There is no denying the fact that Lisbon is one of the most vibrant cities in the world and is a melting pot of intrinsic architecture, unique culture, and lip-smacking food. If you plan to visit Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, here are some of the top “Lisbon things to do” that you must not miss.
Take the always busy Tram 28
Tram 28 takes a significant place among the best things to do in Lisbon. If you want to go back in time to experience Belém’s heritage in the best way possible, you must hop onto Tram 28. These vintage trams will teleport you to a different era in no time, and you can watch the city as the streetcar clatters away through the narrow streets. You might have to wait to get on board these beautiful vehicles from the starting point, but the experience takes away the fatigue of waiting. With that said, the Tram 28 must go on top of your Lisbon attractions list.
By Romazur, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Tv. Oliveira à Estrela 19, 1200-613 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: 07:00 am to 11:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/ZswwkwjAHuyCyMeq7 | Phone Number: +351966718793
Belém Tower | Torre de Belém
The Belém Tower sits right on top of the list of things to do in Lisbon. This fortress was constructed in the 1500s and stands as a symbol of classic Portuguese architecture. When you reach the top of the tower, you get the most spectacular view of the river Tagus. You can also get a good view of the famous “Christ the Redeemer” Statue from the top of the Torre de Belém. An important tip that can help you save time is to book entry tickets in advance. This will save you a lot of time, and you need not wait in a long queue.
By Alvesgaspar, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 am – 06:30 pm (May-September) 10:00 am to 05:50 pm (October-April), Monday closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/JrpfCMkiYkEkz47k6 | Phone Number: +351213620034
Beautiful Panoramic view with Miradouro de Senhora do Monte
The Miradouro da Senhora do Monte indeed goes on the top of the things to do in Lisbon. It is very calm, serene and has a great view. The capital city’s panorama from view is breath-taking from here, and you will experience pure indulgence here. You can see the river Tagus in the background and a stunning gradient of the hillside. The chapel of the Lady of the Mount was initially founded in 1147.
By Filipe Rocha, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Largo Monte, 1170-107 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: 24X7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/ZuBLXV9ZiKBdHtCf6
Explore the traditional Lisbon at Alfama District
If you are looking to explore and experience the most ancient forum of Lisbon’s capital city, Alfama District is your go-to. Most people praise the Alfama District for its antique nature, and it is amusing to see how this place dates back to the African Moors. You can wander the streets and alleys of the Alfama District at your own pace and get lost in the vibe. Down your path to Alfama District, you will come across some beautiful cathedrals and tiny cafes to stop for some coffee.
By Ken & Nyetta, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: Av. da República, 1050-189 Lisboa, Portugal | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/tWJvN9Ry7R1Lvtq3A
St. George’s Castle | Castelo de S. Jorge
St. George’s Castle is one of the best places to get a taste of Lisbon’s heritage. It houses a Permanent Exhibition that will tell you a lot about Lisbon’s history and its Moorish neighborhood. This site dates back to the 11th century, and you can witness a ton of elements from the past as you walk around the place. You can choose to explore St. George’s Castle at your own pace, or you can choose a guided tour, which will be more factual and informative.
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By Stefan Didam, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Monday to Sunday 09:00 am – 06:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/RNqp9SYzuNCCbffVA | Phone Number: +351218800620
National Tile Museum | Museu Nacional do Azulejo
If you are wondering what to do in Lisbon, you must check out the Museu Nacional do Azulejo (National Tile Museum), established by Queen Leonor in 1509. The museum houses a massive collection of tiles on which the history of Portugal is etched. When you walk down this place, you will feel like taking a stroll into Portuguese history and its rich cultural heritage.
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By Vitor Oliveira, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: R. Me. Deus 4, 1900-312 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Monday: Closed, Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00am–1:00pm, 2:00pm–5:00pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/GG5yzqkXAx93heZD8 | Phone Number: +351218100340
Go inside one of its kind Lisbon Oceanarium
The Lisbon Oceanarium or Oceanário de Lisboa is known to the world as the giant indoor aquarium in the whole of Europe and is a great family spot. This place is nothing like your common conception of a boring aquarium. The oceanarium houses a huge permanent exhibit and some temporary ones, and they are all amazing alike. You can witness a collection of over 450 species of water creatures and fish here, which is quite overwhelming. Taking a tour around this place is quite informative, and kids will love it too.
