ULTIMATE LISBON GUIDE
If you’re seeking a laid-back, romantic, and charming destination, look no further than Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Nestled among seven hills, this city boasts a breathtaking landscape of coloured buildings and exquisite telework.
Lisbon not only offers stunning viewpoints that will leave you in awe, but it also presents a plethora of captivating sites to explore.
As you meander through Lisbon’s picturesque, cobbled streets, you’ll find yourself enveloped in a vibrant tapestry of colours. The charismatic and lively neighbourhoods cater to all tastes with boutique shops, trendy cafes, thriving art galleries, and expansive squares offering scenic vistas.
Lisbon effortlessly combines detailed architecture, rich history, and bohemian charm, giving the city a distinct character. Moreover, Lisbon’s streets are adorned with artistic talent, showcasing inspiring murals, sculptures, and graffiti in unexpected corners. You might even stumble upon works by renowned artists like Vhils and Bordalo II!
Without a doubt, Lisbon is a city that deserves a visit. I’m thrilled to share with you the best things to do, places to explore, top-notch eateries, and my personal favourite discoveries. Prepare to fall head over heels for this enchanting city!
Table of Contents
HOW TO GET AROUND IN LISBON
Explore Lisbon’s vibrant neighbourhoods on foot to uncover hidden treasures, but keep in mind that covering the entire city by walking isn’t practical due to its size. Instead, you have a variety of transportation options:
- Take a ride on the iconic yellow trams for a classic sightseeing experience, but be prepared for crowds, especially on tram 28, which goes through popular tourist areas.
- Opt for an electric bike or e-scooter, like Whoosh, available conveniently throughout the city via a user-friendly app.
For tourists, the Lisboa Card is the ultimate choice! It offers complimentary entry to most attractions and unlimited access to buses, trams, trains, and the metro. To acquire it, purchase a Viva Viagem card for €0.50, which is valid for 12 months. Lisboa Card options include: €21 for 24 hours, €35 for 48 hours, and €44 for 72 hours.
EXPLORING LISBON'S BEST NEIGHBOURHOODS
Baixa
Baixa is the most central and renowned neighbourhood in Lisbon. It is the historic heart of the city, where you will find the main landmarks.
Chiado
Chiado is an elegant and bohemian neighbourhood situated between Bairro Alto and Baixa. It is filled with trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is one of the most popular nightlife neighbourhoods in Lisbon and is home to numerous Fado shows.
Alfama
Alfama is known for its history and charm, being one of Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric quarters. It is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with shops selling traditional crafts and quaint cafes.
Belém
Belém is a laid-back area on the Tagus River, known for its seafood restaurants, the MAAT Museum, the LX Factory, and the famous Belém Tower.
chiado district
The beautiful pastels of the Chiado district
BEST ACCOMODATION IN LISBON
Baixa and Chiado are two of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Lisbon. However, in my opinion, Chiado is the best choice. Located in the heart of the city, it’s just a short walk away from places worth visiting. Chiado is an elegant and bohemian area, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and historical landmarks.
Below, I have listed a few of my favourite hotels and apartments :
Flora Chiado Apartments
Flora Chiado is an exceptional choice for those looking for accommodation in the heart of Lisbon’s Chiado district. Furthermore, it’s just a short walk away from many of the city’s top attractions.
Madalena Orquidea Living Apartments
Madalena Orquidea Living is located in the heart of Lisbon. The apartments offer stunning city views and are walking distance to some of the city’s top attractions, including St. George’s Castle, Commerce Square, and Rossio.
The Visionaire Apartments
These apartments offer a range of accommodation options, including apartments, studios, and suites, all of which feature fully equipped kitchens. Situated across from the iconic Figueira Square, the apartments offer easy access to many popular eateries, including renowned restaurants, emblematic cafés, and classic pastry shops. Moreover, the Chiado neighbourhood is just a 6-minute walk away, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s cultural landmarks and attractions.
The Lisboans Apartments
The Lisbon’s provide spacious and elegantly decorated apartments, a mere 5-minute walk from Commerce Square.- Boasting breathtaking views of the Tagus River. Additionally, the picturesque Alfama neighbourhood, renowned for its narrow streets, traditional Fado music, and genuine local cuisine, is also just a brief 5-minute stroll away.
The Vintage Lisbon
Situated in the city centre, is a five-star spa hotel offering a retro-inspired atmosphere. Ideal for a rejuvenating wellness retreat, the hotel boasts an on-site spa with an array of treatments. Additionally, guests can enjoy a rooftop bar providing spectacular city views and a restaurant serving authentic Portuguese cuisine.
