15 must-see attractions and activities in Lisbon

Are you planning a trip to the enchanting capital of Portugal and feeling overwhelmed about where to start your adventure? Look no further! In this article, we'll guide you through the top things to see and do in Lisbon, highlighting must-visit places and essential activities in one of the most captivating cities in Europe. Get ready to fall in love with Lisbon!

Nestled among seven rolling hills overlooking the majestic Tagus River, Lisbon is a vibrant city bursting with life. Its lively squares are the perfect blend of locals and tourists, while vintage trams glide gracefully through the streets. If you’re seeking a destination that boasts beautiful weather, delicious cuisine, and an abundance of attractions, Lisbon should be at the top of your list. Plus, it’s relatively budget-friendly and just a short flight away.

During my first visit, which was work-related, I managed to sneak away to explore the city’s heart, wander through the Bairro Alto, and indulge in a few pastéis de Belém. Luckily, I returned a few years later with more time to fully immerse myself in all its wonders.

So, are you ready to discover the main tourist attractions and hidden gems to see in Lisbon? Let’s dive in!

A glimpse into Lisbon's rich history

Before we delve into the must-see attractions, let's take a moment to explore a brief history of this fascinating city. Lisbon was founded by the Phoenicians in the 6th century BC, and over the centuries, it has been shaped by various cultures, including Roman, Visigothic, Muslim, and Christian influences. In the 12th century, the city was reclaimed by Christian forces, marking the beginning of the Reconquista. During the Age of Discoveries in the 15th century, Lisbon played a pivotal role in Portugal's maritime expeditions. The city endured a devastating earthquake in 1755, followed by Napoleonic occupation and ultimately the Carnation Revolution in 1974.

To truly appreciate what Lisbon has to offer, we recommend spending at least three days in the city, as there are countless activities and several interesting day trips to take.

Ready to uncover all the exciting things to see and do in Lisbon? Let’s get started!

1. Explore the majestic São Jorge Castle

The Castelo de São Jorge is a highlight of Lisbon that simply cannot be missed. Perched atop the city's highest hill, this castle has witnessed centuries of history. Originally built in the 5th century, it was later renovated by the Moors in the 9th century, leaving a unique blend of architectural styles.

In addition to its walls, towers, and charming courtyard, the real draw here is the breathtaking views: you’ll find Lisbon sprawling beneath you, with the Tagus River shimmering in the distance—a picture-perfect sight that makes this one of the best viewpoints in the city. Be sure to mark it on your map as a must-visit location.

→ Admission is €15. It's advisable to purchase tickets in advance on the official website, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.

2. Ride the Santa Justa Lift

Don't miss the chance to ascend the Santa Justa Lift, a neo-Gothic elevator that connects the Baixa district with Chiado. From the top, you'll be treated to unforgettable views of the city at a height of 45 meters. Tickets for the lift and viewing platform cost around €5 (free with the Lisbon Card).

With the Lisbon Card, you can enjoy free entries and discounts at many tourist sites, museums, and attractions across the city. Be sure to crunch the numbers to see if it’s worth it for you!

→ Pro tip for a free view: head to Rua do Carmo 29, where you can climb a set of stairs to a terrace near the Convento do Carmo. From there, you’ll find stunning vistas that may even rival those from the lift—completely free!

3. Discover the unique neighborhoods of Lisbon

As soon as you set foot in Lisbon, you’ll realize that it’s a patchwork of neighborhoods, each with its own vibe, history, and charm. Some areas evoke nostalgia, while others resonate with the sounds of fado, filled with street art, endless stairs, and cozy cafes where you can lose track of time. Moving from one neighborhood to another feels like stepping into a different world: from the modern hustle and bustle of Baixa to the bohemian atmosphere of Bairro Alto and the Moorish spirit of Alfama.

Here are the neighborhoods you absolutely cannot miss:

— Baixa and Chiado

If Lisbon had a commercial and elegant heart, it would undoubtedly be Baixa. This neighborhood is perfect for leisurely strolls along wide avenues, charming shops, and delightful pastry shops. In contrast, Chiado is the city’s bohemian enclave, often compared to Montmartre. Explore its streets, browse through its bookstores and cafes, and savor a chilled muscatel, vinho verde, or a delicious ginjinha in one of its lively establishments.

— Alfama

Alfama is the most ancient soul of Lisbon, where narrow cobblestone streets, laundry hanging from windows, and the sounds of fado define the atmosphere. This neighborhood seems to have paused in time, and wandering through its alleyways is an experience in itself. Be sure to enjoy an evening of fado music or hike up to São Jorge Castle for panoramic views—take your time and soak it all in.

— Mouraria

The Mouraria neighborhood is steeped in history, tradition, and multicultural vibes. This was the area inhabited by Arabs for centuries, and remnants of their influence can still be seen today. It’s almost mandatory to catch a fado show in a traditional tasquinha here.

