How to Plan a Trip
11 things you can’t miss in Lisbon, Portugal
May 11, 2018
Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.
Lisbon, Portugal is easily one of my favorite cities in the world. From the colors to the food, I fell in love the first day that I arrived! If you’re planning a trip I’ve compiled a list of 10 things that you absolutely can’t miss in Lisbon, an essential stop on any Portugal itinerary!
Things to do in Lisbon, Portugal
1. Wander the old streets of Alfama
Alfama was definitely my favorite neighborhood to wander in Lisbon! I loved the older, local feel to it as we wandered down quaint, quiet roads. I recommend spending at least a couple of hours wandering and getting lost in Alfama. You’re going to want to bring your camera for this one.
2. Catch a sunset view in Graca (and see the adorable buildings)
Looking for an amazing sunset in Graca ? The Belvedere of Our Lady of the Hill viewpoint is a can’t miss in Lisbon sunset spot! Head on up before darkness hits in order to capture the beautiful orange tones as they set on the city!
Next, you can head over to Penalva Da Graca for an incredible seafood dinner and a budget-friendly bottle of house wine! I highly recommend starting with the clams, I promise you won’t regret it! Note, this restaurant is cash only so make sure to come prepared.
3. Take a day trip to Sintra
Did you know that Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located just 35 minutes outside of Lisbon’s center? This not only makes it an easy day trip, but a can’t miss in Lisbon activity!
The train from central Lisbon costs only 2,5 euro each way and takes 30-40 minutes, depending on where exactly you are coming from. Once you arrive you will need to take a bus or private car to reach the sights.
If you’re limited on time make sure to visit both Pena Palace and Moorish Castle! To save some money we decided to view the palace from the outside, rather than entering in.
4. Indulge in a Pastel de Nata
To say that I’m obsessed with these Portuguese desserts is a gross understatement! I like I ate at least 5 a day everyday while I was in Lisbon (and again when I visited Porto the following years).
While I did not have time to visit the famous pastel de nata shop in Belem, they are available all over the city for about 1 euro a piece!
5. Eat fish on Rua dos Bacalhoeiros (one of the best things to do in Lisbon!)
Just a few minutes away from the major Rua Augusta, Rua dos Bacalhoeiros is a road that you can’t miss in Lisbon. On this road, you will find a ton of local, reasonably priced seafood restaurants. Our favorites were the large mussels and fried cod cakes at Canto Saudade.
Heading up to Porto as well? Make sure to check out my weekend guide to Porto!
6. People watch in Rossio Square
Rossio Square is a beautiful, central square is a great place to have a seat and watch the world go by. Bring a bottle of wine along and just sit and take it all in!
7. Sample everything at the Time Out Market
Established in 2014 by the same company as Time Out Magazine, this market is an excellent place to come and sample a variety of local and foreign dishes! Time Out market is definitely a spot that you can’t miss in Lisbon. Already ate? The market has tons of areas to simply grab a glass of wine or a cocktail.
8. Explore St. George’s Castle
Not only is this centrally located castle itself pretty cool, but the views from the top are some of the best in Lisbon. The line gets pretty long so I recommend visiting early to avoid the crowds.
Tickets: 8 euros (5 euros with student ID)
9. Have a glass of sangria (or a few) at LX Factory
If you are in Lisbon then a glass of sangria (or wine) is a MUST! It’s the perfect way to cool down after a long day. The LX Factory is a great place to hang out, grab a drink, and listen to some live music.
10. Stay at Lisbon’s best hostel
For those of you that have been following my adventures for a while, you will know that I am a strong supporter. Considering that I usually travel as a solo female, hostels offer an incredible opportunity to save money and meet tons of AWESOME travelers. I have personally stayed in over 100 hostels and Good Morning Hostel in Lisbon, Portugal has been one of my favorites! The staff makes you feel welcome from the moment that you arrive, the decor is SO cute, and the location is perfect!
For more information, you can visit Good Morning Hostels website.
11. Get Lost in Lisbon
Leave plenty of time in your itinerary to wander down random roads and up quaint streets. It was often walking between destinations that we found the cutest, most picturesque spots!
Visiting Portugal? Here are some other articles to check out:
I hope that you found my list of can’t miss in Lisbon choices to be helpful! Want to save them for later? Pin them now to read later!
