Lisbon Tourist Guide – Top Places to Visit

The urban capital of Portugal, Lisbon famed as the City of Seven Hills (so pack your walking shoes), enchants with an attraction you won’t ever find anywhere else in Europe. It is steeped in old-world beauty. This Lisbon tourist guide assist you everywhere in Lisbon.

A journey to Lisbon looks like traveling back in time because of the city’s historic streetcars, charming cafés, hilltop palaces, and the Alfama District. In this time capsule, grandmothers sell Ginja D’Alfama by the roadside.

Lisbon is among the most attractive and livable places we’ve seen. Lisbon reminded me perfectly of San Francisco, where I had previously lived in the late 1990s. It’s stunning and mountainous has the same artistic flair, and has some incredible Portuguese and foreign cuisine. It’s one of those cities where just being there makes you feel happy.

On the one hand, Lisbon is a city steeped in history, culture, and customs. From the Fado music that fills the air to the centuries-old palaces that watch over its neighborhoods, Lisbon is a historian’s paradise. On the other side, the biggest city in Portugal is bursting with nightlife (Bairro Alto alone has over 100 bars), adventure, parties, and oh-so-formidable food (it will not take long until you have some pasties de Nata in your hand), enticing the modern traveler with its wide range of activities.

Lisbon has so much going for it that it’s hardly surprising that it’s become one of the most popular travel topics in Europe in recent years. This complete Lisbon tourist guide will provide you with all the information you need to organize your first trip to Lisbon with places to visit if you’ve heard the buzz and want to find out what the fuss is about.

What to expect from Lisbon?

When I visited Portugal for the first time, I was genuinely unsure of what to expect. I had heard amazing things about the country, but no one had ever properly explained WHY it was so amazing. The best way I can put it is as follows:

It is romantic and mountainous like San Francisco would be if it were over 2,700 years old and coated in gorgeous azulejos.

With everything from scenery-chic roofs to pleasantly crowded local tabernas with tables spilling out into the streets, you’ll discover a fantastic food scene. Of course, you can’t overlook the kind and welcoming people.

Did I say that it is far less expensive than its nearby, more well-known European destinations? Have I pushed you to come yet?

Best time to visit Lisbon

Lisbon is a wonderful city to discover in any season of the year due to its warmer winters. The ideal times to visit, however, are between March and May or September and October if you wish to go when the weather is at its most agreeable. You won’t experience the summer heat or the swarms of visitors because the weather is beautiful.

March-May

One of the greatest periods to travel to Lisbon is during MAR-MAY. Temp range from 50 to 70 °F (10 to 21 °C), and hotel prices are cheaper than in the summer. Always wear suitable clothing because days might be gloomy with the potential of rain.

June – august

Summer is Lisbon’s busiest season, so wherever you go, anticipate people. The warmest season of the year, with daily highs, regularly topping 80 °F ( 27 °C). Additionally, hotel rates will be at their peak.

September – October

Much like spring, fall is one of the greatest seasons to travel to Lisbon. Although it does start to grow colder and rainier, try to dress accordingly because it is cheaper and less popular than in summer.

November – February

Lisbon has significantly warmer winters than other European capitals, making this a fantastic time to visit. Although costs are lesser, bear in mind that these are among the rainy months of the year when making travel plans to Lisbon.

We traveled to Lisbon in the middle of May, right just after the rains from April had stopped. It remained cloudy and cool on some days, but it didn’t rain. I believe that by the end of May, the weather would have become even more pleasant.

How to travel to Lisbon?

Lisbon is a very easily reachable city. There are several ways to get there depending on your location. we got to Lisbon by rail from Porto.

Via plane

Tourists flying into Lisbon will land at the Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS). Roughly 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) north of the downtown area is where you’ll find Lisbon Airport. Any of the below methods can be used to go to central Lisbon.

Metro

Among the fastest and least costly methods to move from Lisbon Airport to central Lisbon is by metro. You might ride the Lisbon metro for EUR 1.50 one way, and it goes from 6:30 AM to 1 AM.

AEROBÚS

From the Lisbon Airport to the city’s downtown, passengers can travel via shuttle with Aerobús. Two routes go to the heart of Lisbon; one ends at Cais do Sodré, and the other travels directly from the airport to Sete Rios. Both routes cost EUR 4 for people and EUR 2 for kids per way and run every 20 minutes between 7:30 AM and 11 PM. Additionally, tickets offer 24 hours of limitless travel on the Aerobús network.

