Please note: some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you book using one of them, we’ll earn a small commission. All of our info is free to read and free of ads, so we appreciate it! Centuries ago, the ships and explorers that discovered the world did so departing from Lisbon. Today, things have flipped and its plane loads of people from all over the world coming to discover our city! Times change… And the beauty of Lisbon is that it’s a city constantly reinventing itself, so whether this is your first visit or your fifth, it never gets old. The city always has something new to do, a new place to see, a new restaurant try, or an old favorite to return to. And that golden light… it’s just not the same anywhere else. I’ve lived here for almost my entire life and despite a never-ending sense of wanderlust, I never get tired of coming back home. So, what makes Lisbon so special and so worth visiting (or living in!)? Honestly, it’s hard to explain. Sure, there are a couple of obvious tourist sights, some historic architecture, and a handful of important museums and cultural centers, but the real allure has more to do with the city’s soul. "Bonita Lisboa" (pretty Lisbon) as we sometimes call it is just a wonderful place to spend time. It’s leisurely mornings and late nights with good company. It’s neighbors chatting across windows and boats sailing down the river. It’s sunset on the waterfront and the mournful sound of Fado tumbling down the hill. It’s cobbled streets baking in the midday sun and the breeze passing through laundry hung out to dry. I hate this term, but Lisbon really is a “vibe”. Now, to see all of Lisbon would take a lifetime, so don’t get too focused on checking boxes and doing everything you read about. Instead, pick out some things that really interest you and then set aside time to just hang out and enjoy being here. Read on for my favorite things to do here and all sorts of tips and tricks for planning your visit. And for more Lisbon travel advice, check out some of our other guides: Where to stay in Lisbon Where to stay in Lisbon 3-day Lisbon itinerary 3-day Lisbon itinerary 2-day Lisbon itinerary 2-day Lisbon itinerary 1-day Lisbon itinerary 1-day Lisbon itinerary Lisbon self-guided walking tour Lisbon self-guided walking tour Best Lisbon restaurants Best Lisbon restaurants 10-day Portugal itinerary 10-day Portugal itinerary Click here to see all of our Portugal guides & itineraries Table of Contents Lisbon planning cheatsheet Plan your itinerary with expert advice Book a Portugal travel consultation with a local expert My favorite hotels in Lisbon One Palácio da Anunciada - 5-star luxury off Avenida da Liberdade. $350/night Palácio das Especiarias - Old World charm & elegance in Chiado. $200/night Pousada de Alfama - modern little hotel in the heart of Alfama. $200/night Alegria Boutique Hotel - bright and airy rooms in Principe Real. $175/night Hotel Lis Baixa - small, but cheerful rooms for a bargain in Baixa. $150/night Hotel White Lisboa - excellent value with a pool in Avenidas Novas. $140/night Guided tours and activities Private Lisbon tours with Matilde (my favorite local guide) Small group food tour Small group Sintra & Cascais day trip Small group city center walking tour Private half-day city tour by Tuk Tuk 2-hour sunset cruise How to get around Car rentals with DiscoverCars Metro and bus/tram routes with MetroLisboa and Carris Train tickets from Comboios de Portugal Long distance buses at Redes Expressos Taxis & rideshares with Uber and Bolt A (very) brief history of Lisbon Like any European capital, Lisbon is full of history, and that's where you need to start with your visit: because to get to know the city, you must know its past. Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Europe and its history dates back to the Phoenicians and, later, to the Romans, who nicknamed it "Olissipo." Later, in the 8th century, Lisbon was conquered by the Moors and ruled by them for hundreds of years. Owing to this long history of Moorish rule, even today, people from Lisbon are nicknamed "Moors" by those who live in the north of the country, particularly in Porto. The Christian conquest came in the 12th century, followed by the city's golden era, with the Age of Discoveries (15th and 16th centuries). During this time, Lisbon became a hub for the Portuguese empire and, from its quays, sailed the ships that discovered the sea route to India and other parts of the world. The Lisbon you see today is very different from what it was then though. The city was devastated by the 1755 great earthquake, which triggered a tsunami and multiple fires, and destroyed huge sections of the city. Marquês do Pombal, the ruler remembered with a giant statue on one of the city's main traffic circles, was responsible for the reconstruction and for transforming Lisbon into a more modern metropolis. Portugal's capital became the center of everything. It is where the political and financial institutions are located, as well as the headquarters of the leading companies, and where important trade, technology, and industry connections are made with the rest of the world. It also has prestigious universities and research centers. That's what makes Lisbon unique: the combination of modernity and historical and cultural heritage. New buildings stand alongside old neighborhoods, and restaurants serve modernized gourmet dishes while folks sip traditional aperitifs in longstanding local taverns right next door. And while car horns and the noise of traffic are ubiquitous everywhere nowadays, you’ll still also hear beautiful Fado tunes wafting out onto the streets. How long to spend It’s always hard to say how long people should spend anywhere without knowing why they’re visiting or what their interests are. But, if you just want some general advice, my opinion is that most people should spend at least 3 days in Lisbon, with 4 being even better. This is too short to really get to know the city, but if you’ll be traveling around more of Portugal and have limited time, it’s a decent introduction. With 3 days, you have time to see all the main tourist sights in neighborhoods like Alfama, Chiado, Baxia, and Belém, spend some time just wandering around, and maybe take a day trip to somewhere like Sintra or Cascais (or both). For any first visit, your first two days should be basically exclusively dedicated to visiting the historic center (Alfama, Baixa, and Chiado) and checking out the main monuments and landmarks on the waterfront in Belém. Then, on your third day, you have more options: you can get off the beaten path and visit some of the residential neighborhoods that most tourists don’t go to, you can cross over the river and explore Almada, check out some great museums, do some shopping, or leave the city behind altogether and take a day trip to places like Sintra, Cascais, Estoril, Nazare, the Arrabida park, or a host of other historic towns and sites all within an hour or two of Lisbon. If you want to see exactly how I’d suggest you use your time, check out my 3-day Lisbon itinerary. If you have