Lisbon Travel Guide 2024 (+ Free Download)
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here.
Lisbon is a city that will steal your heart from the moment you arrive. Between the pristine views, colorfully tiled buildings, and buzzing art and fashion scene, Portugal’s capital is a captivating destination for all types of travelers.
No matter what you’re here to see and do, one thing’s for sure – you won’t get bored exploring this beautiful city. Our Lisbon Travel Guide will have you planning your dream vacation to Lisbon in no time.
Free Download!
CHEAT SHEETS: LONDON, PARIS, LISBON, & ROME
Use one or use them all! Sign up & we’ll send you our cheat sheets for all 4 cities.
Get a jumpstart on your planning with an overview of each city: when to go, where to stay, can’t miss activities, and how to get around.
Facts: Lisbon Travel Guide
- Lisbon is the westernmost capital in Europe!
- It’s nicknamed the City of Seven Hills after the seven hills that surround the main part of the city center.
- If the 25 de Abril Bridge looks familiar, it’s because it has the same design as San Francisco’s Bay Bridge (both were built by the same construction company) and is painted a similar color to the Golden Gate Bridge!
- After Athens, Lisbon is the second oldest city in Europe, with a history dating back to 1200 BC.
- The yellow trams you see in Lisbon were once called Americanos, as they were modeled after the horse-drawn carriages in New York and New Orleans.
- In 1755, a disastrous earthquake destroyed more than 85% of the buildings in Lisbon and killed one-third of Lisbon’s population.
Lisbon Geography
Portugal’s capital city is located on the banks of the Tagus River between the Atlantic Ocean and the Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve. Besides having a beautiful waterfront area, Lisbon is also built on top of a series of hills, great for panoramic views but not so great for easy walking. Make sure you pack comfortable shoes!
Lisbon is roughly 39 square miles, but most of the main sights are in the historic center. It’s in this area where you’ll find the picturesque neighborhoods of Baixa, Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado (we’ll share more about these places a bit later).
Lisbon Travel Guide Fast FAQs:
What’s the currency?
The Euro! As with many countries in the European Union, Lisbon, as well as the rest of Portugal, uses the Euro.
Do I need cash in Lisbon?
Lisbon is a big, international city, and credit cards are widely accepted by most businesses. However, it’s always a good idea to carry a little bit of cash on you, as some smaller shops may require a minimum spend for card payments. And if you’re taking public transportation and don’t buy a ticket at the machine ahead of time, you’ll also need cash to pay the driver.
Can I use my electronics in Lisbon?
Yes, you can use your electronics in Lisbon, but you will need an adapter if you’re coming from the US. The outlets in Portugal are either type C or type F, which is different from the outlets you use at home.
Another thing to consider is the voltage. US electronics run on 110-120 volts, while Portugal (and the rest of Europe) uses 220-240 volts. Small electronics, like cell phones, tablets, and laptop chargers, can be used without the need for a converter.
Larger items, like hair styling tools, probably won’t work. And there’s a chance they could break or blow out the converter, so it’s best to leave those types of electronics at home.
Is a visa needed to visit Lisbon?
If you are a US citizen, you do not need a visa to travel to Lisbon. You will be able to enter Portugal and other countries in the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days.
However, there will be some slight changes to this process when the EU rolls out the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) program in 2025. This will require citizens from visa-exempt countries (like the US) to apply for pre-authorization before being allowed to enter the Schengen Area.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit Lisbon?
Lisbon offers a wide range of attractions with a Mediterranean climate, making it an excellent year-round destination. However, we prefer to travel during the shoulder seasons, March and September to October, as they tend to be cheaper and less busy (although Lisbon is generally pretty crowded throughout the year).
Summers are sunny and dry, but they can be quite warm into the mid-80s (Fahrenheit). As it’s peak summer vacation season, things are likely to be very busy, which drives up the cost of flights and hotels. Winters in Lisbon are mild and rarely dip below 50 degrees, so it’s still possible to spend some time outside. But we prefer it when things are a little warmer and sunnier so we can make the most of all the activities the city has to offer.
Spring is a good time to go because it’s warm (anywhere from the mid-60s to mid-70s) yet before the busy summer season.
Fall is also a quieter time, and days can be in the mid to upper 70s. However, this is also the rainy season for Lisbon, with November being the wettest month of the year.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Lisbon?
