Travel Guide to Lisbon: What to Do & See (2025)

Lisbon is no longer Europe’s best-kept secret. This sun-drenched capital has become one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe, and for good reason. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, delectable food, postcard-perfect streets, and easy access to the coast, Lisbon effortlessly blends charm, culture, and adventure. Read on to discover our travel guide to Lisbon, Portugal.

During my time in Lisbon, I explored every corner - from the iconic yellow trams climbing the steep hills of Alfama to the creative cafés and boutiques of LX Factory. I uncovered hidden gems, made a few mistakes, and found the experiences truly worth your time. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or staying longer, this guide covers exactly what to do (and what to skip) to make the most of your trip.

Ready to fall in love with Portugal’s capital? Let’s dive into the ultimate Lisbon travel guide - packed with insider tips, must-see attractions, local eats, and unforgettable views.

Map Of Lisbon

About Lisbon

Currency: Euro

Language: Portuguese

Safety: Very safe but cities always have some crime

Affordability: You can have a very comfortable trip for cheap

Best Hotels In Lisbon

There are so many amazing hotels in Lisbon! We have made it easy by sorting the best hotels in Lisbon into budget Lisbon hotels, middle range Lisbon hotels, and luxury Lisbon hotels.

Budget Hotels in Lisbon

Tempo FLH Hotel - The Tempo FLH Hotel offers lovely accommodation for an amazing price! Located in the center of Lisbon near all of the most popular attractions, Tempo FLH Hotel is perfect for anyone who is looking for affordable hotels in Lisbon.

Pensão Amor Madam's Lodge - The Pensão Amor Madam's Lodge is an eco-friendly hotel in Lisbon that provides comfortable lodging for a fair price. Located just outside of the city center, Pensão Amor Madam's Lodge, has a bar, twenty four hour reception, breakfast and more.

Middle Range Hotels In Lisbon

Ferraria XVI - The centrally located Ferraria XVI Hotel is a great price for the quality of hotel. At the Ferraria XVI Hotel you will find an excellent breakfast, charming interior, twenty four hour reception, friendly staff, and more.

Casa dell'Arte Club House - The Casa dell'Arte Club House is a unique hotel with lovely Portuguese art throughout the property. If you want to feel like royalty stay in the old fashioned rooms covered in elegant art and chandeliers at The Casa dell'Arte Club House. Casa dell'Arte Club House is certainly one of the best boutique hotels in Lisbon.

Luxury Hotels In Lisbon

Torel Palace Lisbon - The Torel Palace Lisbon consists of three buildings, 2 of which were traditional 19th-century mansions. The unique Torel Palace Lisbon offers gardens, swimming pools, views of the Tagus River, and more. Each room at the Tagus Hotel is independently decorated. The Tagus Hotel is perfect for travelers looking for unique luxury hotels in Lisbon.

Montebelo Vista Alegre Lisboa Chiado Hotel - Another option for a luxury hotel in Lisbon is the Montebelo Vista Alegre Lisboa Chiado Hotel. At the Montebelo Vista Alegre Lisboa Chiado Hotel you will find an incredible restaurant, cozy rooms, stunning views, unique decor, and more.

Read Next - 8 of the best hotels in Lisbon, Portugal

Top Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal (2025 Edition)

Tower of Belem

The Tower of Belém is not only stunning but also steeped in fascinating history. Visiting this iconic Lisbon monument gave me a deeper appreciation for the Age of Exploration and the important role the tower played during that time. Located right on the waterfront, it’s the perfect spot to visit at sunset - when the golden light reflects off the river and the tower itself. For an even more magical experience, consider booking a sunset cruise from the Lisbon riverfront nearby.

