Lisbon is a place extremely close to our hearts, Slaney's family live there and we visit as frequently as we can. This year, we are returning twice to focus on work, explore the city more and spend time with family.
The city is a constantly evolving place. It's beautiful combination of traditional and contemporary is evident throughout. The city is well set up for tourism but there is so much traditional and authentic Portuguese charm, something that can sometimes get lost in these major cities. Lisbon has suceeded. Every street feels different. The city is vibrant, colourful, charming, exciting and steeped in history and culture.
So is Lisbon worth going to? Absolutely yes! If you are heading to Portugal, make sure you spend time in Lisbon exploring it's charm, hospitality, beautiful architecture, unbeatable viewing points and incredible food.
Access our shared map with all our favourite places pinned.
Getting there
Flying
Lisbon Airport is officially known as Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport. Additionally, it is often referred to simply as Lisbon Portela Airport.
The airport is approximately 25 min drive from the centre of Lisbon
Most airlines fly into Lisbon airport
By train
Portugal is well connected by train, Lisbon has 3 major train stations:
Lisbon Oriente Station: Located in the Parque das Nações district.
Lisbon Santa Apolónia Station: Situated near the city center, Santa Apolónia is one of the oldest railway stations in Lisbon and serves as a major transportation link.
Lisbon Rossio Station:Â Also known as Rossio Railway Station, it is located in the heart of Lisbon and is a historic station known for its architectural beauty. It primarily serves suburban train lines.
Getting around
Public Transportation:
Metro:Â Lisbon's metro system is efficient and connects major parts of the city. It's a quick and convenient way to travel.
Trams:Â The iconic yellow trams, especially Tram 28, offer a scenic ride through historic neighborhoods.
Buses:Â Lisbon has an extensive bus network covering the entire city and surrounding areas.
Walking:
Lisbon is a city with many hills, but it's also quite walkable, especially in the central areas. Walking allows you to explore narrow streets, discover hidden gems, and experience the local atmosphere.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing:
Taxis are readily available in Lisbon, and they are relatively affordable compared to some other European cities.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are also popular and can be a convenient option, especially for late-night travel.
Biking and scooters
Lisbon has been making efforts to become more bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing schemes. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city at your own pace. You can also hop on and off e-scooters. An option we regularly opt for. Just avoid the cobble stones.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus:
A hop-on hop-off bus tour is a convenient way to see the major attractions in a short amount of time. It allows you to explore at your own pace while providing information about the city's landmarks.
Ferries and Boats:
If you plan to visit areas along the river, such as Belém, you can take advantage of ferries and boats.
Car Rental:
Renting a car is advisable if you plan to explore areas outside the city or take day trips to nearby attractions. However, within the city, parking can be challenging, and traffic may be congested during peak hours.
Check out rentalcars.com for cheap rental car options.
Areas to visit/ consider for accomodation
Baixa
The heart of Lisbon, Baixa is the downtown area with wide boulevards, historic squares, and elegant architecture. It's close to major attractions, shopping districts, and public transportation.
Alfama
This is the oldest district in Lisbon, known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and Fado music. Alfama offers a charming and traditional atmosphere, and it's an excellent choice for those who want a taste of Lisbon's authentic culture.
Chiado:Â
A fashionable and upscale area, Chiado is known for its theaters, historic cafes, and boutique shops. It's a central location with a mix of cultural attractions and modern amenities.
PrÃncipe Real:Â
This area is known for its leafy squares, trendy shops, and a more relaxed atmosphere. It's a bit quieter than Bairro Alto but still within walking distance to many attractions. Slaney also has an airb&b very close to this area, a perfect stay if you prefer to stay in an air b&b when travelling.
Avenida da Liberdade:Â
A grand avenue lined with luxury hotels, designer stores, and theators. It's a central location with easy access to transportation and cultural attractions.
All these areas are pinned for you in our map of Lisbon
Lisbon Q&A
What is Lisbon famous for? Lisbon, Portugal's capital, is famous for its stunning architecture, historic landmarks like São Jorge Castle and Belém Tower, and vibrant cultural scene. Renowned for its delicious cuisine, traditional Fado music, and picturesque viewpoints, Lisbon offers visitors a blend of rich history, contemporary charm, and breathtaking vistas over the Tagus River.
Is Lisbon cheap or expensive? Lisbon can be considered relatively affordable compared to other European capitals, making it an attractive destination for travelers on a budget. Prices for accommodation, dining, and transportation are generally lower than in cities like London or Paris. However, certain areas and establishments cater to luxury travelers and may have higher prices. Overall, Lisbon offers a range of options to suit different budgets, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Is Lisbon foreigner friendly? Yes, Lisbon is generally considered to be very foreigner-friendly. The city attracts a large number of tourists and expatriates, so locals are accustomed to interacting with people from different countries and cultures. Many people in Lisbon, especially in tourist areas and establishments, speak English, making it easier for visitors to communicate. Additionally, Portuguese people are known for their warmth and hospitality, welcoming visitors with open arms. Overall, Lisbon offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for travelers from around the world.
Must-see attractions
Walking tour
They leave regularly from Praça de LuÃs de Camões and Rossio Square. We personally love the tours focusing on the oldest part of the city surrounding the castle: Alfama, Mouraria, Castello and Graça. We highly recommend doing this as a first activity when you touch down in Lisbon so you can get your bearings, absorb the history and explore the streets.