less time, we also condensed the highlights into this 2-day Lisbon itinerary and a “short but sweet” 1-day Lisbon itinerary . Weather & when to visit For me, the best time to explore Lisbon is between March and May , when the days start to get longer, the temperatures are mild and pleasant, and you’ll have mostly sunny days. And despite the city's reputation for year-round tourism, the crowds are at least semi-reasonable during this period, so you can do your sightseeing without queuing for hours. Prices for hotels and car rentals are also much better. But let's cover all the different seasons because there really is no bad time to visit here: Visiting in Fall Autumn is very similar to spring, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 18º to 25º Celsius and the season's hues taking over the city's main parks and gardens. The visitors brought by summer have already returned home, but this is also the season when Lisboners go back to work and school, introducing increased activity to residential and office areas. With the onset of the first rains (bring a rain jacket if you’re coming in November), seeing more traffic jams on the roads is no surprise. On the other hand, roasted chestnut sellers appear in the city center and fill the air with an autumnal scent that adds even more charm to the visit. Visiting in Winter The rain is more frequent, and the cold is starting to set in. These are the coldest months in the city, with temperatures going as low as 13º Celsius or less, so include some warm clothing in your bag. If you're looking for a more cultural visit to the city's museums, this is the perfect time to do it. Moreover, the town fills up with Christmas spirit between the end of November and the beginning of January. From small markets, such as in the Alvalade neighborhood or Rossio Square, to Wonderland Lisboa, which occupies Parque Eduardo VII with an ice rink, a giant Christmas tree, plenty of Santa Claus, and seasonal food and drink. Visiting in Spring As I mentioned, Spring is the best time to visit the city. The temperature, around 18º and 23º Celsius, is inviting for late afternoons on a rooftop, and the venues are not yet too crowded. Always bring a jacket with you, as nights are still quite chilly. It's at the end of this season that Lisbon hosts two major events. The first, the Lisbon Book Fair, fills Parque Eduardo VII with thousands of books from the country's leading publishers. The second is Lisbon’s biggest commemoration. The Santos Populares celebrate Saint Anthony and flood the streets with festivities, including the Marchas Populares (a colorful parade) on Avenida da Liberdade and the so-called "bailaricos" (dance parties) in the typical neighborhoods, with popular music and the famous grilled sardines. The biggest celebration is June 12 to 13, a night when the city doesn't sleep. Visiting in Summer Like any major capital, summer is the busiest season in Lisbon, with tourists everywhere and the hottest weather. With temperatures rising as high as 35º Celsius, fresh clothing, a hat, and plenty of water are must-haves if you’re walking the streets of Lisbon, especially between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. This is an excellent time to explore the green spaces and even escape to the beach at Estoril and Cascais or cross the river to go to the beaches of Costa da Caparica. Enjoy sunsets on the beach or by the river, and let the warm evenings win you over as you experience Lisbon's vibrant nightlife, whether in Bairro Alto, at the Pink Street in Cais do Sodré, or in the Santos area. Below is a quick overview of the main Lisbon neighborhoods that I recommend to visitors. For a really detailed guide, check out our article on where to stay in Lisbon . There are an absolute ton of accommodation options in Lisbon, and new places are constantly popping up all over the city, so you’ll never struggle to find somewhere to stay here. However, prices have become very expensive in the last decade, especially during popular times of year, and many of the best options book out far in advance, so you need to plan ahead and you’ll probably need to budget more than you intended. Also, as you might guess, being one of the most popular cities in Europe does have some drawbacks, and of one of them is that Lisbon’s more central neighborhoods suffer from a fair deal of over-tourism. Keeping that in mind, here are the neighborhoods that I think are the best bet for most travelers: Baixa and Chiado - our central, busy downtown Comprising Lisbon’s historic “downtown” these two central neighborhoods are ideal for those with limited time and who want to be close to all the main sights and have good public transport connections. They’ve very touristy and quite commercial however, so may not be to everyone’s taste. They are also among the most expensive neighborhoods for hotels in the city. Montebelo Vista Alegre - A luxurious option with very design-forward rooms. Each room is unique with a mix of modern and Old World touches that are really quite pleasant. Great location too. $200-350 USD. Montebelo Vista Alegre - A luxurious option with very design-forward rooms. Each room is unique with a mix of modern and Old World touches that are really quite pleasant. Great location too. $200-350 USD. Palacio Das Especiarias - Lovely 4-star hotel with lots of elegance and Old World charm just off of Praça Luis de Camões square and steps from the Baixa-Chiado metro stop. Good pricing considering the neighborhood and amenities. It's my top suggestion for a mid-range hotel in Chiado. $220 USD. Palacio Das Especiarias - Lovely 4-star hotel with lots of elegance and Old World charm just off of Praça Luis de Camões square and steps from the Baixa-Chiado metro stop. Good pricing considering the neighborhood and amenities. It's my top suggestion for a mid-range hotel in Chiado. $220 USD. Hotel Lis Baixa - Small hotel offering simple, but nice rooms in a central Baixa location. Definitely the best cost-benefit ratio in the neighborhood. $150 USD. Hotel Lis Baixa - Small hotel offering simple, but nice rooms in a central Baixa location. Definitely the best cost-benefit ratio in the neighborhood. $150 USD. Principe Real - upscale and residential, but less central Just north of the city center but still close enough to be convenient for sightseeing, Principe Real is an affluent part of town very popular with well-off locals. Despite being on the border of Lisbon’s downtown, it’s almost completely residential and offers a pleasant and trendy, but distinctly local atmosphere. It has broad boulevards with lots of nice shops, great restaurants and cafes, and a good selection of mid to upper-tier hotels. It’s well connected to the rest of the city by metro, so is convenient for getting around as well. I really like it. Memmo Príncipe Real - Located near the neighborhood gardens, this lovely 5-star hotel has modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and a cocktail bar with panoramic city views. $250-450 USD. Memmo Príncipe Real - Located near the neighborhood gardens, this lovely 5-star hotel has modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and a cocktail bar with panoramic city views. $250-450 USD. Alegria Boutique Hotel - Very nice boutique property overlooking the wonderful Praça da Alegria square and just a minute or two from great shopping on Avenida da Liberdade (and the Avenida metro stop). The vibe mixes rustic-chic, old world, and modern, and the result is quite nice. Always a great choice. $200-250 USD. Alegria Boutique Hotel - Very nice boutique property overlooking the wonderful Praça da Alegria square and just a minute or two from great shopping on Avenida da Liberdade (and the Avenida metro stop). The vibe mixes rustic-chic, old world, and modern, and the result is quite nice. Always a great choice. $200-250 USD. 1869 Principe Real - This B&B just south of the Botanical Gardens stands out with its red tile facade. It offers nine lovely rooms and suites that are big and bright, some with private balconies. $175-250 USD (2 night minimum). 