Ideally, you should plan to stay at least 4 days in Lisbon. This will give you time to hit the major sites and get a good feel of the different areas and neighborhoods in the city.
But if you have the time, we recommend staying for a full week. This will allow you to enjoy the city at a more relaxed pace and give you time to go on a day trip to either Sintra or Cascais.
Is Lisbon Expensive to Visit?
Compared to many big cities in the US and Western Europe, Lisbon is relatively affordable. However, things are slowly changing as more and more tourists come to visit. While prices are more expensive than they were several years ago, we still wouldn’t consider Lisbon an expensive destination.
Getting to Lisbon
If you’re flying into Lisbon, you’ll likely arrive at the Lisbon International Airport (LIS), formally known as the Humberto Delgado Airport, which is located just 4 miles north of the city center. From there, you’ll have several different options to get into the city.
Metro from the Airport to Lisbon
The cheapest way to get from the airport to the city center is by metro. While there is a direct train into Lisbon, you’ll likely need to transfer if your hotel is in one of the touristy areas like Alfama, Baixo, or Chiado.
From the airport, you’ll take the red line and transfer to the green line at the Almeda station or the blue line at São Sebastião. The metro is quite easy to navigate as everything is clearly labeled!
A ticket costs 1,80€ for unlimited rides on the metro for 60 minutes. You can use your contactless card, purchase a day pass, or buy a Navagante card (a top-up card for occasional use), which reduces the fair price to 1,61€.
Taxi from the Airport to Lisbon
Taxis can be quite expensive in Lisbon, with a trip from the airport costing anywhere from 15€ to 25€ (rides are metered). However, it is very fast and efficient, usually taking 20 to 30 minutes. A taxi is also a good option if you’re staying in an area that isn’t easily served by the metro.
Ride Share from the Airport to Lisbon
Apps like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Lisbon and are generally cheaper than taxis. And because you get the price upfront, you won’t have to worry about getting ripped off.
Getting Around Lisbon
Despite all the cobblestone alleys and steep hills (it’s called the city of Seven Hills for a reason!), Lisbon is relatively easy to get around. There’s an underground metro, a network of buses, funiculars, and, of course, the iconic yellow trams!
Here are some helpful tips for getting around Lisbon:
- Download the CityMapper app: This is a fantastic app that shows you all the different transportation options for your journey, along with real-time arrival info.
- Opt for a day pass: For just 6,80€, you can ride the metro, trams, buses, and funiculars as much as you want for 24 hours. You can also purchase a Navagante card (0,50€ upfront), which is a top-up card that you can preload money onto. It’s a better option if you are using public transportation occasionally for multiple days.
- The metro takes contactless payment: Bank cards are accepted for the metro, but all other forms of transportation require cash or the Navagante card.
- Take a ride on Tram 28E: The route winds through the historic center and takes you past numerous sights, making it an affordable and fun way to see the city. If you do not have a Navagante card, you will need to pay 3€ cash to the driver when you board.
- Bring a comfy pair of shoes if walking: The hills can be steep, but exploring the different areas and neighborhoods on foot is the best way to get a feel for the city!
- Cross the Tagus by boat: If you want to go on the other side of the river, you can take the 10-minute Transtejo ferry from Cais do Sodré to Montijo, Seixal, and Cacilhas.
Where to Stay in Lisbon
There are lots of unique Bairros (neighborhoods) in the city, but we recommend staying in central Lisbon, close to the main tourist sights. Here are some good neighborhoods to choose from in the city center, as well as a few more for off-the-beaten-track options.
Baixa
Considered to be the historic heart and commercial center of the city, Baixa is arguably the most crowded part of Lisbon. Although it can be touristy, the streets are wide, flat, and lined with gorgeous buildings, and there’s always something happening on every block. And with Alfama to the east and Bairro Alto to the west, it’s centrally located next to many of Lisbon’s main sights and attractions.
Here are some popular things to do in Baixa:
- Enjoy the views from atop the Arco da Rua Augusta or grab a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants on Praça do Comércio.
- Take the St Justa Lift to the observation deck on top.
- Go shopping and see street performers on Rue Augusta.
If you want to stay in Baixa, check out the Hotel de Baixa or Villa Baixa for luxury apartments.
Alfama
Alfama is the oldest and arguably most picturesque neighborhood in Lisbon. It’s located at the foot of St Geroge Castle and is famous for its winding alleys, small squares, and charming architecture. There’s a certain old-world charm about Alfama, although it has now become quite the fashionable and artistic area.
