Lisbon holidays

How to reach Lisbon

Reaching Lisbon from the UK is straightforward, with direct flights to Lisbon taking approximately 2.5 hours. Upon landing at Humberto Delgado Airport, also known as Lisbon Airport, the transfer to the city centre is quick and convenient, taking around 20 minutes by metro or 15 minutes by taxi. Prices for transport options vary, a metro ticket costs less than €2, while taxi fares to the city centre are typically between €10 and €15 with apps like Uber widely available.

Weather and best time to visit Lisbon

Deciding on the best time to visit Lisbon depends on your expectations. Here's a seasonal breakdown to help you plan:

• Spring (March to May) offers mild temperatures (averaging 11°C to 22°C), less rainfall, and the city in bloom. It's ideal for sightseeing with fewer tourists.

• Summer (June to August) brings warmer temperatures (averaging 16°C to 28°C) and the most sunshine, perfect for beach trips but also the peak tourist season.

• Autumn (September to November) sees temperatures cooling to 15°C to 26°C, with diminishing crowds and a good balance of weather for exploring.

• Winter (December to February) is cooler and wetter (averaging 8°C to 15°C), with fewer tourists, offering a more authentic experience of the city.

High season corresponds with the summer months, while low season is during winter.

Practical information for Lisbon holidays

• Spoken Languages: Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.

• Local Habits and Customs: A polite "Obrigado" (thank you) is always appreciated. Lisbonites dine late, with dinner typically starting around 8pm or later. Casual dress is common, but beachwear is for the beach only.

• Tips: Tipping is at your discretion. You might leave some change or round-up the bill by 5-10% in restaurants with good service. Always ask for a taxi receipt.

• Currency: The Euro (€) is the currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are commonly accepted.

• Getting Around: Lisbon's public transport network is extensive, including metro, trams (the famous Tram 28), buses, and trains. You can purchase a Navegante card for convenience when taking multiple journeys. Contactless payments are also accepted at metro stations.

• Electricity/Plugs: The standard voltage is 230 V with type F sockets. UK visitors will need an adapter.

Armed with this practical information, you're well-prepared for a delightful holiday in Lisbon, blending seamless travel planning with the excitement of discovering this vibrant city's charms.

Best things to do in Lisbon

Holidays to Lisbon may be fascinating and inspiring thanks to the city’s wonderful waterfront location, balmy climate and quirky range of attractions. Discover even more things to do in Lisbon with our guide, and make your trip unforgettable!

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: One of the highest viewpoints in Lisbon, this spot provides an incredible panorama of almost the entire city, from the River Tagus to the hills of Alfama. It’s probably the city’s most photographed viewpoint and a great place to be at sunset.

• St George’s Castle: Perched above Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods, the castle makes a tranquil haven from the busy city, with its pretty gardens, strutting peacocks and dazzling sweeping views of the Baixa district, the Tejo estuary, and beyond.

The best districts

• Alfama: Lisbon’s oldest district, Alfama is a maze of narrow streets, traditional Fado music venues, and historic sites like the Sé Cathedral. Getting lost in the winding streets and alleys of Alfama is half the fun.

• Bairro Alto (Upper Town): By day, Lisbon’s “upper town” feels peaceful and historic; by night, it’s the place for a lively night out, with its huge selection of vibrant bars, clubs and restaurants.

• Chiado: Chiado is a smart shopping district, famed for its cafés, especially along Rua Garrett. Of these, A Brasileira, Rua Garrett 120, is the most famous, once frequented by Lisbon’s literary set and now usually mobbed by tourists.

Historical monuments

• Belém Tower: Reached via a narrow walkway and jutting into the river, the impressive turreted Belém Tower has become an iconic symbol of Lisbon. You can climb a very steep spiral staircase up four levels to a top terrace where you get a blowy panorama of Belém.

• Jerónimos Monastery: This magnificent Manueline monastery with truly impressive cloisters – a UNESCO World Heritage site – houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama. A must-see during your Lisbon holidays!

• Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries): You can’t miss the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, an angular concrete monument in the shape of a caravel. It was built to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator, whose statue stands at the front of the monument, alongside other Portuguese legends.

Day trips in the area

• Sintra: Just a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairy-tale town filled with colourful palaces, romantic gardens and hilltop castles. The Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, Palace of Sintra and Capuchos Convent are the key highlights.

• Cascais: A popular seaside escape is Cascais, a 40-minute drive from Lisbon, which boasts three beaches and a campsite. Cascais has a particular appeal to surfers due to its proximity to Guincho beach, which has hosted the World Surfing Championships.

• Setúbal: For a taste of Portuguese countryside, head 50km south of Lisbon to Setúbal, where you can explore fresh seafood markets and charming old streets. Setúbal’s historic centre is both lively and highly attractive, set round a series of squares and narrow alleys filled with decent shops and restaurants.

Activities for families in Lisbon

Lisbon is a fantastic destination for families, with plenty of activities that both kids and adults will love.

