48 Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal: The Complete Travel Guide

Lisbon, Portugal, is one of Europe’s most charming cities with its cobblestone streets, vintage trams, stunning viewpoints, and some of the best pastel de nata’s you’ll ever taste. In this guide, I put together everything you need to plan your trip, from must-see spots and hidden gems, to the best food, day trips, and insider tips.

I have been to Lisbon three times, in summer, fall, and winter, and spent four days in my most recent trip getting lost in its streets, climbing way too many hills, and of course, eating my weight in pastel de nata. Everything below is based on first-hand experience.

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Quick Picks for Lisbon

But if you’re short on time or just want the highlights before reading further, here are my quick picks for Lisbon.

• Best view: Miradouro da Senhora do Monte (less crowded than the others and stunning at sunset).
• Must-see attractions: Praça do Comércio, Santa Justa Lift, Belém, Castelo de São Jorge.
• Best neighborhood to wander: Alfama (historic neighbourhood with narrow cobblestone streets). Take a walking tour to learn all about the history.
• Best foodie stop: Time Out Market for trying everything from seafood to modern takes on Portuguese classics.
• Best day trip: Sintra, hands down (you’ll find palaces and gardens).
• Museum you must visit: National Tile Museum, here you’ll learn all about the azulejos.
• Best Instagram spot: LX Factory with its street art walls and hip cafés.
• Unique experiences: Pastel de Nata baking class, and tile-painting workshop.

How Do I Get to Lisbon?

Lisbon is super accessible. The main airport, Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), is only about 20 minutes from the city center. Your options to get to the city center from Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS): Metro (red line, takes around 30 minutes, and costs €2.50), Uber (costs €15 to €20), or the Aerobus. The metro is the easiest and cheapest option for most travelers.

If you’re coming from nearby cities like Porto or Faro, trains are easy and scenic. I took the train from Porto, and it was great, with ocean views along the way. Definitely recommend booking your tickets in advance on Comboios de Portugal’s website for better prices.

👉 Pro tip: When traveling around Europe, refrain from purchasing train tickets at sites like Omnio or Rail Europe, as those usually add fees. You’ll get the best price by booking at the country’s main railway website.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Lisbon?

The best time to visit Lisbon is spring (April – June) or fall (September – October), you get fewer crowds, and comfortable weather for all the walking. Summer works if you don’t mind the heat, and winter is mild but cloudy.

I have been to Lisbon three times in different seasons, so here’s what to expect:

Summer is very lively and beautiful, but if you can’t stand the heat, I recommend visiting either in spring or fall. Lisbon can get scorching hot, and not all restaurants have AC. Besides, there’s a lot of walking (and hiking) involved, so you can expect to sweat A LOT.

Fall is still warm enough that you don’t need a jacket; however, it does get cloudy and rainy. I need the sun to be happy, so I wasn’t a big fan of the weather in late September. That being said, it was nice to walk around without sweating bullets, and it was incredibly less crowded than in July.

Lisbon is a great destination in the winter, as it doesn’t get as cold as in other European countries. However, it is cloudy and windy. If you like Christmas Markets and are on a budget, then this might be the ideal time for you to visit.

• Spring (April–June): Warm, sunny days without the summer crowds. Perfect for exploring neighborhoods and enjoying outdoor cafés.
• Summer (July–August): Hot temperatures, packed viewpoints, and busy trams. Great if you love lively energy, but expect higher prices and lots of tourists. I was there in July and I had a great experience, although it gets incredibly hot.
• Fall (September–October): Still warm but more relaxed. This is one of the best times to visit if you want good weather and fewer crowds.
• Winter (November–December): Cooler and quieter, though the city sparkles with Christmas lights. You’ll need a jacket, but it’s a cozy time to enjoy Lisbon without the crowds.

How Many Days to Stay in Lisbon

If you’re just hitting the highlights, two days in Lisbon is enough to see the main neighborhoods, ride Tram 28, and eat way too many pasteis de nata. But if you want to add in a day trip (like Sintra or Cascais) and enjoy Lisbon without rushing, I’d recommend at least three full days. Four to five days is ideal if you like to travel slower and soak up the city’s atmosphere.

That being said, I recommend you don’t try to cram everything into two days, as there is a lot to see and do in Lisbon.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Lisbon

Lisbon has a bunch of cute neighborhoods—each with its own vibe. The city is relatively big and hilly, so choosing the right base can save you a lot of walking (and tram rides).

