Planning a trip to Portugal and curious about the best things to do in Lisbon? This guide has you covered. Lisbon, with its clanging trolleys, stunning churches, and iconic blue-tiled buildings, offers a vibrant mix of history and charm. After spending a month exploring this captivating city, I’ve uncovered its top sights and hidden gems. From historic landmarks like the Castle of São Jorge to lively rooftop bars, Lisbon is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. Join me as I share my favorite things to do in this historic European capital.
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Table of Contents
Lisbon’s Top Attractions & Sights
18 Best Things to do in Lisbon
1. Enjoy a Miradouro of Lisbon
One of the must-do activities in Lisbon is visiting the city’s breathtaking viewpoints, or miradouros. Lisbon’s hilly landscape provides stunning vantage points scattered throughout the city, each offering unique perspectives.
These viewpoints are free to access and are among my top recommendations for exploring Lisbon. Some even have charming cafés where you can enjoy a pastry, coffee, or a glass of wine while soaking in the views. Popular spots can get crowded, especially at sunset, so I suggest marking your map with the miradouros you want to visit. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia: Nestled in the Alfama neighborhood, this viewpoint offers incredible views of the ocean and the rooftops below. It’s an ideal spot to catch the sunset.
- Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara: For sweeping panoramic views of the city, this miradouro is hard to beat. There’s also a lovely café here with some of the most stunning views in Lisbon.
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: The highest miradouro in Lisbon, this spot offers fantastic views from every angle, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective of the city.
- Miradouro da Graça: Although under construction during my visit, I was able to enjoy a small section of this viewpoint, and the views were still beautiful.
2. Sightsee the Top Attractions in Lisbon
Sightseeing Lisbon’s top attractions is a must, even though some areas can be quite touristy. The city is home to many famous sites, and while some may feel a bit overrated, others are absolutely worth the visit.
I recommend visiting these spots early in the morning, as they tend to get crowded by noon and only become busier as the day goes on. Here are some top Lisbon attractions that are definitely worth your time:
Top Lisbon Attractions Worth Visiting
- Praça do Comércio: One of Lisbon’s most iconic public squares, known for its grand statues and the impressive Arco da Rua Augusta, steeped in historical significance.
- Castle of São Jorge: This famous castle offers panoramic views over Lisbon, making it a must-see landmark.
- Time Out Market: A bustling market featuring a wide variety of amazing food vendors, showcasing the best of local and international cuisine.
- Lisbon Cathedral: One of the city’s oldest and most iconic landmarks, this cathedral is a beautiful example of Lisbon’s rich history.
- Praça Dom Pedro IV: Also known as Rossio Square, this large plaza is famous for its distinctive wavy tiles and vibrant atmosphere.
3. Enjoy a Lisbon Tram Ride
One of the most iconic experiences in Lisbon is riding the city’s historic trams, with the most famous being Tram 28. This tram line is popular because it passes by many of Lisbon’s top attractions, offering a scenic tour of the city. However, Tram 28 quickly becomes crowded and is known as a hotspot for pickpockets. If you plan to ride Tram 28, it’s best to go early to avoid the crowds and secure a window seat for the best views.
While Tram 28 is the most well-known, Lisbon’s tram system has several other lines that are worth exploring. These alternatives are often much less crowded and still offer a charming way to experience the city. The sound of the tram clanging through narrow streets and climbing steep hills is a quintessential part of the Lisbon experience.
Tips for Riding the Trams in Lisbon:
- Go Early: The earlier you go, the better your chances of avoiding crowds and getting a good seat.
- Watch Your Belongings: Pickpockets are common on crowded trams, so keep your valuables secure.
- Explore Other Lines: Don’t limit yourself to Tram 28—other lines offer a more relaxed and equally scenic ride.
4. Take a Free Walking Tour of Lisbon
One of the best ways to get a feel for a new city is by taking a walking tour. I always prefer this over bus tours because you can explore at a slower pace and really absorb the atmosphere. While there are plenty of paid options, my favorite was a free walking tour I did with a company called Lisbon Chill Out. This small, local company offers a unique perspective, steering away from the typical tourist spots and showing you the city through the eyes of locals who truly know and love the area.
