Tourist Guide to Lisbon

There is no denying that Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant city that boasts ancient history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant culture. With its pastel-colored buildings and delicious aromas wafting through the air, Lisbon offers an unforgettable travel experience. Discover the best sights, tips, and insights to make your visit to this enchanting city unforgettable with this comprehensive guide.

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Lisbon
How to Stay Safe
Where to Stay
Typical Costs
Suggested Budget
Money-Saving Tips
How to Get Around
When to Go
Best Places to Book Your Trip
Related Blogs on Lisbon

Here are the top 5 things to do and see in Lisbon

There are numerous things to do in Lisbon that will appeal to a range of interests. These are the top five things to do and see when visiting this fascinating city:

1. Explore Belém

Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks can be found in Belém, a historic district west of the city center. You won’t want to miss:

Jerónimos Monastery: This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases stunning Manueline architecture. Admission is €10, but free on Sundays.
Belém Tower: Another UNESCO site, this 16th-century fortification symbolizes Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Entry costs €6, and it’s best to visit early to avoid crowds.
Pastéis de Belém: While in Belém, you can’t leave without trying the famous croissant tarts at Pastéis de Belém. A box of six costs around €10, and they are worth it!

2. Wander through Alfama

Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, Alfama, features narrow streets, historic buildings, and breathtaking views. Among the most important sites are:

São Jorge Castle: This castle provides panoramic views of the city and is rich in history. Tickets are €10.
Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa): An excellent example of Romanesque architecture with stunning interiors. Entry is free, but donations are appreciated.

3. Ride Tram 28

Lisbon would not be complete without a ride on Tram 28. You can ride this vintage tram through some of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Lisbon’s architecture and lifestyle can be seen from a unique perspective, with a single ticket costing €3.

4. Visit the LX Factory

The LX Factory is a great place to experience Lisbon’s contemporary culture. Located in a former industrial complex, this trendy area features creative shops, art galleries, and eateries. Don’t forget to check out:

Bookshop Ler Devagar: This charming bookstore is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, featuring a café and unique decor.
Street Art: The LX Factory is also famous for its vibrant street art, making it a perfect backdrop for Instagram photos.

5. Experience Fado Music

Fado music is characterized by its melancholic melodies and lyrics—an excellent way to immerse yourself in Portuguese culture. For authentic performances, visit Clube de Fado or Tasca da Alameda. You can expect to pay around €20-30 for a meal with live music.

How to Stay Safe

Lisbon is considered one of the safest cities in Europe, but it’s always wise to take precautions:

Watch Your Belongings: Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Stay in Well-Lit Areas: Especially at night, stick to well-lit streets and avoid deserted areas.
Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers—112 is for emergencies in Portugal.

Where to Stay

Lisbon offers a range of accommodation options for every budget. Here are some recommended areas:

1. Baixa and Chiado

Pros: Central location, close to shopping and attractions.
Recommended Hotel: Hotel Santa Justa (Rating: 9/10 on Booking.com). Prices start at €120 per night.

2. Alfama

Pros: Historic charm, authentic atmosphere.
Recommended Hotel: Solar do Castelo (Rating: 8.8/10 on Booking.com). Prices start at €150 per night.

3. Belém

Pros: Scenic views, rich in history.
Recommended Hotel: Altis Belem Hotel & Spa (Rating: 9.2/10 on Booking.com). Prices start at €220 per night.

4. Bairro Alto

Pros: Vibrant nightlife, numerous bars and restaurants.
Recommended Hotel: Bairro Alto Hotel (Rating: 9.5/10 on Booking.com). Prices start at €200 per night.

5. Avenida da Liberdade

Pros: Upscale shopping and dining.
Recommended Hotel: Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa (Rating: 9.3/10 on Booking.com). Prices start at €300 per night.

Typical Costs

Lisbon is relatively affordable compared to other Western European capitals. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs you might encounter:

Expense	Average Cost
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant	€12-20
Meal at a mid-range restaurant	€25-50
Public transport (single ticket)	€1.50-3
Coffee (café)	€1-2
Beer (local)	€2-5
Museum entry	€5-15

Suggested Budget

Here’s a rough estimate of what you might budget for a trip to Lisbon:

Backpacker

Accommodation: €20-50 per night (hostels)
Food: €10-20 per day
Activities/Attractions: €10-20 per day
Transport: €5-10 per day
Total: €55-100 per day

Mid-Range Traveler

Accommodation: €70-150 per night (guesthouses or budget hotels)
Food: €30-50 per day
Activities/Attractions: €20-30 per day
Transport: €10-15 per day
Total: €130-245 per day

Luxury Traveler

Accommodation: €200+ per night (luxury hotels)
Food: €70-150 per day
Activities/Attractions: €50-100 per day
Transport: €20-30 per day
Total: €340+ per day

Money-Saving Tips

Traveling on a budget in Lisbon is definitely possible. Here are some tips to help you save money:

Use Public Transport: The metro, trams, and buses are affordable and efficient. A 24-hour public transport pass costs €6.40.
Eat Like a Local: Enjoy meals at local taverns instead of touristy restaurants. Look for “prato do dia” (dish of the day) options.
Visit free attractions: Many museums offer free entry on specific days. Research these opportunities before your visit.
Walk: Lisbon is a walkable city, and you can often discover hidden gems by strolling through its neighborhoods.
Buy Lisboa Card: This card provides free transport and discounts on many attractions. Prices start at €20 for 24 hours.

How to Get Around

Lisbon has an efficient public transport system that makes getting around easy.

Metro: The quickest way to navigate the city, with a single fare costing €1.50.
Tram: The famous Tram 28 is a must-ride, and a single ticket is €3.
Buses: A reliable option to reach areas not covered by the metro.
Walking: Many neighborhoods are best explored on foot, especially Alfama and Bairro Alto.
Bikes/Scooters: Consider renting bikes or e-scooters for a fun way to explore the city.

When to Go

The best time to visit Lisbon is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and crowds are fewer. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:

Spring (March-May): mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists. Average temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F).
Summer (June-August): hot and crowded, with temperatures soaring above 30°C (86°F). This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices.
Fall (September-November): comfortable temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere. Ideal for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities.
Winter (December-February): cooler temperatures (10-15°C / 50-59°F) and occasional rain. Fewer crowds, but some attractions may have reduced hours.

Best Places to Book Your Trip

Booking your trip to Lisbon is easy with a variety of platforms available:

Flights: Use sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights to compare prices and find the best deals.
Accommodation: Booking.com and Airbnb offer a range of options, from budget to luxury.
Activities: Viator and GetYourGuide have a plethora of tours and experiences to choose from.
Transport: Check the official Lisbon transport website for metro and tram schedules.

Related Blogs on Lisbon

For further reading and insights, check out these blogs:

The Blonde Abroad: A detailed guide filled with personal experiences and beautiful photography.
Expert Vagabond offers unique tips and itineraries for exploring Lisbon.
Lonely Planet: A comprehensive resource for travelers seeking in-depth information about Lisbon.

Lisbon’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture captivate its visitors. With this travel guide, you will learn everything you need to know about one of Europe’s most charming capitals. The narrow streets of Alfama or the delicious pasteis de nata will make you fall in love with Lisbon. I wish you a happy journey!

Lisbon Travel Guide: Top Tips and Highlights