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Lisbon flourishes through the blend of ancient wonders and contemporary lifestyle.
The city has a rich history, with notable places like the Sao Jorge castle and Baixa squares. The streets of the Portuguese capital are filled with numerous famous landmarks, diverse architecture, and hidden gems, serving as reminders of its past, which can be both inspiring and somber.
The tramlines from the 20th century cater to both visitors and residents, while the charming districts are home to the most popular events in the city. Additionally, traditional recipes dating back centuries are still used to make the beloved custard tart, a popular snack in the city for countless years.
Add in visits to historic monuments or hilltop viewpoints, and you’ll soon become aware that most of the best things to do in Lisbon are intrinsically tied to the history of the city. To help you discover both the modern city and its past, we’ve rounded up a list of some of our favourites.
Discover the city center and Alfama district.
Downtown is occasionally referred to as Baixa Pombalina in honor of the Marques de Pombal, who oversaw the reconstruction of the neighborhood after the earthquake.
The Baixa area is Lisbon’s delightful downtown, the historic heart of the city where a grid of elegant, paved streets lead northwest from the vast waterside of Praca do Comercio to the impressive Rossio Square. This is where you’ll find the majority of international brands and hotel chains, though there’s plenty of local flavour and a dazzling array of architecture dating from 1755, the year of an earthquake that levelled much of the city.
Neighbouring Alfama, the home of the Sao Jorge castle, is also worth exploring for its winding alleys, shaded courtyards and abundance of indie shops and restaurants. Start at the castle and follow the routes down the hillside, making your way to the riverside, while spending some time getting blissfully lost in the area’s mazy streets.
Learn more about traveling in Portugal.
Take the 28 Tram
In Lisbon, there are multiple trams that are still running, with the 28 being the most well-known for its historical significance.
Trams in cities like San Francisco and Prague evoke a sense of nostalgia and appeal, harking back to the past yet remaining a vital mode of transport for residents. Lisbon is another example, boasting a widespread tram system.
Riding the 28 tram in Lisbon is a unique experience for tourists. This line, which was established in 1914, travels from Campo de Orique in the west to Martim Moniz near Castelo de Sao Jorge. To increase your chances of getting a seat, board at one of these stops. As you journey through the city, you’ll pass through charming neighborhoods such as Alfama, Graca, and Estrela, and admire the beautiful architecture along the way.
Visit LX Factory
In 2009, LX Factory was established.
LX Factory is situated near the shoreline, approximately midway between the central area of the city and Belem, in the district of Alcantara. It is a hub of diverse global cuisines, unique independent stores, and charming bars, all housed within former tile factories and industrial warehouses. This creates a hip atmosphere that attracts a youthful and occasionally touristy crowd.
This complex has it all, from a hostel with rooftop bar to Mexican, Argentinian and local cuisine. There’s an eclectic range of shops too, from tattoo parlours and art studios to children’s clothing stores and vintage boutiques.
Experience a traditional Portuguese custard tart at Pasteis de Belem.
According to legend, the initial location for serving pasteis was at the neighboring Jeronimos Monastery.
Portuguese custard tarts, also known as pasteis de nata, are a popular treat found in shops, cafes, and restaurants all over Lisbon (and the rest of Portugal). While you can easily find them when you order coffee, one of the top spots to sample them is at Pasteis de Belem in Belem.
In 1837, the foundations of this tart empire were laid with a unique and confidential recipe that is still being used today. The delectable pasteis are available for purchase at a small counter within the cafe, but the tearooms located in the back, adorned with vibrant azulejo tiles, are worth the wait in line to experience a slice of Portuguese history while indulging in custard infused with cinnamon and a delicate pastry.
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Bairro Alto in the city.
The name Bairro Alto can be translated as either ‘high district’ or ‘upper neighborhood’.
The Bairro Alto in Lisbon is a lively neighbourhood with charming streets perfect for discovering viewing spots, cozy bars, and cafes. However, it truly comes to life in the evening. This area is known as the city’s nightlife hub, with numerous bars that stay open until the wee hours of the morning. Visitors will find a mix of locals, expats, and tourists socializing and having a good time, with a focus on enjoyment rather than excessive drinking (although the affordable prices may make it hard to resist). As a result, many bars spill out onto the cobblestone streets, creating a delightful atmosphere that lasts late into the night.
Climb up to the Sao Jorge castle.
The earliest fortifications found on the castle grounds can be traced back to the 2nd century.
The Sao Jorge Castle towers above the hill bearing its name, commanding a prominent presence in Lisbon and serving as a powerful symbol of the city’s rich past. Its origins date back to 200 BC and it underwent significant renovations in the 1940s, solidifying its place as a top destination for visitors.
Visiting the castle is definitely worth it just for the breathtaking views of the city. From the vibrant blue Tagus River to the charming rooftops of Alfama, Chiado, and more, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas that will leave you in awe.
It is not surprising that the castle is a popular attraction in the city. To avoid waiting in lines and large crowds, purchase tickets online and try to visit in the late afternoon when it is less crowded and hot. The journey to reach the castle is more like a hike than a simple walk.
Visit both the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery during your trip.
The Belem train station can be easily reached from Cais do Sodre in under 10 minutes. From there, it is only a 20-minute walk to the Tower.
Two popular attractions in Lisbon are situated outside of the city, taking about 90 minutes to walk or 30 minutes by train to reach in the Belem district. This relaxed area sits alongside the Tagus River and is definitely worth a visit to see the Belem Tower and the stunning Jeronimos Monastery.
The first structure, which dates back to the 16th century, served as both a gateway and a defensive tower for the city. It is now a well-preserved mini fortress and a popular destination for cycling trips from central Lisbon. The second building, a grand Gothic construction adorned with numerous elaborate details, was constructed over the course of a century to honor the renowned explorer Vasco de Gama. It eventually became the residence of the monks of the Order of Saint Jerome, who are credited with creating the famous pastel de nata pastry.
Enjoy the scenic vista from a miradouro.
Lisbon has many vantage points, rooftop bars, and accessible areas where tourists can take in breathtaking views of the city.
Lisbon is famous for its seven hills, and although exploring the city on foot can be exhausting, those who appreciate stunning views are in for a treat. The city’s topography offers numerous spectacular viewpoints, called “miradouros” in Portuguese.
The Portas do Sol, located southeast of Castelo Sao Jorge, is a highly frequented spot due to its terrace bar, occasional DJ, and stunning views of the Tagus River. For a more peaceful experience, the Miradouro da Graca offers a quieter atmosphere a bit further inland. The Panoramico do Monsanto, previously a nightclub and upscale restaurant, is situated in a large park and boasts panoramic views of the western part of the city. The Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte is the highest point in the city and offers equally impressive views of the city, castle, and waterways.
Go on a short excursion outside of the city.
Two of the most well-liked excursions from Lisbon are Sintra and Cascais.
Although Lisbon has many amazing sights to see, it takes more than a long weekend to fully explore them. Some tourists choose to spend a day visiting neighboring towns while staying in the city. Others prefer to check out the nearby beaches and surfing towns like Carcavelos, Nazare, and Ericeira. In fact, some even end up staying longer than planned in Cascais, a popular town known for its stunning scenery and quaint town center, as well as its fantastic surfing opportunities (which can be reached in about 40 minutes from Cais do Sodre station).
Lisbon’s beach may have its advantages, but the most sought-after excursion is to Sintra, a charming town nestled in the mountains and surrounded by lush vegetation. The town is also known for its magnificent castles, with the Pena Palace being the most remarkable. This extravagant 19th-century palace was originally designed as a summer retreat for the royal family.
Take a look at our top picks for hotels in Portugal and see what other customers have to say about their experiences.
Source: independent.co.uk
