Venture to the charming capital city of Portugal. Lisbon is a beautiful city made up of pastel-coloured houses, vintage trams and hilltop views. There are so many things to do in Lisbon that you’re guaranteed to have incredible stories, for all who want to hear about your adventure in this lovely destination.
Take a look at our guide on some of the best things to do in Lisbon to get an authentic experience of the city.
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1. Stroll through Alfama
Alfama is a must-visit for all first-time travellers to Lisbon. The neighbourhood has narrow cobblestoned streets, white chapels and lovely areas shaded by orange trees. Get lost in the oldest part of the city and discover all it has to offer. You’ll love the winding streets and alleys. There are plenty of al fresco cafés where you can rest your feet and quench your thirst.
2. Go antique shopping at Feira da Ladra
Lisbon’s flea market, Feira da Ladra, goes as far back as the 17th century. Strolling through and shopping at Feira da Ladra is a fun thing to do in Lisbon! You’ll come across crafts, second-hand items and antiques. The market is open every Tuesday and Saturday. For a truly authentic experience of the city, a stop at Feira da Ladra is a rewarding experience.
3. Cruise the Tagus
The Tagus is the longest river in the Iberian Peninsula! You’ll get to see lovely views of the historical centre and the 25 de Abril Bridge. Watch the sunset over the city, sit back and relax on the cruise as you breathe in the fresh air.
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4. Visit the Lisbon Oceanarium
Located in the Parque das Nações, the Lisbon Oceanarium is the second-largest indoor aquarium in Europe. This is an exciting, family-friendly thing to do in Lisbon, especially for those who are intrigued by marine life. The oceanarium sees over one million visitors each year. During your exploration, you will see sharks, moray eels and penguins, amongst other breathtaking marine life. There are two floors that rotate around a huge and central aquarium. The Oceanarium can only be accessed by crossing a footbridge.
5. Take a ride on the cable car in Parque das Nações
Frequenting the skyline, the cable car departs from the Oceanarium and the Old Vasco da Gama tower. Hop on the cable car and take in the beautiful views of the Tagus and Vasco da Gama bridge. Use the opportunity to capture remarkable photos from a bird’s eye view.
6. Eat the famous pasteis de nata
The pasteis de nata is Portugal’s famous egg-custard tart. Eating these delicious tarts is one of the mandatory things to do in Lisbon. You’ll find it in bakeries and cafés, and well, practically everywhere in the city. It is best enjoyed with a bica (a Portuguese espresso).
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7. Visit the various museums
Get into the cultural heritage of Portugal at the many brilliant museums in the city. The museums are as beautiful as they are insightful and filled with the country’s history. Get lost in the wonderful displays and cultural knowledge that awaits. Here are a few museums you should consider visiting:
Museu Berado – located in the Centro Cultural de Belém, this museum showcases contemporary and modern paintings and installations. You can see works by Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol and Maria Helena Vieira da Silva.
Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) – this great museum is a space where visual arts, urban affairs, science and technology meet. It is located on the River Tejo’s edge nearby Belem.
Museu do Fado – Fado is considered the soul of Portuguese music. Museu do Fado is where you’ll see how the origins of fado in Alfama got international recognition. Listen to the wonderful sounds of Portuguese guitars and other unique instruments.
8. Ride a bike down the waterfront
Get to know the city on a relaxed bike ride. Rent a bike and go for a ride along the scenic Tagus River Waterfront Bike Lane. You’ll get to see pleasant views of the ocean in front of you while you drive past the lively harbour.
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9. Stroll through the gardens
For a break from the city noise and crowds of people, visit the grand Palace of the Marquises of Fronteira. This beautiful piece of architecture is where you will find the elegant palace garden. You’ll get to admire the spectacularly cut hedges, elegant statues and beautiful tiled walls.
10. Explore the coastal resort of Cascais
Just west of Lisbon, Cascais is where you can enjoy a lovely beach getaway. The pretty resort town is home to peaceful coves, cobbled streets and lavish mansions. Cascais was the ideal destination of choice, where the Portuguese nobility would head to for a summer retreat. It is the perfect thing to do for a day trip from Lisbon. Cascais has something for everyone, including beaches, boutiques, restaurants and the breathtaking Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
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11. Check out the fado scene
What better way to discover Lisbon than through the indigenous music of the city. Enjoy the poetic sounds of fado at many of Lisbon’s restaurants, bars and cafés. Go for a lovely dinner or drinks while enjoying the pleasant sounds of the local’s favourite music. To locate a venue, simply follow the sounds beckoning from various establishments.
12. Go partying at night
In the 90s, Lisbon was listed as one of the biggest clubbing metropolises in Europe. Today, the clubbing scene is still thriving and worth experiencing for yourself. At night, Lisbon comes alive as locals and tourists make sure to embrace all of the city’s entertainment. There’s everything from international DJs to more exclusive events that will require reservations. Tons of fun is sure to be had with champagne as everyone is dressed to impress.
13. Watch football with the locals
The locals love football, it’s safe to say they’re obsessed. The sport is deeply rooted in the daily life of the Lisbonese. Talking about football is the quickest way to make friends with the locals. Head to a live game and support local teams such as Benfica, Sporting Clube de Portugal and Belenenses. Check out the city’s incredible stadiums, including Estádio do Dragão, Estádio da Luz and Estádio José Alvalade XXI.
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14. See the street art
One of the best contemporary-cultural things to do in Lisbon is to walk around the city and see the eye-popping street art. You can see the city’s urban renewal through the artistic self-expression captured on the walls. To get to see tons of street art in various parts of the city, get a local guide to show you around!
15. Go wine tasting
Once in Lisbon, you have to plan a wine tasting expedition. The city is close to three different regions (Lisboa, Setubal and Alentejo) that are all within a few hours drive. Take in the history and techniques of the celebrated wines. You’ll also get to enjoy delicious food on your wine tour.
A trip to Lisbon will excite all your senses. With this guide on diverse things to do in Lisbon, you’ll have an incredible holiday with many stories to tell your friends and family. Sign up to our newsletter and be the first to know about flights and deals to Lisbon and other incredible destinations.
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