Things to Do in Lisbon Today

Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, is one of Europe’s most popular destinations. Located on the banks of the Tagus River in southwestern Portugal, Lisbon has served as a major trading port and cultural center since the 16th century. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and diverse cultural attractions, Lisbon has much to offer visitors. Whether you’re visiting for a day, a week, or a month, there’s plenty of things to do in Lisbon today.

A Brief History of Lisbon

Lisbon has been occupied since pre-Roman times, but it was the Romans who established the city as an important port. The city flourished during the Age of Discovery and was a major hub for trading between Europe and Asia during the 16th and 17th centuries. In 1755, a massive earthquake and subsequent tsunami devastated much of the city, leaving it in ruins. Over the next few centuries, Lisbon was rebuilt and modernized and today it is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.

Famous Attractions in Lisbon

There is no shortage of attractions in Lisbon. From grand squares to grand palaces, Lisbon is filled with famous sights. The most popular attractions include:

• São Jorge Castle – The ancient castle overlooking the city offers stunning views from its walls and towers.
• Belém Tower – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a symbol of the Age of Discovery.
• Mosteiro dos Jerónimos – This ornate monastery is one of the most beautiful churches in Europe.
• Santa Justa Lift – This iconic elevator offers panoramic views of the city.
• Alfama District – This picturesque district is a labyrinth of winding streets and colorful homes.

What to Do in Lisbon Today

There is no shortage of things to do in Lisbon today. Whether you’re looking for something unique or just want to explore the city, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Explore Lisbon’s Neighborhoods

One of the best ways to explore Lisbon is by walking through its many neighborhoods. From trendy Chiado to the vibrant Bairro Alto, each neighborhood has its own distinct character and charm. Spend a day walking through the streets and exploring the shops, restaurants, and cafes in each neighborhood.

Take a Cruise on the Tagus River

The Tagus River is the lifeblood of Lisbon. Take a cruise on the river and enjoy spectacular views of the city’s iconic landmarks. Many companies offer cruises ranging from one hour to all day excursions.

Visit Lisbon’s Museums

Lisbon has some of the best museums in Europe. From the world-renowned Calouste Gulbenkian Museum to the charming National Tile Museum, there are plenty of options to choose from. Spend a day wandering through the galleries and learning about Portugal’s history and culture.

Enjoy Lisbon’s Nightlife

Lisbon has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Spend an evening enjoying live music or dancing until dawn.

Go Shopping in Lisbon

Lisbon has some great shopping options. From designer boutiques to street markets, there is something for everyone. Spend an afternoon browsing through Lisbon’s shops and picking up souvenirs to take home.

Popular Tours in Lisbon

In addition to exploring on your own, there are also many popular tours in Lisbon that will give you an even better experience of the city.

Lisbon City Tour

Explore the highlights of Lisbon on a guided tour of the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions. Visit iconic sights like São Jorge Castle and the Belém Tower, learn about Lisbon’s history from your guide, and discover hidden gems and local favorites. You can book a City Tour here.

Lisbon Sightseeing Cruise

See the city from a different perspective on a sightseeing cruise on the Tagus River. Enjoy views of Lisbon’s iconic landmarks from the water and learn about the city’s history from your guide. You can book a Sightseeing Cruise here.

Lisbon Tapas Tour

Experience the flavors of Lisbon on a Tapas Tour of the city’s best restaurants and bars. Sample traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau and arroz de pato, sip on some local wines, and learn about Lisbon’s culinary culture from your guide. You can book a Tapas Tour here.

Conclusion

From grand palaces to hidden gems, there are plenty of things to do in Lisbon today. Explore the city’s neighborhoods on foot, take a cruise on the Tagus River, visit some of Lisbon’s famous attractions, enjoy its vibrant nightlife scene, go shopping, or take a guided tour of some of Lisbon’s best restaurants and bars. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Lisbon, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.