Things to do in Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is renowned for its unique blend of traditional heritage and contemporary culture. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Lisbon offers visitors a charming mix of historic neighborhoods, picturesque hills, and a lively arts scene.The city is famous for its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and iconic yellow trams. Visitors can explore ancient castles, beautiful plazas, and enjoy panoramic views from various miradouros (viewpoints). Lisbon's culinary scene, vibrant nightlife, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination in Europe.

Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Belém Tower is an iconic symbol of Lisbon's Age of Discoveries. Built in the early 16th century, this fortress once guarded the entrance to the city's harbor and now offers visitors stunning views of the Tagus River.

The tower's Manueline architectural style features intricate stonework and maritime motifs, making it a must-see landmark for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)

Another UNESCO World Heritage site, this monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. It was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama's voyage to India and serves as a symbol of Portugal's maritime history.

Visitors can explore the ornate cloisters, the church, and the tombs of famous Portuguese explorers, including Vasco da Gama himself.

São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge)

Perched atop one of Lisbon's highest hills, São Jorge Castle offers panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. The castle dates back to the Moorish period and has played a significant role in Lisbon's history.

Visitors can walk along the castle walls, explore the archaeological site, and enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the fortress.

Alfama District

The oldest district in Lisbon, Alfama is known for its narrow, winding streets, traditional Fado music houses, and historic charm. It survived the 1755 earthquake relatively intact, preserving much of its original character.

Exploring Alfama offers a glimpse into Lisbon's past with its quaint shops, local eateries, and stunning viewpoints like Miradouro de Santa Luzia.

Lisbon Oceanarium (Oceanário de Lisboa)

One of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe, the Lisbon Oceanarium showcases marine life from different ocean habitats. It is particularly famous for its central tank, which houses a variety of species including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

The Oceanarium is both educational and entertaining, making it a great attraction for families and marine enthusiasts.

Praça do Comércio

This grand riverside square is one of Lisbon's most iconic public spaces. Surrounded by classical 18th-century buildings, it opens onto the Tagus River and features the impressive Arco da Rua Augusta.

Praça do Comércio is a hub of activity with cafes, street performers, and access to ferry services, making it a lively spot for visitors.

Bairro Alto

Known for its vibrant nightlife, Bairro Alto is a lively neighborhood filled with bars, restaurants, and clubs. During the day, it offers charming streets lined with colorful houses and boutique shops.

At night, the area comes alive with music and social gatherings, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

This museum is dedicated to the art of Portuguese tiles, known as azulejos. It showcases a vast collection of tiles from the 15th century to contemporary works, illustrating their role in Portuguese culture and architecture.

The museum is housed in a former convent and includes beautiful tile panels, decorative arts, and historical exhibits.

Elevador de Santa Justa

This unique elevator connects the lower streets of Baixa with the higher Largo do Carmo. Built in the early 20th century, it features a striking neo-Gothic design and offers panoramic views of Lisbon from its observation deck.

It is both a practical means of transportation and a popular tourist attraction.

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

This museum houses an impressive collection of art ranging from ancient to modern times, including European paintings, Islamic art, and decorative arts. It was founded by the Armenian oil magnate Calouste Gulbenkian.

The museum is set in beautiful gardens, providing a peaceful environment for art lovers to explore.