1869 Principe Real - This B&B just south of the Botanical Gardens stands out with its red tile facade. It offers nine lovely rooms and suites that are big and bright, some with private balconies. $175-250 USD (2 night minimum). Avenidas Novas - more modern and a bit removed, but pleasant and good value In between the historic center and the airport, Avenida Novas is a new neighborhood (though not that new) that’s both residential and commercial. It’s perfectly pleasant, but not super charming and certainly not uniquely Lisbon in any way. The main appeal of staying here is that it’s good value for money, you’ll be able to park a car if you’re driving, and there are lots of larger mid-range hotels. It’s not the most exciting area, but it’s nice and a good deal. H10 Duque de Loulé - Occupying an 18th-century building a block from Marques de Pombal square, this hotel stands out with pretty blue-and-white tile accents. Many of the rooms offer lovely city views. It’s very good value. $175-220 USD. H10 Duque de Loulé - Occupying an 18th-century building a block from Marques de Pombal square, this hotel stands out with pretty blue-and-white tile accents. Many of the rooms offer lovely city views. It’s very good value. $175-220 USD. Hotel White Lisboa - For those who enjoy a more minimalist atmosphere, this hotel offers spacious, well-lit rooms and an outdoor pool, directly next to a metro stop. $100-150 USD. Hotel White Lisboa - For those who enjoy a more minimalist atmosphere, this hotel offers spacious, well-lit rooms and an outdoor pool, directly next to a metro stop. $100-150 USD. Turim Saldanha Hotel - The vibe here is pretty businesslike, but the rooms are quite pleasant and very modern and the price is tough to beat. The Saldanha metro stop is just outside your front tour. $125 USD. Turim Saldanha Hotel - The vibe here is pretty businesslike, but the rooms are quite pleasant and very modern and the price is tough to beat. The Saldanha metro stop is just outside your front tour. $125 USD. How to get around Lisbon has an excellent and comprehensive public transportation system, so you can easily and quickly move all about the city without every having to get in a car. On top of that, the traffic is notoriously terrible within the city, so my recommendation is that you don’t even think about renting a car while here. Public transport and your own two feet (plus maybe a bicycle if you’re up for it), will get you everywhere you need to go without problem. In addition to the heavy traffic, parking is scarce near the main tourist attractions and in the historic neighborhoods, so even if you had a car, you’d probably have nowhere to park it. So do as I do when exploring this city: put on some good sneakers and get ready to walk. Honestly, this is the only way to really get a feel for the city’s essence anyways. First up is the metro - with its four lines that criss cross the city and trains that run from 6:30 AM until 1:00 AM, this is likely to be your best bet for getting just about everywhere. Tickets are easy to buy and you can even tap to pay with your (contactless) credit cards at the validation machines now, making it even simpler. Find routes, timetables, and more info on the official website here . Buses, trams, funiculars, and lifts For areas that aren’t covered by the metro, or routes that just aren’t convenient for it, there’s also a comprehensive network or buses, trams, funiculars, and “lifts” (really just the famous Santa Justa elevator). The trams and funiculars are mostly found in the historic center, which is too hilly for metro construction to have been feasible, while buses are basically everywhere. You can find lots more info on the trams (some of which are historic and mostly used for touristic purposes) here. And in case you’re out late into the evening and need to catch a ride, there is a limited selection of night buses that cover a few routes (there are even more night bus options during the weekend). If you want to get out into Lisbon’s surroundings, visiting nearby points of interest (Cascais, Estoril, Sintra, etc.), you can take the urban train, which departs from Cais do Sodré station. If you don't want to worry about buying tickets for any of this, you might want to look into the Lisboa Card , which includes free rides on the metro, buses, streetcars, elevators, and CP trains. It also gives access to various museums and monuments. Hop-on hop-off bus Finally, for a purely touristic (but very convenient) transport option, you can also choose one of Yellow Bus's hop-on, hop-off tours , which will take you around the city by bus, streetcar, or boat. Now, let's get down to business and talk about specific things to see and do while here. I couldn’t cover everything in a single guide, but below is a pretty long list of many of top recommendations. I’ve tried to include a nice mix of things, so along with all the standard tourist sights I’ve also tried share some personal favorites and things we locals like to do. To avoid having a list of “125 things to do in Lisbon” and to keep things organized and easier to follow, I haven’t listed every single sight I think you should check out separately. Instead, for places like the Alfama and Belém neighborhoods where there are a few things everyone always visits together, I’ve combined them into a single section with quick notes on each. If you’re going to be doing a fair deal of sightseeing (and you actually like to go inside the sites you’l be visiting), then you absolutely should buy the Lisboa Card . It costs 31-65€ and gives you access to places like the Jeronimos Monastery, Belem Tower, São Jorge Castle, and the Santa Justa Elevator (among many more). It also gives you completely free use of public transport (metro, buses, trams, and local trains), so easily pays for itself. The variable pricing is because you can buy it for anything from 24-72 hours and the price increases with the longer duration. 