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 by means of 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 by means of the slim alleys of Alfama, town’s oldest quarter, serenaded by the haunting melodies of Fado music. And don’t overlook 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 Greatest Issues to Do in Lisbon, Portugal
We spent 3 full days in Lisbon and will have stayed even longer. We actually liked this metropolis and located it simple to see why individuals really helpful visiting right here so usually. It provides the proper mix of previous and current. After all, it’s its historical past that often attracts individuals right here, however don’t overlook that it additionally has a extremely 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 proper place to base your self to discover, Sintra’s mystical palaces and Cascais’ golden seashores that are only a quick journey away.
Briefly, Lisbon is the proper place to spend at the very least 3 days and find out about 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 the entire greatest issues to do in Lisbon that you just 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 enduring Belem Tower or Torre de Belém. Constructed on the Northern Financial institution of the Tagus River, Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site 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 embellished with maritime motifs and historic figures, providing a glimpse into Portugal’s superb previous. Inside, you possibly can 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 function in defending town make it an enchanting website for historical past buffs and structure lovers alike.
Belem Tower is often open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to five:30 PM (October to April) and till 6:30 PM (Could to September). Admission prices €6 for adults and is free with the Lisbon Card.
2. Jerónimos Monastery
Positioned only a hop skip and a soar from Torre de Belém, Jerónimos Monastery is one other UNESCO World Heritage website 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 main instance of Manueline structure, mixing Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish kinds. 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 lovers 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 through the summer season, offering ample alternative to discover its grandeur. The doorway price is €10 for the monastery, with numerous reductions accessible for college kids, seniors, and households. Guests also can take pleasure in free admission on the primary Sunday of every month, making it accessible for everybody to witness the splendor of one among Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. We admired it from afar, as the road to get in was just a little insane so we suggest 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 will 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 provides the unique model of the creamy custard tart that has turn into 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, guaranteeing 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 daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM (or midnight through the summer season), inviting guests to take pleasure in these tarts contemporary from the oven. The fee 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 quick stroll alongside the water from Belem Tower, this placing monument is formed like a ship’s prow and was inaugurated in 1960 to commemorate the five hundredth anniversary of the dying 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 important 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 price of roughly €6 for the point of view. This website not solely provides a visible feast and a lesson in historical past but additionally a singular perspective on the daring spirit that propelled Portugal into the annals of world exploration.
5. Mercado de Ribiera (Time Out Market)
Positioned within the vigorous Mercado da Ribeira at Cais do Sodré, Mercado de Ribiera was remodeled in 2014 by the crew 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 famous cooks and eating places.
From conventional Portuguese dishes to up to date fusion delicacies, the market offers an unparalleled alternative to style your approach by means of the flavors of Lisbon. It’s not nearly meals; there are additionally bars, retailers, 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 price range in accordance with what you eat or drink, making it a versatile choice for vacationers eager to expertise one of the best of Lisbon’s meals scene and not using a hefty price ticket.
6. Meals Tour
If you happen to actually wish to take pleasure in Portuguese meals, a meals tour is another choice. The Portuguese are captivated with their meals and we will attest that Portugal has nice meals. Take a meals tour to benefit from the numerous methods to eat cod. There are 1001 methods to cook 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 by means of the Streets. You’ll go to Bairro Alto, Chiato, Rossio and Comércio.
7. Tuk Tuk Tour
One in all our favourite issues to do within the Portuguese capital was to hop in a Tuk Tuk and tour. Tuk Tuks are all around 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 trip. It was an effective way to see the highest historic sights and miradors overlooking town middle.
Lisbon is named town of seven hills and taking a tuk-tuk tour was a improbable method 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 among Lisbon’s Many Mirador’s
As we talked about, Lisbon known as the Metropolis of Seven Hills and one of the vital well-liked issues to do in Lisbon is to go as much as one among 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. If you’re not on a tour, you possibly can simply entry it through the historic tram 28.
Not removed from there, Miradouro da Graça, positioned close to the Graça Church, provides not solely beautiful views but additionally a café to loosen up in. A brief stroll or tram trip will take you to this spot, excellent 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, greatest loved at dawn. Positioned close to Santa Luzia, it’s a handy subsequent cease in your miradour journey. Every Miradouro provides a singular 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 Carry
There have been enormous lineups for this elevate and through our go to, the lookout platform was closed so we didn’t go up, however it’s price visiting for a lot of for merely the enjoyable of it.
