The top things to do in Lisbon

If you’re planning your first visit to Portugal and are curious about what to do in Lisbon, you’re in luck! This guide is here to help you discover Lisbon's lively neighbourhoods, fascinating culture, and must-see attractions. This vibrant capital truly has everything a dream destination should offer, from breathtaking architecture and deep history to mouthwatering food, unique shops, and lovely, warm weather.

Whether you're interested in charming day trips, enchanting districts, or thrilling evening activities, we’ve gathered some of the very best things to enjoy in Lisbon. You’ll experience all the iconic sights, plus some hidden gems to keep your adventure exciting, even if you’ve visited before!

• Stroll in the botanical gardens
• Wander around Alfama
• Visit the Jerónimos Monastery
• Get the views from St George’s Castle
• Take a tram or funicular
• Catch a sunset
• Pose in front of the Belém Tower
• Tantalise your tastebuds
• Spend an evening at a Fado club
• Climb the dome of the Panteão Nacional

• Pick up presents at a conserveira
• Shop at the Feira da Ladra
• Take a day trip to Sintra
• Explore the aquarium
• Be inspired by the tile museum
• Head for a leisurely lunch by the beach
• Go kitesurfing on Guincho Beach
• Experience Lisbon’s nightlife and rooftop bars
• Getting around: Navigating Lisbon with ease

Spend a tranquil afternoon at the botanical gardens in the chic Príncipe Real district. Especially in the summer, this is one of the best things to do in Lisbon to escape the midday sun. On shaded, winding paths through this lush oasis you’ll witness thousands of plants from around the world, from giant trees with sculptural trunks to bright water lilies and impressive cacti. Or you can simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the avian chorus, as many locals do. Just outside the gardens is Praça do Príncipe Real, a bustling avenue of luxurious shops and eateries.

The Jerónimos Monastery truly stands out as one of Portugal's most breathtaking destinations in Lisbon. Created by the talented Diogo de Boitaca, its grand ceilings, beautiful tiled frescoes, and delicately carved columns are sure to leave anyone in awe. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes three main sections: the Church of Santa Maria, the lovely cloisters, and the serene ornamental gardens. 

As one of Portugal's cherished landmarks, you can easily lose yourself admiring the stunning architecture or enjoying peaceful moments in the sunny gardens, embracing the calm around you. For a richer experience of the monastery's fascinating history and intricate architecture, visitors are warmly invited to join a guided tour.

Castelo de São Jorge is a beloved tourist destination celebrated for its captivating history. Here, you can wander through the charming interiors, stroll along the ramparts, and unwind in the peaceful castle gardens. Plus, it boasts a fantastic location in Alfama, offering breathtaking city views right at the top of the hill. 

Inside, the museum showcases fascinating artefacts from the castle’s diverse and intriguing past, and several towers await your climb for even more stunning vistas. For the most beautiful views and a more intimate experience, try to visit in the late afternoon!

Lisbon has several unusual means of transport, from its quaint yellow trams trundling on Line 28 to the graffitied funiculars tackling the city’s toughest hills. There are also several elevators to help visitors and residents make short work of the ups and downs, the most famous of which is the Elevador de Santa Justa – a peculiar metal structure rising in the narrow street that allows you to almost peer into the windows of neighbouring buildings.

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, you’ll notice a delightful crowd gathering at the city’s charming miradouros, or viewpoints, to enjoy the breathtaking hues of orange and pink spreading across the sky. These lovely viewpoints are sprinkled throughout the city in nearly every district, with some favourites like the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Miradouro dos Barros, and Miradouro de Santa Catarina capturing the hearts of many. 

Don't miss the Arco da Rua Augusta, an architectural gem that provides stunning panoramic views of Lisbon’s vibrant streets- a perfect place to soak in the sunset. In the lively Cais do Sodré area, folks come together along the picturesque waterfront on Avenida Ribeira das Naus to catch sight of the sun setting or to unwind in one of the trendy bars or delightful restaurants at the Alcântara marina.