I usually recommend staying in Baixa or Chiado for first-timers, as it’s walkable to most sights, and you can still hop on a tram or tuk-tuk when your legs need a break.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most popular areas:

• Baixa: This area is considered the city center. It is flat and close to the big squares, like Praça do Comércio and Rossio. Perfect if it’s your first time in Lisbon, as it is close to everything.
  • Hotels we recommend:
    • Budget: Browns Boutique Hotel
    • Mid-range: Lisboa Prata Boutique Hotel
    • Luxury: Convent Square Lisbon
• Alfama: The most charming (and oldest) part of the city. Picture tiny cobblestone alleys and colorful laundry strung between buildings. Just know you’ll be climbing hills.
  • Hotels we recommend:
    • Budget: Lisbon Lounge Suites
    • Mid-range: Pousada Alfama
    • Luxury: Santiago de Alfama Boutique Hotel
• Chiado: Right next to Baixa, this area is a little more elegant and historic, with theaters, cafés, and shopping streets.
  • Hotels we recommend:
    • Budget: Boutique Chiado Suites
    • Mid-range: Le Consulat
    • Luxury: Bairro Alto Hotel
• Marquês de Pombal / Avenida da Liberdade: A modern and residential area. Here you’ll find Lisbon’s luxury shopping street. It’s a bit farther from the city center, but still within a 20-minute walk. And the metro is right there. Perfect if you want central but calmer. This is where we stayed.
  • Hotels we recommend:
    • Budget: Room Select Libertade
    • Mid-range: Hotel Marques de Pombal
    • Luxury: Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa

Where We Stayed

We ended up staying just outside the city center because we wanted a more comfortable hotel at a better price. To be fair, booking only a month ahead and in July (peak season) didn’t help. We chose Hotel Marquês de Pombal, right on Avenida da Liberdade, and I actually loved the area. It feels more residential and quiet, with more space, meaning our hotel room was surprisingly spacious by Lisbon standards.

Avenida da Liberdade is lined with luxury shops, but you’ll also find Zara, smaller boutiques, cafés, and plenty of restaurants. It’s about a 20-minute walk to the city center, and since you pass viewpoints and landmarks along the way, it never feels far. And it only takes 30 minutes to get to the Tangus River.

If you’re into shopping, the Amoreiras Shopping Center is just a 10-minute walk from Praça Marquês de Pombal. Staying here gave us a chance to see more than just the touristy areas, and I’d definitely recommend it if you want a comfortable hotel without overpaying.

Lisbon Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip

A few things to keep in mind before you go:

• Lisbon is built on hills: Like, legit hills. Bring comfy shoes (you’ll thank me later). I swear by the Roger sneakers from On Cloud. I walked 20,000 steps daily, and my feet never hurt.
• Take the public transport: The metro, buses, and especially trams make it easy to get around. A 24-hour public transport pass is usually the best deal if you plan on moving around a lot.
• Carry some cash: Some smaller spots still prefer it.
• Start your days early: Especially for popular viewpoints or bakeries, as things can fill up fast.
• Eat seafood: Portugal is known for its delicious seafood, and you’ll find it everywhere. Try bacalhau à brás (a cod dish), grilled sardines, and of course, pastel de nata.
• Cafés: Coffee culture here is big. Order a “bica” (espresso) like the locals instead of asking for an Americano.
• Use sunscreen: Lisbon gets a lot of sunshine. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, even outside of summer.
• Bring an outlet adapter & power bank: This is my favorite adapter; you get two for less than $15 and can charge multiple devices simultaneously. The INUI power bank is the one I always travel with. It charges my phone up to 3 times, and it is slim and lightweight.

48 Best Things to Do in Lisbon

Whether you’re here for history, food, or just the amazing views, you’ll want to add all of these activities to your Lisbon itinerary. From iconic viewpoints to the best day trips, these are the best things to do in Lisbon that’ll make your trip unforgettable.

Ride Tram 28 Through the City

Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also iconic. Tram 28 goes through some of the city’s prettiest neighborhoods, from Graça to Baixa, giving you a front-row seat to Lisbon’s charm. You could also just ride any tram for the experience.

My advice? Go early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds.