While you’re here, you can:
- Visit the ancient St George Castle
- Listen to traditional Fado music at one of the many bars or restaurants (Fado originated right here in Alfama).
- See the Lisbon Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the entire city.
- Take a walking tour of Alfama
If you’re looking to stay in the Alfama, check out the Aurea Museum Hotel.
Bairro Alto
If you’re looking for the best nightlife in Lisbon, you’ll likely find what you’re looking for in Bairro Alto. It is located on the hill to the west of Baixa and is primarily a residential neighborhood. And while there’s not much going on here during the day, it can be quite loud and rambunctious at night. Fado bars, sports pubs, nightclubs, cocktail lounges – you name it, Bairro Alto has it.
Besides enjoying the nightlife, there are a few other attractions worth visiting, like:
- The São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint for stunning city views.
- The Santa Catarina viewpoint for sunset (it has a terrace facing the port)
- The Bica Funicular, which takes you from Bairro Alto to Cais do Sodré
Chiado
Although it’s technically part of Baixa, Chiada is the more cosmopolitan part of the neighborhood. Here, you’ll find historic and modern commercial establishments with lots of bookstores, retail shops, museums, cafes, and Michelin-star restaurants. While there are loads of tourists here, it’s also popular with locals as its the primary shopping area in Lisbon (especially along Rue Garrett).
Some of the best activities in Chiado include:
- Shopping, of course! Check out the Armazens do Chiado mall, Café A Brasileira, and Bertrand Bookstore (the oldest bookstore in the world)
- Visit the Carmo Convent to see the ruins of a Gothic church that collapsed during the 1755 earthquake.
- Head to the Chiado Museum to enjoy Portuguese romantic, naturalist, modern, and contemporary art.
Cais do Sodré
Despite its rough and seedy history, Cais do Sodré is now one of the more bustling neighborhoods of Lisbon (mainly due to all the lively bars and nightclubs). But if you’re here during the day, the best thing to do is head to the waterfront or to one of the little parks. There aren’t too many big tourist attractions here, but it’s still worth visiting for the markets, water views, and trendy nightlife scene.
Don’t miss:
- Grabbing a late lunch or early dinner at the Time Out Market (although it can be expensive and touristy). You can also stroll through the Mercado da Ribeira to get a taste of daily Portuguese life
- Bar hopping on Pink Street
- Strolling through Jardim Dom Luis, our favorite park in the entire city.
Principe Real
This is one of the more upscale neighborhoods in the city. Located on the west side of the historic center north of Chaido and Bairro Alto, Principe Real is lined with 19th-century mansions, picturesque gardens, and designer boutiques. Very few tourists make it up here, which is a shame because it’s a really beautiful area! But on the plus side, it’s a great place to see local life and get out of the main bustle of Lisbon.
Some of the best things to do in Principe Real include:
- Wandering through the Jardim Botanico de Lisboa, a huge botanical garden with ponds, walking trails, playgrounds, and kiosks.
- Seeing the massive banyan trees in the Principe Real Garden.
- Taking the number 24 tram (it’s a classic remodelado tram) from Chaido up to Principe Real.
For a hotel, try 1896 Principe Real for a boutique stay.
Avenue of Liberty
To the north of Bairro Alto sits the Avenue of Liberty, a ritzy, tree-lined avenue modeled after the Champs Elysees. This is a very high-end neighborhood with lots of boutique hotels, designer shops, and world-class museums. It’s also the embassy area, which adds a cosmopolitan flair to the area. It’s also a good place for an afternoon stroll, although we recommend taking the metro up here so you don’t wear yourself out before.
Along the Avenue of Liberty, there are some activities you won’t want to miss, including:
- Visiting Edward the VII Park, the largest park in central Lisbon.
- Seeing the Praça dos Restauradores square and taking a ride on the Gloria Funicular nearby.
- Exploring one of the many museums, including the Sociedade Nacional de Belas Artes (art museum), Medeiros and Almeida Museum (antique museum), or the Cinemateca Portuguesa Cinema Museum (cinema museum)
In this luxurious neighborhood you’ll find luxury staying at One Palácio da Anunciada.
Estrela
To the left of the historic city center, you’ll find the quaint residential neighborhood of Estrela. It has a very peaceful atmosphere that attracts families and visitors looking to explore the quieter side of Lisbon. And because it runs up the river, you can enjoy beautiful water views from the many different terraces and viewpoints.
