Things To Do
in Lisbon
Lisbon is a sunlit city built on seven hills with sweeping views over the Tagus River. Its tiled façades, winding alleyways, and vibrant squares blend old-world charm with a modern, energetic scene. Trams rattle through pastel neighborhoods as cafés spill onto sun-drenched plazas.
From miradouros to riverfront promenades, Lisbon invites exploration on foot, by tram, or along the water.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a traditional Portuguese breakfast at a local café, enjoying pastéis de nata alongside a strong bica. After breakfast, stroll through the cobblestone streets of Alfama, taking in the stunning views from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Visit the impressive Lisbon Cathedral, where you can admire its Romanesque architecture and rich history.
For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood at a restaurant overlooking the Tagus River. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Praça do Comércio and the nearby Arco da Rua Augusta, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. As the sun starts to set, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
In the evening, head to a traditional Fado restaurant in Alfama, where you can savor authentic Portuguese cuisine while listening to soulful Fado music. After dinner, wander through the atmospheric streets of Bairro Alto, where the nightlife comes alive with bars and music. End your night with a drink at a rooftop bar, soaking in the breathtaking views of the illuminated city.
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Portugal's maritime history. Next, explore the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, where you can marvel at the intricate Manueline architecture and learn about the Age of Discoveries. Don't forget to stop by Pastéis de Belém for a taste of the original custard tarts, a must-try treat.
After lunch, visit the Museu Coleção Berardo, which houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art. Spend some time wandering through the beautiful gardens of the Praça do Império, where you can relax and enjoy the greenery. As the afternoon progresses, consider taking a tram ride along the riverside for a scenic view of the area.
For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant in Belém that specializes in traditional Portuguese dishes. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, taking in the sights of the 25 de Abril Bridge and the sunset over the water. Conclude your night with a visit to the Monument to the Discoveries, beautifully illuminated at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.5-3 |
| 🥗Lunch or light meal | $8-15 |
| 🏨1 night at a mid-range hotel | $70-150 |
| 🚆Public transport (1-day pass) | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal city with hills and viewpoints
- Excellent seafood and pastry culture, plus vibrant cafe scenes
- Hilly terrain can be tiring for some visitors
- Crowds in peak season and occasional service charges in popular places
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Onde fica o [lugar]" - Where is [place]?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much is it?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Saúde" - Cheers / Bless you
Places to Visit in Lisbon
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic lookout with sweeping views over Baixa, the river, and the hills—perfect at sunset.
The iconic red suspension bridge; dramatic when lit at dusk or in blue hour with the city below.
A grand riverside square framed by arches and the Tagus; ideal for wide-angle cityscapes.
A striking fortress on the riverbank; capture from the quay or from the waterfront with boats passing by.
An ornate iron elevator with views over the Baixa and Alfama from its top terrace.
Food in Lisbon
Lisbon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded cod with potatoes, onions, eggs, and olive oil; a comforting signature dish often found in tascas (taverns).
Must-Try!
Custard tarts baked in flaky pastry; iconic when enjoyed warm, especially near Belém.
A hearty kale and potato soup with chouriço, perfect for a light meal or supper.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling food hall with top Lisbon chefs offering a mix of traditional dishes and modern bites.
A neighborhood market with vendors selling fresh produce and ready-to-eat bites, great for a casual lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or light cheek kiss among friends; use polite forms like senhor/senhora and address people formally until invited to use first names.
Be punctual for meetings; avoid loud or overly long conversations in quiet residential areas; keep tempo light and friendly in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Lisbon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is typical if service is good; many casual places do not expect tips, and some charges may be included.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures, blooming azulejos and gardens; ideal for long walks and daylight photography.
Warm and sunny with refreshing sea breezes; expect crowds in central areas; carry water and sun protection.
Mild days and cooler evenings; fewer tourists and vibrant city light as the days shorten.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; rain gear is useful, but city life remains lively and affordable.
Lisbon at Night
Hiking in Lisbon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic ocean views along Western Europe’s westernmost point; rugged headlands and sea cliffs.
Scenic routes through pine forests with sweeping panoramas over the Sintra hills.
Lush forest trails around Sintra with access to palaces, castles, and coastal cliffs.
Airports
How to reach Lisbon by plane.
Main international gateway to Lisbon; direct metro, bus, and taxi connections to the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The core population with a rich regional and cultural mix.
A broad international community from Europe, Africa, and South America.
A vibrant, youthful segment fueling the city’s nightlife, tech scene, and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national sport with strong club culture; you can catch a match or join local recreational games in parks.
Nearby beaches like Carcavelos, Estoril, and Costa da Caparica attract surfers of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lisbon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lisbon has many vegetarian-friendly spots; choose salads, grilled vegetables, beans, and rice; many places can adapt dishes; look for veggie-focused venues in Bairro Alto and Chiado.