Lisbon is a city that will capture your heart from the moment you arrive. With its breathtaking views, vibrant tiled buildings, and thriving art and fashion scene, Portugal’s capital is a destination that charms all types of travelers.
No matter what brings you here, one thing is certain – you’ll never tire of exploring this beautiful city. Our Lisbon Travel Guide will help you plan your dream trip to this captivating destination in no time.
Facts: Lisbon Travel Guide
* Lisbon is the westernmost capital in Europe!
* The city is known as the City of Seven Hills, thanks to the seven hills surrounding its main center.
* If the 25 de Abril Bridge looks familiar, it’s because it shares a design with San Francisco’s Bay Bridge (both were constructed by the same company) and is painted similarly to the Golden Gate Bridge.
* Lisbon is the second oldest city in Europe, after Athens, with a history that goes back to 1200 BC.
* Lisbon's iconic yellow trams were once called Americanos, as they were inspired by the horse-drawn carriages from New York and New Orleans.
* In 1755, a devastating earthquake destroyed over 85% of Lisbon’s buildings and took the lives of one-third of its population.
Lisbon Geography
Lisbon is located along the banks of the Tagus River, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve. In addition to its beautiful waterfront, the city is built on a series of hills, offering excellent views but making walking more challenging – so be sure to bring comfortable shoes!
Although Lisbon covers roughly 39 square miles or 101 square kilometers, most of the top attractions are in the historic center. Here, you’ll find the picturesque neighborhoods of Baixa, Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado, which we’ll explore further in this guide.
Lisbon Travel Guide Fast FAQs:
* Currency: The Euro! Like most of the European Union, Lisbon and the rest of Portugal use the Euro.
* Do I need cash? Lisbon is a large, international city where credit cards are widely accepted. Still, it’s always a good idea to carry a small amount of cash, especially for smaller businesses that may have minimum card payment requirements. Additionally, if you’re using public transport and haven’t bought a ticket in advance, you’ll need cash to pay the driver.
* Can I use my electronics in Lisbon? Yes, you can, but if you’re coming from the US, you’ll need an adapter. Portugal uses type C or type F outlets, different from those used in the US.
The voltage is also higher in Europe (220-240 volts), compared to the US (110-120 volts). Small electronics like phones and laptops will work fine, but larger items, such as hair styling tools, may not. It’s best to leave those at home.
* Is a visa required to visit Lisbon? US citizens don’t need a visa to visit Lisbon. You can enter Portugal and other Schengen Area countries without one for up to 90 days. However, starting in 2025, the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) program will require citizens from visa-exempt countries (like the US) to apply for pre-authorization before entering the Schengen Area.
Now you're ready to experience all that Lisbon has to offer!
What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit Lisbon?
Lisbon’s Mediterranean climate makes it a fantastic destination year-round. That said, we prefer visiting during the shoulder seasons of March and September to October when it’s typically less crowded and more affordable (though Lisbon stays busy all year).
Summers in Lisbon are sunny and dry, with temperatures reaching the mid-80s Fahrenheit. It’s also peak vacation season, which means higher prices for flights and accommodations. Winters are mild, rarely dipping below 50 degrees, allowing for outdoor activities, though we prefer warmer, sunnier weather to fully enjoy what the city has to offer.
Spring is a great time to visit, with pleasant temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s, and before the summer rush begins. Fall is also quieter, with daytime temperatures in the mid to upper 70s, but be mindful that it’s Lisbon’s rainy season, with November being the wettest month.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Lisbon?
We recommend staying in Lisbon for at least 4 days to explore the main attractions and experience the city’s different neighborhoods. If you have more time, a week allows you to enjoy the city at a slower pace and take day trips to nearby places like Sintra or Cascais.
Is Lisbon Expensive to Visit?
Compared to major cities in the US and Western Europe, Lisbon is still relatively affordable, though prices have risen as tourism has grown. While it's more expensive than it was a few years ago, Lisbon is still not considered an overly costly destination.
Getting to Lisbon
Most visitors flying into Lisbon will arrive at Lisbon International Airport (LIS), also known as Humberto Delgado Airport, located just 4 miles north of the city center. From the airport, you have several transport options to reach the city.
Metro from the Airport to Lisbon
The cheapest way to get into the city center is by metro. Although there is no direct train to most tourist areas like Alfama, Baixa, or Chiado, transferring is easy. From the airport, take the red line and switch to the green line at Almeda or the blue line at São Sebastião. The metro system is well-marked and easy to navigate.
