Lisbon Travel Guide

Lisbon may be Portugal’s biggest city, but it’s far from an overwhelming capital. Built across seven hills and spilling down to the River Tagus, it’s a city where cobbled streets lead you past tiled facades, old yellow trams rattle uphill, and the scent of grilled sardines drifts from tiny taverns. You can tick off the big sights – the ornate Jerónimos Monastery, the hilltop São Jorge Castle – but Lisbon’s real charm lies in its everyday life, with neighbors chatting from wrought-iron balconies, fado music drifting from a tucked-away bar in Alfama, and markets piled high with fresh seafood. It’s also a city on the move, with creative hubs in former factories, stylish rooftop terraces, and some of the best nightlife in Europe. Give yourself a few days – you’ll want time to wander, linger, and climb just one more hill for another view.

Where is Lisbon?

Lisbon sits on Portugal’s west coast, where the River Tagus meets the Atlantic Ocean. It’s the country’s largest city and its political, cultural, and economic hub.

Often counted among the best places to visit in Portugal, Lisbon is a natural starting point for any Portugal itinerary. From here, you can take day trips to the palaces of Sintra, relax on the beaches of Cascais, or travel south to the Algarve for more sun and sea.

How to get around Lisbon

Lisbon is hilly but compact, with plenty of public transport and walkable neighborhoods. The city’s network of trams, buses, and metro makes it easy to move between districts, though be prepared for some steep climbs if you’re exploring on foot.

• Metro: Lisbon’s metro links the airport, city center, and many outer districts across four lines. It’s clean, quick, and runs from around 6:30 am to 1 am. For multiple days, the 24-hour public transport pass (around €6.80) covers metro, buses, and most trams.
• Bus: Carris buses reach areas not served by the metro, including viewpoints like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and neighborhoods such as Campo de Ourique. They run daily from early morning to late evening. Fares are about €2 onboard, slightly cheaper with a Viva Viagem card.
• Tram: Lisbon’s iconic trams are part transport, part attraction. Tram 28 winds through historic districts like Alfama and Graça, while Tram 15 connects the center to Belém. A single ride is around €3 onboard – but expect queues on popular routes.
• Car: Driving in central Lisbon is not recommended. Streets can be narrow, parking is pricey, and traffic is heavy in peak hours. Renting a car makes more sense for trips to Sintra, Cascais, or the Alentejo.
• Taxi/Uber: Taxis are plentiful and run on a meter, with base fares starting around €3.50. Uber and Bolt operate citywide and are often cheaper for airport runs or late-night rides when public transport is limited.

How long to spend in Lisbon?

If you’re wondering how many days in Lisbon is enough, plan for at least three days to cover the highlights at a relaxed pace. This gives you time to explore Alfama, Mouraria, and Baixa, visit the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, and enjoy the views from some of the city’s best miradouros (viewpoints).

If you have more time, Lisbon makes a great base for a 5 days in Portugal itinerary. Spend three days in the city itself, then use the remaining time for day trips – the palaces of Sintra, the beaches of Cascais, or the dramatic cliffs at Cabo da Roca are all within easy reach. A longer stay also lets you discover lesser-known spots like LX Factory or the Jardim da Estrela, perfect for slowing down and soaking up local life.

Where to stay in Lisbon

Lisbon has accommodation to suit every budget and style. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to stay in Lisbon, depending on how you like to travel.

