Lisbon Travel Guide

Explore the best of Lisbon, Portugal with our ultimate guide. Discover the top attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is located on the western coast of Europe and is known for its hilly terrain, scenic views, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. The city is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern-day vibrancy that can attract any kind of traveler, be it a history buff, culture enthusiast, or nature lover.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we have covered everything you need to know before you plan your trip to Lisbon.

List of Places to Visit in Lisbon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lisbon is a city that is very proud of its rich culture and history. The city boasts a number of museums and historical places that showcase its fascinating past. Here are some that you should definitely include in your itinerary:

  • Jeronimos Monastery: A UNESCO world heritage site that dates back to the 16th century.
  • Belem Tower: A fortified tower and another UNESCO world heritage site from the 16th century.
  • National Museum of Ancient Art: This museum houses a wide range of art and artifacts from the pre-romanesque period to the 18th century.
  • Calouste Gulbenkian Museum: The museum houses an impressive collection of ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artifacts as well as paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from all over Europe.
  • National Palace of Queluz: A beautiful 18th-century palace that was once the residence of the Portuguese royal family.

Natural Attractions of Lisbon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lisbon is not only famous for its stunning architecture and rich history but also for its natural beauty. The city offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some of the most popular natural attractions that you should definitely visit:

  • Sintra: A picturesque town located just west of Lisbon that is famous for its ancient castles, palaces, and gardens.
  • Cascais: A charming beach town located just outside of Lisbon that offers stunning coastal views and plenty of outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and cycling.
  • Lisbon Oceanarium: One of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world that houses a diverse range of marine life.
  • Tropical Botanical Garden: A beautiful garden located in the heart of Lisbon that exhibits a wide variety of tropical plants and trees from all over the world.
  • Arrabida Natural Park: A beautiful natural park located on the outskirts of Lisbon that features beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs, and a variety of flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lisbon

Lisbon is a city that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails in and around the city that offer stunning views and a chance to explore its natural beauty. Here are some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in Lisbon:

  • Cabo da Roca: A scenic hiking trail that leads to the westernmost point of continental Europe.
  • Serra de Sintra: A beautiful mountain range located just west of Lisbon that offers plenty of hiking and biking trails.
  • Park of Nations: A beautiful park located in the eastern part of Lisbon that features a number of pedestrian and bike paths.
  • Lisbon Bike Tour: A guided bike tour that takes you to the top landmarks of Lisbon, including Belém Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and Eduardo VII Park.

Best Things to Do in Lisbon: Activities and Tours

Lisbon is a city that is full of exciting activities and tours. Here are some that you should not miss:

  • Fado Show: A must-see traditional Portuguese music and dance performance that tells a beautiful and emotional story.
  • Portuguese Wine Tasting: Portugal has a rich tradition of winemaking, and you can experience this firsthand by attending a wine tasting session.
  • Lisbon Food Tour: The food scene of Lisbon is diverse and delicious, and the best way to experience it is by going on a guided food tour.
  • Day Trip to Sintra: A short drive from Lisbon, Sintra is a beautiful town that is famous for its castles and palaces.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lisbon

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for your trip to Lisbon:

  • Day 1: Arrival - Explore the city, visit Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower.
  • Day 2: Take a day trip to Sintra.
  • Day 3: Explore the natural beauty of Lisbon, including Lisbon Oceanarium and Tropical Botanical Garden.
  • Day 4: Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and National Museum of Ancient Art.
  • Day 5: Go on a Lisbon bike tour and visit Eduardo VII Park.
  • Day 6: Take a food tour of Lisbon and explore the city’s culinary delights.
  • Day 7: Spend the day at Cascais, go on a surfing lesson or a guided hiking tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Lisbon

Lisbon is a food lover’s paradise, and its culinary scene is diverse and delicious. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages that you should not miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bacalhau: Salted cod that is a staple in Portuguese cuisine, cooked in a variety of ways.
  • Sardinhas assadas: Grilled sardines that are a traditional dish served during the Santos Populares festival in June.
  • Cozido: A hearty stew made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and beans.
  • Pasteis de Nata: A sweet and creamy egg custard tart that is Lisbon’s signature dessert.

