Lisbon Travel Guide

Lisbon, Portugal‘s capital, is a city of contrasts—where old-world charm meets modern vibrancy, and stunning coastal scenery blends with rich history. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or an art enthusiast, this Lisbon travel guide has everything you need to know to make your visit to Lisbon unforgettable.

Things to do in Lisbon

Let’s get straight to the fun part of this Lisbon travel guide. There are lots of incredible things to do in Lisbon, from famous historic sites and museums to beach trips and cultural experiences.

Explore the Alfama District

Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful houses, and hidden gems. It’s a place to lose yourself while discovering:

São Jorge Castle: Perched on a hilltop, this ancient Moorish fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River.
Miradouros (Viewpoints): Alfama is home to some of Lisbon’s best viewpoints like Miradouro da Gra?a and Miradouro de Santa Luzia, where you can enjoy sweeping vistas of the terracotta rooftops and the river.
Fado Music: The soulful and melancholic music of Fado originated in Alfama. Visit a Fado house, like Clube de Fado, for an intimate live performance while dining on traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Visit Belém

Belém is where Portugal’s Age of Discoveries began. The neighborhood is filled with iconic landmarks:

Belém Tower (Torre de Belém): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fortified tower once guarded Lisbon’s harbor. It is one of the most emblematic monuments of the city.
Jerónimos Monastery: Another UNESCO-listed site, this grand monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture and houses the tomb of the explorer Vasco da Gama.
Padr?o dos Descobrimentos: A striking monument celebrating Portuguese explorers, the Padr?o overlooks the Tagus River and is shaped like a ship’s prow.
Pastéis de Belém: No trip to Belém is complete without tasting the famous Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts) from Pastéis de Belém, a bakery that has been serving them since 1837.

Ride Tram 28

Lisbon’s iconic yellow Tram 28 is not just a mode of transportation but a moving attraction. The tram rattles through some of the city’s most charming neighborhoods, including Gra?a, Alfama, and Baixa, offering a convenient (and scenic) way to explore.

Tip: Board the tram early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.

Stroll Through Baixa and Chiado

Baixa is Lisbon’s bustling downtown, characterized by grand plazas and neoclassical buildings, while Chiado is the bohemian heart of the city.

Praça do Comércio: This massive waterfront square is one of the largest in Europe. Admire the grandiose Arco da Rua Augusta, which leads to the bustling pedestrian street Rua Augusta.
Santa Justa Lift: A beautiful iron elevator built in 1902, the Santa Justa Lift connects Baixa to the elevated Carmo Square. It offers great views of the city.
Carmo Convent: The ruins of this gothic church, partially destroyed by the 1755 earthquake, are both haunting and beautiful.

Ascend to the Bairro Alto for Nightlife

Bairro Alto is the hub of Lisbon’s nightlife. During the day, it’s a quiet neighborhood, but after sunset, its streets come alive with bars, restaurants, and live music.

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara: This viewpoint is perfect for sunset, offering a panoramic view of Lisbon’s skyline and São Jorge Castle.
Rooftop Bars: Bairro Alto has some of the best rooftop bars in the city. Park Bar is a popular spot that offers excellent cocktails with breathtaking views.

Discover the LX Factory

A former industrial complex, LX Factory is now a creative hub filled with trendy restaurants, boutiques, and street art. Located in the Alcantara district, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening exploring:

Ler Devagar Bookstore: A stunning bookstore inside a former printing press, with towering bookshelves and a quirky, artistic vibe.
Street Art: Wander the streets to admire the vibrant street art and murals that cover the old factory buildings.

Take a Day Trip to Sintra

Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairy-tale town known for its misty hills and magnificent palaces.

Pena Palace: This brightly colored palace sits atop a hill and looks straight out of a storybook. Its unique mix of architectural styles and lush gardens make it a must-see.
Quinta da Regaleira: A mystical estate filled with underground tunnels, secret grottoes, and the iconic Initiation Well, a spiral staircase descending into the earth.
Moorish Castle: Climb the ancient walls of this hilltop fortress for breathtaking views of Sintra and the surrounding countryside.

See below for some ticket/tour options. Best booked in advance.