28 Best Things to Do in Lisbon

👉 Jump to: Best Things | Historic Attractions & Museums | Food & Drinks | Neighborhoods & Day Trips | Family-Friendly

Lisbon is the type of place where you can truly choose your own adventure. As the capital of Portugal, there is truly a bounty of things to do and awesome places to stay. 

Within this coastal city, you’ll discover impressive European historic sites, a killer food scene, and stunning neighborhoods. Plus, there are equally enticing destinations nearby that can be easily accessed from Lisbon. 

As a tourist though, it can be tough to decipher which attractions and hidden gems are actually worth your time. Luckily, I’m here to help you navigate the slightly overwhelming array of things to do in Lisbon. 

I traveled around Portugal for over a month and a huge chunk of my time was spent getting to know Lisbon. Combining my knowledge with talented Travel Lemming writers Nate, Clara, and Lea Rose, we’ve prepared the ultimate list of things to do in Lisbon.

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28 Best Things to Do in Lisbon

Belém Tower

Enter this 16th-century UNESCO-listed tower that’s one of Portugals’ most famous landmarks.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213)-620-034 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm Tue-Sun, Closed Mon | Entrance: €8, adults | 👉 Belém and Jerónimos Monastery Guided Small Group Walking Tour

You need to hit all the most popular Lisbon attractions right out of the gate if it’s your first time in the city. The 500-year-old Belém Tower is among the most famous (it also tops my list of things to do in Portugal!). Even if you’re a local who never carved out the time to check out this famous site, it’s definitely worth a visit. 

This historic tower located in Lisbon’s Belém district on the banks of the Tagus River has lived many different lives. It started as a fortification used to defend Portugal before becoming a lighthouse. Finally, it reached its current status as one of the country’s top UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

While you can get a glimpse of the architecture from the outside, the interior holds even more wonders. Such as the King’s Chamber and the stunning tower terrace. 

If you want to get to know the tower and surrounding neighborhood better, I’d recommend this Belém and Jerónimos Monastery Guided Small-Group Walking Tour. It’ll teach you all about this world-class site and many of the other attractions coming up next.

Jerónimos Monastery

Catch a glimpse of historic tombs, Portuguese architecture, and a maritime museum at this huge Gothic monastery.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213)-620-034 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm daily | Entrance: €10, adults | 👉 Belém and Jerónimos Monastery Guided Small-Group Walking Tour

Jerónimos Monastery is another must-see Lisbon attraction in the Belem district. Although it is a little outside of the city center, it’s obvious why this historic monastery still gets around a million visitors every year. 

You’ll get a huge kick out of Jerónimos if you’re a photographer with a thing for interesting architectural masterpieces like myself. It’s also an alluring attraction for history buffs who want to come face-to-face with old-school tombs. 

👉 Pro Tip: It’s easy to visit both Jerónimos Monastery and Belem Tower in the same afternoon since they’re both located in the Belem neighborhood.

LxFactory

A wonderland of art, restaurants, boutique shops, and bars located in the body of a 19th-century industrial factory.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 10:30 am – 10:30 pm Mon-Fri, 9 am – 10:30 pm Sat & Sun | Entrance: Free

One of my favorite activities in Lisbon was discovering the quirkier attractions and street art. Luckily, Lisbon has a lot to offer in that department, such as the undeniably cool LxFactory. 

LxFactory is the repurposed bones of an old production plant that have been given a new life as a venue/marketplace. You can run into this open-air market to grab a snack, lunch, or even drinks at night. 

There are a bunch of other things to see at LxFactory as well. You’ll come across bookstores, galleries, and art installations, along with a small in-house cinema, and tons of adorable shops with unique souvenirs. If you’re traveling alone through Lisbon, this can also be a terrific place to meet other people. 

Even if you just visit LxFactory to walk around, there is a lot to see. Just make sure you head up to the rooftop bars to catch the sun dipping down under the Tagus River at dusk. It’s the perfect way to transition from day-time exploration to evening adventures.

Jardim Botânico d’Ajuda

This beautiful botanic garden is perfect for a quick escape into nature or for snapping Insta-worthy photos.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: +35 121-365-3157 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Sun-Thu; 10 am – 6 pm Sat| Entrance: €2 

Lisbon is home to several amazing parks and botanical gardens, but Ajuda is one of the best hidden gems. You’ll find perfectly trimmed gardens with rows of hedges, plants imported from many of Portugal’s former colonies, and several gorgeous garden statues. It’s one of the best-kept secret photo spots in Lisbon.