• Interactive museums: The Pavilhão do Conhecimento Ciência Viva (Knowledge Pavilion for Live Science) hosts excellent temporary exhibitions but the permanent interactive exhibits – such as creating a vortex in water, a film of detergent the size of a baby’s blanket or immobilising shadows – are particularly good.

• Aquariums: Resembling a set from a James Bond film, the Oceanário de Lisboa is one of Europe’s biggest aquariums. Its main feature is the enormous central tank, the size of four Olympic-sized swimming pools, which you can look into from different levels to get close-up views of the sharks and rays. A firm favourite with kids and parents alike.

• Parks and gardens: Families should visit the Jardim da Estrela, a lovely luxuriantly leafy place, with duck ponds, an appealing pond-side café, plenty of picnic spots and a well-equipped children’s playground.

• Theme parks: Is it a rainy day? If so, head straight to KidZania, an indoor mini-city, where children can pretend to be adults and explore various professions from doctors to pilots to chefs. A fascinating experience for kids in a highly realistic environment!

Free things to do in Lisbon

Lisbon offers plenty of free activities that showcase the city’s charm and culture.

• Free museums: Many of Lisbon’s museums, including the Archaeology Museum, the National Museum of Ancient Art and the Popular Art Museum, offer free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

• Free events: Lisbon’s calendar is filled with free events, including outdoor concerts in the summer, such as those held in Praça do Comércio. During festivals like Santos Populares be sure to attend street parties and parades which are totally free.

• Campo de Ourique Market: Set in a wonderful 1930s building, the Campo de Ourique Market sells fish, fruit and veg, but also shelters around 20 food stalls and bars serving pastries, sushi, petiscos and seafood. It’s free to wander through the stalls and soak in the local atmosphere.

The best beaches in Lisbon

Lisbon, with its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, offers access to some of Portugal's most stunning beaches. Whether you're looking for bustling public beaches, exclusive private spots, or beaches equipped with all the amenities, Lisbon's coastline has something for everyone.

• Public Beaches: Praia de Carcavelos is one of the most popular public beaches near Lisbon, known for its golden sands and excellent surf conditions. Another favourite is Praia do Tamariz in Estoril, easily accessible by train and perfect for families.

• Private Beaches with Charges: For a more exclusive beach experience, visit Troia Peninsula. Accessible by a short ferry ride from Setúbal, Troia offers pristine beaches, some of which are part of private resorts and charge an entry fee for non-guests.

• Beaches with Sunbeds and Facilities: Praia da Conceição and Praia da Duquesa in Cascais provide sunbeds, umbrellas, and various facilities, including bars and restaurants, making for a comfortable beach day. These beaches blend convenience with scenic beauty, ideal for those looking to relax in style.

Nearest beaches to Lisbon

Several beautiful beaches are located within a short distance from Lisbon, making them perfect for day trips or even half-day excursions:

• Praia de Carcavelos: Just a 20-minute train ride from Lisbon's Cais do Sodré station, offering wide sandy expanses and vibrant beach bars.

• Costa da Caparica: Stretching over 30km south of Lisbon, accessible by bus or car, this coastline offers a variety of beach experiences, from lively sections with cafes and music to quieter spots ideal for relaxation.

• Praia das Maçãs: Accessible via a scenic tram ride from Sintra, this beach is beloved for its picturesque setting and family-friendly atmosphere.

• Praia do Guincho: A bit further away, near Cascais, Guincho is famed for its windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

These beaches near Lisbon offer a mix of natural beauty, recreational activities, and convenient facilities, ensuring a memorable seaside experience for all visitors.

Local dishes in Lisbon

One of the greatest delights of Lisbon holidays is exploring its food scene, which blends fresh Atlantic flavours with rich Mediterranean influences.

Some typical dishes

• Bacalhau à Brás: The most typical Portuguese fish dish is bacalhau (dried, salted cod), which is virtually the national dish, with reputedly 365 different ways of preparing it. The best for first-timers to try is bacalhau à brás, fried with egg, onions and potatoes.

• Caldo Verde: This traditional soup, made with finely shredded kale leaves, onion and potatoes in broth, is warming and delicious. It usually comes with chouriço (Portuguese sausage) in it.

Tapas dishes

• Petiscos: Portugal’s answer to tapas, petiscos include dishes like garlic prawns, grilled chouriço (Portuguese sausage), pica-pau (small pieces of steak in a garlicky sauce), tremoços (pickled lupin seeds) or a small round of cheese. All of them are perfect for sharing.

• Bifana: It’s a very popular sandwich with thinly sliced grilled or fried pork, seasoned with garlic and spices. A simple yet really mouthwatering treat.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Grilled Sardines: A summer favourite, grilled sardines provide one of the country’s most appetising smells. Typically served with olive oil and salt, they capture the taste of Portugal’s coast.

