Lisbon is a city with the feeling of a dreamland. Walking in bright yellow streets and hearing the bell toll of the old-fashioned trams, and seeing the colorful tiles on all the walls. Portugal’s final city has been overlooked for many years, except now everyone is recognizing it to be one of the most underrated-and also one of the greatest magnitudes that Europe has to offer.
Whether you enjoy old castles, high-class dessert or simply passing through pretty parts of Lisbon, there are so many things to do in Lisbon. In this guide, we will teach you how to plan your trip, where to eat, and what to see. Travelyas wants to be your travel inspiration partner, helping you to discover the best places to go and experience your next big adventure.
Why Lisbon Should Be on Your Europe Travel List
Lisbon, Portugal has so much fun if you’re going to Europe. First, it is very affordable. A lot more money is spent here for food and hotels than in bigger metros like London and Paris. It is both historic and modern living and tourism. The castle, for example, is hundreds of years old in the morning and in the afternoon a neat modern art museum. And, it is very safe and easier to walk around, so it can be a beginner-friendly destination for people who haven’t traveled much in Europe before.
Lisbon: The Number One Things to Take Home for A New International
When you arrive, you may ask yourself where to begin. The best things in Lisbon that are impossible to miss.
Discover Alfama – The Oldest Neighborhood of Lisbon
Alfama is the beating heart of the city.
The Vibe: You will hear Fado music (Singing Portuguese traditional) from neighborhood coffee cafes.
Best Time to See — Get ready in the morning, when it is quiet, or at sunset, for prime viewing.
Photo Plots: Every corner of Alfama resembles a postcard, but particularly in this case, the “Miradouro de Santa Luzia.” You will surely notice lots of flowers and tiles on there.
Ride the iconic Tram 28
The tiny yellow Tram 28 is a landmark of the city. It rattles, rasps, and squeaks as it scales up the stairs.
- The Path: Here you get to the popular cities, Graça, Alfama, and Baixa.
- Expert Point: Keep your bag right next to your pocket, to avoid scams or pickpockets! Make sure to catch the tram to your first stop (Martim Moniz) ahead of time so you can have a seat.
Be part of Belém – history, monuments & pastéis de nata
Belém: a beautiful area right by the river. A massive and stunning stone building: Jerónimos Monastery. You may also visit the Belém Tower, which used to guard the harbour of the city. The best part? Go to the famous local bakery to sample a Pastéis de Nata, a custard tart that melts in your mouth.
Best Viewpoints & Photo Spots in Lisbon
Lisbon (City of Seven Hills. This means there are lots of high spots called miradouros, is the best places to visit in Lisbon. Where you can view the ENTIRE city.
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: This is the peak of the city. It’s convenient enough with a panoramic view that’s great for shots.
- Miradouro de Santa Catarina: Very liked by young people and musicians.
- The Sunset Time: One of the most tranquil moments best places to go in Lisbon to experience the sunset is watching the sun go down over the red rooftops, and the 25 de Abril Bridge is feel like you are not in the world.
Food & Drink Experiences – Must-try things to do in Lisbon
Portuguese food is easy, fresh, and tasty. Old School Portuguese is the best restaurants in Lisbon.
- Bacalhau: Salted codfish. There are 365 ways to cook it, locals say, and one every day, round the year!
- Sardines: Grilled sliced sardines are ubiquitous, particularly in the summertime.
- Pastéis de Nata: You have to eat at least one of these each day!
Local Cafés & Time Out Market
For the time when you are uncertain what to eat, go to the Time Out Market. It is a large food hall where some of the top chefs in the city have tiny stalls. You have access to cheap snacks and luxury meals all from one spot.
Lisbon Day Trips (Hidden Gems)
If you have one more day or two to do some exploring just outside the city
- Sintra: A fairy tale town in the mountains. There is the bright yellow and red Pena Palace, the old Moorish Castle. You’ve stepped on a tourogue and got it right.
- Cascais: Cascais is a beautiful beach town, if you mean to visit the ocean. It is an ideal half-day trip to sit in the ocean water and stroll the beach’s sandy coastline.
Fun and Less Expensive Things to Do in Lisbon
This is a city without money.
- The Walking Tours: Many companies are available to take you for tours, and at the end of them, you can just tip.
- Freely visiting museums: Some museums are available free of charge on at least Sundays or certain holidays.
- Cheap Transport: Purchase a “Lisbon Card” or a revolving “Viva Viagem” card to cut down on the cost of trams, buses, and trains.
Here is a quick look:
Destination Vibe Key Hint
- Lisbon Bright, hilly and historic Trams and custard tarts
- Porto Slower pace and riverside. Things to do in Porto include wine tasting
- Greece is ancient and sunny. The Best places to visit in Greece offer ruins and beaches
- Greek Islands: Relaxing and blue. Finding the Best Greek island is great for a beach-only trip
Best Time to Visit Lisbon + Travel Tips
Weather by Season.
- Spring & Fall: The ideal time to visit! The weather is warm and not too hot.
- Summer: Very hot, too many people.
- Winter: It is chilly and sometimes rainy, but it is the cheapest time to visit.
Safety & Transport
Lisbon is very safe, but always watch out for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas. Use the Lisbon Card to get free entry to many sights and unlimited use of public transport.
3-Day Lisbon Itinerary
To help you plan instantly, here is a simple breakdown:
Day 1: Visit Alfama, Take Tram 28, and São Jorge Castle.
Day 2: Go back to Belém to get the monastery, the cakes and the Time Out Market.
Day 3: Take a daily trip to Sintra to check out the colorful palaces.
Conclusion
Lisbon is a city that stays in your heart long after you get off the plane66. From the sound in the streets to the tasty food, it’s a destination for all types of people who travel. We trust this guide will help you smartly explore Europe and expose you to the very best of Portugal68. For destination planning and travel inspiration, visit Travelyas.
If you’re planning your next European adventure, let Travelyas be your trusted guide for smart travel ideas, destination insights, and unforgettable experiences.