1. See Manueline architecture and learn about our maritime history in Belém Mosteiro dos Jerónimos Padrão dos Descobrimentos The riverside neighborhood of Belém lies on the far west of the city and well outside of the historic center. Its location at the mouth of the Tagus River - from which all ships departed Lisbon - has inextricably linked the city to Portugal’s maritime history and the Age of Discoveries. Aside from the historic importance of the area, three of Lisbon’s major tourist sights are also here, all built in Manueline architecture, a style of ornate stonework that was unique to Portugal in the early 1500s. All three sights are worth visiting in their own right, but their location along the riverfront also means that the entire area is a pleasure just to stroll around. While you’re in the area, be sure to pop into the famous Pasteis de Belém bakery to try a pastel de nata - they originated here! Mosteiro dos Jerónimos This monastery is by far Lisbon’s most iconic sight. Its construction took almost 100 years and the massive structure is magnificent with a facade and interior of outrageously intricately carved stone. The line to get in is always long, but it’s very much worth going inside, especially for the beautiful cloister. Also, don't miss the church (accessed separately) which houses the tombs of the explorer Vasco da Gama, the poet Luís de Camões, and a couple of Portuguese kings. The monastery is open every day of the week except Monday and opens at 9:30 am. Tickets cost 18€ and you should absolutely buy them in advance to not lose hours in line. Do so on the official website . Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Torre de Belém is the riverfront tower a 10-minute walk from the monastery. It was built in the 16th century as both a defensive fortification and to mark the place from which Portuguese navigators departed for distant lands. You can buy a ticket to go inside the tower, but the interior is quite plain and the view from the top isn’t much different from the ground level. So, I don’t usually recommend it unless you’re particularly interested in medieval architecture. The real appeal is the building’s beautiful exterior, its lovely location, and the sense you can get for what it would have felt like when explorers sailed past such a monument on their way to the New World. Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument of Discoveries) A pleasant walk along the river back in the direction of the city center brings you to right in front of the massive Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a monument built to celebrate the Age of Discoveries. Although built in similar style to the tower and monastery, it’s actually very modern, having been built in the 1950s. It’s shaped kind of like an abstract sail boat and is carved with the figures of kings, navigators, and scientists who played a role in this crucial time in our country’s history. Because most people have no clue who the carvings depict, the monument isn’t very interesting. But… if you read its Wikipedia page ahead of time to have a sense of who everyone is, it’s a lot more meaningful. 2. Modern architecture at MAAT The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT). Photo: Herbert wie , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Before I say anything about this museum, I want to note that I do not in any way think that it’s the second most important thing you should do in Lisbon. This list isn’t in any specific order (although perhaps that would have been a good idea…) and I’ve just included this here because it’s also in Belém and only 10 minutes away from the Padrão dos Descobrimentos. So you should visit while you’re in the area! The MAAT is the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology and, in my opinion, the reason to visit is more for the building itself than the exhibits inside. Right on the river esplanade, it’s an incredible piece of modern architecture. There are always people hanging out on the steps and you get a great of the 25 de Abril bridge. It’s outstanding. The museum’s exhibits are nice too, but when I visit, it’s just to walk along the river and gawk at the architecture. 3. Castelo de São Jorge The view from the castle's walls. Photo: Simon Burchell , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons In the medieval neighborhood of Alfama and on top of Lisbon’s highest hill, the castle looms over the entire city, providing both a stunning backdrop and a cool visual reminder of the fact that Portugal was ruled by the Moors for almost 500 years. There’s actually very little to do inside the castle itself, but walking along its ramparts is always lovely and provides some of the best views you’ll get while here. Because some people visit Sintra and go to the Moorish Castle there, they often skip visiting the castle in Lisbon. You really shouldn’t as it’s a lovely way to spend an hour or two (and you’ll be nearby in Alfama anyways). In the colder months the castle is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm 9 (last entry at 5:30), but from March to October it stays open until 9:00 pm. To avoid crowds, I prefer going right at opening or at the end of the day - it’s especially pleasant at sunset and also actually quite cool at night. 4. Historic sights and iconic viewpoints in Alfama The view from Miradouro das Portas do Sol The rooftop of São Vicente de Fora. Photo: Gerd Eichmann , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped The Panteão Nacional. Photo: Arne Müseler / www.arne-mueseler.com , CC BY-SA 3.0 DE , via Wikimedia Commons As I just mentioned, Alfama is Lisbon’s medieval quarter and it’s one of my favorite places to wander around. It’s the city’s oldest neighborhood - the only one that survived the 1755 earthquake - and so the architecture and streetscape here is completely different from the rest of the city. Instead of the wide avenues and colorful, elegant buildings you'll find right nearby in Baixa and Chiado, here you get a maze of narrow alleyways, steep staircases, and white buildings with red tiles tumbling down toward the river. It's touristy and crowded, but it’s beautiful and classic Lisbon. Because there is a lot to see in the neighborhood, but relatively few places that I consider “absolute must dos” (and also because they’re all close to each other), rather than list each place as a separate entry in the guide, I’m just giving a bullet point list here with some quick notes on my favorite spots. For more info on the area check out our self-guided walking tour of Lisbon’s historic center (it’s a full-day “tour”, but the afternoon is for Alfama) and my Alfama neighborhood guide . The Panteão Nacional (National Pantheon) An impressive 17th-century baroque church converted into a mausoleum that serves as the burial place for many important Portuguese figures such as Almeida Garrett, the Fado singer Amália Rodrigues, and even the great soccer player Eusébio. I always feel a sense of grandeur while standing in the middle of the building and looking up at the dome while the breeze whistles around me. Perplexingly (for me anyways) there’s rarely anyone else here. If you visit on a Tuesday or Saturday, be sure to stop by the Feira de Ladra (Lisbon’s flea