The fascinating cobblestone streets, tasty food, and colorful attractions are a few things that make Lisbon a tourist hot spot. The ancient buildings feature blue tiles that look incredibly beautiful, and there is no way to verbally define the beauty of the hills here.
Whether you are an adventure fan or a peace lover, Lisbon has something for all types of tourists. So, if you are planning a trip to Lisbon, here are the best things to do in Lisbon, Portugal.
Top Lisbon Attractions
Bargain at Feira Da Ladra
If you are a fan of London’s Portobello Market, you will have a lovely time at Fiera Da Ladra. The market has something for everyone – from silk handkerchiefs to woolen socks. Arrive early to find the best deals on second-hand items and brand-new accessories. It is a go-to place in Lisbon for shopaholics.
See the Magnificent Tilework
A visit to Museu Nacional do Azulejo will introduce you to the finest tile work you might have never seen before. Learn about the history of tile creation, latest trends in tile work, and get a chance to capture the magnificent collection of ceramics, porcelain, and other varieties of tiles. The entire building is a masterpiece. It has beautiful paintings and embellishments, in addition to the tile collection.
A Day at the Beach
Located within a short distance from Lisbon are some of the quaint and pristine beaches. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars near these beaches. The Cascais beach in Lisbon makes a perfect summer destination for tourists, especially water babies.
Capture the View from Miradouro
You have to climb to this viewpoint to get a splendid view from the top of this hill. It is worth all the effort. For photographers and sightseeing lovers, Miraduoro is one of the must-visit viewpoints in the city. Bring your camera with you and click some mesmerizing shots of the city below. The serene atmosphere, calm and soothing music, and the perfect views make it the top location on our list.
Reach the Top of the Belem Tower
Constructed in the Manuelino style, this great tower was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. First, the tower was built for the city’s protection, but later, it turned into a lighthouse and a sightseeing location for tourists. The building has narrow spiral stairways and several floors. Climb to the top of the tower to get a clear view of the surroundings.
Visit the Jeronimos Monastery
Another world heritage site that’s a must-visit location for tourists is Jeronimos Monastery. There is a vast courtyard, beautifully designed walls, and a big hallway. The place is spectacular and a perfect location for photographers. You will love to spend some alone time here. The place is so peaceful, plus there is a lot to explore.
A Day Trip to Sintra
Your Portugal trip is incomplete without a visit to Sintra, a town located only 20 miles from Lisbon. The city has castle ruins any history fan will love to explore, including a plethora of coffee shops and some lovely boutiques. While in Sintra, do not forget to visit Pena Palace.
Enjoy the Fado Show
Lisbon has something exciting for music fans. The Fado show is your place to explore the traditional Portuguese music that dates back to the 1820s. The melancholic music combined with a delicious dinner at the Fado show is something any music fan will enjoy. For a quiet evening and the best food, attend the Fado show at Mascote Da Atalaia.
A Tram Ride
Lisbon is called the city of seven hills for a reason. It gets pretty exhausting for tourists to wander around the city on foot. Uber rides and other cabs are available, but those looking to explore the town in a traditional style will find a tram ride the most convenient and affordable mode of transportation.
Savor Pastéis De Nata
If you didn’t have Pasteis De Nata on your Portuguese trip, you have missed out on the best dessert of the place. It is a small round pastry-like piece filled with egg custard. This warm dessert is undoubtedly one of the most delicious things to have after lunch or dinner. Since it’s a famous Portuguese dish, you will find it in nearly every restaurant.
Check out the World’s Oldest Bookstore
Livraria Bertrand is the city’s oldest bookstore that dates back to the early 17th century. The building has been regarded as the world’s oldest bookstore to be still standing intact and serving the locals and tourists. Get inside to find a massive collection of books in different genres. In addition to the books, it is a historic landmark of the country. If you are an avid reader, a visit to Livraria Bertrand is a must.
Explore the Carmo Archaeological Museum
Founded in the late 13th century, this gothic-style building was once a church. The stunning architecture has now turned into ruins, which are worth exploring. It has tall pillars and arches. The open structure has the two bodies covered in the glass with the beautiful tile work, and not to mention the ruins that take you back in time.