🐟Lisbon Sunset Cruise (Includes Portuguese wine)

Lisbon Riverwalk

While in Lisbon you have to take a stroll along Lisbon riverwalk. Lisbon riverwalk is located next to a ton of great restaurants and you will usually find live music. Enjoy a morning coffee or sunset drink at the riverwalk. Keep an eye out for the Sanctuary of Christ the King-Portugal (from across the river), a monument the replicated Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Take a Day Trip To Sintra

Sintra is a stunning village just north of Lisbon (seriously like out of a story book). Marvel at the castles and enjoy a meal in the adorable village. I would recommend taking a tour because the castles can get booked out and the tours include transportation from Lisbon. The castels include the Park and Palace of Monserrate, The Moorish Castle, The National Palace of Sintra, and Pena Palace.

🏰Read Next - Sintra, Portugal Travel Guide

Arco da Rua Augusta

Arco da Rua Augusta is one of the most recognizable monuments in Lisbon. The stunning structure does not take long to visit but you should definitely see it. It is right next to the riverwalk so it will be easy to see while in that part of the city. Make sure to stop at any markets or shops around the Arco da Rua Augusta.

Miradouros

Miradouros is a lovely viewpoint in Lisbon. My hotel was right near Miradouros and a had my coffee here almost every morning, it was magical. It does not take long to visit and you will probably end up accidentally finding it. It is so pretty and a great photo opt.

Lx Factory

I absolutely loved exploring LX Factory - it’s one of Lisbon’s coolest creative hubs. The space is lined with unique local shops, trendy cafés, and delicious food options. Many of the shops sell handmade goods, and you can even catch artisans at work, which makes the experience feel extra special.

While you're there, don’t miss the chocolate cake at Landeau Chocolate - it’s rich, decadent, and totally worth the hype. Pair it with a coffee for the perfect afternoon treat.

Eat pastéis de nata

Pastéis de nata is a custard filled pastry. Pastéis de nata are found all throughout Portugal and just about everywhere in Lisbon. So it is safe to say you must try one while in Lisbon! I loved the ones at Pasteis de Belem.

Jéronimos Monastery

Jerónimos Monastery is just a short walk from the Tower of Belém and absolutely worth a visit. Whether you’re a history lover or simply appreciate stunning architecture, this limestone masterpiece from the 1500s will leave you in awe. Take your time wandering through its grand cloisters and ornate details - it's one of Lisbon’s most impressive landmarks.

Praça do Comércio

Praça do Comercio is a gorgeous plaza located right next to the Lisbon river walk. Chances are that you will be spending a lot of time on the Lisbon riverfront because it is just so beautiful and near all of the cities main attractions. The easiest way to get to Praça do Comercio is by first finding the iconic Arco da Rua Augusta and simply walking through it.

The Beach

There are plenty of gorgeous beaches a short drive from Lisbon! The beaches of Portugal are known for having incredible surf and adorable beach towns right near them.

One of our favorite beach towns in Portugal is Ericeira, an adorable coastal town just 30 minutes from Lisbon.

If you are interested in seeing the largest waves in the world head north to Nazare. Nazare can be a day trip from Lisbon or an overnight.

🏄Read Next - A Quick Guide To Nazare, Portugal

Go Hiking

Portugal is known for its dramatic coastline, where rocky cliffs meet the stunning blue sea- an incredible sight to behold. Around Lisbon, there are many hikes that perfectly showcase this natural beauty. I recommend exploring Praia da Maçãs or the Trilho do Tejo trail for unforgettable views. If you love nature and staying active as much as I do, hiking in Portugal is an absolute must!

Explore The Alfama Neighborhood

I could wander around the Alama neighborhood all day long. Alama is a neighborhood in Lisbon known for its beautiful architecture and Arabic influence. If you want to see the famous blue tiles you should add the Alfama neighborhood to your Lisbon itinerary.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Padrao dos Descobrimentos is located right next to the Tower of Belem and Jeronimos Monastery. Made in honor of Prince Henry and the Age of Exploration this amazing plaza and statue should not be missed!

