From classic tram rides to eerie mausoleums; historic flea markets and buzzing nightlight, get essentially the most out of the Portuguese capital with our information to chill issues to do in Lisbon
LAST UPDATE: 18 Oct 2023
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My lifetime of crime started in Lisbon.
On an evening hitting the bars in Bairro Alto (one of many unmissable issues to do in Lisbon), we heard rumors of a black market in pastel de nata.
The bakeries work by way of the evening getting the scrumptious parcels delivered to native cafes very first thing within the morning. Entrepreneurial bakers promote them to partygoers instantly from the bakery’s basement window.
After some speedy analysis, we positioned the bakery and I used to be nominated to transact the deal. I waited my flip and bought 4 bootleg baked items at €1 every. Extortion. However this was the black market in spite of everything.
Somebody yelled that the cops had been coming so we fled the scene with our pastries. Adrenaline was excessive. Disgrace and guilt adopted. Then concern.
As I bit into my pastel de nata, the pastry audibly crackling from freshness, custard nonetheless heat, ideas surrendered to pure bliss.
My lifetime of crime ended that evening, and I’ve since moved on to different issues to do in Lisbon.
1 – SÃO JORGE CASTLE
Castelo de São Jorge was as soon as a Moorish fort, however subsequent occupiers have altered the constructing considerably. Because it operated because the Royal Palace from the thirteenth to the Sixteenth century, it’s misplaced little of its grandeur.
Probably the most compelling facet of the fort is the gorgeous view over the town partitions and the Atlantic Ocean. Lisbon’s patchwork of terracotta tiles interrupted solely by slim rambling lanes is in itself a beautiful factor to do in Lisbon.
The small museum within the fort has seen higher days, so hurry by way of after your go to to discover the São Jorge Hill neighborhood.
The outdated city streets surrounding the fort all the way in which right down to the Lisbon Cathedral are filled with environment.
Cease in at Chapitô à Mesa for a glass of Portuguese wine with a view to recollect.
DETAILS | SÃO JORGE CASTLE
hours – 9 am to 9 pm day by day (March – November); 9 am to 7 pm day by day (November – March) | tickets – e-book skip-the-line tickets with a 15-minute guided introduction
2 – SÃO VICENTE DE FORA
The Church of São Vicente de Fora has had a chequered historical past. It was devastated within the 1755 earthquake and renovated all through the seventeenth century.
Immediately it’s an beautiful hidden gem that homes the tombs of many Portuguese Kings.
The church itself is respectable, however the cloisters subsequent door are completely spectacular. Lisbon’s story-telling azulejos cowl the partitions beneath white vaulted ceilings.
The vestry partitions are coated with elaborate marble designs and intricately painted ceilings.
Royal Pantheon – The spotlight at São Vicente de Fora is the Royal Pantheon which comprises the tombs of crusaders. Hold an eye fixed out for the cloaked weeping girl standing watch over one of many tombs.
São Vicente Terraces – The rooftop terraces present the most effective 360° views of the Lisbon skyline.
DETAILS | SÃO VICENTE DE FORA
hours – 10 AM – 6 PM Tuesday to Saturday | price – €5 for the cloister, crypt, cistern & roof.
3 – FEIRA DA LADRA (THIEVES’ MARKET)
On the sq. beside the Nationwide Pantheon, the Feira da Ladra flea market (also referred to as the Thieves’ Market) takes place twice every week (Tue & Sat).
Tales counsel the identify is because of the truth that the market is stocked with stolen items, nevertheless, it truly comes from ladro referring to a bug present in antiques.
The market sells all the things from outdated rotary telephones, to damaged mannequins plus pre-loved vinyl, handmade crafts, CD’s, navy objects, and classic furnishings.
Stroll round absorbing the environment and also you’ll be having fun with the most effective free issues to do in Lisbon.
There are many atmospheric locations to seize lunch close to the market. Tabernita is a cheery spot for conventional Portuguese or you can strive a hip break at Copenhagen Espresso Lab just some minutes stroll away.
