The 30+ Best Things To Do in Lisbon
📅 16 May 2023 | Guides, Portugal | ⌛ 40 mins
Lisbon is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. As Portugal’s captivating capital, Lisbon has long been a favorite destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable European experience. From its charming cobbled streets to its breathtaking viewpoints, this city holds endless treasures waiting to be explored.
Thus, I have made this list of best things to do in Lisbon, so that it is easier for you the next time you travel there. I’ve divided all Lisbon sights to see as per district area, so it is easier to get acquainted with the city.
Truth is, no matter you decide to visit in Lisbon, you won’t regret it! Read on to find the best things to do in Lisbon!
Lisboa Card - Is it worth it?
Is the Lisboa Card worth it? Absolutely! You can use it for the best things to do in Lisbon!
The Lisboa Card provides you with free travel. It is good to point out that the one Lisbon card is per person. This means that you won’t have to figure out how and where to buy tickets for the metro, bus, trams, elevators or funiculars. It also gives you free travel to Sintra and Cascais, which are the most visited cities around Lisbon.
In addition to that, the Lisboa Card gives free access to 26 museums, monuments and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among them are the Belem Tower, Jeronimos monastery, the Santa Justa Elevator and the Azulejos Museum (The Tile museum).
The other benefits of getting the Lisboa Card are the free guidebook, which is quite helpful and provides valuable information for the town. The card also gives its holder lots of discounts to travel to and from Lisbon Airport with the Aerobus airport shuttle or a discount for the Fado museum.
The Lisboa Card is worth every cent! Especially if you are wondering what to do in Lisbon, it will give you lots of ideas. To get your Lisboa Card click here.
Baixa District
The Baixa district is one of the most affected areas in Lisbon from the devastating earthquake in 1755. The entire neighborhood was hit by it and it had to be rebuilt entirely by the order of the Marquis of Pombal in a Neo-Classical style.
However, Baixa is probably the most central district in Lisbon. It is also one of the liveliest and brightest neighborhoods in the city center. Baixa is for sure one of the best places to seek accommodation in Lisbon. With its perfect central location, you can be guaranteed that all landmarks will be close to you.
Some of the most well-known highlights in the area are Praça do Comércio, Arco da Rua Augusta, Rossio Square, Praça do Marquês de Pombal, Carmo Archaeological Museum and Elevador de Santa Justa.
Praça do Comércio
Praça do Comércio or as most people know it – Lisbon’s most prominent square or the “door” to Lisbon! It was built exactly where the old Royal Palace of the Portuguese Royal family was, before it was destroyed by the earthquake from 1755. For decades, Praça do Comércio was Lisbon’s main entry point and the place where its maritime trade was mostly done. Usually, that was the place where the commercial ships would unload all the goods they have gathered on their journeys.
Once you go to the plaza you will get a nice view over the Tagus river and the Rua Augusta Arch. The square is surrounded by sunny yellow buildings with arches all along and interesting facades.
One of the main highlights of the square are the Arch de Rua Augusta and the Equestrian Statue of Joseph I. This mesmerizing bronze statue of Joseph I of Portugal, who reigned from 1750 until 1777, was made by Machado de Castro in 1775. The statue was built to honor the king’s quick response and care for his people during the devastating earthquake from 1755.
Praça do Comércio is great for walking around, so you can roam around the river banks or simply get a good look at the square. If you go near the banks you will find the Cais de Sodré ferry terminal from where ferries depart from Lisbon.
Rua Augusta Arch
The famous Arch de Rua Augusta is connecting Praça do Comércio with Rua Augusta boulevard. The Rua Augusta boulevard is one of the liveliest spots in Baixa neighbourhood in Lisbon. It is surrounded by the very same beautiful yellowish buildings like the ones at Praça do Comércio.
The Rua Augusta Arch was created by Santos de Carvalho, a Portuguese architect, to celebrate the upbringing of the city after the devastating earthquake from 1755. The arch is covered with beautiful statues of Vasco da Gama, the Maquis of Pombal and some majestic animals like lions. It provides a beautiful 360º view over the old districts of Lisbon and the Tagus river. Thus, it is a good place to go to and be awed by its mesmerizing vistas!
Nowadays, Rua Augusta Arch is considered as one of the best things to do in Lisbon!
