Things to Do in Lisbon
Lisbon has plenty of fascinating attractions such as the Cathedral, the Belem Tower, St. George's Castle, and the Museu dos Coches. Discover the must-see places in Lisbon!
Lisbon is a city with picturesque streets, wonderful weather, fantastic food and so much to see. Whether it's indulging in some fresh pastel de nata pastries, admiring the city's architectural masterpieces of Belém Tower or Lisbon Cathedral, or strolling through the Praça do Comércio, the Portuguese capital city has plenty for visitors to enjoy.
Regardless of where your interests lie, this comprehensive travel guide will walk you through how you can best enjoy the city's art, history, cuisine, and more in this stunning city. A good option to see this charming capital is joining a free tour of Lisbon or a complete tour including entrance fees to explore iconic sites such as the Praça do Comércio, the Santa Justa Lift, or the Rua Augusta Arch.
Lisbon's Top Attractions
A walk through the city's historic center of Alfama is a must when visiting Lisbon. Stroll through its maze of narrow streets, steep staircases, and old buildings adorned with traditional azulejos (ceramic tiles). Enjoy soulful Fado music and the imposing São Jorge Castle from the fifth century, which lies atop the highest point of the city and provides incredible views of the metropolis below. Another great way to enjoy the views is via a boat ride down the Tajo River, where you can also admire the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. Or you can opt for a magical sunset along the river if you wish to see other famous monuments like the Sanctuary of Christ the King or the Monument of the Discoveries.
Make your way onto the iconic Lisbon Cathedral (commonly referred to as the Sé), a 12th-century monument that has been witness to much of the city's storied history. Another must-visit is the Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square), once a crucial location for maritime trade, and the site of the old Royal Palace. See many of these essential monuments and more as part of this Free Walking Tour of Lisbon or Lisbon Private Tour.
For a slightly alternative experience, especially for family trips, purchase a ticket to Lisbon's Oceanarium to discover what is commonly accepted to be one of the top aquariums in the world, with thousands of sea creatures and numerous fascinating, interactive exhibits to enjoy. Interested in enjoying a Portuguese wine tasting or going up Lisbon's cable car? This city has plans for everyone!
Must-Visit Neighbourhoods
There are lots of neighborhoods to discover in the city, each with its own unique vibe. Everywhere you turn, there's a different piece of history and culture to experience. To get in contact with Lisbon's old town, make your way to the aforementioned Alfama (and maybe go on this Free Walking Tour of Alfama) and wander through the oldest district in the city. Here, you'll see the Lisbon Cathedral and the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, one of the most visited places in Lisbon. Keep in mind that this area is quite hilly, so you might want to make use of the famous 28 Tram to get to this area.
Chiado is one of the more elegant sides of the city, perfect for those in search of a cultural experience. Highly renowned for its theatres, museums, and shops, there are plenty of things to do and see in this buzzy side of town. Belém is a little while outside of the city center, but it's an absolute must when visiting Lisbon. Home to the respective UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Belém Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery, and also the birthplace of the Pastel de Nata—you won't regret making the journey! Both Belém Tower and a ticket to the Jeronimos Monastery are included in the Lisbon Card.
Staying in Lisbon for Longer?
If you’ve visited the city’s top attractions and museums, we recommend checking out one or two of Lisbon’s nearby regions and towns:
With its monuments, incredible views of the Tagus, vibrant cultural offerings, and rich gastronomy, Lisbon is a city with something for everyone! If you want more ideas about what to do in Lisbon, don't hesitate to continue reading our guide.
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