Things To Do
in Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is renowned for its rich history, architectural marvels, and vibrant cultural landscape, perched on seven hills that overlook the Tagus River. The city effortlessly blends traditional heritage, such as the historic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, with contemporary life, evident in its bustling nightlife, innovative art scenes, and gastronomy.
Lisbon's charming streets, adorned with colorful tiles and iconic yellow trams, invite visitors to explore its unique neighborhoods, each offering a distinct flavor of the city's timeless allure.
- "olá" - hello
- "obrigado" - thank you
- "por favor" - please
- "desculpe" - excuse me/sorry
- "até logo" - see you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in the historic district of Alfama, wandering through its narrow streets. Don’t miss the stunning views from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia.
Visit the iconic São Jorge Castle for a glimpse into Lisbon's past, then take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Baixa. Stop for a coffee in one of the local cafes and savor a pastéis de nata.
Enjoy a traditional Fado dinner in Alfama, experiencing the soulful music that defines Portuguese culture. Wind down with a nightcap at a rooftop bar overlooking the city.
Head to Belém and start with a visit to the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterward, explore the nearby Torre de Belém, a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
Taste the famous pastéis de Belém at the pastry shop that invented them, then visit the MAAT for modern art and architecture. Enjoy a pleasant walk along the riverfront promenade.
Dine at a riverfront restaurant and savor fresh seafood dishes while enjoying the sunset. Take a leisurely evening stroll along the Tagus River, soaking in the views of the illuminated sights.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Mild Mediterranean climate
- Affordable cost of living compared to other Western European capitals
- Vibrant arts and food scene
- Beautiful architecture and scenic views
- Friendly and welcoming locals
- Good public transportation system
- Increasing expat community
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Public services may be less efficient
- Traffic congestion in certain areas
- Higher tourist numbers can lead to overcrowding
- Housing market has been rising rapidly
- Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers
- Summer heat can be intense
- Certain neighborhoods may have safety concerns
Best Activities in Lisbon
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Rent a bike and enjoy a scenic ride along the Atlantic coast, taking in the beautiful views and refreshing sea breeze.
Explore the stunning landscapes of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, offering a variety of hiking trails through lush forests, rugged coastline, and historic sites.
Experience the thrill of surfing at Guincho Beach, known for its excellent waves and ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lisbon with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lisbon
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River
Provides stunning views of the city and river
Features a beautiful vantage point overlooking the old town and river
Food in Lisbon
Lisbon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular salted cod dish, mixed with onions, thinly chopped potatoes, and scrambled eggs, often served with olives and parsley. Try it at Taberna da Rua das Flores.
Must-Try!
These iconic custard tarts with a crispy, flaky crust are a must-try. Visit Manteigaria or Pastéis de Belém for some of the best in the city.
Clams cooked in olive oil, garlic, and coriander, offering a fresh and tangy flavor. Enjoy them at Cervejaria Ramiro.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lisbon better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling food hall featuring a wide array of culinary offerings from renowned chefs and local vendors. Don't miss the seafood at Sea Me and the sushi at Chef Kiko.
This historic market has a vast selection of food stalls and is a great place to sample traditional Portuguese dishes and delicacies.
A vibrant square hosting various food vendors, offering an authentic experience of local street food flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lisbon, it is common to greet people with a handshake and a kiss on the cheek, especially when meeting someone for the first time or in a social setting. It is important to follow this custom as a sign of respect and friendliness.
It is important to be mindful of personal space in Lisbon. While people are generally warm and friendly, it is important to respect their personal space and avoid standing too close or being overly touchy during conversations.
Punctuality is valued in Lisbon, so it is important to be on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments. Additionally, using polite language and showing respect towards elders is highly regarded in Portuguese culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lisbon with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lisbon
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lisbon, Portugal, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. Tipping around 5-10% of the total bill is customary in restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service was good. It's also common to round up the fare for taxi rides.
In Lisbon, Portugal, cash is widely used for small purchases and in local markets, but credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Contactless payments are also becoming more popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lisbon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and various cultural events such as music festivals and parades.
Ideal for beach lovers and outdoor activities, with warm temperatures and lively atmosphere.
Great for mild weather, fewer crowds, and enjoying the stunning fall foliage in nearby areas.
Good for exploring indoor attractions, experiencing traditional holiday festivities, and enjoying lower hotel rates.
Lisbon at Night
Hiking in Lisbon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning natural park located just outside of Lisbon, offering a variety of trails that wind through lush forests, rugged coastline, and beautiful viewpoints.
Known for its breathtaking cliffs and pristine beaches, this park features several hiking trails that provide spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape.
Located within the city limits of Lisbon, this urban park offers numerous trails through wooded areas, providing a great escape into nature without having to travel far.
A scenic coastal trail that runs between Cascais and Estoril, offering beautiful ocean views and easy access to charming beaches along the way.
This mountain range is home to a mix of easier and challenging trails that lead to historical landmarks, such as the Pena Palace, and provide stunning panoramas of the surrounding area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lisbon through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lisbon by plane.
The main international airport in Lisbon, serving as a hub for international and domestic flights.
Another name for Lisbon Portela Airport, it is located 7 km northeast of Lisbon city center.
Located approximately 278 km south of Lisbon, this airport serves the Algarve region and is a significant gateway for tourists.
Located about 460 km south of Lisbon in Seville, Spain, it serves as an international gateway to southern Spain and is approximately a 4.5-hour drive from Lisbon.
Located about 640 km east of Lisbon, this major international airport is in Madrid, Spain, and offers extensive international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Lisbon, representing the native population of Portugal.
A significant number of residents in Lisbon are from Brazil, contributing to the city's multicultural environment.
Many Angolans have settled in Lisbon, continuing historical ties between the two countries.
The Cape Verdean community is prominent in Lisbon, often involved in local culture and economy.
The Guinean presence in Lisbon adds to the city’s diverse demographic landscape.
A growing Chinese community has established itself in Lisbon, contributing to local commerce.
The Romani population in Lisbon plays a role in the city's cultural diversity.
Includes residents from various European countries, contributing to the multicultural urban fabric.
Includes individuals from various African nations beyond Portugal's former colonies.
A mix of individuals from Asia, North America, and South America, contributing to the city's cosmopolitan character.
The Soul of Lisbon
Discover the essence of Lisbon through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Lisbon, with famous clubs like Sport Lisboa e Benfica and Sporting CP. The city has a passionate fan base and hosts numerous matches at Estádio da Luz and Estádio José Alvalade.
Basketball is also a significant sport in Lisbon, with local teams such as the Lisbon Lions gaining popularity. The sport has a strong following, and many young athletes participate in local leagues.
Lisbon hosts the annual Lisbon Marathon, which attracts international participants. The scenic route through the city along the Tagus River makes it a popular event among runners.
With its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is a hub for surfing enthusiasts. The nearby beaches like Carcavelos and Ericeira are famous for their excellent surfing conditions.
Cycling is becoming increasingly popular in Lisbon, with numerous bike paths and rental services available. The city has hosted various cycling events and promotes cycling as a sustainable mode of transport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lisbon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Lisbon has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. Terra and Ao 26 - Vegan Food Project offer diverse and creative plant-based menus.
Many restaurants in Lisbon are attentive to gluten-free requirements, with dishes clearly marked on their menus. The Decadente and The Food Temple are excellent choices for gluten-free dining.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lisbon with these cultural adventures.