CHIADO DISTRICT
RESTAURANTS IN LISBON
A CEVICHERIA
A Cevicheria is a popular casual Peruvian restaurant that serves ceviche and seafood dishes with an Asian twist. Located in the trendy Principe Real neighbourhood, it has earned a reputation for its fresh and flavourful dishes, along with its creative cocktails. The restaurant has a stylish and laid-back atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual meal and drinks. Make a reservation in advance, as the restaurant can get busy.
ALFAMO CELLAR
Alfama Cellar is a restaurant located in the charming Alfama neighbourhood. Moreover, the restaurant specialises in serving traditional Portuguese cuisine, including fresh seafood and meat dishes, in a cosy and intimate atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to experience the flavours of Portuguese cuisine and enjoy the relaxed ambiance of the Alfama neighbourhood.
TABERNA RUA DAS FLORES
Taberna Rua das Flores is a great spot for traditional Portuguese tapas with a contemporary twist. However, reservations are not accepted, so you need to arrive early and put your name on the list. Queues tend to form quickly, so it’s recommended to arrive at around 6 PM, and they will provide you with a time slot for your meal. The restaurant has a cosy and intimate atmosphere, along with an extensive wine list.
PRADO
Prado is a farm-to-table restaurant located in Lisbon’s trendy neighbourhood of Baixa. With an industrial-chic atmosphere and an open kitchen, the restaurant serves up a rotating seasonal menu of locally sourced ingredients. This place is one of my favourites, and an absolute must while visiting Lisbon.
-
- PRADO
-
- PRADO
-
- PRADO
-
- PRADO
SENHOR UVA
This hidden gem in Lisbon offers a perfect pairing of natural wines and plant-based food. Furthermore, the wine selection is carefully curated, and the dishes are inventive, creative, and entirely plant-based. Senhor Uva is a great spot for a relaxed and intimate meal, with a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.
BOAVISTA SOCIAL CLUB
Boavista Social Club is a dynamic dining and music venue that transforms into a buzzing bar at night. With a vast collection of natural wines, delicious sharable dishes, and a weekly menu of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, it’s a must-visit spot. The venue also boasts an extensive vinyl record collection played through an incredible sound system, creating an immersive musical experience.
TRICKY’S
Tricky’s is a funky spot in Lisbon that offers innovative cuisine. However, the restaurant only accepts payment in cash or with Portuguese cards, so come prepared. The menu changes frequently to feature fresh and seasonal ingredients.
PRADO MERCEARIA
Inspired by Prado restaurant, Prado Mercearia wine & bistro serves up daily dishes made from the freshest local ingredients, straight from the farmers, fishermen, and artisans. their wine list highlights their organic and low-intervention Portuguese wines. The restaurant has a cosy charm, and in my view, the food is simply fantastic!
-
- PRADO MERCEARIA
-
- PRADO MERCEARIA
-
- PRADO MERCEARIA
-
- PRADO MERCEARIA
SEMS RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR
SEM Restaurant & Wine Bar in Lisbon is known for its best tasting menu, which is perfectly paired with a selection of organic Portuguese wines. Additionally, it’s a zero-waste restaurant, meaning it has a sustainable approach towards food and minimises food waste.
FARÉS
Fares is a vibrant Middle Eastern tavern that serves delicious dishes from Mediterranean and Arabic cuisines. The restaurant’s interior is decorated with colourful tiles, giving it a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu features a variety of meze plates, grilled meats, and vegetarian options, and the portions are generous. Don’t forget to try their signature cocktails, which perfectly complement the flavours of the food.
THE CAPSULE CAFE
The Capsule Cafe is a contemporary bistro that offers a unique culinary experience with an open kitchen concept, serving a Neo-bistro cuisine. The restaurant takes pride in offering a carefully curated selection of natural wines that perfectly complement the food menu.
JAVÁ
Java is a fantastic rooftop bar and restaurant, offering stunning panoramic city views. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a sunny rooftop brunch, or a sunset cocktail.
-
- JAVÁ ROOFTOP
-
- JAVÁ ROOFTOP
-
- JAVÁ ROOFTOP
-
- JAVÁ ROOFTOP
CAFÉS IN LISBON
NEIGHBOURHOOD LISBON
Neighbourhood Lisbon is a charming and cosy cafe that specialises in serving high-quality coffee, delicious brunch options, craft beer, and a curated selection of natural and organic wines.
