We've been to Lisbon twice now and have spent almost two weeks there during those trips. It's one of our favourite cities in Europe and we know that it's somewhere we'll continue to return to time and time again. This guide includes our favourite spots. What to pack. What to expect from the city. Where to eat and where to drink. Plus a few other tips on travelling around the city and what to avoid whilst you're there.
Sitting just below the middle of Portugal’s stunning coastline, lies Lisbon: the Capital of this unique and awe-inspiring country. Lisbon is incredibly special in so many ways, but our favourite thing about this city is how it captures so many snippets of other cultures and has infused them with its own.Lisbon lies almost in the middle of Portugal and is blessed with some of the best weather in all of Europe.
It can, however, get pretty hot during the summer months. If you’re looking for some sunshine but also want to avoid the 35 degree heat, I’d highly recommend visiting in Spring or Autumn (March - May / September - October). Lisbon has an intense amount of history and culture and whilst I’m going to divulge as many recommendations as possible,
I’d also always recommend doing a little of your own research into your destination, to be sure you don’t miss out on something specific that would really interest you (If time is short, we're here to research any destination for you).*Pro Tip: be sure to take comfy walking shoes for the infamous steep streets.
In the upcoming pages, you’re going to find all of my top recommendations of things to see and do in Lisbon. I’ll suggest rough time estimates for each location and organise everything into specific areas and routes. Everything within this guide is designed to help you maximise your Lisbon experience. However, please remember that we’re all unique, and whilst this guide might perfectly suit some, you might want to skip some things or add in something according to your preferences.I’ll also provide some extra tips on navigation the city and saving some euros along the way.
What's the weather like in Lisbon?
The climate in Lisbon ranges from mild winters to hot summers, with average summer temperatures reaching the mid thirties (celsius). However, as with any destination, the weather can be very unpredictable. The following details provide a rough estimate of the temperatures you might experience during your own trip.
Jan - Feb: Highs of 16, lows of 8
March - April: Highs of 20, lows of 10
May - June: Highs of 25, lows of 14
July - August: Highs of 28, lows of 18
September - October: Highs of 28, lows of 17
November - December: Highs of 18, low of 9
Please always check the forecast a week or so before you leave to confirm the type of clothing and SPF protection you might need.
We visited Lisbon twice so far, both times in May. During our first visit in mid-May the temperatures were around 33 degrees celcius every day.
Sights, restaurants and bars broken down by Neighbourhood.
Within Lisbon lies a number of unique neighbourhoods, all of which have a slightly different energy from one another. Below, I have grouped together all of the sights and recommendations from us area by area. This will make for an easier, more efficient way for you to see the city.
One of the oldest areas of the city with tiny cobbled streets and busy cafés and shops.
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Alfama Recommendations
Below are all of the sights, spots, bars and restaurants we'd suggest seeing / using if you have the opportunity. My particular favourites in this area are The Lisbon Cathedral followed by tapas under the orange tree's at Tapas n' Friends Sé.
Passing through both Baxia and Alfama, this tram route offers an excellent tour through several of Lisbon’s sights. To ride 28 we’d recommend purchasing a metro cassis which will allow you to hop on and off to be able to take in as much as possible. This route passes close to:Pink StreetLisbon CathedralCasteloPraça do Comércio
*Pro Tip: Try to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid a busy tram!
(Average time spent here: The full route takes around 50 minutes, depending how often you hop on/hop off)
With beautiful city views and a treasure trove of relics within the side chambers, the Cathedral is steeped in authentic Lisbon heritage.
(Average time spent here: 20-40 minutes)
Standing on the highest hill in Lisbon, the castle offers incredible panoramic views of the city and beyond. It is also home to a museum and archaeological site. This is one that you could potentially skip if you’re only going for the view.
Entry is over 20 Euros and there are a number of similar areas that you can visit for free!
(Average time spent here: 1-2 hrs)
This one isn't a favourite on TripAdvisor and seems to have a few bad reviews, but we honestly loved it both times we've been. We took friends the second time around and they loved it too. The location and the setting is beautiful!
The boho-chic area of the city, full of bars and restaurants and lots of LGBTQ+ vibes
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Barrio Alto / Baxia Recomendaciones
Barrio is one of my favourite areas in the city. Here you'll find some of the best restaurants and bars in Lisbon. There are also a tonne of rooftop bars which are perfect for soaking up the sun with a cold drink in hand whilst taking in the unique skyline of the city.