Explore the Streets of Alfama

Alfama is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, and honestly, one of the best ways to experience the city is to get lost here. Picture narrow cobblestone alleys, colorful tiled houses, laundry drying on balconies, and the sound of fado music spilling out of little taverns.

This best of Lisbon walking tour takes you through Rossio, Chiado, and Alfama with a local guide who actually explains the history behind the places you’d probably just snap a photo of. It’s a great way to learn more about Lisbon if it’s your first time in the city.

Visit the Carmo Convent Ruins

The Carmo Convent is one of the most unique sights in Lisbon. Destroyed during the 1755 earthquake, the Gothic church was never fully rebuilt, so today you’ll walk through arches open to the sky. Inside, you’ll also find the Carmo Archaeological Museum, which houses everything from medieval artifacts to what’s considered the oldest known writing in Portugal.

Browse the Feira da Ladra Flea Market

Lisbon’s most famous flea market happens twice a week. You’ll find antiques, vintage clothes, handmade crafts, and a lot of random treasures. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s fun to wander.

Visit the National Pantheon

The National Pantheon is one of Lisbon’s most impressive buildings, with a massive white dome that you can spot from all over the city. Inside, you’ll find the tombs of some of Portugal’s most important figures.

The real highlight, though, is climbing to the rooftop terrace, the views over Alfama and the Tagus River are absolutely worth the steps.

Try Authentic Portuguese Food

Portugal is heaven if you love seafood. Try bacalhau à brás (a cod dish), grilled sardines, and of course, pastel de nata. For a splurge, check out a Michelin-starred restaurant (Lisbon has quite a few), but honestly, some of the best meals you’ll have will be at little local spots.

Grilled sardines are a Portuguese staple, especially in summer. Find a little neighborhood tasca (casual restaurant) and order them with potatoes and salad — simple, fresh, and so good. Don’t be intimidated by how they look, as it is fairly easy to eat and full of flavor.

If you want to try the best of Portuguese food without stressing over where to go, I’d recommend joining a guided tasting. This Lisbon food and wine tour takes you to local spots you probably wouldn’t find on your own, with plenty of petiscos (Portuguese tapas), wine, and fun facts about the city along the way.

We recommend the restaurant Lisboa Tu e Eu. It is a small restaurant located on a hill, so some tables are slanted, which makes it a fun eating experience. We had the sardines and bacalhau à brás. I loved it, and I think it was my favorite meal of the whole trip.

Eat your Weight in Pastel de Nata

You cannot come to Lisbon and skip these. You’ll find Pastel de Nata everywhere. The original Pastéis de Belém bakery is worth the hype, as they’ve been baking them since 1837. But you need to go to Belém, which is a bit further away from the center.

My favorite Pastel de Nata place was Manteigaria. You’ll find plenty of stores throughout the city, and it was crispy, warm, and slightly caramelized on top. You can also see how they make them.

If you’re looking for a unique Portuguese experience, you can actually learn how to make Pastel de Nata yourself. This Pastel de Nata baking class teaches you the original recipe step by step (with drinks included), so you can recreate a little piece of Lisbon back home.

Explore Belém

Belém is such a cute neighborhood with plenty of tourist attractions. You’ll find the Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the stunning Jerónimos Monastery all within walking distance. Don’t miss grabbing a pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém, they’ve been making them since 1837.

This is also where you can take a photo with the big “Lisboa” sign. You’ll find it right in front of the Belém Tower.

There are lots of things to see in Belém, so I recommend joining a guided experience. This Belém walking tour includes Jerónimos Monastery tickets and takes you through the main landmarks without the stress of figuring it all out on your own.

And if walking isn’t your thing (or you are just tired from all the hills), a tuk-tuk tour is such a fun way to see Belém. This private tuk-tuk tour even picks you up from your hotel, so you can roll right into sightseeing without the hassle.

🚨 When we were in Lisbon, the Belém Tower was being restored, so we were unable to appreciate it. However, it will reopen in April, 2026.

Visit Jerónimos Monastery in Belém

This UNESCO World Heritage site is jaw-dropping. The Gothic architecture is insanely detailed, and the cloisters are some of the prettiest in Europe. Buy your Jerónimos Monastery ticket in advance so you don’t waste time standing in line.

Snap Photos at Belém Tower

Sitting right on the river, this tower once protected Lisbon’s harbor. It’s smaller than you might expect, but still worth visiting, especially at golden hour when the light hits just right.