AGUSTO LISBOA
This cafe is one of the best in Lisbon, offering fresh, homemade dishes of exceptional quality with no compromise. Despite its small size, the restaurant has an open, airy, and chic ambiance. The restaurant also offers a fantastic selection of natural wines.
DEDE’S
Chef Dede is a talented chef with Portuguese-Brazilian roots. His cafe specialises in serving delicious all-day brunch dishes and high-quality specialty coffee. Chef Dede draws inspiration from his life and travels, particularly through Australia and Asia, and incorporates fresh and seasonal ingredients sourced from local grocers into his dishes. The result is a menu of innovative and flavourful dishes that are sure to wow any palate.
DEAR BREAKFAST
Dear Breakfast, is a must-visit destination for breakfast lovers, serving up a delicious and satisfying menu that features exquisite coffee, fresh juices, and perfectly cooked eggs. The cafe is open all day, every day, so you can enjoy your favourite breakfast dishes at any time.
FAUNA & FLORA
Fauna & Flora is a super cute cafe located in a rustic storefront filled with lush greenery. The cafe boasts an extensive brunch menu featuring a variety of delicious options. With its relaxing atmosphere and charming decor, Fauna & Flora is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a leisurely meal!
CAFE JANIS
Located in an authentic corner of Lisbon, this lively all-day café has become a beloved haunt for both locals and travellers. It’s the perfect spot for early specialty coffee, a tasty lunch, or late drinks. With its inviting outdoor terrace, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxing brunch in the sun.
BUNA SPECIALITY COFFEE
Buna Speciality Coffee is a must-try for coffee lovers. It’s a little community place where people can come together in a cosy and tranquil atmosphere while enjoying some of the best coffee in town. Buna’s commitment to quality coffee makes it a popular spot among locals and travellers alike.
BARS IN LISBON
BY THE WINE
By The Wine is a relaxed and cosmopolitan wine bar located in the heart of Chiado, featuring one of Portugal’s oldest wine producers. With its unique concept, the bar doubles as a shop and offers an unforgettable tasting experience for wine enthusiasts.
TOPO MARTIM MONIZ
Topo is a seductive rooftop bar that gives off a ‘yet to be discovered’ vibe, with breath-taking views and an intimate atmosphere.
QUIOSQUE ADAMASTOR
Quiosque Adamastor is a scenic kiosk located at the Santa Catarina viewpoint, offering incredible sunset views and is considered one of the best kiosks in Lisbon.
VINO VERO
Vino Vero is an outdoor wine bar that specialises in natural wines and serves delicious charcuterie boards and small plates.
BOM BOM BOM
Bom Bom Bom is a unique concept bar that doubles as a vinyl shop and wine bar. With an incredible selection of natural wines from Portugal, it’s a must-visit for wine enthusiasts looking for something different.
LUMI ROOFTOP BAR
Lumi Rooftop Bar is a cosy terrace that offers stunning views of the castle and the river Tagus, making it an ideal spot to unwind and take in the beauty of the city.
LUMI ROOFTOP BAR
BEST THINGS TO DO IN LISBON
1- GET LOST IN ALFAMA
Alfama is an ancient and picturesque neighbourhood located in the heart of Lisbon. It is known for its narrow, winding streets, steep hills, and old buildings, which create a unique and enchanting atmosphere. You can explore its many shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks, including the Lisbon Cathedral and the Castelo de São Jorge. Alfama is also famous for its lively Fado music scene, which can be enjoyed in many of its traditional bars and cafes.
ALFAMA
2- FEAST AWAY AT THE TIMEOUT MARKET
The Time Out Market is a vast food market situated within the historical Mercado da Ribeira, a traditional market hall constructed in the 1890s. It features some of Lisbon’s best chefs, restaurants, cultural events, and cooking workshops, all under one roof.
3- BIKE TO THE LX FACTORY
Located between Cais do Sodre and Belem, LX Factory is a renovated industrial site that has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity, culture, and gastronomy. It features restaurants, bars, galleries, bookstores, and concept stores, as well as an impressive collection of street art. Situated by the Tagus River, LX Factory hosts a bustling market every Sunday, where you can find vintage clothes, crafts, and various delicious foods.
4- MARVEL AT THE STREET ART IN THE AREA GRACA
The Graça neighbourhood, located within the larger Alfama district, is a vibrant area filled with stunning street art and murals. One of the highlights of the neighbourhood is the famous urban artist and graphic designer Vhils’ work, which can be spotted on Rua da Senhora da Glória.