Address: Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Monday to Sunday 10 am – 07:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/CZZyK6NgarTEt1ss9 | Phone Number: +351218917000
Jerónimos Monastery
The Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is among the most visited places and one of the top things to do in Lisbon Portugal, and it is ranked so for the best reasons. This place’s architecture will leave you in awe, as it is intricately structured in every corner. Even if you are not an architecture enthusiast, the Jerónimos monastery will be a visual treat for you.
This place is an absolute eye-candy for photographers looking to capture Lisbon’s beauty and its architecture. The Monastery is prone to get crowded because of how famous it is, so making an advance ticket booking is a good idea if you don’t want to stand in a queue for a long time.
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By DAVID HOLT, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 am – 05:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/1UYwboNyWmscAL816 | Phone Number: +351213620034
Oriente Museum | Museu do Oriente
The Museu do Oriente, also known as the Orient Museum, was established in 2008, and as the term “Oriente” suggests, it has to do with Asian artwork. You can find tons of information on the trade connection of the Portuguese with the East, and one of the main highlights of this Museum is the “Gods of Asia” exhibit that features art pieces related to Hinduism and Buddhism.
By Reis Quarteu, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Doca de Alcântara Norte, Av. Brasília, 1350-352 Lisboa, Portugal | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/2Jg3RQfFrnCPDgCN8 | Phone Number: +351213585200
National Museum of Ancient Art | Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga
The National Museum of Ancient Art is a significant one among all the museums in Portugal. It is situated on the banks of river Tagus and houses numerous remarkable paintings by legendary artists like Nuno Gonçalves Vasco Fernandes, Gregório Lopes, and others. You can also find religious sculptures that date back to the Baroque period and other decorative art pieces, including ceramics, carpets, goldware, silverware, porcelain, lacquerware, and textiles.
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By Vitor Oliveira, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: R. das Janelas Verdes, 1249-017 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Monday: Closed, Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00am -6:00pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/s3pnnsxeP49A8vYE6 | Phone Number: +351213912800
Mercado da Ribeira
If you are a foodie at heart, not visiting Mercado da Ribeira is a sin. This legendary food market in the capital has two parts. The downstairs part features a bustling market with fresh, local vegetables and fruits. You need to try the fresh Mediterranean fruits if you ever visit this place. The upstairs part features food stalls and cute little eateries. It is essential to explore local food wherever you go, and Mercado da Ribeira serves this purpose in the best way possible when you are in Lisbon. You can even grab some fine bottles of Portuguese wines to take back home and drink to reminisce about your trip to Portugal.
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Address: Av. 24 de Julho s/n, 1200-481 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Monday to Sunday 10:00 am – 02:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/rjNBuGu933QCDFJX8 | Phone Number: +351213462966
Commerce Square | Praça do Comércio
Lisbon has its fair share of beautiful plazas, and Praça do Comércio is ultimately the lot’s grandest. The aura you feel here as you take a look at the Dom José statue with refreshing, yellow-colored buildings on either side, blue waters in the background, and the stone building of Arco da Rua Augusta are magical.
It is the perfect location to spend an evening with your loved ones, while gazing over the sunset. The ferry terminal towards one side of the Praça do Comércio is just beautiful to look at, and your Lisbon Sightseeing will be incomplete if you don’t wander around the square and get the feels.
By Gabriele Zuffetti, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Praça do Comércio, 1100-148 Lisboa, Portugal | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/aD1nvTVqj9iTP7rf6
Berardo Collection Museum | Museu Coleção Berardo
The Museu Coleção Berardo is a national museum that features pieces relating to the early twentieth century and contemporary art. This museum’s vibe is very versatile as it has a massive collection of work from various artists from different parts of the world with distinct styles.
The list goes from Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Marcel Duchamp, Francis Bacon, Donald Judd, Andy Warhol, and more. There is one entire floor dedicated to historical movements like Dadaism, Surrealism, Pop Art, etc., which is exciting and informative. All through your visit to this museum, you will discover stories about one thing or the other, all fascinating alike.
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Address: Praça do Império, 1449-003 Lisboa, Portugal | Google map location: https://g.page/museuberardo?share | Phone Number: +351213612878
Try the world-famous Pastéis de Belém
Belém’s pastries are world-renowned, and you need to visit Pastéis de Belém to get a taste of the pastries made from the original recipe by using the traditional methods. This place was established in 1837, almost two centuries ago, and the original taste is still retained. Be it the Sortidos, Marmelada, or the Salgados, everything is baked to perfection.
Pastéis de Belém is heaven on land for those who love pastries, and there is no denying that fact. Your sweet tooth will be grateful for the rest of your life if you get a bite of what this place has to offer and it will serve as one of the most indulgent experiences of your life.