Palácio Nacional de Ajuda

The Palácio Nacional de Ajudá is full of historic art. The Palacio is now declared a national monument. This amazing palace is unfinished but that doesn't mean that it is any less gorgeous. This palace is one of the most beautiful palaces I have seen in my life. So if you love historic art and amazing places definitely add this to your Lisbon itinerary.

Where To Dine In Lisbon

Best Coffee Shops In Lisbon

• Copenhagen Coffee Lab - I know that Copenhagen Coffee Lab is not specific to Lisbon. But if you ever have the opportunity to go the Copenhagen Coffee Lab go! The pastries are so good and so is the coffee. We went here every morning. I am ready to fly back just to get their cardamom bun.
• Dear Breakfast - You have probably read on a few other blogs about Dear Breakfast. I am here to tell you that it is worth it. I got the best omelette I've ever had! If you want an instagram worthy breakfast add Dear Breakfast to your Lisbon itinerary.
• Hello Kristof - Hello Kristof has such a lovely vibe. There are tons of healthy options and great coffee
• The Mill - The Mill is another top rated breakfast place in Lisbon. The coffee and vibe was great!

Read Next - 12 Best Coffee Shops In Lisbon, Portugal

Best Restaurants In Lisbon

• Alma - Alma is a high end Portuguese restaurant in Lisbon. Alma is on the pricier side but is so worth it. Try to make a reservation as it is a popular spot.
• Lisboa Tu e Eu 2 - Lisboa Tu e Eu 2 is another Portuguese restaurant. It is way more affordable and causal than Alma.
• Coyo Taco -  If you are sick of Portuguese food Coyo Taco is a great choose to mix it up.

How To Get Around Lisbon

In the other cities in Portugal you can pretty much walk anywhere. But Lisbon is so much bigger than cities like Porto and Aveiro. You will need some form of transportation in Lisbon. Not to mention - the hills in the city are so tiring to climb.

First, you could always just order Ubers! This is what we did and it was great for our Lisbon itinerary. Ubers in Portugal are so cheap - for USA standards.

Of course you could always take Tram 28. Tram 28 goes through Estrela, Bairro Alto, Barxia, Alfama, Chiado, and Gracia Neighborhoods. So pretty much all of Lisbon.

My only issue with Tram 28 is that it seems extremely uncomfortable to ride in, as it is usually packed with tourists. I think of Tram 28 as more of an experience rather than a mode of transportation.

Tram 28 is cheaper than Uber.

When To Visit Lisbon

Lisbon is a great place to visit year round! The winter is always mild and the summers are not too hot. If you are looking for the least expensive and crowded time to visit I would recommend early May or April. The weather is perfect and you can get good deals on flights and accommodation.

What To Aviod In Lisbon

I would avoid Tram 28. It gets so crowded and uncomfortable. There are better ways to get around the city. I would just admire it from a distance.

Next, I would avoid Time Out Market. Time Out Market is a food market with many different vendors selling food. I thought the food was good. But it was insanely crowded and not worth it. There are so many delicious restaurants and more local spots in Lisbon that, I think, are so much better.

You should not stop at Santa Justa Lift. The is a long line is not worth waiting in. The viewpoint is nice, but you are in the city of seven hills - you will find so many viewpoints when you least expect it. Santa Justa Lift will just take time and money.

Most of all I would stay away from Pink Street. It was honestly so weird on Pink Street. It was a mix of girls trying to get instagram pictures (and failing) and Drunk guys photo bombing and being obnoxious. Pink Street is lined with pubs so you will get a lot of drunk people. It was just really uncomfortable walking down Pink Street. Definitely not a place for kids! If you do decide to keep Pink Street on your Lisbon itinerary just be careful.

A Complete Guide To Lisbon Wrap Up

Lisbon is such an amazing city! We hope that this complete guide to Lisbon helps you plan the best trip to the Portuguese capital. If you liked this post you will love our guide to 7 Days In Portugal on a Budget and our Guide To Porto.