Lisbon is the kind of city that invites you to slow down, to wander cobblestone streets, linger over long lunches, and pause often for sweeping views over terracotta rooftops and the Tagus River. From its historic neighborhoods and iconic trams to its thriving food scene and coastal energy, Portugal’s capital offers the perfect balance of culture, charm, and everyday livability.
We chose to spend our time fully exploring Lisbon itself, using the city as a home base to experience its distinct neighborhoods, local traditions, and unforgettable flavors. From walking tours through Alfama and Baixa to sailing along the Tagus River, taking a Portuguese cooking class, and escaping to nearby beaches. Lisbon quickly proved to be a destination worth savoring and not just a stop between places.
One of Lisbon’s greatest strengths is how effortlessly it connects to the rest of Portugal. While this guide focuses on what to see, eat, and experience within Lisbon, the city also makes an ideal starting point for unforgettable day trips to places like Sintra, Cascais, and Porto, which we’ll cover in a separate, dedicated guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit
Portugal is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is spring (April–June) and fall (September–October). During these months, the weather is warm but comfortable, crowds are thinner, and prices tend to be lower than peak summer. Summer brings long sunny days but also higher temperatures and heavier crowds, especially in Lisbon and Sintra. Winter is mild compared to much of Europe, though you can expect cooler evenings and occasional rain.
Language
Portuguese is the official language, and while pronunciation can be tricky, English is widely spoken, especially in Lisbon, Porto, and popular tourist areas. Learning a few simple phrases like “olá” (hello) and “obrigado/obrigada” (thank you) is appreciated and goes a long way with locals.
Currency & Payments
Portugal uses the Euro (€).
- Cards: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Lisbon, Porto, and most tourist areas.
- Cash: Helpful for small cafés, bakeries, taxis, markets, and tips. This is especially true in Sintra and Cascais.
- ATMs: Easy to find and reliable.
Pro tip: If asked whether to pay in euros or your home currency, always choose euros to avoid extra conversion fees.
Dining Tips & Meal Times
Meals tend to run later than in the U.S.
- Lunch: 1:00–3:00 PM
- Dinner: 7:30 PM or later
Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants. If bread, olives, or cheese appear before you order, note that these are not complimentary and can be declined.
Getting Around Lisbon
Portugal is incredibly easy to navigate, even without a car.
- Public transportation is reliable, but walking is often the best way to explore—just be prepared for hills and cobblestones. Lime scooters, Uber and Bolt are affordable and widely available.
- Rental Car: Not necessary if you’re staying in Lisbon and using trains for day trips.
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Portugal is very traveler-friendly when it comes to connectivity.
- Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafés, restaurants, and even public spaces.
- SIM Cards & eSIMs: Easy to purchase at the airport or online for reliable data.
- Cell Service: Strong coverage throughout cities and along major train routes.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products that we personally use and trust. Thanks for supporting the blog!
Where to Stay in Lisbon
Choosing the right neighborhood in Lisbon can shape your entire experience. Each area has its own personality, from historic alleyways to trendy cafés and nightlife hubs. The good news? Lisbon is compact and well-connected, so no matter where you stay, you’re never far from the action.
Baixa & Chiado (Best for First-Time Visitors)
If this is your first time in Lisbon, Baixa and Chiado are ideal home bases. These central neighborhoods are flat (a rarity in Lisbon), walkable, and close to many of the city’s top attractions.
Why stay here:
- Easy access to Praça do Comércio, Rua Augusta, and the waterfront
- Close to metro lines and tram routes
- Great mix of restaurants, shopping, and sightseeing
Good to know:
Baixa can feel busier during the day, but it quiets down at night, making it a convenient and comfortable choice.
Hotels:
- Browns Central Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel in Baixa, Lisbon, offering modern rooms in a central, walkable location just steps from Rua Augusta and Praça do Comércio.
- Almaria – Da Corte Apartments | Chiado – Serviced apartments in Chiado, Lisbon with kitchenettes, ideal for travelers seeking spacious accommodations in a central Lisbon location.