The Aerobús shuttle busses have been temporarily discontinued as of January 2022, most likely due to the current state of the world. Before making any plans, make sure to check the Aerobús website.

Private/shared Transport

You can organize a private or shared airport transfer in advance via Get Your Guide from Lisbon Portela Airport to your accommodation in the middle of Lisbon. Even though they might not drive you right to your accommodation, shared transfers will be much less costly.

Uber/Taxi

The rate of an Uber drive from the Lisbon Airport to the city’s area is around EUR 12 and EUR 18. Prepare to spend about the same as an Uber because Lisbon Portela Airport is situated inside the city borders, reducing the cost of taking a cab than other European capitals. If traveling by taxi, be sure that the driver switches on the meter as they’re required to use it by law.

Via train

Train journeys to Lisbon can be better practical if you’re already in Portugal or a neighboring town in Spain. Trains are convenient, swift, and reasonably priced. Additionally, as rail stations are typically situated inside the city center, it will save you travel to and from the airport.

From Porto to Lisbon, we rode the Alfa Pendular, and a tourist class ticket set us back EUR 31.20. The trip lasted roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes.

You may look up train schedules on the Comboios de Portugal website if you want to get to Lisbon by rail. We purchased our Porto-Lisbon tickets from this site, which is the official rail website for Portugal. another well-known transportation website that you might visit.

You can then order an Uber to take you to your hotel from the train station.

Via Bus

Like with trains, if you’re already in Portugal or a nearby town in Spain, taking a bus to Lisbon can be the best alternative. On Bookaway, you can view bus schedules and buy tickets. You can then grab an Uber to your lodging from the bus stop.

Via Car

One of the finest ways to see Portugal and other regions of Europe is by vehicle. We traveled to Lisbon from Spain, where we had previously traveled by car from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela. It allowed us the flexibility to stop whenever and wherever we chose, unlike public transit.

You can rent a car on Rentalcars.com if you want to travel to Lisbon by car.

Where to exchange currency?

The Euro is Portugal’s currency unit (EUR). I avoided having to convert money in Lisbon by withdrawing EUR from ATMs in Portugal. These days, it appears that this is the greatest choice in Lisbon and many other European cities.

In addition to saving you from having to bring too much foreign cash with you, ATM rates are competitive. Additionally, I learned that Cambios (currency exchange offices) typically provide less favorable conversion rates.

It’s a good idea to let your bank know before your trip to Lisbon if you want to use your ATM card outside of the country. In this manner, you avoid any issues. My ATM card works in the majority of the machines, but not all, in my experience.

Please take note that some ATMs in Lisbon may ask you if you want to proceed “with or without conversion.” To avoid conversion, always go forward. If you persist with the conversion, the foreign bank running the ATM will handle it for you, typically at very disadvantageous rates.

Useful Note

Getting Around Lisbon

A terrific method to see the city is by using the huge and effective public transit system in Lisbon. By tram, metro, bus, and boat, you may travel throughout Lisbon. It’s a wonderful city to discover on foot if you prefer to stroll as I do.

I strongly advise purchasing one of these public transit cards if you want to use public transit frequently. They may be more affordable and practical than buying single-trip tickets.

Public Transportation 24-Hour Ticket

With this simple 24-hour pass for EUR 6.90, you’ll have unrestricted access to Lisbon’s tram, metro, and bus services. Additionally, you’ll get free use of the funicular lines and Santa Justa Lift.

A 24-hour transit pass is a wise choice if you anticipate doing five or more journeys in a single day. One is available for purchase at any metro stop.

Viva Viagem Card

The Viva Viagem card is a prepaid credit public transit card for Lisbon. The card is EUR 0.50 and may be topped up at every metro ticket machine with EUR 3 to EUR 40. Even a 24-hour public transportation ticket may be placed into it.

Please be aware that, in contrast to other major cities, each traveler in Lisbon needs a separate Viva Viagem card. One card cannot be utilized by over 1 person.

Lisbon card

A Lisbon Card can be an intelligent decision if this is your 1st time traveling to Lisbon and you want to see several of the city’s main sites. For 24, 48, or 72 hours, you will get access to infinite public transit journeys. You may view several of the city’s (Lisbon) main sights as a tourist for free with this pass, which is valid on CP trains (Comboios de Portugal) traveling to Sintra and Cascais.

Buy a Lisbon Card

No matter how you choose to navigate Lisbon, I strongly advise that you first download the Google Maps app (iOS | Android). It will outline all available public transit options for getting from A to B. We never leave home without it since it is trustworthy and accurate.