There are a couple of notable lookouts in this area, my favourite being Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.
This particular lookout has a little cafe/bar at the very end of the platform, where you can grab a coffee or an Aperol Spritz and simply watch the world pass you by.
(Average time spent here: 20 mins - 1.5 hrs)
Time Out Market is a unique experience in Lisbon. It is home to some of the absolute best food and beverages in the city, all under one roof.
The restaurant’s featured here have been selected by the Time Out team based on their quality of meals and service. Grab lunch, dinner or even just a snack here!
(Average time spent here: 30 mins - 2 hrs)
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There's a lovely little park outside of Time Out where they also have an outdoor bar and occasional market. If you're looking for a lazy afternoon, grab some food from TO, get a drink from the outside bar and spend a couple of hours chilling in the grass and watching the world go by.
Known for its bright pink paint and even brighter nightlife, pink street is a ‘passing through’ sight to see on the way to your next stop.
Pink street is also where you’ll find the famous rainbow umbrellas and is a perfect spot for an Instagram shot.
(Average time spent here: 5 mins - 10 mins) unless exploring the nightlife!
This place can be tricky to find, and when you do find it you're going to be like 'ain't no way in hell this is right'. Let me tell you now... is it.
It looks like a beat up old car park and you have to climb up the car park stairs to access the rooftop. Once you do, its a pretty great setting with good drinks and a lively vibe.
We popped into Lumi for a very quick drink on the way to dinner. The food looked so good though that we kind of wished we'd known about it before so we could have ate there instead! Definitely on our list to try when we go back.
100 Maneiras is one of the oldest restaurants in all of Portugal. Safe to say they must be doing something right to still be in business after all of these years.
One of the 'hottest' restaurants in the city, this ceviche restaurant has quickly become one of the most popular in Lisbon. We haven't been here as I'm not sure it's Debs' cup of tea but I've heard amazing things about it, and the reviews speak for themselves.
Be warned, the hike up to this place is rough, especially when it's almost 40 degrees outside but once you get there, it makes it all worth it.
My friends and I had the best night at this place. Great food, great setting, lovely drinks and the nicest staff!
Fish bar that was featured on 'Somebody Feed Phil'. Honestly if it's good enough for Phil, it's good enough for us! We've not tested this place out yet but the reviews are pretty spectacular.
The shopping & theatre district, home to some of Lisbon’s most famous shopping areas
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Chiado Recommendations
Another lovely neighbourhood in the heart of the city, Chiado is home to some of the best shopping in Lisbon. My favourite spot here are without a doubt the convent, a must see for those interested in the history of the city.
This is one for those of you who are interested in history, architecture or unusual sites. Carmo Convent is a ruined gothic style church, which was partially destroyed during the 1755 earthquake that devastated Lisbon.
What sets this particular church apart is that the whole roof is missing, with many of the other main walls still in tact!
(Average time spent here: 1 hr - 1.5 hrs)
The perfect spot for lunch, people watching and basking in the sun. The Praça do Comércio is a plaza filled with shops, bars and restaurants situated right on the riverside. It’s also home to Arco da Rua Augusta, Lisbon’s famous sculpted arch.
(Average time spent here: 1 hr - 1.5 hrs)
I think this is the only Michelin star restaurant on the list and I don't always tend to recommend them, particularly if it's super pricey but I think the experience here is unmatched anywhere in the rest of the city.
We haven't tried this one yet so if you try it, let us know what you think!
Belcanto is an upscale Michelin star restaurant offering unique tasting menus in the heart of the city. It's gained a lot of attention in recent years and is in the top 50 restaurants in the world!
I would personally say that this area has some of the best bars in the city. My personal favourite is the V, which is actually my favourite drinking spot in the whole of Lisbon.
There's something weirdly peaceful about this spot, even though it is set within the heart of the bustling city. I could honestly waste hours here by the glass walls, taking in the views and sipping on cocktails until the sun goes down.
One of Lisbon's hidden bars, you have to ring the bell to be let into this speakeasy. The interiors are some of the quirkiest in the city and we hear great things about the atmosphere here.
The drinks here are super imaginative and the fact that it's a speakeasy adds to the vibe of this hidden bar.
This place gets super busy so be prepared to wait for a spot, or book in advance for special occasions.
Lisbon's best hidden secret, this deceptively large hidden bar has both indoor and outdoor space and serves a wide selection of cocktails, wines and spirits.