However, keep in mind that if you’re visiting before April 2026, you might find it to be under restoration. This was my experience back in June. There are still plenty of things to see in Belém, so don’t let this deter you from visiting.

@ssofiasolis to eat pastel de natas we go 🫡 #lisbon #belemtower #lisbontravelguide #lisbonportugal #lisbonguide #eurosummer ♬ original sound – will bottone

Check Out the Monument to the Discoveries

Another thing to check out in Belém is the Monument to the Discoveries.

Lisbon has a rich history tied to exploration, and this monument pays tribute to that. You can climb to the top for sweeping views of Belém and the Tagus River. Even if you skip going inside, the size of it is impressive.

Visit the Best Viewpoints in Lisbon (Miradouros)

Lisbon is built on seven hills, which means your legs will get a workout, but you’ll also be rewarded with some of the best views. The city is full of miradouros (viewpoints), and honestly, half the fun is just stopping at one, admiring the view, and taking lots of photos.

Here are my favorites:

Miradouro das Portas do Sol

Right next to Santa Luzia, this spot is busier but still stunning. It’s one of those views that just screams “Lisbon postcard.”

Miradouro de Santa Luzia

This is one of Lisbon’s most Instagrammable viewpoints with tiled walls, bougainvillea, and sweeping views over Alfama. It’s the perfect spot to stop with a coffee or drink and just take it all in.

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

This is my favorite viewpoint in the city. This viewpoint sits right above Alfama and overlooks the colorful rooftops, the Tagus River, and the dome of the National Pantheon.

You’ll walk uphill and encounter a lot of stairs. This was probably the most intense hike we did to get to a viewpoint. But the views were so worth it. In my opinion, this is the viewpoint where you’ll get the best views of Lisbon, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.

A photo of all the stairs we climbed to get there.

Miradouro de São Vicente

If you happen to be there on a Tuesday or Saturday morning, the Feira da Ladra flea market is right next door — so you can pair treasure hunting with some of the best city views.

Miradouro da Graça

Also known as Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen viewpoint, this one comes with a kiosk bar, so you can sip a cold drink while looking out over the city.

Visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)

The Lisbon Cathedral, or Sé, is the city’s oldest church, and it’s been standing since the 12th century. From the outside, it looks more like a fortress than a cathedral, with two massive towers and thick stone walls. Step inside and you’ll find beautiful Gothic arches, quiet chapels, and a cloister with archaeological ruins. It’s right in Alfama, so you can easily pop in while wandering the neighborhood.

Take a Food & Wine Tour

If you’re not sure where to start with Portuguese food, a guided tour is the way to go. You’ll try everything from petiscos (Portuguese tapas) to wines you might never order on your own. Plus, it’s a fun way to meet locals and fellow travelers.

If you’re mostly interested in the wine part (no judgment), there are plenty of wine tours and some of them also include a Fado show.

Check Out LX Factory

If Alfama is all about history, LX Factory is Lisbon’s artsy, modern side. It’s a super cool complex built in an old industrial area, filled with cafés, street art, and vintage shops, rooftop bars, and the prettiest bookstores ever (Ler Devagar). It’s also one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city.

Spot the Oldest Traffic Sign in the World

Lisbon has some seriously old history. On Rua do Salvador in Alfama, you’ll find what’s believed to be the oldest traffic sign in the world, dating back to 1686. It is small but was cool to see.

Eat Your Way Through Time Out Market

This massive food hall is foodie heaven. You’ll find everything from traditional Portuguese dishes to trendy new food stalls, all under one roof. It’s great if you’re traveling with people who can never agree on where to eat (guilty). And also perfect for trying out new dishes and bites.

Snap a Pic on Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo

This is the street with the famous yellow tram and steep incline. It’s insanely photogenic and right by Time Out Market, so it’s worth the stop.

Walk Along the Tagus River

The promenade between Cais do Sodré and Belém is peaceful and scenic. Perfect for a golden hour stroll or renting a scooter.

Take a River Cruise on the Tagus

Seeing Lisbon from the water is a completely different vibe. Go for a sunset sailing cruise and watch the city light up while sipping a glass of wine. It’s one of those experiences that make your vacation extra special.

Explore the Pink Street

It’s one of the most photographed spots in Lisbon. There are tons of bars and clubs here if you’re in the mood to go out.

We walked past it briefly, and I honestly didn’t find it that pretty. So, I’d recommend to visit it if you have the time, but don’t prioritize it.