4 – PANTEÃO NACIONAL
The putting baroque Nationwide Palace was initially constructed as a church. Immediately, it homes monuments to the nice and the great, linked to the golden period of Portuguese historical past.
Like many landmarks in Lisbon, it pays specific homage to Vasco da Gama, the sea-faring hero who returned fabulous wealth to Portugal.
Climbing the steps to achieve the inner perimeter of the domed roof gives the most effective view of what Sixteenth-century cash should buy. The doorway is lavishly adorned with geometrical marble flooring. The plush gold detailing and grand stone columns make it really feel imperious.
Rooftop Views – As a dominant characteristic within the Lisbon skyline, the distinctive view from the roof was one in every of our favorite experiences in Lisbon.
DETAILS | PANTEÃO NACIONAL
hours – 10 AM – 5 PM (October – March); 10 AM – 6 PM (April – September); closed Monday | price – €4 | tickets – onsite or on-line
5 – JERÓNIMO’S CHURCH & MONASTERY
A number of the wealth generated from Portugal’s Age of Discovery was spent erecting magnificent monuments. Few are extra spectacular than Jerónimos Monastery.
Constructed to commemorate the return of Vasco da Gama from India, it’s one in every of Lisbon’s UNESCO World Heritage Websites.
The church additionally comprises the tomb of Luís de Camões, a Portuguese poet. His tomb is going through that of his spouse to allow them to be collectively when they’re resurrected. Stained-glass home windows illuminate the tombs in an eerie ethereal method.
The cloister has a exceptional vaulted ceiling, held aloft by intricately carved stone pillars. Though there’s a payment to enter, it’s properly value it.
Capturing the photograph alternatives of the golden arches of the internal courtyard is a magical factor to do in Lisbon.
DETAILS | JERÓNIMO’S CHURCH & MONASTERY
hours – 10:30 am – 5:30 pm (October – April); 10:30 am – 6:30 pm (Could – September); closed Monday | price – €10 | tickets – e-book skip-the-line tickets
6 – MUSEU COLEÇÃO BERARDO
Museu Coleção Berardo is Lisbon’s finest fashionable artwork providing. Situated close to the favored Belem space, the gallery has two everlasting collections. Additionally they run two short-term exhibitions.
The gallery is a superb area to walk round and one thing we extremely advocate making time for whereas visiting Lisbon.
The everlasting assortment is well-labeled and provides a historical past lesson within the growth of recent artwork.
A number of the artists embody Picasso, Duchamp, Miró, Warhol, together with some lesser-known Portuguese artists.
The British and American pop-art exhibition was a spotlight on our go to. Works included Andy Warhol and David Hockney.
The gallery has an academic program geared toward kids 2 years and up, designed to assist them work together with artwork.
DETAILS | MUSEU COLEÇÃO BERARDO
hours – 10 AM – 7 PM Tuesday to Sunday; closed Monday | price – €5; free entry first Sunday of each month | tickets – on-site or on-line
7 – BELÉM
Sitting on the banks of the Tagus River, the Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) was initially constructed to guard Lisbon. As a superb instance of Manueline structure, it has been acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. In contrast to Jerónimos, Belém Tower wears its magnificence on the surface.
The queue to climb to the highest will be oppressive and we truly don’t advocate it. A a lot better concept is to spend your time strolling the Belém promenade. On a balmy night, that is one in every of our favourite issues to do in Lisbon at no cost.
WHAT TO DO IN BELEM
- {Photograph} Padrão dos Descobrimentos, the monument to Portugal’s navigational prowess.
- Discover a spot on the entrance to absorb the views of Lisbon’s Ponte 25 de Abri Bridge.
- Belém embraces Lisbon’s love of music with numerous stay bands busking on the promenade or within the close by park.
- Scoff the most effective pastal de nata at Antiga Confeitara de Belém – one establishment that’s value queueing for.
8 – LX FACTORY
LX Manufacturing facility was an outdated textile manufacturing facility that has been transformed into a contemporary and inventive area. Situated beneath a railway line, it’s a mannequin of city renewal.
There’s a group of impartial retailers together with design retailers, artwork provides, and classic boutiques.
