The Best of Lisbon: Your Guide to Must-See Sights, Must-Do Activities, and Must-Try Foods
Curated By
Lauren Baroevich
Curator’s statement
Portugal has emerged as a top travel destination in recent years, offering stunning beaches, tile-clad cities, renowned wine regions, and a vibrant culinary scene—there’s something for everyone! The country boasts a rich history, experiencing a “golden age” of exploration from the 12th to 17th centuries, followed by a long period of decline, including much of the 20th century under a dictatorship. The last 50 years have seen Portugal establish itself as a modern republic, attracting both visitors and new residents. We love to see a glow up! I had to see if Portugal lived up to the hype, and it absolutely did. Unlike other major cities that are growing weary of tourism, Lisbon’s locals genuinely embrace their city’s recent success. The warm and inviting Portuguese people are truly the highlight and a solid reason to visit.
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Where to stay in Lisbon, Portugal
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Things to do in Lisbon, Portugal
Explore Lisbon’s diverse neighborhoods:
Alfama: The city’s oldest neighborhood, characterized by beautiful classic buildings and narrow, cobblestone streets winding down from Castelo de São Jorge. Don’t miss the stunning viewpoints
Baixa: Lisbon’s historic and commercial core, rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake with neoclassical architecture around Commerce and Rossio squares. Its bustling pedestrian streets are filled with traditional seafood restaurants and souvenir shops
Bairro Alto: A bohemian district known for its steep cobbled streets, the Bica Funicular, the lavish São Roque Church, and panoramic views from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Many houses are adorned with vibrant street art. At night, a diverse crowd fills the quirky bars, and Fado music can be heard from traditional restaurants.
Chiado: Lisbon’s central shopping and theater district, featuring high-end boutiques, restaurants, and the historic Bertrand Bookstore. It’s conveniently located between Baixa, Alfama, and Bairro Alto, and its elevated position means less uphill walking if you choose to stay there.
Must-see and must-do:
Castelo de São Jorge: This historic castle offers breathtaking city views. For a €10 fee, you can explore the grounds and walk along the castle walls. Consider taking the 28 tram up the hill and walking down to the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa).
Jerónimos Monastery: A former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome, located near the Tagus River. Stunning Manueline architecture and significant history.
Belém Tower: A 16th-century fortification, significant as a departure and arrival point for Portuguese explorers.
LX Factory: A historical industrial complex transformed into a hub of unique restaurants and shops.
National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo): Housed in a former convent, this peaceful museum showcases the evolution of azulejos (tiles) over centuries. An essential visit for tile enthusiasts.
Electric tuk-tuk Tour: Explore the city on an electric tuk-tuk for a unique perspective.
Shopping at Feira da Ladra: Enjoy an afternoon of shopping at this vibrant market.
Check out these great viewpoints:
Miradouro de Santa Luzia has a nice view out towards the river. There are some cool tiles to check out on the side of the Igreja de Santa Luzia (right next to the viewpoint) depicting a battle for the Castelo.
Miradouro das Portas do Sol, which has even better views out towards the Tagus River, including the Igreja de São Vicente de Fora out to the northeast on the hill. There is a nice little outdoor terrace with a bar, which would be a lovely place to enjoy a drink while watching the sun light up the hillside.
Places to eat & drink in Lisbon, Portugal
Pastel de nata: Indulge in Portugal's iconic egg custard tart.
Manteigaria: Prepare for a truly authentic pastel de nata experience at Manteigaria. This highly-rated establishment is celebrated for its incredibly addictive tarts, which are made fresh throughout the day right before your eyes. Beyond the star attraction, Manteigaria also boasts some fabulous coffee, the perfect accompaniment to their warm, flaky pastéis.
Pastéis de Belém: The original shop since 1837, offering the best pastel de nata (1.15€ per pastry). Enjoy them warm with a packet of cinnamon. You can dine in or take them to-go and enjoy them at nearby Praça do Império Garden or Garden Vasco da Gama.
Canned fish: Even if you're skeptical, try canned fish at least once in Lisbon.
Miss Can is highly recommended. This establishment, owned by a woman whose family has generations of experience in the fishing industry, ensures sustainable practices from fish to can. Their products also make great souvenirs.
Bar Alimentar: Part wine shop, part bar, this small but mighty spot near Campo de Ourique is a local favorite for tinned fish, charcuterie, and bold wines.
A Ginjinha: Visit this classic liquor store to try Ginjinha, a strong liqueur made from ginjinha berries, tasting like alcoholic cherries. A few locations even serve Ginja in a edible chocolate cup.
Casa das Bifanas: This legendary eatery is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Lisbon. It's particularly famous for its namesake, the Bifana, a classic Portuguese sandwich. The Bifana here is a simple; thinly sliced pork then fried and served on a fresh, crusty bread roll. This embodies the spirit of traditional Portuguese comfort food.
Da Noi: This restaurant elevates fusion cuisine to an art form, presenting insanely delicious takes on classic dishes. Reservations are highly recommended to ensure a table at this culinary gem.
Terra Nova: Situated charmingly in the heart of the Praça do Comércio, Terra Nova is a delightful spot for those seeking authentic Portuguese flavors. It offers a menu brimming with traditional options, providing a comforting and familiar taste of local cuisine.
