Lisbon, the capital of sunny Portugal, is where the Atlantic Ocean and the Tagus River estuary converge. The riverfront city is as diverse and rich in travel experiences as the nation's lengthy history. Relics of Lisbon's colorful past can be seen all around the city, from the ruins of a Moorish castle perched atop one of the seven hills to a sidewalk café nestled against an old Visigoth wall.
Lisbon takes great pride in its position during Portugal's Age of Discovery, and its most popular attractions are the monuments honoring the expeditions of explorers such as Vasco da Gama.
Lisbon, the oldest city in Western Europe, has made efforts to update its shoreline, modernize its downtown, and improve its transit system, but what draws most tourists to the city is the attractiveness of its oldest neighborhoods. One of the best things to do in Lisbon is to stroll about its hilly streets, narrow lanes, and old sites; you might spend hours browsing.
In addition, the city is well-known for its thriving Fado music culture, passion for soccer (Cristiano Ronaldo began his professional career with Sporting Lisbon), and arts and music scene. In general, it's a place that should appeal to all travelers because it's full of interesting landmarks, attractions, and characters.
List of Top Attractions in Lisbon
Belem Tower
The Belém Tower is arguably the most recognizable sight in Lisbon.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the tower resembling a fortification is a charming emblem of the city. Its exquisitely detailed Manueline architecture, with its nautical motifs and delicate detailing, is incredibly appealing as it stands on the bank of the Tagus River.
It functioned as a defensive building during the Age of Discovery since it was positioned strategically. By taking a trip within the tower, you can discover more about its history. There are other levels to investigate, such as the main terrace, dungeons, and Governor's Hall.
Some individuals may find it difficult to climb the extremely steep and spiral stairway that leads to the latter. However, if you can make it through, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking sweeping views of the esplanade and river.
Sao Jorge Castle
São Jorge Castle, often known as St. George's Castle, is one of Lisbon's oldest jewels and is located in the Alfama District on a hill. The most visited sight in the city transports visitors back to the time when Lisbon was ruled by the Moors, but the location was defended centuries earlier by the Romans and Visigoths.
The Portuguese used the castle as a royal seat until the early 16th century when they drove the Moors out in 1147. Archaeological exhibits are housed in a museum located in the royal quarters today.
It makes sense that scaling the castle ramparts is one of Lisbon's must-do activities. The battlements and parapets offer stunning vistas.
Tram 28
Though most of Lisbon's historic trolley cars, which served as the city's main means of transportation for decades, have long since been replaced, tourists can still take a ride on an ancient streetcar on tram line 28.
Passengers go through some of Lisbon's most well-known neighborhoods and past some of the city's most iconic landmarks on the historic "eléctrico." Tram 28 is frequently taken by tourists to the top of São Jorge Castle to enjoy the expansive views, but locals also utilize the line for their daily commutes. A terrific way to meet new people and gain your bearings in the city is to take the historic tram route.
Related article: Tourist Attractions in Portugal.
Jeronimos Monastery
A remarkable architectural masterpiece, the Jerónimos Monastery is rightfully recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This famous structure was built in the sixteenth century. It is a perfect illustration of the Manueline architecture, which is distinguished by its elaborate masonry and nautical themes. The monastery is incredibly impressive, with its tall spires, elaborate cloisters, and exquisitely carved decorations. You'll be astounded by it when you first see it.
Once inside, visitors may also take in the breathtaking religious art and gorgeous stained glass windows shown in the large nave and chapels. Interestingly, the monastery is home to the tombs of well-known Portuguese people, such as the explorer Vasco da Gama.
After exploring the monastery, make sure to visit the intriguing naval Museum next door, which provides information on Portugal's extensive naval past.
Lisbon Oceanarium
The Oceanarium, one of Lisbon's top contemporary tourist destinations, was constructed as part of the upgrades the city underwent in preparation for hosting the World Exposition in 1998. The Lisbon Oceanarium is Europe's largest indoor aquarium, situated in northeastern Lisbon's Parque das Nações.
It is divided into four distinct habitats, each of which stands for a distinct ocean. The flora and animals of every environment are represented, in addition to an extensive array of marine life that includes everything from stingrays and sharks to penguins and otters. The immersive sensation of strolling past a tank of vibrant fish while tropical birds soar overhead is not to be missed.
Alfama District
The Alfama district, which is the oldest part of historic Lisbon, is home to several notable buildings, some of which are remnants of the Moorish past of the city. However, the Alfama is most known for its charming lanes, mouthwatering restaurants, and Fado clubs.