- Residentas Arco do Bandeira – Modern serviced apartments in central Lisbon, located between Baixa and Chiado with easy access to top attractions, public transportation, and dining.
Alfama (Most Charming & Historic)
For postcard-perfect Lisbon, Alfama delivers. This is the city’s oldest neighborhood, known for narrow streets, colorful tiles, and sweeping viewpoints over the Tagus River.
Why stay here:
- Authentic, historic atmosphere
- Close to São Jorge Castle and iconic miradouros
- Fado music drifting through the streets at night
Good to know:
Expect steep hills and stairs. Alfama is best for travelers comfortable with walking or relying on rideshares.
Hotels:
- Alfama – Lisbon Lounge Suites – Charming suites in Alfama, Lisbon, combining classic Portuguese character with modern comforts in one of the city’s most historic and walkable neighborhoods.
- Tandem Palácio Alfama Apartments – Stylish serviced apartments in Alfama, Lisbon, perfect for travelers who want spacious, design-forward stays minutes from São Jorge Castle and river views.
- Hotel Convento do Salvador – A unique boutique hotel in Alfama, Lisbon, set in a converted convent with elegant rooms and a serene atmosphere just steps from iconic viewpoints and Fado houses.
- ON/SET Alfama – Lisbon Cinema Apartments – Creative, movie-themed apartments in central Alfama, Lisbon, offering modern design and a fun stay in the heart of the historic old town.
Príncipe Real (Stylish & Relaxed)
Príncipe Real is a favorite for travelers who want a quieter, more local feel without sacrificing great food and design-forward spaces.
Why stay here:
- Trendy cafés, boutiques, and wine bars
- Close to Bairro Alto nightlife but more peaceful at night
- Beautiful gardens and viewpoints
Good to know:
It’s slightly uphill, but many consider the calmer vibe worth it.
Hotels:
- Mama Shelter Lisboa – A fun and stylish Príncipe Real hotel in Lisbon with vibrant design, great city views, and a lively atmosphere just steps from bars, cafés, and nightlife.
- Les Deux Mariettes Apartments & Suites – Contemporary serviced apartments in Príncipe Real, Lisbon, offering bright, modern spaces in one of the city’s trendiest and most walkable neighborhoods.
- The Haus – Alegria – Chic, design-forward apartments in Lisbon’s Príncipe Real, perfect for travelers seeking stylish, comfortable accommodations near boutique shops and local markets.
Bairro Alto (Best for Nightlife)
If you want to be close to Lisbon’s nightlife scene, Bairro Alto puts you right in the center of it all.
Why stay here:
- Bars and restaurants just outside your door
- Easy access to Chiado and Príncipe Real
Good to know:
It can be noisy at night. Choose accommodations with good soundproofing if you’re a light sleeper.
Hotels:
- 54 Santa Catarina Apartments – Stylish apartments near Bairro Alto and Santa Catarina, Lisbon, offering spacious, modern stays just steps from popular nightlife, cafés, and viewpoints.
- Dear Lisbon – Charming House – A cozy, design-forward guesthouse in central Lisbon, offering intimate, beautifully styled rooms just a short stroll from Bairro Alto’s dining and nightlife.
- Alecrim ao Chiado – A chic boutique stay in Chiado, Lisbon, combining elegant interiors with an ultra-central location perfect for exploring Bairro Alto, shopping, and historic streets.
- Chiado Camões Apartments | Lisbon Best Apartments – Contemporary apartments in the heart of Chiado, Lisbon, ideal for travelers who want comfortable, well-appointed accommodations within walking distance of Bairro Alto’s nightlife and Chiado’s culture.
Avenida da Liberdade (Modern & Upscale)
For a more polished, hotel-forward experience, Avenida da Liberdade offers wide boulevards, luxury shopping, and excellent transportation links.
Why stay here:
- Home to many of Lisbon’s top hotels
- Easy metro access
- Less hilly than surrounding neighborhoods
Good to know:
It feels more modern and less historic than other parts of Lisbon, but it’s very convenient.
