22 Must-Do Things in Lisbon for First Timers

If you’re looking to visit Lisbon, the second-oldest European capital (after Athens and before Rome), this guide to the best things to do on a visit will hopefully help you plan your stay. It’s a city I’ve visited four times now, and I always discover something new to do.

In Portugal, there is an expression that says: “Braga prays, Porto works, Coimbra studies, and Lisbon has fun.” And it is true. “The City of Light” is set between seven tree-lined hills. A unique coastal city, its salty sea air and proximity to the ocean make it the perfect European weekend getaway.

Lisbon is one of the most popular places to visit in Europe, and with good reason. With a growing, spectacular food scene, charming neighborhoods, and incredible art, each time I return, I fall in love more. How can you not love the cobblestone sidewalks, the thousands of azulejos that make up the walls, and the pastel-colored buildings?

Even though I have been there many times, I always leave with the feeling that there are still things to discover. So if you’re planning your time in Lisbon, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite things to do in the city. From discovering historic book stores to iconic sights to art museums, this is your guide to Lisbon.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Lisbon:

Hotels

The best-located neighborhoods are Chiado, Baixa, Bairro Alto, and Alfama (Chiado or Bairro Alto are my favorites).

1. Memmo Alfama, for the best Alfama hotel
2. Baixa House, for the best Baixa hotel
3. The Lumiares Hotel & Spa, for the best Bairro Alto hotel

Things to Do

1. “Best-of” Lisbon Walking Tour Walking Tour
2. Undiscovered Lisbon Food and Wine Tour
3. Take a Day Trip to Sinta

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

Visiting Lisbon for the first time? Don’t miss my first-timer’s guide to Lisbon, ultimate 3-day Lisbon itinerary, and recommendations for where to stay, the best boutique hotels and best restaurants in Lisbon! If you’re looking to venture beyond the city, check out my 10-day Portugal itinerary, guide to the best places to visit in Portugal, and travel guides to Alentejo, Comporta, Évora, and Monsaraz!

22 Must-Do Things in Lisbon, Portugal

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What to Know About Visiting Lisbon, Portugal

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Lisbon?

The best time of year to visit Lisbon is during the spring (March to May) or early fall (September to October), when the weather is comfortably warm and the crowds are thinner than in peak summer months. I’ve spent the majority of my trips in the earlier spring months and loved that the weather was mild and not as many people.

Is 3 Days Too Long in Lisbon?

Not at all! I think 3 days is the perfect amount of time for a Lisbon itinerary. It will give you the right amount of time to do several main attractions and even take a day trip.

Where To Fly Into to Visit Lisbon?

Lisbon Airport, also known as Humberto Delgado Airport, is the main international airport for Portugal. Several direct flights land here from neighboring European countries, and even direct flights from Newark with Tap Air and United.

Where Should I Go After Lisbon?

My suggestion is to rent a car from Lisbon and go for a road trip through Alentejo. As part of a larger 10-day itinerary through Portugal, you can start in Lisbon and then make your way to the countryside and the coast. You can see historic villages like Monsaraz and Évora, and then spend time at the beaches in Comporta.

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Wondering Where to Stay in Lisbon?

There are several areas to consider when staying in Lisbon. My full guide on where to stay in Lisbon breaks out the best neighborhoods and hotels in each. Don’t have time to read? Here’s the scoop: The central Lisbon neighborhoods of Chiado, Baixa, Bairro Alto, and Alfama are the best-located neighborhoods. If I had to choose, my favorite would be Chiado or Bairro Alto. My favorite hotels in each:

1. Memmo Alfama, for the best Alfama hotel
2. Baixa House, for the best Baixa hotel
3. The Lumiares Hotel & Spa, for the best Bairro Alto hotel

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What to Do in Lisbon

1. Take an Early Morning Stroll in the Alfama District

Lisbon’s most traditional neighbourhood is home to many historic streets that truly transport you back in time. Alfama is my favorite area in Lisbon to get lost and soak up the local scene. It’s the perfect place to explore with a camera in hand, wander through hidden courtyards, and charming alleys.

