Quick answer: the must-sees in Lisbon are Alfama and São Jorge Castle, a ride on Tram 28, Belém (Jerónimos Monastery €18, Belém Tower, pastéis de nata), the miradouros (free viewpoints), Time Out Market and LX Factory, a fado night, and a day trip to Sintra. A 24-hour transport pass costs €7.25.
Lisbon rewards slow exploring: a coffee on a viewpoint, a tram ride up a hill, a long seafood lunch. This list of the 20 best things to do in Lisbon gives 2026 prices and practical tips. Monument prices are from Art Visit Guide.
Historic Lisbon
- Alfama — the oldest district, best explored by getting lost in its lanes.
- São Jorge Castle — Moorish castle walls with sweeping views over the city.
- Lisbon Cathedral (Sé) — a 12th-century fortress-church.
- Praça do Comércio and Rua Augusta Arch — the grand riverside square; climb the arch for the view.
- Santa Justa Lift — a neo-Gothic iron lift between Baixa and Chiado.
- Tram 28 — through Graça, Alfama and Chiado; €3.30 on board or €1.90 with a Navegante card. Full guide.
Belém
- Jerónimos Monastery — a Manueline masterpiece; €18 for the cloister, church free. Closed Mondays.
- Belém Tower — the 16th-century riverside fortress, reopened in May 2026 with timed entry.
- Padrão dos Descobrimentos — the Monument to the Discoveries, with a rooftop view.
- Pastéis de Belém — the original custard tarts since 1837; the queue moves fast, or eat inside.
- MAAT — a striking riverside museum of art, architecture and technology with a walkable roof.
Views and neighbourhoods
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte — the highest viewpoint, best at sunset.
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol — tiled terraces over Alfama’s roofs.
- Bairro Alto and Chiado — cafés by day, bars at night.
- LX Factory — a former factory complex with shops, restaurants and a famous bookshop.
- National Tile Museum — five centuries of azulejos in a former convent.
Food, music and day trips
- Time Out Market — Lisbon’s best chefs under one roof at Cais do Sodré.
- A fado night — Portugal’s soulful music in Alfama or Bairro Alto; book a table at a fado house.
- Sintra — Pena Palace (€20) and Quinta da Regaleira, 40 minutes by train. Day-trip guide.
- Cascais — a seaside town 40 minutes by train from Cais do Sodré, with beaches and a coastal walk.
Compare Lisbon tours, fado nights and food tours.
How much things cost (2026)
| Sight | Price |
|---|---|
| Jerónimos Monastery (cloister) | €18 (church free) |
| Pena Palace + park (Sintra) | €20 |
| Quinta da Regaleira (Sintra) | €20 |
| Tram 28 (on board / Navegante) | €3.30 / €1.90 |
| 24-hour Carris/Metro pass | €7.25 |
| Lisboa Card | €31 (24h), €51 (48h), €62 (72h) |
Tips
- Many museums close on Mondays — plan Belém for another day.
- The Lisboa Card pays off if you combine several paid sights with transport.
- Viewpoints are free and best at sunset.
- Wear comfortable shoes with grip.
- Budget for the tourist tax.
More Lisbon guides
- Lisbon itinerary
- Where to stay in Lisbon
- Sintra day trip from Lisbon
- Tram 28 guide
- Lisbon airport to city centre
- Best time to visit Lisbon
- Lisbon tourist tax
- Lisbon travel guide
FAQ: Things to do in Lisbon
What should you not miss in Lisbon?
Alfama and the castle, Tram 28, Belém with Jerónimos Monastery and pastéis de nata, the viewpoints and a day in Sintra.
How many days do you need in Lisbon?
Three days for Lisbon, plus one for Sintra. See our Lisbon itinerary.
What is free in Lisbon?
The miradouros, Alfama’s streets, Praça do Comércio, Jerónimos’ church and LX Factory.
Is the Lisboa Card worth it?
Only if you visit several paid sights and use transport a lot; check the included sights first.
Is Jerónimos Monastery open on Mondays?
No, the cloister is closed on Mondays.
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