The Best Things To See In Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history stretching back to the Roman Empire. Located on the River Tagus, it is one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in Europe, with an eclectic mix of culture and people. Lisbon is home to about two million people and is a popular tourist destination for its year-round mild climate, picturesque views, and rich culture. As a major port city, Lisbon has been an important center for trade and commerce for centuries. The city has a long and varied history, from its Moorish origins to its colonial past and its vibrant modern day culture.

Lisbon is famous for its beautiful architecture, from the ornate Manueline style of the Jeronimos Monastery to the neoclassical buildings of the Baixa district. The city also boasts picturesque squares lined with cafes, shops and restaurants. The vibrant Bairro Alto district is one of the best places to explore the city’s nightlife, while the nearby Alfama district has a more traditional feel, with its winding cobblestone streets and old-world charm. The stunning Atlantic Ocean coast is just a short drive away, making Lisbon an ideal destination for visitors looking to explore the great outdoors.

One of Lisbon’s most iconic attractions is the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the banks of the Tagus River. Built in 1519, the tower served as an important defensive structure and symbol of Portugal’s power during the Age of Discovery. Today, it stands as a reminder of the city’s rich maritime history. Nearby, visitors can explore the Jeronimos Monastery, a magnificent 16th-century monastery complex and one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. The monastery was built in honor of Henry the Navigator, who helped lead Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

Lisbon’s most popular tourist attractions are located in its picturesque downtown district. Praça do Comércio Square is a large open square located at the base of the Tagus River, with a stunning neoclassical arch designed by Italian architect Giuseppe Robba. Visitors can also explore the nearby Rossio Square, a lively central plaza surrounded by shops, restaurants and cafes. The Santa Justa Lift is another must-see attraction in Lisbon. This 19th-century elevator is an architectural marvel and offers spectacular views of the city.

The city also has several excellent museums and galleries, including the National Museum of Ancient Art and the National Museum of Contemporary Art. Visitors can explore the National Tile Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Portuguese tiles dating back to the 17th century. The Gulbenkian Museum is also worth a visit, with its extensive collection of European and Asian art.

For visitors who want to explore Lisbon’s natural beauty, there are several parks and gardens scattered throughout the city. The Jardim Botânico is a large botanical garden located in the heart of Lisbon and features a variety of plants from around the world. The Parque Eduardo VII is a large public park located in the center of Lisbon, featuring stunning views over the city and plenty of green space for visitors to explore.

One of the best ways to get an overview of Lisbon is to take one of the popular city tours offered by local companies. Many companies offer walking tours that take you around the major attractions in Lisbon, as well as coach tours that give you an overview of the entire city. These tours are a great way to get acquainted with Lisbon’s history and culture. You can also take a tour on one of Lisbon’s historic trams or take a river cruise along the Tagus River to get an even better view of the city.

For those who want to experience some of Lisbon’s unique culture and traditions, there are several popular activities available. Fado music is one of Portugal’s most famous musical styles, with performances held in many bars and clubs across Lisbon. There are also traditional Portuguese dances held throughout the city, such as the popular Festa dos Reis Magos. The annual Feira da Ladra flea market is also worth checking out for its unique selection of antiques and curiosities.

Our first recommended tour for visitors to Lisbon is a walking tour with Unique Tours Lisbon. This guided tour takes visitors around some of Lisbon’s most iconic sights, including stops at Praça do Comércio Square, Rossio Square, Belém Tower and Jeronimos Monastery. Visitors will be able to learn about the city’s history and culture from their knowledgeable guides while admiring breathtaking views of the Tagus River and surrounding areas. The tour also includes stops at some of Lisbon’s restaurants where you can sample local cuisine such as pastel de nata or bacalhau (salted cod). You can book this tour here.

Our second recommendation for visitors to Lisbon is a food tour with Portugal Food Tours. This 3-hour tour takes you around some of Lisbon’s most famous eateries, from traditional tavernas to modern restaurants. You’ll sample some of Lisbon’s most famous dishes such as cozido (stewed vegetables), pastéis de Belém (custard tarts) and bacalhau (salted cod). Your guide will also tell you about local food customs and traditions while you sample delicious Portuguese dishes. You can book this tour here.

Finally, we recommend taking a day trip to Sintra with Go2Lisbon Tours. This full-day tour departs from central Lisbon and takes visitors on a journey to some of Sintra’s most famous sights. You’ll visit the stunning Pena Palace, Palácio Nacional de Sintra and Queluz Palace before stopping for lunch at one of Sintra’s famous seafood restaurants. You’ll also have time to explore Sintra’s cobbled streets and take in its charming atmosphere before heading back to Lisbon. You can book this tour here.

Visiting Lisbon will be an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to experience a unique blend of culture, history and natural beauty. With its vibrant nightlife, delicious food and stunning architecture and landscapes, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. Whether you’re looking for historical sights or modern attractions, Lisbon has something to offer everyone who visits it.