Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest and most affordable capitals. Its hills give you amazing viewpoints (miradouros), and great beaches and Sintra’s palaces are a short train ride away. Plan three to five days.
Top things to do in Lisbon
- Alfama — the oldest district: narrow lanes, fado music and São Jorge Castle.
- Tram 28 — a classic ride through the old town — board early to get a seat.
- Belém — Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and the original pastéis de Belém.
- Miradouros — Senhora do Monte and Santa Catarina are perfect at sunset.
- Sintra — fairy-tale palaces about 40 minutes away by train.
- LX Factory — creative shops, cafés and a huge bookshop in an old factory.
The most popular sights sell out in high season, so check skip-the-line tickets and guided tours in Lisbon a few days before you go — most can be cancelled for free.
Where to stay in Lisbon
Choosing the right area makes a big difference. Here are our favourite neighbourhoods — whatever your budget, compare hotel prices in Lisbon and pick a room with free cancellation.
- Baixa / Chiado — central, flat-ish and close to everything.
- Alfama — authentic and romantic, but hilly with cobbles.
- Príncipe Real — stylish, green and calm.
- Cais do Sodré — lively nightlife and trains to the beaches.
Getting around
Walk, but bring comfortable shoes for the hills. The metro, trams, buses and funiculars all work with the Navegante card or contactless payment. The metro red line connects the airport to the centre in about 20 minutes.
Want to explore the surroundings at your own pace? Compare car rental prices in Lisbon — booking ahead is usually much cheaper than at the counter.
Before you go
- Flights: prices usually rise as the date gets closer — compare flights to Lisbon and use the whole-month view to find the cheapest days.
- Insurance: medical care abroad can be very expensive, so get travel insurance before you leave.
- Internet: install an eSIM for Portugal before you fly to be online as soon as you land, without roaming fees.
Practical tips
- The cobbles are slippery when wet — wear shoes with grip.
- The small plates served at the start of a meal (bread, olives) are usually charged if you eat them.
- Many museums are closed on Mondays.
- A small city tourist tax applies per night.
Plan your trip to Lisbon
The trusted services we use to plan our own trips.
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