Map of the Best Things to Do in Lisbon

How Many Days in Lisbon?

Explore Baixa & Chiado

Visit Praça do Comércio

Praça do Comércio is a large waterfront square in the heart of Lisbon. You’ll find 
cafés, statues and the iconic Lisboa sign, making it a perfect place to enjoy a coffee and snap the classic tourist photo with the sign. 

When I visited during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the square was set up as a fan zone with giant screens to watch the games. Seeing the crowds gather together created such a vibrant atmosphere. The city regularly uses the square for city events and celebrations throughout the year, such as New Year’s Eve Festivities.

Stroll along Rua Augusta

Rua Augusta is one of Lisbon’s busiest pedestrian streets, stretching from Rossio Square to Praça do Comércio. It’s lined with retail stores, restaurants and cafés, many of which have dining areas set up in the middle of the street. It’s the perfect place to wander, grab a bite to eat and soak up the atmosphere of the city. 

At the southern end of the street, you’ll see the impressive Arco da Rua Augusta (Rua Augusta Arch). The stone arch was built to commemorate the city’s rebuilding after the devastating 1755 earthquake. 

You can also visit the terrace on top of the arch for views over Praça do Comércio, the Tagus River and downtown Lisbon. If you’d like to go to the top, you can book your ticket to the Rua Augusta Arch in advance.

Visit the Santa Justa Terrace Viewpoint

The Elevador de Santa Justa (Santa Justa Lift) is a historic landmark in the centre of Lisbon. It’s known for its prominent neo-gothic iron design and the elevator ride to the viewing platform with panoramic views over the city and Castelo de São Jorge. 

The lift is currently closed for maintenance and a safety review. Fortunately, there’s an alternate viewpoint, just a short walk away that, in my opinion, offers views that are just as good, and it’s completely free. 

To reach the viewpoint, go to the Museu Arqueológico do Carmo and take the small passageway to the right (Tv. Dom Pedro de Menezes). At the rear of the museum, you’ll find a small terrace and a rooftop at Casa Portuguesa Pastel De Bacalhau.

Browse Livraria Bertrand, the World’s Oldest Bookshop

Livraria Bertrand holds the title of the world’s oldest continuously operating bookshop, having opened its doors in 1732. 

Step inside and browse the shelves, in addition to Portuguese titles, you’ll also find a selection of books in English.

If you purchase a book here, you’ll receive a stamp inside the cover certifying that it was bought at the oldest operating bookshop in the world. You can choose to receive the stamp in either Portuguese or English.

I think it makes a unique and practical souvenir to remember your trip to Lisbon.

Eat Your Way Around Time Out Market

Time Out Market is a large food hall with a wide range of local and international cuisines to choose from. I love visiting food markets like this when travelling with others because it means everyone can choose exactly what they feel like eating, while still dining together in one place.

I’d recommend doing a lap of the market first to narrow down your options before deciding where to order from.  It gets incredibly busy, so if you’re travelling with others, have someone secure a table and take turns to order. 

I ordered a selection of bao buns from Asian Lab, and they were delicious. 

Whether you’re wanting to try traditional Portuguese food, or something more familiar, Time Out Market is a great stop for lunch or dinner with plenty of variety.

Discover Alfama & Graça

Wander the Streets of Alfama

After exploring Baixa and Chiado, it’s definitely worth spending time wandering the streets of Alfama. As Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood, you’ll quickly notice the architecture feels different from the rest of the city, as around 85% of Alfama survived the devastating 1755 earthquake.

My first visit to Alfama was on a walking tour, where our guide described wandering its streets as being like a “life museum.” As you explore the steep, narrow laneways, you’ll catch glimpses of everyday local life, even smell what they are cooking up for lunch. 

My favourite discovery was Soul of Alfama, a permanent street exhibition featuring photographs of local residents printed onto limestone, each accompanied by a plaque sharing their story.

I was also lucky to visit in June during the Festas dos Santos Populares (Popular Saints’ Festivals). Seeing Alfama decorated for the street parties, with colourful garlands, food stalls and charcoal grills for cooking sardines, which all made the neighbourhood feel even more vibrant.

Explore Castelo de São Jorge

Castelo de São Jorge (São Jorge Castle) sits high on a hilltop in Alfama and is one of the most prominent structures in Lisbon. Featuring Moorish and Gothic architecture, the castle’s medieval walls and towers date back to the 11th century. Due to its hilltop position, it also offers panoramic views over Lisbon. 

I actually didn’t end up visiting the castle on my recent trip, as I had limited time in Lisbon and I thought the entry ticket price was a bit steep at €17 (As at August 2026). If you’re aged up to 25, you can purchase discounted tickets.

Entrance to the castle is included in the Lisbon Card, which is a great option if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions during your trip. Next time I return, I’m planning to buy the Lisbon Card and use it to visit the castle. 