Rossio Square
If you want to be at the best restaurants in Lisbon, Praça do Rossio is the place to be! Situated in the lively Baixa neighbourhood, Praça de D. Pedro IV as the square is also known, is where many locals and tourists are going. It’s a gathering spot for everyone and you will for sure feel the vibe.
At Rossio Square you will see the Column of Pedro IV of Portugal, who was known as “the Liberator”. He was known for his favoring the liberalism and helping his people. Thus, the statue was built in 1870 as a remembrance for the late king. It’s a majestic statue of the king and a couple of female figures at its bottom representing some of his values like moderation, wisdom, strength and justice.
Quite close to the square is the National Theatre D. Maria II. It was built in 1842 over the old Estaus Palace, which was the headquarters of the Portuguese Inquisition since the 15th century. Atop of the building you can see the statue of the famous Portuguese playwright Gil Vicente.
Last but not least, if you want to try out some good coffee you can check out the Café Nicola. This art deco café is 200 years old and is one of the oldest coffee shops in Lisbon. During the nights, this café turns into a restaurant where fado performances are held, so it is not to be missed!
Rossio Railway Station
Just a couple of steps away from the square you will find Rossio Railway Station. It was built in 1887 by the Portuguese architect José Luís Monteiro. Rossio Railway Station is one of the most prominent engineering works of Portugal and is one of its most beautiful railway stations.
What makes the Rossio Railway Station such a masterpiece is its Neo-Manueline façade with its beautiful oval entrances. The clock that is atop of the building ads to its beautiful decorations and enchanting look.
If you are planning a trip to Sintra, this is the station where you can get the train to this magical city!
Praça do Marquês de Pombal
This square is considered to be the heart of “modern Lisbon”. Right in the middle of the square is the monument of the Marquis of Pombal. It was built in the 1915 as a remembrance of the Marquis of Pombal, which name is Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, who was Secretary of State of Portugal from 1750 until 1777. He is known as the person who led the country into its age of enlightenment and further development. Hence, the statue is depicting exactly that – the Marquis laying his hand on a lion, which is a showcase of power and leadership.
If you happen to go to Lisbon, it is good to consider the Baixa area for a place to stay in. It is one of the modern parts of Lisbon and well-developed. Around the Praça do Marquês de Pombal you will find some of the best hotels in Lisbon, as well as parks like Eduardo VII Park.
Elevador Santa Justa
Lisbon is a highly hilly city that necessitates a lot of climbing. That is why, in the nineteenth century, the people decided to build a lift so they could move around without much effort. This lift, known as the Santa Justa Lift, links the steepest streets in Lisbon and mainly the ones between Baixa and Bairro Alto districts.
The Santa Justa Elevator is distinguished by its iron Gothic arches with geometric motifs. It is also higher than the homes around it, so if you choose to go up, you will have a great view over the city.
Located in Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s bohemian and cultural core, this hotel offers stunning views of the Tagus River on one side and the Castelo de So Jorge on the other.
Carmo Archaeological Museum
The Carmo Archaeological Museum or as it is mostly known, Carmo Convent, is likely the only structure that survived the 18th century Lisbon earthquake. Unfortunately, it was never rebuilt and now serves as a reminder of the tragic earthquake.
The arches and pillars that indicate the scale of the monastery are the only features that remain today. Surprisingly, some monuments and a small museum remain within, demonstrating how significant the Carmo Convent was to the locals.
Museu Arqueológico do Carmo is one of the most magnificent religious sites in Lisbon (despite the fact that there isn’t much left of it)! Its beautiful architecture and gigantic proportions will undoubtedly catch your notice.
Estrela District
Estrela district is a fairly new district of Lisbon that ware created in 2012 by the Administrative Reform of Lisbon. It is formed by the old parishes of Lapa, Santos-o-Velho and Prazeres.
It is home to the Portuguese Parliament, Estrela Basilica, Museu do Oriente, National Museum of Ancient Art and many more. Estrela is for sure one of the most central and important districts of Lisbon as it is also home to many embassies like the ones of Canada, Indonesia, Malta, Bulgaria, Sweden and Switzerland.