Visit the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology)

The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology is worth a visit even if you don’t go inside. The building itself looks like a futuristic wave right on the riverfront, and it’s one of Lisbon’s coolest architectural spots.

Go Tile-Spotting

Azulejos (those gorgeous blue and white tiles) are everywhere. Some of the best spots are around Alfama and the National Tile Museum.

Visit the National Tile Museum

Most European cities have an art museum, but Lisbon takes it up a notch with an entire museum dedicated to tiles. It is such a unique museum, and visiting it is a must. The collection takes you through the history of Portuguese tiles from the 15th century all the way to modern times, with some massive panels that are gorgeous in person.

It’s not just tiles either; inside, you’ll also find a stunning old church that makes the visit even more worth it. The museum is a bit off the beaten path and surprisingly quiet, which is a nice change of pace from Lisbon’s busier attractions.

When we visited in peak season, we had no problem buying tickets at the door, and it wasn’t crowded at all. Just note that the church closes earlier in the afternoon (around 2 pm when we went), so try to plan for the morning. Here are the National Tile Museum entry tickets.

Soon after I left Lisbon, I found this tile-painting workshop and wish I could go back in time and take it! It lets you design and paint your own tile in an art gallery, so you leave with a unique Lisbon souvenir you created yourself.

Climb up to Castelo de São Jorge

The castle sits on one of Lisbon’s hills and comes with some of the best views of the city. You can walk along the walls, wander the gardens, and spot peacocks strutting around like they own the place. It’s a bit of a climb, but so worth it.

If you’re visiting Lisbon soon, you’ll love my upcoming guides to Madrid and Paris. Join below so you don’t miss them!

Take a Boat Cruise at Sunset

There’s something magical about seeing Lisbon from the water. I did a sailboat cruise with wine and snacks—it was such a peaceful way to end the day.

Sip Ginjinha

Ginjiha is a sweet cherry liqueur, and it’s Lisbon’s unofficial drink. You’ll find little shops selling it all over the city. It’s served in tiny cups, and sometimes even inside chocolate cups for extra sweetness. It’s very strong, but fun to try.

Take the Santa Justa Lift

This iron elevator looks like it belongs in Paris and connects downtown Lisbon with the Carmo area. It’s a quick ride, but the views from the top are gorgeous.

If you don’t want to pay for the lift, or want to avoid the crowds, you can actually walk around the back to reach the same viewpoint. And you can get another Pastel de Nata with the euros you just saved!

Visit the Gulbenkian Museum

This museum houses one of the best private art collections in Europe. It’s quieter than other attractions and a nice way to slow down if you need a break from Lisbon’s busy streets.

Go Vintage Shopping in Bairro Alto

If you love a good thrift find, there are a bunch of vintage stores tucked into the Bairro Alto neighborhood. Lots of cute cafés nearby too.

Take a Day Trip to Sintra

Sintra is simply magical, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site has palaces, tons of nature, and it is a perfect day trip from Lisbon. It is located just 40 minutes from Lisbon by train, and there are multiple trains every single day.

The main attraction is Pena Palace, a colorful castle perched on a hilltop with insane views over the whole region. It is honestly so different from all the European castles I have seen before.

Then there’s Quinta da Regaleira, a Gothic-style mansion with underground tunnels, gardens, and the famous Initiation Well that looks like something out of a fantasy novel. It is honestly gorgeous and I felt like I was in an enchanted forest while visiting the Initiation Well. There are lots of steps involved, but it was so worth it.

You could also check out the Moorish Castle if you’re into history, or simply wander through the historic center for pastries and coffee.

If you’re visiting on your own, you’ll want to book the tickets to Pena Palace in advance, as they tend to sell out. Also, get there first thing in the morning, because it gets crowded. We got there around 10:30 am and there were so many people already.

From the train station, you’ll take a taxi or Uber to get to the Pena Palace. Just a heads up that because of how hilly it is, a lot of taxis drop off passengers there but don’t want to pick them up. So, it can be a bit tricky to get an Uber from the Pena Palace back to the city center.

That is what happened to us, so we decided to walk to the Quinta da Regaleira. According to Google Maps, it was a 30-minute walk. However, what we didn’t know was that it was more of an intense hike with steep steps. My 60-year-old mom wanted to kill us, and while it took us over an hour to get to our final destination, we got there safe and sound!

