Lisbon: The top 18 best things to do
Welcome to Lisbon, a city full of charm, history and vibrant energy. From winding cobbled streets to colorful tiled facades and breathtaking views of the Tagus River. Lisbon is built against seven hills, which makes it an interesting challenge to walk around. This city is a must-visit destination for travelers from all over the world. Whether you are interested in historical monuments, cultural treasures or just want to enjoy the lively atmosphere. Lisbon has something for everyone.
The Lisbon City Card
Order the Lisbon City Card easily online before you go to Portugal. This card has one variant with the only difference being the duration (24, 48, 72 hours). You get free admission to many attractions in Lisbon, discounts for activities and benefits such as skip the line. If you are planning to do and see a lot during your visit, you will save a lot of money with the Lisbon City Card. In this extensive article you will read everything you want to know about the Lisbon City Card and the benefits it offers.
1: Visit the Castelo de São Jorge
Castelo de São Jorge is one of the oldest buildings in Lisbon and was built in the 11th century by the Moors on the remains of a fortress from the 5th century. The castle, which is located on a hilltop, offers stunning views of the city and the Tagus River. You can also learn more about the history of Lisbon and the castle itself.
2: Visit the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
This impressive monastery from the 16th century is an example of Portuguese architecture and history. It is one of the must-see attractions in Lisbon. The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is located in the Belém district and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit the church, the monastery and the tombs of Vasco da Gama and Luís de Camões.
3: Get on tram 28
This historic tram takes you through the popular neighborhoods of Alfama and Baixa, winding through the steep and winding streets of Lisbon. It is also used by locals, making it a great way to experience the city’s culture and see some of its most famous landmarks. You can get off the tram at any of the stops to visit the Cathedral of Lisbon, or at Miradouro das Portas do Sol for a panoramic view of the city.
4: Ride the Ascensor da Bica
This is a funicular that takes you from the Baixa district to the higher-lying Bairro Alto district. The funicular is one of the icons of Lisbon and runs back and forth on short, but very steep routes. Apart from a fun ride, this will also save you muscle pain in your legs.
5: Admire the Torre de Belém
The Torre de Belém is a beautiful defensive tower on the banks of the Tagus River. It was built in the 16th century in the Manueline style, which combines elements from the sea and nature. From the top of the tower you have a stunning view of the river, the city and the nearby monuments.
6: Eat and drink in the Time Out Mercado da Ribeira
If you love good food, you should not miss the Time Out Mercado da Ribeira. This is a modern and cozy food court in a historic market hall in Lisbon. You can choose from over 30 stalls that, among others, offer all the famous Portuguese dishes and regional specialties. You can also buy fresh produce or take home some souvenirs.
7: Discover the Padrão dos Descobrimentos
The Padrão dos Descobrimentos is an impressive monument that honors the Portuguese explorers who explored the world in the 15th and 16th centuries. The monument has the shape of a ship with 33 figures from Portuguese history, with Henry the Navigator at the head. From the top of the monument you have a stunning view of the Tagus River, the Belém neighborhood and the enormous wind rose on the square.
8: Taste the pastéis de Belém
Pastéis de Belém are the original and most famous pastéis de nata, the delicious pastries with creamy filling and crispy puff pastry. They have been made since 1837 according to a secret recipe from the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. You can taste them in the historic bakery Pastéis de Belém which is located right next to the monastery. Here you can also see how they are made. Sprinkle them with cinnamon or powdered sugar (or both!) and enjoy a piece of Portuguese sweet tradition.
9: Go up with the Santa Justa Lift
The impressive iron Santa Justa Lift connects the Baixa neighborhood with the higher Carmo square. It is a vertical lift that opened in 1902 as part of the city’s public transport. The lift is built in a neo-Gothic style and has a height of 45 meters. From the observation platform at the top, you have a stunning view of the city, the river, and the São Jorge castle.
10: Visit the LX Factory
LX Factory is a trendy and creative hotspot in Lisbon, where you can enjoy art, culture, food and drinks. It is an old factory site that has been transformed into a vibrant mini-city with shops, restaurants, bars, galleries and more. Here you can buy the freshest local products, admire the best street art, taste the most delicious dishes and enjoy parties at night.
11: Praça do Comércio
Praça do Comércio is the largest and most famous square in Lisbon, located right next to the Tagus River. It is the historical and political heart of the city, where the royal palace once stood and where important ministries and the city hall are now located. The square has an impressive arch, a statue of King José I and a stunning view of the river and the bridge.
Tip: If you are a beer lover, on the corner of the square you will find the Museu da Cerveja with an extensive beer menu. For a soft price (€7.50) you can take a tour where you learn about the history of beer in Portugal. A big plus, after the tour you can choose a free beer from the large selection.
