Lisbon, Europe’s second oldest capital after Athens, is increasingly popping up on the top of the best city lists.
There are many things to do in Lisbon, which is also one of Europe’s sunniest capital cities.
The city is rich in history, culture and an ever-growing culinary reputation. The picturesque capital offers stunning vistas from every angle.
With beautiful sandy beaches accessible within 30 minutes, there are many Lisbon attractions to enjoy.
This Lisbon travel guide highlights some of the best things to do in Lisbon.
From indulging in unique Portuguese dishes, including pasteis de nata (custard tarts), soulful Fado music and taking nearby day trips, the list of things to do is endless.
Use this Lisbon travel guide as a starting point to plan your trip. Lisbon is one of our favorite cities, and here’s how to make the most of your stay.
Things to do in Lisbon
Savor the Best Pastéis de Nata in Lisbon and Stroll in Chiado
No trip to Lisbon would be complete without tasting the iconic Pastéis de Nata.
One of the best places to taste pastéis de nata is Manteigaria.
This bakery, who owes its name from an ex-butter shop, is dedicated to the making and selling of pastéis de nata.
Made right in front of you, you can watch the preparation process while enjoying your pastry.
For the best experience, time your visit with the ring of bells from the store, signaling the arrival of hot and freshly baked pastéis de nata.
To eat pastéis de nata like a local, add cinnamon on top of the warm custard pies and have them with a bica, local Portuguese coffee similar to an espresso.
Mouthwatering pasteis de nata and bicaLocated in the heart of Chiado, from Manteigueira, enjoy strolling along the Lisbon city center streets.
You cannot miss A Brasileira where Fernando Pessoa statue stands. The famous Portuguese poet was a regular at the cafe.
Chiado is famous for its cultural sites like the national theater and Chiado museum as well as its shopping streets.
You can always stop for lunch at Cantinho de Avillez, the famous Portuguese’s chef contemporary restaurant.
Authentic Food Quest Tip: One of the best ways to explore Portuguese culinary culture at a deeper level is to take Lisbon food tours. With a local guide, you’ll explore various neigborhoods while learning about the local food culture in Lisbon. Check out our indepth guide of 6 of the best Libson food tours to try.
Sample Traditional Portuguese Food at Time Out Market
The Time Out Market in Lisbon has become one of the most visited and talked about culinary spots in the city.
Since its opening in 2014, the food hall attracts visitors and locals alike.
The canteen like food hall has several stalls offering a variety of local Portuguese food, drinks, desserts and products.
On one end are stalls from a few Michelin-star chefs representing different regions of the country. All around are dozens of stalls selling regional specialties.
You can find bacalhau prepared in many ways as well as stands dedicated to local dry meats, sweets and more.
In the interior of the large open room are communal tables, perfect for those eating in groups.
Wines from different regions of Portugal as well as craft beers were also available in the center.
The Time Out market is the perfect stop to refuel while sightseeing Lisbon anytime of the day.
Keep in mind that the lunch time can get really crowded and you might have to wait to eat. We recommend going off-hours for a tranquil experience.
Busy afternoon at Time Out Market the most famous Lisbon food marketTake A Lisbon Cooking Class
Taking a Lisbon cooking class and learning how to make Portuguese traditional dishes is one of the most fun things to do in Lisbon.
If you enjoy pasteis de nata, you might as well learn to make them and replicate it at home.
Or, if you prefer to learn how to make the famous cod fish and bacalhau dishes, get hands-on and learn to prepare them the Portuguese way.
We recommend Cookly, a website that offers authentic cooking classes all around the world.
In Lisbon, there are various classes offered from making pastries, to cooking traditional dishes and gourmet meals.
Some of the classes include a market tour, giving you a glimpse into the local life and food culture.
For something new and different to do in Lisbon, learn how to make traditional Portuguese food.
Listen to Fado with Traditional Petiscos in Barrio Alto
Fado music, a symbol of Portugal, is known as the soul of Portuguese music.
The melancholic tunes and lyrical musical style of Fado originates from Alfama and Bairro Alto, Lisbon’s old neighborhoods.
Originally, Fado was performed at infamous bars where the city’s poor and sailors gathered.
Nowadays, Fado is performed at well sought-out place where Lisbon visitors gather to listen to Fado performers.
You will find most of the Fado venues in the core of Alfama neighborhood as well as in some part of Bairro Alto.
Fado is typically performed in local restaurants or more touristic venues. However, space and tables are generally limited.
