Last Updated: March 10, 2024
Lisbon is the kind of city that, from the moment you arrive, it makes you feel as if you could easily live there (at least that’s how I felt).
We visited this beautiful city while road-tripping from Sevilla, Spain to Algarve, Portugal and we thought, albeit last minute, that it would be a good idea to also add Lisbon to our travel plans. It was the best decision we made during this trip because as much as we loved the south of Portugal, the moment we arrived in Lisbon, it was love at first sight.
Lisbon is the second oldest European capital, with Athens being the first one. This coastal gem of a city sits on not one, nor two, but seven hills, overlooking the river Tagus, meaning that it has some pretty spectacular views. The winner for me, however, was the laid back lifestyle, the hipster vibe and the vibrant colours of the city.
As you continue reading, you will see (and surely agree) why Lisbon should be on your future travel plans. We will go through the main attractions you must see, what local delicacies to try and everything you need to know that will make your planning a whole lot easier.
WHEN TO VISIT LISBON
The best time to visit Lisbon is during May and September. In May, the city is just preparing to welcome all the tourists which flock during the summer months. The flowers are in full bloom adding even more charm to the cobblestone streets and colorful neighborhoods. In September, the crowds start to lessen and the temperature drops just a couple of degrees, creating the perfect weather allowing you to explore during the day without having to deal with extreme heat.
HOW TO GET TO LISBON
You can land at Lisbon airport and catch an Uber to your hotel (uber rides are quite cheap in Lisbon). Another alternative would be to combine a cross-country road trip between Spain and Portugal. We found a bargain flight from Malta to Seville with Ryanair. The plan was to rent a car, spend one day in Seville and then drive to Portugal for a few days, exploring the Algarve region. As mentioned above, Lisbon was a very last-minute add-on to our travel plans.
WHERE TO STAY
We found the cutest B&B in Alfama, one of the most photogenic neighbourhoods in Lisbon. This area is packed with B&B’s and I would highly recommend that you stay here during your visit as at this area you will find plenty of things to do day and night, right at your doorstep.
WHAT TO SEE IN LISBON
BELEM
Two architectural marvels that you should not miss during your visit to Lisbon, are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery. Belem is getting super crowded by tourists so you might want to go as early in the day as possible in order to explore it in peace and for a chance of taking beautiful pictures unobstructed by the crowds. We especially loved the morning light reflecting on Belem Tower and the river, creating a magical aura.
Belem is also home to the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology). The museum is located on the promenade, facing river Tagus and although the innovative architecture comes in contradiction with traditional Lisbon, it is undoubtedly a marvelous sight.
Last but not least, in Belem is where you will find Pasteis de Belem selling the most delicious pastel de nata (egg tart pastry with cinnamon) or otherwise known as Portuguese custard tarts. This is seriously THE BEST PLACE in Lisbon to try these local delicacies. They are absolutely mouthwatering!
ALFAMA DISTRICT
Alfama is the oldest district of Lisbon, with steep cobblestone streets, traditional buildings, and plenty of restaurants. Start your day early and head over to Miradouro de Santa Luzia terrace to admire the panoramic view over Lisbon rooftops and the Tagus river. Wander through the winding tiny alleys and don’t be afraid to get lost. Pick one of the local bars to sit and unwind with a glass of Vinho Verde or a Sagres Beer. While strolling around, make a stop at Castelo de São Jorge. The castle is standing on the hill and it offers a unique vista over Lisbon.
TRAM 28
Riding the iconic tram 28 in Lisbon is by many a MUST do. This particular model of trams can only be found in Lisbon in our days, nowhere else in the world. Beware, however, as the route is not exactly what one would expect. Burdened by hordes of tourists inside the tram, queues at the ticket booth, and pickpockets. The best experience is actually from the outside, watching the tram as it traverses so you can snap great pictures to remember it by.
DOWNTOWN LISBON
The best way to explore Lisbon is on your own two feet. That way you can ensure that you don’t miss something along the way. Make your way through the winding alleyways and you will find yourself passing by some of the most vibrant neighborhoods you’ve ever seen, with colorful houses, decorated by remarkable tiling.
BAIRRO ALTO
Bairro Alto is where the nightlife of Lisbon happens. Although during the day it may seem like a simple quiet neighbourhood, as soon as the sun sets, it changes face completely and comes to life. This is the party zone of Lisbon, so don’t be afraid to let loose and do what the locals do, sit at a bar and enjoy a few drinks in one of the most bohemian neighbourhoods of Lisbon.
BAIXA
You will know that you’ve reached Baixa, Lisbon’s downtown, from the structured pedestrian streets, the neoclassical buildings and the grand plazas. Praça do Comércio was by far my favourite, with the triumphal arch Arco da Rua Augusta and the arches on both sides radiating a grandiose aura.
CAIS DO SONDRE
It is difficult to imagine that Cais do Sodré was once a scruffy neighbourhood, attracting mainly sailors at its red-light district and bars. In recent years, however, it has been transformed into one of the most trendy neighbourhoods with a boho atmosphere, plenty of bars with live music, restaurants, and pop-up shops. This is where you will find one of the most instagrammable streets in Lisbon, the famous Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho).
MERCADO DA RIBEIRA
If you’re a foodie (like me), then you will love this place. Mercado da Ribeira, or otherwise known as Time Out Market, is Lisbon’s largest food market and it is where some of the longest-running vendors of Lisbon sell their fresh fruit and vegetables. On its stalls, you will definitely find something to satisfy your appetite, from fish, seafood, and sushi to meat, pizza, and ice cream. Go with an empty stomach!
SINTRA
Sintra is one of the most romantic towns in Portugal. It is as if you’ve stepped into a fairytale world with palaces, medieval castles and parks with exotic trees. You will need an entire day to explore this magical place. If you fancy spending some time by the ocean, then Praia da Ursa is an absolutely stunning beach where you can spend a few hours before heading back to Lisbon. I am sure you will leave from there with the promise of returning one day.