Visit the Rossio Square
The specialty of this location is the black and white cobblestones covered in the wave pattern. It has two lovely fountains and a plethora of cafes. Come here early for a morning coffee with a splendid view. There is a limited crowd in Rossio Square in the morning, so a perfect time for those looking for some time away from the city’s hustle.
Eat Seafood
For the best dining experience in Lisbon, you should try out the Time Out Market. It is your one-stop place for deliciously cooked seafood. The place has more than 24 different restaurants, many cafe-style seating areas, and a couple of bars. The octopus with mashed potatoes and mussels dipped in the creamy garlic sauce is too delicious to be missed.
Try the Elevator De Santa Justa
It is another major attraction in the center of the city. The site has an elevator built inside a French-style tower standing 147 feet tall and featuring a gothic-style construction. A ride in the beautifully constructed and one of the oldest elevators will get your adrenaline pumping. It can accommodate up to 20 people at a time. Get in the elevator and reach the observation deck on the top to observe a lovely view of the city.
Visit the Orient Museum
Home to the finest Asian artwork, the Orient Museum was founded in 2008. Check out the Gods of Asia Exhibition – the best part of the palace. The Museu do Oriente is a place for art and history lovers.
Check out the Aquarium
It is the largest European aquarium that makes a perfect location for families looking for some fun time in the city. The Lisbon Aquarium has an exhibition that houses more than 450 unique species. There is also a permanent exhibition that contains a hundred different species acquired from different parts of the world, plus it has more than 1,300,000 gallons of water.
Have Some Good Time at Basilica Da Estrela
Among the many beautiful churches of Lisbon, Basilica Da Estrela is the most beautiful and serene one. It was built under Queen Maria’s instructions after giving birth to her son and heir of the family in 1790. The church has two mesmerizing bell towers and a vast dome. The entire architecture is so gorgeous that you won’t take your eyes off the palace once you get there.
Capture the Street Art
The city walls are decorated with graffiti art, one of the most stunning artwork to look at as you wander around the city. You will find random quotes, casual paintings, and some of the finest artwork that delivers different messages. Some of these paintings have a 3D effect, which looks fabulous on the street walls.
Take a Ferry Ride
A ferry ride to Almada is another fun activity to try in Lisbon. You will find plenty of street art on the way to the town and many picturesque things. The town of Almada is an ideal place to spend a lovely evening before you head back to the port to take the ferry back home.
Get the Colorful Toilet Paper
You might not have seen such a colorful view before. The giant wall filled with colorful toilet paper looks so beautiful and unique. You can get one roll for just Є1. Take a moment to observe the massive wall filled with colorful toilet paper. This public bathroom is not only neat, but it is certainly the sexiest one in the city.
A Visit to the Rua Augusta Arch
Offering scenic views to the tourists, The Rua Augusta Arch is the most stunning building in the city that reminds us of the earthquake and tsunami that destroyed Lisbon back in 1755. There is an elevator and stairways for those who want to climb the building. Not only does it give you a 360 degree of Lisbon, but you can learn a lot about its construction after the major earthquake in Lisbon.
Get Soaps and Cologne at Claus Porto
Known for its 130-years of exciting history, the Claus Porto is your go-to place for the famous Portuguese soaps, cologne, scented candles, and other such accessories. At the Misericordia store in Lisbon, you will come across a shop that’s dedicated to Claus Porto products. Explore the collection of soaps and scented candles, and buy them as a souvenir.
Check out the Hip and Cool LX Factory
Lisbon might be popular for its historical location, but its contemporary side is as beautiful as the retro-style buildings. One such place to explore the contemporary side of the city is the Hip and Cool LX factory. This art center has now become home to Lisbon’s best cafes, restaurants, and yoga centers.
Enjoy Snow at Serra da Estrela Mountains
It is one of the few places in Portugal to get covered with the icy white blanket in winters. It is also home to a beautiful range of flora and fauna, giving you an exotic sightseeing experience. Besides, Serra da Estrela Mountains is the only place to have a ski resort in the whole country. A day trip to these mountains will give you a memorable experience.
A City View from the Rooftop
A peaceful morning, a cup of coffee and the scenic view of the city from a height will take your Lisbon tour experience to a whole new level. Fortunately, Lisbon has plenty of such rooftops, offering gorgeous views and delicious coffee. But if you are looking for an ideal place for a perfect day, visit the Park Rooftop Bar.
