When one thinks of this Portuguese metropolis, the breathtaking Praça do Comércio, Belém Tower, Castelo de S. Jorge, Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and LX Factory immediately spring to mind.
However, Lisbon is brimming with local culture and hidden treasures beyond these well-known sights, providing experiences that surpass what you may have read about in literature or on social media.
One of the most thrilling aspects of trip planning is selecting the top activities in Lisbon. Lisbon promises to be a wonderful getaway with many sights and experiences. The greatest accommodations in Lisbon provide a cosy spot to unwind in between activities, whether your goal is adventure or leisure.
Whatever your vacation preferences—culture seekers, nature lovers, history fans, or art enthusiasts—there are Lisbon things to do that will captivate and astound you.
Bring your walking shoes. The cosmopolitan capital of Portugal, also known as the City of Seven Hills, is brimming with old-world charm and exudes an attraction unmatched in Europe.
The food is fantastic, the nightlife is vibrant, and the city’s views from several vantage points are stunning, so it’s no wonder it’s a popular place. The good news is that there are still some hidden gems to explore. Inquisitive tourists might discover even more what to see in Lisbon.
Explore Lisbon’s Iconic Landmarks
Any visitor wishes to know things to do in Lisbon, Portugal, and discover the abundance of attractions and stunning monuments.
Lisbon’s strong cultural and historical ambience will make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Strolling stone arches, fortified towers, and evocative cathedrals fill the city’s meandering cobblestone lanes.
Although it’s easy to walk around these areas, a quaint vintage streetcar also serves as one of the top things to do in Lisbon. Incorporate these popular landmarks into your itinerary.
Visit the Belem Tower
When planning your trip and writing down the things to do in Lisbon, you cannot miss including the Belem Tower in your travel bucket list. This is an amazing location on the historical map of the Portuguese capital.
Constructed in the 16th century on the northern bank of the Tagus, Belém Tower served as a defensive structure for the city and represented King Manuel I’s reign (1495–1521).
A roof patio is accessible from the tower’s five floors. A tiny, narrow spiral staircase connects each story, which can be overwhelming on the busiest days because you must wait your turn to walk up and down.
The western façade of the Tower of Belém features a unique gargoyle shaped like a rhinoceros. It’s interesting to note that the first rhino to arrive in Portugal was from India in 1513.
The Tower of Belém is one of the city’s most wonderful pearls, and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Lisbon.
Discover the Jerónimos Monastery
The next thing on the list of best things to do in Lisbon, Portugal, is walking to Jerónimos Monastery. This monastery houses Vasco de Gama’s grave and is the most popular tourist destination, along with the Belem Tower.
UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1983. In Portuguese, this landmark is known as Mosteiro dos Jerónimos.
The monastery was oddly constructed on the location of the old Ermida do Restelo. Vasco da Gama and the other sailors prayed in this chapel before sailing to India from Africa.
The tomb of Fernando Pessoa, a well-known Portuguese poet and writer, and the church of Santa Maria can be seen from above while you tour the cloister. In one of the cloister’s rooms, the history of the monastery is compared to the evolution of the nation and the rest of the world.
If you are still wondering what to do in Lisbon, then it is unquestionably worthwhile to visit Jerónimos Monastery, which symbolizes Portugal’s most prosperous era.
Experience Lisbon’s Vibrant Culture
Lisbon offers a cultural experience thanks to its dynamic blend of modernity and heritage, from the colourful street art covering its walls to the passionate strains of Fado music reverberating through the streets. Plunging into discovering Lisbon, Portugal, things to do, we offer to open the door to the cultural side of this amazing city.
Explore the Alfama District
Alfama, the city’s oldest neighbourhood, is a gem for anyone interested in Lisbon culture. Strolling down its winding, tiny streets is like travelling back in time. Every alleyway offers breathtaking views of famous buildings and the Tagus River.
As you explore, you will come across brilliant structures with azulejos—decorated ceramic tiles that capture the essence of Lisbon’s lively culture.
This area is rich in history after withstanding the 1755 earthquake. You may also see landmarks like the Castelo de São Jorge and the Lisbon Cathedral. Thus, a stroll through Alfama tells the tale of Lisbon’s rich past while also showcasing the city’s stunning architecture. Going to the Alfama District is an absolutely must do in Lisbon.
Enjoy Fado Music at a Traditional Venue
The soul of Lisbon culture is frequently said to be fado music. This genre’s gloomy melodies and poetic lyrics arouse strong emotions. Tourists can experience fado in a variety of settings, ranging from small bars to larger venues. The historic Alfama district has the most genuine performances.