If you’re feeling hungry, drop in at Casa São Miguel, a pastry shop. The pastéis de nata are fantastic. And for coffee, my personal go-to is Copenhagen Coffee Lab.

2. Grab breakfast at Patriarcal-Panificação Reunida de São Roque

Little further off the tourist trail, this Art Nouveau-inspired bakery, the oldest one in the city, offers delicious “bolo de Arroz” (rice muffin), freshly squeezed orange juices, and black coffee. Little extras: The imposing columns and decorated tiles alone are worth the visit.

3. Sip a Cherry Liqueur at A Ginjinha

Since 1840, this bar has been run by the same family. They serve this unique cherry liqueur drink with or without candied cherries. The locals come here to enjoy it, standing in the street. A great way to start the evening in Lisbon! 

4. Soak in the Views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Largo Portas do Sol in the Alfama

There is no shortage of viewpoints from “miradouros” (belvederes) in Lisbon. These two lookouts overlook the Alfama, offering the wonderful perspective of the Tagus estuary, the Graça district, the São Vicente de Fora church, and the dome of the National Pantheon at any time of the day. Unwind around the São Vicente de Fora’s statue, the city’s patron saint.

It’s a very popular place to see the sunset, especially at Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Right there, at Bar Terraço de Santa Luzia, is a good spot to enjoy cocktails while watching the sun go down.

5. Experience the Fado Singers at Mesa de Frades

When it comes to traditional experiences in Lisbon, one thing you have to do is hear a traditional fado concert. At Mesa de Frades, concerts are offered from Monday to Saturday with a meal, but you can also go later (from 11:45 p.m.) to have a drink. You’ll have to press the vintage doorbell to announce yourself before entering the darkness of an 18th-century palace. *I would recommend booking a table for dinner.

In the Graça neighborhood, Tasca do Jaime d’Alfama is a friendly spot far from the tourist trail. On Saturday and Sunday afternoons, the place is a good spot to hear amateur singers who are getting established.

6. Try the Best Sandwich at The Bifanas of Afonso

Any occasion is a good one to enjoy a bifana, a grilled thinly sliced pork that is unique to Lisbon’s food culture. Just a stone’s throw away from the Elevador de Santa Justa, enjoy one of the most requested and unpretentious dishes in the country. It’s hard to eat just one, and it pairs perfectly with a cold beer.

7. Experience Fine Art at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum (Reopening in August 2026)

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum was such a highlight of my time exploring Lisbon. This is one of the largest museums in Europe, boasting an impressive collection of antiques and Art Nouveau pieces. It’s a must-see if you can only pick one museum visit. Built in 1969, it houses six thousand pieces collected by its founder, Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian.

Its gardens, a refreshing little oasis during the summer heat, are some of the most beautiful in the city for a stroll. If you have extra time, don’t miss the Modern Art Center (CAM), housed in a building designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma.

8. Shop the Feira da Ladra Flea Market

A stone’s throw from the National Pantheon, the Feira da Ladra flea market (“Thief’s Market”) originated in the Middle Ages, where traders also sold stolen objects, which is how it got its name. Today, it’s an iconic flea market open every Tuesday and Saturday, drawing in thousands of visitors. My advice is to go early to find some antiques and second-hand items.

While there, take advantage of your visit to the Santa Clara district to discover the National Pantheon, the burial place of the country’s most important figures. What also makes this baroque monument so special is the panoramic view over the Tagus and the Alfama district from its dome.

9. Have Lunch at a Tasca (a Portuguese Bistro)

Lisbon’s bistros are known as a “tascas” and sadly, the authentic tascas are becoming more rare. It’s something still worth experiencing while in Lisbon, so I have a few suggestions of local ones to seek out.

A little way from the touristy areas, you will find Tasca Estrela d’Ouro. This Portuguese diner is my kind of bistro for tasting home-style cooking. Get some delicious pastéis de bacalhau, or grilled meat, and look (discreetly) at your neighbors’ plates to get inspired.