markert), which takes place in the the nearby Campo de Santa Clara. Igreja de São Vicente de Fora Just like with the Panteão, I think it’s too bad that more people don’t visit this church. A former monastery from the 17th century (although built originally in the 12th century), its rooftop offers great views of the neighborhood and river and inside it has a terrific collection of Poruguese tiles. It’s a quick stop and the entrance is only 8€. Located right at the border between Alfama and Baixa, our cathedral was built over 800 years ago and is the city’s oldest church. I’ve included it in this list because it’s historically important and an obligatory mention, but if I’m being totally honest,the interior is quite plain so don’t feel bad if you give it a skip. Also, right next door is Igreja de Santo António de Lisboa, dedicated to the city's patron saint, which has a prettier interior and is free (the Cathedral costs 7€)… Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol These two viewpoints are just around the corner from each other and are among the best in town. Santa Luzia is especially lovely in the morning, when golden light hits its romantic, bougainvillea-draped terrace and tiled panels (which depict scenes from the city's history). The view from Portas do Sol is, frankly, pretty similar, but also worth checking out. If you’re interested in learning a little bit more about Fado (a style of “mournful” music that is unique to Portugal and heavily associated with Lisbon), then the Fado Museum is definitely worth a stop. It’s a well curated museum that outlines the origins and development of the style, tells about the lives and careers of important artists, and has lots of cool instruments, objects, costumes, etc. on display. Not everyone will care about visiting, but it’s a good museum. 5. Squares, boulevards, and elevators of Baixa Praça do Comercio. Photo: Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Santa Justa elevator (and the line to get on) Praça do Rossio Rossio train station Baixa is the riverfront neighborhood right in between Alfama and Chiado (another neighborhood, which I’ll mention soon). Once our commercial downtown and now a major shopping and tourist area, it was completely rebuilt following a massive earthquake in 1755 and, thus, feels totally different from Alfama. It’s almost entirely flat, built in a neat grid, and is expansive instead of claustrophobic, with wide avenues and open squares. The architecture is grand and elegant and it very much feels like being in a big, important capital city. All day and night the area is full of shoppers, touts, and tourists hustling between stores and sights. The commercial and touristy atmosphere mean it’s not an area I spend a lot of time in, but I live here and there are lots of interesting sights, so you should absolutely spend an hour or two checking it out. You can hit most of the sights simply by walking from Praça do Comercio to Praça do Rossio, all along Rua Augusta. Because you don’t need to go inside any of the places you’ll be stopping at, you could visit everything in as little as an hour if you’re a fast walker (and are able to resist the temptation to do some shopping). Here are the places I’d be sure to visit: Praça do Comercio Our principal square, Praça do Comércio is a huge open space directly in front of the river. Its tiled pavement is classic Lisbon style and elegant arcades line it on all sides. Some locals refer to the square as the city's "living room" because we all like to go there for a little break at one time or another, even if only to quickly take in the breathtaking view of the river. Lots of events are hosted here, so it’s always worth taking a peak to see if anything is going on. Rua Augusta was historically one of the city’s most important streets and remains one today, although more for its beauty than its use. Fully pedestrianized and lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes (almost all of them tourist traps), it’s connected to Praça do Comercio by the Arco da Rua Augusta, a lovely arch on the squares northern side. The street runs all the way up to Praça do Comercio, another important square. Santa Justa Elevator On a parallel street to Rua Augusta, this famous cast-iron elevator connects the low Baixa area with hilltop Bairro Alto. If you look at it and sense a certain resemblance to the Eiffel Tower, that’s because there is one! It was built in 1902 by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, who was a disciple of Gustave Eiffel. Because of the huge lines, the elevator is useless as a means of transportation, but it does offer an excellent view from the top. I can’t ever be bothered to wait to go up (and you can get plenty of similar views elsewhere), but if you happen to pass by on a day with no crowd, it’s nice to do. And regardless of the ride and view, it’s just a wonderful piece of architecture, so always worth stopping by. Praça do Rossio Although Praça do Comercio is technically the city’s main square, it’s really Praça do Rossio (also called Praça Dom Pedro IV). When I’m meeting friends in the center to go for a walk or head elsewhere, this is always where we meet and you’ll see people from all over the city and the world here.

Aside from great people watching, there are also two fabulous buildings to check out: Rossio train station and Teatro Nacional D. Maria II . The train station is just that, a train station, but built in lovely Neo-Manueline style and beautiful both on its facade and its interior. Go inside. The theater is the most important in all of Portugal and worth having a look at for the Neoclassic architecture even if you aren’t able to catch a show. 6. Go for a walk in Chiado Praça Luis de Camões A Brasileira cafe Staircases in all directions Largo de São Carlos Chiado is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Lisbon and I often come here just to wander around. Although right next to Baixa, it feels less commercial, less tourist-oriented, and a lot more pleasant. To be clear, lots of tourists visit and a few specific places are always packed, but because it has no major sights, the crowds are much smaller and if you go a block or two away from popular squares or cafes, suddenly it feels quiet and more local; a little like Lisbon before the tourist boom. I genuinely think this area is best for aimless meandering, so I’m hesitant to mark out any specific sights, but… some orientation is nice so here you go: Praça Luis de Camões A gorgeous square lined with restaurants and cafes. If you want to try a good pastel de nata (pastel de Belem), Manteigaria is on one corner of the square and is super popular and crowded, but also quite good. A busy street with two famous sites: Livraria Bertrand (supposedly one of the oldest bookstores in the world) and A Brasileia , a historic cafe that was a favorite meeting place for many Portuguese writers. The cafe is now kind of a tourist trap, but it’s still iconic and pretty, so worth looking inside or having a coffee at the counter (don’t sit down). Convento do Carmo This convent was partially