In Lisbon and wondering what’s worth your time? Here’s my list of the best things to see, do, and experience in Portugal’s charming capital, Lisbon.
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Table of Contents
- Intro
- Lisbon Map
- 16 Things to Do in Lisbon
- Getting Around Lisbon
- Where to Stay in Lisbon
- Final Words
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Intro
Lisbon, Portugal will certainly captivate you, with its pastel-colored buildings, hills lined with old-world charm, and a coastal location with fun water activities. If you’re here for the history, the nightlife, or the views, the city of Lisbon will undoubtedly have something for you. I’ve gathered the best 16 things to do in Lisbon, with must-see landmarks, hidden gems, and local experiences you won’t want to miss.
Lisbon Map
The above map shows all the Lisbon attractions mentioned in this post.
HOW TO USE THE ABOVE LISBON MAP:
| Action | Description / Step-by-Step Instructions |
|---|---|
| Click a Colored Star Point of Interest | Shows additional information and details of the selected Point of Interest |
| Click the STAR ☆ right of the “Lisbon Attractions“ | Adds the Map to your personal Google Maps account for viewing* |
| Click the Four-cornered Square at the Top Right | Opens the map in a Larger Map view in your personal Google Maps account |
| *To view the Map in your Google Maps Account (computer) | In your Google Maps, Click the “hamburger” Menu at top left → Click “Saved” → Click “Maps” → Locate “Lisbon Attractions” → Click it to open the Map |
| *To view the Map in your Google Maps Account (phone) | In your Google Maps app, Click “Saved” on the bottom bar → Scroll to the bottom → Click “Maps” → Locate “Lisbon Attractions” → Click it to open the Map |
16 Things to Do in Lisbon
There’s plenty to see and do in and around Lisbon, so it can be hard to determine what you should fit into your itinerary. Below are the best things to do in Lisbon that I found to be interesting, fun, or worthwhile.
Explore the City
1. Ride the Historic No. 28 Tram
When you’re exploring Lisbon’s street, you’re sure to spot the charming and iconic trolleys driving around the city. If you’re interesting in riding the tram, hop onto the No. 28 tram known for its vintage yellow color, and it goes through some of the city’s most charming neighborhood.
These trolleys are packed with people though, so to get a good spot, head to a trolley stop early in the morning and try to snag a window seat. First trolley leaves from the first stop at Martim Moniz around 6 AM.
The trolley does go around in a loop which takes about 50 minutes to an hour depending on traffic, but you can also choose to get off at any of the stops. Although, it might be hard to get back on to a trolley once you leave.
Check out the No.28 trolley map here.
No. 28 Tram • photos by Jeanie A
2. Explore Lisbon on a Tuk Tuk Tour
If you prefer to see Lisbon not packed like a sardine on a trolley, then go on a Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour! You’ll see these cute tuk tuks throughout Lisbon, and they will take you on a breezy adventure through the city’s steep streets and bring you to famous sights. It’s part history, part joyride, and all fun.
Book a Tuk Tuk Sightseeing tour in one of the widgets below:
3. Hunt for Treasures at the Feira da Ladra Flea Market
In the Alfama district lies Lisbon’s famous flea market, Feira da Ladra. It is only held on Tuesdays and Saturdays, so if you’re interested in hunting for some treasures, then plan it in your itinerary accordingly. Here you’ll find all sorts of goodies like vintage tiles, quirky antiques, and the perfect souvenir.
Feira da Ladra • photos by Jeanie A
4. Stroll from Praça Marques de Pombal to Rua Augusta
For a perfect city walk, start at the Praça Marques de Pombal where you can see a large statue of Marques de Pombal, the former ruler who reformed and rebuilt Lisbon after the 1755 earthquake. Then head down to the grand Avenida da Liberdade which then leads to Rua Augusta, a lively pedestrian street lined with shops and cafes. At the end of the street, gawk at the majestic Arco da Rua Augusta, a large stunning archway, then end at the Praca do Comercio by the water to enjoy some views of the Tagus River.
Stroll along Rua Augusta • photos by Jeanie A
5. Visit Pink Street
Pink Street used to be Lisbon’s red light district, but today it’s a picture perfect spot with its pink-colored street covered with colorful hanging umbrellas. For the perfect instagram shot, visit in the morning where the street is more empty. Otherwise you can still go to visit cafes, restaurants, and the nearby Timeout Market for some food. Or even checkout the rooftop bar at Java. Pink Street does come alive at night too, where people will flock to the street and enjoy drinks with a unique ambiance.
Looking for Views
6. Ride (or Climb) the Elevador de Santa Justa
Located along the Rua Augusta is a uniquely-designed lift, the Elevador de Santa Justa. You can ride the lift or walk up the steps to a viewing platform for a bird’s eye view of the surrounding city.
7. Spend a Sunny Afternoon at a Beach Club
Head to a chic beach club when the sun is shining! Check out beach clubs like Irmão, Princesa, or Kailua Fonte da Telha, all located along the coastline. You can eat at the cute restaurant with ocean views, or opt for a cabana and enjoy the beach in ultimate comfort. Make reservations ahead of time for your preferred cabana style, or simply to eat at your preferred time.
Irmão Beach Club • photos by Jeanie A
8. Catch a Sunset by the Tagus River
After a day of sightseeing, there really is nothing better than finding a spot along the Tagus River to watch the sunset.
Some location options to catch the sunset:
Head across the river via the “Cacilhas – Cais do Sodre” ferry to the Ginjal area. This waterside area offers amazing views of central Lisbon and the 25 de Abril Bridge, making it a great place to watch the sunset. While in the area, why not eat at one of the many seafood restaurants
Or if you prefer to stay on the central Lisbon side, check out the area by Jardim Docas da Ponte, located right next to the bridge and along the river. For a modern ambiance, head to the ICON Bar & Rooftop at Hyatt Regency.