The best activities in Estrela include:
- Going into the Basilica of Estrela to see the 500-figure nativity scene made out of cork and terra cotta.
- Strolling through Jardim da Estrela, an English-style garden with duck ponds and cute cafes.
- Grabbing lunch at Mercado de Campo de Ourique.
Belem
Although it’s a bit further outside of the main part of Lisbon (it’s a 20-minute drive, although you can also take the tram, train, or bus), Belem is a neighborhood that should be on your itinerary. It was here that Vasco da Gama set sail for India in 1497, so there was a strong sense of pride amongst the locals.
You could easily spend the whole day wandering through the tree-lined plazas, walking along the river, or visiting one of the many different museums in town.
Some of our favorite things to do in Belem include:
- Visiting the Jeronimo Monastery to see Vasco da Gama’s tomb
- Walking to the water to see the 16th-century Belém Tower
- Take a sunset sailing cruise
- Take a walking tour of Belem
For a hotel, definitely check out the Wine and Books hotel. It’s up a hill, but worth the hike.
Free Download!
CHEAT SHEETS: LONDON, PARIS, LISBON, & ROME
Use one or use them all! Sign up & we’ll send you our cheat sheets for all 4 cities.
Get a jumpstart on your planning with an overview of each city: when to go, where to stay, can’t miss activities, and how to get around.
Things to Do in Lisbon: Classic Experiences
Lisbon has no shortage of fun things to do, but there are a few experiences you have to put on your itinerary. A Lisbon Travel Guide would not be complete without sharing some of our favorite things to do in Lisbon.
Lisbon Travel Guide Video: Skip the Lines!
We don’t like waiting in lines, especially in the Lisbon heat. Watch our video for tips on skipping the lines in Lisbon at the most popular attractions. These tricks, techniques, and entrance times worked for us!
Ride the Tram
As we mentioned earlier, the 28E tram is a popular tourist route that takes you past some important landmarks in the city. Not only does it head into the heart of the historic district, but it also takes you past the Lisbon Cathedral, the Time Out Market, and the St George Castle.
As the most popular sightseeing tram for tourists, it can get very busy. We recommend hopping on at one of the departure stations (Martim Moniz or Campo Orique) if you want to guarantee a seat.
Ride the Santa Justa Elevator
The 19th-century Santa Justa Elevator is one of the best places for sweeping city views. While it was originally built as a form of public transportation to take people up the steep hill, it’s now a popular tourist attraction thanks to the beautiful architecture and panoramic observation deck. A ticket to ride the elevator costs 5,30€, although you can always walk up the hill and walk along the viewing platform for free.
Explore St George Castle
As one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, St George Castle sits atop the highest hill in the city. The castle was originally constructed by the Moors in the 11th century and was later used as a royal residence for Portuguese Kings and Queens. The views from here are breathtaking, but inside the fortress walls, you’ll find centuries’ worth of artifacts as well as a flock of feathered peacocks!
Take a Walking Tour
Explore Lisbon like a true local by booking a walking tour during you visit. This is a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the city and to see some unique places that you might have otherwise missed.
Best of all, there are lots of companies that offer free or pay-as-you-wish walking tours. Two of the most well-known ones are Discover Lisbon and Guru Walk.
Take a Tagus Boat Tour
On a nice day, there’s nothing more relaxing than cruising down the Tagus River. While there are ferries that take you back and forth between Lisbon and Almada, the ride is short and doesn’t give you a chance to appreciate the scenery. Instead, we recommend booking a boat tour. We took one from Belem, but there are lots of other options departing from the center of town near Praça do Comércio.
Go on a Tuk Tuk Tour
If you’re looking for a fun and unique activity, this is it! Tuk tuks are really popular in Lisbon as they can zip down the narrow streets and up the hills with ease. And since you’ll be going with a guide, you’ll get loads of insightful facts and tidbits about different sights in the city. You can book a 1- or 2-hour tour, but they are so fun we recommend going for the half-day option!
Visit Jeronimo Monastery
Belem is a picturesque district roughly 5 miles to the west of downtown Lisbon. It’s worth coming here for a few hours, especially to see the Jeronimo Monastery. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the resting place of Vasco da Gama, the first explorer to sail from Europe to Africa. But besides the tomb, the monastery is an impressive structure known for its Manueline (Gothic Portuguese) architecture.