Musicians convey themes of love, longing, and nostalgia as they go from one song to the next, filling the air with meaningful historical tales. Many Fado establishments also include a dining area where visitors may savour authentic Portuguese fare while listening to heartfelt music.
While exploring Lisbon for what to do, don’t miss the opportunity to see this fascinating art form, which UNESCO has designated an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Indulge in Lisbon’s Gastronomy
What to do in Lisbon, Portugal, besides exploring the historical and cultural spots? The answer is simple: enjoying local cuisine. In terms of food, Lisbon is a veritable foodie paradise.
This city may satisfy every taste, which offers everything from elegant Michelin-starred eateries to welcoming family-run taverns. Initiate your culinary exploration by exploring Portuguese food.
For foodies, Lisbon’s culinary heaven is an absolute treat. This city has something to suit every taste, whether you prefer traditional Portuguese food or are keen to try new delicacies worldwide.
So, explore Lisbon’s quaint alleyways and let your taste sensations lead you on a unique culinary adventure. Savour the delicious culinary treasures waiting for you, and be ready to be enthralled by the tastes, scents, and culinary customs.
Savor Traditional Pastéis de Nata
The Portuguese egg custard tart pastry known as pastel de nata was created by Catholic monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon’s Belém neighbourhood before the 18th century.
Pastel de Nata is so frequently referred to as Pastel de Belém. Because they used egg whites to starch garments, the monks in Belém had an abundance of egg yolks. Thus, the Pastel de Nata recipe was created, which is rich in eggs and yolks.
What is the flavour of an excellent pastel de nata? Decent restaurants will give you warm pastel de nata and keep their pastries on a warm surface. It tastes great heated! The centre should melt in your mouth, be warm, and be soft!
Depending on your preferences, they may offer powdered sugar and cinnamon to sprinkle over the Pastel de Nata. The puff pastry binds everything together and must have a pleasant little crunch without being very thick, difficult to bite into, or flaky.
Enjoying a delectable Portuguese dessert is among other Lisbon things to do. It is an ideal way to cap off an amazing walk through attractive streets and alleys of the city.
Here are some of Lisbon’s greatest pastel de nata spots:
- Manteigaria.
- Castro, Atelier de Pastéis de Nata.
- Fabrica da Nata.
- Pastéis de Belém.
- Pastelaria Santo António.
- Casa São Miguel – Casa de Pastéis de Nata.
- Alfama Doce.
- Nata De Lisboa.
- Confeitaria Nacional.
Are you craving more? As one of Europe’s gastronomic capitals, Lisbon is a great place to explore the greatest markets and restaurants or hop between the town’s best bars.
Dine at the Mercado da Ribeira
Lisbon’s Mercado da Ribeira is a well-liked culinary tradition in a city renowned for its excellent food. The next step in exploring things to do in Lisbon, Portugal, is heading to this place. For over 125 years, the Cais do Sodré region has been home to a great neighbourhood market that has drawn inhabitants in search of fresh fruit, flowers, meats, and seafood.
While the other half of the Mercado da Ribeira is home to Time Out Market Lisboa, maybe Europe’s best food court, the other half is still a typical market brimming with locally produced foods.
Inside this riverside market, you can discover some of Lisbon’s best restaurants, including Michelin-starred establishments. Without having to make a reservation, the Time Out Market offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy dishes prepared by the best chefs in the world.
This carefully chosen collection of eateries, booths, bakeries, and bars offers a fun and distinctive way to experience Lisbon’s food and culture in what has grown to be one of the city’s most well-liked gastronomic destinations.
Traditional local Portuguese restaurants called Tasca are a must-visit if you want the greatest Portuguese cuisine. They primarily serve lunch, but they also provide dinner options.
Lisbon’s top Tascas are typically located in the older neighbourhoods and farther from the busiest tourist destinations. Many will display menus to you in Baixa Chiado, attempting to get you to visit their pricey eateries. Try one of the Tascas instead of those.
Discover Lisbon’s Scenic Views
Amidst breathtaking views, Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-kissed capital, is a city where modernism and history blend harmoniously. The city’s distinct appeal is well known, and it is best enjoyed from its numerous vantage points, or “miradouros,” as they are called locally.
No matter how experienced you are, these locations provide an amazing opportunity to experience Lisbon’s unique personality.
The city’s distinctive fusion of modern and traditional elements, evident in its street life and architecture, provides a visual feast that enhances travel experiences. It’s difficult to find a dull time because there are things to see in Lisbon. That being said, you should not miss Lisbon’s most amazing locations.
