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Lisbon is one of those cities you’ll want to return to again and again. We’ve visited several times now, and each trip reveals something new. From the winding streets of Alfama and colorful azulejo-covered façades to iconic trams, scenic viewpoints and cozy cafés, Lisbon never loses its charm. Wondering what to do in Lisbon? In this guide, we share our favorite things to do in Lisbon, from must-see attractions and vibrant neighborhoods to local hotspots and unique experiences. Perfect for a weekend city break, but also an ideal starting point for a longer Portugal itinerary.
Iconic highlights and activities in Lisbon
Start your Lisbon adventure with the city’s most iconic attractions. This is where you’ll discover a fascinating mix of historic landmarks, impressive museums and breathtaking viewpoints. The Belém district in particular is packed with must-see sights, every street feels like an open-air museum.
Are you wondering whether Lisbon is more than just a city break for you? Read why living and working in Lisbon as a digital nomad is so popular.
1. Visit the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in Belém
When visiting Lisbon, a trip to the Belém district is an absolute must. This historic neighborhood is home to the iconic Jerónimos Monastery, one of the top attractions in Lisbon. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this impressive monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, Portugal’s ornate version of Late Gothic style, filled with maritime symbols and intricate details. While the grand façade is stunning, the real highlight is the cloister. Its elegant arches, detailed carvings and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the most beautiful sights in Lisbon. Inside, you can also visit the chapter house, the refectory and the tranquil monastery gardens.
We found the Jerónimos Monastery to be one of the most beautiful sights in Lisbon, and Belém is definitely one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods. Want to learn more about Belém? Read our detailed guide on the historic Belém district in Lisbon.
2. The impressive Torre de Belém
Another gem in Belém is the Belém Tower, an iconic fortress that once defended the Tagus River. For the best views over Lisbon, be sure to climb to the top.
3. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos
The Padrão dos Descobrimentos is another must-see landmark in Belém, honoring Portugal’s famous explorers. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the river and the city.
4. Praça do Comércio
Praça do Comércio is undoubtedly one of Lisbon’s most striking squares. Situated along the Tagus River, it once served as the city’s main gateway for travelers arriving by ship. Rebuilt after the devastating 1755 earthquake, the square has since stood as a symbol of Lisbon’s resilience and grandeur. A must-visit for anyone exploring the city.
What makes the square truly special is the Pórtico Triunfal da Rua Augusta, the impressive triumphal arch leading into the famous Rua Augusta. From here, you can easily step into Lisbon’s vibrant downtown. At the center of the square stands the equestrian statue of King Joseph I, the ruler during the city’s remarkable post-earthquake reconstruction.
Beyond its historical architecture, Praça do Comércio is also incredibly inviting, with plenty of cafés and terraces. It’s the perfect spot to take a break with a bica (Portuguese espresso) while enjoying views of the Tagus River.
Lisbon's best neighborhoods
It’s probably clear by now that Belém is one of our favorite neighborhoods in Lisbon, but there are a few more areas that truly stole our hearts. In our opinion, these are the best neighborhoods to explore in Lisbon!
5. Baixa: the heart of Lisbon
Planning to stay in this charming neighborhood during your Lisbon city break? Find our top accommodation tips for Chiado in our guide to the best places to stay in Lisbon.
6. Chiado: where history meets art
The Chiado district is Lisbon’s artistic heart, famous for its stylish shops and historic boutiques. A must-visit spot here is Baobá Café Bica, perfect for lunch or a coffee break. Take your time to wander the streets, brightly colored buildings alternate around every corner, and many façades are adorned with traditional azulejos (ceramic tiles). Did you know Lisbon has more ceramic tiles than any other city in Portugal? It’s truly a feast for the eyes!
Would you like to stay in this nice neighborhood during your city break to Lisbon? Tips for accommodations in Chiado read our article on the best places to stay in Lisbon.
7. Alfama: the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, and it largely survived the 1755 earthquake, preserving the authentic charm of old Lisbon. Explore the maze of narrow, winding streets, where every corner reveals a hidden plaza, colorful azulejos, and traditional houses with laundry hanging from the balconies.
No visit to Alfama is complete without experiencing the soulful sounds of Fado. This melancholic music style is deeply rooted in Portuguese culture and is performed live in cozy taverns and traditional Fado restaurants throughout the neighborhood.
