There is so much to do in Lisbon, these 17 tips and ideas are just a starting point so that you can create your adventure and don’t miss all the high points along the way!
I love love love Lisbon!
If I could pack up and move to Lisbon right now, I would. The people are so friendly, the city is easy to get around, and food and drink are incredibly affordable.
The city is rich in culture and history. The people pride themselves on the rebuilding of the city after the Earthquake of 1755. Each neighborhood is unique; the food flavors are diverse, and there is an overall warmness about Lisbon.
How to Get Around
If arriving by air you will fly into Lisbon’s only airport. The airport is located 10.3 kilometers outside of the city center. The airport is quite large and easy to get around and signs are in Portuguese and English.
Taxis will be located outside of the terminals to take you to the city center. The metro is super easy and reliable to use. The airport has its station (Aeroporto) and you can buy metro cards at the airport. A one-way ride is €1.80, or unlimited one-day passes are €6.80 (as of 2024). You can see the current prices HERE.
While you are in the city, you can opt to take the metro, trams, taxis, or Uber. I found the metro to be the least expensive. There will be occasions when you may need to use Uber to get to places located a little farther from the metro station.
Lisbon Accommodation Options:
- Hostel (Private Room Options): San Jordi Hostels Lisbon
- Mid-Level Hotel: Hotel do Chiado
- High-End Hotel: Pousada de Lisboa – Small Luxury Hotels Of The World
Where to Stay in Lisbon
In 2018 I stayed at a hostel that I booked through Hostel World that has since closed (Travellers Hostel) and in 2023 I stayed at the San Jordi Hostel. Both were great, I would suggest staying in the central area so you can quickly walk to the metro stations and tour meet-ups.
The restaurants can be pricey in that area, but you can’t beat the location. You will only be steps away from the Alfama, Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Rossio neighborhoods.
Below is a picture from my first night at the hostel. For just a few euros I met new friends, enjoyed freshly cooked blood sausage, and had unlimited free sangria.
Costs in Lisbon
Lisbon is very affordable for a Western European city. Check Booking.com for the prices as each season has a different cost. I visited in May and hostels were $10 – $15 a night per person. Hotels were $100 – $175 a night and Airbnb’s were $70 – $80 a night.
Food is inexpensive. Breakfast is $2 – $5, Lunch is $8 – $10 and dinner is $15 – $20 per person. The further away you are from the tourist districts, the food becomes less expensive, just like any other city.
What to do in Lisbon
Take a Walking Tour or Get Lost Within the Cobble Stone Streets
Ask your host/hotel for walking tour recommendations if you want to learn about the history of Lisbon. You will also get an idea of which neighborhoods you want to take more time to explore.
I use Get Your Guide often when I am in a new city. The rates can be a little higher than booking through a tour company directly but I like that you can read the reviews before choosing your adventure for the day.
Or you can easily walk around without a guide and get lost in the winding streets on your own. On my walking tour, we discovered a cool café that only serves cereal and has napping beds!
Take an Evening Stroll through Comercio Square to the Waterfront
Great picture spot and people-watching. The square is surrounded by restaurants and becomes lively at nighttime.
Ride the #28 tram
Your overnight accommodations can tell you where the closest place to catch the tram is located. Ride the line from one end to another. The tram is €3.10 one way, cash to be paid to the driver. The driver gives change but to speed things along try to have exact.
The only challenge is that the tram gets very crowded. Be prepared to be crammed inside a wooden tram armpit to armpit with other tourists if you visit during a busy time.
Visit Castelo de Sao Jorge
This is a Moorish castle located within the hilltops of Lisbon. The tram and Uber can only get you so close, so be prepared with walking shoes to make it up the very winding and steep hilly streets. It costs €8.50 per ticket to tour the castle grounds on foot.
Ride an Elevator to See the Skyline
There are a few public elevators located on hillsides that you can pay €3 – €5 to ride to the top to take pictures. If you happen to be going to Castelo de Sao Jorge however, you will see the same views from the castle that you will see from the elevator.
Pro Tip for Wifi:
To stay connected to the internet while traveling, I use an E-sim called Airalo. You can purchase the e-sim at any time, as long as your phone is E-sim compatible.
Belem Tower
Belem is located 45 minutes east of Lisbon via tram and metro. I didn’t make it here on the last visit as I spent 3 days in the Algarve Region instead. We heard from fellow tourists that it will take a few hours to tour the grounds, and of course, don’t forget to eat some pastries at Pastel de Belem. This post HERE by The Yums goes into amazing detail about this bakery.