In case you need to order a ride, make sure Uber is installed on your phone as well. In Lisbon, we occasionally utilized it when we were too lazy to use the public transit system.

Places to visit in Lisbon

What Lisbon attractions shouldn’t I miss? Those who are visiting Lisbon for the first time will undoubtedly have that question. We’ve included some of the greatest tourist attractions in Lisbon that you just must not miss below to guide you in reducing your FOMO.

1. Jerónimos Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

One of the most popular sights in Lisbon, Jerónimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with Belem Tower. It is the old Order of Saint Jerome monastery that was finished in the 17th century and was established as a monument commemorating Vasco de Gama’s return from India. The cathedral is home to the famous explorer’s grave as well as that of the poet and author Lus de Cames from Portugal.

The Portuguese poet Luis de Cames’ grave is also located inside the cathedral. His grave is placed so that it faces his wife, allowing them to be together when they are raised. Alongside wonderfully carved, towering columns, stained-glass windows provide an eerie, otherworldly glow over the graves.

The impressive vaulted roof of the cloister is supported above by elaborately carved stone pillars.

Belem’s Jerónimos Monastery is situated approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) west of the city’s center. It is a lovely waterfront location close to several popular tourist destinations, including Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. Using public transportation, you may easily spend the entire day sightseeing and having fun in the neighborhood. Additionally, it’s a terrific spot for people-watching.

The cloister is accessible for EUR 10, although entry to the church is free. You may visit the monastery for free if you have a Lisbon Card. You may reserve a guided tour with Get Your Guide if you want to visit the monastery.

Opening Hours: 10AM-5:30PM, Tue-Sun (closed Mondays)
Entrance: FREE (church), EUR 10 (cloister)
ApproximatelyTime to Spend: About 2-3 hrs
Closest Public Transportation Station: Belem (Cascáis line)

Useful Information

2. Monument to the Discoveries (dos Descobrimentos)

Padro dos Descobrimentos, or Monument to the Discoveries, is a huge waterfront building that is close to Jerónimos Monastery and Belem Tower. The statue of Prince Henry the Navigator as well as other illustrious Portuguese explorers was made to honor Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

I felt pleased to observe the monument from the outside, but if you want to get a birds-eye perspective of Belem and the river, head to the observation deck just at the peak of the structure. Lisbon Cards provides a 30% discount off the EUR 6 entrance fee to the deck. Through Get Your Guide, you may reserve a guided journey from the Monument to the Discoveries.

Opening Hours: 10AM-6PM, Tue-Sun (closed Mondays)
Entrance: EUR 6 (Observation deck)
ApproximatelyTime to Spend: About 30 mins – 1 hr
Closest Public Transportation Station: Belem (Cascáis line)

Useful Information

3. Belem Tower (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

The 16th-century stronghold known as Belem Tower functioned as Lisbon’s official entrance. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built on the north bank of the Tagus and is frequently used to represent Europe’s Age of Discoveries.

For Portuguese explorers, it served as a place of embarkation and disembarkation in the past.

We don’t advise joining the long line to get to the peak since it may be unpleasant. Spending your time wandering around the Belém promenade is a far better choice.
With several live musicians busking on the seafront or in the neighboring park, Belém reflects Lisbon’s passion for music. Antiga Confeitara de Belém, a local institution that is worth the wait and a must-do activity on your Lisbon city vacation, also serves the greatest pastel de nata in the vicinity.

Belem Tower is one of Lisbon’s top tourist destinations and, like Jerónimos Monastery, a national monument of Portugal. Although admission costs EUR 6, a Lisbon Card grants free admission. You may reserve a tour of Belem Tower with Get Your Guide if you want to go there.

Opening Hours: 10AM-5:30PM, Tue-Sun (closed Mondays)
Entrance: EUR 6
ApproximatelyTime to Spend: About 1-2 hrs
Closest Public Transportation Station: Belem (Cascáis line)

Useful Information

4. Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square)

The major public square in Lisbon is called Praça do Comércio. It was constructed on the site of the former Royal Palace, which stood beside the river until being leveled by an earthquake in 1755.

The Arco da Rua Augusta, often known as the “Rua Augusta Arch,” is the square’s centerpiece. It was constructed in 1873 to commemorate Lisbon’s restoration following the devastating earthquake.