To combine several top Lisbon attractions in one go, visit here then walk down the hill towards Jerónimos Monastery before ending your trip at the famous Belém Tower.

Santa Justa Lift

Ascend seven stories up one of the tallest hills in Lisbon to reach the loveliest views over the capital city.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (214)-138-679 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 10:45 pm daily | Entrance: €5.30 elevator ride, €1.50 viewpoint

The Santa Justa Elevator is technically a mode of public transport, but it also doubles as one of Lisbon’s most popular attractions. This iron elevator has been carrying people up and down from the Baixa neighborhood to Carmo Square for 120 years. It’s definitely the most fun way to get up to the higher streets of this Lisbon district. 

👉 Pro Tip: The Santa Justa Lift will take you right up to the square where Carmo Convent is located. So, you can kill two birds with one stone by taking this historic elevator. 

Lisbon Cathedral

Pay your respects at the oldest and most well-known places of religious worship in the city.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (218)-866-752 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 7 pm Mon-Sat, Closed Sun | Entrance: Free 

The Lisbon Cathedral is the oldest church in the city. It was originally built 875 years ago and has been reconstructed several times since then. Wrap your brain around that for a second to imagine just how much history you’re looking at when you step inside this cathedral. 

Despite its notoriety, the Lisbon Cathedral is actually free to enter. So, it’s a great option if you’re looking to save money on your trip. It’s also located near the coast and close to a bunch of cool restaurants, like Claras em Castelo and Casa Tradição.

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Capture a lofty perspective of downtown Lisbon at this 650-foot-high viewpoint.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (925)-217-044 | Hours: 24/7 daily | Entrance: Free 

If there’s a good viewpoint overlooking a city, you’ll find me there at least once. I think it’s one of the best ways to kick off a trip to a new place because it gives you a clear perspective on the area you’re about to dive into. When it comes to Lisbon, there is no better starting viewpoint than Miradouro de Santa Luzia. 

Located in the Alfama district, this viewpoint gives you a 360 perspective of downtown Lisbon and the Tagus River in the distance. Many people regard it as one of Lisbon’s most romantic locations. So, if you’re looking for a place to take a date in the city, this is it. 

Pink Street

Stroll along the distinctive pink walkway that signifies Lisbon’s most iconic street.

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 24/7 daily | Entrance: Free

When you look up ‘things to do in Lisbon’ one of the first things that pops up is Pink Street. While the street is definitely painted pink, it’s more well-weathered than most photos on the internet will lead you to believe.

Although it is a popular tourist street that’s a bit overhyped, it definitely has some redeemable qualities. Pink Street runs right through the center of Lisbon. It’s packed with restaurants and nightlife hotspots all within walking distance from the rosy walkway.

Some of the top bars to kick off an evening of partying are around Pink Street – including Pensão Amor and 4 Caravelas. Everyone in Lisbon should check out Pink Street at least once even though it’s more on the touristy side.

📚 Related Reading: If you visit Pink Street during the super hectic high season in the summer, you’ll be packed like sardines with tourists. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the fall or spring. To learn more about the seasonal norms for this beautiful country, check out my guide to the best time to visit Portugal. 

Praça do Comércio

Grab breakfast or just people-watch at this beautiful public square that’s constantly buzzing with activity.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: 24/7 daily | Entrance: Free 

Though there are several busy plazas throughout Lisbon, Praça do Comércio is by far the most well-known and heavily visited. This bright yellow town square has spectacular architecture and a few grand bronze statues like the King Joseph I Statue. 

Just walking around this city square is impressive enough, but the real treat comes in the form of its many upscale seafood restaurants. Such as Baía do Peixe and Tabuaria do Paço.

Historic Attractions & Museums

Castelo de S. Jorge

Head up to the highest hill around Lisbon to visit one of the oldest monuments in the country.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (218)-800-620 | Website  | Hours: 9 am – 6 pm daily (Nov-Feb), 9 am to 9 pm daily (March-Oct) | Entrance: €15 adults, Free under 12

It’s always interesting to be taken back in time at a historic attraction and the Castelo de S. Jorge in Lisbon does just that. This massive 11th-century royal palace can be seen overlooking Central Lisbon from the highest hill in the city. 

Its strategic location once allowed for maximum protection against enemy attacks. Today, it just provides visitors with breathtaking views over the entire city and the gorgeous coastline.

