Lisbon is packed to the brim with fascinating museums, one-of-a-kind vibrant neighborhoods, stunning architecture and, truly, tons to do. Most people leave the city wishing they had more time. With that in mind, we’ve put together this quick Lisbon travel guide so you can arrive knowing all the best things to do and the best places to see in Lisbon, from dining at Michelin star restaurants to sunny afternoons strolling the streets.
Make sure to look up the best ways to get from Lisbon Airport to the city to find the best option for you and your travel party. If you’re tight on budget, public transportation is the best value-for-money option, while if you prefer direct and comfortable transportation, a Lisbon Airport transfer is the best choice.
First up: A trip on Tram 28
London has its bright red double-decker buses. San Francisco has its famous cable cars. Lisbon’s iconic public transport is the tram! You haven’t experienced life in Lisbon without hopping on its most famous tram line, Tram 28. This scenic route will take you all the way from Martim Moniz to Campo Ourique, passing some of the most famous neighborhoods and sites in Lisbon. Barrio Alto, Graça, St. George’s Castle, and Alfama all have their own stop on the Tram 28, so not only is the actual experience of riding on the tram unforgettable, it’s the perfect way to see the city. Most of the trams on this line date back to World War II, so expect a little bit of a bumpy ride. We say it only adds to the charm.
Tip: The tickets cost €3.10 and can be purchased directly from the driver while boarding.
Get off the tram at Alfama
There’s a reason why all your friends, relatives, and complete strangers who learned of your trip told you to visit Alfama. This vibrant neighborhood dates back to the days of the Moors, and it’s the oldest part of the city. Walking its narrow roads and coiling streets feels like stepping back in time to the 17th century. Sprawling with tiny souvenir shops, bars, and cafes, Alfama is the perfect place to enjoy some traditional Portuguese cuisine. Not only are some of the most popular attractions, such as St. George’s Castle, Sé Cathedral, and Feira de Ladra, found in this eclectic neighborhood, but it’s also the birthplace of Fado, a type of music you don’t want to miss while in the city. Ditch your maps and get lost in Alfama; it’s truly one of the best things to see in Lisbon, Portugal.
Take a gander at the Lisbon Oceanarium
This impressive cylindrical building is home to the largest indoor aquarium in Europe, and by far one of the top things to see in Lisbon. Looming out over the shimmering waters of the Tagus Estuary, Lisbon Oceanarium is filled to the brim with magical marine life and exhibits. Get up close and personal with vibrant tropical fish, powerful sharks, playful Manta rays, and cuddly penguins. They have created a stunning underwater world where people of all ages can learn about our oceans and fall in love with marine life all over again. Exhibits on coral and sea anemones teach you how to care for our oceans, while the large boating lagoon with pedalos will get you out for some fun on the water. Truly, no Lisbon city guide would be complete without it.
Address:
Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisboa, Portugal
Hours:
10:00 to 19:00
Pull up a chair at Belcanto
Whether you’re well acquainted with the Michelin Guide Lisbon (or a fine dining experience is just something you’d like to try on vacation) we’ve got the place for you. Belcanto by José Avillez is not only the 25th best restaurant in the entire world, but it’s stunning, centrally located, and quite reasonable in price. You can opt for the full tasting menu experience for €250 or even opt for an à la carte experience. The restaurant seats just 45 guests in an intimate setting with high vaulted ceilings and minimalist chandeliers. The menu is 70% locally caught fresh seafood, and Avillez’s philosophy is that “flavor comes first and technique serves the product”.
Address:
R. Serpa Pinto 10A, 1200-026 Lisboa, Portugal
Reservations:
Click here
Indulge in the history of Belém
If you’re searching for some Lisbon things to do and see in order to feel like a local, you can’t miss Belém. This stunning waterfront neighborhood is home to a large collection of the city’s most important historical monuments and museums. You can spend the morning exploring the Jerónimos Monastery, Discoveries Monument, and the Belém Palace, the residence of Portugal’s president. In the afternoon, you can stroll along the waterfront, explore the fascinating Coleção Berardo Museum, or enjoy a traditional Portuguese tart in one of the most popular bakeries in the area, Pasteis de Belém. One attraction not to miss while in Belém is the famous Belém Tower. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a Gothic and Manueline architectural masterpiece and played a huge role in protecting Portugal’s coast during the Age of Discoveries. A visit to Belém is the easiest way to knock five things off your “things to see Lisbon” list in one day.
Frequently asked questions
What should I not miss in Lisbon? 
Don’t leave without exploring Alfama’s winding medieval streets – it’s the oldest neighborhood, where Fado music was born, and home to St. George’s Castle and stunning views over the city. Take the iconic Tram 28 that connects all the major neighborhoods and attractions, from Barrio Alto to Graça, giving you a scenic tour of the city in vintage World War II-era trams. The Belém district is essential for history buffs, where you can cross off several major attractions off your things to see Lisbon list in one afternoon, including Jerónimos Monastery and the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower.
What is Lisbon best known for?
Lisbon is famous for its stunning azulejo tiles that decorate buildings throughout the city, its melancholic Fado music that echoes through Alfama’s narrow streets, and those iconic yellow Tram 28 rides that have become synonymous with the city. The Castle of São Jorge perched on the highest point offers unforgettable panoramic views, while the city’s incredible seafood and pastéis de nata (custard tarts) from places like Pastéis de Belém have made it a culinary destination. The historic Belém waterfront district showcases Portugal’s Age of Discoveries heritage through magnificent monuments and museums.
What to avoid in Lisbon?
Steer clear of restaurants with giant pictures of food or “TOURIST MENUS” where aggressive staff try to lure you inside – these are overpriced tourist traps. Avoid taxi scams by using ride-sharing apps or knowing your route beforehand, as some drivers take longer routes or overcharge, especially from the airport. Never buy tickets from street vendors or fall for street games and magic tricks designed to separate tourists from their money.
What is the number one thing to see in Lisbon?
The Castle of São Jorge is absolutely unmissable – it’s the highest point in the city set among Lisbon’s most typical neighborhoods, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the terracotta rooftops and the Tagus River. This medieval fortress provides the perfect introduction to Lisbon’s history while giving you your bearings for exploring the rest of the city. From there, you can easily wander down into the atmospheric Alfama neighborhood to experience authentic Portuguese culture and hear traditional Fado music.
What is the prettiest part of Lisbon?
Alfama takes the crown as the most picturesque neighborhood – this ancient Moorish quarter with its labyrinthine cobblestone streets, colorful houses draped with laundry, and stunning viewpoints feels like stepping back centuries. The Belém waterfront district runs a close second with its grand monuments like Jerónimos Monastery and the fairy-tale Belém Tower set against the backdrop of the Tagus River. For Instagram-worthy shots and romantic sunset views, the various miradouros (viewpoints) scattered throughout these neighborhoods offer some of the most beautiful panoramas in all of Europe.
