Rossio Square Admiring Insta-worthy architecture is a top thing to do in Lisbon.
One of Europe’s busiest tourist destinations, Lisbon is popular for good reason. There’s an obscene amount to explore. Every cobbled street features a gem worth its sauce, whether you’re the kind of traveller that licks their lips over a local bakery or a neoclassical palace.
Best of all, you’ll get to discover the Portuguese capital in the warmth. Lisbon is one of the sunniest cities in Europe, with temperatures allowing for shorts and t-shirts for most of the year. Pair that with its relative affordability compared to the rest of the region and you’ve got the recipe for a stellar trip.
With Atlantic beaches, a rich culture and vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone. Here are the best things to do in Lisbon for first-time and repeat visitors.
1. Admire the gorgeous Jerónimos Monastery
The gothic-style Jerónimos Monastery is worth an IG slide or two. Commissioned by King Manuel I in 1501, it took over a century – and a huge amount of money - to complete. Now, it's one of the most visited attractions in Lisbon and considered a Portuguese architectural masterpiece. But you’ll need to arrive early for a visit: during peak seasons, this UNESCO World Heritage Site sees lines that are several hours long.
2. Tick off another nearby biggie at Belém Tower
Mere steps away from Jerónimos Monastery, mosey over to another UNESCO-listed site, Torre de Belém. The chess-piece-style fortress was built to help protect the city from enemy ships back in 1514. Visitors can climb up to the top of the tower for impressive views over the Tagus River or enjoy it up close from the surrounding waterfront and park, no ticket required.
3. Stuff your face with pastel de natas
You may have already sampled Portugal's famous egg custard tarts, but trust us, they’re even better in their birthplace. Pastel de natas can be found on just about every street — simply follow the sweet scent of cinnamon custard to a bakery. Where serves the best pastel de natas in Lisbon? It depends on who you ask, but notable purveyors include Manteigaria, Castro, and Pastéis de Belém.
4. Discover the savouries on a food tour
It’s not just about the sweet treats. Savoury Portuguese delights include Bacalhau (salted cod), Caldo Verde soup, and Alheria sausages, while the Piri-Piri chicken will knock the socks off anything you’ll find in Nandos. Take a Devour Food Tour of Lisbon to experience dishes that define Portuguese culture at historic local establishments and make some new foodie pals in the process.
5. Kick back at the Jardim do Torel
This once ‘secret’ city garden has exploded in popularity thanks to social media and K-Pop artist NewJeans’ viral ‘Super Shy’ music video, which was filmed here. Jardim do Torel used to be part of a private property dating back to the 18th century, but it opened to the public across two levels in the 1960s. The upper part is verdant and shaded by trees and the lower section features a pond and an 18th-century sculpture. Both boast scenic views over Baixa and Avenida da Liberdade.
6. Catch a traditional fado performance
Originating in Lisbon in the early 19th century, fado is a style of music characterised by mournful lyrics and melancholic sounds, even at its most up-tempo. To experience fado in real life, wander through the old town of Alfama, where you’ll likely stumble across a street performance. If not, step into a local watering hole or bistro and enjoy fado over a three euro glass of wine. Don’t be conned into buying expensive tourist trap tickets.
7. Find gold under the tiles
The Museu Nacional do Azulejo, also known as the National Tile Museum, is often overlooked, but there is more to explore here than you might assume. Visitors are not only treated to a collection of historic Portuguese glazed tiles, but the museum is housed in the former Madre de Deus convent and church, dating back to 1509. The building is gilded in Portuguese baroque splendour from floor to ceiling and easily one of the most impressive indoor sights in all of Lisbon.
8. Bar hop in Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is one of Lisbon’s busiest districts after dark and a great spot to sample the local ginja, a cherry liqueur. There’s something for everyone here, from wine bars and jazz clubs to live fado performances, and the party continues outside, with revellers spilling out onto the narrow cobbled streets. Don’t miss The Old Pharmacy, a chemist shop turned bar, or the wonderfully inclusive Maria Caxuxa.
9. Shop the LX Factory
The LX Factory is where all the cool kids are hanging out these days. This former industrial complex is now home to markets, cafes, exhibitions and the odd party. It’s located beneath the Ponte de 25 Abril Bridge and has outlets ranging from vintage boutiques and a multi-story bookstore to an origami shop and a Sunday flea market.
10. Dive under the sea at Lisbon Oceanarium
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, the Lisbon Oceanarium is often hailed as a ‘window’ to the sea. Guests can get up close to thousands of marine creatures such as Magellanic penguins, sea otters, rays and sharks, and part of the money made from each ticket goes toward ocean conservation and marine biodiversity. The giant venue is in the Parque das Nações, the original exhibition ground for the Expo '98.
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