Lisbon

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Lisbon

Lisbon's unique mixture of tradition and modernity, of small town and metropolis, captivates visitors from near and far. Excellent shopping, ornate architecture, late and safe nightlife, as well as restaurants with some of Europe’s best seafood are just a few of the reasons to visit this magnificent European capital.

The City

Lisbon’s heart lies beside the river, even if the city has grown in all directions. Sit down at a pavement cafe on Rossio Square and you will see the Baiza, the flat city centre that dates from the 18th century, between yourself and the river bank. Look up in one direction and you will see the São Jorge castle on the top of a hill. Look in the other direction and you will see the ruin of the Carmo Church on another hill. Walk, or take a tram to one of them and you will discover the quarters of old Lisbon, most of them with a magnificent view of the rest of the city and the river. Wander north from Rossio, you will soon end up on a stately 19th century avenue, in the part of the city which is still called "Avenidas Novas". Further north, the buildings become really new, with the city’s two large football grounds, Luz and Alvalade, and, lastly, the airport which is twenty traffic-jam-free minutes in a car from Rossio. Most of the best sights, restaurants and nightlife are situated along the river. Shopping is good along the Avenidas Novas, but otherwise the rule is to keep close to the river to get the best out of your visit.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

A true modern metropolis that can compete with any world capital in the number of attractions, Lisbon is a city that is on the up and up. Best known for its colonialist history, rich architectural tradition and Fado music, the city is perfect for long walks — hike up the hills of Alfama or at St George's Castle to get the most spectacular views. Romans, Berber pirates, Moorish builders and brutal Reconquista knights left their mark on the urban fabric of the city. Most of the best sights, restaurants and nightlife spots are situated along the river. Dive headfirst into the bohemian atmosphere of Lisbon.

São Jorge Castle

São Jorge Castle is one of the oldest structures in Lisbon. This was once a fortress (taken from the Moors in 1147), and now a must-see landmark with a fantastic view of the city. Peacocks and peahens a plenty around the grounds. Humans have been living on the castle hill since at least the 8th …

Best of Lisbon Guided Walking Tour

Experience Lisbon's rich culture and see landmarks like the Sé Cathedral and Commerce Square on an entertaining and informative guided walking tour. Stroll the historic cobbled lanes and steep inclines of Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood, Alfama, then head to the elegant Chiado district with its art deco style. Plus, learn about Fado–a music genre that can be …

Jerónimos Monastery

In Belém (situated west of the city along the river) lies Lisbon’s, and possibly Portugal’s, most important historical monument. Here you can see an opulent church and cloistered garden built in the elegant Manuelian style at the beginning of the 16th century, when Portugal was a great seafaring power. Within walking distance of many …

National Tile Museum

National Tile Museum is devoted to the quintessentially Portuguese tiles seen so frequently on buildings across the country. The collection is housed in a monastery, the varying architectural styles and decorations of which give a quick walkthrough the country's major movements. One of the highlights is an enormous tiled fresco which shows Lisbon as …

LxFactory

LxFactory is an art centre with a strong industrial feel in the Alcântara district of Lisbon. Located on the grounds of one of the most significant textile factories dating back to mid-19th century, this complex of hipster delights boasts galleries, shops, restaurants and performance spaces. Slightly off the beaten track, but an absolute must-visit …

Parque Das Nações

The area where Expo 98 was held has been successfully transformed into a centre for exhibitions, leisure and culture. The extensive amount of building since the Expo almost overshadows pearls such as Siza Vieira’s Portugal pavilion and Santiago Calatrava’s adjacent Oriente Station. Green park spaces with public art link landmark contemporary buildings like the Camões …

Surfing

Take a break from city life and catch some Atlantic waves. One of the surfing companies located in the city is Get Stoked, which holds courses for both beginners and advanced …

Tram 28

Lisbon trams have transported people through the city since 1873. Even if today trams compete with the metro, they are still the perfect way to see the city and to get an overview. Tram number 28 is an old-fashioned vehicle that goes around town and you can hop on and off during your …

Church of São Roque

Don't be fooled by the exterior — the Church of São Roque is one of the world’s most decadent and expensive churches, covered in gemstones, marble, mosaics, gold, silver and bronze. It took 130 Roman artists to create this masterpiece — one of the first Jesuit churches in the world. After being blessed by …

Lisbon Food & Wine Tour

Savour the best gourmet foods Portugal has to offer on a food and wine tour of Lisbon. You'll get to meet plenty of locals as you make stops at small businesses that produce and sell delicious cheeses, pastries and Port. Whet your appetite with petiscos — Portugal’s version of tapas; learn about Lisbon’s cafe …

