Lisbon, Portugal’s enchanting capital, is a city filled with history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking views. Whether it’s the iconic trams or the historic architecture, Lisbon offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. In this blog, we’ll dive into the top 20 tourist spots you can’t miss.

1. Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)

Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning tower is an emblem of Lisbon’s maritime history. Located on the banks of the Tagus River, it offers fantastic photo opportunities.
History: Built in the early 16th century during the Age of Discoveries, it served as a fortress and ceremonial gateway to the city.
Google Maps Link: Belém Tower
Official Website: Torre de Belém Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €6.
– Children under 12: Free.
– Combo tickets with Jerónimos Monastery available.
Opening Hours:
– October to April: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm.
– May to September: 10:00 am – 6:30 pm.
– Closed on Mondays and major holidays.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 15E to Belém.
– By train: Belém Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Pasteis de Belém – Famous for its traditional custard tarts (Pastéis de Nata).
– Os Jerónimos – Serves traditional Portuguese dishes like Bacalhau à Brás.
Additional Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Combine it with nearby attractions like Jerónimos Monastery.

2. Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)

Description: A magnificent monastery showcasing Manueline architecture. It’s home to the tomb of Vasco da Gama and other historical figures.
History: Built in 1502, the monastery was constructed to honor Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Google Maps Link: Jerónimos Monastery
Official Website: Jerónimos Monastery Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €10.
– Children under 12: Free.
– Combo tickets with Belém Tower available.
Opening Hours:
– October to April: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm.
– May to September: 10:00 am – 6:30 pm.
– Closed on Mondays and major holidays.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 15E to Belém.
– By train: Belém Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Enoteca de Belém – Offers an extensive wine list and refined Portuguese cuisine.
– Café Império – A great spot for casual dining and seafood.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least 1–2 hours to explore the monastery. Book tickets online to skip the long queues.

3. Castelo de São Jorge (São Jorge Castle)

Description: A historic hilltop castle offering panoramic views of Lisbon. The site includes ruins, a museum, and lush gardens.
History: Originally built by the Moors in the 11th century, the castle was later conquered by King Afonso Henriques in 1147 during the Christian reconquest.
Google Maps Link: São Jorge Castle
Official Website: São Jorge Castle Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €10.
– Students and seniors: €5.
– Children under 12: Free.
Opening Hours:
– March to October: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm.
– November to February: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 28 to Miradouro de Santa Luzia.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Chapito à Mesa – Offers great food with spectacular views of the city.
– O Velho Eurico – Known for its modern twists on Portuguese classics.
Additional Tips: Visit during sunset for breathtaking views. Wear comfortable shoes, as the climb to the castle can be steep.

4. Alfama District

Description: The oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, Alfama is a maze of narrow streets, colorful houses, and hidden courtyards. It’s the perfect spot to experience traditional Fado music.
History: Dating back to the Moorish period, Alfama has survived earthquakes and retained its old-world charm. It was historically home to fishermen and sailors.
Google Maps Link: Alfama District
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free to explore the district.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 28.
– By metro: Santa Apolónia Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Bacalhau de Molho – Specializes in dishes featuring codfish.
– Mesa de Frades – A Fado restaurant offering a mix of music and Portuguese cuisine.
Additional Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the streets are steep and cobblestoned. Evening visits are perfect for catching live Fado performances.

5. Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square)

Description: One of Europe’s largest squares, Praça do Comércio is a vibrant area filled with historic buildings, cafes, and a statue of King José I. It offers stunning views of the Tagus River.
History: Once the site of the royal palace, the square was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake and has since become a key landmark in Lisbon.
Google Maps Link: Praça do Comércio
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free to explore the square. Entry fees may apply for specific attractions within the area.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 15E.
– By metro: Terreiro do Paço Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Martinho da Arcada – Lisbon’s oldest café, serving traditional Portuguese dishes.
– Can the Can – Known for its creative use of canned fish in gourmet dishes.
Additional Tips: Visit during the day for shopping and sightseeing, or in the evening for a riverside dinner.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit:
– Morning for Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
– Afternoon for São Jorge Castle and Alfama.
– Evening for Praça do Comércio.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss custard tarts at Pasteis de Belém, codfish dishes, and Fado dinner experiences.
Transportation: Lisbon’s trams, metro, and taxis make it easy to explore the city. Rideshares like Uber are affordable and convenient.