Visiting the Belém Tower is an absolute delight you won't want to miss while exploring the Belém district! This majestic structure, built back in the 1500s, truly captivates with its stunning decorations, originally designed as a watchtower. It’s fascinating to think that Vasco da Gama set sail from this very place, with the tower proudly standing as a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discoveries. 

For a small fee, you can climb to the top of the tower to soak in a breathtaking view of the River Tagus from the balcony. Or, if you prefer a more relaxed approach, you can admire its charming silhouette from a distance, perfectly mirrored in the water. It’s also a wonderful spot to enjoy one of Lisbon’s spectacular sunsets!

Exploring Lisbon wouldn't be complete without treating yourself to a delightful food tour! From delicious local cod dishes that you can find in nearly every restaurant to the truly authentic and reasonably priced options in Alfama or Bairro Alto, there's so much to savour. And don't miss out on the pastel de nata - this national delicacy is best enjoyed at the legendary Pastéis de Belém bakery, known not just for its warm custard tarts but also its charmingly tiled interior and open kitchen. For an extra special experience, grab a shot of ginja, the sweet cherry liqueur served in a delectable chocolate shot glass.

And if you're eager to dive into Lisbon’s bustling food scene, make sure to visit Time Out Market, where a fantastic array of local dishes and international flavours awaits you, all beautifully presented under one roof!

The Portuguese have made an art out of canning fish and so, as odd as it may sound, one of the best tourist things to do in Lisbon is visit a conserveira. The Conserveira de Lisboa is the city’s most famous cannery shop. The interior resembles an old-fashioned pharmacy, and shelf upon shelf is stacked with the prettiest tinned fish you’ll ever encounter – the perfect place to drop in for a gift or souvenir and a picture. Depending on the area you’re in, you can also check out Comur cannery in Chiado or on Rua da Prata for equally Instagrammable interiors.

Visiting markets is a way of life here, so one of the best things to do in Lisbon to feel like a local is to get yourself to a flea market and absorb the atmosphere. The Feira da Ladra is an antique/craft/flea market held on Tuesday and Saturdays in the Mercado de Santa Clara. You’ll find a colourful collection of all kinds of junk, treasures, curios and collectables, and one side of the square is lined with eateries if you prefer to just people-watch.

If you're curious about how to enjoy Lisbon on a rainy day, consider visiting the Lisbon Oceanarium! You’ll be delighted by the wonderful variety of marine life, featuring an impressive array of species and habitats. It's truly a treat to walk all the way around the gigantic hall-sized tank on multiple levels. You might just find yourself spending hours immersed in the enchanting underwater worlds. 

Plus, you can even arrange an excursion to see the Tagus River dolphins, who have recently made their home in Lisbon’s waters. The Oceanarium is located in the Parque das Nações district, a stylishly revamped marina complete with lovely riverside parks, a thrilling cable car ride, and a selection of upscale restaurants.

The National Tile Museum truly stands out as one of Lisbon's top gems and is a delightful destination for anyone keen on exploring the city's cultural treasures. At first glance, it might not seem like the most thrilling outing, but a visit here is truly among the best experiences in Lisbon for diving into an important part of its culture. 

Lisbon, along with Portugal, is celebrated for its stunning use of tiles in architecture, dating back to the 15th century and continuing to modern times. Art enthusiasts will be mesmerised as they stroll through halls and corridors graced with vibrant tiled artworks – intricate, colourful, and steeped in history, showcasing plenty of Moorish influence. Don't forget to check out the shop; it's a little treasure trove!

The charming coastal town of Cascais is just a lovely 30-minute journey by train or car from Lisbon. This delightful place is known as seafood central! Be sure to try the local sole, sea bass, or sea bream, and afterwards, unwind on the beautiful sandy beaches.

If you're looking for another fantastic beach spot, you might want to consider Costa da Caparica. This spacious and picturesque coastal area is perfect for surfing and relaxation. Getting to Costa da Caparica is a breeze; you can easily hop on a train or bus from Sodré station.

Guincho Beach is close by to Cascais for surfing and swimming, as well as some good coastal walks. If you don't want to get wet - it's good entertainment just watching the surfers and windsurfers from the shore.