Lisbon Zoo

Lisbon zoo is located right in the city centre. Home to over 360 different species, there is always something happening in the park. Fun for all the …

Gulbenkian Foundation

The largest cultural institution in Portugal was founded in 1955 when Calouste Gulbenkian, the Armenian oil millionaire, donated his estate to the country that had welcomed him during World War II. This museum houses his extensive collections and is part of a larger complex that includes concert halls, a park, restaurants and a museum …

Lisbon Oceanarium

This is one of the biggest aquariums in Europe, with more than 100 different species. Some of the animals that are exposed here are barracudas, tuna, sharks, rays and one of the most popular attractions is a large sunfish — an adventure for all …

São Pedro de Alcântara Garden & Viewing Platform

To get a panoramic view of the city you can take the Gloria Elevator from Rua de São Pedro de Alcântara up to the garden, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Here you can take a stroll between sculptures and busts of heroes and gods from Greco-Roman …

Pavilion of Knowledge

The Pavilion of Knowledge science centre is one of the extant gems of the 1998 World Expo. It was first built to focus on the mysteries of the oceans, but today it provides permanent exhibitions on chemistry, physics and other science subjects, mainly for the younger …

Fronteira Palace

This Renaissance palace, still inhabited by the 12th Marquis of Fronteira, is shown to the public through guided tours. It was built as a hunting pavilion in 1670 for the first Marquis of Fronteira — one of the most powerful families in …

Sanctuary of Christ the King

With inspiration from the famous statue in Rio de Janeiro, this 28 metre high Jesus Christ statue was built in 1959. Take the elevator to the top and enjoy a stunning view of the …

Monument to King José I at Praça do Comércio

The Monument to King José I can be found right in the middle of Praça do Comércio — Lisbon's grandest square. The square, still often referred to as Terreiro do Paço by the locals, is the perfect starting point for your exploration of the city. The square is hugged by historic buildings complete with …

Escape Room in the Heart of Lisbon

The Escape Hunt Experience Lisbon is a great activity for 2-5 friends looking for an exciting and unusual activity. Race against time to find clues and solve riddles. Choose from two unique ‘escape-the-room’ games. Tea, snacks and period costumes are all …

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Another great lookout is Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, located in a churchyard. It is recommended to visit this lookout early in the morning or late at night when this magic city lights up right beneath your …

Cascais Village

For a relaxing day trip, take the train to the former fishing village of Cascais. Here you can stroll on the beautiful decorated streets, experience the lively fish auction held every afternoon next to the main beach, visit "Museu do Mar" to see the rich history of Cascais or take a refreshing walk along …

Lisboa Story Centre

Visit the Lisboa Story Centre to get an engaging crash course into Lisbon's urban history. The whole story takes 60 minutes, so it is easy to make time for …

Museum of the Orient

The much-lauded Museum of the Orient displays a rich collection of Asian artefacts, mainly from Macau but also from Japan, East Timor and India. The area dedicated to Chinese opera is just amazing with an incredible set of authentic Chinese masks and …

Tower of Belém

The Tower of Belém, officially the Tower of Saint Vincent, was built on the banks of the Tagus between 1515 and 1521 by King Manuel I of Portugal to guard the entrance to the port of Lisbon. Through the centuries it has served as a point of embarkation and disembarkation for Portuguese explorers, as …

Monsanto Forest Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city — this forest area on and around the Monsanto Hill is home to the Monsanto Ecological Park, established to provide visitors with insight into the diverse natural and geographic environment of the area. Don't miss the Panorâmico de Monsanto — the graffitied, abandoned Brutalist building of a …

Carmo Convent & Museum

Explore the crumbling ruins of this 14th century Gothic-style Catholic convent. Some of the building was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, and it is the best-preserved pre-Earthquake building. Inside, you will find a small archeological museum showcasing the history of Old Lisbon starting in the time of Romans and …

National Palace of Queluz

Only fifteen minutes from Lisbon, this National Palace was constructed as a summer palace for King Dom Pedro. It went on to be associated with numerous important figures in Portuguese history and is a site of heritage. The art collection reflects royal taste during the eighteenth and nineteenth century — from Baroque, through Rococo, …

Miradouro das Portas do Sol

A must-see on every tourist's list, the scenic viewpoint of Portas do Sol offers panoramic views of traditional Alfama houses with rustic red roofs. The viewpoint is a good stop on your way to the São Jorge Castle — take the tram 28 up the hill and walk the rest of the way through …

National Museum of Ancient Art

Experience firsthand the splendour of Old Portugal at this national art museum. With an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, drawings and antique furniture, this museum offers a whistle-stop tour of the country's rich artistic …

