15 fun things to do in Lisbon that you shouldn’t miss

In the sun-kissed capital of Portugal, Lisbon, you’ll find a mix of history, culture, and adventure everywhere you go. Whether you're exploring as a couple, with kids, or alone, this coastal city has something to captivate everyone. From tile-making workshops to riding the Santa Justa Lift, unique things to do in Lisbon aren’t hard to find.

Imagine learning how to cook fresh pastel de nata, those deliciously creamy custard tarts, or experiencing the soulful sounds of Fado, Lisbon's signature musical genre, known for its expressiveness and soothing melancholia. This local guide reveals 15 fun things to do in Lisbon for an undeniably good time.

Fun things to do in Lisbon as a couple

1. Take a serene sailboat cruise to Belem

If it's romance you're seeking, you can't go wrong with a sailboat cruise to Belem on the Tagus River. Soak in Lisbon’s top landmarks from the water, like the St. Jorge Castel and the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge. Going at golden hour for sunset views adds an extra layer of romance that’s perfect for special occasions.

Insider tip:

Don’t forget to visit the Jeronimos Monastery and catch the sunset at Belem Tower while in Belem.

2. Discover Lisbon's fado roots

After the sun sets, Lisbon becomes a soulful city that's best expressed through fado. Fado, a UNESCO-recognized art form originating in the 1800s, tells stories of love and longing unique to Lisbon's cultural tapestry. Attending a live performance is an authentic way to connect with the city's heart and soul.

Highlights:

Make it a culturally immersive date night with dinner at a Portuguese restaurant and a fado show.

3. Meet Lisbon’s resident dolphins along the coast

Lisbon's coastal waters are home to diverse marine life, and a boat trip along the coast will bring you face-to-face with the resident dolphins. Common and bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen around Arrábida Natural Park, and the pristine waters of the Sado Estuary are especially known for their dolphin population.

Insider tip:

Morning tours often have calmer seas and better sightings.

4. Discover the palaces of Sintra

Sintra is one of the best places to visit in Lisbon; a solo adventure promises enchanting palaces and sprawling gardens. Sintra's fairytale-like landscapes and architecture are truly unlike anywhere else in the world, and walking through the beautiful gardens and royal mansions makes for a romantic date. Pena Palace, Palace of Monserrate, and Quinta da Regaleira are Sintra essentials that you shouldn’t miss.

Insider tip:

It’s best to spend at least one night in Sintra to not feel rushed and avoid the day-trip crowds.

Opening hours:

Most Sintra attractions are open 8:00 AM-7:00 PM, but each attraction has different hours.

5. Hunt for the best miradouros in the city

Lisbon’s best miradouros, aka viewpoints, are all around the city. Each viewpoint, like Miradouro de Santa Catarina and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, offers a unique perspective of the city. Make sure to add the historic Sao Jorge Castle to your list — it boasts one of the most breathtaking views in Lisbon.

Best time to go:

Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most magical views and romantic atmosphere.

Opening hours:

Most free viewpoints are open 24/7, but ticketed viewpoints might have specific opening hours.

Fun things to do in Lisbon with kids

6. Hop aboard a tuk-tuk

Peek outside at the busy streets of Lisbon, and you’re bound to see at least several quirky, colorful 3-wheeled vehicles zipping through traffic — those are tuk-tuks, and they’re an absolute blast to ride. Kids especially will love the unique experience of a tuk-tuk adventure through Lisbon’s narrow pathways and colorful neighborhoods.

Highlights:

The tuk-tuk's open-air design makes it a breeze to take in the sights and sounds of Lisbon.

7. Beach-hop between Lisbon’s white-sand paradises

Lisbon's coast offers many clean, safe beaches with calm waters, perfect for families traveling with children. Enjoy building sandcastles, swimming, and picnicking by the sea, with beachside cafés and ice cream stands within easy reach. The Carcavelos beach is especially great for kids, where they can take up surfing lessons, whereas the Cascais beaches are for more laid-back beach days

Highlights:

A convenient way to beach-hop in Lisbon is on a cruise – the views from the water are a bonus. However, to get to the Carcavelos and Cascais beach, you can easily hop on the train from Lisbon’s Cais do Sodre station.

8. Zip around the city in a traditional tram

Originating in the 1800s, Lisbon trams have become an iconic symbol of local life and a reminder of the city’s past. They’re a fun way to see the city’s historic sights while avoiding having to walk or drive the hilly terrain on your own. Tram 28 is the most popular, winding through must-visit districts like Alfama and Baixa.

Insider tip:

Avoid rush hour because many local residents use these trams for their commute, and be cautious of pick-pockets.

Opening hours:

Trams run from morning until night every day, but the hours might vary depending on the day and tram. Check the official tram timetable for specific hours.