I did get the chance to admire the castle from a distance, and if you’re after one of the best photo opportunities, I’d recommend heading to Miradouro da Graça.

Step Inside The Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon

The Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon is dedicated to Saint Anthony, the patron saint of lost things. 

I was interested to learn that the Church is built on the site of the saint’s former family home. You can actually visit the crypt inside the church, which is considered to be the actual birthplace of Saint Anthony.

After visiting the church, don’t miss the colourful flower wall which is set up just outside. It’s perfect for a photo before continuing to explore Alfama.

Visit Lisbon Cathedral

Lisbon Cathedral is the oldest church in the city. Originally built in the 12th century, it features a blend of architectural styles after being rebuilt and repaired following damage from multiple earthquakes. 

After having spent some time exploring the Church of Saint Anthony, and being short on time, I decided to just admire the cathedral from the outside. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s well worth visiting to appreciate its impressive facade while you’re exploring Alfama. 

If you’d like to visit the interior, tickets can be purchased at the entrance or you can buy your ticket in advance here

Admire the Views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Lisbon has many public viewpoints, known as miradouros, which offer incredible views over the city. One of my favourites was Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Although it was one of the more crowded viewpoints, its beautiful tiled terrace, vine-covered pergolas and colourful bougainvillea made it well worth visiting. 

It’s a perfect place to capture photos of both the gardens and the panoramic views over Lisbon. 

If Santa Luzia is too crowded, you’ll find Miradouro da Portas do Sol just a few minutes walk away, offering another amazing view over the city.

Browse Feira da Ladra

If you’re visiting Lisbon on a Tuesday or Saturday, add Feira da Ladra to your itinerary. It’s a popular local flea market that takes place at Campo de Santa Clara.

Even if you’re travelling light with only an underseat bag and no room for shopping like I was, it’s still worth browsing the stalls of antiques, vintage clothing and handmade crafts to see what you might find. 

If you’re planning to make a purchase, I’d recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and bringing some cash, as not every vendor accepts cards. 

While you’re in the area, keep an eye out for the Mural de Azulejos, a colourful tiled artwork which you’ll find tucked behind the market stalls.

Take in the Views from Miradouro da Graca

Another viewpoint worth visiting is Miradouro da Graca, which offers panoramic views over the city, the Tagus River and Castelo de São Jorge.

Right beside the viewpoint is the Church of Our Lady of Grace, a historic church and convent. I snapped some great photos here, particularly of the beautiful blue tiled artwork.

There’s also a small café with outdoor seating, so it’s a lovely place to stop for a drink and enjoy the view.

Spend Half a Day in Belém

Admire Jeronimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)

Jeronimos Monastery is one of Lisbon’s most visited attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s considered one of the best examples of Manueline architecture in Portugal. 

The monastery is open Tuesday to Sunday, and to visit the cloisters, you’ll need to book a timed entry ticket in advance. Queues are famously long, so I’d recommend choosing an early morning timeslot. If you’d rather skip the queues altogether, you can book a guided tour that skips the line.

I visited on a Monday, so I didn’t get the chance to go inside. That meant that without the usual queue stretching across the entrance, I was able to capture some beautiful photos of the exterior.

It’s free to visit the Church of Santa Maria de Belém, so although I missed the cloisters, I still got to admire the spectacular architecture inside the church and because I visited on a Monday, it was much quieter than I’d expected.

Try the Original Pastéis de Belém

Belém is the birthplace of the original pastel de nata, or as we call them back home, a Portuguese tart. 

A pastel de nata is a flaky pastry shell filled with creamy egg custard, best eaten warm fresh from the oven. They originated from the monks and nuns at Jerónimos monastery, who used egg whites to starch and waterproof their clothes. They then used the leftover egg yolks to create these famous custard tarts. 

Pastéis de Belém is the original bakery that still uses the monastery’s secret recipe, making it one of the most popular places to try a pastel de nata in Lisbon.

Walk along the Tagus River

Enjoy a walk along the Tagus River promenade. I’d recommend walking along the stretch between Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. One thing to be aware of is that the waterfront path is interrupted by the marina, so you will need to make a short detour before continuing along the river. 

When you start your walk near Belém Tower, you’ll see the Lisboa Sign, making it the perfect opportunity to snap that classic tourist photo. 

One of my favourite parts of this walk was stopping by a stall selling piña coladas and happily strolling along the river with a cocktail in hand.

Admire the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge

Admire the panoramic views of the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge stretching across the Tagus River. 

You’ll quickly notice the bridge is strikingly similar to the famous Golden Gate Bridge, both of the bridges were built by the same construction company, which explains the similarities. 

It makes the perfect backdrop for photos, particularly while you’re walking along the riverfront promenade between Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries.