Our recommendation is to go to Mascote da Atalaia which has a local and intimate atmosphere.
Enjoy the melancholic Fado tunes with simple Portuguese food, local petiscos and wine.
Expressive fado music at Mascote da Atalaia Ride on Lisbon Tramways and Funiculars and Admire the City Views
Lisbon, built on seven hills and next to the Tagus river, has many miradors or viewpoints with breathtaking views of the city.
Some of the most awe-inspiring miradors are Mirador de Graca or Mirador of Santa Catarina.
The yellow tramways are iconic in Lisbon and worth riding at least once or twice on your trip.
The Tram 28 links the neighborhoods Campo de Ourique to Graca. While Tram 15 links Lisbon city center to Belem, where you to go for Pastéis de Belém.
Know that these two lines can get really crowded in the Summer.
Alternatively you can explore local Lisbon neighborhoods, on Trams 12, 18, 24 or 25. The cost for a one way ride on the tram is 3 €.
Linking the lower districts to the upper parts of the city, Lisbon has funiculars also called ascensors.
The most famous is Gloria Funicular, a national monument, built in 1902.
It connects Restauradores Square with rua San Pedro de Alcântara in Bairro Alto offering spectacular views of the city.
Bica Funicular, which opened in 1892, links Rua de São Paulo with Rua do Loreto.
See the best views of Lisbon, plan your tram and funicular routes using Carris, the local transportation website.
Lisbon's iconic yellow tramEnjoy Lanche at a Pasteleria
One of the pleasures of Lisbon is taking the time to sit at one of the many cafes and pastelerias in the city.
Portuguese enjoy light snacks in the middle of the afternoon also called lanche.
At lanche, you can enjoy either a savory treat or sweet snacks depending on your mood and appetite.
The savory treats are also called salgados. You will find different types of sandwiches. Choose from cold or warm options, like bifana, tosta mixta, croquettes, a type of fried meat roll, or other savory doughy pastries filled with meat.
Sweet treats will extend beyond pasteis de nata with different cakes and pastries of multiple shapes and forms.
Two of our favorites are the salami de chocolate and bolos de arroz.
Accompany your treats with the local beer or red wine and you will quickly adjust to the Portuguese way of life.
Afternoon snack with Portuguese beer, coffee and Portuguese rice muffinVisit Lisbon Museums and Historic Sites
To get a better appreciation for Lisbon’s cultural heritage, visit any of the museums and cultural sites the city offers.
One of our favorite museum is the Museu dos Azulejos or National Tile Museum. This art museum is dedicated to the traditional tilework of Portugal.
Another unique LIsbon museum is the Fado museum celebrating Portugal’s traditional music.
There are many interactive stations with videos retracing fado’s history and audio guides that allows you to listen to fado songs.
The restaurant of the museum also offers live Fado performances.
Another favorite site to visit is the impressive medieval castle Castelo De Sao Jorge located in the center of Lisbon. From the towers, you will enjoy panoramic views over Lisbon.
Leisurely walking down the hills from the castle, you will get to the Lisbon Cathedral also known as Se de Lisboa.
The cathedral, classified as a National monument, has survived many earthquakes since it was built in 1147.
After going through a succession of renovations, it is now a mix of different architectural styles.
Lisbon doesn’t lack religious sites. The Carmo Church is certainly one of the most impressive sites we visited in Lisbon.
This open-air museum is the gothic ruins of the Carmelite church which was never rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of Lisbon in 1955. It is now an archaeological site and museum.
Dramatic gothic ruins at Carmo Convent and ChurchTrending Lisbon Tours
Popular Day Trips from Lisbon
One of the best things to do in Lisbon is actually to get outside of the city.
Lisbon offers many amazing day trips to choose from. Explore the beautiful coastline, taste wine in the northern region or tour the natural parks.
You can find the right activity that suits your liking. Here are the best day trips from Lisbon not to miss.
Visit Sintra A Lisbon Day Trip in Wonderland
Sintra is rightfully known as the wonderland of Portugal. It is a long time royal destination, with lush forests and magical palaces.
Only 40 mins by train from Lisbon, this Unesco World Heritage Site offers the perfect haven for a Lisbon day trip.
You want to visit the restored Palácio Nacional da Pena as well as the Castelo dos Mouros, an ancient castle perched on the crest of the mountain.
The town of Sintra itself has an impressive Gothic palace, Palácio Nacional de Sintra.
