Top Things to Do in Lisbon and Hidden Gems

So, you’re on the hunt for the best things to do in Lisbon? The good news is our travel crafters know this Portuguese city like the back of their hands. Lisbon truly has something for everyone, from Jerónimos Monastery for history fans and Pastéis de Belém for foodies, to Alfama’s winding alleys for explorers, and a glass of AdegaMãe Reserva for wine lovers. Here you’ll find the perfect blend of rich history and lively modern culture.

Get ready for iconic pastel-hued houses and ancient hilltop castles; this is a city that effortlessly combines old-world charm with contemporary flair. You’ll spend your mornings walking through old monasteries and your afternoons soaking in panoramic views from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, recommended by our travel crafter Carla as one of the best in the city.

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Top must-see attractions

For our travel crafter, Carla, Lisbon’s rich history and striking architecture shine through its landmarks, from the panoramic views of Castelo de São Jorge and the iconic riverside Belém Tower to the old factories reborn as cultural hubs. Here are some of her unmissable attractions that she recommends saving for your next trip:

(Opening hours and ticket prices were accurate at the time of writing. Please check the official websites for the latest updates)

Belém Tower

Climb to the top of this 16th-century fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site) at the edge of the Tagus River for excellent waterfront views and imagine the explorers who set sail from here centuries ago.

• Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

• Tickets: Around €15.

• Carla’s tip: Visit early for fewer crowds and to enjoy the morning light. Buy combined tickets with Jerónimos Monastery to save time and money.

Jerónimos Monastery

Step into the nation’s golden age at Jerónimos Monastery, built to celebrate Portugal’s maritime successes and to hold Vasco da Gama’s tomb. The complicated details, like carved sea motifs and Gothic spires, are a photographer’s dream (so bring your camera!).

• Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

• Tickets: Around €18; get combo tickets with Belém Tower to save money.

• Carla’s tip: Don’t skip a visit to the Church of Santa Maria to admire Vasco da Gama’s tomb.

Castelo de São Jorge

For exceptional views of the city, visit Castelo de São Jorge, a medieval castle on one of Lisbon’s seven hills, built by the Moors in the 11th century and later used as a royal palace. History buffs will love to explore its towers and archaeological sites, and wander among remnants of ancient walls.

• Open: Daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm from November to February and 9:00 am to 9:00 pm from March to October.

• Tickets: Around €15.

• Carla’s tip: Don’t miss the resident peacocks roaming the grounds!

Praça do Comércio & Baixa district

Commerce Square, Lisbon

The Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square) is Lisbon’s grandest plaza. It was built after the 1755 earthquake that devastated the city. The yellow-arcaded square faces the Tagus River, and it’s marked by the iconic Arco da Rua Augusta triumphal arch. Carla recommends starting at the gateway to Lisbon’s trendy Baixa district, ideal for a relaxing stroll, shopping, or simply enjoying a coffee.

• Open: Praça do Comércio is accessible 24/7. The Arco da Rua Augusta viewpoint is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.

• Tickets: Free to explore the square; Arch ticket around €5. The Elevador de Santa Justa opens from 7:00 am–11:00 pm.

Carla’s tip: Don’t miss the Elevador de Santa Justa, a neo-Gothic lift with skyline views.

LX Factory

LX Factory is a former 19th-century textile factory. It has transformed into Lisbon’s hippest creative hub over time. Inside, you’ll find over 50 shops, restaurants, bars, and other creative businesses. There’s always something new to discover. A haven for art lovers, foodies, and shoppers to experience Lisbon’s modern side, with its quirky shops, street art, and hip restaurants.

• Open: Hours differ between shops and restaurants, so it’s best to check the official website for up-to-date timings.

• Tickets: Free entry; some events may have fees.

• Carla’s tip: Check the event calendar for live music or pop-up markets.

Our carefully designed Portugal tour with flights of Lisbon, Porto, and Sintra allows you to explore without any hassle. It covers all the must-see attractions in Lisbon while also taking you to Porto’s wine cellars and Sintra’s fairytale palaces.