Party on the Pink Street
This street comes to life after dark. Pink Street has bars, restaurants, and clubs. We were too busy having a fun time to take a nightlife picture! Whoops!
Listen to Fado Music
There are multiple bars, lounges, and clubs that will play Fado Music. Clube De Fado is a popular place to check it out. The music itself is kind of depressing, but it’s something you want to hear when in Lisbon.
Take a Night Tour of the Alfama district
Check out the night tours on Get Your Guide. They are all similar, some have drinks included, others do not. They will tell you all about the history of the Alfama district, and the famous Earthquake of 1755, and take you to listen to Fado music at a local restaurant.
Take a Day Trip to Sintra
This romantic city is located a short train ride away from Lisbon. I have an entire post dedicated to Sintra, CLICK HERE to read all about it.
Pro Tip for Europe Train Travel:
In most European cities, you need to validate your bus and train ticket BEFORE you ride. You will find small boxes (they vary in color and size) either before you enter the train platform or inside the bus. Put the ticket inside of the machine and it will stamp it with a time.
What and Where to Eat in Lisbon
Eat a Ton of Pastries in Lisbon
Most of the pastries you will see in Lisbon are made of the same ingredients (flour, egg yolks, milk, and sugar), but displayed in different shapes and sizes. I ate a LOT of pastries in Lisbon and the only place I went back to twice and again in 2023, since it was so delicious was Pastelaria Alcoa.
Of course, you can’t miss having a Pastel de Nata. I suggest Pastelaria Alcoa for the best.
Mini Bar in Lisbon
Mini Bar is a restaurant owned by Michelin Star Chef Jose Avillez, who is a world-renowned chef with a passion for food science. It is “expensive” for Lisbon (our meal with drinks was €100 for two people) but you get what you pay for. It was hands down my favorite meal in Lisbon. You must also make a reservation in advance.
Jardim Das Cerejas
Don’t forget to eat your veggies while visiting Lisbon! This vegetarian restaurant was one of the best places I ate at for lunch. It is buffet style (don’t let that deter you), cheap and delicious. It costs €8 per person and is unlimited refills on food.
Time Out Market Lisbon
This busy marketplace is where you can take your pick of a plethora of Portuguese dishes and eat at communal tables. It can get very crowded so if you go with someone, have that person save seats while you pick out your food, then switch places.
You don’t want to order a Portuguese steak and then have to eat it on your lap. I felt it was overpriced for Lisbon, but you can try several dishes without having to wander the city aimlessly.
Drink Ginja
Ginja is a cherry liquor that you shoot in a small shot glass, or out of a tiny cup made out of chocolate. The #1 recommended place to drink it is Ginja Espinhera. A stronger version is also sold at a tiny spot called Ginjinha Carmo.
Gelato Therapy
Fresh, homemade, and super cheap, this treat from Gelato Therapy is divine. You may even get lucky and meet the owner who loves what he does and will tell you all about it. I went both in 2018 and 2023!
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Final Thoughts on Lisbon
Lisbon is the perfect mix of old-world charm, vibrant culture, and affordable travel fun. Whether you’re strolling through Alfama’s winding streets, savoring pastéis de nata, or partying on Pink Street, there’s truly something here for everyone.
Take your time exploring, embrace the city’s laid-back vibe, and don’t forget to ride the #28 tram—even if it’s crowded. Lisbon has a way of capturing hearts, and I promise, it’ll leave you wanting more. So pack your walking shoes and get ready to fall in love!
Tips for Visting Lisbon
What’s the best time to visit Lisbon?
Spring and fall offer great weather and fewer crowds.
Is public transportation in Lisbon reliable?
Yes, the trams, metro, and buses are efficient and easy to use.
Do I need to tip in Lisbon?
Tipping isn’t mandatory, but 5-10% is appreciated for good service.
What are Lisbon’s must-try foods?
Don’t miss pastéis de nata, bacalhau, and bifana sandwiches.
Is Lisbon walkable?
Yes, but prepare for hills and cobblestone streets.
How much time should I spend in Lisbon?
Three to four days is ideal for exploring the highlights.
What’s the best way to get around Lisbon?
The iconic trams, metro, and walking are the best options.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes, but carry cash for smaller cafes and shops.
Is English spoken in Lisbon?
Yes, many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
What’s a must-see day trip from Lisbon?
Sintra, with its stunning palaces and landscapes, is a top pick.
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