Spend some time walking the cobblestoned streets and exploring the shops adjacent to the town square.
Sintra is also known for its sweet treats called the queijada de Queijada de Sintra and the Travesseiro.
Don’t miss an opportunity to taste these sweet delights as you take in the Sintra sights.
Read More How to Eat Your Way in Sintra in One Day
Rosemary and Claire enthralled by the beauty of SintraCascais A Coastal Resort Town
Cascais is the perfect day trip from Lisbon for seafood and beach lovers.
A former fishing village, this charming town has sandy beaches and a beautiful marina.
Seafood and freshly-caught fish are served in the traditional and upscale restaurants of its historic center.
By the waterfront, you can visit the fishing harbour, the marina and the restored fort.
Before you head back to Lisbon, take your time to linger on the beautiful beaches of Praia da Conceição or Praia da Duquesa.
Read our full article for additional ideas for the best day trips from Lisbon
Trending Day Trips from Lisbon
What to Eat in Lisbon
Lisbon, an increasingly popular European destination, offers a number of amazing Portuguese dishes.
Generally speaking, the food is unpretentious, made with seasonal fresh ingredients and is quite affordable.
Eating the local Portuguese food is one of the best things to do in Lisbon.
While this list is not comprehensive, here are a few unique Portuguese specialties you don’t want to miss.
Pasteis de Nata and Pasteis de Belem
Portugal’s signature sweet is known worldwide and is one of the things to do in Lisbon.
Known as Portuguese custard tarts, these flaky tarts with a soft,melt-in-your mouth center and carefully caramelized surface, will beckon you from every window.
Pasteis de Nata, or Pastel de Nata if you are talking about them singularly are not all made alike.
The most famous place to eat pastéis de nata in Lisbon is the district of Santa Maria de Belém, and specifically the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém.
Invented in the 19th century by the monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, these are the only pastries that can be called pastéis de Belém.
Everywhere else, they go by pasteis de nata.
Absolutely amazing Pastéis de Nata from Manteigaria in Lisbon Petiscos, Grilled Sardines and Seafood
You are probably already familiar with tapas, small snacks or appetizers very popular in Spain.
In Portugal, petiscos are the equivalent of tapas. These are little bites to get your appetite going.
Sardines are some of the most popular and traditional petiscos.
You can have them grilled or from the colorful Portuguese cans or conservas.
Simply top your slice of Portuguese bread with sardines or other seafood delights and wash it down with a refreshing glass of vinho verde or Portuguese green wine.
Delicious sardines in a curry sauceSavor Bacalhau Cooked in Many Ways
The Portuguese are obsessed with bacalhau or codfish and it is the one dish that screams Portugal.
They say there are over 365 different ways of cooking bacalhau, one for each day of the week.
While in Portugal, try bacalhau and find your favorite preparation style.
Our favorite is Bacalhau à Brás. This is a wonderful combination of bacalhau pieces mixed together with potatoes, eggs, onions, olives, chopped parsley and garlic.
For more about Bacalhau, read the 5 Authentic Ways You Want to Eat Bacalhau in Portugal
Creative and delicious Bacalhau com Natas dishBest Restaurants in Lisbon
Lisbon offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes to choose from.
From Michelin-star restaurants to neighborhood restaurants and cafes, there are many options for food travelers at every budget in Lisbon.
One of our favorite things to do in Lisbon is to dive into the Lisbon flavors at traditional Portuguese restaurants.
Here are our recommendations for some of the best traditional places to eat local Lisbon specialties.
Carvoaria Jacto – Portuguese Steakhouse
Tucked in an unpretentious street in Penha de Franca, a few blocks from Intendente metro station, you will find Carvoaria Jacto.
Join the local crowd in the large restaurant dining room where lively conversations are taking place.
This local Portuguese Steakhouse, very popular with locals, is known for its excellent meat prepared the Portuguese way.
Meat lovers won’t be disappointed. You can choose from different cuts of beef, lamb or pork.
Everything is served with excellent Portuguese red wines at reasonable prices.
You’ll also find a nice selection of seafood dishes, including the famous bacalhau, if meat isn’t an option for you.
With that comes a complimentary fresh and delicious salad buffet.
Reserve some room for the enticing selection of dessert to bring a close to an excellent Portuguese meal experience at Carvoaria Jacto.
A generous serving of Portuguese pork ribsMadragoa Café – Classic Portuguese Food in Lisbon
Madragoa Café is located in the charming and artsy Santos neighborhood.