Belem
Belem is home to many popular tourist attractions like the Discoveries Monument, Belem Tower, Maritime Museum, Jeronimos Monastery, Maat Museum, Cultural Centre Belem (CCB) and Coach Museum to name a few. The Olive Garden in the CCB is one of our favorite places to relax in Belem. An activity we enjoy is to cycle from Cais do Sodre to Belem along the river. There are bike rental shops in Cais Sodre (BikeIberia for example). Drop into the LX factory on the way to or back. Otherwise, you can take the train from Cais do Sodre train station, about 30 minutes.
Points - Miradouro
Lisbon is built on hills so there are many vantage points from which you get fantastic vistas of the city, known as “Miradouro ''. Don't miss the Miradouro Nossa Senhora do Monte Belvedere, the highest point in the city, which is a short walk from Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen known as Miradouro De Graça, very popular spot for drinks/sunset, but great during the day and night. Short walk from the house is Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, another must see Miradouro.
For a deep dive into our favourite sightseeing and activities CLICK HERE
Lisbon's best restaurants
Lisbon is renowned for it's gastronomy. You will not leave hungry or disappointed. From traditional Portuguese tascas to more contemporary eclectic cuisine, Lisbons has it all.
Ramiros: Ramiro’s is Lisbon’s iconic fish eatery, an institution - totally laid back, no reservations but queue goes quick. Shellfish is what we go for here - clams, crab, prawns etc, but everything is good.
Ze Da Mouraria: One of the great tasca experiences, lunch only, portions are huge, mains usually shared between 2 or more people. Love their beef dish. Ze Da Mouraria 2 opens for dinner, same food but lacks the atmosphere of 1.
Time Out Market: Food market, very touristy but must-see for most visitors. There is a great selection to choose from and a chaotic but vibrant atmosphere. Grab a spritz and settle into a great selection of food.
See here for our our full list of Lisbons best restaurants
Nightlife
Lisbon comes alive at night with an endless array of bars. The atmosphere is exceptional. Some key areas to explore are Barrio Alto, cais do sodre and pink street.
Check out or list of Lisbon's best bars
Day trips
Sintra:Â A short drive from Lisbon, Sintra is known for its fairytale-like palaces and beautiful landscapes. Visit Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and explore the charming town center. if visiting, stop at Azenhas do Mar a wonderful seaside town. Azenhas do Mar Restaurant is a beautiful restaurant that overlooks the water. Enjoy seafood and go for an after lunch dip. Our favourite day trip from Lisbon.
Cascais and Estoril:Â Head west along the coast to Cascais and Estoril. Enjoy the coastal drive, visit the beaches, and explore the charming towns. The Boca do Inferno (Hell's Mouth) is a notable natural attraction in the area.
Évora: Venture east to the historic city of Évora, known for its well-preserved Roman temple, medieval architecture, and unique atmosphere. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich cultural and historical heritage.
View these destinations on our pinned-for-you-map
Weekend trips
Vila Nova Milfontes: Southwest of Lisbon and a 2.5 hour drive. If you have the time, we highly recommend you visit here. We recently spent a few days here with Slaney's family and were blown away. See our recommendations here. A popular destination for both Portuguese and international tourists, especially during the summer months. It provides a more relaxed and less crowded atmosphere compared to some of the more bustling tourist spots in Portugal. Here you can enjoy an array of outdoor activities, stunning beaches, wonderful restaurants, history and the most picturesque streets and boutique stores.
Algarve Coast:Â For a longer road trip, drive south to explore the stunning beaches and picturesque villages along the Algarve coast. Lagos, Albufeira, and Faro are popular destinations known for their beautiful coastline. Slaney's Dad lives here and we spend a lot of time here. See our full guide to visiting The Algarve here
10 practical tips for carefree travel in Lisbon
Comfortable Footwear: Lisbon's streets are often steep and paved with cobblestones, so wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
Public Transportation: Utilize Lisbon's efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and metro, to navigate the city. Consider purchasing a rechargeable Viva Viagem card for convenient travel.
Tipping: Tipping in restaurants and cafes is customary in Portugal, typically around 5-10% of the total bill.
Safety Precautions: Exercise caution with your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas, to avoid pickpocketing. Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. In particular, be cautious around Barrio Alto at night and whenever on the 28 Tram
Language: While Portuguese is the official language, many people in Lisbon, especially in tourist areas, speak English. Learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with locals.
Cash and Cards: Carry a mix of cash (Euros) and cards for payments, as not all establishments accept credit or debit cards, especially in smaller shops or restaurants.
Time Management: Lisbon operates on a more relaxed schedule, with many shops and businesses closing for a few hours in the afternoon (siesta). Plan your activities accordingly and be mindful of opening hours.
Water: Stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months, by carrying a reusable water bottle. Tap water in Lisbon is safe to drink.
Explore Beyond the Tourist Areas: Venture off the beaten path to discover Lisbon's hidden gems, charming neighborhoods, and local eateries for a more authentic experience.
Be Respectful: Respect local customs, traditions, and cultural norms during your visit to Lisbon. Remember to dress appropriately when visiting religious sites or entering establishments.
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