20 fun and unique things to do in Lisbon
Lisbon was once known as The City of Spies. Ian Flemming was once stationed right on these cobbled streets. Beautiful parts of Portugal inspired him to write his first James Bond book.
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Lisbon Travel Guide
Lisbon, the sun-soaked Portuguese capital, is a playground where your adventurous spirit can find its groove. A dazzling blend of history and contemporary cool, Lisbon's streets are adorned with mosaic masterpieces, Gothic cathedrals, sleek modern structures, storied cafes, and cool hangouts that somehow harmonize perfectly with the cityscape. There are centuries-old landmarks like Jeronimos Monastery and Belem Tower to discover, and the city's old trams are as charming as they are iconic. In summer, the beaches beckon, the festivals are in full swing, and the city's vibrant energy reaches its peak.
The whole city will have your heart. Strolling through Baixa, the downtown district, the pastel buildings and cobblestones will make it skip a beat. Indulge in pastéis de nata, Portugal's renowned creamy custard tarts, and your heart and stomach will be happier than ever. Experience the magic and romance of a fado show with your partner — you'll fall in love all over again.
Love art and shopping? The LX Factory is your rabbit hole to quirky boutiques and fun pop-up galleries, while the Feira da Ladra flea market is a treasure trove for all things unique.
Use this guide to Lisbon as your jumping-off point for an incredible adventure.
Best places to visit in Lisbon: top attractions you don't want to miss
The Portuguese capital is brimming with heritage and boasts a picture-postcard skyline of domed churches and terracotta rooftops. Get ahead of your trip to Lisbon with our guide to the best places to visit, whether you're seeking out culture or hunting masterpieces at its brilliant art museums and galleries.
Insider guides
Best museums in Lisbon that are worth your time
Lisbon has had enough names for the most fastidious scholars. The city has centuries of history behind it, so the best museums in Lisbon have fascinating tales to tell.
Best art museums in Lisbon: discovering the city's artistic wonders
Lisbon is the perfect city for culture vultures looking for a mini break. Come for a summer getaway and spend your days riding historic trams, eating delicious local food, and admiring historic landmarks. The capital of Portugal packs a serious punch.
Explore off the beaten path with Lisbon's best hidden gems
Your trip to Lisbon will probably include visiting some of the city's famous landmarks and tasting its world-renowned cuisine. What should you do next? How about heading off the beaten path to discover some secret places in Lisbon?
Lisbon’s unmissable landmarks and historical sights
Unsurprisingly for a city so packed with history, Lisbon’s cobblestone streets are lined with fascinating landmarks. From symbols of medieval majesty to the riches of Portugal's Golden Age, at places like São Jorge Castle and Jeronimos Monastery, these historic landmarks paint a vivid picture of Portugal's past.
What to eat in Lisbon: 12 must-try local delights
You've had a long day of sightseeing, visiting all the famous landmarks in Lisbon. Now what? It's time to indulge in some food that everyone visiting Lisbon must eat. The food in Lisbon is sure to impress you, with incredibly fresh produce and spices from across the Portuguese Empire.
Epic things to do in Lisbon at night
Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, is a city that effortlessly marries historic charm with contemporary flair. Renowned for its architectural wonders, culinary delights, and captivating music scene, Lisbon is also a city that comes alive when the sun goes down.
10 Fun family-friendly activities in Lisbon
With all-day sunshine and cool breeze rolling in off the Atlantic, Lisbon is the perfect spot for your next summer vacation. The kids will love this European capital just as much as you, thanks to a huge number of family-friendly activities.
Insider Tips - Lisbon
What are your top tips for someone traveling to Lisbon?
- Prepare to walk a lot, but use trams or taxis for longer distances.
- Book skip-the-line tickets in advance when possible, especially in peak visitor season.
- Stay in a central location near Rossio Square, with all the most popular attractions within easy reach. There are many restaurants, hotels for various budgets, and good public transportation connections here.
- Plan an extra few days to take some day trips outside the city.
- Avoid the iconic Tram 28 during rush hour as it can be too crowded to enjoy.
What should I do on my first trip to Lisbon?
The historic Alfama district, with its labyrinth of narrow streets, traditional architecture, and a very cozy vibe is a good place to start your Lisbon trip. You'll also find some of Lisbon's best views here, and many local restaurants where you can enjoy Fado performances in the evenings. Other must-sees include the area around Praça do Comércio, Elevador de Santa Justa, and the historic Belém district with the beautiful 16th-century Jerónimos Monastery.