Nestled between 7 hills, Lisbon is known for its sweeping views, cobbled streets, and an energetic nightlife scene! At the city’s miradouros, or viewpoints, you’ll get a spectacular view of the city and its surroundings, as well as the opportunity to enjoy snacks and light refreshments like espresso and sangria. If you’re keen to check out other things to do in Lisbon, try the local cuisine, where fresh seafood is abundant due to the city’s seaside location, or stop by Lisbon’s clubs and bars, known for their good prices!
Originally built in the 16th century to defend the city from its strategic position at the mouth of the Tagus River, the Belém Tower is one of the most famous tourist spots in Lisbon. You’ll climb up the narrow staircase, which uses a traffic light system to direct the crowds, until you reach the viewing deck at the top, where you’ll see the city in all its glory. To avoid queuing, purchase your ticket in advance or try to go earlier during the day.
The Jerónimos Monastery is one of the most significant buildings in the history of Portugal, as it houses the tomb of Vasco de Gama, the first European to reach India by sea. Designed by architect Diogo de Boitaca, the building exemplifies the Manueline architecture style, also known as Portuguese late Gothic. Inside the monastery, you’ll get to visit the church and the gorgeous two-story cloister inside. Much like the Belém Tower tower, you can avoid the long queues by purchasing your ticket before your visit.
Discover Lisbon’s heritage at Castelo de S. Jorge, a castle erected in the 11th century to house the military. Learn about the history of Portugal at the castle and the permanent exhibition, see traces of the Moorish neighborhood at the archaeological site, or just chill out as you take in the views and the greenery, where you can spot peacocks and other animals in the wild. The way up can be a bit steep, so take a tuk-tuk or tram if you want to skip the walk.
The history of Lisbon comes alive at Praça do Comércio, a grandiose square with arcades from the 18th century, bright pastel-colored buildings, and a magnificent triumphal arch on the north side. Initially constructed in the year 1580, the historical square was rebuilt by Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, 1st Marquis of Pombal, after the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake. A myriad of activities await you at the square: go up the Arco da Rua Augusta or try some wine at Vinhos de Portugal.
The quickest way to travel between upper and lower sections of the city, specifically between Baixa and Bairro Alto, the Santa Justa Lift is one of the most popular Lisbon tourist spots! Designed in 1902 by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard, who admired the work of Gustave Eiffel, the Santa Justa Lift bears strong similarities to the Eiffel Tower. Once you reach the viewing platform at the top, you’ll be treated to the sweet sight of the cityscape and its surroundings.
Located in the heart of the city, Rossio Square is where many tourists and locals stop by in the middle of the day to simply sit and relax. The square has two fountains on each side and a statue of Dom Pedro IV, where many visitors can be found taking photos of the monument. One can find a variety of places to visit around the square, such as cafes with outdoor seating, the Dona Maria II National Theater on the north end, and several shops.
Made in 1998 for the World Fair, Oceanário de Lisboa is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe. Inside, you’ll witness the beauty and diversity of Lisbon’s sea creatures, as you marvel at the various sea animals like cute sea otters & penguins, sharks, manta rays, and more. It even houses massive sunfish, one of the few aquariums in the world to do so, as they have demanding care requirements. Outside, you can hop on the Telecabine Lisboa cable car after your visit for panoramic views of the water and nearby landmarks.
The Padrão dos Descobrimentos is a 52-meter tall monument on the northern bank of the Tagus River, near the Jerónimos Monastery. The monument celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery and its navigators in the 15th-16th century, when they were the most powerful seafaring nation at the time. The monument features a caravel facing the sea, a world map bearing navigations from prior travels, and an elevator that you can take to get to the top for some sightseeing.
Known for its panoramic view of Lisbon, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and beyond, the Sanctuary of Christ the King is one of the city’s key attractions. Easily accessible via the ferry or the metro, it’s one of the best places in Lisbon to catch the sunset! This Catholic monument, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, features a beautiful chapel at the bottom filled with stunning paintings. Should you wish to check out the viewing platform, you can take the elevator to the top after paying the cover charge.
The Lisbon Cathedral is a relic of the history of Portugal, having been rebuilt multiple times after its initial construction finished in 1147. The cathedral’s features are built in an eclectic mix of Roman and Gothic architecture, particularly the arches, as some of them were built in the latter style after the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake that affected most of the city. The most popular attractions in the cathedral are the treasury and the cloister, where recent excavations have unearthed traces of human presence from the medieval period.
Lisbon is known for its rich cultural heritage and history, with its signature Portuguese pavement design, religious sites, and maritime history. As you explore its seven hills and check out the signature views, feel free to try out the local cuisine - with dishes like fresh seafood and custard tarts, Lisbon’s cuisine is sure to deliver!
Lisbon is busiest during the warmer months of April to September, where some of the city’s biggest festivals like the Indie Lisboa in April and the Festas in June. For those who wish to visit during the cooler months, December to February is the ideal period.
To enjoy seafood restaurants and maritime landmarks, stay at waterfront areas such as Belém, Parque das Nações, and Restelo. For shopping and nightlife, try staying at Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real, or Alcântara.