Lisbon, Portugal is where history, culture, and stunning landscapes blend seamlessly to create an unforgettable travel experience. As you embark on your journey through the capital of Portugal, you’ll uncover charming cobblestone streets, vibrant neighborhoods exquisite cuisine and a rich heritage. 

Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore ancient monuments and majestic castles or a foodie craving a taste of Portugal’s renowned pastel de nata, this ultimate travel companion will guide you through the must-see landmarks and few lesser-known surprises in Lisbon. 

Get ready to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this vibrant city as we unveil the secrets that make Lisbon so unique.

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LISBON TRAVEL GUIDE

Praco do Comercio

Top Attractions

Praco do Comercio

Lisbon is a treasure trove of attractions that will leave you in awe. Begin your exploration at the Praco do Comercio, a grand square that was the site of the Royal Palace and the entry point for explorers during the Age of Discoveries. Its magnificent archway, charming cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views of the Tagus River create a truly magical atmosphere. 

Rua Augusta

Walk under the arch at the top of the square onto Rua Augusta, a bustling pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and lively street performers. The energy of this area is contagious, making it impossible to resist the charm of this city.

Walking Tour

I recommend taking a walking tour from Praco do Comercio for a good overview of the city. We like Rick Steves’ audio guide. You can download it here. It is very informative, and it’s free! We use his guides in lots of European cities. There are many other tours as well. Click here if you’d like help booking one.

São Jorge Castle

Belém Tower

The Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, once served as a fortress to protect the city. It stands proudly on the banks of the Tagus River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Its stunning architecture and intricate details transport you back in time, making you feel like a part of the incredible history it holds.

Monument to the Discoveries

The Monument to the Discoveries, is an awe-inspiring tribute to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. This striking monument features larger-than-life statues of famous explorers, reminding us of their courage and determination.

Jerónimos Monastery

A visit to Lisbon wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the grandeur of the Jerónimos Monastery. This architectural masterpiece showcases the intricate Manueline style and is a testament to the country’s rich maritime history. 

Church of Saint Anthony

The Church of Saint Anthony is dedicated to the saint known as a matchmaker and patron saint for the recovery of lost items. The stunning architecture and intricate details will leave you with a sense of both awe and tranquility.

Lisbon Cathedral

Carmo Convent

The Carmo Convent ruins are hauntingly beautiful with open-air arches and age-old character. Destroyed by the earthquake of 1755 that ravaged most of the city, it now stands as a reminder of that devastating day.

Avenida da Liberdade

Take a stroll along the lively Avenida da Liberdade, a street known for its luxury shops and beautiful gardens, and soak in the city’s cosmopolitan vibe. 

LX Factory

Chiado neighborhood

Lisbon is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. Each of the neighborhoods listed below is a good area to stay in to easily tour the city.

Baixa

Start your neighborhood exploration in Baixa, the heart of the city. Here, you’ll find wide boulevards, elegant squares, and grand buildings that reflect the city’s rich history. Take a stroll along Rua Augusta, the main pedestrian street, lined with shops, cafes, and street performers.

Chiado

Then head up to Chiado, known as Lisbon’s cultural quarter, where you can explore bookstores, art galleries, and theaters. Don’t miss a visit to the iconic Café A Brasileira, a historic café that has attracted famous intellectuals and artists throughout the years. 

Bairro Alto

For a bohemian atmosphere, head to Bairro Alto, where narrow streets come alive at night with bars, clubs, and Fado houses. This neighborhood is the perfect place to experience the soulful melodies of Portugal’s traditional music (called Fado). 

Alfama

Immerse yourself in local life in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. Wander through its narrow streets, listen to the sounds of Fado echoing from local taverns, and discover hidden plazas that offer stunning views of the city.

Alcântara

If you’re looking for a trendy and artistic vibe visit Alcântara. This is where the LX Factory is located and where you can explore unique shops, art galleries, and enjoy a meal in one of the hip restaurants housed in the converted warehouses. 

Principe Real

Principe Real is a modern neighborhood with unique and funky restaurants and bars and shopping.  It is more residential and less touristy and is easily accessed from the city center via Avenida da Liberdade.

Day Trips From Lisbon

Pena Palace in Sintra

While Lisbon itself offers a plethora of attractions, taking day trips to explore the surrounding areas is highly recommended. There are so many good ones, but here are just a few.