Take a Day Trip to Sintra
Sintra is easily the most popular day trip for those visiting Lisbon. Nestled on the hills of the Sierra de Sintra, this UNESCO-designated town boasts a handful of royal palaces, villas, and castles. The three main sights include the medieval Castle of the Moors, the romanticist Pena National Palace, and the Manueline Quinta de Regaleira. From Rossio Station, it’s just a direct 40-minute train ride away, so it’s possible to go and be back in time for dinner.
Grab a Drink from a Quiosque and Sit in the Park
This is one of our favorite local experiences in Lisbon. While you’re here, you’ll likely see these little stand-alone gazebos dotted through the city’s parks and squares. These are kiosks (or, as the Portuguese say, quiosque). They serve coffee, beer, wine, and cocktails, while some of them offer snacks or light meals as well.
Where to Eat in Lisbon
Portuguese food may not be as well known as other destinations in Europe, which is surprising because we had some excellent meals here! But as an international city, you’ll find lots of different food options here, ranging from cheap (and delicious) to upscale.
Here are some places we particularly enjoyed:
- Bonjardim: Piri Piri Chicken is a very popular dish in Portugal, and Bonjardim is one of the best places to try it! The portions are huge, and the restaurant itself is quite cute and charming.
- O Frade: This small, family-run restaurant in Belem serves traditional Portuguese dishes from the Alentejo region. It’s a bit on the pricier end, but a nice treat for lunch or dinner.
- Time Out Market: Lisbon has some excellent food markets, with Time Out being the most popular. Located right by the waterfront, this market has a huge choice of different food options inside, along with several bars, bakeries, and pastry shops.
- LX Factory: LX Factory is a really cool industrial art center 2.5 miles out of the city center. There are some good restaurants and bars here, but come on Sunday for the LX Farmer’s Market for fresh produce and delicious local goods!
- Cervejaria Ramiro: One of the best places in the city for fresh seafood. Crabs, prawns, lobster, crab, oysters – they have it all! Just make sure to make a reservation because this place can get busy.
- Solar dos Presuntos: This is an excellent restaurant for special occasions. They serve a variety of meat and fish dishes family-style, so it’s perfect for sharing!
- Frade Dos Mares: A great, contemporary restaurant for seafood. Octopus is the main star of the menu, although they also have a wide array of vegetarian and meat options (plus a kids menu!).
- O Trevo: This little snack bar on the corner of the busy Praça Luís de Camões square serves the best pork bifana sandwiches in the city. They’re cheap, filling, and worth the wait (because there is always a line). Cash only.
- Heim Cafe: For breakfast or brunch, grab a table at Heim Cafe. It’s a bit off the main tourist track, but they whip up some of the best waffles and French toast in the city!
- Pasteis De Belem: Pasteis De Belem has been making pastel de nata (Portuguese egg tarts) since 1837. It’s definitely worth the trip over to Belem just for these!
Keep in mind that most restaurants don’t open for dinner until 7 PM, so make sure you have a late lunch if you think you’ll be hungry before then!
Heading Out of Lisbon
If you’re lucky enough to have a few extra days to spend in Portugal, then there are some excellent destinations that are easy to reach from Lisbon.
Sintra
If you could only take one-day trip from Lisbon, make it to Sintra. With so many fascinating palaces, villas, and castles just a 40-minute train ride away, it’s really worth planning a trip there. While you might not be able to tick everything off in just one day, make sure you at least get to visit the Castle of the Moors, Pena National Palace, and the Quinta de Regaleir.
Cascais
With sandy beaches, a historic old center, and a plethora of gourmet restaurants, the coastal town of Cascais is a great place to spend the day. It’s a popular resort area for locals, although you don’t have to come in summer to enjoy the different sights and attractions. And it’s just a quick 40-minute train ride away, so it’s a good option for a day trip.
Porto
If you want to see another part of Portugal, then the beautiful city of Porto can be reached in three hours by train. Plan on spending the night here, so you have ample time to explore the city and the numerous port houses that are along Duoro River.
Free Download!
CHEAT SHEETS: LONDON, PARIS, LISBON, & ROME
Use one or use them all! Sign up & we’ll send you our cheat sheets for all 4 cities.
Get a jumpstart on your planning with an overview of each city: when to go, where to stay, can’t miss activities, and how to get around.
Explore more popular European cities:
Paris Travel Guide
London Travel Guide