There is a statue of the previous king José I (José I) in the center of the square, mounted on a horse. Vasco da Gama and Marques de Pombal, two notable Portuguese luminaries, are commemorated with sculptures in the Arco Triunfal da Rua Augusta, a triumphal arch at the back of the building. At the peak of this arch, there is a tiny viewing platform that visitors can access for a modest price.

You can’t miss Rua Augusta if you cross the street beneath the arch. It is a pedestrian-only area with a variety of stores, eateries, street performers, and artists.

Probably Lisbon’s busiest street is this one.
You may find Cais de Colunas, a marble flight of stairs flanked by two majestic columns, on the southern end of the plaza, close to the river. An excellent location for photos is here. Not to be missed is the breathtaking riverside stroll from Cais do Sodré to Praça do Comércio (turn right if facing the river). This is a pleasant location, particularly if you’re traveling to Lisbon during the summer.

You may visit Praça do Comércio on your own with no difficulty, but if you’d prefer to have a guide, you can reserve one via Get Your Guide.

ApproximatelyTime to Spend: About 30 mins – 1 h
Closest Public Transportation Station: Terreiro do Paço‎ (Blue line), Baixa / Chiado‎ (Green and Blue lines)

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5. Santa Justa Lift

This stunning elevator, also known as the Santa Justa Lift or Elevador de Santa Justa, has two uses. It not only provides breathtaking city views, but it is also the quickest route from Baixa to the Bairro Alto area.

Although it might appear like an unnecessary tourist trap, the Santa Justa Lift is anything but that. It was one of the city’s earliest public transit systems when it was initially introduced in the early 20th century. Lisbon was constructed on seven hills, making it challenging to get from upper to lower Lisbon due to the steep slopes, but the Santa Justa Lift made it much simpler.

Once there, you may reach a beautiful platform with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Lisbon. Although Lisbon offers many beautiful vistas, you absolutely shouldn’t miss this one! You won’t soon forget the thrill of using this vintage lift, either.

TIP – Since the lift is operational until late at night, consider visiting later in the day when most day visitors have departed. There is often a long line here throughout the day.

Good To Know – Santa Justa Lift is a component of Lisbon’s public transit system, both the Lisbon Card and the hop-on-hop-off bus tickets cover its cost. 

You may visit Santa Justa Lift on your own with relative ease, but if you’d rather travel as part of a guided tour, you can do so by making a reservation with Get Your Guide.

Opening Hours: 7AM-10PM, daily
Entrance: EUR 5.15 (roundtrip), EUR 1.50 (viewpoint)
ApproximatelyTime to Spend: About 30 mins – 1 hr
Closest Public Transportation Station: Baixa / Chiado (Blue and Green lines)

Useful Information

6. Castelo de São Jorge

One of Lisbon’s greatest recognizable sites is the historical castle known as Castelo de Sao Jorge or Sao Jorge Castle. It is situated at the top of So Jorge Hill, the tallest hill in Lisbon and home of the picture-perfect Alfama neighborhood.

The Visigoths established a minor castle called Castelo de So Jorge in the 5th century. The Moors expanded it in the 11th century, and from the 13th through the 16th century, when both the Bishop and the King of Portugal lived there, it was at its most opulent.

The Lisbon quake also significantly damaged the castle, and military buildings were built there in its place. The castle wasn’t reconstructed until the 1940s when it was made accessible to the public.

Although there isn’t much to see within the castle, the outside structures are remarkable, and the vistas are just breathtaking. With the Christ statue and Ponte 25 de Abril bridge in the background, you get a wonderful view of the city.

TIP – Wear appropriate shoes because there are several steps and barriers to scale.

11 towers, a museum, a pub, and a restaurant are all highlights of Sao Jorge Castle, which also offers some of Lisbon’s top stunning vistas. The castle is open for both independent and guided tours.

Opening Hours: 9AM-7PM, daily
Entrance: EUR 10, kids under 12- free, and there are discounts for students and seniors.
ApproximatelyTime to Spend: About 2-3 hrs
Closest Public Transportation Station: Miradouro Santa Luzia (Tram, Line 28), Castelo (Bus, Line 737)

Useful Information

7. Tram 28

The earliest trams in Lisbon’s ancient tramway system were driven by horses when the routes were first constructed in 1873. In the 20th century, the tramway began to be electrified, and by the 1960s, Lisbon’s tramway network included 27 lines. Six of the original lines remain today, with line 28 being the most well-known.
Visiting Lisbon would not be complete without taking a ride on the renowned tram number 28! The tram is typically yellow, but you may sometimes see red and multicolored trams with advertisements on them. This iconic tramline travels through the neighborhoods of Alfama, Baixa Chiado, Graca, and Estrela as it connects Martim Moniz with Campo Ourique.