By Palickap, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: R. de Belém 84 92, 1300-085 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Monday to Sunday 08:00 am – 08:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/6uLgoK3TtXT8ro4JA | Phone Number: +351213637423
Pena Palace
One of the most popular Lisbon attractions is the Pena Palace in Sintra that looks extremely welcoming with its bright yellow and red hues. The palace is situated atop a hill in Sintra, and the view of the town of Sintra from the hilltop is just perfect. The palace’s long hallways and balconies are grand for clicking photographs, and the aura of the palace is quite captivating. You can stand by the balconies and feel like getting teleported to a different era in no time.
Sintra’s Moorish Castle is situated a little downhill where you can see the long fortress’s remains. The best part about the visit uphill is the view, and you must add it to your itinerary for sure if you are visiting Sintra.
By Peter K Burian, CC BY 4.0, Link
Address: Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal | Timing: Monday to Sunday 10:00 am – 06:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/TB8Uev4zNQj2uWSW9 | Phone Number: +351219237300
Nightlife in Bairro Alto
When on vacation, it goes without saying that you need a fantastic place to kick in some alcohol and have a great evening, and Bairro Alto is our top pick. This bar here is sophisticated and comfortable at the same time. If you want to feel luxurious, there is nothing better than sitting in Bairro alto’s bar while enjoying refined cocktails and great food.
The menu here at Bairro alto is a versatile collection and has a lot of options. The terrace lounge offers a great night view of the city you can enjoy while you can sip away your drink.
Address: Praça Luís de Camões 2, 1200-243 Lisboa, Portugal | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/72wSUEdQckKJNbK6A | Phone Number: +351213408288
Carmo Lift | Santa Justa Lift
Santa Justa lift is probably the most beautiful elevator ever built in forever. The Design of the elevator was curated by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard and was made in 1902. Ponsard was Gustave Eiffel’s student, and you can see some signature elements of Eiffel, such as cast iron craftings, French-style embellishments, and so on.
It is no news that the place gets crowded with many people, especially in the evenings. But if you stick through, you will not regret the view from the top and the sight of this beautiful piece of history up close.
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By Maria Eklind, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: R. do Ouro, 1150-060 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Monday to Sunday 07:00 am – 10:45 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/2CudY7QBLHoWAa5G8 | Phone Number: +351214138679
Time Out Market Lisbon
You can describe the Time Out Market as a modern food hall housing a collection of restaurants with chefs from all of the capital city of Lisbon, some of the lot’s finest. It houses 24 restaurants and 8 bars, serving the best food the city has to offer. There is nothing better than a vast variety of food, conveniently put in the same place, and the foodie in you will be in heaven exploring different tastes. Besides, good local food must be the utmost priority if you are on a trip.
By Dmitry Brant, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Av. 24 de Julho 49, 1200-479 Lisboa, Portugal | Google map location: https://g.page/timeoutmarketlisboa?share | Phone Number: +351213951274
Visit the beautiful palace Fronteira
The Fronteira Palace was built in 1640 and is to date and is considered one of the most incredible things to see in Lisbon. It comprises rooms that house artwork, paintings, and decorative tiles that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The formal gardens surrounding the residence are splendid with historical artwork and beautiful mythological figurines. This privately owned property is open for public visits, and they even have guided tours.
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Address: Largo São Domingos de Benfica 01, 1500-554 Lisboa, Portugal | Google map location: https://g.page/Palaciofronteira?share | Phone Number: +351217782023
Take a Day Trip to Cascais
There is nothing more touristy than visiting the beach, and the sea town of Cascais is one of the most south-after Lisbon tourist attractions. The sandy beaches of Cascais are great to lounge at and get some sun on you and look at the sea. Besides, the lovely little pedestrian walks are great to take a stroll while you experience the restaurants’ best and bars down the path.
Cascais is more of an escape destination for the Lisbon locals, and you will feel no different as a tourist. Besides, you can go thrifting around the small local shops a little away from the sea and gather souvenirs to take back with you after the trip. It is the perfect location to spend a day being nothing but touristy.
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Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/Sgog5Uu3h9aP3Hzw6
Go on a treasure hunt at Mercado de Santa Clara
Mercado de Santa Clara is situated in the market hall, which is the Feira da Ladra market’s epicenter. This place is open only two days a week, but it deserves a place on your itinerary for sure. The pace of this food spot is quite relaxed and is ideal for spending an evening. The Food here is simple yet full of flavors and has a top-notch taste.
The Portuguese feijoada buffet at this place is quite famous and attracts most of the crowd. If you ever visit Lisbon, there is no reason why you should leave without getting a taste of the same.