This next location isn’t necessary by the Tagus River, but if you’re looking for amazing views of Lisbon, the river, and the sunset, stay at the LovelyStay – Full Sky in Chiado vacation rental. We stayed here during our Lisbon visit, and it offered amazing views of the city that I had to add it as a thing to do. It’s also near 2 cafes, one across the street called Fauna & Flora, and another down the street called A Brasileira.
Tagus River views • photos by Jeanie A
Historic Landmarks
9. Step Inside the National Pantheon
Not far from the Feira da Ladra is the National Pantheon. The national Pantheon is a stunning piece of architecture, but what makes it most interesting is that it is a resting place for some important Portuguese figures. Here, you are able to take a series of steps up to the top floor where, you can go out onto the roof balcony to get panoramic views of Lisbon, but also see the interior of the dome and the whole of the cathedral from inside.
National Pantheon • photos by Jeanie A
10. Marvel at the Belém Tower
Unfortunately, during my Lisbon visit in July 2025, Belem Tower was still closed for renovation work, with the exterior covered with scaffolding. Regardless, I did still put Belém Tower as a thing to do in Lisbon because it still deserves a spot being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But if you’re planning to go visit, just be aware that it might be closed and that you won’t even get to see its exterior. The renovation work is expected to be ongoing until early 2026.
11. Visit the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery)
Not far from Belem Tower is the Jerónimos Monastery. The Jerónimos Monastery is a beautiful monastery of Manueline architecture, a Portuguese-specific architecture style. You can explore the grounds and admire the beautiful stonework details.
Get entry tickets to the monastery, or book a tour to multiple spots in one of the widgets below:
Nightlife
12. Experience Local Nightlife in Bairro Alto
If you’re looking for a local nightlife experience, then head to Bairro Alto! You can walk through the maze of narrow streets packed with small bars you can hop easily between. You can start at the Praça Luís de Camões and head north down Rua do Norte and hop around!
Bar Hopping in Bairro Alto • photos by Jeanie A
13. Dance the Night Away on a Lisbon Boat Party
If you’re looking for a unique type of party, then go on a Lisbon Boat Party! The Lisbon Boat Party is legendary with live DJs, sunset views, and drinks while cruising along the Tagus River. Not only do you get to party, but you’ll get to see Lisbon from a different angle.
Lisbon Boat Party • photos by Jeanie A
Day Trips from Lisbon
14. Take a Day Trip to Sintra
For an easy and unforgettable day trip, head to the nearby city of Sintra. Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage town where you’ll find a colorful palace, a Manueline castle, and moorish architecture. Visit Pena Palace for its colorful buildings, Quinta da Regaleira with its iconic initiation well, and try their local pastry, trevasseiro da casa piriquita at Casa Piriquita, my favorite pastry I had in Portugal! You can spend the day exploring this charming city and head back to Lisbon in the evening.
Check out one of the below Sintra tours that include multiple palaces, and may also provide transportation from Lisbon:
Sintra • photos by Jeanie A
15. Take a Day Trip to Nazaré
Nazaré is famously known for its record-breaking big-wave surfing events. Nazaré is a coastal city known for their “big waves” and can be observed in October to March. If you’re visiting in off-big-wave season, the Atlantic Ocean views, the shops, and surf culture makes this a stop worth making.
Nazaré • photos by Jeanie A
16. Take a Day Trip to Óbidos
Another fascinating city that you can visit from Lisbon is the medieval city of Óbidos. This storybook town is surrounded by high stone walls (you can walk on!) protecting the whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and many shops. While here, you got to try the city’s famous cherry liquor, ginjinha, that’s usually served in a tiny chocolate cup. There’s also an amazing jewelry store here called Joalharia do Carmo which sells unique medieval style jewelry.
Check out one of the below Óbidos tours (that also includes visiting Nazaré) from Lisbon:
Óbidos • photos by Jeanie A
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Getting Around Lisbon
Walk
The main central Lisbon area is walkable, especially the flat area by Rua Augusta. The entire city is cobblestoned too (which can also be super slippery) so avoid wearing heels and wear comfortable walking shoes with a decent grip. BUT be forewarned that there are hills here! So if you get tired from walking up hills easily, maybe the best way is to call a rideshare car to get between destinations.
Rideshare
The most convenient way to get around is by using one of the ride share apps, either Uber or Bolt. Bolt seemed to be a bit more inexpensive but when one app showed minimal rides nearby, the other app usually showed more. So, it’s best to just download and set up both rideshare apps before you arrive in Portugal.
Train
Lisbon has a metro system and is an inexpensive option to travel like a local. Check out the Lisbon metro map here.
Where to Stay in Lisbon
Lisbon is a pretty big city with several areas you can stay in. For me and this itinerary, I prioritized a convenient location to all the main sights we planned to see. So we opted to stay at the LovelyStay – Full Sky in Chiado located in the Chiado area of central Lisbon. We found this hotel’s location worth it since it was near cafes and bars nearby.
Book the same stay by clicking here or add your dates and click “Search” for availability in the widget below:
Views from LovelyStay – Full Sky in Chiado • photos by Jeanie A
Final Words
Lisbon is a captivating city full with history, charm, and amazing views. Be sure to fill your Lisbon itinerary with the best things to do and add one or more of these things to elevate your Portuguese experience. Bon Voyage!
What was the highlight of your visit to Lisbon?
Let me know in the comments below!
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