Basílica da Estrela
Basilica da Estrela is one of the most beautiful basilicas in Lisbon, if not Portugal and one of the best things to do in Lisbon. This mesmerizing basilica was built in honor of Queen Maria I’s first son birth. However, just before the basilica was finished, Jose, Maria’s son has died of smallpox, which proved this religious offering insufficient. Later, the Queen has been buried in the basilica, as a form of honor.
The basilica is famous for its beautiful white facades in Neoclassical architectural style and intriguing geometric marble patterns. Inside of the basilica you will find a nativity scene with 500 figures, which are carved from cork. That is quite fascinating!
National Museum of Ancient Art
The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga is home to more than 40,000 items, dating back to the 12th century. The museum holds grandiose collections of paintings, sculpture, gold ware, furniture, ceramics and textiles. Most of the collections have been gathered from Europe, Africa, the Orient and Portugal, and were classified as “national treasures”.
Some of the most prominent treasures include the Panels of Saint Vicent, Belem Monstrance, paintings by Raphael and Piero della Francesca.
The museum holds in itself a huge garden you can enjoy, as well as a nice restaurant overlooking the Tagus river.
Museu do Oriente
The Museu do Oriente, a testimony to the historical links between Asia and Portugal. Portugal is the first country to reach the most distant eastern ports and this makes it a quite important country.
Museu do Oriente is located on the Doca de Alcântara, in a 1940s old structure near Tagus River. The museum has two major permanent exhibits. The exhibition “Portuguese Presence in Asia” is on the first level and comprises of artistic artifacts and documentation accumulated over the years by Fundaço Oriente. Among numerous notable things are Chinese and Japanese screens from the 17th and 18th centuries, Namban art, a collection of porcelain pieces embossed with the Companhia das Indias, and a collection connected to the cultures of the Timor peoples.
The “Gods of Asia” exhibition, takes up the whole second floor, was inspired by the Kwok On Collection, one of the most important of its sort on a European scale, with over 13,000 items. Puppets, masks, paintings, ritual artifacts, lanterns, dragons, games, and sculptures are used as testimony of performing arts, mythologies, and popular Asian religions throughout the exhibition path.
The Museu do Oriente also contains a temporary exhibition area and a multifunctional room that hosts a diverse cultural program, including musical performances, dance performances, theater, film, and puppetry.
Santo António District
Santo Antonio is one of the new and modern neighbourhoods in Lisbon. It holds in itself all the new business buildings and the fanciest hotels that you can think of. It is right above the Baixa district and is considered to be one of the most well-organized districts in the city.
Some of its most famous landmarks are the Avenida da Liberdade, Marquis of Pombal Square and Eduardo VII Park.
Praça do Marquês de Pombal
This square is considered to be the heart of “modern Lisbon”. Right in the middle of the square is the monument of the Marquis of Pombal. It was built in the 1915 as a remembrance of the Marquis of Pombal, which name is Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, who was Secretary of State of Portugal from 1750 until 1777. He is known as the person who led the country into its age of enlightenment and further development. Hence, the statue is depicting exactly that – the Marquis laying his hand on a lion, which is a showcase of power and leadership.
If you happen to go to Lisbon, it is good to consider the Baixa area for a place to stay in. It is one of the modern parts of Lisbon and well-developed. Around the Praça do Marquês de Pombal you will find some of the best hotels in Lisbon, as well as parks like Eduardo VII Park.
Eduardo VII Park
If you are into parks, you should definitely visit Parque Eduardo VII. It is one of the must-see in Lisbon for sure!
The park is quite huge to begin with and is located right above the Praça do Marquês de Pombal and Avenida da Liberdade in the very heart of Lisbon. Back in the days, the park was called Parque da Liberdade, or the Liberty Park. However, the visit of King Edward VII of the United Kingdom in 1903 has changed everything. The king was coming to Portugal to strengthen the relations between the two countries, hence the Portuguese decided to show their appreciation.
The park is famous for being “home” to the biggest Portuguese flag, it is also hosting the annual Lisbon Book Fair. On top of that, it has a top tier greenhouse, known as Estufa Fria, housed within the park, which has 3 distinct gardens, so make sure to visit it!