You will be greeted in the warm and cozy environment by Cristina, the restaurant owner. The dining room is intimate with a classic and vintage decor.
The menu features and interesting selection of Portuguese regional dishes as well as Cristina’s homestyle cuisine.
The dishes are prepared fresh and made to order. Cristina is always available to guide you if you are unsure of what dish to have.
Don’t forget to leave some room for the excellent traditional Portuguese dessert.
This is the perfect place to have a taste of Portugal’s regional foods in a quaint and off the beaten path neighborhood.
Warm and intimate interior at Madragoa CafeMercado de Campo de Ourique Where Locals Go
Campo de Ourique is a neighborhood known to locals as a foodie haven. This is where new restaurants and concepts are tested and launched.
In the core of the neighborhood is the modern farmers market, Mercado de Campo de Ourique.
During the day, you will find a variety of food vendors, selling fresh produce, fresh fish, cheese and meats.
It is also the perfect place to come for lunch, an afternoon snack or even dinner.
In addition to the fresh produce section, there are food stalls serving prepared food like tapas or petiscos, Portuguese dishes, salads, drinks and more.
The quality of the food is excellent. It is a great place to sample regional food specialties in a casual environment.
Read more recommendations on where to eat in Lisbon, in our article 10 Authentic Restaurants to Eat like a Local in Lisbon
Stalls and tables at Mercado Campo de OuriqueLisbon Travel Tips
How To Get Around
Lisbon is well served by local transportation. In addition to the historic trams and funiculars, Lisbon also has an underground network with the metro system.
You can also use the bus system to provide access to areas not served by the metro.
The public transportation network is pretty safe and clean. And we never found the buses or metro too crowded even during the rush hours.
We highly recommend exploring Lisbon neighborhoods by foot. This is the best way to navigate the meandrous streets and narrow staircases.
To use the public transportation, you can purchase a rechargeable card called Viva Viagem.
It costs 0.50 € and can be purchased at any metro station. Load up the card for single rides or day passes.
Authentic Food Quest Tip: One of the best ways to get around Lisbon is to use a Lisboa Card. This card offers free transportation around the city as well as free entrance or discounts to several museums and cultural attractions. You can choose a Lisboa card with transport, based on the number of days you are staying in the city.
Take the tram 28 to visit GracaLisbon Safety for Women Travelers
Lisbon is one of the safest capitals in Europe and crime is relatively low. We never felt unsafe in the city even at late hours or while visiting neighborhoods outside the city center.
However, you do want to watch out for petty theft like pickpocketing and use common sense.
On the trams, particularly Tram 25 and Tram 28, you want to carefully hold onto your bags and wallets. While on the beach, don’t leave your personal belongings unattended.
Watch out for drug dealers at all times of the day. Rosemary was approached by dodgy dealer in the middle of the afternoon at the very frequented Praça do Comércio. Simply ignore them and walk away.
In general, Lisbon is safe for female travelers, solo travelers or older visitors.
Authentic Food Quest Tip: Whenever you travel, you want to make sure you are covered just in case anything goes wrong. Even if you are only gone for a short trip you should always travel with insurance. We use and recommend Allianz Tavel Insurance. Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review.
Where to Stay in Lisbon for Food Lovers
Finding the best place to stay in Lisbon can be quite daunting in Portugal’s capital and largest city.
To help you get the most out of your trip, we recommend the following hotels and apartments for where to stay in Lisbon for food lovers.
Budget Friendly
Bairro Alto Bronze of Art Apartments in Bairro Alto
Photographer’s house in Graca
Mid Range
Be Poet Baixa Hotel in Lisbon city center
Casa das Janelas com Vista in Bairro Alto
Luxury
Hotel do Chiado in Lisbon city center
Memmo Príncipe Real in Principe Real
To see more options, check out our full article the five best areas where to stay in Lisbon to help you find the perfect base for your culinary adventures in Lisbon.
Authentic Food Quest Travel Tip: If you prefer to stay in an apartment or with locals, we recommend Airbnb. Simply click on the Airbnb link and get your $43 discount towards your booking.
Looking For More Things to Do in Portugal?
Take a look at a few of our top articles to explore more of the local flavors in this gastronomically rich country.