8. Cais do Sodré: from port neighborhood to hip nightlife area
Cais do Sodré is one of Lisbon’s liveliest neighborhoods. Once a rough port area where sailors and traders gathered, it’s now a trendy district filled with cozy cafés, stylish bars, and great restaurants. During the day, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river and soak up the relaxed atmosphere; by night, it’s the perfect spot to experience Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife.
One of the most famous spots in Cais do Sodré is Rua Nova do Carvalho, better known as Pink Street. Once notorious for its nightclubs and bars, it has transformed into a popular entertainment street. During the day, it’s mostly a tourist attraction thanks to the colorful umbrellas that line the street. Maybe not a must-see, but let’s be honest, those bright colors are bound to lift your spirits! A fun stop like this is definitely one of the things to do in Lisbon on your city trip.
Beyond its nightlife, Cais do Sodré also has other attractions worth exploring. One highlight is the local Mercado da Ribeira, a bustling market where you can sample fresh produce, local delicacies, and experience authentic Lisbon life.
Eating in Lisbon: enjoy local delicacies and markets in Lisbon
No trip to Lisbon is complete without tasting the local cuisine. From the famous Pastéis de Nata to delicious bacalhau dishes, Lisbon is truly a paradise for food lovers. For us, a city trip always goes hand in hand with discovering local hotspots, and of course, we’ve put together a great list for Lisbon as well. These are the best restaurants and bars in Lisbon.
9. Try the iconic Pastéis de Belém
This is a treat we’d happily return to Lisbon just for: the Pastéis de Belém, perhaps Lisbon’s most iconic dish! Pastéis de Belém are custard tarts made following a secret recipe, a true must-try during your city trip to Lisbon.
You can actually find Pastéis de Nata all over the city, but for the very best version, you need to go to Belém. The original Pastéis de Belém have been made here since 1837 at the Confeitaria de Belém. This is the only place where these custard tarts are allowed to be called Pastéis de Belém. Everywhere else in Portugal, they are known as Pastéis de Nata. Tasting these iconic tarts is definitely one of the things to do in Lisbon during your city trip!
10. Enjoy fresh seafood in Lisbon
When in Lisbon, trying the local seafood is an absolute must. Situated on the Atlantic Ocean, the city offers fresh, daily-caught fish prepared in traditional Portuguese style. One of the most famous dishes is bacalhau, salted and dried cod. Legend has it that there are 365 different ways to prepare bacalhau in Portugal — one for each day of the year! Sampling these local seafood dishes is definitely one of the things to do in Lisbon for food lovers.
A popular variation is Bacalhau à Brás, where the cod is mixed with eggs, onions, and thin fries. Another must-try is grilled sardines (sardinhas assadas), especially popular during the summer months and the Santo António celebrations in June.
If you want to enjoy fresh seafood with a spectacular view, Restaurante Ponto Final is an absolute must. Located across the Tagus River in Almada, it’s easily reachable by ferry from Cais do Sodré. Once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Lisbon skyline. Feast on delicious seafood dishes like grilled octopus, oysters, and fresh dorado, all while sitting almost above the water. A truly unforgettable experience and one of the top things to do in Lisbon.
Tip: Visit around sunset for the ultimate experience. The atmosphere is magical as the sun casts a golden glow over the city!
11. Explore the markets of Lisbon
If, like us, you enjoy wandering through local markets and discovering traditional delicacies, Lisbon is the perfect destination. The city is home to several vibrant markets, including Mercado da Ribeira and Feira da Ladra, where you can pick up local products and get a true taste of Portuguese life. Absolutely recommended for anyone exploring the sights and highlights in Lisbon.
Unforgettable viewpoints and panoramic spots in Lisbon
Lisbon is known for its hilly landscape and offers some of the most beautiful viewpoints in Europe. These are some of our favourites:
12. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
One of the top viewpoints in Lisbon is Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, offering a stunning panoramic view of the city. It’s the perfect spot to pause, take in the scenery, and admire one of the most iconic must-see attractions in Lisbon.