6. LX Factory

Description: A vibrant hub of creativity, LX Factory is a converted industrial complex now home to trendy shops, cafes, art galleries, and event spaces.
History: Originally established as a factory complex in 1846, it was revitalized in 2008 as a creative and cultural center.
Google Maps Link: LX Factory
Official Website: LX Factory Official
Ticket Prices: Free entry (charges apply for specific events or workshops).
Opening Hours:
– Shops: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm (varies by tenant).
– Restaurants: Open until late.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 15E to Calvário.
– By train: Alcântara-Mar Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Rio Maravilha – Known for its creative Portuguese-Brazilian fusion cuisine and rooftop views.
– Landeau Chocolate – Famous for its indulgent chocolate cake.
Additional Tips: Visit on Sundays for the flea market. Wear comfortable shoes as the complex is vast and filled with cobblestone paths.

7. Bairro Alto District

Description: Lisbon’s nightlife hub, Bairro Alto is a historic district that comes alive after dark with its lively bars, restaurants, and Fado music venues. During the day, it offers charming streets and traditional houses to explore.
History: Established in the 16th century, Bairro Alto has a rich cultural heritage and has long been a meeting point for artists, writers, and bohemians.
Google Maps Link: Bairro Alto District
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free to explore (entry fees apply for specific venues).
Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (bars and restaurants typically operate from 6:00 pm onwards).
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 28 to Praça Luís de Camões.
– By metro: Baixa-Chiado Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Sea Me – Peixaria Moderna – A modern take on seafood dishes.
– Tasca do Chico – Known for its authentic Fado performances and traditional petiscos (Portuguese tapas).
Additional Tips: Evening is the best time to visit for nightlife. For a quieter experience, explore during the day.

8. Carmo Convent (Convento do Carmo)

Description: A striking open-air ruin of a Gothic church, Carmo Convent is a testament to the 1755 earthquake that shaped Lisbon’s history. The site also houses a small archaeological museum.
History: Built in 1389, the convent was heavily damaged during the earthquake and has since remained a symbol of resilience.
Google Maps Link: Carmo Convent
Official Website: Carmo Convent Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €5.
– Students and seniors: €4.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm.
– Closed on Sundays.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 28 to Praça Luís de Camões.
– By metro: Baixa-Chiado Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Café Lisboa – Offers a modern take on Portuguese cuisine in a charming setting.
– Taberna da Rua das Flores – Known for its innovative small plates.
Additional Tips: Combine this visit with a stop at the nearby Elevador de Santa Justa for panoramic views of the city.

9. Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa)

Description: A historic elevator offering stunning views of Lisbon’s cityscape, Santa Justa Lift is a unique architectural gem connecting the Baixa and Chiado districts.
History: Built in 1902 by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, a student of Gustave Eiffel, the lift is an iconic example of iron architecture.
Google Maps Link: Santa Justa Lift
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices:
– €5.50 for a round trip.
– Included with the 24-hour public transport pass (€6.45).
Opening Hours:
– Summer: 7:30 am – 11:00 pm.
– Winter: 7:30 am – 9:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 28.
– By metro: Baixa-Chiado Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Sacramento do Chiado – Serves upscale Portuguese cuisine.
– Nicolau Lisboa – Known for its brunch and healthy options.
Additional Tips: Arrive early or late in the day to avoid long queues. The 24-hour transport pass is a cost-effective way to include this attraction.

