21 Best Things To Do in Lisbon, Portugal (3-Day Guide)

Looking for the best things to do in Lisbon, Portugal? Lisbon is a vibrant and historical destination that offers a wide range of activities and attractions. From its charming cobblestone streets and colorful buildings to its delicious cuisine and cultural landmarks, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful city. Let this Lisbon travel guide introduce you to the top 21 things to do in Lisbon.

Things To Do in Lisbon – Day 1

Spend your first day in Lisbon in the Alfama area, the oldest district in the city. It’s a captivating maze of narrow streets and vibrant cultural expressions.

1. Explore Alfama – Best Thing To Do In Lisbon

When you picture Lisbon, you’re likely imagining charming cobblestone streets, colorful tiled buildings, and old trams rolling through narrow lanes. The Alfama area is home to all of this, making it the perfect spot to explore on your first day in Lisbon.

➳ If you’d like to dive deeper into Lisbon’s history, consider joining a guided walking tour.

2. Enjoy The View From A ‘Miradouro’ – Best Free Thing To Do In Lisbon

Because of its many hills Lisbon, and especially Alfama, has many miradouros, or viewpoints, each offering breathtaking panoramas of the city and the glistening Tagus River.

In Alfama you have two especially scenic viewpoints, Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Miradouro de Santa Luzia is my personal favorite, with a gorgeous lush garden and walls adorned with traditional blue azulejos (Portuguese tiles).

➳ Tips! Visit Miradouro de Santa Luzia early in the morning to enjoy some privacy, and that beautiful morning light over Lisbon and Tagus River.

3. Visit Sé Catedral

One thing you should not miss in Alfama is the Lisbon Cathedral, or Sé de Lisboa. This impressive church, dating back to the 12th century, is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.

In the heart of Alfama, the cathedral rises like a fortress with its two impressive bell towers. The cathedral is open from 9.30 am to 7.00 pm during summer months (10.00 am to 6.00 pm during winter) and costs €5 to enter.

➳ Tips! Dear Breakfast is a great place for lunch in the area. See all restaurant recommendations in Lisbon.

4. Tram 28 – Top Thing To Do in Lisbon

Tram 28 is a tram line that goes from Martim Moniz square through the winding, hilly streets of Alfama, passing all the major landmarks on one route. Because of this, taking Tram 28 has become one of the most popular things to do in Lisbon.

This historic tram line connects Martim Moniz with Alfama, Baixa, and up the hill to Chiado, Graca and Estrela. A single ticket costs €3, so this is definitely one of the cheapest ways you can explore the city.

Taking Tram 28 through Alfama is a must, but if you have time it can be worth going the whole way through Lisbon.

➳ See all your hotel options in Lisbon

As this is one of the most popular things to do in Lisbon, the tram often gets full. My suggestion is to jump on at the first station Martim Moniz to be sure you get a seat. There might be a queue already from this first station, so make sure to be there early. You can purchase the ticket from the tram.

➳ Tips! Want to take an iconic photograph of the old tram rolling through Alfama’s narrow streets? Head to this location!

5. Listen to Fado Music at a Fado House

Alfama is the heart of Fado, Portugal’s soulful traditional music. Visiting a local Fado house, or “Casa de Fado”, in the evening is a memorable cultural experience. Here, you can enjoy heartfelt performances that express saudade, the Portuguese feeling of longing, while dining on classic Portuguese dishes.

Fama d’Alfama is a great choice. They’re open Tuesday to Saturday.

➳ Read more: How to Travel Portugal by Campervan

6. St. George’s Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) – Best Sunset in Lisbon

End your day with a visit to Castelo de S. Jorge, one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. Perched atop Lisbon’s highest hill, the castle offers breathtaking views of the city, the Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean.

During the summer season (March to October) Castelo de S. Jorge is open from 9 am to 9 pm, with the last entry at 8.30 pm.

➳ Plan your visit to Caselo de Sao Jorge

Things To Do in Lisbon – Day 2

Spend your second day in Lisbon exploring Baixa-Chiado, Cais do Sodre and Bairro Alto.

7. Santa Justa Lift

The Santa Justa Lift, also known as the Elevador de Santa Justa, is not only a functional piece of urban infrastructure but also a popular tourist attraction in the heart of Lisbon. It’s located in Baixa-Chiado and connects the lower part of town to Carmo Square in Bairro Alto.

The Santa Justa Lift was inaugurated in 1902, and with its 45 meter height it’s an impressive part of Lisbon’s cityscape.

