The best things to do in Lisbon on your next visit
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There are so many things to in Lisbon that it’s becoming difficult to see the city in just a weekend. Its historic cobbled lanes, pretty wooden trams, sparkling river and striking tiled façades are all still there, but the city is ever-changing and there’s now a host of intriguing new spaces to visit, too. Chefs from around the world are opening some of the best restaurants in Lisbon, challenging the excellent local restaurants to raise the bar even further. Young Portuguese mixologists and baristas are returning from time spent in London, Paris and New York to launch bars and cafés that blend the best of home and away. And emerging fashion designers, artists, ceramicists and furniture makers are exhibiting and selling their wares in new stores and galleries that celebrate the skills of talented locals.
Of course, in between eating and drinking you’ll want to see Lisbon’s sights – from the Belém Tower to Castelo de S. Jorge – but there’s plenty more to experience in this wonderful, colourful city. Here are the best things to do in Lisbon on your next trip.
Getty ImagesWalk the city
No visit to Lisbon is complete without a walk through the historic suburbs of Alfama and Mouraria, which tumble down the hillside below the castle. Winding lanes are flanked by beautifully tiled palaces and dotted with shady squares lined with fragrant orange trees and bars and cafés with sardines grilling over the coals outside. Don’t worry about navigating a route; aim to get lost and you’re bound to discover a pretty corner with striking views across the city – just pack your trainers! In the evening head for Casa de Fados in Mouraria. Formerly the home of 19th-century singer Maria Severa, it’s one of the best places in town to listen to the soulful sounds of fado.
Getty ImagesVisit Sintra
An hour’s train ride away from Lisbon is Sintra; a charming Portuguese town situated within the hills of the Serra de Sintra. For those who haven’t been before, it’s a wonder – a place of colourful palaces, winding roads and secret streets. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Vila Palace with its two distinctive cone-shaped chimneys, the Palácio and Quinta da Regaleira, the Pena Palace and more. A tip is to go early and avoid weekends, as the area can become extremely busy.
Sara Martins / Alamy Stock PhotoListen to Fado music
And if you’re hungry for more of the same, now’s the perfect time. Fado is a music genre that is thought to have originated in the 19th century in Portugal (although it’s likely to have been much earlier), and no visit to Lisbon is complete without experiencing the melodic tunes. If you wander through the old town of Alfama you’ll likely hear it entirely by accident, coming from the many local bars, restaurants and even houses. But if you choose to seek it out, head to Fado & Wine, Clube de Fado or Sr. Fado.
Website: clubedefado.pt
Getty ImagesRide the 28 tram
Of course, the tram is synonymous with Lisbon. The most famous route, and the one that gives the best look at the city for those visiting for the first time, is the 28. First developed in 1914, the route was designed to take residents from the central Baixa district to neighbourhoods like Graca and Estrela, and subsequently goes through many sights and charming neighbourhoods. As a result, this tram gets extremely busy, and you can expect to queue – taking the ride early will help ease the wait a little.
Website: ceramicasnalinha.pt
Getty ImagesShop for Portuguese ceramics
Lisbon’s tiled facades are famous on Instagram, but there’s more to the city’s ceramic history than patterned house-fronts. Portugal is rich in clay, and has been making ceramics for centuries – in fact, many of its artists are world-renowned. Visit Cerâmicas na Linha in Chiado, where you can shop the vast offering and pay per kilogram – expect to find plates, bowls and mugs that would cost double, or triple the price back home.
Eat a pastel de nata (or 10)
The must-try pastel de nata, with its addictive mix of sweet custard and flaky pastry, is a Portuguese tradition that never gets old. A pilgrimage to Pastéis de Belém is on most people’s list (and there’s nothing wrong with that). But we think the ones from CASTRO, a new spot in town, are up there. For something more avant-garde, head to Bairro Alto Hotel, one of Lisbon's best hotels. Along with fifth-floor BAHR restaurant (exemplary dishes served alongside wide river views), the hotel has an in-house pastelaria, which offers original and delicious takes on traditional pastries.