Hidden gems & local secrets

If you’re planning this trip, you may already have Tram 28 or a panoramic view from Castelo de São Jorge on your things to do in Lisbon list, but some of the best experiences are well-kept local secrets. Our itineraries already feature unique experiences by our experts, like Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, but if you wish to explore further, here are Carla’s hidden gems in Lisbon, with unforgettable experiences and Instagram-worthy moments.

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Alfama’s Fado Houses

Alfama’s Fado Houses are among the top hidden gems in Lisbon. You’ll experience authentic Fado music at intimate venues scattered throughout. The music is raw and heartfelt, immersing you in local culture amidst narrow streets lined with pastel-hued houses.

Clube de Fado and Mesa de Frades are Carla’s favorites for savoring traditional Portuguese cuisine while listening to the melancholic melodies of the Portuguese guitar. (Make sure you arrive early to snag a good seat and pair your evening with a glass of local wine!)

Carmo Convent Ruins

The ruined Carmo Convent is one of Lisbon’s most evocative sites. It was once the city’s grandest medieval building. These Gothic ruins are a reminder of the 1755 earthquake that devastated Lisbon. The open-air structure and Carmo Archaeological Museum create a unique atmosphere. It’s open Monday to Saturday. Tickets are around €7.

Underground Roman galleries

Hidden beneath the streets of Baixa, these ancient Roman tunnels are only open for tours a few times a year, with very limited space (it’s tricky to catch, but Carla suggests following Museu de Lisboa’s socials and subscribing to their newsletter to get the exact dates and hours as soon as they are announced). These ancient vaults, built in the 1st century AD, supported public buildings in the Roman city of Olisipo. It’s a rare chance to step back in time and explore Lisbon’s Roman past. Carla recommends you book as soon as you get wind of a tour date because they sell out fast!

Thieves Market (Feira da Ladra)

Lisbon’s famous flea market is a treasure trove of antiques, vintage items, and quirky finds. It runs every Tuesday and Saturday in Campo de Santa Clara, near São Vicente de Fora, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. This market has been operational since 1272. From hand-painted azulejos and vintage vinyl to handmade cork goods, Carla thinks it’s one of the best places to visit in Lisbon for unique souvenirs.

Casa do Alentejo

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to eat at a secret Moorish palace hidden in Lisbon? Here’s a vibrant cultural hub that promotes Alentejo traditions. A space that hosts book readings, poetry sessions, art competitions, and themed exhibitions (Don’t miss its regular cultural afternoons and social dances!). Inside, you’ll find stunning tilework, a grand courtyard, and a restaurant serving traditional petiscos like moelas(chicken gizzards), codfish cakes, and Farinheira. Casa do Alentejo is free to enter and rarely crowded, a truly hidden gem.

Carla suggests you take your time exploring these hidden gems in Lisbon for the full experience. Chat with vendors at Feira da Ladra, linger over a meal at Casa do Alentejo, and let the Fado music move you.

Best food & wine experiences

For Carla, Lisbon’s culinary scene is a delicious blend of tradition and innovation, and even better, it’s one of Europe’s top five least expensive destinations. So you can savor everything from street eats to fine dining, including fresh seafood and world-class wines, without breaking the bank!

(Opening hours and prices were accurate at the time of writing. Please check the official websites for the latest updates)

Time Out Market

This lively food hall in the Cais do Sodré district is a one-stop shop for Lisbon’s best flavors. Here you should try picanha sandwiches, grilled sardines, creamy bacalhau à brás (cod casserole), and decadent desserts from top chefs all under one roof.

• Open: Daily from 10:00 am to midnight.
• Cost: Dishes are around €5–15.

Bifana & Pastel de Nata

No trip to Lisbon is complete without these iconic treats:

• Bifana: Head to Café Beira Gare near Rossio Square for a juicy pork sandwich marinated in garlic and spices (~€3).