If you’re not familiar with fado, it’s the soul-stirring, melancholic music that is quintessentially Portuguese. Its melodies transport you to beautiful, forgotten memories, evoking lost loves and distant places—you won’t leave unchanged.

— Bairro Alto

One of the best experiences in Lisbon is to dive into the nightlife of Bairro Alto, where you can feel the city’s electrifying energy. This vibrant neighborhood is the essence of Lisbon’s nightlife. We recommend visiting Pavilhão Chinês, a vintage cocktail bar that feels like stepping back in time. Another great spot is Noobai Café, which offers fantastic drinks and stunning views, although the food reviews are mixed—stick to beverages here.

4. Visit Belem: a must-see in Lisbon

We can't forget about Belem—it’s so significant that it deserves its own spotlight. Visiting Lisbon without exploring Belem would be a travel sin. Stroll through this neighborhood at a leisurely pace, taking in its monuments, gardens, and historical corners—it's undoubtedly one of the best activities you can do in the city.

Here are some top stops in this area:

— Belem Tower

Here, you'll find one of Lisbon's iconic symbols: the Belem Tower, a 16th-century gem that looks like it’s come straight out of a storybook. Originally built on a small island in the Tagus River to protect the port from maritime attacks, this watchtower boasts impressive gargoyles, battlements, and Manueline details, offering fantastic views of the river. Inside, admission is €15, but the real beauty is in the exterior; if you enjoy climbing towers for panoramic sights, it’s worth the visit.

— Monument to the Discoveries

From Belem Tower, take a lovely walk to the Monument to the Discoveries, an imposing sculpture that pays tribute to the courageous Portuguese sailors who set out to explore new territories. This monument is a declaration of ambition and adventure, adorned with figures of explorers, cartographers, and kings gazing toward the horizon.

Before moving on, take a moment to appreciate the view of the Tagus River, the very waterway from which legendary navigators like Vasco da Gama set sail to change the course of history.

— Savor a pastel de Belem

Of course, this neighborhood is renowned for its delectable treats—the famous pastéis de Belem. While you can find these delights throughout Lisbon, the originals are only available here, at the pastry shop that has been keeping the secret recipe for centuries. Over 20,000 pastries are sold daily—imagine the lines!

If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss trying another Portuguese classic: pão de Deus, a fluffy bun filled with cream and topped with shredded coconut—irresistible!

→ We also recommend joining this free tour to learn about Belem and its history from a local guide.

5. Discover the exquisite squares of Lisbon

To feel the pulse of the city, take a break at some of the most emblematic squares in Lisbon. The Praça dos Restauradores welcomes you with stylish buildings like the iconic Hotel Eden. Nearby, the Praça do Rossio will captivate you with its mesmerizing black-and-white tiled patterns. Don’t forget to explore the Praça da Figueira, with its charming attic houses that look like they’ve jumped out of a postcard.

If you’re looking for a peaceful moment, the small plazas, or achadas, in the Bairro Alto are perfect spots, filled with orange trees that perfume the air—an ideal corner to unwind between strolls.

And of course, the Praça do Comércio is a must-visit. It’s one of the largest and most majestic squares in Lisbon, right by the Tagus River. Here, you can sit back with a Super Bock beer while enjoying the views. In the center stands the equestrian statue of José I, the king of Portugal in the 18th century, overseeing the square.

Most of these squares are located in the heart of Baixa, an area entirely rebuilt after the catastrophic 1755 earthquake, now radiating elegance and order.

Discover Lisbon through a free tour. There are several options (and yes, signing up is free, but at the end of the tour, you can decide what to pay the guide). We believe it’s the best way to break the ice with a new city, so we recommend joining a free tour on your first day. Our favorites are the mysteries and legends tour and the alternative Lisbon tour. Here you can find out about the best free tours in Spanish in Lisbon.

6. Stroll along Rua Augusta and its arch

Next up, you won’t have to wander far: Rua Augusta is one of Lisbon's most crucial pedestrian streets. To begin your walk, you’ll first cross the remarkable Arch of Triumph, a stunning structure adorned with statues that can also be visited from within. Inside, you’ll find an exhibition about the arch's history, and if you climb to the top terrace, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Praça do Comércio and the Tagus River.

→ Want to go up? Get your admission ticket for the Rua Augusta Arch here.

7. Visit the stunning Lisbon Cathedral

Don’t miss the Catedral da Sé, undoubtedly the most beautiful and emblematic church in Lisbon. Built in Romanesque style—though its cloister is Gothic—it has a fascinating history: it was one of the few buildings that survived the earthquakes and major fires that plagued the city over the centuries. Established in 1148, it is considered the oldest church in Lisbon.

