Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, with its charming colorful trams, clanking up and down its narrow, hilly streets, stunning sunset vistas set on the Iberian Peninsula, colorful Azulejos tile, an art perfected here in the 16th century, history of maritime discovery, and laid-back atmosphere, is a top travel destination.

To help you quickly see its heart and soul, I’ve complied this list of the best things to see and do in Lisbon.

About Lisbon

Lisbon, founded by the Phoenicians in 1200 BC is the second-oldest European capital city after Athens. It even predates Rome and London by hundreds of years.

In the 15-17th century, Portugal was at the forefront of naval exploration, called the Age of Discovery. And Lisbon was where much of it originated. They accumulated wealth and knowledge, setting up colonies in South America, Africa, and Asia.

In the 18th century, Lisbon was virtually demolished by an earthquake. Today this coastal capital attracts visitors from around the world, exploring its quaint neighborhoods, stunning hilltop viewpoints, vibrant history, famous port wine, and haunting fado music.

Best Things To Do In Lisbon

Visit One of its Many ‘Miradoura’

The best way to get some perspective on Lisbon is to walk up to one of its many ‘miradoura’ or hilltop ‘lookouts’. Miradouro de Santa Luzia was my favorite, especially near sunset. It offers picturesque views of the Alfama district and the Tagus River.

More often than not, you’ll find talented musicians here playing for tourists, making it even more enchanting.

Higher up, Miradouro da Senhora do Monte provides a more expansive view of the city.

You can see 25th de Abril bridge in the distance, named in honor of the Carnation Revolution, which ended fascist rule here on April 25th, 1974. Castelo de San Gorge, another great viewpoint, is to the left, above.

Other amazing views include Miradouro de Graca and Amoreiras 360 Panoramic Viewpoint. All miradoura are free (except any tips you leave for musicians), however there is a small fee for the panoramic view at Amoreiras.

Castelo de San Gorge

This historic castle, sitting on the city’s highest hill, was the site of successive fortifications from the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors. It became Portuguese after the 12th century siege of Lisbon, serving as a Royal palace and military barracks. Today its ruins are a national monument and museum.

To get to Castelo de San Gorge, you can walk up Sao Jorge hill, take tram 28 or 12, bus, or taxi.

Lisbon’s Trams

London has its double decker buses, San Fransisco has its cable cars, and Lisbon has its trams. You’ll see, and hear, these super-cute trams everywhere. Although they’ve pretty much been taken over by tourists, they’re still one of the top things to do in Lisbon. Be prepared for long lines and crammed cars though.

Tram 28 is the classic tram route, running through the popular tourist districts of Alfama, Baixa, Grace, and Estrella. For more route options, see this Lisbon Tram Guide.

You can buy single ride tickets onboard, or a 24 hour pass at a metro station. See Lisbon by Tram for more detailed information.

Portuguese Azulejos Tile

Azulejos tile, an important part of Portugal’s history, is just about everywhere. The word comes from the Arabic word zellige, or az-zulay, meaning polished stone, which was common in the Iberian peninsula during the Moorsih, Middle Ages (but with geometric designs).

In the 15th century, King Manuel I had modern tiles art imported from Seville, Spain, for his Palace in Sintra, Portugal. It then gained popularity, being imported from Spain, Italy, and Holland, until mastered by Portuguese artists in the 16th century. They soon elevated the craft to an art, using it to tell stories, or note historical events.

Originally in yellows, blues, greens, and whites, the tile art became mostly blue and white during the Age of Discoveries, influenced by the porcelain of the Ming Dynasty. By the 18th century, no other country was creating as much tile, or in as much variety.

The tiles here are near Miradoura de Santa Luzia. They show scenes from Comercio Square and Harbor before the devastating 1755 earthquake and tsunami.

Comercio Square

Lisbon’s main square is located on the bank of the Targus River. This was the location of the Royal Palace Ribiera, before demolished by the earthquake. It was rebuilt as Comercio Sqaure (Square of Commerce) with grand 18th century architecture.

Once lined with government buildings, this area is now lined with restaurants with sunny patios.

Climb Arco Da Rua Augusta, the arch-like building here, for amazing views of the area.

The equestrian statue in the square represents King Jose I, who reigned during the rebuilding of the city.

The Story of the Carnation Revolution

Listen to Fado Music

Lisbon’s fado, a soulful, melancholic music, started in the early 19th century. Most commonly, it’s sung solo, accompanied by classical Portuguese guitar.

Although you can find it all over town, one of the more popular places to listen to Fado is Tasco do Chico. It’s best to make a reservation. They also don’t accept cards, so make sure to bring cash.

Portugal’s Calcada Walkways

As you walk through the city, remember to look down. The walkways, called Calçada, are works of art in themselves.

These walkways are all over Portugal, as well as territories once under Portuguese influence, like Mozambique and Brazil.

They actually shipped the stone to other territories, as the weight helped stabilize the boats, which otherwise would have shipped empty. Then they returned home full of exotic goods. Very clever!

Padrao de Descobrimentos

You can also visit the Mosteiro de Jeronimos, or Jeronimos Monastery and Torre be Belem, both of which are Unesco Heritage sites.

Want More of Portugal?

Lisbon is amazing, but there’s so much more to see in Portugal, with each city providing a different perspective on Portuguese life.

Cascais, a popular beachside resort, is an easy day trip from Lisbon. Aviero, dubbed the Venice of Portugal, is another great day trip. You can also visit Aviero and Obidos when traveling between Lisbon and Porto. 

I also highly recommend Porto as it’s not as touristy as Lisbon. It’s a great place to explore the varietals of Portugal’s port wine. And while you’re there, take a day trip to the Douro Valley. Here, you can take a cruise on the Douro river and see where the grapes for port are born.

If you have even more time, the cliff-lined beaches in the sunny Algarve region are a must. The beaches in Lagos and Sagres, are stunning!

Or, see my Portugal Travel Guide for all the top highlights, how to get around, safety, scams, logistics, and more to help you plan your trip.