Capture the Sunset View
Avenida Ribeira das Naus is your go-to spot for a sunset view. A large crowd visits the location just to capture the beautiful sunset and enjoy a serene evening. You will find many quiet spots where you can sit and have some relaxing time while observing the sunset. Have your favorite beverage, walk along the river, take pictures, and do whatever you like. There is no limit. You can enjoy it however you want.
Get Some Me-time at a Spa
The Altis Belem Hotel & Spa is the Swiss spa in Lisbon. A perfect place to give yourself a treat and spend some me-time after a long exhausting tour. The spa center has specialists and masseuses from all over the world. They give you the best massages and beauty treatments to make your day super relaxing and fun.
A Walk Through the 18th Century Plaza
Earlier, the tourists visiting Lisbon would arrive at this Plaza first to enter the city. A walk through this place means a walk through the history of Portugal. In the middle of the plaza, there is a big statue of Dom Jose I. Take a look at the statue sitting on a horse and the spots where the emperor and his son were killed.
Dine at Tapisco
A delicious dinner requires a popular restaurant serving different cuisines. Tapisco is your go-to dining place in Lisbon, especially for Spanish and Portuguese food lovers. The restaurant’s specialty is the unique combination of Portuguese and Spanish flavors that give your taste bud a different level of satisfaction. So come here early for a brunch or an afternoon snack instead.
Spend the Night in Bairro Alto
The narrow streets, vibrant atmosphere, colorful buildings, tasty food, and not to mention, the boho-style decoration are too good to be missed in Lisbon. And, a perfect place to enjoy this is Bairro Alto. The place is calm in the day, but it turns into a crowded market at night, giving you the party vibes.
Check out the Portuguese Craftsmanship at Embaixada Concept Store
The Embaixada Concept Store walks you through the famous Portuguese brands, gastronomy, art, craftsmanship, and culture. The place is a beautiful blend of contemporary and traditional design. Plus, the architectural beauty is beyond amazing. A tour to Embaixada Concept is a must for every art and culture lover.
Explore Fashion at the Museu Do Design E Da Moda
A fashion lover is going to love this place. The exhibition takes you to the collection of furniture, lamps, and other home decor accessories from the 19th century, giving you insights into how fashion trends evolved. Unfortunately, the place was closed for a short while in 2019 for renovation purposes, but it’s open now for tourists.
Pay a visit to the Lisbon Cathedral
Your trip to Lisbon is incomplete without churches. Of course, you will come across plenty of cathedrals in Europe, but this one has something special that brings all kinds of tourists from all over the world (even those who have church fatigue). The building is a blend of different architectural styles since the cathedral was rebuilt and renovated many times.
Explore a Vast Range of Marine Species at Lisbon Oceanarium
Lisbon Oceanarium is Portugal’s largest indoor aquarium that receives more than a million visitors annually. It is a beautiful location for nature and marine life lovers. The place hosts many exhibitions regularly. Besides, it is home to over 16,000 animals, including penguins, seagulls, sharks, seahorses, and more.
Spend Some Relaxing Time at Arrabida Natural Park
This place is for nature lovers. It is filled with lush greenery, a peaceful atmosphere, and an abundance of different varieties of trees. This 108-acre park is only a 30-40 minute ride from the city. The golden sand beaches give you a wonderful vibe, and the food here is delicious. The day trip from Lisbon to Arrabida Natural Park will fill your day with memories.
Buy Tiles at Cortico & Netos
There couldn’t be a better souvenir than tiles in Portugal. Cortico & Netos is one such shop with an excellent collection of intricately designed tiles from the 1960s. So, there is a good chance you will find some vintage stuff here. Some of these tiles were built at firms that no longer exist. The shop has a perfect display of the nation’s industrial heritage.
Hit the Historic Cinema Sao Jorge
Built in 1950, the Sao Jorge Cinema has now turned into a place to watch documentaries, live poetry, premieres, festival screenings, and more. So grab a seat, get popcorn, and get ready to watch the entertaining shows.