12: Walk around in the district of Alfama
Alfama is the oldest district of Lisbon and offers a unique atmosphere full of charm and authenticity. Stroll through the narrow cobbled streets, listen to the traditional fado music that flows out of the bars and restaurants and discover the colorful houses and hidden squares.
13: Find some peace in the botanic garden Estufa Fria
Estufa Fria is a beautiful botanical garden in the Eduardo VII Park in Lisbon. It is a former basalt quarry that has been transformed into a greenhouse that now consists of three parts: the original Cold Greenhouse (Estufa Fria), Hot Greenhouse (Estufa Quente),and Sweet Greenhouse (Estufa Doce). You can admire more than 300 species of plants from different parts of the world, such as ferns, azaleas, cacti and orchids. Estufa Fria is an oasis of peace and beauty in the heart of the city, where you can enjoy nature and art.
14: Listen to the famous Fado music
Fado is the traditional Portuguese music that expresses emotions such as sadness, nostalgia, and love. You can see or visit a Fado show in one of the many fado houses or restaurants in the Alfama or Bairro Alto districts. For example, reserve a table at Parreirinha de Alfama, one of the oldest Fado houses. Or walk in on the weekend at Tasca do Chico, make sure you get there early because the tables fill up quickly. Another way to experience Fado is by taking this Alfama Tour where you will see live Fado and even a traditional dinner is included.
15: Miradouro de Santa Luzia and da Senhora do Monte
Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte are two beautiful viewpoints in Lisbon. Here you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city, the river Tagus and the castle. Santa Luzia is decorated with colorful azulejos, a fountain, and a garden. The viewpoint is located near the historic Alfama district. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is the highest viewpoint in the city and there is a chapel that you can visit. Both viewpoints are fantastic places where you can admire a romantic sunset.
16: Enjoy the atmosphere on Pink Street
Pink Street is one of the most popular nightlife streets in Lisbon and is located in the Cais do Sodré district. The street is named after the pink color of the street, which was painted in 2013 as part of an urban renewal project. You can find a variety of bars, clubs and terraces here, which often organize live music and theme parties. Pink Street is a lively and cozy place to drink, dance and have fun until the early hours of the morning. During the day, you can also take beautiful photos of the pink street and the rainbow umbrellas that hang there.
17: Plan a daytrip to beautiful Sintra
Sintra is a fairytale town with castles and palaces that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located about 40 minutes by train from Lisbon and you can easily spend a whole day (or more) here. One of the highlights is the Palácio Nacional da Pena, a colorful and exotic building that stands on top of a hill. The palace is located in the middle of a beautiful garden with exotic plants. Another impressive monument is the Castelo dos Mouros, a medieval fortress that offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding area. Be sure to visit Quinta da Regaleira, a mysterious estate with a palace, a chapel, a park and an underground labyrinth of tunnels and wells. Soon we will publish an article where you can read everything you want to know about Sintra.
18: Plan a daytrip to Cascais
Cascais is a popular seaside resort on the Portuguese coast, about 35 minutes by train from Lisbon. It has a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches and promenades, and is filled with parks and villas. You can enjoy the sun, the sea and the culture here. Cascais was once the favorite refuge of the Portuguese royal family and you can still see their traces in the Fort of Cascais, the Palace of the Duchess of Palmela and the Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum. Soon we will publish an article where you can read everything you want to know about Cascais.
Transportation to and in Lisbon
Lisbon is a large city and is built against seven hills. This makes it a challenge to do everything on foot. Public transportation in Lisbon is fortunately well-organized and consists of different options: buses, trams, metros and trains. If you choose not to go for the Lisbon City Card, the easiest option is to buy a day ticket (24 hours) for access to the public transport. There are three options and what is most convenient depends on your plans in Lisbon. Day tickets can be bought most easily at metro stations, which are recognizable by the red M. There are vending machines here, in some cases you buy the day tickets at the counter. The prices in 2023 are:
- Day ticket (bus, tram, metro): €6,40
- Day ticket (bus, tram, metro, ferry): €9,55
- Day ticket (bus, tram, metro, CP train): €10,60
From and to the airport in Lisbon
The easiest way is to take the red metro line, Linha Vermelha, which runs from the airport to the center of Lisbon. The metro departs every 10 minutes and you will be in the center in about 30 minutes. Another option is to book a private transfer with a car. This offers you more convenience and you will be dropped off directly at your hotel.
Handy to take with you
- Bring good shoes! You will probably walk a lot and since the streets of Lisbon can be very hilly, this is quite the challenge.
- A reusable water bottle, so you don’t have to buy new water bottles all the time and you can just fill up your own bottle. Good for your wallet and sustainable!
- A small backpack to carry your essentials or your new purchases.
Lisbon is a vibrant, energetic and diverse city and definitely suitable for a fantastic city trip! The sights of Lisbon are very different, making it a city where you can easily enjoy yourself for several days.