13. The view from the Elevador de Santa Justa
The Elevador de Santa Justa is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. This historic elevator, designed by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard (a student of Gustave Eiffel), was built in 1902 to connect the districts of Baixa and Chiado. While it was originally a practical transport solution, today it’s a popular tourist spot and one of the city’s top attractions in Lisbon, thanks to its impressive panoramic views.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Baixa district, the Tagus River, and even the impressive Castelo de São Jorge perched on the hill. The vista is especially breathtaking at sunset, when the city is bathed in warm hues and the lights gradually come alive.
Tip: Want to skip the lines? Instead of taking the elevator, you can reach the viewing platform on foot via the Convento do Carmo. This way, you can still enjoy the stunning views without waiting!
14. Climb the Arco da Rua Augusta
Looking for a unique perspective of the famous Praça do Comércio and the city? Climb the Arco da Rua Augusta for a breathtaking panoramic view of Lisbon and the Tagus River, one of the city’s most memorable sights and viewpoints!
15. Take a ride on streetcar 28
Want to do something truly iconic during your Lisbon city trip? Take a ride on Tram 28! This historic tram winds through Lisbon’s old neighborhoods — including Baixa, Graça, Mouraria, Alfama, and Estrela — and passes by several stunning viewpoints. It’s a fun and affordable way to explore the historic city and saves you a lot of climbing up Lisbon’s hills, making it a must for discovering the city’s top sights and highlights.
Fun organized activities in Lisbon
Looking for fun activities in Lisbon where you really get to know the city (and surroundings) better? Then organized tours and excursions are a fun way to get more out of your city trip. Accompanied by a local guide you will discover not only the famous highlights, but also the stories and hidden places that you would easily miss. Get inspired by the excursions and tips below!
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What is the best way to explore Lisbon?
Lisbon boasts excellent public transportation, making it easy to explore the city and its main sights and attractions. However, the best way to truly soak up the charm of some neighborhoods is often on foot!
Buy the Lisboa Card to save money
If you want to get the most out of your Lisbon city trip, it’s worth considering purchasing the Lisboa Card. With this card, you can visit many attractions for free and get discounts at others. It also grants unlimited access to public transportation. You can choose a pass valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours, making it an excellent way to explore Lisbon’s top sights and highlights efficiently.
Rent and car and make some fun day trips around Lisbon
Have a bit more time in the city or want to combine Lisbon with its surroundings? Then it’s also highly recommended to rent a car via Sunny Cars and explore the beautiful nearby beaches, palaces, and historic villages at your own pace.
Also check out our tips for the best day trips from Lisbon, including Sintra, Cascais, and the coastal towns around the city.
The best places to stay in Lisbon
Excited about a city trip to Lisbon? Of course, you’ll want a great base to stay. Whether you choose a boutique hotel in Alfama, a stylish accommodation in Baixa, or a trendy place in Belém, there are plenty of fun and affordable options in Lisbon. We stayed at the lovely Apartamento do Carmo, and JJ Apartments is another great option in Lisbon. In our blog, we share even more places to stay in Lisbon and highlight the neighborhood that best suits your style.
Combine your Lisbon city break with a scenic road trip in the Alentejo region
Do you have a bit more time during your Lisbon city break? Then it’s absolutely worth combining the city with a road trip through the Alentejo region. This peaceful and authentic area is less than two hours’ drive from Lisbon and feels like a world apart, with its vast landscapes, whitewashed villages, vineyards, and relaxed pace of life.
Prefer to travel on to Portugal's other famous city? Then check out our guide to the ultimate tips for a city break to Porto.
Helpful tips for your road trip through Alentejo:
What to do in Alentejo in Portugal: our 9 best tips: discover nature, beaches, wineries and villages.
What to do in Évora: the historic capital of Alentejo: culture, Roman temples and cozy streets.
Where to stay in Alentejo? Tips for beautiful country houses and cozy B&Bs: amazing places to stay in the Alentejo region.
Unforgettable road trip in Portugal
Dreaming of discovering Portugal at your own pace, fully tailored to your preferences? We’re happy to create a customized trip through Portugal just for you. Stroll through the colorful streets of Lisbon, savor a fresh pastel at Pastéis de Belém, admire the iconic Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, and venture out to charming villages in the Portuguese countryside. From flights and unique accommodations to excursions and culinary experiences, we handle all the planning for you. As your personal travel advisor, we ensure a journey perfectly aligned with your pace, interests, and budget.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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