Address: Campo de Santa Clara, 1100-472 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Saturday, Tuesday 09:00 am -06:00 pm; Remaining days closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/8DBi8sW2SihpNWHf6
Buy Canned fish at Conserveira de Lisboa
It is an unsaid rule to take back food souvenirs wherever you go, and the Conserveira de Lisboa is the top food souvenir spot in Lisbon. This heritage food shop was established in 1930 and is situated in the middle of the city.
People swarm this place to get their hands on some fantastic canned fish collection sold here—especially their canned sardines packed with tons of flavors. The methods that have been used to preserve the fish are very traditional and true to the roots of Lisbon, which is why you should grab a tin or two while visiting.
Address: Rua dos Bacalhoeiros 34, 1100-321 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Monday to Saturday 10:00 am – 07:00 pm Sunday closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/ZpStNvpMWXKc5bxTA | Phone Number: +351218864009
Try some Ginjinha
Ginjinha is considered the traditional national drink of Lisbon, and it has been around for centuries. This liquor drink is primarily made of a particular sour cherry called Morello and is sour cherry, and the process of making it is almost the same as it was in the 17th century. You can find numerous outlets selling this drink, but it is one of Lisbon’s most typical liqueurs, no wonder you come across dozens of bars selling it.
But if we have to pick one, we would go for “A Ginjinha”, one of the top Ginjinha destinations. This drink is served in small shot glasses and is advised to be gulped down the Portuguese way and I must mention that it is almost wasteful if you visit Lisbon and do not have a taste of this wonderful drink.
By Gerd Eichmann, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Largo São Domingos 8, 1100-201 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Monday to Sunday 09:00 am – 10:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/CC9qdtKDctDLw7By9 | Phone Number: +351218145374
Clube de Fado
If you want to get into the Portuguese music scene while enjoying good food, Clube de Fado is the perfect fit for you. The restaurant setting has a warm one to it, and the performance venue looks splendid as well. You can enjoy the regular Portuguese guitar shows and fado performances by famous artists. A fun fact about this restaurant is that the owner Mário Pacheco is the legendary Fado artist António Pacheco’s son, and hence there is no doubt that you are in for some great music. If you are looking for a perfect evening with the quintessential good food and music, this place is just for you.
By Pacopac, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: R. de São João da Praça 86, 1100-135 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Thursday, Friday 08:00 pm – 10:30 pm | Google map location: https://g.page/clubedefado?share | Phone Number: +351218852704
Lisbon Cathedral
Lisbon Cathedral has a medieval-era and austere vibe to it and is a great place to spend some time in the city. The construction of the building was concluded in 1150 and is one of the oldest churches in Portugal. The cathedral features a rose window, which serves as one of the most attractive architectural aspects of rich capital.
By Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Largo da Sé, 1100-585 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Monday to Sunday 09:00 am – 07:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/WvdUJpDhAr8HyR7T7 | Phone Number: +351218866752
Sunset at Cabo da Roca
Sunsets are amazing no matter which part of the world you are in, which holds for Lisbon. If you are looking to spend an evening beside the sea watching the most splendid sunset, there is, you must visit Cabo da Roca. When you stand in Cabo da Roca looking at the sea, it almost feels like all of the land ends there, mainly because it is one of the extreme points of Europe. The lighthouse has a great view of the sea and is pretty cute to take pictures around. The sunsets on the sea are pretty famous as the whole place turns orangish pink and the world suddenly looks different.
Address: Estrada do Cabo da Roca s/n, 2705-001 Colares, Portugal | Timing: 24X7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/Kesptj8XHpmSTM1M7 | Phone Number: +351219280081
Pavilhão do Conhecimento
Pavilhão do Conhecimento translates to “The Pavilion of Knowledge” and is a National Science Centre with exhibits on various aspects of science and technology. You can find a plethora of valuable information on multiple science branches, like physics, ocean science, geography, etc. It is a good place for visiting with kids and is an excellent Lisbon sightseeing spot.
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Address: Largo José Mariano Gago nº1, 1990-073 Lisboa, Portugal | Timing: Thursday, Friday 10:00 am – 06:00 pm, Saturday, Sunday 11:00 am – 07:00 pm, Monday closed, Tuesday, Wednesday 10 am – 6 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/CaMjva6RVR6jF91G8 | Phone Number: +351218917100
With all that said about what to do in Lisbon, it is one of the most beautiful cities globally with a bohemian vibe and a rich heritage. You can witness the reflections of the traditions in everything to see, which is beautiful to experience.