Lisbon

🇵🇹 Portugal
The Cradle of History and Culture on the Edge of Europe

Lisbon - Vacation Briefing

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. This charming city sits on the edge of Europe, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern-day living. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of the historic Alfama district, sample delicious Portuguese cuisine, and marvel at the intricate details of the famous Jeronimos Monastery. With its warm climate and friendly locals, Lisbon is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Popular Sights in Lisbon

Things to do during your Lisbon vacation

Welcome to Lisbon! This vibrant and historic city offers a wide range of activities for every traveler. From exploring ancient landmarks to indulging in delicious local cuisine, Lisbon has something for everyone.

  • Belem Tower: Visit this iconic medieval tower located on the Tagus River, which was built to defend the city.
  • Jerónimos Monastery: Explore this stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its breathtaking architecture.
  • Alfama District: Get lost in the narrow streets of Alfama, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, and soak up its authentic charm.
  • Elevador de Santa Justa: Take a ride on this impressive elevator and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top.
  • Rua Augusta: Stroll down this bustling street filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers.
  • Bairro Alto: Experience Lisbon's famous nightlife in this lively neighborhood, known for its bars and music venues.
  • Tile Museum: Discover the rich history of Portuguese tiles and admire beautiful tilework from different periods.
  • Pastel de Belém: Indulge in the iconic Portuguese custard tart at the original Pastéis de Belém bakery.
  • Tram 28: Take a nostalgic tram ride on one of Lisbon's famous historic trams and enjoy the scenic route.
  • LX Factory: Visit this creative hub housed in an old industrial complex, featuring trendy shops, cafes, and art galleries.
  • Feira da Ladra: Explore this fascinating flea market in Alfama, where you can find antiques, second-hand items, and unique souvenirs.

Why you should visit Lisbon

Overall
7.8

Lisbon, Portugal is a highly desirable destination with a lot to offer.

Safety
7

Lisbon is generally a safe city, but visitors should be cautious of petty theft and pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Culture
9

Lisbon is rich in culture and history, with beautiful architecture, fascinating museums, and delicious cuisine.

Nightlife
9

Lisbon has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues to explore.

Adventure
6

While Lisbon offers some adventure activities like surfing and hiking nearby, it may not be the top choice for extreme adventure seekers.

Relaxation
8

Lisbon offers a relaxed atmosphere with its charming neighborhoods, coastal areas, and scenic viewpoints.

Best time to visit Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds during spring and fall, making them the best times to visit.

Jan
Mild weather, but crowded
9°C - 15°C
Feb
Mild weather, fewer crowds
9°C - 16°C
Mar
Ideal weather, fewer crowds
11°C - 18°C
Apr
Comfortable weather, fewer crowds
12°C - 20°C
May
Mild weather, fewer crowds
14°C - 22°C
Jun
Warm weather, increasing crowds
17°C - 25°C
Jul
Warm weather, peak season
19°C - 28°C
Aug
Warm weather, peak season
19°C - 28°C
Sep
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
17°C - 26°C
Oct
Mild weather, fewer crowds
14°C - 22°C
Nov
Cool weather, fewer crowds
11°C - 18°C
Dec
Mild weather, festive season
9°C - 16°C

A guide To your first day of Lisbon vacation

morning

  • Start your day with a visit to the historic neighborhood of Alfama. Get lost in its narrow streets, admire the colorful tiled buildings, and visit the impressive Lisbon Cathedral.
  • Take a tram ride up to the viewpoints of Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or Miradouro da Graca for stunning panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River.

afternoon

  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of LX Factory, known for its art galleries, boutiques, and unique shops. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the trendy restaurants or cafés.
  • Visit the iconic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Don't forget to try the famous Pastel de Belém pastry!

evening

  • Take a sunset cruise along the Tagus River and admire the cityscape as the sun sets over Lisbon. Enjoy a glass of Port wine or a traditional ginjinha, a cherry liqueur.
  • Indulge in a traditional Portuguese dinner at a local tasca or restaurant. Try dishes like bacalhau à brás (codfish) or grilled sardines, accompanied by a glass of Vinho Verde.

night

  • Experience Lisbon's vibrant nightlife at Bairro Alto, known for its lively bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Enjoy a night of dancing and socializing with locals and fellow travelers.
  • Take a late-night stroll along the Rua Augusta, a pedestrian street lined with shops and restaurants, illuminated by beautiful lights and bustling with activity.

How to get to Lisbon

By Plane

Lisbon Airport (LIS) is the main international airport in Portugal, offering frequent flights from major destinations worldwide. With its modern facilities and efficient services, travelers can easily navigate the airport. The airport is conveniently located just a short distance from the city center, with various transportation options available for a seamless journey.

By other means

Lisbon is well-served by public transport, particularly trains, buses, and ferries. The city's train station, Santa Apolonia, allows for easy access to other Portuguese cities. Buses are a convenient mode of transportation within Lisbon and surrounding areas, providing extensive coverage. Additionally, Lisbon benefits from its strategic position on the Tagus River, making ferries a scenic and enjoyable option to explore nearby destinations.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!

Flights

Accommodation

Video Reviews of Lisbon

Best for travelers who are ...

History and culture enthusiasts, foodies, and those looking for a unique travel experience

How long to stay in Lisbon?

3-5 days to fully explore the city and surrounding areas

Nearby

If you're already in Lisbon, Portugal you might want to consider visiting these nearby destinations: