Lisbon is the coastal capital of Portugal and I had been dreaming of visiting for a very long time. I was lured by the pastel coloured buildings, sunny climate and rich culture. We spent 5 days falling in love with Lisbon. Here’s my 7 top things to do in the city and 3 things you can not miss further afield including old towns, beaches and fairytale castles.
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7 things to do in Lisbon
1. Explore the old town
Alfama is almost stuck in time. It’s the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon made up of narrow streets, winding paths and colourful buildings. Neighbours shout from windows, animals snooze on steps and washing hangs on lines. It’s utterly charming and worth a slow stroll through. Grab a bite in one of the many cafes. We ate in Pois Cafe, a quirky cafe that displays local artwork and has a second hand book library. You’ll also find Lisbon’s stunning Cathedral on the edge of the town.
2. Take advantage of the viewpoints
Lisbon is called “cidade das sete colinas“, the city on seven hills. There’s lots of viewing points where you can take in the magnificent views. Expect colourful buildings topped with burnt orange roofs and notice the bright blue river sparkling from a distance. My favourite points were Miradouro Da Graca and Miadouro Da Senhora Do Monte.
3. Eat like a local with pastel del nata
You basically can’t visit Portugal and not try a Pastel del nata. They’re a scrummy egg tart pastry that taste incredible warm. They’re served in nearly every eatery so snack on.
4. Step back in time at Lisbon Castle
The Castelo de Sao Jorge stands proudly above Lisbon on the highest hill and is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Apparently it dates all the way back to 11th Century! We didn’t go inside but we enjoyed wandering along the castle walls and getting lost in the cute streets. Entry is about 10 euro.
5. Ride the classic trams
In 1873 the first tramway started in Lisbon, and they were, appropriately, called Americanos. That’s because they were inspired by the trams from San Francisco. It makes sense as Lisbon is similarly hilly. The trams have become a huge part of city living and there are now 6 lines with 63 trams in operation.
6. Take a graffiti tour
Lots of the graffiti you will find in Lisbon was commissioned by the city authorities themselves. They wanted to brighten up some of the run down walls and it worked. Suddenly the city looked super urban and creative. Lots of businesses and individuals offer tours so hit one up to really get to know the art scene. These pictures were taken at Galeria de Arte Urbana.
7. Relax on a rooftop bar
Honestly, seeing Lisbon from above is such a treat. We found a chilled rooftop bar where we sat on the balcony soaking up the views and sipping our cocktails. We stopped at Lumi Rooftop to do exactly that.
Want to explore a little further?
Here’s 3 more must dos near Lisbon
1. Take a trip to the Statue of Christ
The statue of Christ is the most iconic monument in Lisbon and sits on the other side of the river. It depicts Christ with his arms spread out blessing the city in the hopes they never have to endure another world war. A sign of hope and peace. It was quite obviously inspired by Christ the Redeemer in Rio, Brazil.
Erected in the 1950s, the statue is 28 metres tall and stands upon a 82 metre pedestal. You can pay 6 euros to be whisked up via elevator to the viewing platform at the top. However, the view from the hillside is just as glorious with sweeping views across Lisbon. You will also get a view of Abril bridge, another American influence as it is twinned with San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.
How to get there? Take the 10 minute ferry from Cais do Sodre Station across the river to Cacilhas, Almada. Catch bus (number 101) from the station, which will drop you 200 metres from the statue.
2. Bike ride in Cascais
Cascais is a holiday town that has lots of sandy beaches. We just jumped on the train from Lisbon, which took us there in around 40 minutes.
After a quick mooch around the shops, we decided to hire bikes and take the purpose built cycle path to the surfing beach of Praia do Guincho. The cycle path is super safe and hugs the coastline offering incredible sea views.
The 6 mile trip takes at least half a day and was a fairly tough ride for a non cyclist like me but with lots of rest stops I managed it. The restaurant at Guincho beach had access to toilets and a bar to purchase much needed cold drinks. We chilled here for a while before heading back.
There are free bikes around the city but they go pretty quickly. I recommend hiring anyway as you get safety equipment and usually bike chains. We rented from Scooters na linha.
3. Feel like Royalty in Sintra
You can not miss this! Sintra is in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains and hides away the most gorgeous palaces and gardens. Definitely spend some time exploring the centre and grab a bite before heading to Pena and Quinta.
Pena Palace is an 18th Century fairytale castle nestled into the hills of Sintra. The building is painted in bold reds and yellows with pretty terraces that offer magnificent views over Sintra as well as gates and doorways that are watched over by mythological statues.
We bought the Park ticket for about 8 euros as we didn’t want to go inside the Palace – the outside was well enough for us to explore. And get some cheeky insta pics of course. Don’t forget to have a slow walk through the palace’s gardens too!
We also made time to get lost inside Quinta da Regaleira, a mystic garden. You will find hidden pathways, secret steps down to the bottom of wells and cool caves. It will ignite your inner child. Entry is around 10 euros and well worth it in my opinion.
How to get there? Take a 45 minute train direct to Sintra for about 5 euro. Do not use the taxis outside once you arrive, just walk to the centre it’s not far. We took an uber to get to both Pena and the Gardens.
A handy map
Lisbon was everything I hoped for and more
It’s rare I say I will revisit a place but this city has earned a spot on that very elite list. It’s certainly encouraged me to see more of Portugal as I hear Porto has such a different vibe.
Let me know if you’re planning on visiting! Did you find this guide helpful?
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