5- TAKE IN THE VIEWS
Santa Luzia Viewpoint offers stunning city and Tagus River views from the historic Alfama district. Adorned with vibrant azulejo tiles and lush greenery, this picturesque terrace is accessible via Tram 28 or a scenic uphill walk
Quiosque Adamastor is the perfect spot for a sunset. There’s a lively kiosk bar situated near the iconic Adamastor statue. it’s an ideal spot to unwind while enjoying stunning river views.
Portas Do Sol Viewpoint is essentially one huge balcony above the ancient Alfama neighbourhood. It provides captivating panoramas of the Alfama district and Tagus River. This area is the winning shot and has been featured on many postcards.
PORTAS DO SOL VIEWPOINT
6- ENJOY A SUNSET APÉRITIF AT QUIOSQUE ADAMASTOR
Enjoy a sunset apéritif at Quiosque Adamastor, a gathering place located in Lisbon’s Miradouro de Santa Catarina. This spot offers a lively atmosphere with a kiosk, breath-taking sunsets, incredible views of the city and street musicians.
7- WATCH AN AUTHENTIC FADO SHOW AT TASCA DO CHICO
Experience an authentic Fado show at Tasca do Chico. This dark, cosy, and traditional bar offers live performances by Fado singers, making it the perfect place for an authentic and genuine Fado experience.
8- VISIT A MUSEUM
Berardo Collection Museum is a vibrant hub of modern and contemporary art, featuring an extensive range of works from renowned artists around the world.
The National Museum of Contemporary Art is a haven for contemporary art enthusiasts, showcasing thought-provoking and boundary-pushing works by both Portuguese and international artists
MAAT is a modern architectural marvel, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary art and technology.
-
- MAAT
-
- MAAT
9- RELAX & FEEL ZEN AT MONSANTO FOREST PARK
Relax and find your Zen at Monsanto Park, a municipal protected forest located in Lisbon. As the largest green space in the city, the Monsanto Forest Park offers an abundance of natural beauty.
10- TRY A CHERRY SHOT AT GINJINHA SEM RIVAL
For a taste of traditional Portuguese cherry liquor, Ginjinha Sem Rival is a must-visit. This no-fuss, storefront bar allows you to walk in and out with their drink and is known for serving the best ginjinha in the city.
11-ENJOY A PORT BY THE RIVER
Enjoy a refreshing glass of port while taking in the beautiful views of the Tagus River at Kiosk Ribeira das Naus. With comfortable sun loungers and a sunny atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
-
- Kiosk Ribeira das Naus
-
- Kiosk Ribeira das Naus
12- TAKE A DAY TRIP TO SINTRA
Sintra, a charming town nestled in the hills of the Serra de Sintra. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its stunning landscapes, elegant baroque churches, colourful mansions, and grand palaces, such as the famous Pena Palace and the Castle of the Moors. Explore the narrow streets and alleys, visit the local shops and cafes, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this magical town.
Make sure to visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, while you’re in the area. This scenic spot offers breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean and is especially stunning at sunset. The cliffs are a popular destination for hiking and photography.
13- ESCAPE THE CITY AND HIT THE BEACH
Praia do Guincho is a beautiful beach located about 30 minutes west of Lisbon in the Cascais municipality. It is known for its fantastic surf conditions, stunning cliffs, and beautiful natural scenery. The beach stretches for about 800 meters and is surrounded by dunes and pine trees. Praia do Guincho is a popular spot for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing due to its strong winds and consistent waves.
Galapinhos beach is a stunning beach located in the Serra da Arrábida Natural Park, about an hour south of Lisbon. It has been named one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe due to its clear blue waters, white sands, and rugged cliffs. The beach is relatively small, stretching for just 200 meters, but it is incredibly picturesque and surrounded by natural beauty. It is also a popular spot for snorkelling and diving due to the clarity of the water and abundance of marine life.
Praia da Comporta is a beautiful beach located about an hour south of Lisbon in the Setúbal district. It is known for its pristine white sands, clear blue waters, and stunning natural beauty. The beach stretches for about 13 kilometres and is surrounded by sand dunes and pine trees, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and paddle-boarding, and there are several beachside restaurants and bars to enjoy a meal or drink while taking in the views.
SANTA JUTA LIFt
LANDMARKS OF LISBON
Rossio Square
Largo do Carmo Square
Plaza de Figueira
Arco Da Rua Augusta
Santa Juta lift
Monastery of Jerónimos
St George’s Castle
Carmo convent
Estrela Basilic
Belem tower