Although these tours are technically free, it’s customary to tip your guide, which helps support the local community. It’s still a much more affordable option than traditional tours, and you’ll feel good knowing you’re directly contributing to Lisbon’s local economy.
What I appreciated most about the tour was its emphasis on respecting and preserving the local communities. In a city grappling with over-tourism, it’s refreshing to see a tour company committed to sustainable and respectful tourism. If you’re wondering what to do in Lisbon, I highly recommend giving this walking tour a try!
5. Visit the Castle of Sao Jorge
Dating back to the 11th century, the Castle of São Jorge is a must-see in Lisbon, offering stunning views of the city from its hilltop perch. The castle, with its Moorish influence, now serves as a museum and is one of Lisbon’s top attractions. The surrounding area is also worth exploring for its beauty and charm. You can purchase tickets or guided tour here.
During my stay, I didn’t venture inside due to the long lines. If you plan to visit, I highly recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds. The castle itself is more of a ruin, so don’t expect anything ornate, but it’s still a worthwhile experience.
6. Party in Bairro Alto
If you’re looking to party, a night out in Bairro Alto is a must during your trip to Lisbon. This vibrant neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, transforms into the city’s biggest party district after dark.
With countless bars and restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to go. My personal favorite is The Botanical Den, a vegan bar offering great food and fantastic cocktails. Bairro Alto has a lively, communal vibe, with small bars spilling out into the streets where people gather to drink and socialize. While the area may seem quiet during the day, it truly comes alive at night.
7. Take a Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon
One of the best things to do in Lisbon isn’t actually in the city itself—it’s a visit to the enchanting town of Sintra, just a 40-minute drive from downtown. Sintra is home to some of Portugal’s most stunning landmarks and castles, set against a backdrop of lush greenery. You can either drive yourself with a rental car, take public transit, or a guided group tour that includes transportation.
The town exudes charm with its ornate mansions and upscale dining, making it a must-see on any trip to the Lisbon area. While most people opt for a day trip, staying overnight allows you to explore Sintra at a more leisurely pace.
Best Things to See & Do in Sintra:
- Pena Palace: A vibrant, fairytale-like castle with stunning views.
- Quinta da Regaleira: A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and gardens.
- Moorish Castle: Ancient ruins offering panoramic views of the region.
Learn more about visiting Sintra in my complete travel guide here!
8. Visit Belem Tower in Lisbon
The Belém Tower is a must-add to your Lisbon itinerary. This stunning, ornate tower is located just outside the city center, about 20 minutes by car or 40 minutes by train. A visit to Belém makes for a perfect short day trip, as the surrounding area is also known for its beauty.
Although I didn’t get the chance to visit during my stay, it comes highly recommended by many. While it may not be a life-changing experience, the Belém Tower is definitely worth a visit if you have the time.
9. Eat at a Michelin Star Restaurant
If you’re a food lover, Lisbon is the city for you. The dining scene here is incredible, with countless great restaurants, many of which are more affordable than in other major European cities. For a special night out, consider dining at one of Lisbon’s many Michelin-starred restaurants. These establishments offer top-notch cuisine and service, often at surprisingly reasonable prices compared to other cities.
For example, I dined at Arkhe, a vegetarian Michelin-star restaurant, and it was incredible. Lunch was around $45 per person, with different set menu options. While I didn’t get to explore other Michelin-starred spots, I’m confident they’re equally impressive.
10. Try Pastel de Nata
One of the absolute must-dos in Lisbon is to try pastel de nata, the iconic Portuguese custard tart. These delicious treats are beloved throughout the country, but they’re especially popular in Lisbon.
Pastel de nata features a creamy egg custard nestled in a flaky pastry, often topped with cinnamon and powdered sugar. You’ll find them at countless bakeries around the city, each claiming to be the best. No visit to Lisbon is complete without indulging in one of these famous tarts—it’s an experience you simply can’t miss.
11. Visit Alfama
Visiting the charming old town of Alfama, in the eastern part of Lisbon, is a must. While many neighborhoods are beautiful, none capture the essence of Lisbon quite like Alfama. It’s the oldest part of the city, having survived the devastating 1755 earthquake and fires that destroyed much of Lisbon.