Fun things to do in Lisbon on your own

9. Venture beneath sea level on a snorkeling tour

Dive underwater, and you’ll be met with Lisbon’s colorful marine life and hidden caves galore. Lisbon's Arrabida Natural Park protects a treasured marine ecosystem with superb snorkeling opportunities, while around Anicha Rock, you can find a diverse biome teaming with starfish, anemones, and crustaceans.

Highlights:

The crystal-clear waters around Lisbon provide excellent visibility for snorkeling.

10. Ride to the top of the Santa Justa Lift

For unobstructed vistas of Lisbon’s rooftops and landmarks, head to the top of the Santa Justa Lift, a striking Neo-Gothic elevator in the heart of the city. This architectural marvel designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, a student of Gustave Eiffel, is Libson’s last vertical street lift.

Highlights:

You’ll be able to see the Carmo Convent, Rossio Square, Lisbon Cathedral, and much more, so bring your good camera.

Address and opening hours:

R. de Santa Justa, 1150-060 Lisboa, Portugal. Open 7:30-9:00 PM every day from November-February and 7:00 AM-11:00 PM every day from March-October.

11. Surf's up in the South

Along with its sought-after Old-World architecture and lively nightlife, Lisbon is also a famous surfing destination. There’s a long history of surfing in Portugal, thanks to the country’s ample beaches and killer waves. The surf culture here is full of spirit, and the community is welcoming, so you’ll feel like part of the pack, even if you’re a solo traveler.

Insider tip:

Carcavelos and the beaches of Costa da Caprica are popular surfing spots.

12. Discover Lisbon’s unique tile-making heritage

Lisbon’s azulejos, Portuguese tiles, are the beautiful hand-painted squares that you’ll quickly notice adorn countless building facades, flower pots, and paths throughout the city. Whether you’re simply walking through the streets and appreciating these intricate tiles or joining a craft class to make your own, this is one piece of Portuguese heritage you shouldn’t skip.

Insider tip:

For a detailed look at the history of Portuguese tiles and workshops, visit the National Tile Museum.

Fun things to do in Lisbon for food and drinks

13. Join a pastel de nata cooking class

Pastel de nata originated in the monasteries of the 19th century, and today, it’s Portugal's finest dessert export. A cooking class is a fun way to learn about this beloved Lisbon sweet, and your reward is enjoying your creation afterward, toasty and fresh right out of the oven.

Highlights:

Learning from a local chef in Lisbon is a much richer experience than following an online recipe.

14. Savor the flavors of authentic Portuguese cuisine

You can’t experience Lisbon without tasting the flavors of Portuguese cuisine. Strolling through the city and letting the intoxicating scents of bacalhau (codfish) and bifana (Portuguese pork sandwich) lead you to your food stops is one way to do it, but a guided tasting tour is a perfect way to discover Lisbon’s best foods.

Highlights:

Make sure to try petiscos in Barrio Alto. These bite-sized treats served on plates meant for sharing are a core part of Barrio Alto culture.

15. Celebrate Arrabida's spectacular wine

Wine enthusiasts or those just looking for a scenic countryside escape should head to the Arrabida wine region. A wine day trip entails tasting exquisite Portuguese wines, exploring lush vineyards, and enjoying country views you won’t find in the city. Portugal is renowned for its diverse wine regions, with Lisbon offering unique microclimates that produce wines like the robust Moscatel.

Best time to go:

Spring and fall for pleasant weather and the greenest vineyards.

FAQ

What are some fun things to do in Lisbon at night?

Lisbon comes alive at night. Catch a live fado performance in a traditional tavern, or explore the bustling bars and clubs in Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré. For a more relaxed evening, take a moonlit stroll along the waterfront or visit a rooftop bar for panoramic city views.

Are there any fun day trips from Lisbon that I should consider?

Visit Sintra for its fairy-tale palaces, Cascais for charming seaside vibes, or Arrábida for scenic vineyards and wine tasting. The historic town of Évora gives a fascinating glimpse into Portugal’s past with its Roman temple and medieval architecture.

What are some popular festivals or events in Lisbon?

The Festas de Lisboa in June celebrates Santo António with street parties and parades, while the Lisbon Carnival in February features colorful parades and music. The NOS Alive music festival in July attracts top international bands, and the Christmas markets in December add a festive touch to the city. For New Year, Lisbon's locals celebrate with a performance of the Lisbon Metropolitan Orchestra.

What are some family-friendly fun activities to do in Lisbon?

Lisbon offers many family-friendly activities, such as riding Tram 28 through Lisbon’s neighborhoods or exploring the interactive exhibits at the Pavilhão do Conhecimento, a science museum perfect for kids. Families can also enjoy a day at the white-sand beaches of Carcavelos and Cascais.

What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Lisbon?

Lisbon's mild climate and scenic landscapes make it perfect for outdoor activities. Relax in parks like Eduardo VII Park and Monsanto Forest Park, which are ideal for leisurely walks and picnics. For more adventure, try surfing at Lisbon’s beaches, hiking in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, or taking a boat trip along the Tagus River.