Largo do Charariz do Dentro, which is lined with Fado taverns and clubs, is the ideal location to take in classic Portuguese folk music. This hillside neighborhood is home to numerous observation platforms, of which the plaza is just one. Travelers go to Largo das Portas do Sol, Lisbon's old Moorish entryway, for sweeping views of the Alfama and the Tagus River.
Santa Justa Elevator
The Santa Justa Elevator, which is situated in the downtown area, provides guests with beautiful views of charming Lisbon. Raul Mésnier designed the "elevador," which was constructed in 1902, drawing inspiration from his colleague Gustav Eiffel's renowned tower in Paris.
Passengers are taken to a platform by the wrought-iron tower, from whence they can stroll to the ruins of the Gothic church Carmo Convent, which was partly destroyed in the great earthquake of 1755. Alternatively, guests can ascend a staircase to the summit of the elevator building to take in views of the Baixa district as a whole.
Rossio Square (Pedro IV Square)
The most well-known square in Lisbon, Pedro IV Square, is the ideal location to experience the local vibe. The "Rossio," which is situated in the upscale Pombaline Lower Town neighborhood of central Lisbon, has served as the hub of activity for the city since the Middle Ages.
The square was the site of public executions during the 16th-century Inquisition. These days, it's where friends get together for a drink at a café or bar before heading to the National Theater, which is situated on the square's northern edge.
Museu Gulbenkian
The late Armenian oil magnate's wealth supports the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, a non-profit with its headquarters located in Lisbon. Constructed to showcase Gulbenkian's art collection, the Museu Gulbenkian provides guests with an incredibly unique experience.
Despite the tiny size of the collection, each piece is of exceptional quality. The collection encompasses the finest of all eras and facets of art history, ranging from Chinese jade, Persian porcelain, and jewelry made by Lalique to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Renoir, and Monet. Additionally, the museum frequently hosts renowned traveling exhibitions.
Monument to the Discoveries
The enormous Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos), built of white stone, resembles a ship with its sails spread at the Tagus River coastline, the starting point of many of Portugal's most significant exploration expeditions.
The structure was constructed as a tribute to Infante Dom Henrique, who subsequently went by the name Prince Henry the Navigator. The stone sculpture features the prince who heralded in Portugal's Age of Discovery at its prow, flanked by other national heroes and explorers.
A museum housed inside the monument features fascinating displays that shed more light on Portugal's accomplishments in the marine industry. In addition, an escalator takes guests to the top level, where they may enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape and river.
Praca do Comercio
One of the main draws of Lisbon's downtown waterfront is the Praca do Comercio, a large square surrounded by tasteful 18th-century architecture. Dom Jose I of Portugal lived here until the 1755 earthquake destroyed it.
The square is still referred to by locals as the royal palace's yard, or Terreiro do Paco. The focal point of the plaza is a statue that depicts the king riding a horse. Anchoring the northern side is a massive triumphal arch that was finished in 1873. Visitors taking in Lisbon's picturesque coastline often make their way to the sunny area, which is home to several hotels, shops, and restaurants.
Cristo Rei Statue
The Cristo Rei monument, which is perched on a hill with a view of the Targus River, was inspired by Brazil's famous Christ the Redeemer statue. The enormous monument was erected as an act of thanksgiving to God for sparing Portugal from the greatest atrocities of World War II.
The public was able to access it in 1959. The Christ figure, standing with arms extended, is positioned atop a tall arch, with a rectangular observation deck situated at its foot. Visitors can experience sweeping views of Lisbon, the Targus estuary, and the Golden-Gate-style 25 de Abril Bridge from a platform located beneath the figure's feet, accessible by an inner elevator.
Time Out Market Lisboa
After a major makeover, Lisbon's oldest food market reopened as Time Out Market Lisboa in 2014. Since then, it has emerged as the top tourist destination in the city.
Every year, about 3 million people visit the food hall to sample regional cuisine throughout Portugal. The marketplace, which has 35 kiosks and several eateries, sells a wide range of goods, including Arcadia chocolates, Alentejo ham, and sheep's cheese from Azeirao.
Foodies can sample delights, eat cooked meals, and buy attractively packed food to take home. The market is the ideal spot to enjoy a late breakfast or an early dinner because it opens every day at 10 a.m.
National Azulejo Museum
Lisbon is replete with azulejos, or vibrant ceramic tiles, which are affixed to everything from churches to stores to metro stations. Their cultural and architectural significance throughout the city's lengthy history is documented by the National Azulejo Museum.