👉 Pro Tip: Even though Portugal is marketed as a summer-y heaven, it can get a bit brisk up at these high-elevation attractions. Make sure to put a light jacket on your Portugal packing list.  

Money Museum

Virtually mint your own coin, learn about the evolution of cash, and play games at this completely free museum.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213)-213-240 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm Wed-Sun, Closed Mon & Tue | Entrance: Free

It’s not every day that you find a museum that’s totally dedicated to money, yet doesn’t cost a dime. When you first hear about the Money Museum in Lisbon, the first thing you’re probably wondering is what that experience even entails. 

Well, there are a bunch of intricate displays and hands-on activities at this nifty little museum. You can make your own coin here or just peruse the history of currency in Portugal and around the world. Many of the exhibits are touch-friendly, so it’s one of the best museums in Portugal to visit with young children.

National Tile Museum

Follow the traditional Portuguese craft of decorative tiles through time from the 15th century to the modern era.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (218)-100-340 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm Tue-Sun, Closed Mon | Entrance: €8, adults

The National Tile Museum might not sound like one of the most exciting things to do. However, it’s an important attraction to visit to get in touch with one of Portugal’s most prized traditions – tile making. 

The art of crafting colorful tiles has been a staple of Portuguese culture for hundreds of years. The National Museum of Tiles will take you back through that rich history and how it evolved over time. Plus, the museum is very grand and filled with some of the most beautiful tilework in the whole country.

Carmo Convent

Snap photos at the roofless ruins of this convent that remains one of the most striking pieces of architecture in Portugal.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213)-460-473 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7 pm Mon-Sat, Closed Sun | Entrance: €7, adults, Free under 14 

As a traveler who always has a camera in her hand for travel photography, I get a rush of excitement when I discover a place like Carmo Convent. 

The Carmo Convent once stood as a massive Gothic Cathedral in the city center, but it was obliterated by a ruthless earthquake over 250 years ago. Today, the ghostly roofless ruins of the cathedral still remain. It’s one of the most haunting, yet gorgeous, attractions in all of Lisbon.

National Pantheon

Wander a monument that forever houses the tombs of Portugal’s most famed nobles and queens.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (218)-854-820 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm Tue-Sun, Closed Mon | Entrance: €10

If there is one place that might actually be haunted in Lisbon, it’s the National Pantheon. This structure used to be a church but was eventually turned into a very important monument. 

It’s where some of the most significant and well-respected Portuguese figures are buried. Inside, the tombs of people like the Prince Royal of Portugal and Queen Amélie of Orléans are safely tucked away where they can forever rest. 

Besides the important history, the building itself is just stunning much like a lot of the architecture in Lisbon.

Livraria Bertrand

Browse the literary selections at the oldest bookstore in the world with nearly 300 years under its belt.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (210)-305-590 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 10 pm daily | Entrance: Free 

I’m a sucker for a cool bookstore and this one has a pretty compelling hook. Livraria Bertrand is the oldest bookstore in the entire world. Seriously – this place has been passing on the gift of the written word since 1732. That’s the same year George Washington was born! 

Parque Eduardo VII

Explore the manicured hedge-lined grounds of Lisbon’s biggest park.

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 24/7 daily | Entrance: Free 

Parque Eduardo VII is an enormous public park with picturesque grounds that are kept cropped to perfection. It feels almost like walking around the garden of a royal palace with its manicured hedges neatly placed in rows. 

But unlike a regal attraction or castle, this park offers unlimited free access to pedestrians. Making it an excellent option for people looking to travel on a budget in Europe.

Food & Drinks

Time Out Market Lisbon

Munch on traditional Bacalhau, pastries, and everything in between at this bustling modern marketplace.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (210)-607-403 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 12 am daily | Entrance: Free

Feel your stomach rumbling after exploring Lisbon? Let’s step away from the many historical sites for a second and dive into the city’s culinary scene. 

You can find an eclectic range of food all under one roof at Time Out Market. On a group trip through Lisbon, this place will solve the issue of everyone wanting something different to eat. 

You could visit Time Out Market daily and still find a stall you didn’t notice before. There are traditional Portuguese specialties like francesinha and Bacalhau à Bras. Along with international offerings like sushi, burgers, pizza, and tacos.

Pastéis de Belém

Grace your tongue with the taste of a staple Portuguese dessert at one of the most famous pastry shops in Lisbon.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213)-637-423 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 10 pm daily | Entrance: Free

Who doesn’t love a local sweet treat to really get a feel for a new city? In Lisbon, the first dessert that everyone urges new visitors to try is the Pastel de Nata. These delicious little custard tarts are the city’s pride and joy. 

