Twelve best things to do in Lisbon

If last time I told you about my holiday in the Azores, today we’re staying on Portuguese soil more specifically, in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal.

Although it’s an absolutely charming European capital, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that it’s not nearly as crowded or as expensive as other cities of the same caliber, which was obviously a huge plus.

We visited the city in mid-February and were lucky enough to enjoy absolutely gorgeous weather — neither too hot nor too cold, just perfect for exploring and discovering new places. However, since Lisbon is built on seven hills, make sure you bring very comfortable shoes, because you’ll be climbing plenty of stairs and steep streets.

Alternatively, you can book a tour in the famous three-wheeled tuk-tuk, a very popular option for tourists looking for a more relaxed experience.

But here is a list of 12 things to see or experience in the Portuguese capital and that you can easily include in your itinerary:

1. Visit São Jorge Castle

This medieval fortress, with Moorish and Roman influences, is by far the most panoramic attraction in Lisbon, offering breathtaking views over the city and the Tagus River. The castle is located on the city’s highest hill, in the Alfama district.

Here, you can freely wander along the defensive walls and explore its 18 towers, or simply relax in the castle gardens, where the resident peacocks are the main attraction.

The entrance fee is €17, and tickets can also be purchased online.

2. Explore the Jerónimos Monastery

One of the Seven Wonders of Portugal, this rare architectural gem built in the Manueline style, characterized by intricate stone carvings and elaborate decorative details, is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site list and one of the most visited landmarks in Portugal.

It was built at the beginning of the 16th century in honor of the Virgin Mary and was used by the Order of Saint Jerome monks.

The monastery is located in the Belém district, very close to the famous Belém Tower, and the ticket price is €19.

3. Take a walk along Cais das Colunas

After a long day of wandering and sightseeing, you can end your evening with a relaxing walk along the Tagus riverside at this picturesque spot, which once served as a docking area for the Portuguese royal family. Located right in front of Praça do Comércio, very close to Lisbon’s city center, Cais das Colunas is the perfect place to watch an unforgettable sunset.

4. Discover Bertrand Bookstore

Built in 1732, Bertrand Bookstore is the oldest bookstore in the world, earning its place in the Guinness World Records.

You can visit it in the Chiado district, an area filled with shops and perfect for a shopping session.

5. Get lost in the music on a Fado Night

I think we’ve all heard of saudade, a word deeply rooted in Portuguese culture that expresses a feeling somewhere between longing, nostalgia, and love. This emotional state is best expressed by the Portuguese through a traditional music genre known as fado.

In Lisbon, fado events are organized very frequently, so I truly encourage you to experience this unique tradition. We booked a spot at a wonderful fado house that offered a set menu accompanied by a live fado performance, which made our final evening in Portugal absolutely unforgettable.

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6. Go on a vintage hunt at Feira da Ladra

If time allows and you happen to be in Lisbon on a Tuesday or Saturday, you can stop by the Feira da Ladra flea market, located in Campo de Santa Clara. Here, you’ll find everything from books and CDs to clothing, furniture, decorations, tableware, and vintage objects.

7. Treat yourself to Pastéis de Nata

You absolutely have to try this dessert so beloved by the Portuguese. Pastéis de nata were originally created by the monks of Jerónimos Monastery, and the recipe was later sold to a bakery.

Today, that bakery is known as Pastéis de Belém, the most famous place to try these iconic Portuguese custard tarts.

8. Stroll around Rua Augusta

I don’t think you can miss this street, as it’s Lisbon’s most famous pedestrian avenue, paved with calçada portuguesa, the traditional black-and-white Portuguese mosaic pavement. Here, you’ll find some of the city’s most beautiful buildings, countless restaurants, street performers, and plenty of atmosphere.

9. Take a special elevator ride in the Santa Justa Lift

Probably the most impressive elevator you’ll ever see. Built at the beginning of the 20th century to connect the lower parts of the city with the upper neighborhoods, it stands 45 meters tall and is remarkable for its industrial neo-Gothic architecture.

10. Don’t miss the most famous tram

This iconic yellow tram is not just a means of transportation, but a true symbol of the city. That’s why most tourists rush to catch a ride through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods aboard Tram 28.

11. Try the best sardines in the world

Make room in your luggage for a few cans of sardines because going back home without these is unacceptable!

Portugal has some of the best sardines in the world, being praised worldwide for their quality and taste. An absolute must-try delicacy!

At the Fantastic World Of Portuguese Sardines shop you will find personalized cans with any birth year, which makes them a great and tasty souvenir to bring home.

12. Stop by Oceanário de Lisboa

This is one of the biggest indoor aquariums in Europe and it is a great way to hide from the middle of the day heat, watching the fish, the penguins and otters.

Accommodation

I was pleasantly surprised to discover that you can find affordable accommodation right in Lisbon’s city center.

We stayed at the Art Stay Hotel, a very chic place right on Rua Augusta, which hosts live music events almost every evening. Through them, we also booked our airport transfers, which made the whole journey much easier.

I’d love to hear your thoughts or questions if you’d like to know more details about my Lisbon city break!