9 Amazing things to do in Lisbon, Portugal
9 Amazing things to do in Lisbon
Lisbon is a gem with so much character from its iconic blue ceramic tile to its picturesque hillsides to the red rooftops embellishing the scenery. Portugal’s capital is surprisingly budget-friendly compared to other European cities. There is no shortage of world-class dining options, cafes, bakeries, coffee shops, and bars. Do not leave Lisbon without trying Pasteis de Nata (Portuguese custard tart). I might have had a dozen a day (well, I did happen to be five months pregnant while there:). Do yourself a favor and bring comfortable walking shoes because the hilly streets and cobbled stone can wreak havoc on your feet!
1. Take a tram to the Alfama neighborhood
You can get a feel for old Lisbon in this neighborhood. Alfama is positioned high on a hillside; old trams wind through the narrow cobbled streets. This area is alive with colorful tiled houses, grand architecture, and charming streets lined with shops and cafes.
Some points of interest in Alfama are Lisbon Cathedral, Sao Jorge Castle, Fado Museum or take in great views from Miradouro das Portas del Sol.
2. Visit Sao Jorge Castle
Situated atop Sao Jorge Hill, Lisbon’s highest point, is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. The castle once served as the royal palace during the reign of Afonso I of Portugal. If you choose to walk, wear comfortable shoes, as it is a solid uphill climb! You can also get to the castle by line 28 tram or by bus. Be prepared for incredible 360-degree views.
3. Santa Justa Lift
This lift was built in 1902 to conveniently take residents from the lower and centralized Baixa neighborhood to Bairro Alto. Since then, the lift has become a popular tourist attraction. You can get amazing views from the lift of the cities red-tiled roofs and Rossio Square in Baixa.
The Bairro Alto neighborhood is a great area to end your day with great restaurants and nightlife.
*Restaurant tip: Restaurante Carmo has excellent Portuguese cuisine, tapas, and a nicely equipped wine bar.
Views from Santa Justa Lift 
Rossio Square 
4. Convento de Carmo
Near Santa Justa, you’ll find Convento de Carmo. You can get spectacular views of the church from the top of the lift. The gothic church was destroyed by an earthquake in 1755. the church remains roofless and now serves as a museum.
5. Visit Pink Street
Situated in the trendy neighborhood of Cais Do Sodre, you’ll find Pink Street. Formerly Lisbon’s redlight district, this neglected area had a high crime rate. In 2011, it got a facelift, opening up to bars, restaurants, and music venues. It is now one of Lisbon’s hotspots for nightlife!
6. LX Factory
This former 1846 fabric production plant turned artsy hub in 2008 should not be missed! LX Factory offers a space of 50+ shops, cafes, restaurants and bars. This creative space is a cool artistic gem and also has amazing street art. It is definitely worth a few hours to a half-day visit.
7. Visit Belem neighborhood and Mosteiro dos Jeronimos
This 16th-century monastery is a UNESCO world heritage site. Its facade has gorgeous gothic architecture and the monastery overlooks the Tagus River. It now serves as a museum and public monument. A short walk will lead you to Belem tower. The tower was constructed between 1514 -1520 by the Portuguese architect and sculptor Francisco de Arruda. It was constructed on the Tagus River to defend Lisbon.
Restaurant tip: While in Belem, eat at Belem 2 a 8. We just happened to walk by at lunch time and decided to give it a try. So glad we did! Delicious, fresh seafood.
8. Eat pastries at Pasteis de Belem
While in Belem, you must visit Pasteis de Belem. The restaurant is large, with several rooms and decorated with blue Portuguese tiles. The bakery was built in 1837 and uses the secret recipes from Mosteiro dos Jernimos. You’ll likely find a long line for the restaurant, but it is probably for the to-go window. With ample seating inside, you shouldn’t have to wait long!
9. Take a day trip to Sintra.
Sintra is a resort town in the foothills of the Sintra mountains. Once a haven for Portugal’s royalty, it is now a popular tourist destination. The scenery is picturesque with forested hillsides dotted with colorful villas, castles and royal palaces. The most famous and dramatic palace is Pena. Its design is whimsical and colorful with elaborate tiles. It sits high on a hillside overlooking Sintra.
Getting to Sintra is easy from Lisbon. It takes roughly 40 minutes by train. The city center’s Rossio station has trains leaving for Sintra every 30 minutes.
Other helpful tips…..
Getting around Lisbon
Uber or taxis is one of the easiest ways to get around the city, if not by foot.
Lisbon also has public transportation consisting of buses, metro, tram, train and funiculars. You can purchase single-use tickets or get a refillable Viva Viagem card at the metro station if you will be there several days or more. You can also purchase a 24-hour card for about 6 Euros.
Lisbon’s neighborhood guide
Bairro Alto This lively neighborhood is a cultural hub and has a great bohemian vibe. It has a nice variety of restaurants, bars and boutiques. Part of the fun is to get lost in its winding and narrow cobblestone streets.
Alfama Lisbon’s oldest and perhaps most charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets, winding roads, cafes, shops, and colorful tiled houses. The neighborhood is also home to many historical sites.
Cais Do Sodre This hip and trendy neighborhood was once the city’s red-light district. It is now a hotspot for bars and nightlife.
Belem Situated by the River Tagus, this area has numerous landmarks, such as the Monastery and Tower of Belem. Though it’s a little less convenient, situated, outside of the city center, it offers a historic main street and many must-see sites and restaurants.
Chiado This neighborhood is in the historic center. It is the commercial and cultural district, known for luxury shopping and historic landmarks and museums. Chiado Square is a grand square with a beautifully tiled ground, adorned with cafes, restaurants and boutiques.