This hotel is located in Principe Real, one of Lisbon’s most affluent and charming neighborhoods. Bairro Alto and Avenida da Liberdade are both within a 10-minute walk of the hotel, making it a great location for exploring old Lisbon. Memmo Principe Real has an outdoor pool and lounge with views of the city. Café Principe Real Restaurant honors its Lusophony heritage with Portuguese and cosmopolitan recipes influenced by Brazilian, African, and Asian elements. The restaurant is centrally placed, trendy, and cozy, with a patio overlooking the pool and the city.
Lisbon Zoo
Lisbon Zoo is probably among one of the best things to do in Lisbon. It has been founded in 1884 and ever since has been home to more than 2000 animals and 350 different species.
If you decide to go to Lisbon’s Zoo you can expect to see elephants, crocodiles, giraffes, lions, tigers, hippos and many more. There are many things you can do at the zoo like live shows and hopping on a train around the zoo. So, if you or your little ones are in for adventure – make sure to check out Lisbon’s Zoo!
Aqueduto das Águas Livres
The Aguas Livres Aqueduct was built in the 17th century, during the reign of King João V to supply the city of Lisbon with water. It’s an impressive engineering work that overlooks the Alcantara Valley and is 14 kilometers long. Along these 14 kilometers there are 35 arched supporting the aqueduct.
Nowadays, the aqueduct is only a museum, as it was deactivated in 1973. The Museum of Water is going through a group of buildings that tell the story of the aqueduct. It is definitely not the museum you would expect, so if you are in for something different, go try it!
Belém District
Back in the days, Belem was a sailor’s village, which was providing Lisbon with many goods. In the 16th century, Belem became the main point for the explorers who were departing on their journeys. From here, many explorers embarked on their famous journeys to Africa, Brazil and India. Later, these same explorers would dock their ships and bring out all of the goods into Lisbon, which made Portugal quite rich.
Nowadays, Belem is one of the most beautiful districts of Lisbon sitting right at the Tejo Estuary. Althought, it might be quite aside from the city center of Lisbon, it is perfect for a day trip in the city.
It is home to many of the top Lisbon attractions, which make most of the visitors to keep visiting Lisbon. Thus, if you are wondering what to do in Lisbon for a day, you can consider visiting Belem district…
Jerónimos Monastery
The Jeronimos monastery is among one of the best things to do in Lisbon! It is for sure one of the best places to visit in Lisbon, which will leave you stunned.
This religious building was contructued by Diogo de Boitaca, a Portuguese architect, as a remembrance to Vasco da Gama and his return from India.
Back in the days, the monastery was built over an old religious building belonging to the Order of Saint Jerome, which makes the monastery date back to the 1469. Later in time, it’s construction began in the 1501 and was completed only 100 years later. The main architectural styles of the monastery are Manueline and Gothic, which makes it quite interesting to look at. It draws the attention of all the visitors coming to Lisbon and is also complementing the other famous landmarks like Belem tower and the Monument of the Discoveries that are situated nearby.
The monastery became the necropolis of the Portuguese royal dynasty of Aviz, and was used by many of the explorers of that time as a place to rest before they embark on their adventures. As the story goes, the night before Vasco da Gama embarked on his voyage to India, he stayed at Jerónimos Monastery to pray. Nowadays, his tomb can be found at the entrance of the monastery.
Since 1983, Jerónimos Monastery is classified as one of Portugal’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Make sure to visit the monastery on your visit to Lisbon next time. It is for sure a must see in Lisbon and the Belem district.
National Archaeology Museum
If you are a history fan you will for sure love the Museu Nacional de Arqueologia. It’s exactly next to the Jeronimos Monastery, so it is quite easy to find it.
The National Archaeology Museum in Lisbon has been founded in 1893 by the prominent archaeologist José Leite de Vasconcelos. It is home to some of the most exquisite collections of artifacts dating back to the Paleolithic Ages.
Some of the highlights of the museum include the Egyptian and Islamic rooms. If you have never been to Egypt you will have a chance of feeling the energy of the ancient Egyptians in this hall. There are some mummies of people and animals you can observe as well as lots of stones and jewelry.
Pastéis de Belém Bakery
The Pastéis de Belém bakery in Lisbon’s famed Belem area is one of the city’s top attractions. It is famed for its exquisite egg tarts with crispy crusts that melt in your mouth. I know. You want to test them out and see what all the fuss is about.