destroyed in the 1755 earthquake that leveled most of Lisbon, but its arches and pillar remain standing and it’s very cool to walk through while looking up at the sky. The square it’s on, Largo do Carmo , is also a favorite of mine. São Roque Church Just up the road from the convent is this little church whose plain facade hides a gorgeous interior. I actually think it’s the prettiest church in the city. 7. Visit at least one of our museum’s Carriages in the National Coach Museum. Photo: Geerd-Olaf Freyer from Aachen, Deutschland , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons The São Vicente Panels in the Museu de Arte Antiga. Photo: Nuno Gonçalves , Public domain , via Wikimedia Commons An exhibit inside the Casa Fernando Pessoa museum I know that everyone gets museum fatigue (me too, me too) and that no one comes to Lisbon specifically for our great cultural centers, but we do have quite a few worth visiting. None of them are “must dos” so rather than recommend just one or two, I’m listing 7 good ones so you can see if anything piques your interest. If not, then skip them! Museu Nacional dos Coches As the name implies, this museum is dedicated to the coaches and carriages once used by Portugal's royal families and nobility. The detail, richness, and splendid decoration of these “vehicles” is seriously impressive. Make sure to take a look at the carriage in which the last King of Portugal was assassinated, where you can see the holes left by the bullets fired in the attack. This is the museum that I typically recommend to visitors who don’t have strong art preferences (people are generally surprised at how cool it is) and I also think it works well if you’re traveling with kids. Lisbon Story Center All of the museum’s I’ve mentioned so far cover some specific art form, topic, or period of history. This one, on the other hand, covers a city; Lisbon! Through interactive multimedia exhibits, and with an excellent audioguide, the museum takes visitors through Lisbon’s entire history, from Phoenician times through to the modern day. The museum is designed to take exactly one hour to visit, so it doesn’t take up a lot of your time and you’ll leave with a much better understanding of the place you’re visiting. I think it’s actually a really nice thing to do right at the start of your trip. Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga If your taste runs more to the classics, the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga (National Museum of Ancient Art) should be up your alley. The museum’s collection includes more than 40,000 items and covers a huge range of art forms: sculpture, metalworking and jewelry, painting, ceramics, textiles, and others. While Portuguese art is one of the museum’s focuses, they also have works from all over the world - Asia, Africa, elsewhere in Europe, and even the Americas. The “São Vicente Panels” by Nuno Gonçalves and the “Adoração dos Magos” (Adoration of the Magi) by Domingos António de Sequeira are two of the best-known works of Portuguese painting, and my national pride insists that I suggest you check them out. Oceanário de Lisboa For anyone who loves aquariums, or is perhaps traveling with kids who do, this is a great spot to visit. One of the largest aquariums in the world, there’s a vast array of different marine life to be seen, especially the gigantic main tank that has no shortage of sharks! It’s located well outside of the center in modern Parque das Nações, so you’ll have to catch the subway to get out here. A trip here is also a good excuse to have a look around the neighborhood, which is quite different from the other areas you’ll have likely visited during your trip. Casa Fernando Pessoa Located in a quiet section of the Campo de Ourique neighborhood, I love this little museum that is entirely dedicated to the life and work of important Portuguese writer Fernando Pessoa. If you’ve read any of his work, visiting here is really interesting. Unfortunately, the exhibits are all in Portuguese, but there are free English tours every Sunday at 11:00 am. The museum’s restaurant is also excellent and the surrounding neighborhood is full of even more good dining options. Centro de Ciência Viva Another great choice if you’re visiting Lisbon with kids in tow, the Science Center is a wonderfully interactive and informative museum that will surely entertain your little ones (and probably you too). Centro Interpretativo da História do Bacalhau (the codfish museum) During your visit to Portugal, whether you like it or not, cod will simply be a part of your life. After all, the Portuguese have a thousand and one ways of cooking this fish, and it will be on the menu at almost every restaurant. So, if you want to better understand our close relationship with cod and its significance to the Portuguese country and people, you can do it here. Located in the East Tower in Praça do Comércio, this little museum is fun, interactive, and quick to visit. It’s not going to blow your mind, but you’ll learn a bit about an interesting piece of Portuguese culture. The AC is also always strong and entry is included if you have a “Lisboa card”, so why not? 8. Eat well and and hang with the locals in Campo de Ourique The food hall in Campo de Ourique Market. Photo: Mercado de Campo de Ourique, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikime d ia Commons The Rua (street) Coelho da Rocha takes you right through one of the city's most beloved neighborhoods: Campo de Ourique. This area, apart from being the place where the famous writer Fernando Pessoa chose to live in the 1920s, is where you’ll find the beloved Campo de Ourique Market (a market and food hall that is much more authentic and local than the Time Out Market), along with lots of grocery stores, traditional cafés, local restaurants, and so-called "neighborhood stores." This is one of the best parts of the city for dining and there are loads of interesting restaurants offering all different types of cuisines. It’s also almost totally unvisited by tourists, so prices are good and everything feels “authentic”. For nice people watching (or a beer or coffee), I always like heading to Jardim da Parada , the area’s shaded main square where it seems everyone in the neighborhood comes in the afternoons to chat and mingle. You’ll see retirees chatting and playing cards, families going for a walk, kids kicking soccer balls, and young people chatting over drinks. If you want a taste of real Lisbon life, this is the perfect place to go for a wander. 9. Relax (or have a picnic!) in Jardim da Estrela Jardim da Estrela Jardim da Estrela The Jardim Guerra Junqueiro, better known as Jardim da Estrela , is easily one of our nicest green spaces. It’s a romantic 4-hectare garden that’s full of beautiful trees, gravel pathways, lawns, a beautiful iron bandstand, and even a lake with koi. It’s always a favorite place for locals, expats, and now more and more tourists to hang out and escape the busy city. It’s a little out of the way from the main tourist areas, but is super lovely and great for anything from a walk to a mid-day nap. Personally, I think it’s best for a picnic! And because it’s only 10 minutes away from the Campo de Ourique market, you can easily head there to stock up on “supplies” and then walk over to the park to snack. 