Consider O Trevo in Praça Luís de Camões 48 for the best bifana in Lisbon. Their bifana stands out for simplicity and deliciousness.

• Pastel de Nata: Pastéis de Belém serves the gold standard: warm, flaky custard tarts dusted with cinnamon (~€1.20 each). Pair it with a bica (espresso) for a classic combo.

“My best advice… eat a pastel de nata in every city!” and Lisbon is the best place to start: try Manteigaria and Fabrica de Nata. Visit Pasteis de Belém at Rua de Belém, 84 for the original version (though expect long lines). Each place offers a unique take on this beloved Portuguese treat.

Michelin-star restaurants

If you are looking to elevate your palate, here are some of Lisbon’s acclaimed restaurants:

• Belcanto: It’s a two Michelin-star gem in Lisbon’s Chiado district. Chef José Avillez blends traditional and modern Portuguese flavors into innovative dishes.
• Alma: Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa’s one-star spot blends bold flavors with finesse, like octopus with smoked paprika.

Best wine bars & tasting experiences

If you’ve come all this way for Portugal’s wine, you’ll find its regions shine in Lisbon’s bars:

• Nova Wine Bar: A cozy spot with over 200 Portuguese wines by the glass.

• By the Wine: Sleek and stylish, offering reds from Douro and crisp whites from Minho.

• Tours to Douro Valley: Exoticca’s day trips take you right to the source: vineyards framed by terraced hills, with tastings of velvety ports and robust reds.

Carla’s tip: Embrace Lisbon’s petiscos (tapas) culture and try as many as you can. Order a spread of small plates and share with friends over a bottle of vinho verde or a refreshing ginjinha (cherry liqueur) shot.

Adventure & outdoor activities

If you are more of an outdoor person, you will love the variety of activities in Lisbon. Thanks to its year-round sunshine, mild climate, and unique setting between the Atlantic Ocean and the hills, the city offers beaches, natural parks, and scenic viewpoints all within easy reach. It’s an ideal hub for adventure and exploration.

Surfing in Cascais

Surfers shouldn’t miss Cascais. Just 30 minutes by train from Lisbon, it features world-class waves at Praia do Guincho and Carcavelos. Carla recommends local schools like Surf Lisbon and Cascais Surf School for lessons and rentals for all ages.

Sintra day trip

A visit to Sintra makes for one of the best day trips from Lisbon. Many of our itineraries take you on a 40-minute train ride to this UNESCO-listed town of fairytale castles and forests. Highlights include Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira. Palácio da Pena is a colorful 19th-century Romanticist palace with stunning views. Quinta da Regaleira offers a more mystical experience. It features mysterious gardens, underground tunnels, symbolic structures, and unique wells.

Hiking in Arrábida Natural Park

As one of our travelers put it, “Bring your walking shoes and be prepared to be wowed!!”…because Arrábida Natural Park truly delivers! With 185 diverse trails for hiking and walking, ranging from scenic, family-friendly routes to more challenging paths. This coastal park, an hour south of Lisbon, offers trails through pine forests and limestone cliffs overlooking gorgeous waters. For amazing sea views and quiet picnic spots, Carla suggests you take the Serra da Arrábida loop.

Sailing on the Tagus River

For a different view of the city, hop on a sunset cruise to see Lisbon’s landmarks, like the 25 de Abril Bridge, Belém Tower, and Christ the King statue, bathed in golden light. Boats range from small yachts to group catamarans.

Our Portugal vacation packages include guided outdoor excursions, from surfing lessons to hiking tours. Behind every activity are guides known for their “extensive knowledge, exceptional organization, warmth and friendliness, local connections, problem-solving skills, and language proficiency.”

Best itinerary options

Portugal welcomes visitors with many schedules. Choose an itinerary that suits your pace when considering things to do in Lisbon.

Wondering how many days in Lisbon are enough? While you can see the highlights in a day or two, three to seven days lets you soak in the city’s charm and explore more.

We’ve created tailored Lisbon itineraries to make the most of your time below.