Hotels:
- Heritage Avenida Liberdade – Lisbon Heritage Collection – Avenida – A refined luxury hotel on Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon, blending elegant décor with historic charm and easy access to high-end shopping and transport.
- Browns Avenue Hotel – A stylish Boutique hotel on Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon, offering modern comfort, a great location for exploring the city, and excellent city views.
- PortoBay Liberdade – A sophisticated hotel on Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon, known for its elegant design, comfortable rooms, and proximity to luxury boutiques and major metro lines.
What to Do in Lisbon
Lisbon is a city best explored slowly, with time built in for wandering, viewpoints, long lunches, and the occasional tram ride. From historic neighborhoods and iconic landmarks to food, wine, and waterfront strolls, these are the experiences not to miss.
Explore Alfama’s Historic Streets
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood and one of its most atmospheric.
- Wander narrow, tile-lined streets and hidden staircases
- Visit São Jorge Castle for panoramic city views and to explore the 11th-century, hilltop Moorish castle & royal residence with palace ruins & an archaeological museum.
- Stop at Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol for some of the arguably most beautiful views of the city and Targus river.
- Listen for traditional Fado music in the evening.
- Keep an eye out for local grandmas selling homemade ginjinha from their doorways — one of our favorite and most unexpected moments.
Stroll Through Baixa & Chiado
These central neighborhoods are perfect for sightseeing and people-watching and ideal for easing into Lisbon and getting your bearings.
- Walk along Rua Augusta to Praça do Comércio known as some of Lisbon’s most notable streets and plazas.
- Check out the Elevador de Santa Justa for city views. Pro Tip: There is a somewhat hidden path up the stairs behind the Santa Justa, if you’re short on time or don’t want to wait in the line for the lift up to the viewpoint.
- Explore Chiado’s shops, cafés, and historic theaters.
- Pop into classic pastry shops and bookshops.
Visit Belém’s Iconic Landmarks
Belém is home to some of Lisbon’s most famous sights and offers a change of pace and deeper look into Portugal’s history.
- Tour Jerónimos Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site). This Gothic Manueline-style monastery houses archaeology and maritime museums in its wings and if that’s not enough, the architecture is breathtaking.
- Walk along the river near Belém Tower and if you take a sailboat tour on the Tagus River the views of this medieval tower are incredible.
- Stop at Pastéis de Belém for the original custard tarts.
Ride Tram 28 (or Walk the Route)
Tram 28 passes through some of Lisbon’s most scenic neighborhoods.
- Best ridden early morning or late evening to avoid crowds.
- It runs through Alfama, Baixa, and Graça.
- Walking sections of the route can be just as rewarding — and less crowded.
Discover Príncipe Real
One of Lisbon’s trendiest neighborhoods with a local feel, great for slowing down and relaxing.
- Browse boutiques and concept shops.
- Relax in Príncipe Real Garden — grab a coffee and people watch.
- Enjoy wine bars and cafés popular with locals.
- Great area for a quieter evening out.
Experience Bairro Alto at Night
By day it’s quiet, but at night Bairro Alto comes alive.
- Bar-hop between tiny streets and open-air spots.
- Grab dinner nearby and stay out for drinks.
- Expect a social, casual atmosphere rather than formal nightlife.
- Easy to combine a night out in Bairro Alto with relaxing and exploring Príncipe Real or Chiado.
Explore LX Factory
A creative hub built in a former industrial complex and has a much different feel from historic Lisbon.
- Street art and design shops.
- Trendy cafés and restaurants — especially great for a casual lingering lunch.
- Visit Ler Devagar, one of Lisbon’s most unique bookstores.
A Few Fun Extras (If You’re Nearby)
These aren’t must-dos, but they’re easy, fun stops to check out if you’re already in the area or looking to fill a little extra time.
- Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho) – A quick, colorful stop known for its bright pink pavement and lively nightlife scene, especially fun to walk through in the evening.
- Time Out Market Lisboa – A bustling food hall near Cais do Sodré with a wide variety of Portuguese dishes and international options, great if you’re traveling with a group or want lots of choices in one place.