Getty ImagesCastelo de São Jorge
There's no escaping the imposing castle in Lisbon; it sits atop the city, overlooking everything below, and is visible from almost every angle. Originally built by the Romans in 200bc, the castle underwent a huge renovation in the 1940s, and is now arguably the most popular tourist attraction in all of Lisbon. This, of course, means that it's always busy – so we recommend visiting in the morning or late afternoon, and buying tickets online to skip the queue.
That being said, there's nothing quite like standing above all of Lisbon and taking in the view of the city's terracotta roofs, to the River Tagus and beyond – if you're a first-time visitor to the city, we highly recommend visiting this wonderful monument.
Carla Guedes Pinto / Alamy Stock PhotoHang out with locals at LX Factory
An area that was once home to Lisbon’s textiles factory has now become one of the coolest hangouts in the city. The area retains its industrial warehouse vibe, but is now home to independent shops, boutiques, restaurants, bars and more, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. If you have time, head to the top of the hostel to the rooftop bar and enjoy a caipirinha or two in the sunshine.
Website: lxfactory.com
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Francisco NogueiraExplore Lisbon's restaurant scene
It could easily be argued that Lisbon is one of the foodiest capitals in the world, and there truly is something for everyone here; from tiny, local portuguese tascas serving up moreish codfish cakes to Michelin-starred restaurants showcasing the best local produce. There’s a passionate, hungry young crowd of chefs competing with the best in London, New York and more, and no trip is complete without sampling their inventive menus. See here the full list of the best restaurants in Lisbon, as tried by us.
Getty ImagesClimb to the top of the Panteão Nacional
This beautiful church is the national pantheon of Portugal, and sits proudly in the Alfama district, instantly recognisable with its white dome ceiling. Visitors can enter the pantheon and climb to the top, where they’ll have a perfect view of the stunning symmetrical design from above. It’s also a great place to see the city from above, with views stretching way across the Tagus river.
Website: panteaonacional.gov.pt
GeoTravel / Alamy Stock PhotoShop local
The Feeting Room is an independent concept store showcasing young Portuguese designers. You’ll find men and women’s footwear, fashion and accessories, including colourful vegan leather wallets and backpacks by emerging Lisbon brand We the Knot. At the +351 store, local designer and former pro-surfer Ana Costa creates T-shirts and sweatshirts in muted tones or check out homegrown menswear brand La Paz for clothing that channels the city’s Atlantic coast location. Eyewear company Fora stocks a range of glasses and sunglasses designed in Lisbon and hand-made in the north of Portugal. Vintage lovers can scour the flea market, Feira da Ladra, pictured, which is held every Tuesday and Saturday and has an eclectic selection of craft and design, vintage collectibles and second-hand clothing.
Watch the sun set at a rooftop bar
The panorama from any of central Lisbon’s rooftop bars is incredibly impressive; the castle battlements on the hillside opposite, the wavy-cobblestone Rossio square and the river beyond are all visible. Whether you want laid-back drinks at former carpark Park, or something slightly more chic and formal and Lumi rooftop above The Lumiares hotel, every visitor should take in the view of Lisbon from above. Combine sundowners, slow DJ sets and sharing menus and you have all the ingredients for long, laidback Lisbon evenings.
Timo Christ / Alamy Stock PhotoBelém Tower
The pastel de nata are reason enough for some to make the trip to Belém, but the tower – built between the years 1515 and 1521 – is not to be missed. It was designed to serve as both a gateway to the city of Lisbon and as a defence against possible invasions and attacks from the Tagus. Now, visitors can enter the fort and enjoy the architecture up-close. If you’re staying in Lisbon, hire a bike and cycle along the river until you reach the tower.