Try the Late Birds and Lisbon Gay Scene
Lisbon surprises its tourists with its attractions and an extensive range of activities that can be performed in the city. Lisbon Gay Scene is one such place that attracts LGBT tourists. For gay couples, a perfect place to stay in Lisbon is The Late Birds Hotel. It has a massive courtyard and a fascinating pool area where your guests can have a lovely time.
Board a Cruise
Get on a cruise and enjoy a relaxing evening in the calm water and a mesmerizing view of the surroundings. Enjoy your welcome drink, sit back, and relax for a while. Then, be ready with your camera to click the sunset view. The cruise offers you the most beautiful sunset shots. You will also see the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery before sunset.
Go on a Lisbon Food Tour
For all the foodies out there, here’s a way to make your Lisbon trip more exciting and full of memories. Learn more about European culture, meet the locals, and savor the delicious Portuguese food as you indulge in the town’s rich culture. In addition, you can book a food tour run by locals to discover the hidden cafes, restaurants, and local dining places in the city.
Visit Tomar
Located at a distance of 140 kilometers, a day trip to Tomar is a must for all history fans. The town has many historical landmarks, including the Convent of Christ, the Church of Santa Maria do Olival, the Castle of Almuro, and more. The town itself is declared as the world’s UNESCO heritage site.
Try Portugal Tea at the Companhia Portuguesa do Chá
Portugal is a historical city. Everything in the town is associated with a history that any art or history lover will love to explore. Tea is not an exception. Discover the history of beverages while sipping delicious Portugal tea at the Companhia Portuguesa do Cha – your one-stop place for morning and evening tea.
Eat at the Pop Cereal Cafe
It is affordable, exciting, and a picturesque location for social media addicts. You can click selfies and some photos with the locals. The background is excellent, and so is the food. The cafe serves a wonderful range of flavors, textures, and toppings that can be used to create many combinations. Try the cafe’s famous coffee as you capture the beauty of the interiors.
A Day Spent in Porto
It was once a place for the merchant ship but has now transformed into a tourist hot spot filled with popular cafes, shopping centers, and historical places. There are landmark bridges, narrow alleys, and not to mention, cobblestone paved streets. It is a 2.5-hour ride by train from Lisbon. One day will not be enough. Once you get to this colorful and historical town, you are going to spend a few days exploring the restaurants, shopping centers, and historical landmarks.
Explore the Underdogs Gallery
This art gallery supports the connection between artists and the public. It is kind of a social platform featuring two exhibition areas. Many solo and group exhibitions are conducted here frequently. Give it a visit while you are in Lisbon.
Enjoy Lush Greenery at the Principe Real Garden
This public garden is only a short-distance ride from Lisbon. Take some time to relax in nature and get an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The garden is quite big, with two cafes, benches, chess tables, and a variety of trees (including the Portuguese special “cedar tree”).
Learn More About Art at the Museu Colecao
It is going to take you at least 6-7 hours to explore this museum fully. It has over 1000 artworks from Portugal’s richest man “Jose Berardo.” It is a go-to place for art lovers. The museum holds different varieties of art, ranging from pop art to conceptual art and everything in between.
Get a Souvenir at the Vida Portuguesa
Vida Portuguesa was designed as an art place that could house the art and inventory from brands that have stood the test of time. This art-house shows the beauty of Portugal, the powerful Portuguese brands, and the manufacturing industry through the finest artwork. Get soaps, notebooks, and artwork at Visa Portuguesa or visit the place just for fun.
Enjoy the Wild Nightlife
Lisbon is not only a hotspot for art and history lovers. In addition to the beaches, historical landmarks, and shopping centers, the city houses some of the best bars and pubs in Europe that will make your night the most memorable one. For a safe night trip, consider booking a night tour. The local tour will guide you throughout the trip, showing the best pubs in the city and the places that are known for Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife.
Explore Art at MAAT
The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology is one of the most breathtaking museums in Portugal, and for a good reason. Take in the beautiful architecture of the building and observe a mesmerizing view of the town from the rooftop. You don’t have to be an art lover to enjoy a trip to the MAAT museum. Spend a lovely evening here and head to the local cafes in the area.
Conclusion
The City of Seven Hills isn’t only known for its locations, but it has plenty of exciting activities to offer to its tourists. These were some fun activities to try in Lisbon. Make your trip the most memorable one with the visits to Lisbon’s scenic locations.