The Best Things to Do in Lisbon: A Complete Guide for First Timers

Lisbon is a city of history and constant evolution. Portugal’s vibrant capital is brimming with historic attractions, charming neighborhoods, and trendy food spots, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Wondering what to do in Lisbon? We’ve got you covered. In this article, we attempt to scratch the surface of the best things to do in Lisbon, Portugal, but the city offers endless experiences to enjoy.

We’ll cover the must-see bucket list sights, the best places to visit in Lisbon to taste the city’s world-renowned cuisine, and picturesque day trips to get the most out of the surrounding areas. Use this article to help guide your next holiday or get to know the city better before moving to Lisbon.

What to Do in Lisbon: A Complete Guide for First Timers and Expats

Ultimately, the best things to do in Lisbon, Portugal, will look different for each person, but there are certain “must see in Lisbon” experiences that are almost a crime not to do if you are visiting Lisbon or living in the city. It’s also your opportunity to experience unique things to do in Lisbon that you can’t do anywhere else.

Whether wandering through ancient streets, riding historic trams, or admiring sweeping vistas, the best tourist attractions in Lisbon are sure to captivate.

Experience Lisbon through a walking tour

One of the best ways to get oriented in Lisbon (especially if you are a first-time visitor) is to join a guided walking tour. It’s a great way to dive into the city’s rich history, get an idea of where everything is located, learn insider tips and food recommendations from local guides, and discover hidden corners you might otherwise miss.

It’s a good idea to do a walking tour early in your trip so you can discover the best things to see in Lisbon as soon as possible. This way, you can make a note of what you may want to revisit and spend more time exploring later on.

There are plenty of walking tours to choose from online, so take time to read what each one includes and see which sights interest you most. Checking reviews is also a smart way to make sure it’s a quality experience.

Here are two excellent walking tours in Lisbon to get your research started:

• Withlocals: Lisbon Highlights & Hidden Gems
  A customizable, private tour that covers the main sights along with lesser-known, unusual things to do in Lisbon.
• We Hate Tourism Tours: A Walk in the Real City
  This tour offers a more modern and thought-provoking take on Lisbon. Instead of focusing solely on history, it highlights current social issues, urban development, and local perspectives in neighborhoods beyond the tourist track.

Decide on your favorite pastéis de nata

Lisbon’s food culture is a paradise for foodies, and no visit is complete without indulging in a pastel de nata, a creamy custard tart with a perfectly crisp crust.

To taste where it all began, head to Pastéis de Belém for the original recipe. Another great spot is Manteigaria, whose bakeries can be found all around the city.

Learn at one of Lisbon’s museums

Lisbon’s vibrant cultural scene is deeply rooted in its rich history and artistic traditions, which resonate through its neighborhoods, music, impressive churches, and festivals.

The city’s museums offer countless ways to immerse yourself in Portuguese culture. When it comes to what to see in Lisbon, the following museums should be at the top of the list:

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

This museum is a treasure trove of art and culture, featuring a diverse collection spanning ancient Egyptian artifacts, European masterpieces, and Asian art.

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is divided into two wings: The Founder’s Collection and the Modern Collection, offering something for every art enthusiast.

The art museums also offer a wide range of free concerts throughout the year, so keep an eye on their website to see what’s on when you’re in the city.

Visit the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

The National Tile Museum showcases the art of azulejos, Portugal’s iconic ceramic tiles. Housed in a stunning 16th-century convent, the museum traces the evolution of tile-making from the Moorish era to modern times.

Its collection includes intricate panels and the impressive Lisbon Panorama, a 23-meter-long tile masterpiece.

MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology

A striking modern addition to Lisbon’s cultural landscape, the MAAT is located on the banks of the Tagus River.

Its futuristic design houses exhibitions that explore the intersection of art, architecture, and technology, making it a must-visit for lovers of contemporary creativity.

Head out to Belém for an afternoon

Belém is a historic riverside district in western Lisbon that was once its own city. Today, it’s known for its grand monuments, maritime heritage, and as the birthplace of the famous pastel de nata.

Home to UNESCO-listed sites like the Tower of Belém and Jerónimos Monastery, it’s the perfect place to explore Portugal’s Age of Discovery legacy (and grab a pastry or two along the way).

Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)

Belém Tower is a symbol of Lisbon’s Age of Discovery.

Built in the 16th century, this fortress once guarded the city’s harbor and now serves as an enduring emblem of Portugal’s maritime achievements.

The ornate Manueline architecture of the Belem Tower, characterized by intricate carvings and maritime motifs, makes it one of Lisbon’s most photographed landmarks.

Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos)

This famous landmark in Belém honors Portugal’s explorers who charted unknown seas during the Age of Discovery.

Shaped like a ship’s prow, the Monument to the Discoveries features statues of notable navigators like Prince Henry the Navigator and offers an observation deck with sweeping views of the city and river.