- Green Street (Rua Verde) – A charming, plant-lined street that’s become a favorite photo stop, perfect for a quick stroll or a coffee break nearby.
Some of our Favorite Lisbon Experiences
Beyond sightseeing, some of our favorite moments in Lisbon came from slowing down and leaning into food, water, and local experiences.
- Treasures of Lisboa Food Tours – One of the best ways to get oriented in the city, this guided food tour introduced us to traditional Portuguese dishes, local wine, and hidden spots we never would have found on our own.
- 2-Hour Sailboat Tour on the Tagus River – Seeing Lisbon from the water was a highlight of the trip, with sweeping views of Belém, the Ponte 25 de Abril, and the city’s iconic hills glowing in golden hour light.
- Portuguese Cooking Class – Taking a hands-on cooking class was a fun and immersive way to learn about Portuguese cuisine, from market ingredients to classic recipes we’ve since tried recreating at home.
- Beach Days Along Costa da Caparica – We spent a few laid-back beach days at Costa da Caparica, where long sandy beaches, oceanfront restaurants, and beach clubs make it easy to book a lounge bed, enjoy lunch with a view, and relax just outside Lisbon. I recommend taking an Uber and having them drop you off near Praia da Mata, we found this to be centrally located making it easy to choose from a variety of the beach clubs.
- Enjoy a Spa Day or Relaxing Afternoon – head over to THE ReTREAT – Wellness & Spa. You’ll enjoy a serene, design-led spa in Lisbon that offered the perfect mid-trip reset after days of exploring the city’s hills. Another option, Ninho Lisboa, is a nature-focused wellness retreat outside Lisbon that’s often recommended for travelers seeking a quieter, more immersive spa escape.
Shop for Thoughtful, Local Souvenirs
Rather than typical tourist shops, we loved seeking out small, local stores that highlight Portuguese craftsmanship and design.
- Loja das Conservas – A fun, colorful stop for beautifully packaged Portuguese tinned seafood, making for a unique (and easy-to-pack) Lisbon souvenir.
- Loja da Burel – Known for its high-quality Portuguese wool goods, this shop offers timeless scarves, blankets, and accessories rooted in local tradition. We picked up a throw blanket for ourselves.
- Cerâmicas na Linha – A favorite for handcrafted Portuguese ceramics, with thoughtfully designed pieces that feel special without being overly fragile or flashy. We brought home a few small dishes and espresso cups for our home.
Eat & Drink Your Way Through Lisbon
Food became one of our favorite ways to experience the city. Below is a list of our must try favorites and places on our list for next time we visit.
Favorite Bites
These were the places we actually visited and would happily return to.
- Taberna da Rua das Flores – A cozy, reservation-worthy spot serving elevated Portuguese dishes in an intimate setting. My number one recommended spot that I always send to friends.
- Dear Breakfast – Chiado – A bright, stylish café perfect for a relaxed breakfast or brunch.
- Hello, Kristof – A fun, casual stop for comforting bites and an easygoing atmosphere.
- Nicolau Lisboa – A popular all-day café known for brunch classics and welcoming vibes.
- Manjerico Alegre – A laid-back neighborhood restaurant serving traditional Portuguese fare.
- A Muralha – Tapas e Vinhos – A great place to share small plates and sample Portuguese wines.
- Manteigaria – One of the best places in Lisbon for pastéis de nata, served warm straight from the oven.
- Belcanto – A true splurge and unforgettable experience, offering refined Portuguese cuisine in a Michelin-starred setting. We tried the tasting menu, which was such a fun and unique experience like none-other.
On Our List for Next Time
Lisbon has no shortage of incredible restaurants, and these are the spots still high on our wish list.
- Gunpowder Lisboa – A modern restaurant known for bold flavors and creative dishes, offering a lively take on contemporary dining in Lisbon.
- Cork Kitchen – Comida Tradicional Portuguesa – A welcoming spot focused on traditional Portuguese cuisine, ideal for a classic, no-frills local meal.
