Lisbon, the stunning coastal capital of Portugal, is a city bursting with rich culture, incredible architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.
As a top European tourist destination, Lisbon offers plenty of exciting activities.
From exploring historical landmarks to indulging in delicious cuisine, this beautiful city has something for everyone.
If you want to enjoy Lisbon’s delicious food and wine, clubs that stay open late into the night, or a varied range of entertainment, stay with us in this article to let you know the best things to do in Lisbon.
10 Things to Do in Lisbon That You’ll Never Forget: From hiking to the top of the Jerónimos Monastery to exploring the colorful Alfama district, these are the experiences that will stay with you long after your trip is over.
+ Top 5 things to do in Lisbon
Lisbon is the best destination to walk cobblestone alleyways and eat native delicacies. This city maintains a relaxed atmosphere.
Restaurants would never evict you to make room for another table, instead encouraging you to eat more if you are hungry later.
The museums will entice you to remain for hours. You’ll want to devour three pastel de natas in a row.
The Portuguese capital is one of our favorites not just for its rich culture, excellent restaurants, and fantastic pubs but also because it’s so beautiful to walk around. The architecture, the views!
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Nonetheless, here are the top 32 things to do in Lisbon. What exactly are you waiting for?
To help you make the most of your time in the city, we have compiled a list of the top 5 best things to do in Lisbon.
1. Visit the historic neighborhood of Alfama.
When visiting Lisbon, a trip to the historic neighborhood of Alfama is a must. So the first thing to do in Lisbon is the Alfama.
This charming area is known for its winding cobblestone streets, colorful houses with laundry lines, and stunning city views.
The neighborhood is the oldest in Lisbon, and visitors can explore its narrow alleyways, discover hidden squares, and stumble upon traditional shops and restaurants serving delicious Portuguese cuisine.
In the heart of Alfama lies the impressive São Jorge Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the city.
Visitors can also enjoy live Fado music performances, a traditional Portuguese music genre, in the many intimate bars and restaurants dotted throughout the neighborhood.
A visit to Alfama offers a glimpse into Lisbon’s rich history and culture and is a highlight of any trip to the city.
2. Check out the Jerónimos Monastery
No visit to Lisbon would be complete without checking out the Jerónimos Monastery, the second thing to do in Lisbon, an impressive Gothic masterpiece in the historic Belém neighborhood.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 16th century and was a spiritual and cultural center for Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
The ornate architecture and intricate carvings are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Portuguese architects and artisans of the time.
Visitors can admire the stunning façade, explore the beautiful cloisters, and visit the tomb of the famed explorer Vasco da Gama.
3. Visit the São Jorge Castle
Perched atop one of Lisbon’s highest hills, the São Jorge Castle is a medieval fortress that offers stunning panoramic city views.
This historic landmark is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Lisbon.
The castle dated back to the 11th century and was a royal palace until the 16th century.
Visitors can explore the castle’s walls and towers, visit the archaeological site, and learn about its fascinating history in the on-site museum.
The São Jorge Castle also hosts cultural events, including concerts and exhibitions, throughout the year, making it an excellent destination for culture enthusiasts.
A visit to this iconic landmark highlights Lisbon’s things to do.
4. Ride the famous Tram 28
One of the most iconic experiences and best things to do in Lisbon is riding the famous Tram 28.
This historic tram line winds through the city’s narrow streets and steep hills, offering a unique and charming way to explore Lisbon’s neighborhoods.
Tram 28 passes through Lisbon’s most popular areas, including the historic Alfama neighborhood, the Baixa shopping district, and the scenic Graça Hill.
Tourists can hop on and off at various stops to explore the sights and sounds of the city at their own pace.
The Tram 28 is a practical mode of transportation and a cultural and historical experience that should be noticed when visiting Lisbon.
5. Visit the Museu Nacional do Azulejo
A visit to the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, or the National Tile Museum, is necessary for anyone interested in Portugal’s rich artistic heritage; that is the other thing to do in Lisbon.
This fascinating museum is dedicated to the history and artistry of the country’s iconic decorative tiles, azulejos.
The museum’s collection spans five centuries and includes various tiles, from simple blue and white designs to intricate, colorful murals.
Visitors can learn about the techniques and traditions of tile-making and see how azulejos have been used to decorate everything from churches and palaces to train stations and homes.
6. Take a day trip to Cascais.
For a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, a day trip to Cascais is a perfect option and one of the best things to do in Lisbon.
This picturesque seaside town is just a short train ride from Lisbon and offers beautiful beaches, charming streets, and a relaxed atmosphere.
People can stroll along the promenade, enjoy stunning ocean views, explore the town’s historic center with its beautiful architecture and lovely gardens, or relax on the sandy beaches.
Cascais is also an excellent base for exploring the nearby natural wonders, such as the rugged cliffs of Cabo da Roca or the scenic Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
A day trip to Cascais is an ideal way to experience the beauty and diversity of the Lisbon region.
7. Visit the Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian
The Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian is one of Lisbon’s premier cultural institutions and a must-visit for art lovers.
The foundation was established in 1956 by the Armenian businessman and philanthropist Calouste Gulbenkian. It housed a stunning art collection, including works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Monet.
The foundation also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and lectures.
Go shopping at the Mercado da Ribeira
8. We strongly recommend visiting the Mercado da Ribeira
to taste Lisbon’s bustling food and shopping scene.
This historic market, located on the waterfront in the Cais do Sodré neighborhood, has been a hub of activity for over a century.
Today, it’s a modern and vibrant space that houses a diverse selection of food stalls, bars, and shops.
The market is also famous for cultural events, including concerts and festivals.
The Mercado da Ribeira is a lively and authentic Lisbon experience that should be noticed.
From all explanations, shopping at Mercado da Ribeira is the best thing in Lisbon.
Final Thought
Lisbon is a city that offers a wealth of experiences and attractions for visitors to explore.
There are also many amazing things to do in Lisbon, and we discussed the 8 tops in this article.
Enjoy historic neighborhoods, landmarks, vibrant markets, and cultural institutions.
Whether you’re looking to delve into the city’s rich history, enjoy the local cuisine, or soak up the atmosphere, Lisbon has it all.
So why not book your trip today and discover what this fantastic city offers? What are you waiting for? Let Lisbon capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.