Visit the Monument to the Discoveries

The Monument to the Discoveries is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Belém. It commemorates Portugal’s Age of Discoveries and the explorers who helped shape the country’s maritime history. 

Designed to resemble the bow of a ship, the monument is carved with statues of prominent explorers and historical figures. I’d recommend walking around the monument to admire the detail from up close.

I actually didn’t realise when I visited, but it’s possible to go inside the monument to a viewing platform for views over the river, Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge and the surrounding waterfront.

See the Iconic Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)

Belém Tower is one of the most iconic attractions in Lisbon. Built in the 16th century, it originally served as part of the city’s defence system, protecting the entrance to Lisbon’s harbour. 

The tower is beautifully designed in the Manueline style, which blends Gothic, Renaissance and Moorish influences. 

Similar to other attractions in Belém, the tower is open Tuesday to Sunday. I visited on a Monday, so I didn’t have the chance to go inside. Although I probably wouldn’t have purchased a ticket if it was open, as I personally thought the €15 entrance fee is a bit expensive. 

If you have the Lisbon Card, entry to Belém Tower is included, although you’ll still need to reserve an entry timeslot online in advance. 

Even without going inside, Belém Tower was well worth visiting to admire its beautiful architecture.

Unique Experiences in Lisbon

Ride Lisbon’s Iconic Tram 28

One of the most iconic things to do in Lisbon is riding Tram 28 through neighbourhoods including Graça, Alfama, Baixa and Chiado. Along the way, you’ll pass by top attractions including Lisbon Cathedral, Rua Augusta and a number of miradouros. 

It’s an easy way to see the city without tackling all of Lisbon’s steep hills on foot. A single ticket costs €3.30, or even cheaper if you buy a Navegante Card. If you’ve purchased a Lisbon Card, your fare is included. 

I would recommend riding Tram 28 early in the morning or later in the evening if you can. It gets extremely busy during the day with crowded trams and long queues. I rode it just before 8 pm and while I didn’t get a seat it wasn’t packed.

Discover LX Factory

LX Factory is a creative hub set up in a former textiles factory. It’s home to a collection of boutique stores, art galleries, cafés, bars and restaurants. It’s a quirky and unique destination filled with art and murals that’s perfect for wandering around and exploring. 

Don’t miss Ler Devagar, a very photogenic two-storey bookshop with towering shelves stacked with books. It’s considered to be one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. 

Don’t leave your visit too late in the evening like I did, as some of the shops had closed for the day. Thankfully there was still plenty to explore, but I’d recommend visiting earlier in the day if you want to browse the boutiques and galleries. 

LX Factory is around 4 km from the city centre, easy to reach by tram or bus and is well worth adding to your Lisbon Itinerary.

Take a Cruise on the Tagus River

This is one activity I unfortunately didn’t have time for during my trip, but if I had one extra night in Lisbon, it’s the experience I would have booked. 

A Tagus River cruise offers the opportunity to see the city from a different perspective, sailing past landmarks including Belém Tower and under the Ponte 25 de Abril. 

If I was booking a river cruise, I’d choose this Tagus River Sunset Cruise with Drinks. It includes two complimentary drinks and a group limited to a maximum of 10 participants, making it a more enjoyable sightseeing experience than the larger boats.

See Lisbon by Tuk Tuk

You’ll see tuk tuks all over Lisbon, as they’re a really popular sightseeing tour option. Due to the steep hills they are a practical way to see the city without doing too much walking. They’re also a great private tour alternative to the big hop-on hop-off buses. 

If you’d rather avoid negotiating prices with drivers on the street, I’d recommend booking a Private Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour in advance through a reputable platform like Get Your Guide. That way you’ll know exactly what you’re paying and you can read reviews before you book. 

Learn to Make Pastéis de Nata

If making your own pastéis de nata is on your Lisbon bucket list, don’t make the same mistake I did and leave booking this experience until the last minute. It’s a popular experience and can book out in advance, especially during peak season.

This is your chance to learn how to make authentic pastéis de nata in a traditional bakery with a pastry chef. 

I didn’t get to take the class myself but I visited the Nat’elier bakery and saw a group making them. It looked like so much fun watching everyone wearing hair nets and aprons while carefully pouring custard into the pastry shells. I definitely felt like I was missing out. I had to settle for buying a pastel de nata instead of making it. 

Try a Traditional Bifana

Bifana is a traditional Portuguese pork sandwich made with tender pork that’s been marinated, simmered in a flavourful sauce and served in a fresh white roll. You can enjoy it plain or add cheese, mustard or hot sauce.  

I tried one from Bifanas do Afonso, who claim to have the best bifana in Lisbon. I enjoyed it so much that I went back for another the following day, so they certainly lived up to their claim. You can either dine in or order from the takeaway window. It’s a little cheaper to take it away, but be sure to bring cash. 

If you’re looking for a quick, inexpensive lunch while exploring the city, a bifana is hard to beat.

