Are you planning a trip to Portugal and wondering what to see and do in Lisbon?
Located along the coast in Western Europe, Lisbon’s rugged architecture and beautiful beaches have become popular in recent years, but still manage to fly under the radar compared to other European destinations.
With so many central neighborhoods in Lisbon, you’re always close to something notable to see- from historical churches to off-the-beaten-path finds. In this guide I’ll cover things you can’t miss, and what to see and do in Lisbon for first-timers!
Not Much Time To Browse? Here’s Your Mini-Guide On Visiting Lisbon!
Where to Stay: Alfama (historic old town charm), Baixa & Rossio (central landmarks), Chiado & Bairro Alto (bohemian finds), Cais Do Sodre (relaxed and chill)
Read my complete guide on the best neighborhoods in Lisbon here!
When to Visit: To avoid crowds, I’d recommend visiting in the spring or fall. Prices typically skyrocket in July-August and the city can feel insanely busy.
Your Guide On What To See And Do In Lisbon For First-Timers
Admire Lisbon On An Old Tram Tour Through The City
In my opinion, one of the best ways to see a new city on your first day is to take any type of tour. By foot, bus, train, or tuk tuk- there’s no shortage of options, but I’d recommend the old tram tour as one of the best things to do in Lisbon.
If you don’t want the hassle of walking in the heat on Lisbon’s steep streets, the most popular red tram tour leaves from Praça do Comércio (the large plaza facing the harbor) every 25 minutes between 9:30 – 5:00. Traveling through the city’s various neighborhoods for an hour or so, you’ll see notable stops like: Alfama, Portas Do Sol, and Sé Cathedral.
It really feels like you’re in another era sitting on the red plush seats and seeing Lisbon in a different way. One of the highlights of the tour was our driver actually pulling over to let us jump out for a few minutes to explore the Basílica da Estrela.
Tickets are between $19 for the complete tram 28 tour, or $27 for the tram 28 tour and entrance to the Santa Justa Lift. If you want the option of seeing Lisbon by land and sea, then I’d opt for the 72/96-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, Tram & Boat Ticket.
⭐ Top Tip: During peak seasons, I’d try to book this tour online if you can. I bought my ticket from a vendor nearby, and it was a little more and didn’t include tickets to the lift.
Spend The Day At The Beaches Near Lisbon (Yes, There Are Some!)
Most first-timers deciding what to see and do in Lisbon, often don’t realize that there are beaches nearby. Aside from the harborfront where most locals chill in the sun, the closest beach is actually just a ferry ride away from the city!
If you want somewhere closeby, then hop on the ferry from Terreiro do Paço across the Tagus River to Alburrica Beach. In total, the ride takes about 20 minutes and tickets start at a whooping 2 euros – an affordable day out indeed. The beach has showers, a bar and a volleyball court, and is easy to find if you look for the windmills.
If you’re looking to practice your surf, then you can catch the train from Cais do Sodre to Carcavelos Beach to find small waves, beachfront restaurants, and Carcavelos Surf School. The windy conditions at Guincho Beach make it an optimal spot for experienced surfers, which makes for some prime people watching at Bar do Guincho.
Cascais is a one hour train ride or 35 minute drive from Lisbon, and has some of the most stunning beaches along the coast. Want to plan a day trip to Cascais? Get the guide here!
When I was visiting Lisbon, we chose to grab an uber and venture to Praia de Mata Beach. In June, we still managed to reserve lounge chairs for the five of us near the restaurant, and definitely made use of our local waiter! If you want to save some money, then just bring a towel and find a spot on the sand.
⭐ Top Tip: If you’re visiting Lisbon in the summer months, then try to get to the beaches before 9am or in the evening for the sunset. The warmest and busiest times are around mid-day, and there’s not much shade anywhere unless you have an umbrella.
Stroll Through the Historic Alfama Neighborhood of Lisbon
Winding roads and rustic architecture- time almost seems to stand still in Alfama. Many of the homes here have been passed down through generations, so it’s somewhat of an exclusive neighborhood where everyone knows everyone.
It’s easy to spend hours meandering along the steep alleyways admiring the local way of life and the welcoming feel. Laundry left out to dry and neighbors gathered at the nearby restaurant. There’s something charming about Alfama that definitely warrants it being on the list of things to do in Lisbon.
⭐ Top Tip: One of the best ways to explore Alfama is by joining a locally run walking tour. My guide shared the incredible history of the area, as well as some facts I never would’ve known (like the humble portraits hidden along street walls representing family members).
Wander Along Lisbon’s Famous Street Of Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo
Lisbon’s most photographed street was named famous by its yellow funicular. Born in 1892, the funicular takes travelers between the Cais do Sodré district and Bairro Alto in less than 5 minutes. The steps on either side of the street are extremely narrow and slippery at times, so I say it’s worth the short ride.
You can buy the tickets on board from the driver with cash or by tapping a debit card on the reader. The €4.20 fare gives you two trips on the same day – just for the fun of it!
Honestly, during my week in the city I spent most of my time on this street just walking around… It’s no doubt one of the best things to see in Lisbon. If you want to escape the crowds that hang around the tram, some of my favorite spots are here.
There’s no missing Bike Bakery when you get that distinct whiff of a freshly baked loaf. The small storefront offers baked goods and cheap beers on tap. A few steps up you’ll find the tiny restaurant of Empanar, serving a variety of empanadas with both veggie and meat options. To watch the tram pass by, grab a cocktail at Bica Sour or some authentic tapas dishes. All businesses along this road are incredibly tiny inside – adding to the charm!
⭐ Top Tip: If you do want a picture with the tram, visit incredibly early in the morning to avoid the groups and get that ideal sunrise light.
Explore the Quirky Stores And Art Of The LX Factory
An industrial complex that’s lined with towering paintings and works of art, the LX Factory is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. While it’s not huge, you can easily spend a few hours walking around, and it’s a nice break from the bustle of the city.
This quirky area has it all. From a picturesque bookstore to levitating art installations (literally). Many local businesses offering handmade goods set up shop here, so you might want to save your souvenir shopping until you visit. LX Factory is the prime people watching spot, and some of the bars offer happy hour deals during the day (think one euro beers..) Flower trucks, gourmet goods, Portuguese pottery…
What’re you waiting for? Add it to your list of what to see and do in Lisbon now!
Hop on tram 15 from Praça da Figueira to Calvário in Alcântara. The journey takes around 20-25 minutes later, and is a three-minute walk to the entrance of the Factory.
⭐ Top Tip: Visit on a Sunday between 10am- 7pm to check out the local vendor pop-ups.
If you want to get out of the city for the day, this tour brings you to the historic Alfama neighborhood, along the river to Belem, and to the fun LX Factory!
