Things to do in Lisbon
Lisbon is one of those cities you can keep exploring and never get bored of. From historic neighbourhoods and iconic viewpoints to hidden streets, local food spots, and day-to-day Lisbon life, there’s so much to see and do.
We live in Lisbon often, and these guides are based on first-hand experiences, not quick visits. Whether it’s your first time or a return trip, this collection helps you discover the best things to do in Lisbon, beyond the obvious highlights.
Top 10 attractions you shouldn’t miss in Lisbon
Jerónimos Monastery
One of Lisbon’s most impressive monuments, Jerónimos Monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. It’s closely linked to Portugal’s Age of Discoveries and rewards visitors with beautiful cloisters and rich history.
The famous Torre de Belém
Standing proudly along the Tagus River, the Belém Tower is one of Lisbon’s most recognisable sights. Once a defensive fortress, it’s now a symbol of Portugal’s maritime past and a classic stop in the Belém area.
Lisbon Cathedral
Lisbon Cathedral is the city’s oldest church and a fascinating mix of architectural styles. Located in Alfama, it’s easy to combine a visit with a walk through some of Lisbon’s most historic streets.
São Jorge Castle
Perched above the city, São Jorge Castle offers sweeping views over Lisbon’s rooftops and the Tagus River. Exploring the castle grounds is a great way to understand Lisbon’s history and layout.
Arco da Rua Augusta
This monumental arch marks the entrance to Praça do Comércio and celebrates Lisbon’s reconstruction after the 1755 earthquake. You can also climb to the top for one of the best viewpoints in the city centre.
Lisbon Oceanarium
Located in Parque das Nações, the Lisbon Oceanarium is one of Europe’s largest and most impressive aquariums. It’s a great option for families, rainy days, or anyone interested in marine life.
Santa Justa Elevator
Currently closed. The Santa Justa Elevator connects downtown Baixa with the higher Carmo area and offers great city views along the way. Whether you ride it or admire it from below, it’s one of Lisbon’s most unique landmarks.
Feira da Ladra
Feira da Ladra is Lisbon’s most famous flea market, full of antiques, vintage finds, and everyday curiosities. It’s a great place to experience local life and browse beyond the usual souvenir shops.
Shops and art at the LX Factory
The LX Factory is a former industrial complex turned famous creative hub, filled with shops, cafés, street art, and restaurants. It’s a popular spot for a relaxed visit away from Lisbon’s classic sights. Great spot to eat too!
Carmo Convent
The ruins of Carmo Convent are one of Lisbon’s most striking historic sites. Open to the sky since the 1755 earthquake, it’s both atmospheric and educational, right in the heart of the city.
Favourite tours and experiences in Lisbon
Fun photoshoot in Lisbon
A professional photoshoot is a great way to remember your time in Lisbon. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, this experience combines sightseeing with natural photography in beautiful locations.
Photography Workshops in Lisbon
These photography workshops combine sightseeing with practical learning. You’ll explore Lisbon’s most photogenic areas while improving your camera skills, guided by a local photographer. The best of two worlds!
Tuk-Tuk Tour in Lisbon
A tuk-tuk tour is a fun and comfortable way to explore Lisbon’s hills and historic neighbourhoods. It’s ideal if you’re short on time or want to see a lot without too much walking.
Visit a vineyard
Carcavelos wine is one of Portugal’s lesser-known DOC wines, produced just outside Lisbon. At Quinta da Corrieira, you can taste this historic fortified wine in a small, family-run vineyard and learn why it nearly disappeared.
Bike Tour in Lisbon
A guided bike tour lets you cover more ground while learning about Lisbon’s history and neighbourhoods. Routes usually focus on flatter areas, making this an accessible option for most visitors.
Lisbon Boat Tour on the Tagus
Seeing Lisbon from the river gives you a completely different perspective. A boat tour along the Tagus is a relaxed way to enjoy the skyline, landmarks, and fresh sea air.
Lisbon Food Tours
Food tours are a great way to experience Lisbon through its flavours. You’ll try local dishes, visit traditional spots, and learn more about Portuguese food culture along the way. Including some tasty Portuguese wine!
Must-see sights in Lisbon
Alfama neighbourhood
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood, known for its narrow streets, viewpoints, and traditional atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to wander slowly and experience the city’s authentic side.
The famous Belém district
Belém is home to some of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks, including riverside monuments, many museums, and historic monasteries. It’s an essential stop for history lovers and first-time visitors.
National Pantheon Lisbon
The National Pantheon is one of Lisbon’s most impressive buildings, with a beautiful interior and panoramic views from the roof. It’s a quieter alternative to some of the city’s busier attractions.
The best markets in Lisbon
From food halls to flea markets, Lisbon’s markets are a great way to experience daily life in the city. They’re ideal for tasting local flavours and finding unique souvenirs.
The best Lisbon viewpoints
Lisbon is famous for its miradouros, offering stunning views over rooftops, the river, and historic neighbourhoods. Visiting a few viewpoints is a must during any stay in the city.
São Vicente de Fora Monastery
São Vicente de Fora is a historic monastery with beautiful cloisters and one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon. It’s a peaceful spot that combines architecture, history, and views.
Getting around in Lisbon
Public transport in Lisbon
Lisbon’s public transport network makes getting around the city easy, even with hills and historic neighbourhoods. This guide explains trams, metro, buses, and travel passes.
Lisbon Airport guide and tips
Flying to Lisbon? This practical guide covers arrivals, terminals, departure, transport options, and what to expect when you land or depart at Lisbon Airport.
