Lisbon, the city of seven hills, is a joy to explore: rattling yellow trams, tiled facades, sweeping viewpoints, riverside monuments, and fado drifting out of tiny taverns. Add creative districts, a world-class aquarium, beaches, and Sintra on the doorstep, and you have one of Europe's most rewarding capitals. Here are the 20 best things to do in Lisbon.
Belém
1. Belém Tower
This 16th-century fortress on the Tagus River is a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light and shorter queues.
2. Jerónimos Monastery
A masterpiece of Manueline architecture with an ornate cloister, and the resting place of the explorer Vasco da Gama. Go on a weekday at opening time.
3. Pastéis de Belém
Next to the monastery, the bakery that has made pastéis de Belém since 1837 still uses its secret recipe. Eat them warm with cinnamon and powdered sugar.
4. MAAT
The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology has a striking curved roof you can walk on, with views along the river.
The Historic Center
5. Alfama
Get lost in Lisbon's oldest neighborhood, a maze of steep lanes, staircases, and tiled houses. Start at the Miradouro de Santa Luzia and stay for a fado dinner in the evening.
6. São Jorge Castle
Perched on the city's highest hill, the castle offers some of the best views in Lisbon. Arrive at opening time or late in the afternoon.
7. Lisbon Cathedral (Sé)
Lisbon's oldest church, with a fortress-like Romanesque facade, has survived several earthquakes. Visit the cloister to see archaeological excavations.
8. Tram 28
The classic vintage tram route winds through Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. Board early in the morning near Martim Moniz to avoid long queues, and watch out for pickpockets.
9. Praça do Comércio
Lisbon's grand riverside square, framed by yellow arcaded buildings, is beautiful at sunset. Climb the Arco da Rua Augusta for a view down the main shopping street.
10. Elevador de Santa Justa
This wrought-iron elevator links Baixa to Carmo Square, with a viewing platform at the top. Go early or late to skip the queue, or walk up through Chiado and reach the platform from the top.
11. Carmo Convent
The roofless Gothic church, left in ruins by the 1755 earthquake, now houses a small archaeological museum. The arches are especially atmospheric in the late afternoon light.
12. National Tile Museum
Housed in a former convent, the Museu Nacional do Azulejo traces the history of Portugal's famous tiles, including a huge tiled panorama of Lisbon before the earthquake.
13. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
One of the highest viewpoints in the city, with sweeping views of the castle, the river, and the rooftops. Come at sunset.
Food, Culture, and Modern Lisbon
14. Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira)
The historic Ribeira market houses both a traditional produce market and a busy food hall with stalls from top local chefs. Come for lunch midweek to find a seat more easily.
15. LX Factory
A former industrial complex turned creative hub, with restaurants, bars, design shops, street art, and a beautiful bookshop. Visit on Sunday for the market.
16. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
A superb art collection spanning ancient Egypt to the 20th century, set in peaceful gardens. Check the website for free-entry times.
17. Oceanário de Lisboa
One of Europe's largest aquariums, with a giant central tank of sharks, rays, and a huge sunfish. It is in Parque das Nações, the modern riverside district built for Expo 98.
18. Estufa Fria
A lush greenhouse garden in Eduardo VII Park, full of tropical plants, ponds, and shady paths.
Day Trips and Beaches
19. Costa da Caparica
Across the river, miles of golden sand and Atlantic waves are popular for surfing and long seafood lunches. Take the ferry to Cacilhas and then a bus, or a direct bus from the city.
20. Sintra
Just 40 minutes by train from Rossio station, Sintra is a UNESCO-listed hillside town of palaces, castles, and gardens. Visit in the morning and book tickets in advance. Read our guide to day trips from Lisbon for more ideas.
Tips for Visiting Lisbon
- Wear good shoes: The hills are steep, and the polished cobblestones can be slippery.
- Use a Navegante card: A reloadable card for the metro, buses, trams, ferries, and suburban trains.
- Check opening days: Many museums close on Mondays.
- Stay connected: An egoViet Portugal eSIM keeps you online for maps, tram times, and bookings, with no roaming fees.
Plan the rest of your trip with our Portugal travel guide and our 10-day Portugal itinerary.
FAQs: Things to Do in Lisbon
How many days do you need in Lisbon?
Three days is enough to see the main sights and take a day trip to Sintra. With four or five days, add Cascais and the beaches.
What is Lisbon famous for?
Lisbon is famous for its hills and viewpoints, yellow trams, tiled buildings, fado music, pastéis de nata, and Belém's monuments.
Is Lisbon walkable?
Yes, but it is very hilly. Combine walking with trams, funiculars, and the metro.
What is the best area to stay in Lisbon?
Baixa and Chiado are the most central. Alfama is atmospheric, and Príncipe Real is quieter and stylish.