A single ticket costs 1.80€ for unlimited rides within 60 minutes. You can use your contactless card, buy a day pass, or get a Navegante card, which lowers the fare to 1.61€.
Taxi from the Airport to Lisbon
Taxis from the airport to the city center typically cost between 15€ and 25€, depending on traffic. While more expensive, it’s quick and convenient, especially if you’re staying in an area not well-served by the metro. The ride usually takes 20-30 minutes.
Ride Share from the Airport to Lisbon
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are widely available and are usually cheaper than taxis. Plus, you’ll know the fare upfront, so there’s no risk of being overcharged.
Getting Around Lisbon
Despite its cobblestone streets and steep hills (hence the nickname "City of Seven Hills"), Lisbon is relatively easy to navigate, thanks to its metro system, buses, funiculars, and iconic yellow trams.
Tips for Getting Around Lisbon:
* Download CityMapper: This app provides real-time info on all transport options and routes.
* Day Pass: For 6.80€, you can travel unlimited on the metro, trams, buses, and funiculars for 24 hours. A Navegante card (0.50€ upfront) is a good option for multiple days of occasional travel.
* Contactless Metro Payment: You can pay for the metro with a contactless card, but cash or a Navegante card is needed for other transport.
* Ride Tram 28E: This tram takes you through the historic center, past many sights. If you don’t have a Navegante card, it costs 3€ cash to board.
* Wear Comfortable Shoes: Walking around Lisbon’s neighborhoods is the best way to experience the city, but the hills can be challenging.
Cross the Tagus by Ferry: To reach the other side of the river, take a quick Transtejo ferry from Cais do Sodré to Montijo, Seixal, or Cacilhas.
Where to Stay in Lisbon?
Lisbon is filled with unique neighborhoods, each offering its own charm. For first-time visitors, staying in central Lisbon is ideal, as it puts you close to many of the city’s main attractions. Here’s a guide to some of the best areas in the city center, as well as a few options for those looking for something off the beaten path.
*Baixa
Baixa is considered the historic heart and commercial center of Lisbon. Although it can feel a bit touristy, the wide, flat streets lined with beautiful buildings and the constant buzz of activity make it a great place to stay. Centrally located, it borders Alfama to the east and Bairro Alto to the west, giving you easy access to many of Lisbon’s must-see sights.
Here’s what you can do in Baixa:
* Enjoy stunning views from the Arco da Rua Augusta or relax at one of the many bars and restaurants on Praça do Comércio.
* Take a ride on the iconic St Justa Lift to the observation deck.
* Stroll along Rua Augusta for shopping and street performances.
*Alfama
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest and arguably most picturesque neighborhood. Nestled at the foot of St George’s Castle, it’s known for its narrow alleys, quaint squares, and historic charm. Despite its old-world feel, Alfama has become quite fashionable, drawing artists and creatives to its cobblestone streets.
While in Alfama, you can:
* Explore the ancient St George’s Castle.
* Experience Fado music at one of the many local bars and restaurants, where this traditional music style was born.
* Visit Lisbon Cathedral, the city’s oldest.
*Bairro Alto
For those seeking nightlife, Bairro Alto is the place to be. Located on a hill west of Baixa, it’s a largely residential neighborhood by day, but by night, it transforms into a lively district with Fado bars, sports pubs, nightclubs, and cocktail lounges. Though it’s quiet during daylight hours, it can get quite loud and festive once the sun goes down.
In addition to nightlife, you can:
* Visit the São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint for panoramic views of the city.
* Watch the sunset from the Santa Catarina viewpoint, which overlooks the port.
* Hop on the Bica Funicular, which connects Bairro Alto with Cais do Sodré.
*Chiado
Technically part of Baixa, Chiado offers a more cosmopolitan vibe. Known for its mix of historic and modern businesses, it’s packed with bookstores, retail shops, museums, and upscale cafes and restaurants, including Michelin-starred options. Though it attracts plenty of tourists, Chiado is also a favorite among locals, especially along Rua Garrett, which is Lisbon ’s premier shopping street.
Things to do in Chiado include:
* Shopping at spots like the Armazéns do Chiado mall, Café A Brasileira, or the world’s oldest bookstore, Bertrand.
* Visiting the Carmo Convent, where you can see the ruins of a Gothic church that collapsed in the 1755 earthquake.
