What Can I Do in Lisbon on a Rainy Day?

Depending on your interests and preferences, there’s plenty you can do in Lisbon on a rainy day, from checking out the city’s monuments and museums to quirky cultural pastimes. Whether you have a day or a week, taking some time to explore the indoors of Lisbon can be both entertaining and educational.

Visit the Monuments and Museums

One of the best ways to spend time in Lisbon is to check out its monuments and museums. The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga houses an extensive collection of artwork from Portugal, a must visit for art lovers. Similarly, The Maritime Museum is an excellent place to learn about Portugal’s seafaring past. Those with an interest in history should also visit the National Pantheon, located in one of the city’s beautiful gardens.

Check Out the Shops

From its famous flea markets to modern department stores, Lisbon offers plenty of opportunity for retail therapy. On rainy days, the many shopping malls in the city are great places to explore. The most famous is Armazens do Chiado, where you can find several floors filled with boutiques and brand stores. Other great malls include Centro Colombo and Alegro Alfragide which has everything from departments stores to themed restaurants.

Explore the Quirky Cultural Practices

Lisbon also offers many quirky cultural activities for those interested. The Street Art Walk is an exciting way to explore the unique street art scene in the city. You can also join a Fado Night, where musicians come together in one of Lisbon’s taverns to play traditional music. Looking to do something more interactive? Learn to make Pasteis de Nata, the famous custard tarts or take a local ginjinha tour where you sample some of the local specialty wines.

Catch Up on Some Reading

No rainy day would be complete without some good old fashioned reading. Lisbon offers several great independent bookstores for those craving some literary pleasure. Livraria Lello is one of the most famous in the city, selling a wide selection from classic literature to more modern books. Other favorite bookstores include Bertrand Chiado and The Filigree Supply Company both of which are filled with interesting gems from all over the world.

Take in a Show

Finally, both theater and music fans alike can take in a show on a rainy day in Lisbon. Often considered one of the world’s premier theater cities, the city hosts many performances throughout the year. From drama to comedy and classical plays, there is something for everyone wanting to experience live entertainment in Lisbon. Alternatively, hear some Fado music at Clube de Fado or experience some alternative music at Musicbox.

No matter what your interests are or how you want to spend your time in Lisbon, there are plenty of enjoyable activities to explore on a rainy day. From sightseeing to tasting, shopping to listening—this compact city offers an abundance of experiences and cultural attractions that can be enjoyed even when it’s raining. For more information about what Lisbon has to offer, check out visitlisboa.com, an up-to-date website with all the latest news about Lisbon’s attractions and activities.

Insider’s Guide: Things to do in Lisbon on a Rainy Day

Rainy days can put a damper on your travel plans, but don’t worry, Lisbon still has plenty of activities to offer even if the weather isn’t cooperating. Here is an insider’s guide to the things you can do in Lisbon on a rainy day.

Explore the Museums

Lisbon is home to a variety of museums that cater to diverse genres. Some of the most popular museums in Lisbon include the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, the National Tile Museum, showcasing the art of tile painting and installation; the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, housing a remarkable collection of international art spanning from the Neolithic period to the twentieth century; and the National Museum of Ancient Art, exhibiting a collection of paintings from renowned artists such as Rubens and Bosch.

Indulge in Traditional Portuguese Cuisine

A rainy day in Lisbon is an opportunity to indulge in authentic Portuguese cuisine. The city is renowned for its seafood, including dishes like bacalhau (salt cod) and grilled sardines. You can find world-class seafood restaurants at Cais do Sodré or Ribeira das Naus, with menus ranging from traditional seafood to new-fangled dishes. If you have a sweet tooth, then Lisbon pastries will leave you drooling; try local favourites like pastel de nata, queijadas, and bolo-rei.

Visit Cultural Centres

Lisbon is a city with rich culture and boasts a variety of cultural centres where you can experience performances and exhibitions. Visit the Centro Cultural de Belém, where you will find modern art exhibitions and performances or watch a movie at the Cinema Sao Jorge. For something more contemporary, visit the MUDE, the Museum of Design and Fashion. Alternatively, visit the Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian and enjoy a performance by the Gulbenkian Orchestra.

Learn About Local History

If you want to learn more about the rich history of Lisbon, then visit the Lisbon Story Center. The cultural centre offers a multimedia tour that takes visitors on a journey through the history of Lisbon. Visit the Convento do Carmo, which is one of the few medieval ruins in Lisbon that survived the 1755 earthquake. Alternatively, explore the Castelo de Sao Jorge or Jeronimos Monastery, two of the most iconic landmarks that offer breathtaking views of the city.

Go Shopping

Lisbon’s shopping centres offer an escape from the rain. The Chiado, one of the most popular shopping districts in the city, has a range of shops selling souvenirs, clothing, books, and more. Alternatively, visit the multi-level shopping centres, Armazéns do Chiado or El Corte Inglés, which has a range of local and international brands.

Get off the Beaten Path

If you’re willing to venture off the beaten path, Lisbon has plenty to offer. For a unique experience, visit the LX Factory, a complex of abandoned factories that have been transformed into art galleries, shops, and restaurants. For the adventurous, visit the Oceanario de Lisboa, the largest indoor aquarium in Europe, or explore the underground tunnels of the Lisbon Metro.

Rainy days in Lisbon don’t have to be dull; it’s a city full of activities that can make your trip memorable. So, grab your umbrella, put on your walking shoes, and explore the city in all its rainy glory!