Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal for an Unforgettable Trip Experience

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a unique blend of historical charm and modern architecture. This centuries-old European city is off the beaten track, offering a wealth of attractions and activities. From the medieval streets of Alfama to the modern architecture of the Belém Tower and visiting Lisbon Oceanarium, one of the largest aquariums in Europe, the coastal city of Lisbon will leave you enthralled with its timeless allure.   

One of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Lisbon appeals to its guests with ancient structures, contemporary art galleries, and modern infrastructure. The city is known for its old-fashioned trams in bright yellow colour, winding cobblestone streets, and remarkable terraces. Lisbon is a city of contrasts, steeped in history yet constantly evolving, laid-back yet bursting with energy. There are many different ways for tourists to feel the spirit of this city. Apart from historic streets, cultural and artistic hubs, and soul-stirring Fado melodies, the town also fascinates tourists with its delectable cuisine, especially fresh seafood and Pastel de nata.  

Top Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal 

Let’s look at the list of some of the best things to do in Lisbon, Portugal, for a fun and memorable vacation.

• Explore Belém City 
• Ride Tram 28 
• Wander Through Alfama 
• Relax by the River in Cais do Sodré 
• Visit the LX Factory  
• Discover Bairro Alto’s Nightlife 
• Explore Modern Lisbon in Parque das Nações 
• Experience Lisbon’s Culinary Scene

Explore Belém City 

A historic district in Lisbon, Belém is a place famous for many significant landmarks from Portugal's history. It was from here that explorers like Vasco da Gama set sail during the Age of Discovery. Located on the banks of the River Tagus, Belém is home to some of the most significant monuments of Lisbon. Key tourist attractions to be added to your list of things to see in Lisbon include: -  

Jerónimos Monastery – A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning Manueline architecture. 

Opening Hours

• Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (October to April)
• Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM (May to September)
• Monday: Closed

Belém Tower – A former defence tower turned symbol of Lisbon. 

Opening Hours

• Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (October to April)
• Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM (May to September)
• Monday: Closed

Monument to the Discoveries – A tribute to Portugal's great explorers. 

Opening Hours

• Monday to Sunday 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (March to September)
• Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (October to February)

Ride Tram 28

For a charming and effortless way to see the city’s highlights, hop on the iconic Tram 28. This vintage yellow tram makes its way through Lisbon’s most historic neighbourhoods, including Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. The ride itself is a tourist attraction and a bit of a rollercoaster, navigating sharp turns and steep inclines. Try to board at the Martim Moniz stop early in the morning to avoid long lines and grab a window seat. 

Timing:

• Morning start: 5:40 am from Martim Moniz
• Evening end: 11:00 pm (weekdays) and 10:30 pm (weekends)

Ticket Price: 3.10 euros (about $3.50) one way

Wander Through Alfama  

The city's oldest and most atmospheric neighbourhood, Alfama, is the prime tourist destination in Lisbon. A maze of narrow alleys, pastel-coloured houses, and hidden courtyards, Alfama feels like a journey back in time. Surviving the devastating 1755 earthquake that destroyed much of Lisbon, Alfama retains its medieval layout and Moorish influences, offering an authentic window into the city's layered past. As you wander through Alfama, you will get to hidden courtyards, miradouros, and azulejo-covered facades. Key tourist attractions include:  

São Jorge Castle- A hilltop Moorish castle with panoramic views over Lisbon and the Tagus River.

Opening Hours  

• Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (March to October)
• Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (November to February)

Lisbon Cathedral - The oldest church in Lisbon, dating back to the 12th century. 

Opening Hours  

• Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (November to May)
• Monday to Saturday: 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM (June to October)
• Sunday and public holidays: Closed

Fado Museum - Learn about Fado, Portugal’s haunting traditional music, born in Alfama. 

Opening Hours  

• Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Monday: Closed

Miradouro de Santa Luzia & Miradouro das Portas do Sol - Two of Lisbon’s most iconic viewpoints. 