It might be worthwhile for you to complete at least some of this excursion if you have the time. However, the tram is frequently extremely busy and a favorite hangout for pickpockets. Therefore, avoid traveling during the day for the greatest experience (it’s much quieter in the morning or at night). Additionally, if you want to be certain that you obtain a seat, get on the tram at one of its end stations.

It is simpler to purchase a 1-day transit pass if you are planning a lengthy trip (or the earlier-mentioned Lisbon Card). You won’t have to worry about trying to buy tickets on the crowded tram thanks to this.

Insider Tip – The Alcantara tram depot is adjacent to the LX Factory; read more about this amazing spot below. The best time to capture photos is when things are still and empty. Additionally, there is the Carris Museum, a museum that housed a depot of trams. The kids will have the chance to observe the trams and the metro up close without having to contend with the city’s crowds.

TIP – Some walking tours in Lisbon, including this one, include a brief ride on Tram 28 if you find it all a little overwhelming.

The entire Tram 28 route is also covered by a very good tuk-tuk tour, which enables you to visit the same locations much more leisurely and away from the crowds.

This is arguably a preferable option unless you must sit (or, more likely, stand), in the first tram. And there are lots more trams to see along the way! Additionally, photographing from a tuk-tuk is much simpler than doing so from a tram’s moving window.

8. Oceanário De Lisboa

The biggest aquarium in Europe is found at the Oceanário de Lisboa, often known as the Lisbon Oceanarium. It is set in Parque das Naçes and has a sizable collection of over 16,000 aquatic creatures of 450 various kinds. The aquarium’s centerpiece is a 5,000,000 liter (1,300,000 US gal) tank including sharks, rays, barracudas, moray eels, and a sizable sunfish.

Tickets for the oceanarium can be purchased at the door or in advance via Get Your Guide.

Opening Hours: 10AM-7PM, daily
Entrance: EUR 19 (adults), EUR 10 (kids ages 4-12)
ApproximatelyTime to Spend: About 2-3 hrs
Closest Public Transportation Station: Oriente (East) Station – Check the Oceanario website for more information

Useful Information

9. MAAT

The term MAAT means Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology. Leading artists, architects, and philosophers from across the world show their work at this modern art museum and cultural hub.

On the same day that you tour Jerónimos Monastery and Belem Tower, stop at MAAT, which is situated in Belem near the Tagus River.

Opening Hours: 11AM-7PM, Wed-Mon (closed Tuesdays)
Entrance: EUR 9
ApproximatelyTime to Spend: About 2-3 hrs
Closest Public Transportation Station: Belem (Cascáis line)

Useful Information

Best Places to Stay in Lisbon

The Portuguese capital has several lovely districts. Your vacation to Lisbon might be even better if you choose the finest lodging option depending on your preferences.

Do you wish to attend a party? Bairro Alto is surely the spot for you. Do you desire to be close to a river? The preferable option in such a case would be Cais do Sodre.

If this is your first time touring Lisbon, the Baixa/Chiado region is the perfect spot for you to stay. I’ll go into more depth about each neighborhood below in this Lisbon tourist guide. You’ll be situated in the center of Lisbon, near a range of tourist sites, stores, restaurants, pubs, and transit choices.

1. BAIXA / CHIADO

When traveling to Lisbon for the first time, one of the greatest areas to reside in is the Baixa/Chiado district. You will be placed in the center of Lisbon and close to several of the city’s biggest tourist sites, including the Santa Justa lift, Rossio Square, and Praça do Comércio (and its Arco da Rua Augusta).

There are many eateries, cafés, stores, and pubs in this attractive neighborhood, making it ideal for exploring on foot. In addition, additional interesting Lisbon areas will be accessible by foot.

• Luxury: Pousada de Lisboa – Small Luxury Hotels Of The World
• Midrange: My Story Hotel Rossio
• Budget: Lost Inn Lisbon Hostel

2. BAIRRO ALTO

Bairro Alto is undoubtedly where you want to be if having a good time at night is vital to you. Throughout the day, it is a peaceful neighborhood with cobblestone streets, but at night, it transforms into one of Lisbon’s liveliest and most exciting districts. Numerous hip pubs, cafés, restaurants, and rooftop patios may be found there. It’s a great place to explore at night although if you don’t want to party. The streets are alive with activity.