However, the Pastéis de Belém bakery has a large number of tourists each day, and it can be difficult to get inside at times. That’s understandable given that this is the bakery where the famed sweets were born. Nevertheless, you can find them almost anywhere in Lisbon. If you can’t catch a whiff here, go to the Manteigaria Fábrica de Pastéis de Nata, one of the best bakeries in Lisbon!
Belém Tower
The Belém Tower is the city’s emblem and one of the most recognizable monuments in the Belém area. You can see it on almost every postcard or souvenir in the city. It is for sure among the top 10 things to do in Lisbon!
That is hardly surprising given its historical significance for the city. Belém Tower was a defense tower that guarded the city against maritime invasions. It was also the starting point for most of the famous explorers’ trips. Belém’s tower is noteworthy for its stunning façade, and, like the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, is a classified UNESCO World Heritage Site.
These days, Belem Tower attracts many visitors all the time and the lines are usually huge. Sometimes, people wait for hours to get in. That’s no surprise as it offers a one of a kind view over the Tagus river and the surrounding area. Make sure to save your spot and skip the line!
National Coach Museum
If you are wondering what to see in Lisbon, I suggest you try out the National Coach Museum! It’s not the regular type of museum you would expect and that is why it is definitely worth the visit!
Museu Nacional dos Coches had one of the most fascinating collections of horse-drawn carriages dating back to the 17th, 18th and 19th century. Some of the most notable carriages are those that belonged to Philip II of Spain who reigned from 1581 until 1598. They are also one of the oldest in the collection of the museum. Another notable horse-drawn carriages that are worth to take a look at are those of Pope Clement XI. All of them were made in Italy in 1715 in Baroque style and are pretty fascinating to look at. However, one of these coaches is truly stunning and catches the eye – the one of John V of Portugal.
Within the museum you will also find valuable paintings and items from the same period. Thus, the visit to the National Coach Museum is definitely worth a visit!
Monument to the Discoveries
The Monument of the Discoveries is another attraction on this list of top things to do in Lisbon that deserves your attention.
Padrao dos Descobrimentos was constructed in the early twentieth century in honor of the famous Portuguese explorers. What’s fascinating is the global map that stands just in front of the monument. It depicts all discoveries of the explorers together with the year they were discovered. The easiest way to see the map is to go inside the monument and look at it from above.
At the summit of the monument, 52 meters higher, you will get the best view of the globe map and the rest of Belem’s districts landmarks. The Jerónimos Monastery stands in front of the monument, with the Belém Tower on the left and the 25 de Abril bridge on the right.
The view from above is truly breathtaking!
25 de Abril Bridge
The longest suspension bridge in Europe! That’s the 25th April Bridge in Lisbon, which is one of the best things to see in Lisbon.
The building of the bridge took almost 4 years and once it was finished in 1966, it was named Salazar Bridge after António de Oliveira Salazar, who was the current dictator of Portugal. However, after the Carnation Revolution, which overturned the regime of Salazar, the bridge was given the name of the date the revolution happened on.
The bridge has two levels where the top level is for cars and the lower one is for trains. There’s no way for people to cross it, as it is not safe.
What’s interesting about the bridge is that is resembles the one in San Francisco and that is no coincidence. The company that has built the bridge of San Francisco is also responsible for building the 25th of April Bridge in Lisbon.
The best places to spot the bridge is definitely the Padrao dos Descobrimentos and the Belem tower.
MAAT
The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology is part of the best thing to do in Lisbon list if you are into art. It is usually a fantastic place for me to end my tour around Lisbon. Furthermore, it is an excellent location for photographing the Portuguese Golden Gate (25 de Abril Bridge).
Oh, and you may climb to the top of the museum to admire the stunning art works or the sunset…
Ajuda District
Ajuda, located between modern Alcântara and the touristic Belém, is a historic, working-class neighborhood that tourists often overlook. Ajuda is not the typical touristy place like the rest of Lisbon’s neighbourhood. It is also not very good in terms of transportation options and accommodation.
However, Ajuda gives the opportunity to live in a normal Portuguese neighborhood. It does not seem to provide some special restaurants or shops as the rest of the districts, but it is a nice and peaceful neighbourhood.
Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
This palace was built in the beginning of the 19th century. Later it became a residence for the Portuguese Royal family when Luis I married Maria Pia of Savoy.