If you prefer to try local grilled fish, don’t miss O Cartaxeiro. It’s known for its sardines grilled simply over a wood fire, seasoned with salt on a charming terrace. I recommend arriving a few minutes before opening, as the restaurant is compact and doesn’t take reservations.

If the two previous spots are fully booked, don’t miss Zé da Mouraria in the Santa Maria Maior district. Everything about it is charming: its 1950s interior and dishes based on local family recipes such as the “bacalhau a minhota”, a piece of cod served with fried potatoes and topped with olives. Over 200 kg are served here every week! I would recommend arriving early.

10. Take a Day Trip to the Closest Seaside Resort of Cascais

Just a short train ride from Lisbon, a day trip to Cascais offers a change of pace and scenery. The town’s streets are lined with small shops and cafés, and its harbor provides a clear view of the Atlantic. You can visit the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães in the morning, then walk along the coast to Boca do Inferno (Devil’s Mouth), where waves crash against the cliffs. In the afternoon, spend time on Praia da Rainha or cycle along the coastal path toward Guincho Beach.

11. Try Pastéis de Nata at Pastéis de Belém

The cinnamon-dusted pastries fresh from the oven are a must-try and are still a top-secret recipe. Born in 19th-century convents, they were sold to subsidize the monastery’s activities. Originally, the nuns made these egg yolk-based flans because they used the whites to starch the collars of clerical cloths.

Today, the iconic Pastéis de Belém is one of the most popular places to try them. The lines for takeaway can be long, but if you pass to the left, you can usually get a table in the cafe quite quickly.

12. Cross the Tagus in a Cacilheiro for Dinner at Restaurante Farol de Cacilhas

Just as Venice has its vaporetto water buses, Lisbon has its cacilheiro. Starting at Cais do Sodré ferry terminal, his little orange ferry links the two banks of the Tagus (every 5 to 30 minutes). The crossing offers incomparable views of the city while avoiding the traffic on the roads, and takes you directly to this century-old brasserie.

Restaurante Farol de Cacilhas is one of the oldest brasseries in the Lisbon area. It’s mostly known for its seafood, like grilled sardines, seafood rice, and shrimp.

13. Get an Aperó at a “Quiosque”

The quiosque is the perfect place to watch the city slow down while sipping on a chilled glass of vinho verde. What’s a “quiosque,” you ask? A small, round building that serves a handful of drinks and small bites. Typically, in a square, dating back to 1869, these are the spots locals go to meet up.

I like to go to the Quiosque São Paulo to get some petiscos (little Portuguese tapas), as a perfectly lemony octopus salad or a well-known fried squid sandwich. In a different kind of atmosphere, you are sure to appreciate the vibe in the Príncipe Real district.

14. Ride the Iconic Tram 28

Not only practical, but also a delightful experience that adds a touch of charm to your visit, Tram 28 makes around thirty stops and will take you through the Alfama and Chiado districts, Saint George’s Castle, and the National Assembly. The best place to board is at either end, either Martim Moniz Square or Campo de Ourique. You can buy a ticket directly on board. I’d suggest taking a ride earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.

15. Stay at Memmo Alfama

Situated in Lisbon’s historic Alfama district, Memmo Alfama is a stylish boutique hotel housed in a refurbished 19th-century building. Its 42 rooms feature modern, eco-chic designs with local touches, offering a comfortable base steps from the Lisbon Cathedral and São Jorge Castle. Guests enjoy a small outdoor pool, a cozy wine bar, and scenic views of the Tagus River, making it an ideal spot for exploring the neighborhood’s narrow streets and vibrant Fado culture

16. Stop by the Jerónimos Monastery and See the Sunset from Belem Tower

Both monuments (UNESCO World Heritage Sites) are remarkable examples and symbols of the architectural style from the reign of King Manuel I. Both are ones I try to get to each trip in Lisbon because they are that good!

The colossal Jerónimos Monastery was constructed to reflect Portugal’s dominance over the world’s seas. This architectural masterpiece is well worth a visit. Be sure to see the cloisters, featuring two levels of stunning arches filled with intricate carvings and peaceful gardens at their center. You’ll want to pre-book a ticket as the monastery gets a lot of visitors.