Arguably one of the 'hottest' spots in the city, Seen by Oliver is a very trendy rooftop bar and restaurant serving modern cocktails and food to match.
Looking for something a little edgier than the posh spots? Mama Shelter offers a refreshing experience in the heart of Lisbon with homemade meals, delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere.
*Hotel rooms are also available here!
Our personal favourite breakfast spot in Lisbon.
This place serves great coffee and has a fab selection of breakfast choices on the menu.
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Other areas in the city
There are many other areas of the city to explore including Belem, Alcântara and Armada. These areas are slightly further out of the centre of the city, but still easy to get to and well worth the trip!
Alcântara
This district of Lisbon is home to some of the most iconic, quirky and stylish spots in the city.
LX Factory is a must see whilst in Lisbon. It’s a quirky area of the city that’s full of independent shops, bars, restaurants and you could easily spend an entire afternoon here. There are a variety of ways to get to LX, but our personal favourite is by train. Grab the train to Cascais from Cais do Sodre and get off at Alcantara-Mar. LX is just a 10 minute walk from this station, and is just two stops on the train!
(Average time spent here: 1 hr - 3hrs)
We haven't tried this spot ourselves yet, but it sounds like our kind of place.
This area is made up of a variety of bars and restaurants housed in early 20th century warehouses located just beneath the 25 bridge.
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Belem
Belem is another district within Lisbon and is one of the furthest to get to from the city centre. Although slightly further afield, we’d highly recommend spending some time here if you can. The Tower of Belem is the most visited attraction in Lisbon and it’s easy to see why. Other than the tower, the Jerónimos Monastery is also in this area, along with a variety of shops, restaurants and bars.
It’s also home to one of the most famous pastry shops in the city: Pastéis de Belém. They sell tens of thousands of natas per day (yes, you read that correctly), and can get extremely busy during peak hours. If you want to grab yourself a treat from here we’d recommend getting there as early as possible!
Pastéis de Belém started making the original custard based treats back in 1837 and have been a firm favourite in the city ever since.
If you want to grab a treat from this bakery, I'd advice getting there EARLY. We've been by a couple of times and the queue is always out the door and often miles down the street!
A UNESCO sight, and something that is impossible to miss if you we walking past, this attraction is one of the most visited in the city. If I were you, I'd stick to marvelling from the outside as I've heard that the queues here can be endless and the overall experience doesn't live up to the waiting time.
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*Pro Tip: save your time and money by simply admiring the belém tower from the outside. Queues can be wild, it’s fairly pricey and the views aren’t all that great.
The Jerónimos Monastery is one of the most visited sites in Lisbon. This landmark features some of the grandest architecture in the city and is particularly beautiful in the summer months. Split into two areas, the church and the cloisters, you could easily spend a couple of hours here admiring the infinite details of the buildings.
(Average time spent here: 1 hr - 2hrs)
Whilst this structure is impressive simply to look at, you can also climb to the top to get panoramic views of the river and the city. We've never done it but who knows, maybe next time?
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Armada
The very last place on my sightseeing list is The Sanctuary of Christ the King. This famous statue reminds me so muchof the Christ the Redeemer in Rio, and for good reason, it was inspired by the one in Brazil to express gratitude for the whole of Portugal.Visiting this monument offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River.
...And if you do head across the water, be sure to book a table at Ponto Finale. This gorgeous waterside restaurant has a patio that makes you feel like you’re practially on a boat. The food is incredible, the views even better and the sunsets in the summer are worth booking 6 months in advance for.
Although we haven't had the opportunity to visit, this is supposedly one of the most majestic sights in Lisbon. It's definitely on our list for the next trip!
This place is incredibly special.
If you can, please book a sunset dinner in advance because it was honestly the highlight of our group trip.
The food here is simple but delicious and fresh. The vibe is unmatched anywhere else in the city and the setting is just insane. This is probably our top recommendation in the city.
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Getting to Point Final is pretty easy.
Head to Cais do Sodré and get yourself a return ticket to Cacilhas. (The queues for tickets can be long, so please be sure to be at the port at early to avoid having to wait for the next ferry. I'd suggest 20 minutes early based on personal experience).
The ferries depart every 10/20 minutes and it takes less than 10 to cross the river.
When you get off the ferry at Cacilhas turn right (towards the bridge) and keep walking until you see the restaurant which juts out into the river, you won't miss it. It's about a 15 minute walk, but the views are beautiful.
