Things To Do
in Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere. The city is built on seven hills, providing breathtaking views of the Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean. With its charming neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and a blend of traditional and modern influences, Lisbon offers a unique cultural experience.

Visitors can explore everything from ancient castles to contemporary art galleries while indulging in delicious Portuguese cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Lisbon
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Belém Tower followed by a stroll through the Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

afternoon
:

Head to the vibrant neighborhood of Alfama, where you can wander the narrow streets, enjoy lunch at a local taverna, and visit the Lisbon Cathedral.

evening
:

Experience a traditional Fado show in Alfama, savoring the soulful music while enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Views
morning
:

Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum to admire its impressive art collection, followed by a relaxing walk in the adjacent Gulbenkian Park.

afternoon
:

Take the historic Tram 28 through the city, stopping at viewpoints such as Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for panoramic photos.

evening
:

Explore the trendy Bairro Alto district, filled with trendy bars and restaurants, and enjoy the lively atmosphere while sampling local wines.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15-25
Coffee$1.50-3
🍺Domestic beer$3-5
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50
🏨Night at a budget hotel$50-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious and diverse culinary scene.
  • Beautiful landscapes and panoramic views.
  • Hilly terrain can be challenging for some.
  • Tourist areas can be crowded.
  • Public transport sometimes experiences delays.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Lisbon

Visit one of these nice places.

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

One of the highest viewpoints in Lisbon, offering stunning panoramic views of the city skyline.

Alfama District

With its narrow winding streets and colorful buildings, Alfama is a picturesque area perfect for capturing Lisbon's essence.

Belém Tower

This historic landmark is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lisbon

Lisbon's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional flavors and modern innovations, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Lisbon Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bacalhau à Brás

A classic Portuguese dish made with shredded cod, onions, and potatoes, bound together with scrambled eggs.

Must-Try!

Pastéis de Nata

Famous Portuguese custard tarts with a flaky crust, best enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Caldo Verde

A traditional green soup made with kale, potatoes, and chorizo, perfect for cold days.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado da Ribeira

A bustling market with a variety of food stalls offering traditional Portuguese dishes and international cuisine.

Time Out Market

A trendy food hall featuring some of Lisbon's best chefs and their signature dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lisbon enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Average temperatures in summer can reach around 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures typically hover around 10-15°C (50-59°F). Rain is more frequent from November to March, while the summer months are mostly dry and sunny. The city benefits from a pleasant sea breeze, making it enjoyable year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common when meeting someone, and it’s polite to say 'Bom dia' (Good morning) or 'Boa tarde' (Good afternoon).

Dining Etiquette

It's customary to wait for the host to start the meal before eating.

Personal Space

While Portuguese people are friendly, maintaining a respectful distance during conversations is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lisbon is generally considered safe for tourists, but common sense precautions should be taken. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and on public transport, so it’s advisable to keep valuables secure. Avoid poorly lit neighborhoods at night and be aware of your surroundings. Local authorities are responsive, and emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Lisbon

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A 5-10% tip is appreciated in restaurants, but not mandatory. Rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and sunny weather draws crowds; beach trips and evening outdoor events are popular.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists provide a great atmosphere for exploring the city.

Winter

Mild but rainy, winter sees fewer tourists; it's a good time for museum visits and enjoying local cuisine indoors.

Nightlife Guide

Lisbon at Night

Lisbon's nightlife is vibrant and varied, with options ranging from laid-back bars to energetic nightclubs. The Bairro Alto district is famous for its lively atmosphere, where bars spill onto the streets and offer inexpensive drinks. For those looking to enjoy live music, Alfama is the place to experience traditional Fado performances. The city also has a growing electronic music scene, particularly in clubs like LuxFrágil, where you can dance until dawn.

Hiking in Lisbon

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and historical landmarks like the Pena Palace.

Arrábida Natural Park

Known for its beautiful coastline and lush greenery, this park offers various trails with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Airports

How to reach Lisbon by plane.

Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)

The main international airport serving Lisbon, located about 7 km from the city center. It offers numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lisbon is moderately walkable, with many attractions located within walking distance of each other, particularly in neighborhoods like Baixa and Alfama. However, the city's hilly terrain may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Sidewalks can be narrow in some areas, and cobblestones can be uneven, so wearing comfortable shoes is advisable. Public transportation, including trams and buses, is available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Lisbon has a growing number of young professionals attracted by the tech industry and vibrant startup scene.

Expats

A significant expat community resides in Lisbon, drawn by the city's rich culture, climate, and lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Portugal, with major teams like SL Benfica and Sporting CP having large followings.

Surfing

With beautiful coastal beaches nearby, surfing is a popular activity, attracting both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Lisbon experiences moderate traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours. Public transportation options include trams, buses, and the metro, which are generally reliable and affordable. The iconic tram 28 is a popular choice for tourists, providing a scenic route through the city's historic districts. It's advisable to use public transport or walk to avoid parking difficulties and traffic jams.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lisbon.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and there are dedicated vegan establishments available.

Gluten-Free

Some traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free; however, it's advisable to ask about gluten-free options at restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Portugal has a public healthcare system that is accessible for residents and visitors, though EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for free or reduced-cost services. Private healthcare is also available and often provides quicker access to specialists. Pharmacies are widely found throughout the city, and many have staff who speak English, making it easy for visitors to find necessary medications.

Discover Portugal

Read more in our Portugal 2025 Travel Guide.

Portugal Travel Guide