It is a Lisbon must do, as the collections it holds are definitely worth a visit. Within the palace you will find lots of decorative art, paintings, sculptures and tapestries that were typical for the period.
It was not a long period that the palace was used, due to Portugal being proclaimed a republic and the castle was closed in 1910. It was opened again to the public in 1968 and has been working as a museum ever since.
Monsanto
Parque Florestal Monsanto is a large urban forest in the west side of Lisbon. It provides a huge open air area where you can enjoy a peaceful time away from the city’s buzz.
Some of the places that you can visit are the Estrada da Bela Vista, which leads to some great vistas over Lisbon. Then, you can check out the picnic area of Parque Recreativo do Alto da Serafina or the Alvito Park. If you want a more peaceful part of the park, go to the Montes Claros gardens, which also have a lake with ducks. It is for sure one of the best things to do in Lisbon!
Palace of the Marquises of Fronteira
The Palácio de Fronteira, is close to one of the city’s lungs, Monsanto, and is worth a visit.
Its baroque gardens with fountains, lakes, and sculptures, as well as its distinctive and well-preserved collection of rocaille decorations and 17th century azulejo tiles, will captivate you.
The palace itself, built in the Mannerism style and decorated in the Baroque style, fully exemplifies the 17th-century palatial style.
You may examine outstanding artworks and discover more about the marquises of Fronteira at the Sala dos Painéis Holandeses (Dutch Panel Room), the museum of Liberal Arts, and the Sala das Batalhas (Battle Room).
Alfama District
Alfama is the oldest and most charming district of Lisbon. Once in Alfama, you will feel the vibe of Lisbon for sure!
Back in the days, Alfama was located right outside of Sao Jorge Castle and was the home of the Portuguese villagers. However, with time, it became the area where all the fishermen and sailors were living. Nowadays, Alfama brings joy to the eye and the heart. It’s like the neighbourhood is breathing and giving you positive vibes. And if you happen to visit one of its numerous vistas, you will fall in love with Lisbon for sure!
São Jorge Castle
If you enjoy history, you will for sure enjoy the trip inside the So Jorge Castle, which is a must do in Lisbon.
The castle has been standing on one of the highest peaks in the Alfama district since Roman times. The castle has passed the test of time, seeing many historical eras. It existed from the time the Romans ruled over these areas until the collapse of the Roman Empire.
The Visigoths then arrived to the regions and gained dominance, which the Moors eventually took away. The Sao Jorge Castle has seen some of Portugal’s most significant historical events during the previous two centuries. As a result, the castle is one of the most historically significant buildings in Lisbon and Portugal as a whole.
While inside the castle, you may take a walk around its defensive walls and take in the views of Alfama. It has 11 defensive towers, which will give you a glimpse in the life of the garrison. In addition, you will be able to see its historic museum. There, you will be able to feel the authentic history of Portugal.
Lisbon Cathedral
Sé de Lisboa is among the most prominent buildings in Lisbon and one of great importance. The cathedral dates back to the 12th century and has been reconstructed a couple of times due to the earthquakes that hit the city during the ages.
The dominating architectural style of the cathedral is Romanesque, even though other architectural styles can be spotted on the cathedral. The cathedral is made out of thick walls, along which two bell towers can be found. From the inside, the cathedral holds a temple, decorative facades, a fountain and a 14th century Gothic chapel. If you decide to visit its cloister you will be able to see some evidence of the Roman and Arab presence in the city. This has tremendously changed the history of Lisbon and Portugal as a whole, so go check it out!
The Lisbon cathedral is known for its withstanding power, as it has lived through some of the worst natural disasters that hit the city. After the Great Earthquake, the cathedral had to be renovated majorly. However, until this very day, it is standing tall.
It’s good to mention that tram 28 passes right through the Sé de Lisboa and you can observe its exterior from the tram!
The 5-star Santiago de Alfama – Boutique Hotel is located in Lisbon’s historic center, just an 8-minute walk from the famed So Jorge Castle, and provides magnificent city views. This beautiful hotel is around 500 meters from Pombaline Downtown.
The on-site á la carte restaurant serves a wide cuisine, and the bar is a great spot to unwind after a day of visiting Lisbon. A continental breakfast is included in the room.