Jerónimos Monastery

Another UNESCO-listed treasure, the Jerónimos Monastery, is a historic masterpiece.

Constructed to honor Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India, this sprawling complex features stunning cloisters, elaborate stonework, and a deep connection to Portugal’s seafaring history.

Don’t miss the tomb of Vasco da Gama, located within the monastery.

Hang out at LX Factory

A hub for Lisbon’s creative community, LX Factory is a repurposed industrial complex filled with creative shops, art studios, and restaurants. It is one of the top things to do in Portugal to get a quick snapshot of the Portuguese arts and culture scene.

Here, you can explore street art, browse unique boutiques, or enjoy a meal in a vibrant, artistic setting. Make sure to pop into the Read Slowly Bookstore (Livraria Ler Devagar) to see the charming art fixture of a person on a bike dangling from the ceiling.

Take in picture-perfect views at a miradouro

If you’re seeking the best city views, Lisbon knows how to deliver. You’ll find many miradouros throughout the city, which is the Portuguese term for a viewpoint or lookout point.

To start, visit the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, the highest viewpoint in Lisbon, for gorgeous panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River.

For a livelier vibe, the Miradouro de Santa Catarina is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering a fantastic vantage point, especially at sunset.

Don’t miss the Elevador de Santa Justa (Santa Justa Elevator), a neo-Gothic elevator that provides stunning views from its observation deck, making it a memorable stop during your city exploration.

Other notable miradouros in the city include Miradouro da Graça, Miradouro de Santa Luzia, Miradouro das Portas do Sol, and Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.

Experience Lisbon’s culinary scene on a food tour

In 2024, Lisbon was crowned Europe’s Best Culinary City by the prestigious World Culinary Awards, solidifying its reputation as a gastronomic paradise.

From Michelin-starred restaurants to world-famous sweet treats and food markets, Lisbon offers something for every palate, making it a must-visit destination for foodies.

To experience a bit of everything within a short amount of time, try a food tour in the city, where a knowledgeable guide will take you to more than one eating spot to try some of Lisbon’s most iconic dishes. Some food tours will even include a cooking class, so that you can share the recipe with friends and family.

Another option is to explore the city’s contemporary food scene at the Time Out Market, where food stalls offer a mini food tour all conveniently in one location, and where the food is prepared by some of Lisbon’s best chefs.

Explore Lisbon’s best neighborhoods

The best neighborhoods in Lisbon each have their own atmosphere and character, so no trip to the city is complete without wandering through at least a few of them. Below, we explore some of the more popular neighborhoods to spend an afternoon.

Explore the historic Alfama neighborhood

Alfama is Lisbon’s soul, brimming with old-world charm and stories from its history. Located in central Lisbon, this oldest district is lined with iconic cobblestone streets that were laid down long before the invention of cars.

Lisbon is one of the best cities for simply wandering around, and there’s no better place to do so than in Alfama. Explore hidden courtyards and a Roman amphitheater, admire laundry draped from balconies, and stumble upon small squares where locals gather.

Alfama is also the birthplace of Fado music, and its taverns fill the air with its hauntingly beautiful melodies. While here, you can visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), Lisbon’s oldest church, which dates back to the 12th century, and take your time wandering up to São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) for unique views of the red-roofed cityscape.

Uncover the heart of Lisbon nightlife in Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto is Lisbon’s most famous nightlife district, known for its cobbled streets lined with lively bars and music venues.

As night falls, the area transforms into a bustling party hub where locals and tourists spill out into the streets, enjoying everything from traditional Portuguese wine to creative cocktails.

Don’t miss iconic spots like Park Bar, a rooftop bar with stunning views, which you enter through a parking lot, or one of the many cozy taverns offering live music for a soulful experience of Portugal’s nightlife.

Wander Baixa and Rossio

The Baixa district and Rossio Square are the heart of Lisbon’s vibrant city center. Baixa is known for its grand architecture, wide avenues, and charming squares rebuilt after the devastating 1755 earthquake.

Rossio Square, with its distinctive wave-patterned cobblestones, is a lively hub surrounded by cafes, theaters, and monuments. This area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a coffee break at one of the many open-air terraces.

Discover Chiado’s charm

Chiado sits on the hill west of Baixa, once a magnet for writers and intellectuals like Portugal’s most famous poet, Luís de Camões (who has a square here named after him). Today, it’s a lively mix of luxury shopping in Portugal, historic landmarks, and charming hillside streets with stunning views.

Chiado is best explored on foot, though funiculars are available if you’d rather skip the steep climb. As you wander, here are a few highlights worth stopping for:

• A Brasileira: Step into literary history at A Brasileira, one of Lisbon’s oldest and most emblematic cafes. It was once frequented by poet Fernando Pessoa, whose statue you will see out front.
• Livraria Bertrand: The world’s oldest bookstore still in operation
• Convento do Carmo: The roofless ruins are a reminder of the 1755 earthquake.
• Elevador de Santa Justa: This iron lift connects Baixa and Chiado, with stunning views at the top.

Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto, also has unique, historic neighborhoods. If you are interested in discovering Porto, our article has you covered: Things to Do in Porto.

Take a day trip to Sintra

Just a 40-minute drive or a short, direct train ride from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairy-tale town nestled in the foothills of the Sintra mountains. Famous for its colorful palaces, lush gardens, and mystical atmosphere, Sintra is yet another UNESCO World Heritage site.

Don’t miss the Pena Palace, a striking blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline architecture, and the Moorish Castle (Castelo dos Mouros), which offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Sintra also boasts the National Palace of Sintra and the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira, a palace with whimsical gardens and hidden tunnels.

Experience an evening of Fado

Fado, the soulful and melancholic music of Portugal, is deeply rooted in Lisbon’s identity. Traditionally performed in intimate taverns in Alfama or Bairro Alto, this genre tells stories of love, loss, and longing.

UNESCO has recognized Fado as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, making it a must-experience tradition in Lisbon.

Visit venues like Clube de Fado or Tasca do Chico for an unforgettable evening of music and emotion or visit the Fado Museum (Museu do Fado) for a deeper understanding of the origins of the music.

Walk the walls at the Castelo de São Jorge

Perched atop one of Lisbon’s seven hills, São Jorge Castle is yet another remnant of Lisbon’s Moorish past. Its commanding position provides panoramic views of the city and the stunning Tagus River.

The castle began as a defensive fortress and has since served as a royal palace, barracks, hospital, and prison. The castle was damaged in the 1755 earthquake and rebuilt during the 20th century.

The highlight of the castle is its walls, which offer stunning city views. When visiting, be sure to explore the ancient walls, towers, and the archaeological site within, that date back to the Iron Age.

Hit the beach in Cascais

A coastal town located just 30 minutes from Lisbon, Cascais is perfect for a relaxed day by the sea. The town is known for its charming marina, nearby beaches, and cobbled streets.

While you’re there, explore the beautiful Boca do Inferno cliffs, visit the historic Cascais Citadel, or enjoy the stunning gardens of Parque Marechal Carmona.

Aside from some of the best beaches in Portugal, Cascais also offers excellent seafood restaurants, where you can sample fresh fish while overlooking the ocean.

Many of the best golf courses on the Lisbon Coast are in Cascais, with many of them famous across the world and boasting beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Hop on the iconic Tram 28

A ride on Tram 28 is both a journey through Lisbon’s history and a delightful way to see its most picturesque neighborhoods.

This vintage yellow iconic tram clatters through some of the city’s highlights, including the narrow streets of Alfama, the lively central Baixa district, and the scenic hills of Graça. It’s a perfect way to relax while soaking in the charm of Lisbon city.

Aim to hop on early in the morning or late in the day to avoid crowds and secure a window seat for the best views and perfect Instagram shot!

Visit São Vicente de Fora monastery and church

Located in Alfama, São Vicente de Fora is a 17th-century monastery and church dedicated to Lisbon’s patron saint. Overlooking the city from a hillside perch, it’s a standout both for its history and its views.

Inside, visitors will find beautifully preserved azulejos tiles lining the cloisters. These include scenes from Portuguese history as well as a unique collection based on the Fables of Jean de La Fontaine, which are 17th-century French tales similar to Aesop’s fables, illustrated in blue and white tilework.

The monastery is also the final resting place of the monarchs of Portugal from the House of Braganza, Portugal’s last royal dynasty. Their tombs lie beneath a vaulted ceiling, and the sculpted figure kneeling in prayer over one of them has startled more than a few visitors who mistook it for a real person.

One of the highlights of a visit is the rooftop terrace, offering sweeping 360-degree views over Lisbon.

Final Thoughts

Portugal tourism has become an attention-grabber across the world, and, for those wondering what to do in Lisbon, Portugal, your options are endless. Each of these destinations and experiences in the Portuguese capital offers something unique, whether it’s history, culture, nature, a delicious treat, or the chance to relax by the sea.

For those tempted to make your stay a long-term one, the city offers amazing international schools for families, excellent properties, and gorgeous weather. Not to mention, the cost of living in Lisbon is quite affordable, especially compared to the US and other Western European capital cities.

At Goldcrest, our goal is to make finding your dream home in Portugal as simple as possible. As a buyer’s agent, we cater solely to your needs to ensure every requirement is met at the best price. Whether you are considering retiring in Lisbon or moving with family, you’ll be spoilt for choice by the fantastic properties available on the market, from modern apartments to waterfront villas close to the city.

If you are asking yourself, “can foreigners buy property in Lisbon“, you’ll be pleased to know that you’ll face no restrictions and the process is quite straightforward.

Interested in beginning your journey to Lisbon? Seeking out your ideal Lisbon real estate investment? Feel free to get in touch with us directly via the form below.