Local Beverages

  • Port Wine: A sweet and fortified wine that is a signature drink of Portugal.
  • Ginja: A sweet and sour cherry liqueur that is commonly served as an after-dinner drink.
  • Sagres Beer: A delicious beer that is brewed in Portugal and is perfect for a hot summer day.

Where to Stay in Lisbon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lisbon offers a wide range of accommodation options for every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Lisbon:

  • Pousada de Lisboa: A luxury hotel located in the heart of Lisbon that offers beautiful views and world-class amenities.
  • Home Lisbon Hostel: A cozy and affordable hostel located in the historic center of Lisbon.
  • Lisbon Experience Apartments: Stylish and comfortable apartments located in the trendy Chiado neighborhood.

What to Buy in Lisbon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lisbon is a city that is famous for its handicrafts and souvenirs. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products that you should buy in Lisbon:

  • Portuguese Wine: Portugal is famous for its wines, and you can bring home some of the best bottles from Lisbon.
  • Azulejo Tiles: A traditional type of tile that is commonly used on the walls and floors of buildings in Portugal.
  • Cork Products: Cork is a sustainable and eco-friendly material that is commonly used to make a variety of products, including bags, belts, and wallets.
  • Hand-painted Pottery: Portugal has a rich tradition of pottery-making, and you can find beautifully hand-painted ceramics in Lisbon.

Local Culture and Customs of Lisbon

Lisbon is a city that is proud of its rich culture and history, and it is important to respect its customs and traditions. Here are some local customs and etiquettes that you should be aware of:

  • Greeting: The Portuguese often greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on each cheek.
  • Tipping: It is customary to leave a tip of 10% for good service in restaurants and cafes.
  • Dress Code: Casual wear is acceptable in most places, but smart casual attire is preferred in high-end restaurants and clubs.
  • Fado music: Lisbon is famous for its traditional Fado music, and it is considered impolite to talk or make noise during a performance.

Best Time to Visit Lisbon

The best time to visit Lisbon is from March to June or September to November when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. July and August are peak tourist seasons, and the city can get overcrowded and expensive during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lisbon

Do:

  • Do try traditional Portuguese dishes and local wines.
  • Do take a ride on the historic Tram 28.
  • Do explore the bohemian neighborhood of Bairro Alto.
  • Do visit the historic Alfama neighborhood, the oldest in Lisbon.

Don’t:

  • Don’t ignore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Don’t overtip in restaurants and cafes.
  • Don’t be loud or disruptive during a Fado music performance.
  • Don’t expect everyone to speak English, learn some Portuguese phrases for a smoother trip.

Safety and Health

Lisbon is generally a safe city, with low levels of crime compared to other European capitals. Standard precautions such as not leaving valuables visible in parked cars, at the beach, or on public transport apply, always be aware of your surroundings. The health care system is very convenient and easy to access. Pharmacies are common, and most drugs are available over the counter.

Getting to Lisbon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lisbon is easily accessible via air, train, bus, or car.

Airports Near Lisbon

  • Lisbon Portela Airport: located just a few kilometers from the city center, it’s the largest airport in Portugal and the main point of entry for international flights.

Bus Stations Near Lisbon

  • Lisbon Bus Station: located in the Sete Rios area, it connects Lisbon to the main cities of Portugal and some international destinations.

Other Options

  • Train: There are several train stations that connect Lisbon to other parts of Portugal and Spain.
  • Car: If you prefer driving, Lisbon is easily accessible by the A1 and A8 highways from the north and by the A2 highway from the south.

How to Get Around in Lisbon

Lisbon has a good public transport network including bus, metro, trams, and trains. A 7 Colinas/Viva Viagem card is a convenient way to pay for public transportation. Walking is the best way to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods, and you can take the famous Tram 28 to see all the main landmarks.

Where to Go Next from Lisbon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore Portugal, here are some nearby destinations that you should consider visiting:

  • Porto: A beautiful coastal city that is famous for its port wine and historic old town.
  • Funchal: A charming city located on the island of Madeira that is famous for its flowers, wine, and breathtaking views.
  • Algarve: Portugal’s southernmost region is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and delicious seafood.

Conclusion

Lisbon is one of Europe’s most beautiful and fascinating cities, with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a lively cultural scene. We hope this travel guide will help you plan your trip to Lisbon and make the most of your time in this wonderful city.