You can find this pastry all over the city center of Lisbon. However, I’d recommend venturing out to Pastéis de Belém to taste the very best ones in the city. It’s well worth the slight excursion.

This pastry shop is legendary for its Pastel de Nata (and loads of other baked goods, too). As someone who’s tried them from Pastéis de Belém and all over Lisbon, I can promise you that the hype is real. Just make sure you arrive early to beat the crowds at this popular bakery.

If you’re hungry for even more traditional Portuguese food, join this Undiscovered Lisbon Food & Wine Tour. It will put you on to all the most delectable local dishes and the best places to find them, including pastel de nata.

Cervejaria Ramiro

Indulge in Lisbon’s super fresh seafood at a restaurant that’s been around for over 60 years.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (218)-851-024 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 12 am Tue-Sat; 12 pm – 11 pm Sun; Closed Mon | Entrance: Free

With so many appealing options, it can be difficult to settle on a restaurant for dinner in Lisbon. Let me help you make at least one of those decisions – you absolutely must dine at Cervejaria Ramiro. 

This restaurant has been concocting some of the best seafood dishes in the city for over 60 years now. Since it’s located slightly outside the city center, Cervejaria Ramiro provides a more chill atmosphere for eating shellfish and sipping on Portuguese wine or beer.

Conserveira de Lisboa

Pick up a local specialty at this historic family-run cannery that’s been in the business since 1930.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (218)-864-009 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7 pm Mon-Sat, Closed Sun | Entrance: Free

Canned seafood is one of the most beloved specialties in Portugal. Americans might get a touch of culture shock out of this one, but it’s absolutely true. From sardines to anchovies, you’ll find an abundance of establishments and even vending machines selling canned goods. 

The best of them all, though, is Conserveira de Lisboa. Stacked around the walls of this quaint cannery are multi-colored tins with all different types of fish. Grabbing a can or two from this place is one of the most authentic souvenirs you can bring home from Portugal. 

Neighborhoods & Day Trips

Sintra

Take a day trip to explore 1,000-year-old castles at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Sintra Small Group Tour From Lisbon

If you only take one day trip from Lisbon, go to Sintra. It is just 30 minutes away from Lisbon’s center. You can get there by public transport, Uber, or by taking this highly-rated group tour.

Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several enchanting castles you can explore on foot (wear comfortable shoes!). Popular sites include Pena Palace, the National Palace of Sintra, the Moorish Castle, Monserrate Palace, and Quinta da Regaleira.

Bairro Alto Neighborhood

This neighborhood houses some of the city’s top dining establishments and most captivating nightlife.

📍 Google Maps | Entrance: Free | 👉 Browse Tours on Viator 

If you’re over the tourist attractions and ready to get a feel for the local life in Lisbon, the Bairro Alto neighborhood is for you. When I first arrived in Lisbon, my very kind Airbnb host gave us a single golden rule: go hang out in Bairro Alto. 

It’s the beating heart of Lisbon. The streets of Bairro Alto are painted with the city’s famously colorful street art. It offers some of the best places to eat Portuguese food in all of Lisbon like Taberna do Bairro alto and Rosa da Rua. 

There is a rich nightlife scene with bars around the area ranging from jazz clubs to Irish pubs. Plus, most of the city’s top sites are only a few blocks away. Just wandering around Bairro Alto will inevitably lead you to something fun in Lisbon. 

If you want to enhance the experience even more, sign on for this Half-Day Tuk Tuk Tour of Lisbon. That way you’ll have a knowledgeable guide to accompany you around Bairro Alto and many of the surrounding attractions.

Historic Alfama District

Soak up the Portuguese culture in this photogenic neighborhood vibrating with traditional Fado music.

📍 Google Maps | Hours: 24/7 daily | Entrance: Free | 👉 Browse Tours on Get Your Guide 

The historic neighborhood of Alfama is one of the oldest areas of Lisbon. This district was designated to be outside of the city walls when it originated around 700 years ago, but it’s considered to be a key part of Lisbon today. 

Here you’ll stroll across the classic cobblestone streets that most people think of when they imagine Portugal. Plus there are lots of beautiful spots for idyllic street photography. 