The Best Things to Do in Porto for Food Lovers
Fall in Love with Douro Valley and the Best Wines in Portugal
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Claire is a culinary explorer, digital nomad and engineer brain behind Authentic Food Quest. Together with her partner, Rosemary, they created Authentic Food Quest to help people find the best local food on their travels. For over 5 years they have eaten their way through South America, Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America while sharing the best local food experiences on their website. Authentic Food Quest has been featured on top publications such as Huffington Post, Business Insider, and Honest Cooking. Claire and Rosemary are also authors of Authentic Food Quest Argentina and Authentic Food Quest Peru, available on Amazon.
I like your post. I am planning to visit Lisbon in this new year.
Perfect. Stella. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions as you plan your trip. Thanks for your feedback. Cheers.
I love people who are adventurous when trying food. You picked some good looking food. I don’t know if Lisbon is on my list to travel.
Such a great post for food lovers. Hope to visit Lisbon soon x
Thank you, Marina.
Eating is definitely my favorite way to experience a new country! I haven’t visited Portugal yet but it’s in my list.
Could not agree more with you, Christa. Now you have the perfect guide for your eventual trip. Cheers.
That would be so cool to take a Portuguese cooking class in Lisbon! Talk about a once in a lifetime opportunity!
Thanks, Bre. Hope you get to take one soon. Cheer.
I would love to sample some Portuguese food at The Time Out Market. There’s so much to see and do in Lisbon and I’d love to visit one day.
The Time Out Market in Lisbon is a great place to start your Portuguese food exploration. So much good food and centrally located to a number of attractions. Hope your travels take you to Lisbon soon. Cheers.
I am certainly all about food. I would love to try these. I am always eager to go on food tours and try foods from different areas.
I’m definitely a food person so this is a great post for me. If I ever make it there I’ll know what to eat!
I have never been to Portugal but the many foods and eateries seem second to none. I have to get there someday and try to eat at that market.
Oh wow what some amazing sounding things to do! I totally admit that picture of the pasteis de nata and bica did get my mouth water it looks delicious. I like that it is easy to get around Lisbon as well!
Thanks, Sarah. Glad you enjoyed the article and the tips as well. Hope your travels take you to Lisbon soon. Cheers.
I would love to explore Lisbon some day. I love food markets where you can walk through and see all of the local cuisines offered. I would love to take a cooking class too, to really immerse myself in that part of the culture. I do hope I can get there some day!
That’s wonderful to hear Theresa. If you look, you can find great flight deals to Lisbon. Keep an eye out and hopefully, you’ll get to Lisbon sooner than you think. Thanks for stopping by.
I would like to visit Lisbon next year! I am always curious to eat and try the local food! Thanks for the tips!
You are most welcome Catalina. Happy to help with the tips and please feel free to reach out with any questions as you plan your trip next year. Cheers.
The food looks amazing! We love food and we like trying different cuisines, but we haven’t tried Portuguese food yet. Wish we have a Portuguese restaurant here.
So glad you enjoyed the article, Lynndee Nando’s chicken is a popular Portuguese chain in the US. Look for it on your domestic travels and savor Portuguese flavors. Cheers.
This definitely sounds like a foodies paradise for a travel destination. I would love to try the fresh pastries… So cool they signal when they have fresh products.
Thanks, Kelli for stopping by. Lisbon is indeed a culinary treat 🙂
Lisbon sounds like such a great place to explore! Helps to fully appreciate the history and culture with tips from someone who’s already been there.
You are most welcome, Shelley. Hope your travels take you to Lisbon soon. Thanks for stopping by.
Now I want to visit Lisbon! I would love to taste everything especially the Pastéis de Nata. It looks so good!
Thanks, Ruth and glad our article left you hungry for Pasteis de Nata. They are indeed delicious and a must-eat when you visit!! Cheers.
The sites are gorgeous but the food looks absolutely amazing! I’ve never been but it’s on my bucket list for one of these days.
So glad you enjoyed the article, Rena. Hope you get to make your dream of visiting Lisbon come true soon. Thanks for stopping by. Cheers.
Oh I love to travel! I’m a foodie and love to experience local foods and restaurants on the go. I’d love to visit Lisbon. The food looks amazing!
Thanks, Esther. Any plans to visit Portugal soon? Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have. Cheers.
I love exploring a new place by eating my way through it! All of your photos have me drooling. I think I need to plan a trip soon.
Thanks for the pointers on where to eat and stay in Lisbon, Portugal. I’ve always wanted to visit, but the tickets can get pricey.
Glad you enjoyed the article. Planning in advance does help to get the best deals. Cheers 🙂