10. Pop by Parque Eduardo VII Parque Eduardo VII Another favorite green space, this enormous manicured park is at the end of Avenida da Liberdade. It’s more of a “view it” than a “relax in it” park, but it’s really pretty and it has good views down onto the river. From Baixa, it’s a solid 30-40 minute walk here (although a really pleasant one), but you can also arrive via metro or the hop-on hop-off bus. While here, be sure to check out the Estufa Fria de Lisboa , a garden within a garden. It’s a very cool little greenhouse where you can follow paths that take you through lush vegetation and hundreds of plant species from all over the world. 11. See a performance at Centro Cultural de Belém The entrance to the complex. Photo: Vitor Oliveira from Torres Vedras, PORTUGAL , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons The Centro Cultural de Belém is one of Portugal’s leading cultural venues, and it’s a massive complex that puts on all sorts of performances and events - from concerts and film screenings to operas, plays, and the ballet. It’s always worth checking the event calendar (link to website above) to see if they have any shows/performances going on during your visit. The complex also has an exhibition center that includes numerous galleries dedicated to different art forms and styles, including a collection of works by artists like Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, and Andy Warhol (among many others). 12. Shopping and drinks in Principe Real Shops and restaurants line Rua Dom Pedro V. Photo: Erik Cooper from Chicago, United States , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Inside the very cool EmbaiXada shopping center in Principe Real. Photo: Jules Verne Times Two , CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Principe Real is one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city. It’s a leafy, upper middle class area that with an elegant but relaxed atmosphere, great shopping, and probably the best dining scene in the city. If you find yourself trying to figure out what to do with a free afternoon or evening while in town, going for a walk, some shopping, and a meal and drinks here is always a terrific decision. There are good cool boutique shops all around the neighborhood, but the best concentration of them is found in two places: along Rua Dom Pedro V and in the very cool EmbaiXada shopping center (which is housed inside a totally unique Neo-Moorish palace. For a meal or some drinks, you have a whole bunch of great options lining Jardim Fialho de Almeida (a little square) and its side streets. For more ideas, have a look at my guide to Principe Real . 13. Hunt down as many of our “Miradouros” (viewpoints) as you can The view from the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara in Bairro Alto The view from Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte in Graça The advantage of visiting a city built across hills is that you have lots of opportunities to see it from different angles. And Lisbon offers this up in spades, with more viewpoints than you could possibly make it to in a single visit. My favorites are the Miradouro das Portas do Sol and the Miradouro de Santa Luzia which I mentioned before in the section on Alfama. Here are some others: Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte - In Graça, this is the highest viewpoint in the city. Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte - In Graça, this is the highest viewpoint in the city. Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen - Also in Graça, this is the official name but I’ve never actually heard anyone refer to it that way. We all just call it Miradouro da Graça. Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen - Also in Graça, this is the official name but I’ve never actually heard anyone refer to it that way. We all just call it Miradouro da Graça. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara - Great square and viewpoint in Bairro Alto. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara - Great square and viewpoint in Bairro Alto. If that’s not enough, you also have some new viewing platforms and experiences: Pilar 7 Experience or the 360º view at the top of Tower 1 in the Amoreiras Shopping Center . 14. Take a sunset cruise on the Tejo River Sailing under the 25 de Abril bridge Being on the banks of the Tejo and not enjoying the river is unthinkable. In addition to having a drink on one of the riverside terraces, go further and embark on a small cruise to watch the sunset. Several companies operate tours and they usually depart from right near Praça do Comercio and cruise past Terreiro do Paço, under the 25 de Abril Bridge, and all the way out to the Torre de Belém. It’s pretty tough not to fall in love with Lisbon as the city gets bathed in that warm and golden end-of-day light. This 2-hour sailing tour is a nice option if you’d like to buy in advance. 15. Stay up way too late partying in Cais do Sodré and Bairro Alto Pink Street in Cais do Sodre. Photo: Benjamín Mejías Valencia from Santiago, Chile , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped Busy Travessa do Poço da Cidade in Bairro Alto.. Photo: Jorge Franganillo , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped If you’re looking for nightlife, Cais do Sodré and Bairro Alto are certainly two places where you’ll find it. In Cais do Sodré, Pink Street has been Lisbon’s most famous nightlife street for around a decade and is always packed with partiers who spill out of its bars and nightclubs. The scene is pretty young and fairly rowdy (though not crazy), so best for people in their 20s and early 30s. I long ago aged out of this area (although I’m also not sure I ever aged into it either…) but Pensão Amor , a burlesque house that puts on shows, concerts, and DJ acts is a cool venue. Another good spot for dancing the night away is Incógnito , one of the city's first alternative venues. If you’re after a more relaxed vibe, then Bairro Alto is great. It’s packed with bars that get busy from evening and stay open until anywhere from 1-3 am. You’ll sometimes find live music at places, but it’s mostly a mix of dive bars, wine bars, and cool cocktail spots and people spill out onto the sidewalks chatting and mingling. It’s a very social and fun atmosphere. There are too many spots to list, but you have dozens of bars all along Travessa do Poço da Cidade and the streets leading off from it in a roughly 10 block radius. For more info, see my guide to Bairro Alto . 16. Catch a Fado show Fado musicians. Photo: Pacopac , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Going to Lisbon and not seeing a Fado show is like going to Rome and not visiting the Vatican. Ok, I mean, not really, but it’s a nice thing to do while you’re here! When I have friends who want to see a show, I always recommend Mesa de Frades (in Alfama), Adega Machado , or O Faia (both in Bairro Alto). Dinner shows usually last 2-3 hours, so you should be prepared for a decently long evening. 