Getty ImagesFind the best views at the city’s miradouros (viewpoints)
While the city’s rooftop bars are well worth a visit, locals tend to frequent the free miradouros – or viewpoints – dotted around the city to watch the sun go down, instead. The Miradouro das Portas do Sol is the one you’re most likely to have seen on social media, thanks to its tiled decor and bougainvillea, but for a more quiet experience we recommend the Miradouro da Graça. Bring a drink and a picnic to enjoy while you soak up the vibes of the city.
barbara cameron pix / Alamy Stock PhotoGo to a museum
The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, the National Tile Museum, the Museu do Fado – Lisbon has seemingly endless museums to visit. If your trip is a fleeting one and you’re forced to prioritise, we recommend the National Museum of Ancient Art, where paintings, sculptures, furniture, ceramics, textiles, gold, and silverware capture Portugal’s riveting history from the Middle Ages through the 19th century.
Getty ImagesJerónimos Monastery
Most visit Belém to see the tower and sample pastéis de Belém, but there's so much more to see in this area a short train ride from Lisbon's city centre.
The Gothic-style Jerónimos Monastery is a massive, imposing but beautiful building that was designed by the Portuguese architect Diogo de Boitaca to commemorate the return of Vasco da Gama from India. The construction began on 6 January 1501 but wasn’t completed until the 17th century, when it became home to the monks of the Order of Saint Jerome (who are, incidentally, said to be responsible for the famous Portuguese tart recipe). Now, it's open to the public, and well worth a visit.
Website: lisbon.net
AlamyMonsanto Park
This huge green space located to the west of Lisbon is a stunning place to stroll and see impressive views of the city. There are a number of different walking trails in the 50 hectare park, depending on the length and difficulty that works for you, but each is beautiful and makes for an ideal escape from the crowds that congregate in the city centre.
Getty ImagesTake a food tour
In case we haven't been clear, Lisbon is a city made for foodies. So much so, that it can be difficult to fit everything into just one short weekend. A Culinary Backstreets tour will allow you to taste the best of what Lisbon has to offer, plus learn about local plates and traditions, within the space of an afternoon. You can go from nibbling sardines on street corners of the old town to tasting house-made hot sauces, or piripiri, and taking a shot of ginjinha – a sour cherry liqueur loved by locals and tourists alike.
Website: culinarybackstreets.com
AlamyPalácio Nacional de Mafra
The National Palace in Mafra is around a 45-minute drive from Lisbon, but makes for a wonderful day trip for history buffs and architecture fans. This magnificent building, which was once the summer residence of the royal family, covers four hectares, and within that space is 1,200 rooms, an 18th-century hospital, Italian sculptures, Italian and Portuguese paintings and an impressive library containing 16th, 17th and 18th century books, many of them highly rare.
There's so much to explore that you could easily spend the majority of the day here. When you're finished, stroll around the town and take lunch at one of the typical tascas serving up classic Portuguese dishes, before returning to Lisbon.
Getty ImagesTake a sunset cruise on the River Tagus
With its azure blue waters and grand bridge, the River Tagus is undoubtedly one of the most photographed parts of Lisbon. But just admiring it from solid ground doesn't quite give the full experience, which is why we highly recommend booking a sunset boat cruise for an unforgettable memory.
There are plenty of places offering trips, but booking through Airbnb is a solid option, where you can choose between more intimate tours or party trips. In recent years, there have been dolphins spotted in the Tagus – so if you're extremely lucky, you might be one of the few who get to spot them in the wild, without even leaving the vicinity of Lisbon.
Jorge SimãoWine tasting
Any trip should involve learning about the local food and drink, and given that Portugal has the highest rate of wine consumption by country in the world, the locals certainly have a thing or two to teach visitors.
While you'd have to travel to reach a vineyard from Lisbon, Nova Wine Bar is a must-visit for those looking to learn a little more about the many grape varieties and the growing wine industry here. Owner Pedro (who once worked in advertising before realising his love for wines) tailors his recommendations to the tastes of guests – and if you don't know exactly what you like, chances are he'll figure it out for you. He also pairs wines with small plates brilliantly – expect Portuguese classics like sardines and meats – leaving you wanting more, quite literally. Luckily, you can ship your favourite bottles home, so you'll still have a taste of Portugal once you've left.
