Things to do in Lisbon This Weekend

Lisbon is the capital and largest city of Portugal, and one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in Europe. With its cobbled streets, rolling hills, and seaside cliffs, Lisbon is a city steeped in both tradition and culture, with one foot firmly planted in the past and another in the present. From its rich history to its exciting nightlife and unique cuisine, there is no shortage of things to do and explore in Lisbon. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an exciting weekend adventure, Lisbon has something for everyone.

A Brief History of Lisbon

Lisbon has been settled since the 8th century BC, and was home to the Celts, Visigoths, and Romans before coming under Moorish control in the 8th century AD. In 1147, the city was taken back by Christian forces, who turned it into the capital of the Kingdom of Portugal. Over the centuries, Lisbon has been destroyed by several catastrophic earthquakes, yet has always risen from the ashes, becoming an even more vibrant and beautiful city.

Today, Lisbon is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 500,000 people, making it the 11th largest city in the European Union. With its picturesque beaches, charming churches, and world-class museums, it is no surprise that Lisbon has become one of the most visited cities in Europe.

What to Do in Lisbon

Lisbon is a city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an exciting weekend adventure, Lisbon has something for you. Here are some of the top activities and attractions that should not be missed while visiting Lisbon:

Explore Alfama

The historic Alfama district is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon and has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Its narrow cobblestone streets are lined with charming cafes and restaurants, as well as some of the city’s best-preserved architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through Alfama’s winding streets and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Take a Ride on Tram 28

Tram 28 is one of the most iconic sights in Lisbon and is an experience that should not be missed. This vintage tram takes visitors on a journey through some of Lisbon’s most beautiful neighborhoods, including Alfama and Graça. A ride on tram 28 is not only an opportunity to explore some of Lisbon’s best attractions but also to take in some stunning views of the city.

Visit Belem Tower

The Belem Tower is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks and was built in 1515 to commemorate the Portuguese Age of Discovery. The tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers breathtaking views of the Tagus River. It is also home to a variety of interesting exhibits that tell the story of Portugal’s Age of Discovery.

Sip Port Wine at ViniPortugal

ViniPortugal is a unique wine bar located in Cais do Sodre. It offers a selection of some of Portugal’s finest wines, as well as delicious tapas and snacks. The bar is a great place to relax and sample some of Portugal’s best wines while enjoying stunning views of the Tagus River.

Explore the National Tile Museum

The National Tile Museum is located in the Santa Maria de Belém district and is dedicated to preserving Portugal’s unique ceramic tile heritage. The museum offers visitors a chance to view some of Portugal’s best examples of tile making, as well as learn about its history and production techniques.

Take a Food Tour

Lisbon is home to some of Europe’s most delicious cuisine. To really get an in-depth understanding of the city’s culinary scene, take a food tour with one of Lisbon’s many experienced tour guides. On these tours, you will be taken to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars where you can sample some of Portugal’s best dishes.

Visit Sintra

The village of Sintra is located just outside of Lisbon and is home to some of Portugal’s most stunning palaces and gardens. A visit to Sintra is like stepping into another world, with its lush forests, colorful palaces, and unique culture. Take a day trip to Sintra and explore its many attractions such as the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Castelo dos Mouros.

Tours Around Lisbon

A great way to explore Lisbon is to take a tour with an experienced guide who can show you all the best sights and attractions in the city. Here are two popular tours that are perfect for those looking to explore Lisbon:

Full-Day Private Tour: Best of Lisbon & Sintra

This full-day private tour gives visitors a chance to explore both Lisbon and Sintra on their own schedule. On this tour, you will get to visit some of Lisbon’s most iconic attractions such as Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and Rossio Square. You will also get to explore Sintra’s many palaces and gardens such as Quinta da Regaleira, Pena Palace, and Castelo dos Mouros. This tour also includes lunch at one of Sintra’s most renowned restaurants. At the end of the tour, you will have a chance to explore Sintra’s charming village on your own before heading back to Lisbon. Book this full-day private tour for a truly unforgettable experience.

Half-Day Cascais & Estoril Tour

This half-day tour takes visitors just outside of Lisbon to explore two charming coastal towns – Cascais and Estoril. On this tour, you will get to explore Cascais’ beautiful beaches, quaint fishing villages, and cobblestone streets. You will also get to visit Estoril’s elegant Casino as well as take a leisurely stroll through its lush gardens. This tour also includes lunch at one of Cascais’ renowned seafood restaurants as well as free time at both towns for shopping or exploring on your own. Book this half-day Cascais & Estoril tour for an escape from Lisbon’s hustle and bustle into two charming coastal towns.

Conclusion

Lisbon is a city full of history, culture, and charm that should not be missed on any trip to Europe. There is no shortage of things to do in this vibrant city, from exploring its cobbled streets to sampling some of its delicious cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an exciting weekend adventure, Lisbon has something for everyone. Don’t forget to take advantage of its unique tours offering an even deeper exploration into this incredible city!