17. Climb up the 25 de Abril bridge The 25 de Abril Bridge. Photo: Unianayet , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Unlike other bridges worldwide, the 25 de Abril Bridge is closed to people on foot, but since 2017, it has been possible to climb up one of its pillars. It's called the Pilar 7 Experience , and you can take the elevator next to the bridge pillar on Avenida da Índia and then climb up to the deck to enjoy the view. It’s included in the Lisboa Card. If you’re interested, you can learn more here . 18. Check out the very cool Lx Factory A street in the LX Factory complex. Photo: Pacopac , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons In Alcântara (a somewhat out of the way but up-and-coming neighborhood), the LX Factory occupies a series of formerly abandoned warehouses which have now been repurposed to house trendy stores, restaurants, art galleries, and even tattoo parlors. They also have pop-up markets periodically, so check their website if you want to see if there’s anything new going on. Because their website rarely works, you might have better luck trying their Instagram instead. And don't leave without browsing the books in the incredible Ler Devagar bookshop, located in an old printing plant. It’s an awesome space. As with everything in central Lisbon, the space has become more commercial and expat/tourist-oriented in the last decade, but it’s still worth checking out. 19. Cristo Rei, a walk on the Almada waterfront, and a ferry ride Photo: Vitor Oliveira from Torres Vedras, PORTUGAL , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Just across the Tejo River from Lisbon is its sister city of Almada, which holds one of “Lisbon’s” most iconic sights: the Cristo Rei Sanctuary . Set on a high cliff overlooking the river, this enormous statue of Christ was built in the likeness of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, which you’ve surely seen photos of. This is an absolutely towering monument - it stands 110 meters tall (including its pedestal), and the image of Chris reaching out toward Lisbon, seemingly embracing the city, is an unforgettable sight. You’ll also enjoy incredible panoramic views over the city, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the surrounding landscape. I also think that Almada itself (and Cacilhas) are worth wandering around. They’re much more local places than central Lisbon, so feel more authentic and provide a nice glimpse into a very different Portugal. Honestly, they feel a bit like what Lisbon used to; creative, interesting, and charming, but also working class and a little hard on its luck. In Almada, the riverfront Jardim do Rio park is lovely and there’s a panoramic elevator with great views too. Cacilhas has a cool lighthouse and its waterfront is full of restaurants and bars. By far the best way to get to Almada is to take the ferry from Cais do Sodré. It costs under 2 euros, takes, just 10 minutes, and leaves a few times every hour. Keep in mind, it actually arrives to the town of Cacilhas, but it and Almada are adjacent to each other and basically form a single place. From the ferry terminal in Cacilhas, you can hop a quick bus direct to the statue. 20. Shop and eat in some of the (many) markets Vendors’ in the Feira da Ladra. Photo: Shadowgate from Novara, ITALY , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Lisbon is a city of markets, even more so since the old fruit, fish, and vegetable markets have given way to trendy places where you can have a meal or a drink. There’s the Time Out Market in the old Mercado da Ribeira , the Arroios Market , and the Campo de Ourique Market . At the organic farmers' market held every Saturday in Principe Real, you'll find fruit, vegetables, and even sweets from local producers. If you're passionate about antiques and collectibles, don't miss the classic Feira da Ladra , dating back to the 13th century, in Campo de Santa Clara (Tuesdays and Saturdays). 21. Be on the lookout for street art Photo: Maria Eklind , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original No selfie sticks! Photo: Sonse , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original Wandering around Lisbon you'll see real works of art in the form of street murals all over the city, but the best places to spot them are the neighborhoods of Graça, Santa Apolónia, São Bento, Olaias, and Marvila. The latter (Marvila) is also where you’ll find the Underdogs Gallery , a project led by Alexandre Farto, also known as Vhils, and home to several other works by local artists. 22. Walk along the Aqueduto das Águas Livres The views from the Aqueduto das Águas Livres Sunrise at the aqueduct. Photo: Jules Verne Times Two , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons You would think that climbing the great aqueduct you see from the air when landing in Lisbon would be part of every tourist itinerary, but this monument goes unnoticed by 95%+ of people. Built in the 18th century, the Aqueduto das Águas Livres is an impressive stone structure that stretches over 18 km and features 109 arches, with the tallest going as high as 65 meters (213 feet). It’s not all open to the public, but you can walk along a section that runs from the Campolide neighborhood to Parque de Monsanto. It only costs 4 euros and is a cool experience with good views. I also like it because it “forces” you to come to an area of the city that tourists rarely venture to. 23. Parque Florestal de Monsanto A section of the Parque Florestal de Monstanto seen from the road A trail in the park. Photo: Jules Verne Times Two , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Nicknamed “ O pulmão de Lisboa ” (the lung of Lisbon) this park on the western edge of the city is a huge forested area covering more than 900 hectares. To put that in perspective, consider that Central Park in NYC covers just 341. It’s full of trails and cycling paths, as well as several viewpoints, picnic areas, and children's playgrounds. If you’re a runner and looking for somewhere to get some good kilometers in, this is the place to do it. The park is very safe in the day time (and has gotten even safer in recent years) it’s a pretty isolated location, so not somewhere I recommend visiting at night, especially if you’ll be going solo. Because of its rather distant location, unless you love parks this isn’t somewhere I recommend to travelers on short stays in town. But if you’re settling in for a longer stay, it’s a great place to spend a few hours. More Portugal travel info For more advice on planning your trip to Portugal, have a look at some of our other guides and itineraries! 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When she’s not busy writing or pursuing her other passion of surfing, this Lisbon native spends her time exploring her city, all of Portugal, and much of the world! How to Spend 3 Days in Singapore - A Local’s Itinerary How to Spend 4 Days in Taipei - A Local’s Itinerary