This side of the river can be colourful of an evening, with homeless folk occupying a lot of the empty warehouse buildings along the river. They're harmless but none the less just keep your wits about you!
I actually ended up dancing in the street with them to their music on the way back to the ferry!
You might have noticed that I haven't mentioned one of the biggest attractions in Lisbon: The Santa Just a Lift. Personally, I'd skip it unless it's one of the only things you're going for. It's just a lift that you have to pay to go on, and the views are so-so in comparison to the other lookout’s that are free! Also, whilst it is on my list, Pilar 7 isn’t a must. It’s not the easiest to get to and it’s 6 euro’s per ticket. You can see the bridge from across the city and if you explore the area of Alcântara you'll get better views from there and across the river.
Sights & Restaurants slightly outside of the neighbourhoods
We do have a few other recommendations that are either slightly further outside of the above areas or aren't located in one place. This is relevant to the tuk-tuk tours, which you can find literally everywhere, all over the city. Whilst we'd highly suggest taking a tuk-tuk tour if you can, we also would recommend doing a little research into the companies before you decide who to go with. We know a driver personally who we have used, and who family have used. He has a great knowledge of the area and will tailor your tour to your own wants and requests. For his info, drop us an email so we can forward it on!
Slightly further out but well worth the trip.
Rated one of the best brunches in Lisbon!
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Best ways to get around the city
The cheapest and easiest way to get around the city is to walk. Lisbon is a pretty condensed area and you can get to most of the central sights within half an hour, depending on where you're staying.
Alternatively the metro and train systems are another cheap way to get around Lisbon. Each trip on the metro costs just €1.80, or you can opt for a CARR ticket which is just €6.80 for as many trips as you need in 24 hours! The ticket machines are available in several different languages and the metro maps are very easy to read.
To plan routes in advance, I simply type in my start and finish destination into google and tap the metro journey button to see routes.
Uber / Bolt is another great way to get around if you're looking to go a bit further afield or if you aren't a lover of public transport. Or if you're looking for something a bit different ask one of the tuk-tuk providers if you can hitch a ride to your destination!
Where to stay
Personally, I love a short term rental when staying in a vibrant city, especially when travelling in a group. But if you'd prefer a hotel, these are the one's that rank the highest. I've put them in price order, lowest first!
My personal favourite, and the one I'd choose if staying again (particularly in the hotter months) would be Brown's. The addition of the rooftop pool is a deal breaker for me!
Home to Mensagem (one of the restaurants in this guide), this hotel is super central and a pretty good price considering the standard of the property and the location.
I love a boutique hotel and this one looks spectacular. The building itself is a work of art and the rooms have been carefully restored to beautifully complement the history of the building.
This place is slightly 'further out' but still in a fab location. The reviews of this place are outstanding and the rooftop pool looks beautiful. I can 100% imagine myself floating in the pool after a long day of sightseeing, before getting ready to head out for dinner.
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Repeating our top tips:
- Comfy shoes are a MUST
- Be prepared for very hilly walks
- Use SPF during hot months and stay hydrated
- Book an airbnb if you're travelling in a group
- Use the metro for a cheap, easy way to get around the city
- Research tuk-tuk companies before getting in one
We hope that after spending some time reading through this guide, you have enough information to get you started on planning your own trip to the beautiful city of Lisbon.
If you're after a more extensive guide, or would like your own personal itinerary, please do not hesitate to reach out! We'd absolutely love to be a part of your upcoming trip.
Hi there! We are Debs and Becs, wife and wife team who are on a mission to explore as many corners of this earth as we can. We own a few businesses and run them remotely whilst on our adventures around the globe.
One of our businesses, Pride Escapes, is relatively new and is focused around creating content that can help others plan their upcoming trips based on our personal experiences and knowledge about these areas.
It sounds odd, but I (Becs) honestly enjoy the planning process of a trip as much as the actual trip itself. I LOVE spending hours researching a destination before we head off on an adventure and I always try to connect with local business owners of my destination to ensure I get the most out of a holiday.
I figured that if I was already putting in the effort to plan my own holidays, perhaps it would be helpful to find a platform where I could pass this information on to others who maybe do not enjoy the planning part as much as I do.
Our guides are also perfect for those who simply don't have the time to put into the research and want to have an extensive roster of information at hand for their upcoming trip.
Wherever you're headed or whatever you need, we would be honoured to be a part of your travelling experience.
Drop us a message or head over to our website for further contact information.
- Debs & Becs
