Lisbon may be one of Europe’s smaller capital cities, but it punches far above its weight in charm, character and crooked cobbles. Lisbon is a city of seven hills, each hiding panoramic viewpoints, secret staircases, and the occasional out-of-breath tourist marvelling at the view. From the fairytale alleyways of Alfama to the elegant avenues of Baixa and the trendy buzz of the Bairro Alto, Lisbon wears its history like a hand-tailored jacket—well-loved, occasionally frayed, and always stylish.
Ancient trams still rattle through the maze of medieval streets, while locals gather in tiled cafés to discuss politics and football over strong bica coffee and sweet pastéis de nata. The Belém district, once the launchpad of explorers, now tempts travellers with grand monasteries, riverside walks and Portugal’s most famous custard tarts.
Marvel at the intricacy of Azulejo tiles, sip Ginja liqueur in a hole-in-the-wall bar, or get gloriously lost among the market stalls and antique shops of Campo de Santa Clara. Catch a melancholic strain of Fado music drifting from a tavern doorway or escape the city buzz with a day trip to Sintra’s palaces or the windswept beaches of Cascais.
Lisbon is compact but bursting with cultural attractions, historic landmarks, and unmissable things to do. Lisbon is a city that rewards wanderers, delights the senses, and serves up just enough chaos to keep you smiling.
For the curious traveller, MADABOUTPORTUGAL.COM and our sister site MADABOUTLISBON.COM are your friendly companions—offering insider tips on Lisbon’s top attractions, best accommodation, and how to make the most of your time (and money) in Portugal’s sun-kissed capital.
LISBON'S TOP ATTRACTIONSLisbon's castle stands sentinel over the city and offers amazing views.
Built to commemorate Vasco da Gama's epic sea voyage to India.
Lisbon's most iconic monument
A great way for the whole family to spend the day at Europe's largest aquarium.
A large square in downtown Lisbon and a hub of activity.
A Neo-Gothic masterpiece carrying people from the Baixa district to the Largo do Carmo on top of the hill.
This rickety old tram is a great way to experience old Lisbon as it traverses steep and narrow streets.
A immersive large square in the lower town which during it's lifetime has played a pivotal role in Portugal's history.
Be a savvy traveller and beat the queues at the Tourist Offices in Lisbon. Buy your Lisbon Card online in the comfort of your home before you travel. A voucher will be sent to your email and mobile phone to be redeemed at Lisbon airport as you arrive, saving you valuable holiday time.
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| View over the Alfama district
Lisbon is defined by its distinctive neighbourhoods. They have been shaped, either through design or by the passage of time. The Alfama still maintains it's original street layout from Moorish times, it's narrow alleys echoing the soulful laments of Fado music. The Bairro Alto comes alive at night when the streets take on a carnival atmosphere and revellers party into the early hours. The plush Baixa district, or downtown, is an 18th century reconstruction of the city following the devastating earthquake of 1755. Its smart streets and squares built on a grid system. It is where you'll find many boutique shops, top hotels and the start/endpoints for many of the city's old trams.
A short distance away is the district of Belém which is home to the impressive Mosteiro dos Jerónimos monastery and other iconic monuments dedicated to Portugal's great age of discovery. To the north is the district of Parque das Nações. Once the site of Expo 98. The architecture takes on a more contemporary appearance, each with a nautical theme.
For the Portuguese, the day's main meal is at lunchtime. Time is taken to relax and savour great food and good company whilst shading from the midday sun. Lunch usually consists of three courses served between 12h00 and 15h00. Look out for lunchtime set menu deals. Evening meal times are similar to Northern Europe. Most restaurants are closed by midnight.
Lisbon is a heterogeneous city. All of Portugal's different regions are represented, each with its own gastronomy traditions. Resulting in a great richness of aromas and tastes. As all over Portugal, the food is based on a Mediterranean diet, as rich as it is healthy, based on bread, olive oil, cheese, meat, fish and a huge variety of snacks.
The ocean offers up delicious fish and the freshest shellfish. Bacalhau (dried and salted cod) can be found on every menu, a fish that has always triggered the creativity of domestic and professional cooks, leading to 1001 different Recipes. In June and July, sardines come into season and stalls grill them all over the city. In autumn Lisbon’s streets are taken over by the aromas of vendors roasting chestnuts .
New generations of chefs have started experimenting with traditional fare creating more fusion and sophisticated dishes, increasing Lisbon's reputation as a culinary capital.