• First-time visitors: Baixa/Chiado: Stay in Baixa or neighboring Chiado for easy access to Lisbon’s main sights. These central districts put you close to Praça do Comércio, the Santa Justa Lift, and Rossio Square. You’ll have plenty of shops, cafés, and restaurants at your doorstep, plus tram and metro connections to other parts of the city. It’s busy and touristy, but if it’s your first visit and you want to be in the thick of things, this is the spot.
• For couples: Alfama: Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood offers winding lanes, tiled facades, and sweeping views over the River Tagus. Alfama’s intimate restaurants and traditional fado houses create a romantic atmosphere, especially at night. Many guesthouses here are in beautifully restored buildings, and you can walk to São Jorge Castle or hop on Tram 28 right outside your door.
• For foodies and nightlife lovers: Bairro Alto: Bairro Alto is Lisbon’s after-dark hub, packed with bars, live music venues, and late-night eateries. By day, it’s quieter, with boutique shops and street art to discover. You’re also steps from Chiado and the viewpoint at Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. If you like rooftop bars, creative cocktails, and lively streets after sunset, you’ll feel right at home here.
• For families: Parque das Nações: This modern riverside district is ideal if you’re exploring Portugal with kids. Wide, flat promenades make it easy to walk or cycle, and attractions like the Lisbon Oceanarium, cable cars, and family-friendly parks are all here. Hotels are spacious, public transport is excellent, and it’s quieter than the city center while still being just 20 minutes away by metro.

What to do in Lisbon

Lisbon is a mix of old-world charm and modern creativity – tiled facades next to sleek rooftop bars, centuries-old monuments alongside buzzing food markets. Here are some of the best things to do in Lisbon to get a real feel for the city.

#1 Belém Tower

Belém Tower is Lisbon’s most photographed landmark, standing guard at the edge of the River Tagus since the 16th century. Built as a fortress and ceremonial gateway, it’s a striking mix of Manueline and Moorish styles. Inside, you can climb narrow stone steps to the top for river views, though space is tight and queues are common.

It’s busiest in late morning, especially with tour groups, so aim for opening time or late afternoon when the light is softer. Even if you don’t go inside, walking around the tower and along the waterfront is worth the trip. Combine it with the nearby Jerónimos Monastery and a stop for a pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém – they’ve been making them here since 1837.

#2 Jerónimos Monastery

This UNESCO-listed monastery is a showcase of Portugal’s wealth during the Age of Discoveries. The ornate cloisters, carved from pale limestone, are among the most beautiful in Europe, with every arch and column covered in intricate maritime motifs.

The church is free to enter, but the cloisters require a ticket, worth every cent for the peace and detail inside. Lines can be long, so pre-book or arrive early. The scale and craftsmanship are breathtaking, but it’s also a reminder of Lisbon’s role in global trade and exploration. Best for history lovers, architecture fans, and anyone wanting a break from the city’s hills – the terrain here is mercifully flat.

#3 Alfama District

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood – a tangle of steep lanes, hidden courtyards, and laundry fluttering overhead. It survived the 1755 earthquake, so wandering here is like stepping back centuries. You’ll hear fado music drifting from small taverns and find viewpoints that open suddenly between buildings.

The area is best explored on foot, but wear good shoes – the cobbles are uneven and the hills steep. Go early for quiet streets, or in the evening when bars and restaurants fill with music. It’s touristy in parts, but turn down the smaller alleys and you’ll stumble across family-run shops, neighbors chatting from balconies, and everyday life that hasn’t changed much in decades.

#4 Tram 28 Ride

This rattling yellow tram has become a Lisbon icon, winding from Martim Moniz through Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and up to Estrela. The route covers many of the city’s highlights, but it’s also a working tram – locals use it daily.

It gets crowded fast, especially in summer. If you want a seat, board at the start of the line early in the morning. The ride is slow but scenic, passing tiled facades, hilltop viewpoints, and streets so narrow you could touch the walls. It’s not the cheapest way to get around, but it’s one of the most atmospheric.

#5 LX Factory

Once an industrial complex, LX Factory is now a creative hub filled with indie shops, design studios, Lisbon street art, and some of the city’s trendiest cafés. The atmosphere is relaxed by day, livelier at night when the bars and restaurants fill up.

It’s a great place to shop for unique souvenirs, browse quirky bookstores, or have brunch away from the tourist center. On Sundays, there’s a market selling everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothes. Not a must-see for first-timers short on time, but perfect for those wanting a different side of Lisbon.

#6 Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Lisbon has plenty of viewpoints, but this one tops them all for sheer scale. From here, you can see the castle, the river, and the 25 de Abril Bridge all in one sweep. It’s less crowded than the better-known Miradouro de Santa Catarina, though it still draws a steady stream of visitors.