Today, the Santa Justa lift is one of the top things to do in Lisbon. The lift is open between 7 am – 10.45 pm, and a ticket costs €5.30 (in 2024). This includes a trip up, access to the viewing platform at the top, and a trip back down.

➳ Fun fact! The Santa Justa Lift was designed by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard, an apprentice of the famous Gustave Eiffel.

8. Wander at Praça do Comércio

Praça do Comércio, or the Commerce Square, is Lisbon’s most grandiose and historically significant square. Situated along the banks of the Tagus River, this square formerly functioned as the primary location for unloading goods directly from the river.

➳ Interesting fact! Praça do Comércio was built on the site where the old Royal Palace used to exist before it was destroyed by the earthquake of 1755.

9. Arco da Rua Augusta

While you’re at Praça do Comércio, you should walk through the majestic Arco da Rua Augusta, the big arch that’s sometimes called the “door to Lisbon”, leading to the grand boulevard Rua Augusta.

Rua Augusta is the absolute center of Lisbon, with shops, restaurants, street artists, and lots of vendors selling souvenirs. Even though I wouldn’t recommend spending too much time in this very touristy part of Lisbon, it can be nice to pay a quick visit.

10. Pink Street

The area around Pink Street used to be Lisbon’s ‘Red Light District.’ However, in 2011, the neighborhood was given a fresh new vibe with the introduction of trendy cafes, bars, and the now-iconic pink-painted street. This transformation turned it into one of Lisbon’s liveliest nightlife spots, drawing locals and visitors alike. Today, Pink Street has become a must-see attraction, and for those who want to capture it in its quietest moments, an early morning visit is ideal.

➳ Tips! In need of a coffee? Copenhagen Coffee Lab, one of my favorite coffee shops in Lisbon, is located around the corner from Pink Street.

11. Elevador da Bica – Popular Thing To Do in Lisbon

With Lisbon’s steep hills, the city is dotted with staircases, elevators, and funiculars to help people navigate between different neighborhoods. One of the most iconic of these is the Elevador da Bica, a beloved funicular that links the bustling Chiado area to the vibrant Bairro Alto. This historic funicular climbs a narrow, picturesque street framed by colorful houses, creating a truly charming scene.

Elevador da Bica’s beauty and unique character have made it one of the most popular things to do in Lisbon. If you’d like to ride it to the top, consider going early to avoid the crowds. But whether you take the ride or simply admire it from the street, a visit to the Elevador da Bica is a must when in Lisbon.

12. Eat Pastel de Nata – Must Do in Lisbon

Get ready for your best experience in Lisbon! I know it might sound silly to put a pastry on a list of best things to do in Lisbon, but as soon as you try it you will understand why. Pastel de Nata, or Pastéis de Nata, is a Portuguese egg custard tart pastry

Opinions are divided as to who makes the best Pastel de Nata. Some say it’s the world-famous bakery in Belém, Pastéis de Belém, who have been baking original Pastéis de Belém from an ancient recipe since 1837. If you have time, you can go to Belém to try them (just be prepared for the long queue!)

I tried a lot of different Pastel de Natas during my month in Lisbon, and my favorites are the ones from Manteigaria.

13. Time Out Market

Ready for lunch? Time Out Market is a sprawling food market in Cais do Sodre, and a popular lunch and dinner spot for both locals and tourists. They have a big selection of food stalls with food from all over the world.

Time Out Market is open daily from 10 am to 10.30 pm.

14. Visit a Ceramics Shop

Ceramics have been integral to Lisbon’s culture since the Moorish period, with traditional azulejos (ceramic tiles) adorning buildings, churches, and palaces across the city. These colorful tiles and ceramics celebrate Portugal’s heritage and artistry, making Lisbon a renowned center for ceramic craftsmanship.

To experience this tradition firsthand, visit D’Olival and Luza, two shops that beautifully capture the spirit of Portuguese ceramics. Both are excellent places to find unique pieces that reflect Lisbon’s ceramic heritage and support local artisans. A visit to either shop provides an authentic connection to Portugal’s rich tradition of craftsmanship and design.

15. Visit the National Tile Museum

Are you a museum kind of person? Then I can highly recommend the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo). It’s a unique attraction that showcases the history and art of Portuguese tile-making. The museum is housed in an 18th-century palace and features an extensive collection of decorative ceramic tiles from the 15th to the 20th century.

The National Tile Museum is located in the Xabregas district, a bit outside of the city center. Bus 759 from Alfama, or 781 from Case do Sodre, will take you there.