Fado Museum
The Museu do Fado is a must-see attraction in Lisbon and among one of the best things to do in Lisbon. It not only represents one of the region’s most significant cultural legacies, but it also features a café and a themed shop where you can spend some time catching the spirit of saudade (nostalgia).
It is entirely dedicated to fado and the guitar, with permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as a file center and an auditorium with regular events and a quite interesting program.
The museum’s creative brilliance will astound you, with songs by the greatest Portuguese musicians displaying an art style that Portugal contributed to the world.
The restaurant provides traditional Portuguese cuisine and contributes to the authentic feel of your stay.
The National Tile Museum
The Museu Nacional do Azulejo is one of the most important national museums of Portugal. It is also one of the best things in Lisbon to visit and will leave you speechless for sure.
The uniqueness of its collection, Azulejo (tile), is an artistic expression that distinguishes Portuguese culture from the rest. Its collections take you on a tour through the history of tile, from the 15th century to the present.
The museum is in the building of the former Madre de Deus Convent, founded in 1509 by Queen D. Leonor. The Madre de Deus church, which belongs to the convent, is designed in full Portuguese baroque grandeur, with gilded and carved wood, paintings, and tile panels. It is for sure a church you have to visit, as it is simply astonishing to look at its golden walls covered in tiles.
Parque das Nações District
Parque das Nações is the modern and new side of Lisbon. It is quite different as a neighbourhood and to be quite honest, it will amaze you with its architecture. It’s like you are in a different city.
The district of Parque das Nações is on the north-eastern side of the Tejo Eastuary and was renovated in 1998. Nowadays, the Parque das Nações is known for its futuristic architecture and urban art that attracts many…
Vasco da Gama Bridge
Lisbon is quite known for its majestic bridges. The Vasco da Gama bridge is yet another example of the great engineering masterpieces this city holds. It was built in 1988 for the Lisbon World Exposition and is providing a 12 kilometers link between the north and south of Portugal. The bridge was named after the Portuguese explores, Vasco da Gama and is a symbol of remembrance of his arrival from India in 1498.
Nowadays, the bridge is helping with the traffic in the city and is one of the places where you can simply enjoy the view.
Lisbon Oceanarium
Oceanário de Lisboa is a Lisbon must see for sure! It guarantees to bring out the child in you! To be quite honest with you… it is one of the best things to do in Lisbon!
This magnificent Oceanarium is home to many marine species coming from all over the globe. You will be able to see all types of fishes, jelly fishes, sharks, manta rays, penguins, sea lions and many more. The Oceanarium is divided in two floors both of which are rotating around a huge aquarium that is home to lots of marine species living inside of it.
Usually, it houses art installations related to the marine life, but they often change, so you might want to prepare yourself upfront by researching this.
Telecabine Lisbon
If you wish to take a ride in the air with the Telecabine (Cable vehicle) in Lisbon, you should go to Parque das Nacoes (Nations Park). The Vasco da Gama shopping mall is located there, and if you go through it, you will reach the Tagus River, where you will notice the Cable Cars running back and forth.
The cable car was completed in 1998 and spans 1.2 kilometers. A maximum of eight passengers can sit in one carrier, however it is usually feasible to travel with just two people.
The Oceanarium (Passeio de Neptuno) and the Old Vasco da Gama tower (Passeio das Tágides) serve as the starting points for the Cable Car. During the trip, you will get a great view of the Tagus River and the Vasco da Gama Bridge.
Pavilhão do Conhecimento
Pavilhão do Conhecimento is an interactive science museum built right at the banks of Tagus river in the Parque das Nações. It is built to promote scientific culture in the people and consists of an interactive museums of Science as well as Technology.
The museum hosts various exhibitions related to different aspects of the world but mainly Physics, Mathematics and Technology. Thus, if you are into learning something new and extraordinary, make sure to visit it!
Centro Vasco da Gama
If you are wondering where to go shopping in Lisbon, Centro Vasco da Gama is your place! You’ll find all types of shops to spend some cash. Additionally, you can find plenty of restaurants that you can eat in and enjoy the beautiful view of Tagus river.
This is for sure one of the activities in Lisbon you should not miss!
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I hope that you have found this post about the best things to do in Lisbon useful. Do you plan to visit any of the suggested places this season?
Which one is first on your list?