Exploring the Chiado Museum, which features Portuguese art from various eras, including romantic, modern, and contemporary pieces.
*Cais do Sodré
Once known for its gritty and rough reputation, Cais do Sodré has transformed into one of Lisbon's liveliest neighborhoods, thanks to its vibrant nightlife filled with bars and clubs. During the day, however, it’s best enjoyed by heading to the waterfront or relaxing in one of the small parks. While there aren’t many major tourist attractions in the area, it’s still a great spot to explore for its markets, water views, and trendy bar scene.
Don’t miss:
* Grabbing a late lunch or early dinner at the Time Out Market (although it can be a bit pricey and touristy). You can also explore the Mercado da Ribeira to experience a slice of everyday Portuguese life.
* Bar hopping along the colorful Pink Street.
* Taking a leisurely stroll through Jardim Dom Luis, one of our favorite parks in the city.
*Príncipe Real
This is one of Lisbon’s more upscale and elegant neighborhoods. Situated on the west side of the historic center, just north of Chiado and Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real is known for its 19th-century mansions, picturesque gardens, and chic designer boutiques. Surprisingly, very few tourists make it up to this beautiful part of town, making it a peaceful retreat from the busier areas. It’s also a great place to experience local life.
Some must-see spots in Príncipe Real include:
* Exploring the Jardim Botânico de Lisboa, a sprawling botanical garden with ponds, walking trails, and kiosks.
* Admiring the impressive banyan trees in the Príncipe Real Garden.
* Taking the classic number 24 remodelado tram from Chiado to Príncipe Real.
*Avenue of Liberty
Just north of Bairro Alto lies the Avenue of Liberty, a high-end, tree-lined boulevard inspired by the Champs-Élysées. This ritzy area is home to boutique hotels, designer shops, and world-class museums. It’s also Lisbon’s embassy district, giving it an international flair. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon stroll, though we recommend taking the metro here to conserve your energy.
While exploring the Avenue of Liberty, don’t miss:
* Visiting Edward VII Park, the largest green space in central Lisbon.
* Stopping by Praça dos Restauradores and riding the nearby Gloria Funicular.
* Checking out one of the many museums, such as the Sociedade Nacional de Belas Artes, the Medeiros and Almeida Museum, or the Cinemateca Portuguesa Cinema Museum.
*Estrela
To the west of the historic city center, you’ll find the peaceful, residential neighborhood of Estrela. This area has a laid-back vibe, making it a favorite for families and visitors who want to explore a quieter side of Lisbon. With its proximity to the river, Estrela also offers lovely water views from various terraces and viewpoints.
Top things to do in Estrela include:
* Visiting the Basilica of Estrela to see the impressive nativity scene made of cork and terra cotta.
* Taking a stroll through Jardim da Estrela, an English-style garden with ponds and cozy cafes.
* Enjoying lunch at the Mercado de Campo de Ourique.
*Belém
A bit further from the city center (about a 20-minute drive or accessible by tram, train, or bus), Belém is a must-visit neighborhood. Famous for being the departure point of Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India in 1497, Belém has a deep sense of pride and history. It’s easy to spend an entire day wandering through its tree-lined squares, walking along the river, or visiting one of its many museums.
Some of our favorite activities in Belém include:
* Touring the Jerónimos Monastery and visiting Vasco da Gama’s tomb.
* Walking down to the river to see the 16th-century Belém Tower.
* Taking a sunset sailing cruise along the river.
Things to Do in Lisbon: Classic Experiences
Lisbon offers a wide variety of activities and attractions, but there are a few experiences that should be on every visitor’s list. No Lisbon Travel Guide would be complete without mentioning some of these must-do activities that will give you a true taste of the city.
*Ride the Tram
One of the quintessential Lisbon experiences is riding the iconic 28E tram. This popular tourist route takes you through the heart of the city's historic district, passing major landmarks such as the Lisbon Cathedral, the Time Out Market, and St. George Castle. However, as the most famous tram line, it can get crowded. To secure a seat, it’s best to board at one of the departure stations, either Martim Moniz or Campo de Ourique.
*Ride the Santa Justa Elevator
The 19th-century Santa Justa Elevator offers breathtaking views of Lisbon. Originally built to transport people up the city's steep hills, this beautifully designed structure is now a top tourist attraction due to its panoramic observation deck. A ride up costs 5.30€, though you can also walk up the hill and access the viewing platform for free.