The Moors brought tile-making to Portugal in the eighth century, and with the invention of oxide coatings in the sixteenth century, the craft achieved its pinnacle. Exquisite wall panels and individual tiles can be seen in the museum's displays. Some of the most intricate pieces of azulejo art can be found within the complex's monastery church.
Visitors may admire the elaborate patterns, vivid colors, and narrative components portrayed on these ornamental tiles, which are on display as part of a large collection that spans several centuries.
The museum examines the development and history of azulejos while highlighting their importance in Portuguese architecture and culture. Its extraordinarily intricate exhibits feature geometric patterns, floral motifs, historical scenes, and religious imagery.
Vasco da Gama Bridge
When it was finished in 1998, the Vasco da Gama Bridge was a popular attraction and a modern engineering marvel. Dedicated to the most renowned explorer of Portugal, the purpose of its construction was to ease traffic in Lisbon. The cable-stayed bridge spans the Tagus River for almost 17 km (11 miles), and because of its length, its designers had to account for the curvature of the Earth.
Constructed for 1.1 billion dollars, the six-lane bridge is anticipated to endure for over a century, guaranteeing future generations of visitors to enjoy its magnificent architecture.
Se Cathedral
Lisbon Cathedral, or Sé de Lisboa, is the oldest and most significant church in the city, and it is a place of immense significance. Its construction, which took place mostly in the Romanesque style, dates back to the 12th century. However, over time, several changes have added various design motifs, giving it a distinct personality.
The church resembles a medieval fortress due to its two bell towers and strong walls that defend it. Once inside, guests will discover a beautifully decorated interior that includes a 14th-century Gothic chapel, sarcophagi, and the fountain where Saint Anthony of Padua was baptized.
Its stunning rose-colored stained-glass window is one of its most striking characteristics. Its grand main altar and elaborate chapels are also remarkable at the same time.
Museu Colecao Berardo
With an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks, the Museu Coleção Berardo is a top-tier museum dedicated to contemporary art. It was established in 2006 by well-known Portuguese businessman and art collector José Berardo.
The museum, which is housed in Belém's Praça do Império, features pieces by well-known painters in addition to a variety of art trends and genres. Among them are artists such as Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon, Salvador Dalí, and Pablo Picasso. The collection of the museum includes works in a variety of media, such as photography, installation art, sculpture, and painting.
Its modern, roomy galleries offer the ideal environment for observing the creative, frequently thought-provoking artworks shown in its two ongoing exhibitions and numerous one-off displays.
Please note that we are closed on Mondays if you do intend to visit.
Ajuda National Palace
Lisbon's Ajuda National Palace is among its most striking structures. The palace is also home to an impressive collection of ornamental arts, sculptures, and paintings.
The majority of the upper floor is dedicated to staterooms, with a magnificent music room located on the ground floor.
The adjacent gardens offer a tranquil haven outside with exquisitely manicured lawns and picturesque vantage spots to admire the palace's façade.
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
A well-known monument in Lisbon, the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte provides another serene location to take in expansive city views.
Situated close to Miradouro da Graça, it offers an amazing viewpoint for observing the city. Viewers can witness the Graça church and the castle, which is guarding the city with buildings tumbling down its hillside.
The ruins of Carmo, the pastel colors of Avenidas Novas, and the rooftops of Baixa are all illuminated by the river and the Tagus estuary. It's interesting to note that nine centuries ago, this is where Portugal's first monarch, Afonso Henriques, assembled his army to seize Lisbon. The Lady of the Mount (Senhora do Monte) and her chapel, which dates back to 1147, are the most revered structures here.
Day Trip to Sintra
Lisbon is a fantastic city that you will want to visit as often as possible. If you do have time for a side trip, we highly suggest visiting the charming town of Sintra.
Located comfortably in the foothills of the rugged Serra de Sintra, the rail ride from the city center will take you there in approximately forty minutes. Once you get there, though, you'll discover an amazing Moorish fortress from the eighth century among majestic royal palaces and enchanted houses.
Nestled within a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and winding lanes, Sintra-Vila's medieval old town offers a fascinating blend of bright, elegant mansions, decorative cafés, and traditional restaurants. You should take your time and take it all in there.
Lisbon Zoo
Lisbon Zoo isn't your typical zoo. It is a well-liked location that blends recreation, learning and environmental preservation.
Many animal species from all over the world may be found in the zoo, giving visitors the chance to see and learn about animals up close.
It provides a wonderful experience for people of all ages, housing everything from stately lions and lively dolphins to colorful birds and charming primates. It even features animals that most people don't get to see daily, such as giraffes, ostriches, lynxes, and crocodiles.
