10 Best Places In Lisbon To Visit
Updated January 2025
Bem-vinda! Whether you’re running low on vacation days or are on a strict budget, you can still enjoy what Lisbon and its surrounding cities have to offer in just 3 days. Lisbon is the first international city that I solo traveled to for 3 nights and 4 days – plenty of time to explore the city, spend the full day in Sintra, and learn about Portugal’s history and culture. This itinerary will include 10 must-see destinations and activities to explore when visiting Portugal.
1. People watch at Parque Eduardo VII
Through my aimless walking about the city, I found treasure at Parque Eduardo VII. Thankfully the sun started peaking through the clouds since it had rained the night before – leaving everything about this park feeling perfect. Leading up to the park are blocks filled with gorgeous palm trees and cobblestoned streets. The park itself is massive, adorned by a tall statue of King Edward VII, who had visited Portugal in 1903 as part of the Anglo-Portuguese Alliance. The park displays a sprawling green lawn with uniquely trimmed hedges. I went to the top of the park steps, sat on the marble structure and looked towards the street in awe. It was a perfect day and presented the ideal opportunity for people watching as the sunset.
2. Ride the infamous Lisbon tram
You cannot picture Lisbon without seeing the colorful yellow tram moving throughout the cobble stoned streets. The first trams dating back to 1853, The Lisbon Tramway Network is an integral mode of transportation for Lisboans. One line in particular, the Lisbon Tram 28, is popularly known for providing the most scenic route of Lisbon. It takes passengers through popular neighborhoods like Alfama.
3. Taste the infamous Pastel de Nata at Manteigaria
The well-known Portuguese Dessert, Pastel de Nata. Your trip to Portugal is incomplete if you don’t try this flaky, sweet treat. Pastel de Nata, a custard tart, dates back to the 18th century when it was created by monks. Now, Portuguese citizens and tourists can’t get enough of this delectable treat. While you’re savoring every bite of the Pastel de Nata, try additional pastries the cafe has to offer. I regret not trying more Portuguese pastries while I was traveling!
4. Take a day trip to Sintra
A full-day tour to Sintra is a great way to explore cities outside of Lisbon proper. Sintra is well known for its evergreen natural landscape and historically significant monuments. The National Palace of Pena is a sight to see, sanding tall with its bright orange, yellow and red facade. While I was on my tour I imagined I was on set for a period drama as I took in the romantic architecture and stunning views.
5. See the Peacocks roaming at Castelo de Sao Jorge
I couldn’t pass up on the opportunity to explore the Castelo de Sao Jorge located within the city center of Lisbon. Bypassing the long line, because I bought my entrance ticket online, I enjoyed touring the castle and marveling at the brick and stone structures throughout. To my delight, there were Peacocks roaming the castle’s grounds, stealing everyone’s attention with their bright green and blue feathers.
6. Lunch at Time Out Market Lisboa
After a long day of exploring Lisbon, I couldn’t bring myself to commit to a cuisine for the night. Luckily, Time-Out Market Lisboa houses a multitude of vendors ranging from American, Portuguese, Korean, and so much more. This food market is a great place for your taste buds to explore–without needing to walk from one street to the next.
7. Take a free walking tour around Lisbon City Center
A walking tour is one of the best ways to explore any neighborhood you’re visiting. You get the opportunity to learn firsthand from a local, ask questions, pinpoint spots you want to come back to, for low-cost. During my time in Lisbon, I took it upon myself to wander about the streets and explore but I wish I made the time to join a walking tour. This would have saved me periods of concussion when navigating the steep and sometimes confusing streets in Lisbon. Remember to tip your guide, especially if you select a free walking tour!
8. Say cheers with friends at a bar crawl
If you’re looking for a fun activity to do with a group of travelers, nothing gets people together better than drinking. I guarantee after a few drinks you will make new friends from all around the world. Bar Crawls are a great way to socialize with other travelers, locals, and bookmark bars that you’d want to return to.
9. Explore the colorful streets of Alfama
Save time to wander through the cobblestone streets of Alfama. In spring season, you may spot the gorgeous purple paper flower blossoming. Alfama showcases the mix of Portuguese tile work, sun-kissed brown roofs, and local artistic murals.
10. Shop for Portuguese textiles
Lisbon is famous for its unique tile patterns running in color, shape, pattern, and molding. If you have an interest in design, architecture, or art I highly recommend browsing through the local tile collections at Cortiço & Netos. When tile shopping, beware of vendors selling tiles in flea or street markets. Some vendors may take those tiles from existing structures around the city, so you would be buying used tiles. A great way to identify the difference is to observe the backside of the tile, if it has glue or jagged pieces of concrete, it may have been taken from an existing property.