Come at sunset for golden light over the city’s red rooftops. There’s a small kiosk for drinks and snacks, and plenty of space to sit and linger. It’s a bit of a climb if you’re on foot, but that’s part of why the crowds are smaller.

#7 Time Out Market

Time Out Market is Lisbon’s gourmet food hall, home to a mix of top chefs, local favorites, and international eats – all under one roof. You can sample dishes from some of the city’s best-known restaurants without booking a table months in advance.

It’s busy at lunch and dinner, so grab a table early or visit mid-afternoon. Prices are higher than a neighborhood tasca, but the variety and quality make it worth it. A good choice for groups, picky eaters, or anyone short on time who wants to taste a lot in one go.

#8 São Jorge Castle

Perched on a hilltop above Alfama, São Jorge Castle offers sweeping views over Lisbon and the Tagus River. The current structure dates mainly from the 11th century, though the site’s history goes back much further. Inside, you can walk along the battlements, explore the courtyards, and visit a small museum.

It’s popular with tour groups, so mornings are quieter. The climb up from Baixa is steep – take a tram or tuk-tuk if you want to save your legs. The views alone are worth the ticket price, but the castle also gives you a sense of Lisbon’s strategic past.

#9 Praça do Comércio

This grand riverside square is framed by yellow arcaded buildings and opens directly onto the Tagus. Once the site of the royal palace, it’s now a place to stroll, people-watch, and soak up the sense of space rare in Lisbon’s tight streets.

From here, you can walk along the riverfront, explore Baixa, or visit the Lisboa Story Centre for an interactive look at the city’s history. It’s especially atmospheric in the late afternoon, when the arcades glow in the setting sun.

#10 Day trip to Sintra

Just 40 minutes from Lisbon by train, Sintra is a fairytale town of palaces, gardens, and misty hilltops. The colorful Pena Palace is the star attraction, but there’s also the Gothic-inspired Quinta da Regaleira and the dramatic Moorish Castle.

Sintra gets packed, especially in summer, so start early and focus on two or three sites rather than trying to see everything. Bring layers – the weather here is cooler and less predictable than Lisbon. It’s one of the easiest and most rewarding escapes from the city.

Weather in Lisbon

Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The best time to visit Portugal depends on the kind of trip you’re after, and Lisbon offers something in every season. The city gets more sunshine than most European capitals, but you’ll still want to pack layers – mornings and evenings can be cool, even in spring. Average temperatures range from about 52°F (11°C) in January to 82°F (28°C) in August, though summer heatwaves can push highs above 95°F (35°C). For current conditions, check IPMA (Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere).

• Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the most pleasant times to travel to Lisbon. Temperatures rise from around 63°F (17°C) in March to 73°F (23°C) by May, and rain becomes less frequent. Jacaranda trees bloom in late spring, adding bursts of purple across the city. Crowds are lighter than in summer, and mid-range hotels cost about €90-€130 per night. It’s an ideal season for walking tours, tram rides, and exploring viewpoints without the intense summer heat.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is hot, sunny, and busy. Average highs sit around 82°F (28°C) in July and August, but heatwaves can push temperatures into the mid-90s. It’s peak season – hotel prices can reach €150-€220 a night, and popular sights like Belém Tower and Tram 28 see long queues. The beaches of Cascais and Costa da Caparica are popular escapes, though the Atlantic water stays cool. Expect a lively atmosphere, open-air concerts, and plenty of late-night dining.
• Autumn (September to November): Early autumn often feels like an extension of summer. September averages around 79°F (26°C), cooling to 64°F (18°C) by November. September and early October are excellent for sightseeing – warm days, cooler evenings, and fewer tourists. Hotel rates drop to €90-€140 per night, and you’ll still get plenty of sunshine for outdoor cafés and day trips to Sintra or Cascais. By late October, showers become more common, so pack a light jacket.
• Winter (December to February): Winter in Lisbon is mild compared to northern Europe. Average highs are around 59°F (15°C), with lows rarely below 46°F (8°C). Rain is most frequent in December and January, but sunny breaks are common. With mid-range hotels from €70-€100 a night and lower airfares, it’s a budget-friendly time to visit. Indoor attractions – like museums, monasteries, and cozy fado bars – make up for the cooler weather. And with far fewer crowds, you can enjoy Lisbon’s big sights without the summer rush.

