours to tour due to all its grandeur and scale.
Nevertheless, Sintra has loads of palaces and castles, so don’t restrict your self to 1. Our favourite place to go to in Sintra was Quinta da Regaleira. The mysterious nicely is positioned on a Nineteenth-century property surrounded by lush gardens stuffed with unique crops and flowers.
The actual attraction of the Quinta da Regaleira is its underground tunnels and caves. These mysterious passages have been as soon as used for initiation rites by secret societies such because the Free Masons, and their secrets and techniques nonetheless stay hidden to at the present time. Guests can discover the tunnels and caves, discovering hidden chambers and hidden passageways as they go.
Sintra is simply half-hour from Lisbon, making it one of the crucial standard issues to do. It’s a handy but epic day journey for anybody wanting a magical day tour from Lisbon. And you’ll benefit from the novelty of palaces and romantic structure in simply half a day.
23. Cascais
Cascais is a small city however an especially enjoyable day journey. Furthermore, this is among the solely day journeys from Lisbon you may take by practice versus bus, as Cascais has its personal practice station linked by the ‘Linha de Cascais.’ It’s a scenic experience, taking you previous sandy seashores and coastal surroundings, and it solely takes 40 minutes from Cais do Sodre station in southwest Lisbon. The seaside resort is bubbly, with a enjoyable vibe and a mix of purchasing streets and beachfront eating places. Its previous city is the place you’ll discover the extra ‘severe sightseeing’ alternatives, with the Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort and Citadel Palace.
Cascais is a enjoyable allrounder with an impressive steadiness of issues to do if you need a fast escape from Lisbon’s metropolis heart.
Why We Love Lisbon, Portugal
Whether or not you’re marveling on the iconic tram 28 because it weaves via town, sipping on a glass of Vinho Verde in a full of life Bairro, or watching the sundown from the São Jorge Fort, Lisbon guarantees an unforgettable journey. Let’s embark on this journey collectively, exploring one of the best issues to do in Lisbon, the place historical past, tradition, and sweetness intertwine to create a vacation spot like no different.
Visiting Lisbon isn’t nearly checking off the vital monuments and high sights. It’s about strolling via its cobbled streets, taking within the power of the completely different neighborhoods and districts, and attending to know the individuals. We solely spent a couple of days in Lisbon, however you possibly can simply spend per week within the metropolis to get pleasure from all the pieces it has to supply.