Explore the museums
If you’re looking for a bit of culture on your Lisbon city break, there are plenty of options.
Tune in to traditional Portuguese music by visiting the Fado Museum in Alfama.
Learn about the development of Portuguese guitar and the ‘Fado Houses’ as well as major singers and composers of the scene.
The Berardo Museum houses one of the best modern art collections in the world including works by Warhol, Picasso and Dali.
Another cultural hub is the Gulbenkian Museum which holds a wonderful collection of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Islamic, Asian, and European art.
Art and design lovers should not miss the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) with exhibitions inside a converted power station overlooking the Tagus River.
Eat & drink
When you need a pit stop, you’ll find a café on every corner in Lisbon. From pavement coffee shops and hilltop kiosks to Art Deco cafes and traditional pastelarias. You can't visit Lisbon without trying the traditional pastry, pasteis de nata (custard tarts). The original bakery in Belém has been making them since the 1830s.
Lisbon's markets are a great way to get a taste for the city. Explore the bustling Mercado de Campo de Ourique for local produce and fresh seafood delights. A visit to the Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira) is an opportunity to sample dishes from many of the city's great chefs and restaurateurs.
Lisbon's best viewpoints
Lisbon is a hilly place. Whichever part of town you stay in during your city break you’re likely to encounter steep inclines leading to impressive viewpoints. They’ve even built an elevator to navigate the city’s changing levels. The Elevador de Santa Justa is Lisbon’s historic vertical street lift. Built in the 19th century, it connects the lower streets of Baixa with the higher Carmo Square. And, there’s no expensive tourist fee to take the ride as the elevator is part of the metro system, so you use your city transportation ticket.
Hop on one of Lisbon’s iconic trams to the Moorish São Jorge Castle, which sits in a commanding position at the top of a hill. From the walls you’ll look out across the Tagus River and see the Christ the King statue in the distance.
Places near to Lisbon
A day trip to Sintra is a great option on a city break to Lisbon. Its exotic gardens, thick forests and the 19th century Pena Palace all add to Sintra’s fairy-tale charm. Head up the hill to see the palace bathed in afternoon light. You’ll also be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding lush forests and gardens.
The port city of Setúbal is a short drive or train ride from Lisbon and offers a coastal escape just outside the capital. Taste the local seafood, enjoy dramatic views from pristine beaches and spot resident dolphins in the Sado Estuary.
Local tips
Beautiful views: For a postcard-perfect memory from your Lisbon city break, head to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia (Alfama).
For coffee: An unmissable stop on your Lisbon city break is Pois Café, with its soft sofas, mellow music and some quirky knick-knacks to liven up a beautiful high-ceilinged room. Serving light snacks, this cafe is a favourite of Lisbon's late risers.
Take a tram: More than just a peaceful ride, boarding the elétrico no. 28 at the Largo da Graça to the Bairro Alto offers a journey back in time. A peak into Lisbon life. An unforgettable moment during your stay in Lisbon.
A must-visit shop: For budding wine buffs, Viniportugal offers a unique tasting concept. Added bonus - the wines are sold at producer price.