A few steps away, don’t miss the Torre de Belém, a 16th-century fortress that once guarded the entrance to the city’s harbor. It’s about a 10-minute walk, so it’s easy to combine with a visit to the monastery.

Another recommendation for this area, if you are looking for a bite to eat, is O Frade restaurant. You can witness Chef Carlos Alfonso’s modern take on the Alentejo lifestyle, the rural heart of Portugal. The arroz de pato (duck rice) paired with a natural wine is wonderful. 

17. Take a Day Trip to Sintra to See Its Historic Palaces

Sintra is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon. Visiting Sintra via a tour is a great way to simplify the experience, as Sintra can be overwhelming due to how much there is to see. Here are a few highly-rated tours to consider:

• Private Half-Day Tour to Sintra, for the best tour for seeing the highlights
• Small Group Tour to Sintra, for the best tour for the least amount of time
• Custom Private Half-Day Tour, for the best tour for customizing where you go in Sintra with a guide

If you’d like to go by train, you can catch a direct train to Sintra from Rossio Train Station in central Lisbon. The journey takes about 40 minutes, with trains running every 20–30 minutes.

If you’re exploring on your own, arrive in Sintra and taxi directly up to the National Palace of Pena, which is at the top of the hill, and then work back down from there. From there, make your way down into Sintra and visit the Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros). This medieval fortress, perched on a rugged hilltop, was built by the Moors in the 8th or 9th century. Its strategic position allowed for sweeping views over the region, serving both as a defensive stronghold and a lookout to guard against potential invaders.

18. Sip a “Bica” (Strong Espresso) at A Brasileira

In the center of Chiado, A Brasileira offers more than just a cup of coffee—it offers a glimpse into Lisbon’s cultural past. The café, renowned for its rich history and connection to the Portuguese writer Fernando Pessoa, continues to draw a mix of locals and visitors. Inside, the polished wood interiors and mirrored walls reflect a space that has remained largely untouched by time.

19. Visit the Igreja de São Domingos

Tucked just behind Lisbon’s bustling Rossio Square, the Igreja de São Domingos stands as one of the city’s most quietly powerful landmarks. Once the site of royal weddings and national ceremonies, this 13th-century church has weathered earthquakes, fires, and centuries of history. Inside, the walls are scorched and cracked—a deliberate choice after a devastating fire in 1959 left the interior in ruins. Rather than restore it fully, the damage was left visible, turning the space into a raw, almost haunting monument to endurance.

20. Discover the National Tile Museum

The National Tile Museum is dedicated to azulejo: the traditional Portuguese art of painted ceramics. Located in a former convent, it offers a historical tour tracing the evolution of this art. The museum’s peaceful setting, with its cloisters and interior gardens, provides a quiet and rewarding escape from the crowds.

21. Go Shopping in the Chiado District

The shopping feels endless in Lisbon. A few shops in Lisbon that I love:

• Casa Pereira, for coffee
• Companhia Portugueza do Chá, for Portuguese bergamot Earl Grey tea
• Casa das Vellas Loreto, for candles
• Casa de Café A Mariazinha, for coffee and cookies
• Luvaria Ulisses, for handmade gloves
• Príncipe Real Enxovais, for fine linens (it once catered to the Kennedys and royal households across Europe. You will find some beautiful embroidered towels or nightgowns.)
• A Vida Portuguesa, for soaps with vintage packaging
• EmbaiXada, for home and fashion

22. Find a Book in the Oldest Bookstore in the World

In the heart of Chiado, Bertrand Bookstore holds a quiet kind of prestige: it’s the oldest operating bookstore in the world, open since 1732. From the outside, it’s modest—a small sign and a classic Lisbon façade—but step inside and you enter a space where centuries of literary history live on. The narrow rooms stretch deep into the building, lined with shelves that blend the old and the new: first editions, contemporary novels, and Portuguese classics all share space.

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