Along the hilly avenues, there are plenty of joints to enjoy local Fado music. If you’re there on a Tuesday or Saturday, don’t forget to go shopping at the Feira da Ladra outdoor flea market. Additionally, many of the city’s best attractions are located in the Alfama district. Including Castelo São Jorge, Miradouro Santa Luzia, and the Lisbon Cathedral. 

🛎️ Need a Hotel? Alfama is located right in the heart of the city, which is why it’s one of the best places to stay in Lisbon. There are a bunch of luxurious-feeling, yet affordable hotels around this area, too. Like the ultra-comfortable and centrally-located São Vicente Alfama Hotel. 

Porto

Take a 3-hour train ride up through the country to reach Portugal’s vibrant 2nd largest city. 

📍 Google Maps | Website | Entrance: Free

One of the best parts of visiting a compact country like Portugal is that it’s possible to experience many of its iconic destinations in a single trip. It’s even well within the realm of possibility to check out Porto for a day from Lisbon. 

Located about three hours north on the train, Porto is nestled on the shores of the Atlantic with the Douro River running right through it. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in all of Portugal. 

Here you’ll find the freshest seafood, multi-colored architecture, and photo-worthy attractions like the Porto Cathedral, the Chapel of Souls, and the Half Rabbit mural. If getting to Porto from Lisbon on your own sounds daunting, no worries! There are plenty of tours available that will do all the navigation for you, such as this Porto Private Tour from Lisbon. In addition to escorting you to the city’s top sites, it comes with a ride along the Douro in a traditional boat and a Port wine tasting at a local cellar.

Family-Friendly

Oceanário de Lisboa

Experience aquatic life and underwater forests at this kid-friendly attraction in Parque das Nações.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (218)-917-000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7 pm daily | Entrance: €25, adults, €15 aged 3 to 12, Free under 2

If you’re on a family vacation in Lisbon, it can be difficult to find activities that will keep everyone entertained. However, the Oceanário de Lisboa is a place that’s sure to make kids squeal with joy as they discover a whole new underwater world. Not to mention that it’s a pretty fun spot for adults, too.

This huge aquarium is actually the biggest of its kind in the entire country. It’s home to thousands of different aquatic animals from all over the globe. There are habitat exhibits with penguins, sea otters, fish, and more.

You can even opt to have a sleepover with the sharks and spend the night under the glow of the tanks if you’re really feeling the ocean experience.

Pavilion of Knowledge

Embark on a hands-on journey into the world of science at this interactive museum.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (218)-917-100 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm Mon-Fri; 10 am – 7 pm Sat & Sun | Entrance: €15 adults, €10 children, Free under 2

The Pavilion of Knowledge is an interactive Lisbon museum that’s fun for the whole family. It has a permanent collection of interesting exhibits dedicated to topics like movement, the ocean, and women in science. 

The hands-on activities inside this museum can keep kids and adults of all ages entertained for hours on end. It’s also possible to rent out areas for birthday parties throughout the year.

Telecabine Lisboa

Hop aboard this aerial lift and ride 100 feet above the Tagus River for comprehensive views of the city.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (218)-956-143 | Website | Hours: 10:30 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: €9.50 roundtrip, adults, €6.50 roundtrip aged 3 to 12 years

If a stationary viewpoint isn’t exciting enough for you, just grab a ride on the Telecabine Lisboa. This famous tram carries passengers along the river, all the way from Oceanário de Lisboa to the Feira Internacional de Lisboa convention center. 

A ride along the Telecabine only takes around 10 minutes to ride from end to end. Along the way, you’ll encounter some of the best views along the coastline. 

Principe Real Garden

Get lost in a pocket of nature at this thriving public garden that offers a variety of events throughout the year.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (912)-054-890 | Hours: 24/7 daily | Entrance: Free

One of my favorite things about Lisbon is that even though it has a municipal feel, it still offers tons of green spaces. One example is the magnificent Principe Real Garden about 20 minutes outside of the city center. 

This big garden is free to the public and has plenty of pleasant spots to chill out during the afternoon. Depending on the season, this park also has rotating events like the annual gay pride parade and weekend street markets.

👉 You Might Also Like: 60+ Things to Do in Porto

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You’re officially in the loop for all the must-see attractions in Lisbon! Let us know in the comments below which one you’ll be visiting first. If you’re planning on roaming the whole country, be sure to read my full 10-day Portugal itinerary next.

🖨️ Get a free, printable version of my Portugal itinerary here.

Editor’s Note: Nate Hake, Clara Kesseler, and Lea Rose Allbaugh contributed to this article.