Pica-Pau: For a taste of modern Lisbon energy infused with vintage flair, Pica-Pau is the place to be. This cozy corner spot is renowned for its selection of natural wines, creative tavern snacks, and a lively atmosphere that extends into the late hours, making it perfect for an evening out.
Belcanto: A culinary cornerstone of Lisbon, Belcanto is the Michelin-starred flagship restaurant of acclaimed Chef José Avillez. Here, classic Portuguese flavors are masterfully presented through a unique and sophisticated tasting menu, offering an unforgettable gastronomic journey that showcases the pinnacle of Portuguese fine dining.
Need to know
Lisbon's central location in Portugal makes it an ideal base for exploring a variety of regions, whether you're looking for enriching day trips or a convenient starting point for longer excursions. From the vibrant capital, you can easily venture north to the renowned wine regions or south to the sun-drenched beaches.
Day trips:
Évora: Located in the Alentejo region, Évora is a captivating medieval-walled city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Journey to Évora by train and discover a treasure trove of Roman ruins, including the remarkably preserved Roman Temple of Évora. Beyond its ancient past, Évora boasts the chilling yet fascinating Chapel of Bones and one of Portugal's oldest and most prestigious universities. Stroll through its charming historic center, discover traditional crafts, and savor the rich flavors of Alentejo cuisine. This city provides a glimpse into Portugal's rich history and offers delicious regional cuisine.
Sintra and Cascais: Just under an hour from Lisbon, the two towns each offering unique glimpses into Portugal's past and present. Sintra, a whimsical fairytale town showcases Portugal's old money through its historic, lavish mansions, Moorish ruins, and majestic hilltop palaces. In stark contrast, Cascais embodies modern flare with its upscale beach town vibe, chic marina, charming cobblestone streets, and delicious seafood. Both towns, though different, promise an enchanting experience.
Sintra highlights:
National Palace of Pena: A gorgeous, brightly colored castle on a hill. Enjoy a memorable day hiking to both this palace and the Moorish Castle.
Quinta da Regaleira: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 16th-century Renaissance-style mansion evolved with its different owners.
Sintra Old Town: Don't miss exploring the old town, famous for its "travesseiro" pastries (puff pastries with egg and almond cream). Piriquita is a top spot to try them.
Cascais highlights:
Boca do Inferno: This gorgeous chasm in the seaside cliffs offers a dramatic beach viewpoint.
Praça 5 de Outubro: The main square, perfect for a coffee break at its lively outdoor cafes.
Wandering the town: Explore the charming cobblestone streets, ornate gardens, colorful mansions, old fishing boats, tiled sidewalks, and colorful Portuguese houses. Get lost in the narrow alleyways.
Getting hungry? Check out Santinis, famous for its handmade gelato. Hifen: A great spot for lunch, but save room for dessert, their pastry chef, Martim, spent over 100 hours perfecting his chocolate walnut nougat dessert, topped with homemade passionfruit ice cream from Santinni.
Wanting to explore more of Portugal?
To the north:
Porto: A picturesque city known for its historic Ribeira district, iconic bridges, and, of course, its world-famous Port wine. You can explore its charming narrow streets, visit a Port wine cellar for a tasting, and enjoy a scenic cruise along the Douro River.
The Douro Valley: Extending inland from Porto, this stunning region is a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its terraced vineyards, dramatic landscapes, and the production of Port wine. A trip here often involves scenic drives, wine tastings at traditional quintas (wine estates), and boat trips that offer breathtaking views of the river and surrounding hills.
To the south:
The Algarve: Portugal's southernmost region, famous for its stunning coastline, golden sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming fishing villages. It's a popular destination for sun-seekers, water sports enthusiasts, and those looking to relax by the sea.
Benagil Caves: A must-see natural wonder, the Benagil Caves are a series of breathtaking sea caves accessible by boat or kayak. The most famous, Algar de Benagil, features a large opening in its ceiling that bathes the sandy interior in a magical glow.
Praia da Marinha: Often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Praia da Marinha is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Its iconic rock formations make it a photographer's paradise.
Albufeira: Once a quaint fishing village, Albufeira has transformed into a bustling holiday destination, attracting visitors with its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. The modern marina, lined with colorful apartments, serves as a hub for local fishermen and a departure point for diving excursions, dolphin-watching tours, and boat trips exploring the stunning coastline. The town also boasts a charming Old Town with cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and lively squares.
Faro: For a more authentic Portuguese experience, visit Faro, the capital of the Algarve. This less-touristy city offers a beautiful Old Town (Cidade Velha), encircled by ancient walls. Explore the serene Ria Formosa Natural Park, a protected lagoon system with diverse wildlife and picturesque islands. Discover unspoiled beaches just a short ferry ride away and indulge in the excellent local restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
The Algarve Wine Region: The Algarve is also gaining recognition for its burgeoning wine industry. Embark on a delightful wine-tasting tour and discover the region's unique varietals at these esteemed wineries, each offering a distinct experience that reflects the rich terroir and passionate winemaking traditions of the region. Many wineries also offer additional experiences such as gourmet dining, cooking classes, and even accommodation, making them ideal destinations for a truly immersive wine tourism experience.
Travel Advisor
Lauren Baroevich
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