Sintra

Sintra is a charming town located in the lush hills of the Serra de Sintra amidst an evergreen pine forest known for its whimsical villas and the ruins of a 10th-century Moorish castle. The main attractions include the vibrancy-coloured yellow Palácio Nacional de Pena, the Neo-Gothic mansion of Quinta da Regaleira and the medieval …

Sunset Cruise on the Tagus River

Gain a new perspective on Lisbon by taking a Tagus River cruise at sunset, when the city's architecture and topology look especially magical in the golden rays of the sun. You will manage to see all of Lisbon's major waterfront attractions in one fell swoop: the Belém Tower, the Lisbon Cathedral, the St. George’s …

Wine Tasting in the Setubal Region

The southern region of Setubal is famed for the production of sweet and fortified wines, mostly using the Muscat grape — Moscatel de Setubal. Tantalise your taste buds on a private guided day trip that will take you to multiple wineries. You will have an opportunity to sample various varietals paired with artisanal cheeses …

Dining

In Lisbon, you can find both modern and sophisticated restaurants as well as simple and very traditional ones. As you can expect, you will find the strongest Portuguese ambience in the simple and traditional places. Small and unpretentious restaurants can be found all over town and do not require booking. At most of the restaurants below, however, it is safest to book a table. Many restaurants are closed on Sundays or Mondays.

Time Out Market

The Time Out Market has been created by a team of journalists and offers a well-curated selection of over 20 restaurants, 8 bars, a music venue and market vendors — “all with the very best in Lisbon”. The market is located in a gigantic warehouse, always busy and definitely fun to visit. They …

Eleven

Eleven is one of the most sophisticated places that Lisbon can offer, featuring a sculpture by Joana Vasconcelos in the entrance and the modernist glass box at the top of Eduardo VII Park. The cuisine is supervised by Joachim Koerper, who has been awarded prizes by Guide Rouge and who has all of Iberia …

Real Fábrica

One of Lisbon's longstanding dining institutions, Real Fábrica is a reliable favourite serving a wide variety of local specialities, with an emphasis on fish …

Martinho Da Arcada

Martinho Da Arcada is one of Lisbon’s oldest restaurants, with Fernando Pessoa as the most illustrious regular guest. Enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine in a noisy dining room or on a pavement table in the arcade. This is a beautiful tiled café with price-worthy …

Casa Do Alentejo

Here you can enjoy a unique environment in a slightly dilapidated, neo-Moorish private palace two flights up from the street. The cuisine is simple traditional fare from the Alentejo …

Cervejaria Trindade

This is one of the most historic and popular restaurants in Lisbon. Cervejaria Trindade is an ale-house restaurant with a well decorated and beautiful room. The restaurant offers Portuguese cuisine and has a nice mixture of people, locals, business people and, of course, tourists. Arrive early so you don't have to wait in …

Garrafeira Alfaia

The Garrafeira Alfaia restaurant is famous for its wide range of exquisite wines but also serves delicious food. The dining room is small and the atmosphere is …

Belcanto

Soon after its opening in 1958, this restaurant became popular among the locals. At the beginning of 2012 it re-opened with a total new trendy look and interior and in November, the restaurant celebrated its first Michelin star, earned through its imaginative and delicious …

As Salgadeiras

Tucked at a back street in Bairro Alto, you will find this restaurant that serves Portuguese dishes. Inside the walls of stone and the dining room with beautiful vaults, the setting is warm and …

Ramiro Brewery

Ramiro is a small and often crowded restaurant, serving mainly fish and seafood. Even if the interior can look quite simple at a first glance, the atmosphere here is cosy and warm, and delicious dishes leave the …

Restaurante Zuari

At Restaurante Zuari, Indian cuisine is served with a warm heart. The owner, Orlando and his wife are from Goa and bring their absolute expertise to all the dishes. Delicate fragrances are mixed in a bath of perfect balance of spices — even the most basic dishes like samosas are out of this world. …

A Nossa Casa

This little place with great service specialises in local Portuguese and Brazilian cuisine. Tacos, soups, meats, salads and, of course, seafood in different variations will be beautifully arranged on your plate. Making a reservation beforehand is …

Cafés

After a day of sightseeing, find a table at a pavement café on Rossio Square. Savour one (or two) Portuguese custard tart and restore your energy. Take in the milling of the crowd with the backdrop of the Baixa neighbourhood — the flat city centre that dates from the 18th century.