The restaurant scene is dominated by environmentally thoughtful fashionable choices. We cherished Taberna 1300 for dinner and Landeau Chocolate for his or her mouth-watering desserts.
LX Manufacturing facility in all probability caters extra to vacationers than locals. However with cooking lessons, a tattooist, an appearing faculty, and a pole dancing studio, it’s value a little bit of time to scratch beneath the floor.
DON’T MISS | LIVRARIA LER DEVAGAR
The Ler Devagar Bookstore within the LX Manufacturing facility is likely one of the most photographic areas in Lisbon.
9 – TRAM 28
For those who had been to design the proper sightseeing route by way of Lisbon, it might be the quantity 28 tram. It begins from Martim Moniz, climbs by way of the slim streets of the outdated city, progresses by way of Baixa, and up the hill to Chiado.
The entire expertise is like being in an outdated film. The chrome particulars, the scent of polished wooden, the hiss of breaks, and the rattle of the traditional machine tackling Lisbon’s hills.
HIGHLIGHTS ON THE TRAM 28 ROUTE
- Cease at R Palma to see the attractive Chafariz do Intendente fountain in-built 1823.
- The Igreja Dos Anjos is a shocking baroque church positioned close to cease Ingreja Anjos.
- A number of the finest views are at Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte.
- Cease for a drink at Miradouro das Portas do So whereas admiring the crimson rooftops and pastel-colored homes of Alfama.
Tip for avoiding the queues — The place to begin for Tram 28 is Martim Moniz, however in case you get on on the second cease, R. Palma, you’ll discover it a lot simpler to get on.
The Viva Viagem Card can be utilized to pay for Tram 28 making it the most effective low cost issues to do in Lisbon
10 – MIRADOURO DE SÃO PEDRO DE ALCÃNTARA
Set excessive on a panoramic backyard, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcãntara is likely one of the finest lookout factors in Lisbon.
Greek busts and ornate fountains give the place a lofty regal really feel and it has sweeping views throughout Lisbon and the Tagus River. T
There are many locations on the prime to seize a drink and take within the view.
Elevador de Glória – The easiest way to get to the point of view is by way of the Elevador de Glória, a funicular that trudges up the hill from Rossio. The realm is properly often called the middle of Lisbon’s road artwork scene, with the tram itself coated in graffiti.
The wall on the aspect of the observe has works by native and worldwide road artwork stars. Exploring this aspect of the town is likely one of the coolest issues to do in Lisbon
WALKING TOUR | NEIGHBOURHOODS OF LISBON
This guided tour explores life within the native neighborhoods of Lisbon and contains the Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara.
11 – IGREJA DE SÃO DOMINGOS
The Igreja de São Domingos is an atmospheric church that has had its fair proportion of struggling.
It was severely broken within the 1755 earthquake, then devastated by a hearth in 1959. The roof was destroyed and has been rebuilt, however the reconstruction left the partitions scarred – a bodily reminder of each occasions.
The drama is seen once you enter the church.
Enormous, gashed pillars and badly broken partitions give it a macabre but someway enchanting environment.
A lot of the art work that was broken within the hearth hasn’t been changed. The impact is orange partitions lit by harsh unfiltered gentle wanting naked and uncovered.
It’s one of the attention-grabbing issues to see and do in Lisbon.
DETAILS | IGREJA DE SÃO DOMINGOS
hours – 7:30 AM to 7 PM day by day | price – free | don’t miss – Lisbon’s well-known cherry brandy store, A Ginjinha within the sq..
12 – PRÍNCIPE REAL
One of many cool issues about Lisbon is the range of its areas. For a lazy stroll exploring the native bohemian aspect of city, head for Príncipe Actual.
It’s dwelling to artists, writers, pop-up designers, and creatives. The general vibe is relaxed, with comparatively tourist-free buying and eating.
A lot of the sights are centered round Praça do Príncipe Actual. This small backyard is lined with mansions which were transformed into design studios and idea shops.
Embaixada is a shopping mall in a shocking Moorish palace. It options Portuguese designers, meals, and experiences.
