Free things to do in Lisbon

Free things to do in Lisbon

If you are looking to visit Lisbon but have no idea where to start and looking for budget-friendly options, then this is the guide for you. I have also included some hostel recommendations if you don't know where to start. Make sure to subscribe if you want to be the first to know when new guides and itineries are released.
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Lisbon
@postcardsfromrachael
Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city. From imposing São Jorge Castle, the view encompasses the old city’s pastel-colored buildings, Tagus Estuary and Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge.
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I visited Lisbon in May 2023 as an early birthday trip and fell in love with the city. I cannot wait to visit Portugal again. 

Admire the stunning view of the city at Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Miradouro de Santa Luzia
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This popular observation deck with a pergola offers dramatic views of Lisbon & the Tagus River.
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This is literally my favourite spot to watch the sunset and sunrise. If you want to actually see the view and maybe even get this spot to yourself then I recommend that you visit at sunrise. Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Miradouro das Portas do Sol
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Scenic viewpoint with panoramic city views of traditional Alfama houses with red roofs & churches.
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Another beautiful spot to watch the sunset but also gets quite busy. 

Where to stay in Lisbon

Inn Possible Lisbon Hostel
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Set on a narrow hillside close to bars and eateries, this down-to-earth hostel is a 6-minute walk from both a metro station and the Elevador de Santa Justa, an imposing, ornate 1902 wrought-iron elevator.
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We Hate F Tourists - Hostel
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Set on a residential street, this laid-back hostel is 3 km from the São Jorge Castle and 9 km from the Belém Tower. Intendente metro station is a 5-minute walk away.
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We Love F Tourists - Hostel
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An 8-minute walk from the lively Praça do Comércio plaza, this informal hostel among shops and eateries on a bustling commercial street is also 4 minutes' walk from the nearest metro station.
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Get lost in the beautiful streets in the Alfama area

Alfama
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The steep streets of Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest areas, are lined with shops selling traditional crafts and cafes. Passengers pack the historic no. 28 tram, which winds through Alfama on its way up to 11th-century São Jorge Castle.
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A beautiful area in the city of Lisbon with charming streets. The steep streets of Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest areas, are lined with shops selling traditional crafts and cafes.

Snap photos in front of Arco da Rua Augusta

Arco da Rua Augusta
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Ornate 18th-century triumphal arch with sculpted figures & views over the city center.
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You can admire this beautiful arch from the outside but you can also pay to climb up to the top where you get an amazing view over the rooftops of the city. I had no idea you could do this until I bought the Lisbon card and it said entry to the arch was included. 

Enjoy buskers at Praça do Comércio

Praça do Comércio
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Waterside public plaza with a notable arch & statue, lined with outdoor cafes & shopping venues.
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There are often buskers performing around this sqaure which creates a really lovely atmosphere with live music. There are also lots of resturants lining the square, but best to walk a few streets away is you want cheaper and more authetic food. 

Admire the Rose Compass and Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Rose Compass
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The compass rose shows the map of the world and the most important routes, as well as the respective years in which the Portuguese made their discoveries during the 15th and 16th centuries.
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Padrão dos Descobrimentos
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Statue built in 1940 and made permanent in 1960 to mark 500 years since Henry the Navigator's death.
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You can admire the Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument from the outside for free. Or you can pay to visit the viewpoint which is £8.60. 

Stroll along the beach outside Belém Tower

Belém Tower
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Landmark medieval fortified tower on tiny river island with rooftop terrace offering estuary views.
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Outside of the Belém Tower there is a small beach area which you can admire the tower from. You can also relax in the Jardim da Torre de Belém which is just opposite the tower. 

Take in the views from the Santa Justa Lift

Santa Justa Lift
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You don't have to pay to go up the lift to get the beautiful views. You can just walk around a few streets and you come out at the top of the Santa Justa lift. 

More free Europe guides 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
My name is Rachael and I am a travel content creator based in the UK local to the beautiful Cotswolds. I first found my love for travel when I visited South Africa to volunteer for a month back in 2018. Since then I have visited numerous counties on a budget and spent 2 months travelling around Italy in 2022. I have put together extensive travel guides and itineraries from my travels around Europe to help make your next trip an unforgettable experience.
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