Cafe Nicola

Nicola is a fashionable cafe with good pavement tables where you can watch the people around Rossio Square. There has been a cafe here since the 18th century, but the current art decor dates from 1929. You will also find a cosy restaurant in the …

A Brasileira

A Brasileira is a famous and classic cafe in Lisbon with magnificent, dark panelled interior dating from 1905. They have a newspaper and tobacco kiosk, and pavement tables which are looked at just as much as they are a vantage …

Pastéis de Belém

Pastéis de Belém is the home to Lisbon’s most famous pastry: pastel de Belém or pasteis de nata — an egg custard tart, which pairs perfectly with a bica — the Portuguese espresso. The recipe is said to have come from the monks in the adjacent Jerónimo monastery, and its secret is preserved by …

Café No Chiado

Café No Chiado is located between Teatro de S. Carlos (Opera House) and Teatro de S. Luis (City Theatre). Here you can have lunch, tea or dinner. The atmosphere is described as cosy and you can enjoy your food or drink in the outdoor restaurant, if the weather …

Padaria de São Roque

Padaria de São Roque is a popular bakery in the centre of Lisbon serving hot sandwiches and fresh pastries, including the quintessential Portuguese pastry, the pastel de nata, all in a beautiful Art Nouveau-inspired …

Fábrica da Nata

Fábrica da Nata sells Portuguese classics like pastel de nata, as well as croissants, sandwiches and coffee, all at fair prices. While you wait for your order, you can watch the famous pastels being prepared right before your very …

Frutaria Café

Among the sweet cuisine of Portugal and Lisbon, Frutaria is an attractive choice for a healthy bowl of cereal, sandwiches, salads, smoothies or juices in the morning. Waffles, cakes and other sweet pastries are other options you could go …

Ler Devagar

Ler Devagar is a quirky bookshop and cafe with two levels, stacked floor to ceiling with book in Portuguese and English. The perfect calm spot to sit and have a conversation or read a book. Upstairs you'll find a vinyl record store and several industrial machines left over from the days when the …

Underdogs

Underdogs is a real triple threat — a gallery, art store and cafe all rolled into one. This art centre is an important point in Lisbon's urban art and is definitely the coolest place in the city to grab a coffee. Local creatives flock to this loft-style building for exhibitions from Portuguese and international …

Bars & Nightlife

Lisbon is a city that takes its nightlife quite seriously. Shortly after midnight, it is best to move down towards the river and the larger clubs along Avenida 24 de Julho, the Docas area and Alcântara, where the coolest dance floors are never packed before two in the morning.

Time Out Market

Kremlin

Kremlin is one of the city’s most eccentric discotheques, which manages to attract hordes of young Portuguese people and tourists, who dance to Techno and Acid House. It has previously been voted as one of the best clubs in …

Matiz Pombalina

The cosy Matiz Pombalina Bar is a good place for tasty drinks and snacks. The cocktail list goes on and on, so you will most probably find one that appeals to …

Foxtrot Bar

Foxtrot Bar is claimed to be the best kept secret in Lisbon. Its Art Nouveau interior takes you years back in time. Here you can eat dinner until the wee hours as the kitchen is open …

Hot Clube de Portugal

The Hot Clube de Portugal is one of the oldest and most famous jazz clubs in Lisbon with an intimate cellar setting. Famous musicians from all over the world, such as Mark Turner, have entered the stage …

Dock's Club

The large crowd at the Dock's Club dance to the beats of both pop and trance. Let your hair down and get lost in the night together with a whole bunch of party …

Incógnito

Incognito bar is a great place to go for the alternative, indie and synth pop crowd. Here you can party hard or chill out in a friendly …

Musicbox

In the red light district of Cais do Sodré you will find Musicbox. This hotspot offers concerts, DJ's, and other events. Check their website for upcoming …

Ministerium

For an intense night of dancing to sets by big name international DJ's come to Ministerium on a Saturday night. Dance your shoes off under the vaulted …

Red Frog Speakeasy

This speakeasy-style bar enjoys a popularity for the special decor and excellent beverages (cocktails in particular). Ring the doorbell to be let …

Musa de Marvila

Musa de Marvila is a must-visit for anyone interested in the brewing process, beer tasting, or the history of the beverage in Portugal — food is served here, too. The brewery often plays host to events and …

Dois Corvos Taproom

Dois Corvos is an independent, family-owned, artisanal brewery. Beer connoisseurs will want to order a beer tray to try 5 different kinds of brews. Small bites and snacks are excellent — share them with your friends and perhaps even catch a Benfica …

Shopping

A lot of the shopping in Lisbon is now housed in enormous shopping centres such as Colombo and Amoreiras, or in smaller gallerias. The city’s old centre, Baixa, retains its identity as a traditional shopping district, where you walk on the streets (some of them traffic-free) and drop into the shops. Go in for cork designs, gourmet food, crafts, soaps, shoes and if your wallet allows, gold. Chiado is close to Baixa, and has the reputation of being the city’s finest shopping district. Chiado successfully manages to combine the gallery model with open shopping, combining the best of both worlds.