Things to do in Lisbon: the must-sees and our tips

In short: Lisbon is a city of hills and viewpoints. Climb through Alfama up to São Jorge Castle, wander the Baixa and Chiado, ride tram 28, try the pastéis de nata in Belém, and keep a day for Sintra. Bring good shoes: it’s steep.

Alfama and São Jorge Castle

Lisbon’s oldest district, Alfama is a maze of lanes, stairways and washing hanging from windows. At the top, São Jorge Castle offers views over the rooftops and the Tagus. In the evening, it’s the home of fado, to be heard in a small fado house.

Baixa, Praça do Comércio and Chiado

Rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, the Baixa lines up its straight streets down to the great Praça do Comércio, open to the Tagus. Above it, Chiado and its historic cafés, bookshops and theatres. The Santa Justa Lift links the two districts.

Tram 28 and the miradouros

The famous tram 28 runs through the old districts along narrow, steep streets. Board early to avoid the crowds. The miradouros (viewpoints) are everywhere: Santa Luzia, Graça, Senhora do Monte, São Pedro de Alcântara… perfect at sunset.

Belém

To the west, Belém brings together the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of the Manueline style, the Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. Take the chance to try pastéis de nata at the district’s historic bakery.

Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real

Quiet by day, Bairro Alto comes alive at night with its bars and crowded lanes. Next door, Príncipe Real charms with its shops, garden and fine mansions.

Other visits

• LX Factory, a former factory turned into shops and restaurants.
• The Oceanário, in the modern Parque das Nações district, ideal with children.
• Time Out Market, a covered market turned food hall.

Day trips from Lisbon

• Sintra: Pena Palace (booked time slot), Quinta da Regaleira and the forests.
• Cascais and the coast, for the sea.
• Porto, about 2 h 45 away by Alfa Pendular train, for a stay of a few days.

Getting around

• The metro, trams and funiculars help with the hills.
• From the airport, the red metro line reaches the centre in about 25 minutes (change for the Baixa).
• Tourist tax: Lisbon charges a per-night tax, capped at a few nights.

All the tips for the country: Travel in Portugal.

Where to stay in Lisbon

The Baixa and Chiado for a first visit, Alfama for charm, Bairro Alto for nightlife, Príncipe Real for calm and elegance. Every area is detailed in our guide Where to stay in Lisbon.