- O Momento – Casa de Empanadas – A casual stop specializing in empanadas, perfect for a quick, flavorful bite while exploring the city.
- Las dos Manos de Kiko Martins – A chef-driven restaurant blending Portuguese and global influences with a refined, modern approach.
- 100 Maneiras – A well-known Lisbon dining destination offering an inventive tasting menu experience led by chef Ljubomir Stanisic.
- Leonetta – A stylish, relaxed restaurant combining Mediterranean flavors with a contemporary Lisbon vibe.
- Comadre – A cozy, neighborhood-style restaurant known for comforting dishes and a warm, unfussy atmosphere.
- A Cevicheria – A popular spot for Peruvian-inspired cuisine, especially known for its creative ceviche dishes.
- Tapisco Lisboa – A lively tapas bar blending Portuguese and Spanish flavors in a casual, shareable format.
- Osteria Cucina di Amici – A friendly Italian restaurant offering classic dishes in a relaxed, neighborhood setting.
- Boavista Social Club – A social, all-day spot mixing food, drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for casual dining or cocktails.
- Taberna Sal Grosso – A small, traditional-style tavern serving honest Portuguese dishes with a local feel.
- Rocco – A chic, upscale restaurant known for its glamorous setting and refined European-inspired menu.
- Alma – A Michelin-starred restaurant by chef Henrique Sá Pessoa, offering a refined and contemporary take on Portuguese cuisine.
Cocktails & Nightlife
For evenings out, Lisbon offers everything from quirky bars to rooftop views.
- Toca da Raposa – A cozy bar with a fun and creative menu, perfect for a relaxed night.
- Pavilhão Chinês – An eclectic, museum-like bar filled with vintage curiosities.
- Imprensa Cocktail and Oyster Bar – Creative cocktails paired with seafood in a stylish setting.
- Vago – A more intimate cocktail spot with thoughtful drinks.
- Park Rooftop – A casual rooftop bar with city views, best enjoyed at sunset.
- Red Frog – A speakeasy-style cocktail bar known for expertly crafted drinks.
- Monkey Mash – A lively spot blending classic and inventive cocktails.
Where to Go Next from Lisbon
One of the things we loved most about Lisbon is how easy it is to explore beyond the city. Whether you’re looking for palaces, beaches, wine, or a change of pace, these destinations are all well within reach, making Lisbon an ideal home base for day trips and short overnight stays or jumping off point to your next destination.
Sintra
Sintra feels straight out of a fairytale, with colorful palaces, romantic gardens, and misty forested hills. It’s one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon and offers a completely different atmosphere from the city.
How to get there:
A 40-minute train ride from Rossio Station makes Sintra one of the easiest and most accessible day trips from Lisbon.
Cascais
Cascais is a relaxed coastal town known for its beaches, charming old town, and seaside promenades. It’s perfect for a laid-back beach day or an easy escape from the city.
How to get there:
Take the scenic coastal train from Cais do Sodré, which reaches Cascais in about 40 minutes.
Porto
Porto offers a moodier, more traditional contrast to Lisbon, with historic riverside streets, iconic bridges, and famous port wine cellars along the Douro River.
How to get there:
High-speed trains connect Lisbon and Porto in 2.5–3 hours, making it possible as a long day trip or, even better, an overnight stay or longer.
Lagos (Algarve)
Lagos is known for dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal — ideal if you want to add a coastal, nature-focused stop to your trip.
How to get there:
Trains from Lisbon reach Lagos in about 4 hours, making it best suited for an overnight stay or longer rather than a day trip.
What’s Next: Our Guide to Portugal’s Best Day Trips
While Lisbon itself deserves time to explore slowly, some of Portugal’s most memorable experiences lie just beyond the city. In our next post, we dive deeper into how to plan the perfect day trips and short getaways from Lisbon, including Sintra, Cascais, Porto, and more — with tips on timing, transportation, and whether each destination is best as a day trip or overnight stay.
Read next: Perfect Day Trips from Lisbon: Sintra, Cascais, Porto & the Algarve
