Top 10 things to do in Lisbon
Lisbon is becoming since the past few years one of the most trendy city in Europe. Thanks to it unique location on the Atlantic side and the pretty weather all year round, the portuguese capital has much to offer. Today we’ve listed the top 10 things to do to enjoy Lisbon as much as possible.
Let’s check this out.
Visit Belém
Exploring Belém is on most people’s to-do lists when in Lisbon and there is a reason for it.
Located in the southwest of the city, the district of Belém used to be the major maritime port of Portugal and that still affects the influence of the neighborhood today.
The area is filled with over 10 sightseeings including the Monastery of Jéronimo (see the picture below/above), the Monument of the Discoveries, the Tower of Belém and of course the famous pastry shop pasteis de nata. So that is more than enough to spend the afternoon in Lisbon.
The company Ride Lisbon provides bike tours that cover all of these highlights by bike.
Get lost in Alfama
Something pretty simple and free to do in town is to walk around Alfama to enjoy the whole scenery Lisbon can offer.
You have to know that Alfama is the oldest part of Lisbon and the second oldest area in Europe, which dates back to the Moors of North Africa that invade Portugal.
Actually, the Arabs created first Alfama in the same type of architecture that you could find in Morocco.
For that reason, you should explore the alleys and narrow streets that form the district of Alfama.
Who said that Lisbon is too hilly to bike?
If you want to visit Lisbon in a half-day Ride Lisbon Bike Tour provides awesome bike tours that connect Alfama to Belém along the riverside on a flat path all way long.
The perfect moment to meet locals people and connect with other travelers.
If you want to know more about it, check out the link here.
Wonder in Lx Factory
Located between the city center and Belém, Lx Factory is the new go-to place in Lisbon. Formerly (1846) manufacturies, the place reopen in 2008 to give some space to the local artists.
Inside that artistic village, you’ll find many restaurants, cafés, a rooftop bar, and some shops. Sunday morning is the best time to come thanks to the organic market that takes place there.
Enjoy the view from the Miradouro da Graça
Lisbon is known as the city of the 7 hills. It is incredibly easy to find the right spot to enjoy the city from the top. On the other hand, it’s harder to choose the best one.
For us, Miradouro da Graça is the best option. Nested at 200m above the sea, sat in the only kiosque there and sipping a cocktail, you could enjoy the breathtaking view of the city.
The best way to end your day in Lisbon!
Ride the tram 28
The tram 28 is one of the greatest attractions to do in the city.
Riding around the tiny streets of Alfama by tram is the best (and only way) to commute there.
There are two departures: Martim Moniz (always crowded) otherwise Cemiterio dos Prazeres (where you have more chance to get a seat).
Relax and enjoy the ride!
Party in Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto (High Neighborhood) is one of the best places for partying. Usually, from Wednesday until the end of the week you’ll find all the night owls in town.
The party place is as well popular to have the cheapest prices for the bars. It’s actually the only place in town where you can get a pint of mojito (0.5L) for 6 euros!
Surf the waves at Costa da Caparica
Crossing the 25th of April bridge (the red one) and you’ll find there a coast of about 30km where all the surfers meet.
The first beaches are only at 25min drive from the city center and have all the facilities you’ll need. Beach clubs, surf rentals/lessons, restaurants, etc.
There is an easy access if you don’t have a car by taking the bus TST 161 from the Praça de Espanha.
Make a short trip to Sintra
Half an hour from Lisbon, you will find the marvelous town of Sintra.
The city hosted the residences of Kings and Queens from Portugal and is full of colorful mansions and castles.
The Pena Palace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-do when in Sintra. We recommend you to devote a full day to visit Sintra.
Listen to Fado Music
Let yourself enchanted by a melancholic fado show.
The music can be express as a kind of nostalgia for something that never happens or almost.
It’s a type of music that doesn’t need to be translated to be felt just like blues music. One of the best places to see a showcase will be Tasca do Chico (try to get there early) located in Alfama and Bairro Alto.