In addition to the animal exhibits, they provide informative talks, interactive displays, and educational activities that support environmental awareness and conservation initiatives. Along with nicely designed gardens and picnic places, the zoo offers you a pleasant and tranquil atmosphere to enjoy.
LX Factory
A shopping excursion to the LX Factory is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Lisbon. Once an industrial textile complex, LX Factory is now one of Lisbon's trendiest hotspots for hip clubs, restaurants, and retail establishments.
The refurbished neighborhood, which is located beneath the Ponte de 25 Abril Bridge, has cobblestone lanes and walls adorned with street art, giving it the appearance of a town. While there, you can purchase jewelry at Ana Couto & Valérie Lachuer or Hilary & June, clothing at Etnik Spring or Coqueta, and home furnishings at Pura Cal.
You can also see artists at work at their ateliers and studios, peruse a multi-story bookstore, and have lunch in a former industrial canteen. Periodically, there are also exhibitions or live music events.
Miradouro Sao Pedro de Alcantara
The Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is the most well-known viewing point in Lisbon. It has an amazing perspective of the city and is close to the Elevador da Glória.
From here, you can see Baixa and Restauradores Square, making it a great site to gather your bearings when you first arrive in the city. Not to mention the magnificent walls and lush pine trees of the Castelo de São Jorge, as well as the avenue Avenida da Liberdade. Not to be overlooked is the Igreja da Graça, a magnificent baroque-style church from the 13th century.
The observation point is a great place to have a picnic or unwind after a long day of sightseeing because it is surrounded by a beautiful, well-kept garden.
National Museum of Ancient Art
Lisbon's National Museum of Ancient Art is one of our top tourist destinations. The museum features a wide collection of artwork, including decorative arts, paintings, sculptures, and textiles, all housed in a stunning 17th-century palace.
Exhibiting a vast array of artwork from Portugal and abroad, we witnessed amazing works of art by well-known artists like Nuno Gonçalves, Albrecht Dürer, and Hieronymus Bosch. The "Temptations of Saint Anthony" triptych and the museum's remarkable collection of Portuguese Renaissance and Baroque artifacts are among its principal attractions.
The most appealing aspect of this museum, in our opinion, is how its extensive and varied collection provides an intriguing tour through Portugal's artistic history. You could easily spend the entire day there, as it offers an engrossing glimpse into the history of the nation's culture.
Carmo Convent Ruins
The Carmo Convent Ruins are a stunningly eerie reminder of a terrible moment in Lisbon's past. Built in the fourteenth century, the convent suffered significant damage in the catastrophic 1755 earthquake. Many worshippers unfortunately lost their lives at this time as a result of falling masonry and debris.
The decaying walls and soaring arches create an ominous atmosphere, acting as a melancholy reminder of the city's past. Wandering among the worn stone columns, visitors can examine the site and imagine the majesty that once stood there. Artifacts from the nearby Carmo Archaeological Museum shed more light on the history of the location.
Additionally, the front of the church faces Chiado's lovely Largo do Carmo, which is highlighted by the magnificent Chafariz do Carmo fountain.
Feira da Ladra
Check out the "Feira da Ladra" flea market if you enjoy shopping.
The market has a long history and is held every Tuesday and Saturday from daybreak until early afternoon at Campo de Santa Clara, a space by the National Pantheon. The 17th century saw the first recorded mention of its name in written records. Nonetheless, there is proof that it dates back to the 12th century.
Because the Portuguese term "ladra" indicates a woman thief, many people assume the name of the place means "Thieves' Market." It derives from the word "ladro," which refers to a flea or bug that is found in antiques. These days, several vendors or booths use blankets to showcase their wares. Everything from clothing, books, and handcrafted artisan goods to coins, artifacts from the military, antiquities, and furniture can be found by shoppers.
Igreja de Sao Roque
Among the oldest Jesuit churches in the world is the Igreja de São Roque. Constructed during the 16th century, this outstanding building is well-known for both its extensive history and breathtaking architectural design.
Its Renaissance façade may be inconspicuous, but as you enter inside, its elaborate Baroque and Mannerist designs, elaborate chapels, and gilded altarpieces will captivate you. The most remarkable feature of the church is the Capela de São João Baptista, which is frequently called the "most expensive chapel in the world."
The elaborate mosaic that serves as the chapel's major focal point is embellished with lapis lazuli, priceless stones, amethyst, and finishes of ivory, silver, and gold. "The Baptism of Christ," a work of art by Mattia Moretti, will hold your interest for a considerable amount of time.