If you climb to the south tower, you can visit the Cathedral treasury, featuring a remarkable collection of silver pieces, ornate artifacts, statues, and relics of St. Vincent, the city’s patron saint.

Note that admission is no longer free: it currently costs €5, but it is well worth it for a deep dive into history and art.

— Other churches worth visiting in Lisbon

There are several churches scattered throughout Lisbon that might also warrant a visit, such as:

• Church of Santo Domingo, where you can see the scorch marks from the 1959 fire on its walls.
• Church of São Roque, plain on the outside but a treasure trove of Baroque art within.
• Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon, the birthplace of this saint, more commonly known as Saint Anthony of Padua.

8. Marvel at the Jerónimos Monastery

Before leaving Belem, make sure to visit the Jerónimos Monastery, featuring an awe-inspiring cloister. This UNESCO World Heritage site was commissioned by Manuel I (funded by taxes from the colonies in the "New World").

Founded in 1510, it boasts a stunning Manueline style (a mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements). Beyond its architectural splendor, you can pay homage to significant Portuguese figures, such as navigator Vasco da Gama and writers and poets Fernando Pessoa and Luís de Camões.

→ As with other tourist attractions in Lisbon, we suggest purchasing tickets for the Jerónimos Monastery in advance.

9. Relax at the Portas do Sol viewpoint

With its seven hills, Lisbon is brimming with viewpoints. There are many (more on that below), but if you could only pick one, the Miradouro das Portas do Sol is the clear choice.

Even better if you visit as the sun sets—witnessing the sunset from this viewpoint, with stunning views of the rooftops of Alfama and the soundtrack of a street performer, is one of the most magical experiences you can have in Lisbon.

— Other viewpoints in Lisbon

As previously mentioned, there are plenty of other breathtaking viewpoints to consider:

• Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, a classic viewpoint offering stunning views of São Jorge Castle and central Lisbon. There’s also a charming little garden and a kiosk to grab a drink.
• Miradouro da Graça, perfect for a beer break, teeming with atmosphere, benches to sit and enjoy, and one of the best panoramas of the city.
• Miradouro de Santa Lucía, one of the most romantic spots, adorned with beautiful azulejos and direct views of Alfama’s rooftops and the river—ideal for photos (or a thousand).
• Miradouro do Recolhimento, less known but charming. It’s quiet, small, and overlooks the castle. If you’re looking for a local spot without crowds, this is your place.

— Ride the cable car for a unique view of Lisbon

If you truly wish to experience bird’s-eye views, nothing beats the Telecabine, a cable car that glides over the Tagus River at a height of 30 meters! You can buy tickets for the Lisbon cable car here.

This is also a fantastic plan to do in Lisbon with kids (though anyone afraid of heights might disagree).

10. Visit the Carmo Convent

The Carmo Convent is an impressive Gothic church that lost its roof in the 1755 earthquake. Today, its open-air ruins create a unique scene, with columns reaching skyward in an atmosphere laden with silence. Inside, you can explore a small Archaeological Museum showcasing intriguing artifacts. Admission is €7 and is definitely worth it.

This is an interesting visit in Lisbon, one that will leave you looking up at the sky—literally.

11. Enjoy a drink at Café A Brasileira

No trip to Lisbon is complete without a photo with the bronze statue of Fernando Pessoa, the most iconic Portuguese poet of the 20th century, sitting serenely in front of the iconic Café A Brasileira.

If you feel hungry or crave a good coffee while snapping selfies, you’re in the perfect spot. The pastéis de nata at this café are a true delight, perfect for pairing with an espresso or a bica (what the Portuguese call their coffee).

Don’t worry—nobody will judge you if you decide to order another sweet treat… it’s a foolproof plan!

12. Ride the famous Tram 28

Taking a ride on the famous Tram 28 is a classic Lisbon experience you simply cannot miss. This yellow tram follows a spectacular route that passes many of the city’s most beautiful and iconic spots, from the Graça neighborhood to Estrela and Baixa.

Think of it as a bus tour, but with much more charm and authenticity, as you’ll be surrounded by locals and tourists, navigating narrow, steep streets, and crossing hills, squares, and vibrant alleyways. And at just €3.10, it’s an affordable option for discovering the city without exhausting yourself on foot.

Our tip: try to snag a window seat to enjoy the views and sounds of Lisbon as the tram rolls through hills, avoiding corners and showcasing the city’s authentic essence. Be cautious during peak hours, as it can get crowded, and always keep an eye on your belongings to deter pickpockets.

13. Discover Lisbon's iconic bridges

Lisbon wouldn’t be the same without its bridges. Crossing the Tagus River is part of everyday life, and these massive structures connect shores while embodying the city's soul. Here are the two most important ones:

— Vasco da Gama Bridge

From the cable car station in Parque das Nações, you can see one of Lisbon's giants: the Vasco da Gama Bridge. Spanning an impressive 17 kilometers, it is one of the longest bridges in Europe and a true feat of modern engineering. Inaugurated in 1998 just in time for that year’s Expo, it is named after the famous explorer who opened the maritime route to India.

