What to do in Lisbon – Our Complete Guide

Portugal’s beautiful and vibrant capital city of Lisbon is one of the most exciting and interesting cities in Europe. It is famous for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, exquisite monuments, delicious food, amazing nightlife and fascinating history. With so much to offer, it can be a bit overwhelming for newcomers to the city to know where to start. Whether you are looking for fun activities to do during the day, where to go for dinner, or something a bit more adventurous — this comprehensive guide will provide all the information you need to make your trip to Lisbon absolutely unforgettable.

Overview of Lisbon

Located in the southwestern region of Portugal along the Tagus River, Lisbon is a city of nearly 500,000 inhabitants. It is renowned for its picturesque tiled streets and its engaging energy — a combination of modern and old world charm that allures locals and travelers alike.For centuries, Lisbon has been an important center for commerce, especially due to the close proximity of the Atlantic Ocean. It was a key point along the Silk Road, too, once acting as the gateway from Africa and the Middle East to Europe.

Things To Do in Lisbon

When deciding what to do in Lisbon, it’s important to plan ahead. With its many attractions, you’ll want to make sure you take advantage of as much of the city as possible. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Lisbon.

Historical Sites and Monuments

Lisbon is home to a wealth of historical sites and monuments, with some dating back as far as the 2nd century. Some of the most iconic places to visit include:

• The Castle of São Jorge – A 10th-century Moorish castle and World Heritage Site located on one of the highest points in Lisbon.
• The Monument to the Discoveries – A symbol of Portuguese maritime exploration during the Age of Discovery.
• The Belém Tower – An iconic monument built in the early 16th century to celebrate great feats in maritime exploration.
• Jerónimos Monastery – A UNESCO World Heritage site measuring 135 meters long.

Visiting these historical sites in Lisbon is a great way to really immerse yourself in its heritage and culture, as each one offers something a little bit different for visitors.

Museums and Art

Lisbon is also a great place for museum-goers, featuring some of the world’s best arts institutions, from the National Museum of Ancient Art and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum — where visitors can admire works from Monet and Matisse — to more obscure places like the Museu da Marioneta (Puppet Museum). The city also hosts some free museums like Museum of Portuguese Music, featuring musical instruments from all over Portugal — as well as a few temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Eating in Lisbon

Foodie travelers won’t be disappointed in Lisbon either, thanks to its many culinary delights on offer. The city offers an impressive variety of dishes inspired by Portugal’s varied history — from its stunning seafood specialties like bacalhau (dried cod fish) and polvo (octopus), to traditional Tavares style dishes featuring sausages, cured meats and vegetables. The best way to find great food in Lisbon is by walking around — be sure to check out one of the city’s many historical neighborhoods like Baixa, Chiado or Rossio for some excellent restaurants. If you’re looking for something more upscale than traditional Portuguese cuisine, be sure to visit nearby neighborhoods like Bairro Alto or Príncipe Real for their many gourmet restaurants.

Nightlife

When the sun goes down in Lisbon, that’s when things start heating up! The city’s nightlife scene is renowned for its live entertainment and bustling bars—which usually means it’s not uncommon to see people partying until dawn. If you’re looking for live music, you won’t be disappointed — with plenty of small clubs offering everything from jazz to folk, reggae to samba. For something a bit more intimate and low-key, then try your luck at one of Lisbon’s many lively taverns and bars—from ultra-trendy speakeasies and wine bars to cozy pubs playing classic rock tunes—all within walking distance from one another.

Where To Stay in Lisbon

When looking for the best places to stay in Lisbon there plenty of great options available—from budget-friendly guesthouses close to the city centre, to classic hotels overlooking the Tagus River. Prices vary depending on location and how close you are to popular attractions. For something close by all the action but still within a budget, try staying somewhere near Câmara de Lobos, or nearby Alfama or Intendente — Lisbon’s trendiest neighborhoods close to nightlife hubs and some fantastic eating spots. For those who prefer more luxury accommodation, there are plenty of five star hotels around Marquês de Pombal Square and Avenida da Liberdade — a popular commercial street offering plenty of designer shops, elegant cafés and top-notch restaurants.

Conclusion

Lisbon is an incredibly diverse city with much to offer for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for something cultural, like exploring its many historical sites; gourmet flavors like delicious traditional meals; or wild nights out at some of its famous clubs — there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. No matter what type of traveler you are, with this comprehensive guide — we hope your trip to Lisbon will be one you won’t soon forget!