After exploring the buying, strive a cocktail at Cinco Lounge. Their mix of traditional and up to date cocktails are served in a luxurious candle-lit setting.
For a terrific dinner within the space, it’s exhausting to go previous Gin Lovers for his or her progressive meals and love of the botanical.
13 – CONVENTO DO CARMO
What stays of the gothic Convento do Carmo is a reminder of the devastation of the 1755 earthquake. It’s additionally a product of Nineteenth-century style for leaving ruins unrestored.
Now open to the sky, the positioning options uncovered arches and freestanding partitions. Statues, tombstones, and pillars are scattered about.
The Carmo Archaeological Museum is positioned within the outdated nave of the church. It homes a bizarre and wacky assortment of artifacts donated within the Nineteenth century.
Among the many treasures, you will discover the tomb of King Ferdinand I, an Egyptian mummy, and two very grotesque Peruvian mummies.
Barely much less disturbing is the Sixteenth-century azulejo (hand-painted tile) assortment.
DETAILS | CONVENTO DO CARMO
hours – 10 AM to six PM Monday – Saturday (November – April); 10 AM to 7 PM Monday – Saturday (Could – October) | price – €5
14 – A CEVICHERIA
After a morning buying in Bairro Alto and Príncipe Actual, cease for lunch at A Cevicheria. The premise of the menu is the Peruvian dish Ceviche, served with Portuguese flavours and aptitude. The scallops with celery, ginger, tapioca and inexperienced apple had been an enormous hit with us.
Attempt to rating a seat on the counter the place you’ll be able to watch the handiwork of the cooks creating dishes with cautious precision. For those who like lunch served with a little bit of drama that is the place for you.
With a large octopus hooked up to the roof, it captures the eye of passers-by, jealous of your ringside seat.
They’ve an in depth wine listing, however all the things is washed down completely with their pisco sours.
15 – FADO
Listening to the wistful warbling of Fado music is a type of issues to do in Lisbon that everybody ought to expertise at the very least as soon as.
An evening of Fado often takes place in a small native restaurant the place a solo voice is accompanied by Portuguese guitarra.
It’s a completely transferring expertise.
On-line you’ll hear lots about genuine and not-so-authentic Fado, which little question has some advantage. However as a vacationer new to the expertise, it’s in all probability finest to simply decide on a spot you’re pleased with.
An excellent strategy is to walk by way of Bairro Alto.
Wher you hear singing wafting onto the road is an efficient place to begin. Alternatively, A Tasca do Chico provides a terrific worth fado expertise.
16 – PRAÇA DO COMÉRCIO
The harbor-facing plaza, Praça do Comércio, is likely one of the largest in Portugal and essentially the most stunning in Europe.
The sq. was fully reworked after the earthquake and in the present day it’s the seat of the Portuguese state departments.
Grand arcades, a colossal statue of King José I, and exquisite views of the river mix with completely touristy cafes.
We’d advocate avoiding the eating places, however Praça do Comércio is a superb photograph alternative in Lisbon.
17 – DAY TRIP TO SINTRA
Sintra is a flamboyant nod to Romanticism simply 40 minutes from Lisbon.
The ornamental royal retreat comprises a mixture of Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance structure.
The result’s a fairy story location with whimsical palaces, unique gardens and a bunch of magical locations to discover.
The centre of the hilltop city is a maze of pedestrian laneways. It’s the proper place to complete your Sintra tour after a day strolling by way of the grounds of the palaces.
The easiest way to get to Sintra is on the practice from Rossio Station which takes simply 40 minutes. All the small print are in our information to visiting Sintra on a day journey from Lisbon.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN LISBON
Lisbons has so many world-class sights, UNESCO World Heritage Websites and great issues to try this it’s inconceivable to suit them multi function curated information. In case you have extra time, listed below are just a few extra issues to contemplate. For extra learn our 3 days in Lisbon itinerary.
LISBON CATHEDRAL
The Romanesque Lisbon Cathedral dates again to the twelfth century. With an imposing facade and two bell towers on both aspect, it rises like a medieval fortress from the outdated city. It’s open from 9 am to 7 pm and price €5 to enter.