The moral of the story is that unless you want to do an intense hike, wait for a tuk-tuk, arrange a pickup, or simply take a tour to Sintra.

If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of trains, taxis, or unexpected hikes (learn from my mistake!), I’d recommend taking a guided tour instead. This Sintra day trip includes entry to both Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, so you can see the highlights stress-free while someone else handles all the logistics.

People-watch at Praça do Comércio

Praça do Comércio is Lisbon’s main square. It is right by the river, and it is always buzzing with energy. Grab a coffee or lunch at one of the surrounding cafés and just people-watch.

Sometimes they also have small festivals, and we were able to watch traditional Portuguese dances. So, it is totally worth it to stop by, take photos, and enjoy what you might find.

Walk down Rua Augusta

This pedestrian street runs through downtown Lisbon and ends at the Arco da Rua Augusta. It is lined with shops, street performers, and a lot of restaurants. If you don’t know where to grab lunch or dinner, you’ll find some great restaurants along this area.

Get Brunch in Principe Real

This neighborhood is full of trendy spots. I loved Fauna & Flora for a cozy brunch and the cutest decor.

Listen to Fado Music Live

Fado is Portugal’s traditional music. It is emotional, nostalgic, and you really feel it when you hear it live. Go to a small bar in Alfama or make a reservation at Clube de Fado for a more traditional experience. It’s soulful, a little sad, but unforgettable.

You also have the option to purchase a ticket for a fado show. There are plenty of options depending on the ambiance, and if you’d like dinner or drinks.

I’d lean toward booking an actual fado show instead of just going to a restaurant that throws in a “free” performance. Most of the places we came across were tiny, and the music felt more like background noise than a real experience. Unless you snag a table right up front, you probably won’t even see the musicians. It’s a fine budget-friendly option if you just want a taste, but if hearing fado is on your Lisbon bucket list, I’d definitely spend the extra and get tickets to a proper show.

Explore Mouraria

Mouraria is often overlooked, but it’s one of Lisbon’s most multicultural neighborhoods. It has great street art, diverse food options, and it’s where fado music first began.

Take a Tuk-Tuk tour

It’s touristy, yes—but it’s also fun and a good way to rest your legs while still seeing the sights.

Hop on the Bica Funicular

This little yellow funicular is adorable and takes you up one of the city’s steepest hills, but honestly most people just come for the classic photo of the tram chugging up the street. Grab a coffee after and watch it pass by again.

Spend the Afternoon in Cascais

If you’re looking to do a day trip from Lisbon and want to go to the beach, then you simply have to visit Cascais. It’s only about 30 minutes by train, and you’ll find palm-lined promenades, sandy beaches, and colorful old houses.

You can spend the afternoon swimming, wandering through the cobblestone streets, or grabbing fresh seafood right by the marina.

If you’ve got more time, walk along the coastal path to Boca do Inferno (a dramatic seaside cliff formation) for amazing ocean views.

We were in Lisbon only for a few days and we decided to do a day trip to Sintra. However, I had previously done research on Cascais and wish I could’ve visited.

If you’d rather not choose between Cascais and Sintra, there are tours that cover both in one day. This Sintra, Cabo da Roca & Cascais tour takes you to the fairytale palaces of Sintra, the cliffs of Cabo da Roca, and still leaves time to explore Cascais. Which honestly sounds like the dream day trip from Lisbon. This way you’ll see it all and it’s perfect if you aren’t planning to return to Lisbon, after all there is so much to see in the world.

Visit Cabo da Roca

About 40 minutes from Lisbon, Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe. The cliffs are dramatic, the ocean views are endless, and it feels like standing at the edge of the world.

Check out Mercado de Campo de Ourique

A smaller, more local-feeling version of Time Out Market. Great food, fewer tourists.

Hit the Beaches of Costa da Caparica

If you want a local beach day, head to Costa da Caparica. It’s huge, sandy, and way less touristy than Cascais. In summer, beach bars line the shore and it’s the perfect place to relax.

Watch the Sunset from Park Bar

It’s literally a rooftop bar on top of a parking garage, and somehow it’s one of the best spots for a chill drink with a view.

End the Day with Rooftop Drinks

Lisbon’s rooftops are the best place to wind down after a day of exploring. Order a cocktail, watch the city turn golden, and toast to surviving all the hills.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lisbon