Guide to Lisbon: The Best Things To Do

For some, Portugal’s capital city of Lisbon conjures up images of colorful tiled buildings, yellow trams, and winding cobbled streets. Nestled on the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula, Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world. The city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

From beautiful beaches to grand castles and churches, Lisbon has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene or a relaxing day at the beach, Lisbon has it all. This guide will explore the best things to do in Lisbon and provide tips on how to make the most of your time there.

Lisbon Overview

Lisbon is the largest city in Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Europe. It is located on the Tagus River in the country’s southwest corner, with an estimated population of over 500,000 people. Lisbon is the seat of Portugal’s government and home to a number of universities and colleges.

The city has a long and interesting history that dates back to ancient times when it was part of the Roman Empire. Over the centuries, it has been occupied by a variety of different cultures including the Moors, Visigoths, and Celts. This diverse history can still be seen in the city’s many monuments, churches, and other historical sites.

Today, Lisbon is known for its stunning architecture, lively culture, and vibrant nightlife. It is a popular tourist destination, with millions of visitors each year. The city is also well-known for its delicious cuisine, which combines traditional Portuguese dishes with influences from around the world.

What to See in Lisbon

No visit to Lisbon would be complete without exploring some of the city’s most famous sites. Here are some of the top sights to see in Lisbon:

Belem Tower

The Belem Tower is a 16th century fortified tower located on the banks of the Tagus River. It was built to protect Lisbon from invaders and pirates, and today it serves as a symbol of the city’s maritime heritage. The tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors are able to explore its grounds and take in stunning views of the surrounding area.

Jeronimos Monastery

The Jeronimos Monastery is a 16th century monastery located near Belem Tower. It was built in honor of Vasco de Gama and his discovery of a new route to India by sea. The monastery is a stunning example of Manueline architecture, a unique style developed in Portugal during this period. The monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open to the public.

Municipal Square

Municipal Square is one of Lisbon’s most iconic sights. Located in the heart of the city, it is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike. The square is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it an ideal spot for people-watching or grabbing a bite to eat. There is also a beautiful fountain at the center of the square that lights up at night.

Sao Jorge Castle

Sao Jorge Castle is one of Lisbon’s most impressive landmarks. Located on a hill overlooking the city, it was built in the 11th century as a defense against invaders. Today, visitors can explore its grounds and admire its stunning views of Lisbon and the Tagus River from its towers. The castle also houses a museum where visitors can learn about its history and artifacts from its time as a fortress.

Alfama District

The Alfama District is one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods and one of its most charming. Its winding streets and picturesque buildings make it a popular spot for visitors who want to explore the city’s history and culture. The district is home to some of Lisbon’s best restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as many historical landmarks such as churches and palaces.

What to Do in Lisbon

In addition to exploring its many sights, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy during their stay in Lisbon. Here are some of the best things to do in Lisbon:

Visit Museums

Lisbon is home to many museums that are worth visiting for their historical significance and their collections of art and artifacts. The National Museum of Ancient Art is one of the city’s most popular museums and features an impressive collection of art from around the world. Other notable museums include the National Museum of Natural History, the Maritime Museum, and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum.

Go Shopping

Lisbon is an excellent destination for shopping enthusiasts. The city has an array of shops that offer everything from traditional Portuguese souvenirs to designer fashion labels. Some of the best places to shop include Baixa, El Corte Ingles, and Chiado. There are also many markets where visitors can find local produce, handicrafts, and other items from around Portugal.

Enjoy Nightlife

Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife scene offers something for everyone from bars serving local craft beers to live music venues and clubs playing everything from jazz to electronic music. Popular spots include Barrio Alto, Bairro Alto, Cais do Sodre, and Rua Nova do Carvalho. For visitors looking for something more low-key, there are plenty of bars offering delicious cocktails and traditional Portuguese dishes.

Visit Beaches

When visiting Lisbon during the summer months, be sure to take advantage of its beautiful beaches. Head south along the coast to find some of Portugal’s best beaches such as Carcavelos Beach and Guincho Beach. These spots offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean as well as plenty of opportunities for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.

Tours in Lisbon

For visitors looking for a more in-depth exploration of Lisbon’s history and culture, there are several tours available that provide an overview of the city’s past and present.

Lisbon Historical Tour

This tour takes visitors through some of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks such as Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, Sao Jorge Castle, and Alfama District. The tour also includes stops at some lesser-known sights such as Roman ruins and historical monuments as well as visits to local markets where visitors can sample traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Lisbon Walking Tour

This tour provides an up-close look at some of Lisbon’s best sights including the historic Alfama District and Sao Jorge Castle. The tour includes visits to some off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods where guests can experience authentic Portuguese culture away from the crowds. The tour also includes stops at local shops and restaurants where guests can sample traditional Portuguese dishes and learn about Portuguese cuisine from local chefs.

Lisbon Food Tour

This tour takes visitors on a culinary journey through some of Lisbon’s most famous neighborhoods including Chiado and Bairro Alto. Guests will get to sample traditional Portuguese dishes such as bacalhau (codfish), caldo verde (kale soup), pastel de nata (custard tart), and more while learning about local ingredients and cooking techniques from local chefs. The tour also includes visits to some historic landmarks such as Sao Jorge Castle and Belem Tower.

Conclusion

Lisbon is a vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors from all over the world. From exploring its stunning architecture to experiencing its unique culture, there are plenty of things to do in Lisbon that will provide an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to relax on its beaches or explore its many historical sites, Lisbon has something for everyone.