Best Day Trips from Lisbon

Take a Day Trip to Sintra

This one isn’t technically in Lisbon, but I think a day trip to Sintra should be on every Portugal itinerary. It’s only 30–40 minutes from Lisbon by train from Rossio Station, so there’s no need to hire a car. If you’d rather not organise everything yourself, there are plenty of guided tours. I joined this 10-Hour Palaces Tour in Cascais and Sintra, and it was one of the highlights of my trip.

Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its romantic architecture, historic estates, grand palaces and gardens. Pena Palace is certainly a highlight, it looks like a castle straight out of a fairytale. 

If you’re undecided about whether to add Sintra to your itinerary, read my guide: Is Sintra Worth Visiting? If you’re ready to plan your trip, I’ve also shared everything you need to know in my Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon guide.

How to Get Around Lisbon

Walking

I think the best way to get around Lisbon is on foot, although you should be prepared for the city’s steep hills. Many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other, and you can easily combine walking with public transport like trams to reduce the amount of hills you need to tackle.

Public Transport: Metro, Trams & Buses

Lisbon has plenty of easily accessible public transport options including the metro, trams and buses. 

You can easily check transport routes and times using Google Maps, plus incorporate this with walking directions.

For a single journey, you can simply tap your contactless bank card at the metro barrier or as you board a tram or bus. I hadn’t planned on using public transport as much as I did during my trip, so I was just using my bank card. However, it is cheaper if you purchase a reloadable Navegante card. I ended up regretting not getting one on the first day of my trip.

If you have a Lisbon Card, unlimited access to public transport is already included for the duration of your pass.

Uber and Taxis

If you’re short on time, Uber and taxis are a quick and convenient alternative to walking or taking public transport in Lisbon. I ended up using Uber late at night when the public transport options were running less frequently.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

For first time visitors, I’d recommend staying in Baixa or Chiado. They’re centrally located, well connected by public transport and within easy walking distance of many attractions on this list of things to do in Lisbon.

Hostel

Living Lounge Hostel 
I stayed at Living Lounge Hostel for my trip and would happily recommend it to other travellers.
It’s perfectly located in Baixa, walking distance to many of Lisbon’s major attractions and right by the Baixa–Chiado metro station. 

The dorm rooms were spacious and comfortable with air-conditioning, breakfast included and plenty of cosy communal spaces to relax in. 

The only downside was that there isn’t a lift. After a full day walking Lisbon’s steep hills, climbing four flights of stairs to reach my dorm room definitely felt like an extra workout.

Budget

Be Poet Baixa Hotel
Be Poet Baixa Hotel is located in the absolute heart of Lisbon on Rua Augusta. It’s right around the corner from one of the best cheap eats in Lisbon, Bifanas do Afonso as well as plenty of other dining options. Reviews consistently praise the hotel for its comfortable convenient location.

Mid-Range

Hotel da Baixa 
Hotel da Baixa is a 4-star hotel located within an easy walking distance of many of the attractions featured in this guide. It’s also well connected by public transport, with Rossio Station just a five minute walk away.

Luxury

Bairro Alto Hotel 
Perfectly located where the Bairro Alto and Chiado neighbourhoods intersect, Bairro Alto Hotel is conveniently located to explore Lisbon on foot or by jumping on one of the iconic trams. 

This 5-star hotel has been awarded a MICHELIN key and is renowned for its exceptional rooms, service and overall guest experience. It offers everything you’d expect from a luxury stay, with a spa, rooftop terrace, restaurant and bar.

Frequently Asked Questions: Things to Do in Lisbon

Is Lisbon walkable?

Despite being a city that’s famously known for having seven hills, Lisbon is surprisingly walkable. Many of the city’s attractions are located within walking distance of one another and when your legs need a break, there’s a well connected public transport system to help you get around.

Is Lisbon worth visiting?

Lisbon is absolutely worth visiting. I loved wandering around and exploring the historic neighbourhoods, visiting all the different viewpoints and eating my way around the city. There genuinely is something for everyone, from history and museums, boutique shopping and nightlife to cruising the river.

How many days do you need in Lisbon?

I’d recommend spending at least 3 days in Lisbon. That will allow enough time to visit the main attractions, explore neighbourhoods like Alfama and Belém plus have enough time to enjoy the city’s food and viewpoints. I’d also allow time in your itinerary for a day trip to Sintra.

What’s the best time to visit Lisbon?

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–October) are considered the best times to visit Lisbon for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. I visited during June which has peak summer crowds but it’s also when the city comes alive with the Festas dos Santos Populares (Popular Saints’ Festivals).

Is the Lisbon Card worth it?

If you’re planning to visit attractions like Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and São Jorge Castle, the Lisbon Card will save you money. It also includes free public transport for the duration of the pass, so it will be easy for you to make your way between attractions.