Where to eat in Lisbon

Lisbon is a paradise for food lovers – a blend of traditional tascas, fresh Atlantic seafood, and innovative chefs reinventing Portuguese flavors. Here’s what to eat and where to eat in Lisbon to make the most of the city’s dining scene.

Must-try dishes

• Bacalhau à Brás: Shredded salt cod mixed with onions, matchstick potatoes, and scrambled eggs, finished with parsley and black olives. Comforting, flavorful, and found on menus across the city – try it at a traditional tasca in Alfama.
• Grilled sardines: A Lisbon staple, especially in June during the Santo António festival. Served simply with bread, potatoes, and salad, they’re smoky, oily, and best eaten outdoors with a cold beer.
• Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato: Clams cooked in olive oil, garlic, white wine, and coriander – simple but bursting with flavor. Perfect for seafood lovers and best enjoyed as a starter with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Bifana: A humble pork sandwich marinated in garlic and spices, served hot in a crusty roll. Cheap, quick, and found everywhere from snack bars to markets.
• Pastel de nata: Lisbon’s iconic custard tart – flaky pastry, creamy center, caramelized top. Try the original at Pastéis de Belém or opt for equally delicious versions at Manteigaria.

Top restaurants

• Cervejaria Ramiro: A legendary Lisbon seafood house known for its fresh shellfish – tiger prawns, crab, clams – served simply and perfectly cooked. Expect queues, but it’s worth the wait.
• Taberna da Rua das Flores: Small, cozy, and creative – this spot in Chiado serves inventive small plates using Portuguese ingredients. No reservations, so arrive early or be prepared to wait.
• Solar dos Presuntos: Classic Lisbon dining with a focus on seafood and traditional dishes. Known for its generous portions and old-school service, great for a long, leisurely meal.
• Time Out Market: Perfect if you want variety in one place. Lisbon’s best chefs and food stalls under one roof – from traditional petiscos to sushi, burgers, and modern desserts.
• Fauna & Flora: Bright, leafy, and perfect for brunch – smoothie bowls, pancakes, fresh salads, and excellent coffee. A good choice for vegetarians or anyone wanting a lighter meal in stylish surroundings.

Trips and tours to Lisbon

Here are some unique experiences we can arrange for your tailor-made Lisbon trip – all private, flexible, and designed by our local travel experts.

• Historic Lisbon walking tour: Explore Alfama, Baixa, and Chiado with a private guide. Learn the stories behind the city’s tiled facades, discover hidden viewpoints, and visit landmarks like the Sé Cathedral and Praça do Comércio. Perfect for first-time visitors.
• Sintra day trip: Just a short train or car ride away, Sintra is packed with fairytale palaces, lush gardens, and hilltop castles. Visit Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira, then enjoy a leisurely lunch in the old town.
• Lisbon food and wine experience: Taste your way through the city with a local foodie. Sample petiscos (Portuguese tapas), fresh seafood, and local wines while visiting markets, family-run tascas, and contemporary eateries. Great for food lovers.
• Family-friendly Lisbon tour: A fun, interactive itinerary for kids and adults. Ride on Tram 28, visit the Oceanarium, and enjoy interactive storytelling stops in historic districts. Engaging for both children and adults.
• Lisbon and Porto twin-city tour: See Portugal’s two most famous cities in one trip – you don’t need to choose Porto or Lisbon when you can enjoy both. Start with Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, fado music, and sweeping river views, then head north for port wine cellars, Douro River cruises, and Porto’s colorful Ribeira district. It’s the best of both worlds, linked by a scenic train or private transfer.