CALOUSTE GULBENKIAN FOUNDATION
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is taken into account one of the necessary non-public artwork collections on the earth. Masterpieces from historic Egypt sit alongside works by Rubens, Rembrandt and Turner.
The museum is open from 10 am to 6pm Monday to Wednesday and prices €10. Admission is free on Sundays after 2 pm. Extra particulars at – gulbenkian.pt
SANTA JUSTA ELEVATOR
Using the splendid polished wooden carriages with geometric wrought-iron frames on the Elevator de Santa Justa is likely one of the hottest issues to do in Lisbon. Skip-the-line tickets are usually not obtainable however you need to use your Viva Viagem card for entry. (see particulars beneath)
QUAKE
The earthquake of 1755 had a transformative impact on Lisbon. Quake – Lisbon’s latest immersive expertise – combines video mapping, interactive know-how and state-of-the-art simulators to relive the occasions of 1755.
The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm (Mon-Solar), 10 am to 6 pm (Sat-Solar). E book tickets on-line by way of their web site – lisbonquake.com
LISBON PORTUGAL MAP
We collected all our must-see Lisbon sights on a map that will help you navigate your approach round. For some ideas on find out how to put all of it collectively over a brief journey, learn our Lisbon itinerary for 3 days.
Methods to use this map / Click on on the highest left of the map to show the listing of areas, then click on on the areas to show additional data. Click on on the highest proper nook of the map to open a bigger model in a brand new tab or the star to save lots of to your Google Maps.
LIVE MUSIC IN LISBON
It’s no shock that the nightlife in Lisbon is alive and kicking. Bairro Alto is one massive road occasion and the epicenter of the stay music scene in Lisbon.
Páginas Tantas // Observe the graceful sounds of jazz drifting out of this small neighborhood bar and also you gained’t be dissatisfied.
Portas Largas // Hit the dance ground to 80’s classics with Portuguese sympathies at this enjoyable little bar within the coronary heart of Bairro Alto.
Museu da Musica // Music buffs shouldn’t miss this museum with a variety of devices from well-known to obscure. Concert events are held commonly.
WINE & COCKTAILS IN LISBON
Portugal’s love affair with wine will be an all-consuming expertise and there’s nothing flawed with that. Listed here are a few of our favorites.
Antiga Wine Bar // This cozy little wine bar in Alfama has a curated listing served with wonderful tapas created from native substances.
Cinco Lounge // A gorgeous area with artful and progressive cocktails, Cino Lounge is ideal for a fairly refined drink.
OUR PICK OF THE LISBON FOOD SCENE
A Cevicheria // Completely crafted seafood dishes are ready on the bar of this particular expertise. Watch deft arms creating uncommon ceviche dishes when you sip a glowing.
Taberna da Rua das Flores // This tiny however charming eatery has a small menu of conventional Portuguese choices cooked with easy loving aptitude.
Restaurante Pharmacia // A contemporary high quality eating institution that takes the pharmacy theme with dedication from decor to dish.
Artis Wine Bar // The darkish and intimate Artis Wine Bar was our favourite place to eat. Easy well-cooked Portuguese classics with a small menu and native attraction.
Time Out Market // This sprawling meals market is a highly regarded place to eat with an enormous number of consuming locations beneath one roof.
COFFEE IN LISBON
Espresso is one thing we don’t skimp on after we journey and the artisanal espresso scene has left its mark on Lisbon.
Hi there, Kristof // This can be a coaching heart for specialty espresso completely crafted. Additionally they have a small number of breakfast decisions.
Copenhagen Espresso Lab // There are just a few in Lisbon now however they’re nonetheless a straightforward go-to selection for a persistently good espresso in a pleasant area.
Heim Café // This can be a vibrant enjoyable spot with respectable espresso, however it’s their wonderful brunch choices that actually make it stand out from the remaining.
Fábrica Espresso Roaster // If you’re in search of a broody, well-textured darkish roast that is the place for you.
WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON
Sadly, Airbnb has priced many locals out of Lisbon, so we’d advocate reserving a resort if attainable.
Lisbon is a comparatively compact metropolis, nevertheless it’s nonetheless a good suggestion to remain as centrally as attainable. We advocate staying in Baixa/Chiado, Bairro Alto or Alfama. All these areas ooze the attraction you’re in search of in Lisbon they usually’re centrally positioned.
BUDGET
CASA C’ALMA
Casa C’Alma is a fantastically adorned B&B with a small, pleasant vibe and a giant continental breakfast. It’s positioned in a beautiful neighborhood about 1 mile from the town heart with loads of restaurant choices close by.
OUR PICK
MID-MARKET
CASA BALTHAZAR
The fashionable, self-catering flats of Casa Balthazar are bang within the heart of city, but exude a relaxed chilled-out calm. The views are excellent however improve to the Jacuzzi Terrace room for spacious luxurious with landmark views.
UPMARKET
MEMMO ALFAMA
For an emphasis on design with all the most recent devices, it’s exhausting to go previous Memmo Alfama to your Lisbon keep. Though surrounded by a few of the finest sights in Lisbon, will probably be exhausting to go away the rooftop bar and pool with sweeping views over the Tagus River.
LISBON DISCOUNT CARDS & ATTRACTION TICKETS
Most sights in Lisbon don’t require pre-booking. However, in case you’re visiting throughout peak occasions, you might need to e-book forward to beat the queue.
LISBON CARD
The Lisbon Card gives entry to 23 museums making it a really cost-effective strategy to see the primary sights. It additionally contains free tram passes and elevators, together with entry to the Elevator de Santa Justa.
ATTRACTIONS TO PRE-BOOK
Fado // Nothing takes you into the soul of Lisbon greater than a Fado present. The 50-minute efficiency options 2 singers and a couple of guitarists who will serenade you into the wee hours. E book tickets right here.
Quantity 28 Tram // The quantity 28 tram will be busy and troublesome to get on to. If you wish to take the stress away, e-book this tram and strolling tour expertise to be taught extra about Lisbon’s totally different neighborhoods and its historical past of intriguing road artwork.
Museu Coleção Berardo // Queues at Lisbon’s finest fashionable artwork providing will be lengthy, so pre-book skip the queue tickets earlier than you go.
HOW TO GET AROUND LISBON
Lisbon is a compact metropolis and the easiest way to see it’s on foot. Nevertheless, it additionally has a complete public transport community together with trams, funiculars, buses and a metro which simply connects you to varied components of the town.
Viva Viagam Card // Lisbon’s public transport card is Viva Viagem, a fast and simple strategy to pay for all of your journey. The cardboard prices €.50 and will be charged with particular person tickets, a day cross (€6.40 / £5.95 / $7.90), or with a stability of as much as €40 to make use of as pay-as-you-go.
Our Lisbon Itinerary // Our 3-day Lisbon itinerary places all the things in the suitable order, and permits you to stroll between many of the prime issues to do in Lisbon.
BEST TIME TO GO TO LISBON
One of the best time to go to Lisbon is throughout the shoulder seasons of March to Could and September to October. That is the most effective time to discover the town on foot when the temperatures are usually snug and there are fewer guests.
You may also snap up a cut price with lodging locations barely cheaper over this era.
As with most European locations, summer time is the height season when each the temperature and customer numbers are excessive. In winter it may be moist and windy, though in Lisbon it’s hardly ever uncomfortably chilly.
HOW LONG DO YOU NEED IN LISBON?
A lot of the most important sights in Lisbon may very well be seen in 2 days. It’s a comparatively compact metropolis with good native transport, subsequently, getting between all the primary sights is environment friendly.
Nevertheless, our advice is to spend 3 days in Lisbon. This lets you see all of the spectacular historic sights and luxuriate in some native experiences. It additionally leaves slightly time to wander the streets and absorb the environment.
Add a fourth day and take a day journey to Sintra. It’s a beautiful place to go to and simple to do both by yourself or by becoming a member of a tour.
THANKS FOR VISITING // WHERE NEXT?