*Explore St George Castle
St. George Castle is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, perched on the city’s highest hill. Built by the Moors in the 11th century, the castle was later home to Portuguese royalty. From the castle walls, you’ll get stunning views of Lisbon, and inside, you’ll discover centuries-old artifacts — plus a flock of resident peacocks!
*Take a Walking Tour. With us :)
To experience Lisbon like a local, join a walking tour. These tours are an excellent way to learn about the city’s history and culture while visiting hidden gems. Many companies offer free or pay-what-you-wish tours, with Discover Lisbon and Guru Walk being two of the most popular providers.
*Take a Tagus Boat Tour
On sunny days, a relaxing boat tour along the Tagus River is a must. While ferries shuttle passengers between Lisbon and Almada, these quick trips don’t offer much time to take in the views. Instead, opt for a longer boat tour. Departures are available from Belém, as well as from central Lisbon near Praça do Comércio.
Go on a Tuk Tuk Tour
For a fun and unique way to explore Lisbon, hop on a tuk-tuk! These three-wheeled vehicles can zip through the city's narrow streets and up its steep hills with ease. Guided tours typically last between 1 to 2 hours, though the half-day option is highly recommended for those who want to cover more ground and learn insightful details about Lisbon’s history and culture.
*Visit Jerónimos Monastery
Located in the Belém district, about 5 miles from Lisbon’s downtown, Jerónimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The monastery is the final resting place of Vasco da Gama, the explorer who pioneered the route from Europe to India. Its Manueline architecture, a distinctive Portuguese Gothic style, makes it one of the most impressive buildings in Lisbon.
*Take a Day Trip to Sintra
Sintra is the most popular day trip from Lisbon, and for good reason. Nestled in the Serra de Sintra hills, this UNESCO-listed town is home to a variety of palaces, villas, and castles. The top three attractions include the medieval Castle of the Moors, the fairy-tale Pena National Palace, and the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira. You can reach Sintra in just 40 minutes by train from Rossio Station, making it an easy and worthwhile trip.
*Grab a Drink from a Quiosque and Sit in the Park
One of the most relaxing experiences in Lisbon is enjoying a drink at a quiosque — a kiosk-style café often found in the city’s parks and squares. These charming spots serve coffee, beer, wine, and cocktails, and some also offer light snacks or meals. It’s a great way to unwind and soak in the local atmosphere.
*Where to Eat in Lisbon?
Portuguese cuisine is incredibly flavorful, and Lisbon offers a wide range of dining experiences, from affordable local spots to upscale restaurants. Here are a few places worth trying:
* Bonjardim: Known for its Piri Piri Chicken, Bonjardim offers large portions and a cozy atmosphere.
* O Frade: A family-run restaurant in Belém serving traditional Portuguese dishes from the Alentejo region. It’s a bit more expensive but perfect for a special meal.
* Time Out Market: This bustling food market by the waterfront has a huge variety of food stalls, bars, bakeries, and pastry shops.
* LX Factory: Located 2.5 miles from the city center, LX Factory is a cool industrial art hub with great restaurants and bars. Visit on Sundays for the LX Farmer’s Market.
* Cervejaria Ramiro: A seafood lover’s paradise, with fresh crabs, prawns, lobster, oysters, and more. Make a reservation to avoid the crowds.
* Solar dos Presuntos: This restaurant is perfect for special occasions and serves a variety of meat and seafood dishes family-style.
* Frade dos Mares: A contemporary seafood restaurant where octopus is the star of the menu, though they offer a wide variety of dishes, including vegetarian options and a kids’ menu.
* O Trevo: A local snack bar famous for its pork bifana sandwiches. It’s cheap, filling, and always has a line (cash only).
* Heim Café: Ideal for breakfast or brunch, Heim Café offers delicious waffles and French toast.
* Pastéis de Belém: A trip to Belém isn’t complete without tasting the world-famous pastel de nata from this bakery, which has been making them since 1837.
Heading Out of Lisbon
If you have extra days in Portugal, here are a few great destinations easily reachable from Lisbon:
*Sintra
This magical town is full of royal palaces and castles, just a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon. Highlights include the Castle of the Moors, Pena National Palace, and Quinta da Regaleira.
*Cascais
With sandy beaches, a charming old town, and gourmet restaurants, Cascais is a wonderful day-trip destination. It’s only a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon.
*Porto
For a longer getaway, take a 3-hour train ride to the beautiful city of Porto, known for its historic charm and famous port wine. Plan to stay overnight to fully explore.
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