Opening Hours  

• Always Open (best to visit during early mornings and late afternoons)

Relax by the River in Cais do Sodré 

Located near the Tagus River near Baixa, Cais do Sodré is one of the most beautiful areas of Lisbon. Once a seedy dockside area, it has transformed into a trendy riverfront district. It’s home to vibrant nightlife, centuries-old markets, casual eateries, clubs, and cultural events. The city features a unique blend of cultural depth and tranquil beauty, making it a must-visit area in Lisbon. Take a stroll along the Ribeira das Naus promenade, grab a drink at Quiosque Lisboa, or rent a bike and cruise the waterfront. At night, the area’s Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho) buzzes with bars and neon lights. Overall, Cais do Sodré captivates tourists with its historical significance and activities.  

Opening Hours 

• Always open 

Visit the LX Factory 

One of the best things to do in Lisbon, Portugal, is to visit this 19th-century historical industrial complex. Once an industrial complex for textiles, the LX Factory is now an artistic enclave and a creative village within the city. The sprawling space is now filled with independent boutiques, restaurants, bookstores, and street art. Located 3 km west of the city centre, LX Factory attracts visitors with its visually captivating architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Highlights of the LX Factory include ‘The Art Alley’ and the outdoor area filled with graffiti-filled murals, street art, and cafes.

Don’t miss: 

• Ler Devagar – One of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. 
• Rio Maravilha – A rooftop bar with great food and river views. 
• Sunday markets featuring local artisans and food stalls. 

Opening Hours  

• Most shops and cafes operate from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Discover Bairro Alto’s Nightlife 

Exploring Bairro Alto’s nightlife is one of the best stuff to do in Lisbon. Situated in the centre of Lisbon, Bairro Alto is known for its vibrant nightlife and artistic atmosphere. As the sun goes down, Lisbon’s legendary nightlife district, called Bairro Alto, lights up. Bairro Alto is a vibrant neighbourhood that transforms after dark, with a diverse mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues drawing in night owls and party lovers. By day, its narrow, charming streets invite exploration, offering a glimpse of colourful street art, eclectic boutiques, and authentic cafes. Bairro Alto’s café culture is a lively blend of aromas, flavours, and community. Both locals and travellers flock to its cosy spots to enjoy bold Portuguese coffee and irresistible pastries. As conversations spill into the narrow cobblestone streets, the neighbourhood hums with warmth and charm that’s impossible to ignore.

Pro Tip: 

Start with a cocktail at a rooftop bar like Park (hidden atop a parking garage) before hopping from one lively spot to another. For live Fado in a more intimate setting, try A Tasca do Chico.  

Explore Modern Lisbon in Parque das Nações  

Located in the oriental part of the city, Parque das Nações was developed for the 1998 World Expo. It is a modern and vibrant area with a revolutionary vibe. While much of Lisbon is steeped in history, Parque das Nações showcases its modern side. It features a waterfront promenade, modern hotels, and many key tourist attractions. Parque das Nações offers a distinctive mix of skyscrapers and relaxing sights along the river. It is a perfect place to visit for those looking for stunning modern architecture, family-friendly sightseeing spots, and a lively atmosphere along the Tagus River.  

Don’t miss: 

Oceanário de Lisboa – One of the largest aquariums in Europe.  

Opening Hours  

• Monday to Sunday: 10 AM to 8 PM   

Telecabine Lisbon – A cable car offering scenic rides along the river. 

Opening Hours  

• Monday to Sunday: 11 AM to 7 PM (May to Mid-September) 
• Monday to Sunday: 10:30 AM to 8 PM (Mid-September to Late October) 

Vasco da Gama Tower and Bridge – Engineering marvels and great photo ops. 

Opening Hours  

• Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM 

Experience Lisbon’s Culinary Scene 

Next in the list of best things to do in Lisbon city is to experience the city’s culinary delights. Lisbon’s food scene is a perfect blend of traditional Portuguese flavours and modern culinary influences. There are many excellent restaurants, from traditional taverns to Michelin-starred restaurants, serving the most iconic dishes and beverages. For those looking to understand Lisbon’s vibrant food culture in a better way, many culinary activities, such as distillery tours and cooking classes, offer a practical way to connect with the gourmet traditions of the city.

