Top Places to Visit in Lisbon: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Lisbon is the breathtakingly beautiful capital of Portugal. It is located on the northern shore of the river Tagus on the western portion of the Iberian peninsula. Enchanting Lisbon is famous for its monuments, landmarks, architecture, and museums, but it also has a lot of modern-day charm. The city offers a rich blend of history, vibrant culture, and stunning vistas.

Lisbon is a must-visit place, and it is high on many people’s travel bucket lists for a reason. However, it can be overwhelming when you don’t know where to start or what to do. Therefore, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or someone who enjoys exploring scenic neighbourhoods, here are the top things you must do to make the most of your visit to this captivating city.

Explore Lisbon Alfama Neighbourhoods

Begin your journey in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood. Its narrow, winding streets are filled with hidden gems, from quaint cafes to picturesque courtyards. Make sure to visit the São Jorge Castle for panoramic city views. Immerse yourself in the area’s historical charm, bright and beautiful colours, and wisdom.

Visit the Belém Tower

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Belém Tower is an emblem of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. The Belém Tower is located on the banks of the Tagus River. This 16th-century fortress once guarded the entrance to the city’s harbour. Explore and enjoy breathtaking views of the river (and catching it at sunset is truly a sight to see!). The tower’s intricate Manueline architecture is a testament to the country’s rich maritime heritage.

Ride Lisbon Tram 28

For a quintessential Lisbon experience, hop on Tram 28 (trust me). This historic yellow tram takes you through some of the city’s most picturesque neighbourhoods, including Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. The ride offers a unique way to see Lisbon’s top sights. You will see the Lisbon Cathedral and the Basilica da Estrela while navigating its charming and iconic hilly streets. Lisbon is known for its very hilly streets. So, whether on the tram or walking, a top tip is to be prepared. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and get ready to explore the magic that Lisbon has to offer!

Marvel at the Azulejos at the National Tile Museum

Portugal is famous for its Azulejos, or decorative ceramic tiles. The National Tile Museum, housed in the Convent of Madre de Deus, showcases the beauty and history of these tiles. The museum’s extensive collection spans several centuries and features intricate tile panels that depict scenes from Portuguese history and everyday life.

Enjoy the Views of Lisbon from Miradouros

Lisbon’s viewpoints offer some of the best panoramic views of the city (truly extraordinary). They will captivate you and create a feeling of peace and serenity. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Miradouro de Santa Catarina are two must-visit spots. These viewpoints provide stunning views, perfect for capturing memorable photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Wander through the LX Factory located under the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. The bridge is also known for its similar resemblance to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The LX Factory is a cultural and creative hub housed in a former industrial complex. This trendy area has art studios, boutiques, restaurants, and bars. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing unique shops, enjoying street art, tasting the available divine food, and experiencing Lisbon’s modern, artistic side.

Take a Trip to the Beach

Lisbon’s coastline is ideal, with fabulous beaches, tiny fishing villages, and clifftop walks. It is the perfect holiday destination to experience both city life and the more chilled-out and relaxed beach life, too! Many beaches are close to Lisbon, such as Praia da Conceição, with its calm waters and beautiful scenery. This beach can become very packed. However, it is a good one to make a stop at, as it is the starting point of a continuous promenade that goes past several beaches. 

Prada de Carcavelos is another stunning beach even closer to the centre of Lisbon, the closest beach fully on the Atlantic. I don’t know about you, but I love the sea and am drawn to it any chance I get. If you are the same, simply take a train from Lisbon to the desired beach or beaches you would love to visit and enjoy your relaxation and extraordinary views! Personally, I think if you can add a day to your trip to have time for the beach, or even a morning or afternoon, it’s definitely worth it!

Explore Bairro Alto

By day, Bairro Alto is a charming neighbourhood with cobblestone streets and boutique shops. By night, it transforms into the heart of Lisbon’s nightlife, with a plethora of clubs, bars, and traditional Fado houses. Bairro Alto offers a vibrant and eclectic mix of entertainment options for a memorable evening out. It also offers charming Bohemian streets, filled with bright colours, history, and attractions to see, such as the lavish São Roque Church during the day.

The Enabling Capital City of Portugal

Lisbon is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern vibrancy. It offers a diverse range of attractions for every traveller, with so much to see, endless things to do, and beautiful culture and history to uncover.

Another example is Pastéis de Belém, a sweet treat that is iconic in Lisbon. Indulging in these famous fresh pastries, which have been baked at the Antiga Confeitaria de Belém since 1837, is a must! Their secret recipe and unique flavour make them a must-try delicacy to enjoy while soaking in the historical ambience of the bakery.

Of course, the Jerónimos Monastery, which is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another breathtaking place to discover, as it is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture with so much history to delve into! From exploring ancient neighbourhoods and historical landmarks to enjoying modern cultural hubs, stunning viewpoints, and idyllic beaches, these places in Lisbon will ensure you have an unforgettable experience in this magical city! Whether it’s your first visit or your 10th, you will always be captivated by Lisbon and never be bored.