The journey itself is not only 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 fortress and past.
This neo-Gothic elevator is positioned within the coronary heart of the bustling Baixa district. It provides a singular journey from the decrease streets of the Pombaline downtown as much as the Largo do Carmo taking you straight into the Carmo Sq., the place the ruins of the Carmo Convent and a pleasant view await.
Bear 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 through the day and it was busy each time. Santa Justa Carry tickets value round €5.50.
10. Tram 28
Driving Tram 28 in Lisbon is a quintessential expertise to see town from completely different vantage factors winding by means of well-known districts and previous iconic landmarks.
This journey begins within the Graça district and meanders by means of Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela, lastly reaching Campo Ourique, offering a complete tour of Lisbon’s various neighborhoods.
You possibly can hop on this classic yellow tram at Martim Moniz Sq., the place the route begins, and revel in a trip that appears like stepping again in time. Alongside the way in which, 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, purpose to trip early within the morning or later within the night to keep away from the crowds, and take into account buying a 24-hour public transport ticket for limitless rides on Lisbon’s trams, buses, and metro.
We didn’t trip this tram and as an alternative took escalators, tuks tuks, and Ubers however we did trip the tram in Porto and if you’re visiting Portugal for the primary time, it’s essential to pop onto one among its high points of interest at the very least as soon as.
11. Castelo de São Jorge
Visiting Castelo de São Jorge provides you a charming journey again in time, mixed with among the most breathtaking views over Lisbon. Perched atop one among Lisbon’s highest hills, this historic fortress dates again to the Moorish occupation within the eleventh century. Nonetheless, it showcases layers of historical past from numerous durations of Lisbon’s previous.
As an emblem of Portugal’s wealthy heritage, the fortress invitations guests to wander by means of its storied ramparts, discover historical ruins, and go to the exhibition that narrates its historical past by means of 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 by means of a periscope, and the fantastically maintained gardens, the place peacocks roam freely, add to the allure of this website.
Castelo de São Jorge is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (March to October) and till 6:00 PM (November to February), guaranteeing ample time for exploration. Admission is roughly €10 for adults, with concessions accessible for college kids and seniors, making it a must-visit for these seeking to immerse themselves within the historical past and revel in beautiful panoramic views of Lisbon. Seize Your E-Ticket right here.
12. Stroll By way of 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 had 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.
If you happen to go to on a Tuesday or Saturday you possibly can buy groceries on the Feira da Ladra. This flea market suits proper in with classic clothes, collectibles, and souvenirs.
Wandering by means of Alfama, you’ll encounter native markets, historic tram 28, and intricately tiled façades, offering infinite alternatives for images and making reminiscences.
The district can be dwelling to notable landmarks such because the São Jorge Fortress, 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 best ways to understand all it has to supply.
13. Watch a Fado Present at Clube de Fado
We booked a Fado Present by means of GetYourGuide, however we want that we went to a extra genuine Fado Present within the Amalfa District.
Clube de Fado is one among Lisbon’s most esteemed venues. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Web site 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 most interesting 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 boost 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 wonderful wines serving as the proper accompaniments to the night’s leisure.
Whereas reservations are extremely really helpful because of the reputation of the venue, the hassle to safe a spot is nicely price 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 offers an immersive expertise with its in depth assortment of Fado recordings, memorabilia, and private objects from legendary Fado singers. Guests can discover interactive reveals, 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 liked the vibe of LX Manufacturing unit. This former industrial complicated has been remodeled right into a busy artists group 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 retailers, 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 world hosts common markets, reside music, and artwork exhibitions, guaranteeing that no two visits are the identical. Entry to LX Manufacturing unit itself is free, permitting guests to walk by means of its alleys, admire the placing city artwork, and absorb the inventive vitality that permeates the air.
Open daily, with retailers 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 Road
Pink Road, formally generally known as Rua Nova do Carvalho, is a vigorous hotspot in Lisbon’s Cais do Sodré district that has turn into a must-visit vacation spot for vacationers in search of the heart beat of town’s nightlife and cultural scene.