16. Enjoy the nightlife in Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto is known for its vibrant nightlife, and it is the perfect place for visitors to experience the city’s nightlife. The neighborhood is home to many restaurants, bars, and clubs, and in the evening it transforms to one big street party. Bairro Alto is also a great place to try the city’s famous ginjinha, a sweet cherry liqueur. If you want to experience Lisbon’s nightlife, this is the place to go!

Things To Do in Lisbon – Day 3

Spend your third day in Lisbon exploring the western parts of the city.

17. Visit the Belém Tower

Belém Tower, or Torre de Belém, is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. It’s located by the Tagus River and was initially built to protect the city’s harbor. After the Lisbon invasion by the Spanish in 1580, the tower was used as a prison. Belém Tower dates back to 1519 and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

You can go inside the tower and climb to the terrace on top. However, I don’t recommend it as the queues are usually huge. If you still want to climb to the top, get your Belém Tower tickets in advance here.

18. Visit the Jeronimos Monastery

Another iconic landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site is Jeronimos Monastery, or Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. This monastery is located close to Belém Tower, and well worth a visit during your trip to Lisbon.

The Jerónimos Monastery is a Gothic and Baroque architectural masterpiece built in the 16th in honor of the explorer Vasco da Gama. This impressive building is one of the most popular things to do in Lisbon, so expect big crowds. Get your tickets in advance.

19. LX Factory

LX Factory is a trendy market located under the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, in the Alcantara area. LX Factory was an old textile factory that has been converted into a modern and creative mini-town. Today it houses a collection of independent design shops, vintage boutiques, art galleries, book shops, tattoo studios, coworking spaces, cafés and restaurants.

This is one of the coolest things to do in Lisbon, and even though the visitors are probably tourists rather than locals, it’s well worth a visit!

20. Take a boat tour of the River Tagus

The River Tagus is one of the most important waterways in Portugal, and a boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Visitors can take a tour of the river and see some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Belém Tower and the 25 de Abril Bridge. A boat tour also offers great views of the city’s coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.

We booked our boat tour via AirBnb, but there are a lot of great options! See more of your boat tour options here.

21. Explore Lisbon’s great wine bars

Lisbon is filled with fantastic wine bars that are perfect for unwinding with a glass of Portugal’s best wines. Scattered across the city, these spots give you the chance to taste a variety of local wines, from crisp whites to rich reds and even famous ports. Stopping by a wine bar (or many!) is a must for anyone looking to dive into the local flavors and soak up the relaxed Lisbon vibe.

➳ Tips! My absolute favorite wine bar in Lisbon is Holy Wine in Chiado. It’s pretty much just a hole in the wall, but it’s super cozy and offers great Portuguese wines. See all wine bar recommendations.

Where To Eat in Lisbon

Lisbon is known for its delicious cuisine, which is influenced by its location on the coast. Some of the most popular dishes include seafood, such as bacalhau (salt cod), sardines, and octopus. Other traditional dishes include cozido, a stew made with various meats and vegetables, and pastel de nata, a sweet pastry filled with custard. Be sure to also try the local wine, which is known for its unique flavor and quality.

Best Restaurants in Lisbon

• Tantura: A Middle-Eastern restaurant in Bairro Alto with incredible food!
• Mini Bar by José Avillez: A trendy restaurant in an old church building, hidden behind a secret door. Incredible food and drinks!
• Ponto Final: A famous restaurant by the sea on the other side of Ponte 25 de Abril bridge. You can go here by boat from Cais do Sodre.
• The Food Temple: An incredible vegan restaurant where you can enjoy your meal outside on their staircase.
• Senhor Uva: An incredible vegetarian restaurant near Jardim da Estrela. Best food I had in Lisbon!
• Leonetta: A great pasta restaurant in Bairro Alto.

Best Cafés in Lisbon

• Copenhagen Coffee Lab: Scattered across Lisbon and serves great coffee and Danish pastries.
• Fauna & Flora: Serves great breakfast in Chiado.
• Seagull Method: A cute café in Principe Real
• Dear Breakfast: Dear Breakfast has four establishments across Lisbon, but their best one is in Alfama.
• Neighbourhood: A café located in a colorful tiled building in Chiado.

Best Wine Bars in Lisbon

• Holy Wine: my favorite wine bar in Lisbon, located in Chiado.
• Black Sheep Lisboa: A trendy wine bar in Principe Real. Be there when they open as it gets packed quickly.
• Senhor Uva: If you don’t want to eat here you can just come here for the wines. Their wine list is incredible!
• The Old Pharmacy: A wine bar in an old pharmacy at one of the livliest streets in Bairro Alto.