1-day itinerary

Focus on the essentials if you’ve only got 24 hours in Lisbon.

• Morning: Start in Belém with a visit to the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Make sure to grab a pastel de nata at Pastéis de Belém.

• Afternoon: Head to the Alfama District. Walk the cobblestone streets, enjoy the views from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, and visit the Castelo de São Jorge.

• Evening: Finish with dinner at a local Fado house for Portuguese music and culture.

3-day itinerary

Three days let you explore Lisbon’s charm a little deeper.

• Day 1: Follow the itinerary above to hit the major landmarks in your first 24 hours.

• Day 2: Spend your morning in Baixa and Chiado. Visit the Praça do Comércio, Rua Augusta, and the trendy shops and cafes. Then, check out the Carmo Convent Ruins and take a ride on Tram 28. End at Time Out Market for a feast of local dishes.

• Day 3: Take a day trip to Sintra. Visit the Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira. Stop by Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point, on your way back to Lisbon.

7-day itinerary

A week in Lisbon lets you explore the city and its surroundings at a relaxed pace.

• Day 1–3: Follow the itinerary above for your first three days.

• Day 4: Head to Cascais for a beach day. Try surfing, walk along the Boca do Inferno cliffs, or relax by the sea.

• Day 5: Visit Arrábida Natural Park. Hike the trails, swim in the clear waters, and eat fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant.
• Day 6: Take a Douro Valley wine tour on your sixth day. Visit vineyards, taste world-class wines, and enjoy the landscapes.
• Day 7: Spend your final day discovering hidden gems in Lisbon. Visit LX Factory, browse the Feira da Ladra flea market, and marvel at Casa do Alentejo.

From quick getaways to week-long adventures, there’s no wrong way to experience Lisbon, find the itinerary that best matches your style from our collection of Portugal itineraries.

FAQs & travel tips

Need more info? Here are our top Lisbon sightseeing tips and answers to commonly asked questions to help you make the most of your trip.

When is the best time to visit Lisbon?

Here are the best times to visit Lisbon:

• Spring (March to May) and fall (September to October): Mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

• Summer (June to August): Hot and busy, ideal for beaches.

• Winter (November to February): Cool, quiet, and great for indoor sightseeing. A great option to spend your Christmas holidays!

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• Tip: April or October strike the perfect balance, offering mild sunny weather, fewer crowds, and better value than the busy summer months.

How do you get around Lisbon?

Lisbon’s public transport is affordable and efficient:

• Metro: Fast for longer trips (~€1.50/ride).

• Trams: Scenic, especially Tram 28 (~€3).

• Buses: Reach outer areas (~€2).

• Taxis/Uber: Handy for short hops (~€5–10).

• Tip: Get a Viva Viagem card (~€6.40/day) for unlimited rides.

Is Lisbon expensive?

Lisbon is affordable compared to other cities in Europe. A budget traveler can get by on €50–70 per day, while mid-range travelers might spend €100–150 daily. Meals at local restaurants cost €10–15, and public transport is cheap.

Save money by visiting free attractions like the viewpoints of Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, and trying local favorites like bifanas or pastéis de bacalhau from street stalls instead of restaurants.

What’s the best way to travel between Lisbon and Porto?

The most common way to travel between Lisbon and Porto is by train, which takes about three hours. Buses are cheaper but slower, taking around four hours. If you’re short on time, consider flying, as it’s just a one-hour flight.

Reviews from millions of Tripadvisor travelers place Exoticca in the top 10% worldwide, earning us a spot amongst the 2025 Travelers’ Choice Award winners. Among them was Jolynta, who shared about their trip to Portugal: “We came back with amazing memories that will live with us forever“. And we’d love for you to enjoy the same great unforgettable moments. That’s why we’re sharing everything you need to know for a memorable trip to Lisbon. You’ll find, hidden gems, essential sightseeing tips, unmissable food and wine experiences and some other things to do in Portugal beyond the capital. 

These are the kind of trips that leave travelers saying they returned with ‘amazing memories that will live with us forever.’