Must See Things in Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in the Western world, is a destination full of captivating history, stunning architecture, and exciting activities for visitors of all ages. From its history as an important trading port to its vibrant nightlife and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Lisbon is a city that has something for everyone. With its beautiful Mediterranean climate, vibrant history, and rich culture, this city is sure to leave you with a lasting impression.

A Brief History of Lisbon

Lisbon has a long and colorful history that dates back over 3,000 years. It was once the capital of the Roman province of Lusitania, and later became an important trading port for explorers like Vasco da Gama. During the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries, Lisbon was an essential port for trade and the slave trade between Europe, Africa, and the New World.

The city suffered a major earthquake in 1755, which destroyed much of the city’s infrastructure and killed over 60,000 people. In the centuries since then, Lisbon has been rebuilt and modernized and is now one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. Today, Lisbon has a population of over 500,000 people and is a thriving metropolis with bustling commercial districts, world-class museums, and stunning parks.

Things to See in Lisbon

Lisbon is filled with incredible historical attractions and monuments that visitors will not want to miss. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the grand Castelo de São Jorge, a fortified castle that was built in the 11th century and stands atop one of Lisbon’s seven hills. The castle offers sweeping views of the city below and is a great place to explore. The Jerónimos Monastery is another must-see attraction in Lisbon. Built in the 16th century by King Manuel I as a gesture of thanks for Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India, it is an architectural masterpiece that features ornate details and intricate carvings.

The Belém Tower is another one of Lisbon’s iconic landmarks. This 16th century fortress was built to protect the city from invasions from the sea and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the grounds and take in stunning views of the Tagus River. The nearby Monument to the Discoveries is another great attraction that pays tribute to Portugal’s past explorers.

Things to Do in Lisbon

When it comes to things to do in Lisbon, there is something for everyone. From exploring its diverse neighborhoods to enjoying its lively nightlife, Lisbon has something for everyone.

Explore Lisbon’s Neighborhoods

Lisbon has many unique neighborhoods that offer visitors a diverse range of experiences. From the picturesque streets of Alfama to the hipster vibes of Bairro Alto, each neighborhood has its own distinct personality. Visitors can explore these neighborhoods on foot or take a funicular ride to get an aerial view of the city.

Go Shopping

Lisbon is home to some of the best shopping in Europe, with plenty of markets and stores offering local goods as well as international brands. Bairro Alto is known for its vintage stores and trendy boutiques, while Chiado is home to larger stores like Zara and H&M. The Feira da Ladra flea market is another great place to find unique items from local merchants.

Experience Nightlife

No trip to Lisbon is complete without experiencing its famous nightlife. Bairro Alto is known for its lively bars and clubs, while Alfama is home to more laid-back bars where visitors can sample some of Portugal’s famous wines and spirits.

Tours in Lisbon

Lisbon offers exciting tours for visitors looking to explore the city in depth.

Lisbon Vintage Car Tour

Explore Lisbon’s historic sights while cruising along in a classic vintage car with this unique tour. The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation in a classic Fiat 500 or other vintage car and takes you on an exciting drive through the streets of Lisbon. You’ll get to experience the sights and sounds of Lisbon as you drive along cobblestone streets and past iconic landmarks like Castelo de São Jorge, Jerónimos Monastery, and Belém Tower. Along the way, your guide will tell you about the city’s history and culture and you’ll get plenty of opportunities for photos. At the end of the tour, you’ll be dropped off back at your hotel or accommodation. This tour offers a unique way to experience Lisbon in style!

Walking Tour of Alfama

Discover the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon on this walking tour through Alfama. This tour takes visitors through the winding streets of this historic neighborhood while they learn about its unique culture and history from their knowledgeable guide. You’ll visit some of Alfama’s most important sites including São Miguel Church, National Pantheon, Lisbon Cathedral, and more. You’ll also get to experience some of Alfama’s traditional culture such as its lively Fado music scene. At the end of the tour, you’ll have seen some of Lisbon’s most iconic sights from a local perspective and experienced its unique culture firsthand. This tour offers a chance to explore Alfama like a local!

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Take in all that Lisbon has to offer with this Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour that takes you around the city on an open-top bus. This tour gives you unlimited access to several different routes throughout Lisbon so that you can get off wherever you’d like to explore or hop back on if you want to continue on your journey around town. You’ll get to see some of Lisbon’s most iconic sights from Castelo de São Jorge to Torre de Belém and learn interesting facts about each site from your onboard audio guide as you go along. This tour offers an easy way to explore all that Lisbon has to offer!

Conclusion

From its majestic monuments and stunning architecture to its unique neighborhoods and vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone in Lisbon. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or just want to take in some spectacular views, this city has it all! With its Mediterranean climate, friendly locals, and interesting attractions, Lisbon is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and come experience all that Lisbon has to offer!