Car rental at Lisbon Airport
Renting a car at Lisbon Airport is a convenient option if you plan day trips or a road trip through Portugal. Here’s what to know before you book.
Hop-on hop-off buses in Lisbon
Hop-on hop-off buses are a relaxed way to explore Lisbon’s main sights. This guide explains routes, stops, and whether they’re worth it.
Lisbon to Sintra by train
Travelling from Lisbon to Sintra by train is easy and affordable. This guide explains stations, tickets, travel time, and useful tips. The easiest way to get to Sintra.
Sintra day trips from Lisbon
Sintra is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon. This guide covers the best palaces, routes, and tips for planning your visit.
Navigating Lisbon’s hills
Lisbon is famous for its steep streets. This guide shares practical tips on walking routes, lifts, trams, and how to move around without exhausting yourself.
Tuk-tuk tours in Lisbon
Tuk-tuks are a popular way to explore Lisbon’s historic areas quickly. Find out what to expect, typical routes, and if a tuk-tuk tour suits your trip.
Day trips from Lisbon
From castles and coastal towns to nature and historic cities, there are plenty of great day trips from Lisbon. This guide helps you choose where to go and how to get there.
Other Lisbon travel tips
2 days in Lisbon: the highlights
Short on time in Lisbon? This two-day plan packs in classic sights, great viewpoints, and easy neighbourhood combos without rushing nonstop.
3 days in Lisbon: the ideal route
With three days, you can slow down and add extra neighbourhoods, markets, and a few hidden corners while still covering the must-sees.
First time in Lisbon: what to know
New to Lisbon? This guide covers the essentials, how to plan your days, what to book ahead, and the common mistakes to avoid. Tips from a local.
Lisbon with kids: stress-free tips
From playgrounds and easy transport to kid-friendly sights and snack stops, this guide helps you enjoy Lisbon with the whole family.
Shopping malls in Lisbon: best picks
Need practical shopping, air-con, or a rainy-day backup? These Lisbon malls are the easiest for brands, food courts, and quick essentials.
Lisbon seasons: what to expect
Wondering about weather, crowds, and what Lisbon feels like through the year? Here is how each season compares, month by month.
Christmas in Lisbon: lights and markets
From decorations and Christmas markets to festive food and cosy neighbourhoods, this guide helps you plan a Lisbon winter trip with ease.
Lisbon with rain: what to do
A rainy forecast does not ruin your trip. These ideas include museums, cosy cafés, viewpoints between showers, and easy indoor swaps.
Shopping in Lisbon: where to go
Looking for unique souvenirs, Portuguese brands, and beautiful ceramics? Here are my favourite shopping streets, shops, and markets.
Lisboa Card: is it worth it?
Not sure if the Lisboa Card pays off? This guide breaks down what is included, discounts, when it makes sense, and when you should skip it.
Proposing in Lisbon: best spots and tips
Planning a proposal trip? Find scenic viewpoints, quiet corners, and practical tips to keep it relaxed, meaningful, and well-timed.
Best Lisbon tours: my favourites
Want to see more in less time? These are my go-to tours for first-timers and return visitors, from classic highlights to local experiences.
Museums in Lisbon: from classics to hidden gems
MAAT Museum Lisbon
A striking riverside museum where contemporary art, architecture and technology come together, right along the Tagus.
National Coach Museum
Home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of royal carriages, showcasing centuries of Portuguese history.
National Tile Museum
Discover the history of Portugal through its iconic azulejos, set inside a former convent filled with beautiful details.
Gulbenkian Museum
One of Lisbon’s best museums for art lovers, combining world-class collections with peaceful gardens in the city centre.
Quake Museum Lisbon
An interactive experience in Belém that brings the 1755 Lisbon earthquake to life through immersive storytelling and modern technology.
Fado Museum in Alfama
A museum dedicated to fado music, exploring the voices, stories and emotions behind Portugal’s most famous sound.
Popular Art Museum
A look at Portuguese folk art, traditions and crafts, offering insight into everyday life across the country.
Green Spaces in Lisbon
Best Parks in Lisbon
From large city parks to quiet green corners, Lisbon has plenty of places to slow down and escape the busy streets. These parks are ideal for a walk, a picnic, or a break between sightseeing stops.
Tropical Botanic Garden Lisbon
This lesser-known garden near Belém feels like a small world tour, with plants from former Portuguese colonies and shaded paths that stay cool even on warm days.
Botanical Garden Lisbon
Hidden just off Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon’s Botanical Garden is a peaceful place filled with old trees, winding paths, and surprising viewpoints over the city.
Estufa Fria Greenhouses
Located in Parque Eduardo VII, Estufa Fria is a unique greenhouse complex with tropical plants, waterfalls, and quiet walkways right in the heart of the city. A hidden gem in the city!
Lisbon Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lisbon worth visiting?
Yes, Lisbon is one of Europe’s most rewarding city destinations. It combines historic neighbourhoods, viewpoints, food culture, and easy day trips, all at a relaxed pace.
How many days do you need in Lisbon?
I recommend 3 to 4 days to see the main sights without rushing. With 5 days or more, you can add day trips to places like Sintra, Cascais, or Arrábida Natural Park.
What is the best time to visit Lisbon?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for sightseeing. Summer is great for atmosphere but can be hot and busy. Winter is mild and quieter, with fewer crowds.
Is Lisbon safe for tourists?
Yes, Lisbon is considered very safe. Like any major city, be aware of pickpocketing in busy areas such as trams and viewpoints, but violent crime is rare.
Do you need a car in Lisbon?
No. Lisbon is easy to explore using public transport, walking, and ride-shares. A car is only useful if you plan to explore outside the city or do multiple day trips.