Website: novawinebar.pt
Getty ImagesLearn to surf
There are a surprising number of beaches within easy reach of the sunny city, so you’re bound to have plenty of days to work on your tan. The nearest is Carcavelos, a long sandy curve beloved of teenagers and university students, which is just 15 minutes by train from Cais do Sodré station. Stay on the train for another 15 minutes and you’ll reach the family-friendly bays of pretty neighbouring Cascais. Surfers and those who like a caipirinha or cold beer served to their beach lounger should pop across the river (a short ferry and bus ride) to the 20 miles of white-sand surf beaches and beachside bars at Costa da Caparica.
Getty ImagesGo to the beach
Lisbon is very much a beach destination, if you want it to be. Whether it’s a trip to nearby fishing town Cascais, which is a favourite of UK travellers looking for a quieter alternative to the city, or watching surfers and 26km-long Caparica, sometimes a day outside of the city is exactly what the doctor orders. See our full list of the best beaches in Lisbon to suit every type of traveller.
Getty ImagesParque Eduardo VII
There are many places from where you can see Lisbon from above, but the view from the top of Parque Eduardo is still unparalleled. The viewpoint at the highest point of the park looks down towards Avenida da Liberdade and over the River Tagus, and while the city centre tends to be a busy place, this part of Lisbon feels like a peaceful escape from the crowds. If you get tired of strolling and admiring the view, there's plenty to do here, including visiting La Estufa Fría – the botanical gardens – and The Amalia Rodrigues Garden, a green space dedicated to the protagonist of fado in Lisbon. Plus, you're almost guaranteed to be in need of refreshments after the incline, so pop into Praia no Parque for a spot of lunch in the most picturesque of locations.
Learn about Lisbon's earthquake history
Those new to Lisbon are often fascinated by the earthquake of 1755, which took place on All Saints’ Day and killed around 60,000 people, plus destroyed thousands of buildings.
Quake Museum gives an in-depth, interactive look at the events that led to the disaster, what locals may have experienced during those few days, and the impact the event had on the city's architecture and town planning. It's a really well-done experience, featuring simulations and a look at what future earthquakes in the vicinity could look like, plus how to be prepared. Plus, it's located in Belém near the Torre de Belém, Pastéis de Belém and the Jerónimos Monastery, so you can make a day of it and tick off multiple attractions in one go.
Getty ImagesPort tasting
While Porto is the home of Port, the sweet wine is enjoyed throughout Portugal, and it's a fascinating way to spend an afternoon. A tasting will allow you to learn the difference between ruby and tawny, plus try some white port and the divisive pink port. There are various places to get to know this source of national pride, including the Taylor's Port Wine Shop & Tasting Room on the riverfront. We spent a wonderful couple of hours at the more intimate and personal Portologia Lisboa, a small cave-like bar with knowledgeable and friendly staff. Be warned: you'll certainly be tempted to take a bottle or two home.
Getty ImagesElevador de Santa Justa
The Elevador de Santa Justa is high up on most people's lists when they visit Lisbon. While plenty of places in the city now offer panoramic views of the famous skyline, few have the history of this 19th-century Neo-Gothic structure, also referred to as Elevador do Carmo. Built in 1902 as one of the city's public transport systems, it once allowed residents to easily access the higher parts of the city of seven hills back when it was notoriously difficult to do so. Lisbon’s inhabitants were so excited to try this novelty at the time that, on the first day, 3,000 tickets were sold. Nowadays, you can expect similar lines of people queueing up to experience the lift – smart tourists will visit first thing in the morning to try to avoid these long lines.
If you're not into waiting, here's a top tip: head to Carmo Convent, turn right on Travessa Dom Pedro de Menezes, climb a flight of stairs and cross the bridge connecting the elevator. You'll get a similar view, but you will miss out on the history.
Arlindo CamachoGo to a music festival
Lisbon has an impressive festival scene, and in recent years has played host to some of the biggest recording artists around. Nos Alive, a three-day festival in Passeio Marítimo de Algés held on the waterfront, will return in 2025, with a line-up still to be announced. Also loved by locals are Super Bock Super Rock and MEO Kalorama.