Take in the View from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
One of the most notable landmarks in Lisbon is the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. A special location with a wonderful view. Sitting back and taking in the city is ideal in this serene, almost mystical spot. Although it offers a breathtaking panoramic perspective, it is also among the most tranquil places to gaze at the city.
On its left are the Graça church and the fortress, which stand watch over the city with dwellings cascading down its hillside.
The remains of Carmo, the pastel hues of the Avenidas Novas, and the rooftops of Baixa are illuminated by the river and the Tagus estuary in the distance. Afonso Henriques, the first Portuguese monarch, gathered his army to take over Lisbon, and this is all from the location.
Ride the famous Tram 28
Originally used as the city’s urban transportation system in 1884, these historic trams are a reminder of the past but are still in use today to transport passengers up and down the steep hills of Portugal’s picturesque capital. The ride frequently gives the impression that you have travelled back in time to an old movie set.
A trip on Tram 28 is one of the greatest ways to experience everything this incredible city offers quickly because it is genuinely iconic and will take you to some of the top locations.
However, since taking a ride on Tram 28 is one of the most popular things to do in Lisbon, both tourists and residents are quite interested in it.
Tip: Some walking tours of Lisbon include a quick ride on Tram 28 if you feel overwhelmed. A very pleasant tuk-tuk tour covers the entire Tram 28 route, letting you explore the same locations much more leisurely and uncrowded.
This is arguably a better option unless you want to sit (or, most likely, stand) in the original tram. Additionally, several trams can be seen throughout the route! Taking photos from a tuk-tuk is far simpler than doing it from a moving tram window.
Lisbon’s Hidden Gems
Lisbon has fascinating hidden gems, like its charming labyrinth of tiny streets, oddball museums, and distinctive neighbourhoods. A few decades ago, it would have been easy to argue that Lisbon, and Portugal in general, was a hidden gem. However, visitors must try to venture off the usual route in Lisbon today.
Although the majority of those tourists will spend their time fighting the crowds at well-known tourist destinations like the Castelo de S. Jorge, the Jeronimos Monastery, and Belém Tower, Lisbon has many more hidden treasures than you may imagine; you simply have to climb the hills first.
Explore the LX Factory
A sizable textile mill from the middle of the 19th century was transformed into a trendy creative district in 2008, complete with retail stores, cafes, bars, restaurants, and start-up organizations.
It features two streets with great shops selling trinkets, cafes, and restaurants with terraces extending onto the pavement. Upstairs in the main factory building, you can discover studios rented by producers, artists, and creatives.
Every Sunday, an LX Factory Market with vintage apparel and locally produced goods takes place. The market also organizes events and performances all year long, from private conferences to the Lisbon Coffee Festival.
There are so many incredible things to do here:
- Observe the stunning street art. Amazing street art is shown on the exterior walls of numerous buildings and walls. The factory’s artwork appears to rotate periodically, so there’s always something fresh to view.
- Enter the hip bookshop. The Daily Mail and the Financial Times are among the international publications that have hailed Ler Devagar as one of the world’s most exquisite bookshops.
- On Sundays, stop by the LX Factory Market. Every Sunday, the LX Factory Market opens with a carefully chosen assortment of sellers from approximately 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. You can anticipate finding everything from local designers to hip vintage shops and handcrafted jewelry and sunglasses manufactured in Portugal. There are always a few gourmet stands near the entry selling handcrafted cheeses, spices, baked products, and liqueurs.
LX Factory’s well-established reputation and growing renown are concrete examples of what a community can do! Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, this site was made possible by the united efforts of architects, artists, designers, cooks, and store owners!
To reach LX Factory, take the metro to the Alcantara-Terra station. Then, take a short walk along the river. If you would rather not walk, you can always take a tram, which will drop you off fairly near the entrance!
Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
Located in Portugal’s Parque Santa Gertrudes, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum symbolises museum architecture. With so many windows to the outside, visitors can engage in an ongoing conversation between art and nature.
The galleries for the permanent exhibitions are scattered across two patios on the first floor of the building. Each gallery is connected to its successor based on a geographical and chronological classification system, creating two separate itineraries within the museum’s overall circuit.
The museum’s collection consists of over 6,000 pieces. Gulbenkian’s constant interests and inclinations, which led him, are reflected in the collection’s breadth. It encompasses a range of art historical eras, from early 20th-century European art to classical and oriental Rome.
In summary, Lisbon is a fantastic city that will captivate even the pickiest traveller with its variety. In addition to impressing, the Portuguese capital’s tremendously rich culinary and cultural heritage will leave you with enduringly warm and memorable recollections.
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