Things To See In Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital, is one of the most vibrant and beautiful cities in the world. With a rich history dating back to the 15th century and a unique culture heavily influenced by its seafaring past, Lisbon is a mesmerizing city that has plenty of sights to explore. From its iconic landmarks and iconic monuments, to its many art galleries and other attractions, Lisbon is sure to satisfy any curious traveller.

History of Lisbon

The city of Lisbon dates back to the mid-15th century when it was founded by Alfonso I of Portugal. Since then, the city has seen its share of changes, from being pillaged by the Spanish Armada in 1580 to being devastated by a powerful earthquake in 1755. Despite these tragedies, Lisbon has managed to remain a vibrant city and is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Lisbon is known for its unique blend of culture, with influences from its seafaring past, its Moorish heritage and its Catholic background. Today, the city is a bustling metropolis with a population of more than 500,000 people. While it still retains its old-world charm and traditional architecture, Lisbon has also become a modern city with a bustling nightlife, a variety of cultural attractions and some of the best restaurants in Europe.

What To Do in Lisbon

Lisbon is a city full of attractions, from its iconic monuments and landmarks to its many art galleries, museums and other attractions. Here are some of the best things to do in Lisbon:

Explore the City’s Iconic Landmarks

One of the best ways to experience Lisbon is to explore its many iconic landmarks. The Belem Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the city, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1520 as part of Lisbon’s defensive system, this iconic tower is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. You can also visit Jeronimos Monastery which was built in 1502 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery is an impressive example of Portugal’s Manueline architecture and is definitely worth a visit.

Other iconic landmarks include Sao Jorge Castle which was built in 1147 and is one of the oldest castles in Portugal. The castle offers stunning views over Lisbon and is a popular tourist attraction. The Monument to the Discoveries is another popular landmark which celebrates Portugal’s age of exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. The monument is located on the banks of the Tagus River and offers stunning views of the city.

Visit Museums and Art Galleries

Lisbon has a wealth of museums and art galleries for visitors to explore. The National Museum of Ancient Art is one of the best museums in Lisbon and it houses an impressive collection of European art from the 14th to 19th centuries. The Museum of Decorative Arts is another popular attraction which features an extensive collection of furniture, textiles, ceramics and other decorative arts from around the world.

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is another museum worth visiting in Lisbon. The museum houses one of the largest private collections of art in the world, with works from European masters such as Rembrandt, Velasquez and Monet. The museum also features an impressive collection of Islamic, Far Eastern and African art.

Experience Nightlife

Lisbon is known for its vibrant nightlife scene and there are many places to explore during the night. The Bairro Alto district is one of the most popular nightlife spots in Lisbon, with plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs to choose from. The Alfama district is also popular for its lively bars and restaurants, as well as its traditional fado music venues. The Docas district is known for its trendy bars and clubs which offer a great atmosphere for a night out in Lisbon.

Book a Food Tour

For an unforgettable culinary experience, book a food tour with Viator that will take you through some of Lisbon’s most popular restaurants and markets. You will have the chance to sample traditional Portuguese dishes such as bacalhau and pasteis de nata as well as other local delicacies. During your tour you will also have the opportunity to learn more about Lisbon’s history and culture as you explore some of its most interesting neighbourhoods. This tour will give you an insight into Lisbon’s vibrant culture and provide you with an unforgettable experience. Book a Food Tour in Lisbon here.

Take a Guided Walking Tour

Discover the beauty of Lisbon with a guided walking tour with GetYourGuide that will take you through some of the city’s most interesting neighbourhoods. You will have the chance to explore some of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks such as Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery and Sao Jorge Castle as well as some lesser known sights such as Alfama district and Bairro Alto district. This tour will give you a unique insight into Lisbon’s history, culture and architecture as well as some interesting stories about the city. Book a Guided Walking Tour in Lisbon here.

Visit Sintra

Sintra is one of Portugal’s most magical towns and it is located just outside of Lisbon. With its castles, palaces and lush gardens it is definitely worth spending at least one day exploring this picturesque town. You can visit the Pena Palace which was once the summer residence of Portugal’s royal family or explore Quinta da Regaleira which was built in 1904 by an Italian millionaire who designed it to resemble a fairytale castle. If you have time you can also visit Moors Castle which overlooks the town or Capuchos Convent which was built by Franciscan monks in the 16th century. Book a Sintra Day Trip here.

Conclusion

Lisbon is an enchanting city full of sights to explore, from its iconic landmarks to its many museums and galleries. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed day out or just want to soak up some local culture, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in this vibrant Portuguese capital. Whether it’s exploring Sintra or embarking on one of Lisbon’s food or walking tours, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience in this charming city.