• Polvo à Lagareiro: For octopus lovers, this Portuguese dish is unmissable! Octopus is roasted with garlic, potatoes and olive oil which makes it perfectly tender and very tasty.

Sweets and desserts

• Pastéis de Nata: These are classic Lisbon custard tarts which have a sweet creamy filling and are deliciously flaky. For an extra touch of flavour, enjoy them with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

• Queijadas de Sintra: Small, round pastries made with cheese, sugar and cinnamon, these treats are very popular in Lisbon and particularly loved in nearby Sintra.

Local drinks

• Ginjinha: Lisbon specialises in the cherry brandy Ginjinha, which is typically served as a shot at tiny hole-in-the-wall bars throughout the city.

• Vinho Verde: This light, slightly sparkling wine hails from northern Portugal and is wonderfully refreshing. Best when served chilled, it’s perfect for enjoying on a sunny Lisbon afternoon.

Local sports events in Lisbon

Lisbon's love for sports, particularly football, is palpable. To experience it like a local, catch a match at one of the city's iconic stadiums: Estádio da Luz, home to SL Benfica, or Estádio José Alvalade, where Sporting CP plays. The atmosphere on match days is electrifying, offering a true taste of local passion. For a more relaxed experience, join the locals at a neighbourhood bar to watch a game, where the fervour for football runs deep.

Sports facilities for travellers in Lisbon

Travellers looking to stay active won't be disappointed with Lisbon's array of sports facilities. The city is dotted with public swimming pools, such as the ones in the Campo Grande area, offering a refreshing break from the heat. For yoga, fitness classes, dancing, or tennis, facilities like Clube VII in the Parque Eduardo VII offer day passes and equipment rental. These venues provide excellent opportunities to keep up with your exercise routine or try something new.

Cycling in Lisbon

Exploring Lisbon by bike is a fantastic way to see the city from a new perspective. Bike rental services are readily available, with options ranging from traditional bicycles to electric bikes, perfect for navigating Lisbon's hills. Popular cycling routes include rides along the Tagus River, providing stunning views and a flat path suitable for all fitness levels, and the picturesque Belém district, where you can enjoy both culture and the seaside.

Hiking around Lisbon

While Lisbon itself is more urban, the surrounding areas offer beautiful hiking opportunities. The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, a short train ride away, boasts trails through lush forests and past historic palaces and castles, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.

Water sports in Lisbon

Lisbon's proximity to the coast means water sports are a popular pastime. Activities like surfing, kite surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding are readily available, with Carcavelos and Costa da Caparica being among the most popular spots. Several schools offer lessons for beginners and equipment rental for the more experienced.

Winter sports in Lisbon

While Lisbon itself doesn't offer winter sports, the Serra da Estrela mountain range, a few hours' drive away, provides opportunities for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months. It's a unique way to experience another side of Portugal's diverse landscape.

Golf courses in Lisbon

Lisbon is a golfer's paradise, with several world-class golf courses in and around the city. Courses like Penha Longa, Oitavos Dunes, and Quinta da Marinha offer beautiful settings, challenging layouts, and top-notch facilities, making Lisbon a premier golfing destination in Europe.

Seasonal events in Lisbon

Lisbon's calendar is brimming with seasonal events that offer visitors a glimpse into the city's rich cultural tapestry and vibrant traditions.

• New Year: Lisbon welcomes the new year with dazzling fireworks, especially along the Tagus River, where the night sky lights up with colour.

• Christmas Shopping & Markets: From late November, Lisbon transforms with festive lights and markets. Explore areas like Rossio and Praça do Comércio for unique gifts and seasonal treats.

• Easter: Witness the solemn processions and enjoy the traditional Easter delicacies that mark this important time in the city.

• Gay Events: Lisbon Pride, held in June, celebrates diversity with a parade, parties, and cultural events, showcasing the city's inclusive spirit.

• Carnival: February sees Lisbon burst into life with colourful parades, costumes, and music, especially in the districts of Torres Vedras and Loures, offering a local take on Carnival festivities.

Festivals in Lisbon

Lisbon hosts an array of festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and film to food and history.

• Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival: An international celebration of film and the arts in November.

• Festas de Lisboa: Throughout June, the city celebrates its patron saint, Santo António, with sardines, folk music, and street parties.

• Rock in Rio Lisboa: A biennial music festival that brings together big names in rock and pop.

• Lisbon Fashion Week: Showcasing the latest trends with shows and events spread across the city.

• Jazz in August: Held at the Gulbenkian Foundation, this festival fills the city with the sounds of contemporary jazz.

• NOS Alive: One of Europe's leading music festivals, featuring an impressive lineup of artists every July.

• ModaLisboa: Celebrating Portuguese fashion with shows, presentations, and events.

• IndieLisboa: An international independent film festival that highlights new filmmakers and innovative cinema.

These events and festivals offer visitors an opportunity to dive deep into Lisbon's cultural scene, providing memorable experiences and insights into the city's dynamic spirit.