— 25 de Abril Bridge

Let's not forget the other bridge everyone should know about when visiting Lisbon: the 25 de Abril Bridge, which might just make you think you’ve been teleported to San Francisco. Doesn’t it resemble the Golden Gate? This is no coincidence: it was built by the same company that also designed the Californian bridge.

This red giant connects Lisbon with the southern shore of the Tagus and is named in honor of the Carnation Revolution, which ended the Portuguese dictatorship on April 25, 1974. But it’s not just the bridge that impresses; on the other side lies a monumental surprise—the Cristo Rei statue, a giant figure inspired by the one in Rio de Janeiro. The Portuguese version is only 2 meters shorter, though it gains height thanks to its 75-meter pedestal. The best part? The views from there are breathtaking.

14. Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

The Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian Collection is one of the most significant private collections in the world, featuring over 6,000 pieces ranging from Ancient Egypt to the 20th century, including works by renowned artists like Renoir and Rembrandt. This makes it one of the most well-known and respected museums in Portugal.

In addition to the fantastic collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions. If you prefer, you can purchase a comprehensive ticket that grants access to all exhibition areas. Make sure to set aside some time to enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum, offering a serene oasis within the city.

If you want to learn more about its founder, the Armenian philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian, and the collection, we recommend joining the guided tour held every Monday at 11 a.m. (only in English). More information and ticket reservations can be found on their official website.

15. Explore other museums in Lisbon

If you’re a fan of modern art, visit the Berardo Collection Museum of Modern Art. Located in Belem, right next to the Jerónimos Monastery, admission is free, so there are no excuses to miss it!

In its halls, you’ll find a dazzling display of top artists: Warhol, Picasso, Dalí, Duchamp, Miró, Bacon, and yes, even my beloved Pollock (oh, the beauty of that chaos of splatters and brutal energy!). The collection provides a comprehensive overview of the 20th and 21st centuries, featuring pop art, surrealism, Dadaism, conceptual art… It’s one of those museums where you can spend hours or just make a quick visit, leaving your head filled with creative inspiration.

But that’s not all. Lisbon is home to more intriguing museums:

• National Tile Museum: A classic to understand this unique form of Portuguese art. The building alone is worth the visit.
• Fado Museum: Perfect for immersing yourself in the most nostalgic music of Portugal. If you weren’t a fan before, you might find yourself searching for fados on Spotify after your visit.
• Naturalis History and Science Museum: Ideal for families (or adults!). Expect skeletons, fossils, experiments, and preserved bugs, all well-organized and entertaining.

More things to do in Lisbon

If you have more time or want to explore some lesser-known spots, here are a few suggestions:

• Experience the contrast of old and new at the Oriente Station. Did you know it was designed by the Spanish architect Calatrava?
• While you're there, take a stroll through the modernist architecture of the nearby Parque das Nações, a remnant of the 1998 Expo.
• Don't miss the quintessential tourist experience of bringing home a souvenir featuring a replica of the Rooster of Barcelos—a must! Your grandma will love it. Do you know what it symbolizes? Check out this post on curiosities about Portugal for the details.
• Walk under the Casa dos Bicos, named for the spikes on its façade.
• Among Lisbon's most iconic streets, you can’t miss Avenida da Liberdade, lined with luxury shops, hotels, and theaters, or the charming Rua dos Remedios with its colorful houses and a good number of terraces to soak in the atmosphere. And the peculiar and picturesque pink street! This Instagrammable pink road (though it’s increasingly faded... let’s hope they repaint it) is found on Rua Nova do Carvalho.
• Before leaving Lisbon, be sure to savor some delicacies from Portuguese cuisine. Our favorite? bacalhau com natas, and if you like meat, try picanha brasileira (a specially cut barbecue).
• A great alternative is to wander through the Mercado da Ribeira, an old market that has been transformed into a chic spot for purchasing local products or tasting tapas, dishes, and sipping some wine, though prices can be a bit on the higher side. But the building and atmosphere are delightful.
• On Tuesday and Saturday mornings, visit Campo de Santa Clara for the Feira da Ladra, a second-hand market where you can easily find bargains.

Best excursions from Lisbon

If you think you've checked everything off your list of things to see and do in Lisbon, consider a day trip. There are stunning places nearby such as Sintra, Cabo da Roca, the Arrábida Natural Park, Cascais and Estoril, Fátima, Évora… If you have the time, don’t hesitate: Portugal is an absolute marvel!

→ Here you can find out more about the best excursions from Lisbon.

Where to Stay in Lisbon: Best Areas and Accommodations