• Luxury: Bairro Alto Hotel
• Midrange: Dear Lisbon – Charming House
• Budget: Lookout Lisbon Hostel

3. CAIS DO SODRE

One of my favorite Lisbon locations is Cais do Sodre. Mercado da Ribeira and Time Out Market are located in this lovely seaside area. You’ll visit this incredible food hall several times during your vacation to Lisbon if you travel for food as often as we do.
The “Pink Street,” also known as Rua Nova do Carvalho, is located in Caid do Sodre. One of Lisbon’s trendiest districts, Pink Street, also known as Rua Cor-de-Rosa, was formerly a red-light district. It comprises a pink-painted boulevard with some of the sexiest clubs and nightclubs in the city on each side of it. According to what I’ve read, area partygoers usually start their evening in Bairro Alto and conclude it at Pink Street.

• Luxury: Lisbon Finestay 8 Building Apartments
• Midrange: Azulejos Cais Sodré B&B
• Budget: Sunset Destination Hostel

4. PRINCIPE REAL

We stayed here on our most recent trip to Lisbon. We reserved a nice homestay within a short distance from Lisbon’s Botanical Garden and the hip Embaixada retail center.

Principe Real, which is near Bairro Alto to the north and is accessible on foot, has a large number of boutiques, galleries, antique stores, eateries, cafés, and pubs. It is a bustling commercial area with a vibe like Bairro Alto, but a little calmer, which some people may enjoy.

• Luxury: Memmo Príncipe Real – Design Hotels
• Midrange: 1869 Príncipe Real House
• Budget: Royal Prince Hostel

5. AVENIDA DA LIBERDADE

One of the most abundant places to reside in Lisbon is the neighborhood near Avenida da Liberdade. It features a 1.5 km (0.9 miles) strip of 5-star hotels, retail centers, designer shops, and luxury restaurants and is sometimes compared to France’s Champs-Élysées.

Av. da Liberdade, which lies north of Baixa/Chiado and immediately east of Principe Real, is a great option for those who want to stay in a more affluent community of Lisbon while still being close to the city’s major attractions.

• Luxury: Valverde Hotel
• Midrange: Hotel Britania – Lisbon Heritage Collection – Avenida
• Budget: Green Heart Hostel

6. ALFAMA

One of Lisbon’s most picturesque districts is Alfama. It provides a few of the most breathtaking sights of the town and river and is located on the southeast slope of the exact hill topped by Castelo de Sao Jorge.

Alfama is regarded as one of Lisbon’s oldest and most historic neighborhoods and managed to avoid the bulk of the damage wrought by the disaster of 1755. With its whitewashed terraced buildings with orange tiled ceilings and wrought iron balconies, it preserves much of its original Moorish beauty from when it was first founded by Moors in 7AD.

Alfama is among Lisbon’s busier and most popular districts despite its beauty. Keep that in mind while choosing where to stay in Lisbon because of the city’s high slopes and tendency to grow somewhat busy.

• Luxury: Lisbon Best Choice Prime Apartments Alfama
• Midrange: Alfama – Lisbon Lounge Suites
• Budget: Alfama Home

7. BELEM

Belem would be an excellent area to stay if you wish to be closer to the ocean and avoid navigating Lisbon’s challenging hills. It has some of the nicest waterfront views in all of Lisbon because it is located right next to the Tagus River.

5 kilometers (3.1 miles) to the east of the city center of Lisbon is Belem. The location puts you close to many of the city’s most popular tourist spots, including Belem Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, MAAT, Jerónimos Monastery, and Pastéis de Belém, even though it is somewhat removed from the city’s main commercial zones and will require you to use public transportation more frequently.

• Luxury: Altis Belem Hotel & Spa – Design Hotels
• Midrange: Geronimo Guest House Belém
• Budget: Restelo House

8. PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES

Parque das Naçes is situated outside the city’s core, similar to Belem. For families traveling together, taking public transportation may be a wonderful option to get to downtown Lisbon.

Parque das Naçes, formerly an industrial district, was modernized for the World Expo in 1998 and is now one of Lisbon’s most up-to-date neighborhoods. Numerous family-friendly attractions, like the Oceanário de Lisboa (aquarium) and Pavilhao, do Conheciment, are located near the Lisbon Airport (science and technology museum).

• Luxury: MYRIAD by SANA Hotels
• Midrange: Moxy Lisboa Oriente
• Budget: Oriente DNA Studios

Where to Eat in Lisbon

Avoid any tourist traps that are “conveniently” situated close to well-known tourist sites in Lisbon in this guide if eating local dishes is valuable to you.