As you wander through its narrow, winding streets, you’ll be captivated by the old-world charm. Alfama is the Lisbon you’ve imagined, with its iconic narrow alleys, laundry hanging from balconies, and the sound of traditional music filling the air.
12. Time Out Market
The Time Out Market is a top tourist attraction in Lisbon, offering a vibrant food hall experience with a wide variety of cuisines. This bustling market is packed with energy, featuring vendors serving everything from seafood and pastel de nata to American-style burgers.
Unlike typical food courts, the food here is highly rated, ensuring a great meal no matter what you choose. As one of Lisbon’s most popular spots, it can get incredibly busy, especially on weekends, so be prepared for crowds. There’s even a bar at the center of the market if you want to enjoy a drink while you explore.
13. Listen to Fado Music
A popular activity in Lisbon, especially in Alfama, is listening to Fado music. This soulful and traditional Portuguese singing style, often accompanied by a Portuguese guitar, is a unique and emotional experience.
Unlike typical music performances, Fado is less structured and often accompanies a meal, with singers serenading you as you dine. For music lovers, experiencing Fado is a must. You might even hear it as you wander the streets of Alfama, where singers occasionally step out of their homes to perform, adding to the neighborhood’s charm.
14. Drink Ginjinha Liqueur
While in Lisbon, you must try the local Ginjinha liqueur. This sweet cherry liqueur is a popular local drink, often enjoyed in the afternoon. It’s like a dessert in a glass, and you’ll find many spots around the city where you can buy a bottle or enjoy a quick shot. A popular way to serve Ginjinha is in a chocolate cup, making the combination of cherry and chocolate even more delightful.
15. Stroll Avenida Liberdade
Avenida Liberdade is a stunning avenue known for its high-end shopping, restaurants, and hotels. The tree-lined street also features some of the most beautiful and ornate tile work on the sidewalks.
Find a great hotel in Lisbon, Portugal on Trip.com here!
I highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll along this avenue, whether you’re window shopping or indulging in some actual shopping. You’ll find all the well-known luxury brands here. While everything is pricier in this area, it’s a great spot if you’re in the mood for upscale shopping in Lisbon.
16. Enjoy the Best Rooftop Bars In Lisbon
One of the best ways to take in Lisbon’s sights is by visiting one of the many rooftop bars scattered across the city. These spots offer incredible views, making them well worth the slightly higher prices compared to typical bars.
My personal favorite is The Insólito in Principe Real, where you can enjoy stunning city views and delicious cocktails. So grab a friend and experience one of Lisbon’s top activities—drinks at a rooftop bar.
17. Stroll the Waterfront
Lisbon’s waterfront is surprisingly underdeveloped compared to what you might expect. While there are some sights to see and a few cafes along the water, it’s not as bustling as one might anticipate for a waterfront town.
The best way to explore it is by visiting Commerce Square, which opens up to the water and offers a stunning view. From there, you can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and enjoy this picturesque part of the city.
18. Visit the Tile Museum
Although I didn’t visit it myself, a friend told me that the Tile Museum was one of his favorite experiences in Lisbon. The iconic Portuguese tiles that adorn buildings throughout the city are a cultural staple, and the museum offers a deep dive into their history with hundreds of unique designs on display.
Even if you don’t make it to the museum, simply strolling around the city to admire the intricate tile work is a fantastic way to experience Lisbon’s charm.
Conclusion
As you can see, Lisbon offers an abundance of incredible experiences. The city is easy to navigate, whether by metro, taxi, Uber, or the iconic trolleys. While some areas can feel a bit touristy, Lisbon’s beauty and charm make it well worth a visit. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here and found so many unique places to explore.
With its affordability compared to other parts of Western Europe, Portugal is quickly becoming one of the world’s top tourist destinations, and Lisbon is poised to be one of Europe’s most visited cities. With world-class cuisine, fantastic entertainment, and beautiful weather year-round, it’s easy to see why.
Don’t forget to check out my other content on Portugal, including Porto, Madeira & the Azores!
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