Where To Stay in Lisbon

For a stay in Lisbon, some of the best neighborhoods to consider are the charming old-town areas of Bairro Alto and Alfama or the bustling central districts of Baixa and Chiado. Bairro Alto is perfect if you’re looking for lively nightlife, but keep in mind it can get quite loud, especially in the evenings. For a quieter vibe with plenty of charm, Alfama offers winding streets, local fado music, and a more laid-back atmosphere. In the city center, Baixa and Chiado are great choices for those who want to be close to major attractions, shopping, and dining.

If you’re interested in a more relaxed, trendy vibe, consider Príncipe Real. This up-and-coming neighborhood is a bit further from the main hustle but has a quieter, residential feel with beautiful gardens, boutique shops, and cafes. Each of these areas brings its own unique character to a Lisbon stay, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit!

Hotel Recommendations

• OnJ S. Lázaro near Martim Moniz
• Lisboa Carmo Hotel in Baixa-Chiado
• Casa do Jasmim by Shiadu in Principe Real

How Many Days Should I Spend in Lisbon?

For a well-rounded experience, three days in Lisbon is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore the city’s major attractions. Three days also allows for some leisurely meals, time to soak in the local atmosphere, and perhaps a sunset from one of Lisbon’s beautiful viewpoints.

However, if you’re interested in venturing beyond Lisbon for a day trip, four days would be even better. With an extra day, you can explore charming nearby towns such as Sintra.

Day Trips from Lisbon

Cascais

Cascais is a small, charming old fishing village just a short 40-minute train ride from Lisbon. Today it’s where Lisbon’s wealthier people have their holiday homes, and goes during weekends. It’s one of the nicest places to visit if you want to get out of the city on a day trip, and also the easiest-to-reach beach near Lisbon.

Sintra

Sintra is a charming town located just outside of Lisbon that is known for its beautiful palaces and gardens. The most famous palace in Sintra is the Pena Palace, which is a stunning 19th-century palace that is known for its colorful architecture and beautiful views.

➳ Read more: Sintra Travel Guide

How To Visit Lisbon

How to get to Lisbon

Getting to Lisbon is easy, with plenty of travel options to choose from. Whether you’re arriving by plane, train, or bus, planning your journey is straightforward, with resources available to help you find the best route.

By Plane: Lisbon is served by Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), located just a short drive from the city center. It’s well-connected to major European and international cities, making it convenient for travelers from around the world. Check out plane tickets here.

By Train: Portugal’s train network, managed by Comboios de Portugal (cp.pt), offers direct routes to Lisbon from cities like Porto, Coimbra, and Faro. Lisbon’s main stations, Santa Apolónia and Oriente, provide quick access to various parts of the city and beyond. I took the train from Faro to Lisbon and it was super smooth.

By Bus: Buses are a popular way to reach Lisbon and other destinations across Portugal. For planning, CheckMyBus is a helpful tool that summarizes all bus routes. For example, you can easily find routes like Évora to Faro or Porto to Lisbon. Rede Expressos is another major provider, with frequent routes to Lisbon and other parts of the country.

Getting around in Lisbon

Once you’re in Lisbon, the city’s compact layout and extensive transportation options make it easy to explore.

By Foot: Lisbon’s neighborhoods, especially areas like Baixa, Chiado, and Alfama, are ideal for exploring on foot. Walking lets you soak in the city’s charm, narrow streets, and scenic viewpoints. Just be prepared for some hilly terrain!

By Public Transportation: Lisbon’s public transport network includes trams, buses, and metro lines. The metro is efficient for reaching major areas, while the famous yellow trams are a great way to see historic neighborhoods. On bus, tram and funicular, you can either use a navegante occasional card (an electronic smart card used for public transport in Lisbon) or, if you don’t have one, buy a ticket from the driver in cash only. If you have one, you can also use your Lisbon Card to get around in Lisbon.

By Taxi: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are widely available and affordable. They’re a convenient option for late-night trips, airport transfers, or getting to destinations less accessible by public transport.

Best Time to Visit Lisbon

The best time to visit Lisbon is spring or autumn, when temperatures are cooler and the city is less crowded. I would recommend March to May, or September to November. I would avoid the summer months as the temperature can get really hot.

Summary

Lisbon is a city that offers something for everyone. From its charming neighborhoods and historical landmarks to its delicious cuisine and nightlife, there is always something to see and do in this vibrant city. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s history, enjoying its natural beauty, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local culture, Lisbon has something to offer. So book your trip to Lisbon today and start exploring this beautiful city for yourself.

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