I’ve selected our top four restaurants in Lisbon to help you pick which ones to go to. For additional photographs and details, be sure to see the whole Lisbon tourist cuisine guide.

1. Time Out Market Lisbon

A trip to Lisbon’s wildly renowned Time Out Market should be top of your list of priorities if, like us, you travel for food. It is a hip food hall with more than 40 booths that showcase some of Lisbon’s top eateries, pubs, and pastry stores. Looking for some of the top croquettes, bacalhau a bras, conservas, and pastel de nata in the city? Thankfully, they are all gathered together under one roof.

Time Out Market Lisbon, which is housed in the storied Mercado da Ribeira in Cais do Sodre, is very well-liked; therefore, expect a throng during prime hours. I advise going at off-peak hours to make things a little bit simpler because it might be difficult to get a seat.

2. Cervejaria Ramiro

The best restaurant in Lisbon is Cervejaria Ramiro. With good cause, it appears in practically every vacation food program, YouTube video, and blog article about Lisbon. Every foodie in Lisbon must try the seafood at this “cervejaria-marisqueira” since it is very excellent.

Everything we had at Cervejaria Ramiro was excellent, but the sapateira recheada—a Portuguese-inspired crab dish—might have been the standout. It’s delicious! 

Be Prepared to Pay – Around EUR 50–60 per person

3. Ponto Final

The most memorable part of our trip may not have been the seafood feast at Cervejaria Ramiro, but it might have been the sunset meal at Ponto Final. It provided one of the most stunning and photogenic restaurant locations I’ve ever seen, perched on a concrete pier with a view of the Tagus River and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

You must know what to order since, according to what I’ve read, the cuisine at Ponto Final can be hit or miss. We ordered the monkfish stew, or Arroz de tamboril, based on local recommendations. I advise doing the same because it’s really tasty and good for two.

Ponto Final, which is in Almada, sits at the end of a lengthy pier and features intriguing street art. You’ll have to catch a ferry from Cais do Sodre to Cacilhas to arrive there.

Be Prepared to Pay – For the monkfish stew, budget around EUR 41.50. (suitable for two)

4. Pasteis de Belem (Home of the best pastel de nata!)

Lisbon is home to a large number of pastry shops that sell pastel de nata, however, there is simply one Pasteis de Belem. The most renowned pastry store in Lisbon, Pasteis de Belem, is where the original recipe for pastel de nata was created. In Portugal, I ate pastel de nata virtually every day, and Pasteis de Belem had the finest selection.

The Jerónimos Monastery, which is where this famous Portuguese delicacy is said to have originated in the 18th century, is not far from Pasteis de Belem. Belem is conveniently accessible by public transportation, so you shouldn’t pass up this opportunity.

Be Prepared to Pay – around EUR 1.15 per unit and EUR 6.90 per unit.

Map of Places to interest in Lisbon

I’ve placed all the locations suggested in our Lisbon travel guide on this map to make it easier for you to see where everything is.

Budget For Visit to Lisbon AND Summary Of Expenses

Is it costly to travel to Lisbon? Although it isn’t a particularly costly city, there are methods to save money that will assist you in extending your budget.

You should budget at least EUR 65 per day if you’ll be staying in Lisbon for three full days and sharing a moderate hotel room with one other person.

This includes the cost of your hotel accommodation, food, travel, and pocket WiFi. Here is a summary of costs:

Accommodation options

The amount that each guest should spend for lodgings varies substantially. For EUR 62 per night, we had a wonderful but basic guesthouse in Principe Real. If you’re on a tight budget while visiting Lisbon, private rooms will cost more, but you can book a night in a hostel for as low as EUR 7.

Meals

In Lisbon, sandwiches cost between 5 and 10 euros. Restaurant entrees might cost between 15 and 20 euros. I advise setting aside, on average, about EUR 20–25 per day for eating, more if you drink wine.

Transportation

If you stick to our recommended plan for Lisbon, a three-day public transit cost of EUR 21 should be plenty.

Entry Fees

The fee you pay will depend on your travel plans and the sights you hope to see. You are welcome to include entry expenses in the proposed budget, but as was previously mentioned, getting a Lisbon Card will reduce your money on both transit and admission fees.

Portugal SIM

Your expense for an eSIM to Portugal will be about EUR 26.