As soon as a seedy space identified for its nightclubs and bars catering to sailors, Pink Road is reworking into one among Lisbon’s most trendy and Instagrammable areas. It nonetheless has a seedy really feel, however through the day, it attracts Influencers and wannabes to take photographs of its hanging umbrellas and pink-painted streets.
Painted pink in 2013 as a part of a revitalization venture, Pink Road is a singular city landmark. It’s open 24/7, and the world is busy, particularly after darkish when the bars, golf equipment, and eating places come alive, providing every little thing from conventional Portuguese dishes to progressive cocktails.
Guests can discover the road and its environment without charge, having fun with the colourful avenue artwork, fashionable retailers, and the vigorous ambiance that embodies the trendy spirit of Lisbon. Pink Road is not only 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 associates, a style of native delicacies, or only a stroll in an eye catching setting, Pink Road 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 middle. The Nationwide Tile Museum or Museu Nacional do Azulejo, in Lisbon, is a singular cultural treasure that gives guests an in-depth take a look at the artwork and historical past of Portuguese tiles, generally known 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 reveals. Admission is round €5, with reductions accessible for college kids 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, buying, and cafes the Central Baixa District is a great spot to hang around for a day.
Key points of interest 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 structure, designed after the nice earthquake of 1755, makes it simple to discover on foot. You possibly can take pleasure in buying, and sipping espresso in conventional cafes, in addition to loads of eating places serving Portuguese and worldwide delicacies. Exploring Baixa is basically free, other than particular points of interest just like the Santa Justa Carry, 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 at the very least 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. Immediately, 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 middle.
20. Bairro Alto
One in all 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 reside music venues that cater to each style.
By day, this district remains to be price 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 vigorous ambiance, the place the sounds of Fado music spill out from the standard homes. Bairro Alto’s central location, simply accessible by the enduring Tram 28 or the Baixa-Chiado metro station, makes it a must-visit vacation spot for anybody seeking to expertise the genuine spirit of Lisbon. Whether or not you’re in quest of cultural enrichment or just to take pleasure in an evening out, Bairro Alto provides an unforgettable slice of Lisbon’s dynamic city tradition.
21. Lisbon Cathedral – Sé de Lisboa
The Lisbon Cathedral, regionally generally known 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 numerous architectural transformations, mixing Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque kinds.
You possibly can discover the cathedral’s inside, which homes important spiritual artifacts, stained glass home windows, and the spectacular cloister. The treasury room is one other spotlight, showcasing a set 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 if you’re in search of a tried-and-tested day journey from Lisbon, this charming village is the best choice. You possibly can admire attractive royal residences, together with the Pena Nationwide Palace. Pena Palace is legendary for its shiny colours and daring structure and takes over 2.5 hours to tour due to all its grandeur and scale.
Nonetheless, Sintra has loads of palaces and castles, so don’t restrict your self to at least one. 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 full of unique crops and flowers.
The actual attraction of the Quinta da Regaleira is its underground tunnels and caves. These mysterious passages had 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 today. 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 vital well-liked 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 possibly can take by prepare versus bus, as Cascais has its personal prepare station linked by the ‘Linha de Cascais.’ It’s a scenic trip, 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 buying streets and beachfront eating places. Its previous city is the place you’ll discover the extra ‘critical sightseeing’ alternatives, with the Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort and Citadel Palace.
Cascais is a enjoyable allrounder with an excellent stability of issues to do in order for you a fast escape from Lisbon’s metropolis middle.
Why We Love Lisbon, Portugal
Whether or not you’re marveling on the iconic tram 28 because it weaves by means of town, sipping on a glass of Vinho Verde in a vigorous Bairro, or watching the sundown from the São Jorge Fortress, 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 wonder intertwine to create a vacation spot like no different.
Visiting Lisbon isn’t nearly checking off the necessary monuments and high points of interest. It’s about strolling by means of its cobbled streets, taking within the vitality of the completely different neighborhoods and districts, and attending to know the individuals. We solely spent just a few days in Lisbon, however you might simply spend per week within the metropolis to take pleasure in every little thing it has to supply.