Must-Visit Restaurants & Dishes  

Rosetta’s: Grilled peaches with burrata & zucchini fritters with dill 

• Address: R. da Rosa 39, 1200-190 Lisboa (Bairro Alto) 
• Timings: 07:00 PM to 11:00 PM (Sunday & Monday –Closed)  

Taberna Sal Grosso: Lamb sandwich, Bacalhau (salted cod), and Fried baby squid 

• Address: Calçada do Forte 22, 1100-256 Lisboa (Alfama) & R. Correia Garção 15, 1200-640 Lisboa (São Bento) 
• Timings: 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM & 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM (daily)  

O Frade: Rabbit escabeche, any rice dish.   

• Address: Calçada da Ajuda 14, 1300-598 Lisboa (Belém) 
• Timings: 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM (Monday through Friday) 

Ponto Final: Fish rice, grilled fish. 

• Address: R. do Ginjal 72, 2800-285 Almada (Cacilhas) 
• Timings: 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM & 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM (Tuesday Closed)  

Parra Wine Bistro: Tartare on brioche with cured egg and a fat Cantabrian anchovy 

• Address: Rua da Esperança 72, 1200-658 Lisboa (Santos) 
• Timings: 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM (Tuesday Closed) 

With so many things to do in Lisbon, it is no surprise that the city is consistently ranked among the top travel destinations in Europe. It is welcoming, walkable, and wonderfully unforgettable. For easy trip planning, you can explore Veena World’s extensive range of Portugal tour packages. So, pack your bags for a lasting and memorable trip experience.

FAQs 

Q1. Can Lisbon be explored in a relaxed, slow-travel style? 

Yes, Lisbon is perfect for slow travellers who enjoy walking, soaking in the atmosphere, and unstructured exploration. The city’s miradouros (viewpoints) are ideal for relaxing with a coffee while watching the sunset. Neighbourhoods like Graça, Principe Real, and Campo de Ourique offer a blend of local life, small cafés, and boutique stores away from the tourist crowds. Riding a vintage tram, listening to street musicians in Baixa, or simply wandering along the river promenade can be just as rewarding as ticking off major landmarks.  

Q2. Is Lisbon suitable for families, couples, and solo travellers alike? 

Yes, Lisbon is a versatile destination that suits all types of travellers. Couples will love the romantic views, river cruises, and tiled streets of Alfama. Families can enjoy Oceanário de Lisboa (one of Europe’s largest aquariums), tram rides, and parks like Eduardo VII. Solo travellers will appreciate the friendly locals, easy walkability, safety, and rich culture that make wandering on your own deeply rewarding. The city’s mix of old-world charm and creative modern energy offers something for everyone.  

Q3. What are the best neighbourhoods in Lisbon to explore for local culture and character? 

Lisbon's neighbourhoods each offer their own vibe and are best explored on foot. Alfama is the oldest district, known for its maze-like alleys, historic charm, and live Fado music echoing from tiny restaurants. Bairro Alto is famous for its bohemian energy and comes alive at night with bars and music. For a more upscale, artsy feel, Principe Real offers stylish shops, concept cafés, and leafy parks. Cais do Sodré, once a red-light district, is now a nightlife and food hotspot. And Mouraria, one of the most diverse areas, is great for discovering Lisbon’s multicultural roots and hidden street art.  

Q4. Is Lisbon a good destination for art and design lovers? 

Definitely. Lisbon has a fast-growing reputation as a creative capital in Europe. Contemporary art lovers should visit MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) and Museu Coleção Berardo for modern and international art. The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is a must for classical art and ancient artefacts. Urban art fans can walk through neighbourhoods like Mouraria, Marvila, and even LX Factory to spot murals, installations, and experimental spaces. Lisbon also has a thriving design scene with concept stores, pop-up galleries, and local craft markets.  

Q5. Where can I experience authentic Fado music in Lisbon? 

• Tasca do Chico (Bairro Alto): A beloved hole-in-the-wall spot for casual Fado nights. 
• Mesa de Frades (Alfama): Housed in a former chapel, intimate and atmospheric. 
• Clube de Fado (near Sé Cathedral): A bit more polished, often featuring top performers. 
• Museu do Fado: Learn about the music's history and cultural roots before heading to a live show.
• Look for smaller, traditional venues instead of large tourist-focused ones for the most authentic experience.