Total expenses

In addition to entry fees, this works out to around EUR 62 per person each day. Because Jin and I are middle-of-the-road travelers who appreciate fine food and drink, the suggested budget is appropriate for us. Adapt depending on your personal travel preferences.

Lisbon Travel Tips

1. Keep in contact While in Portugal

When traveling, a strong, dependable Wi-Fi connection is important. You’ll require it to go about, read signs, and use social media. Simply having access to Google Maps is worth the price.

We didn’t need to rent a portable Wi-Fi device in Europe because we already had one. However, you may get an eSIM with Klook if you wish to keep connected while visiting Portugal.

2. Become ready for the Hills

Lisbon is a hilly city, so walking about on foot will put your stamina to the test. Although the public transit is excellent, a significant chunk of your tour will require walking. If mobility is a problem, you might wish to pick a hotel in a less steep area of the city.

3. Purchase a Lisbon Card

As said, tourists visiting Lisbon for the first time might choose to get a Lisbon Card. For 24, 48, or 72 hours, it will grant you unrestricted access to the city’s public transit as well as free admission to many of its top sites. Additionally, you may utilize it to get to Sintra and Cascais. To purchase a Lisbon Card through Get Your Guide, click on the provided link.

4. Bring Home Conservas

Speaking about sardines in a can, conservas are among the nicest gifts you can take home from Lisbon. Gourmet canned fish is known as conservas and is quite common in Portugal and Spain. Since the 1850s, they have played a significant role in Portuguese culture and food.

Aesthetic tins are used to pack preserved seafood including anchovies, bacalhau, octopus, and eel before being wrapped in paper. They are utterly wonderful and the ideal Portuguese culinary memento.

One of Lisbon’s most renowned conservas stores is called Conserveira de Lisboa. They have two locations: one in Time Out Market and one next to Praça do Comércio.

Although Conserveira de Lisboa is great, you may also want to try out O Mundo Fantastico da Sardinha Portuguesa if you’re looking for genuinely gorgeous tins. Even though their costs are far more than those of other stores, they offer some of the most beautifully made tins. These conservas are probably more for storing than consuming at these costs. Even tins with your birth year are available.

5. Avoid getting aboard Tram 28 at Praça Martim Moniz

Tram 28 begins at Praça Martim Moniz. There is always a long line there, so I advise getting on the tram farther down the route. The majority of the vehicles on Tram 28 will still be packed because it is a very popular route, but if you wait long enough, a less-crowded car will eventually arrive. I never had a long wait to board a vehicle where the passengers didn’t appear to be crammed into a can.

6. Keep Your Baggage

Having a secure location to store your stuff is increasingly essential as more and more people choose Airbnb over hotels. While awaiting our check into our AirBnB in a few European towns, we had to leave our bags in lockers because we didn’t need them in Lisbon.

You may check Luggage Hero for storage choices in Lisbon if you require a safe place to keep your luggage for a few hours.

7. Obtain Travel Insurance

We didn’t frequently get travel insurance when we were younger, but as we’ve gotten older and more knowledgeable, we’ve realized how crucial it may be. The truth is that traveling to a different nation might be unpredictable. Should something unfortunate or unplanned occur while traveling, having solid insurance coverage might come in very handy.

When we do feel that we require insurance, SafetyWing is where we always purchase it. They are a well-known source of travel insurance that many long-term travelers utilize.

8. renting a car

One of the finest methods to visit Europe is to rent a car and drive it yourself. You have the liberty to go whenever and anywhere you like. In Portugal, we didn’t rent a car, but we did in Santorini and Spain.

You may use Rentalcars.com to hire a car in Portugal or anyplace else in Europe if you’re thinking about doing so.

9. Look for Lisbon travel offers

Vouchers for tours and other travel-related activities may be purchased on several websites. Get Your Guide is one of the greatest online resources for planning a trip to Lisbon. One of the top online retailers for travel, they provide a great range of discounts on tours, tourist tickets, airport transfers, and more.

10. Carry the Proper Power Adapter

Make sure you pack the appropriate power adapters for your phones because Portugal uses Type C or Type F outlets. 230V is the electrical voltage, while 50Hz is the usual speed.

have fun!

Although I’m far from an authority in Lisbon, I do hope that you’ll find this information to be helpful about Lisbon in this tourist guide. I’m simply going to mention a few of the lessons I took away from our travels.

Please do not forget to leave any comments or questions in the below space. Additionally, you are invited to join our Facebook travel group.

Enjoy your time in Lisbon and thanks for reading!

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