Lisbon Cuisine
Restaurants
Cafés
North of Lisbon and close to the Atlantic is the fairytale town of Sintra, (formerly "Cintra"). It's beautiful setting amongst the forests of the Serra de Sintra and moderate climate have been a draw for royals, poets, romantics and visitors alike for centuries. Lord Byron once described Sintra as a "glorious Eden". Sintra has more palaces, fine houses, castles and other places of interest to shake a proverbial stick at. There is an aura of playfulness here with a touch of the absurd, eccentricity and kitsch, enough to make architectural puritans shudder‚ yet easy to fall in love with. In 1996 Sintra's uniqueness was recognised by UNESCO and was added to its list of heritage sites. Its proximity and ease of reach from Lisbon makes Sintra a popular excursion and an essential part of a trip to Lisbon. Our sister website MADABOUTSINTRA.COM will guide you there and introduce you to the best places to see and top things to do. | www.madaboutsintra.com
Beautiful eclectic architecture and landscaped gardens.
A mighty 10th Century fortification dating from pre-christian times.
One of the most iconic and eccentric Portuguese buildings.
Portugal's oldest palace which pre-dates the country itself.
A place full of mysticism, romance, wonder and magic.
An impressive 18th century palace, a homage to the Baroque style.
A beautiful 16th century convent harmoniously blended into the landscape.
The most westerly point in mainland Europe with breathtaking scenery.
After being picked up outside Sintra's train station you'll be in the safe hands of writer and historian Miguel Boim, an expert on local history and folklore. The tour will take you to Quinta da Regaleira, Palacio de Monserrate, Cabo da Roca, Praia da Adraga, Convento dos Capuchos, Park and National Palace of Pena and the Chalet da Condessa D’Edla, all admission included. Lunch is also included where you'll be treated to traditional Portuguese cuisine and warm hospitality.
(2) | 9 Hr | ✔ Free Cancellation
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The Lisbon region boasts several top-notch sightseeing destinations and this private tour make it simple to discover them. Meet your guide at your local hotel, or at the Sintra train station and set off. You’ll first go on an extensive tour of UNESCO-listed Sintra, famed for its many castles. Then, visit Cabo da Roca for Atlantic views before continuing to the seaside resort town of Cascais. The tour ends when you’re dropped off at your original departure point. Tour Sintra (including the Chalet da Condessa D’Edla), Cabo da Roca, Cascais, and more, all in one day!
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Sintra is one of the most charming, surprising and fascinating places in Portugal. Properly visiting Sintra makes all the difference. It will change your perspective of the town and the cultural landscape of Sintra- a UNESCO World Heritage site. With us, you can get to know the history and stories, the places and secret spots. You don't have to waste precious time in queues to buy tickets. This private tour of up to seven people and ensures that you receive full dedicated attention from your guide.
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Huge medieval monastery 120km North of Lisbon.
Portugal's largest and finest Gothic masterpiece.
The gem in Portugal's riviera, the beautiful resort of Cascais.
The world famous town of pilgrimage.
A vast 18th Century Baroque palace and monestry.
A beautiful medieval village preserved behind it's original town walls.
In the heart of the beautiful Costa Azul is this fabulous coastal town.
The incredible Templar strong hold town full of mysteries and treasures.
Embark on a spiritual journey from Lisbon to three UNESCO-listed monasteries. First, head to the Convent of Christ in Tomar, the headquarters of the Knights Templar. Then visit the Gothic Batalha Monastery, built to commemorate Portugal’s independence, and Alcobaça Monastery, where you can see the tombs of past royalty. Listen to engaging commentary from your guide about the history of each monastery and Portugal. Lisbon hotel pick-up. Admission Tickets Included.
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The medieval town of Obidos is a place of ancient legends and is the first stop off. Next, you will visit the spellbinding, gothic Monastery of Alcobaça, where you will learn its long history. Nazare is well known for its big wave surfing. But this pretty fishing town also boasts golden sands, cobbled streets and traditional fisherman’s houses. Taste fresh fish specialities such as grilled sardines and caldeirada (fish stew). Lisbon hotel or airport pick-up.
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The Knights Templar had a key role in human history, later the Order of the Christ, based in the Convent of Christ in Tomar, had an important impact on the history of Portugal, from its founding to the Discoveries. You will visit three monuments that are part of the Route of the Portuguese Monasteries World Heritage classified by UNESCO: the Convent of Christ in Tomar, the Monastery of Batalha and the Alcobaça Monastery. Time for lunch and explore the cities that we will visit: Tomar, Batalha and Alcobaça! Pick up and drop-off from Lisbon.
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| Lisbon is served by four separate train stations located across the city: |
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| • Rede Expressos: Rede Expressos run comfortable coach services across Portugal connecting most major towns and cities. Website
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