Over the last couple of years, Portugal has become a hot travel destination for people all over the world. With charming neighborhoods, fantastic food, scenic landscapes, and historical charm, Portugal has something for everyone. Once you are able to explore this country for yourself, you will see why it is quickly becoming “the place to visit”. We hope this travel guide to Lisbon, Portugal helps you create an incredible itinerary.
Quick facts
To start off this travel guide to Lisbon, Portugal, here are a couple of quick facts about the city and country.
- The beautiful city of Lisbon also serves as the nation’s capital.
- Portugal is the largest cork producer in the world.
- Portugal is one of the world’s top surf spots.
- In 1755, Lisbon was hit by one of the most powerful earthquakes in European history, which destroyed much of the city.
- Europe’s westernmost point is located just outside of Lisbon, Portugal.
How to get there
This wouldn’t be a very good travel guide without some pointers on how to get there. Luckily, its not too difficult to get to Portugal. Lisbon and Porto are the most popular cities for travelers in Portugal, with Lisbon a bit easier to get to from the United States.
Depending on where you are starting your journey, you should be able to get to Lisbon, Portugal with one stop or less. Your connection will likely be in London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Frankfurt (FRA), Madrid (MAD), Newark (EWR), or Boston (BOS) based on the airline you travel with.
Things to do & see
There are so many things to do and see while exploring Lisbon. Here are some of our favorites that you should work into your itinerary.
Tram 28 / 12
IF you can find a seat, this is a great way to see the city. If you would rather see the sights on foot, we would recommend utilizing the Tram to get from Baixa Chiado to Alfama. Tram 28 is notoriously busy and has gotten a bad reputation for being home to pickpockets. If Tram 28 is looking extremely busy, Tram 12 runs the same route from Baixa Chiado to Alfama and may be a better bet.
Explore the Alfama neighborhood
Sitting on a steep hill in Lisbon, the neighborhood of Alfama is the most colorful and oldest area of the City. Must of Alfama survived the earthquake in 1755, which makes this neighborhood the most historic area of Lisbon. You could spend an entire day getting lost in the winding streets and taking in the incredible views from the hilltop.
Castelo de Sao Jorge
At the highest point on the steep hill of Alfama stands the ancient castle of Lisbon. Wander along the castle walls and take in the view of Lisbon.
Baixa Chiado – Praca do Comercio
One of the highlights of the city is the Praca do Comercio. A large, magnificent plaza in Lisbon lined on three sides in yellow historic buildings with the fourth sized facing the water of the Tejo Estuary.
Rossio Square
A lively square in Lisbon lined with cafes and shops. The square features beautiful fountains, cobblestones, and statues and is a great place to grab a bite to eat.
Santa Justa Lift
The Elevador de Santa Justa is a 19th Century Elevator that transports passengers up from the Baixa district to the Largo do Carmo. This wrought iron structure used to be a key to the city’s public transportation system – today you can ride to the top and check out the views.
Lisbon Cathedral
The Cathedral of Saint Mary Major is the oldest church in the city. Sitting along Tram 28’s route, you can hop off of the tram at this point to take in the history or catch a great sight of it on your way to Alfama.
Pink Street
Rua Nova do Carvalho “Pink Street” is an adorable (and very instragramable) in Cais do Sodre. Once the red-light district, this area is the home of some of Lisbon’s best bars.
The Bica Funicular
Ride a charming elevador. Take a break and ride a funicular (lift) instead of walking uphill. The charming Elevador da Bica connects the Cais de Sodre neighborhood with the Bairro Alto neighborhood of the city.
Day trips from Lisbon
Sintra
Home of Palacio da Pena castle and the Quinta da Regaleira gardens. The incredible hilly landscape of Sintra will be a day trip to remember.
Cascais
Beautiful seaside town which has developed into a popular resort destination. A summer retreat from the city with beaches and rocky landscapes to get lost in.
Belem
To the west of Lisbon, you will find the Belem district. A much calmer atmosphere than the center of the City, Belem is home to the Torre de Belem and Pasteis de Belem – the home of the original Pastel de Nata custard tart that you will find all over the city.
best Lisbon Tours for your day trip
Sintra Private Tour a dreamlike experience
Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon
Private City Tour: Highlights of Lisbon
Best hotels in Lisbon
Lisbon has a wide selection of accommodations sprawled across the numerous neighborhoods of the city. We found the hotels in Lisbon near Av. Da Liberdade to be the perfect central location for walkability of the city. In addition, the neighborhoods of Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Alfama are some of the best areas to stay in Lisbon and offer beautiful and unique accommodations to fit any budget.
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Verride Palacio Santa Catarina
Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon
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Where to eat & drink
Time Out Market – so many fantastic options for lunch
Mercado da Baixa – for an afternoon snack
Pinoquio – the perfect seafood restaurant
The V Rooftop Bar – for incredible Lisbon views
Fabrica da Nata – for your nightly pasteis de nata
Don’t forget to pack your walking shoes
Maybe the most important note from our travel guide to Lisbon…
The city of Lisbon is known as the city of the 7 hills for good reason. It seems that you are always walking up hill so make sure you pack some comfortable shoes for you days exploring the city.
My go-to travel shoes
Allbirds Tree Runners Everyday Sneakers
Pack your bags
…and get ready for your adventure in Lisbon. We hope this travel guide to Lisbon has given you some inspiration when putting together your itinerary. This captivating city is a fantastic getaway for any traveler looking for unique history and stunning views. Filled with winding streets, historic buildings, panoramic views, delicious food, and warm hospitality, this city has something for every traveler!
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