Sintra

My first recommendation is the charming village of Sintra, located just outside of Lisbon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to enchanting palaces, lush gardens, and mystical forests, offering a fairytale-like experience. You might recognize the Pena Palace if you like to peruse travel photos. It’s a colorful and whimsical palace perched high on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.  Also be sure to see the Castle of the Moors and the Quinta da Regaleira, the inverted tower.

Cascais

Just a short train ride away from Lisbon is the charming town of Cascais, known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque harbor, and elegant mansions. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, indulge in fresh seafood, or take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean. 

Évora

Another popular day trip destination is the historic town of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can explore its well-preserved Roman ruins, medieval streets, and visit the awe-inspiring Chapel of Bones. 

Setúbal

Venture to the beautiful coastal town of Setúbal, known for its stunning beaches and fresh seafood. You can take a boat trip to the nearby Arrábida Natural Park, where you can hike, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the tranquility of nature. 

The Algarve Region

Ponta da Piedade off of Lagos

Benagil Sea Caves

While it’s a little further out you absolutely must  lay your eyes on the Algarve Region in the southern part of the country. A 3-hour drive or 3-4 hour train ride, it is absolutely worth the journey. We rented a car and spent a day in Lagos and Portimao where we took a boat cruise to Ponta da Piedade and a speedboat tour to the Benagil Sea Caves. This stunning coastline is among the most beautiful landscapes we have seen in our travels!

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Local Cuisine

Bacalhoaria Silva, one of the oldest markets in Lisbon known for its salted codfish

Pasteis de Belem, the original bakery of the pasteis de nata

Pasteis de Nata 

No visit to Lisbon would be complete without indulging in its mouthwatering local cuisine. You have to try the famous pasteis de nata, a delicious custard tart with a crispy crust. These sweet treats can be found in bakeries throughout the city, but be sure to try the original ones from Pastéis de Belém, where the recipe has remained a secret for over a century. If you can get a warm one you will love it even more!

Lisbon is a seafood lover’s paradise. From grilled sardines to marinated octopus, the city offers a wide variety of fresh and flavorful seafood dishes. Be sure to try bacalhau, Portugal’s beloved salted codfish. This versatile ingredient can be prepared in countless ways, from traditional bacalhau à brás, a mix of codfish, eggs, and potatoes, to delicious codfish fritters. 

To truly immerse yourself in the local food scene, visit one of Lisbon’s vibrant food markets, such as Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market) or Mercado de Campo de Ourique. Here, you can sample a wide range of traditional dishes, from hearty stews to regional cheeses and cured meats. 

Where to Stay

Succeed Terreiro do Paço Suites

Lisbon offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the historic charm of the city, consider staying in the Baixa, Chiado, or Alfama neighborhoods. These are great locations for exploring.  You’ll find a variety of boutique hotels and guesthouses housed in beautifully restored buildings. 

For a more luxurious experience, head to the Avenida da Liberdade area, where you’ll find upscale hotels with top-notch amenities. 

If you prefer a trendy and artistic atmosphere, consider staying in the Bairro Alto or Alcântara neighborhoods. These areas are home to stylish boutique hotels and hip guesthouses that cater to the creative crowd. 

For a beach getaway, Cascais is a great option located just outside of Lisbon. This charming coastal town offers a range of hotels and resorts with stunning ocean views. 

Lastly, if you’re on a budget, the Príncipe Real and Graça neighborhoods offer a variety of budget-friendly accommodations, including hostels and guesthouses. 

We stayed at the Succeed Terreiro do Paço Suites, pictured above. It is in a great location, just a 4-minute walk to Praco do Comercio! The rooms are small but are very nice and have an air conditioner.

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Transportation

We walked to most places around the city, but when exploring the city on foot, be prepared for the hilly terrain and wear comfortable shoes. Lisbon’s cobblestone streets can be challenging to navigate but are oh so charming.

There were a few times when we needed to go from one side of the city to the other, so we took an Uber. That was the easiest, and since their rates are really cheap it was a no-brainer.

The city is well-served by an efficient public transportation system including buses, trams, and metro lines, making it convenient to explore different neighborhoods and attractions. The metro is a fast and reliable option, with four lines that cover most of the city. 

Trams are a popular mode of transport here, particularly Tram 28, which takes you on a scenic route through Lisbon’s historic districts. You can also hop on a tuk-tuk for a fun and unique experience!

Currency

The national currency in Portugal is the euro (€).  Click here to get the daily conversion.