10. National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)

Description: Dedicated to the art of azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles), this museum showcases the evolution of tile-making from the 15th century to the present day.
History: Housed in the 16th-century Madre de Deus Convent, the museum features stunning examples of tile art, including a large-scale depiction of Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake.
Google Maps Link: National Tile Museum
Official Website: Tile Museum Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €5.
– Students and seniors: €2.50.
– Free on the first Sunday of each month.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By bus: Routes to Rua Madre de Deus.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Clube de Jornalistas – A hidden gem offering a creative dining experience.
– Cantinho do Aziz – Specializes in Mozambican-Portuguese fusion dishes.
Additional Tips: Plan for 1–2 hours to fully explore the exhibits. The museum’s chapel is a must-see for its intricate tile work.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit:
– Morning for Carmo Convent and National Tile Museum.
– Afternoon for LX Factory and Santa Justa Lift.
– Evening for Bairro Alto’s vibrant nightlife.
Local Cuisine to Try: Don’t miss traditional petiscos, seafood dishes, and chocolate cake at nearby eateries.
Transportation: Lisbon’s metro, trams, and rideshares make it easy to navigate between these attractions.

11. Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium)

Description: One of the largest aquariums in Europe, the Oceanário de Lisboa showcases marine habitats from around the world, featuring thousands of species, including sharks, penguins, and tropical fish.
History: Opened in 1998 for the World Expo, the Oceanarium was designed to highlight the importance of ocean conservation.
Google Maps Link: Lisbon Oceanarium
Official Website: Oceanário de Lisboa Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €19.
– Children (3–12): €13.
– Seniors: €15.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm (last entry at 7:00 pm).
Travel Options:
– By metro: Oriente Station.
– By bus: Routes to Parque das Nações.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Marina Rio – Known for seafood dishes and waterfront views.
– Arigato Sushi House – A great spot for sushi lovers.
Additional Tips: Purchase tickets online to skip the queue. Plan for at least 2–3 hours to explore the exhibits thoroughly.

12. Parque das Nações (Park of Nations)

Description: A modern district of Lisbon offering futuristic architecture, lush gardens, and riverside attractions. It’s home to the Lisbon Oceanarium, cable cars, and vibrant outdoor spaces.
History: Developed for Expo 1998, the area has transformed into a trendy hub for leisure and business.
Google Maps Link: Park of Nations
Official Website: Park of Nations Info
Ticket Prices: Free to explore the park (individual attractions have separate fees).
Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (individual attractions follow their own schedules).
Travel Options:
– By metro: Oriente Station.
– By bus: Routes to Parque das Nações.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Páteo Restaurante – Offers a mix of Portuguese and international dishes.
– D’Bacalhau – Specializes in codfish prepared in various styles.
Additional Tips: Ride the cable car for a panoramic view of the area. Bring comfortable shoes for walking.

13. Fado Museum (Museu do Fado)

Description: Dedicated to Portugal’s soulful music genre, the Fado Museum explores its history, evolution, and cultural significance through multimedia exhibits and artifacts.
History: Opened in 1998, the museum celebrates Fado, which was recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2011.
Google Maps Link: Fado Museum
Official Website: Fado Museum Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €5.
– Students and seniors: €2.50.
– Free on the first Sunday of each month.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 28 to Largo do Chafariz de Dentro.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Clube de Fado – Known for its live Fado performances and traditional dishes.
– Bacalhau de Molho – Famous for its codfish specialties.
Additional Tips: Stay for an evening performance in the Alfama district to fully experience the Fado culture.

14. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Description: A world-class museum housing an eclectic collection of art, artifacts, and antiquities spanning centuries, from Egyptian relics to Impressionist paintings.
History: The museum was established in 1969 to house the private collection of Calouste Gulbenkian, an Armenian oil magnate and philanthropist.
Google Maps Link: Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
Official Website: Gulbenkian Museum Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €10.
– Students and seniors: €5.
– Free on Sundays after 2:00 pm.
Opening Hours:
– Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays.
Travel Options:
– By metro: São Sebastião Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– O Polvo – Known for its octopus dishes and fresh seafood.
– Ground Burger – Offers gourmet burgers and craft beer.
Additional Tips: Allocate at least 2–3 hours to explore. The museum’s gardens are a perfect spot for a relaxing break.

15. Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)

Description: Lisbon’s oldest church, the Sé Cathedral features Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. It serves as an iconic symbol of the city’s rich religious heritage.
History: Built in 1147 on the site of a former mosque, the cathedral was constructed after the Christian reconquest of Lisbon. Over the centuries, it has been restored and expanded multiple times.
Google Maps Link: Lisbon Cathedral
Official Website: Lisbon Cathedral Official
Ticket Prices:
– Entry to the cathedral: Free.
– Access to the cloisters and treasury: €5.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm.
– Sunday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 28.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Pois Café – A cozy spot offering Austrian-inspired pastries and coffee.
– Maria Catita – Known for its traditional Portuguese dishes like seafood rice.
Additional Tips: Visit in the morning to avoid crowds. Don’t miss the view from the cloisters.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit:
– Morning for Lisbon Oceanarium and Calouste Gulbenkian Museum.
– Afternoon for Park of Nations and Lisbon Cathedral.
– Evening for Fado Museum and a live Fado show.
Local Cuisine to Try: Indulge in codfish dishes, octopus, and custard tarts at nearby restaurants.
Transportation: Use the metro for quick access to the Oceanarium and Gulbenkian Museum. Rideshares are convenient for Alfama and Cathedral visits.

16. Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries)

Description: An impressive monument celebrating Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, featuring statues of prominent explorers, navigators, and figures from Portuguese history.
History: Built in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Prince Henry the Navigator’s death, the monument symbolizes Portugal’s maritime achievements.
Google Maps Link: Padrão dos Descobrimentos
Official Website: Padrão dos Descobrimentos Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €6.
– Students and seniors: €3.
– Children under 12: Free.
Opening Hours:
– October to April: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
– May to September: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm.
– Closed on Mondays and major holidays.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 15E to Belém.
– By train: Belém Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Darwin’s Café – Offers contemporary cuisine with stunning riverside views.
– Altis Belém Hotel Restaurant – Known for its fine dining experience and modern Portuguese dishes.
Additional Tips: Climb to the top of the monument for breathtaking views of the Tagus River and surrounding landmarks.

17. Eduardo VII Park

Description: Lisbon’s largest park, Eduardo VII Park features beautifully manicured gardens, fountains, and panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River.
History: Named after King Edward VII of England to commemorate his visit to Lisbon in 1902, the park serves as a symbol of friendship between Portugal and England.
Google Maps Link: Eduardo VII Park
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices: Free entry.
Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Marquês de Pombal Station.
– By bus: Routes to the park’s main entrance.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Eleven – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine with spectacular views.
– Restaurante Astória – Known for its traditional Portuguese dishes.
Additional Tips: Visit during the Lisbon Book Fair or other seasonal events often held in the park.

18. Estrela Basilica (Basílica da Estrela)

Description: A stunning Baroque-style basilica featuring an elaborate dome, beautiful tile work, and a peaceful garden nearby.
History: Completed in 1790, the basilica was commissioned by Queen Maria I of Portugal as a gesture of gratitude after the birth of her son.
Google Maps Link: Estrela Basilica
Official Website: N/A
Ticket Prices:
– Entry to the basilica: Free.
– Access to the rooftop for panoramic views: €4.
Opening Hours:
– Monday to Saturday: 9:30 am – 7:00 pm.
– Sunday: 8:30 am – 7:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 28 to Basílica da Estrela.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Come Prima – Offers Italian-inspired dishes in a cozy setting.
– O Lavrador – Known for its hearty Portuguese meals and excellent wine selection.
Additional Tips: Climb to the rooftop for one of the best views of Lisbon. Combine your visit with a walk in the nearby Estrela Garden.

19. Rua Augusta Arch (Arco da Rua Augusta)

Description: An iconic triumphal arch at the end of Lisbon’s bustling Rua Augusta pedestrian street. It offers incredible views from its terrace.
History: Built to commemorate the city’s reconstruction after the devastating 1755 earthquake, the arch symbolizes Lisbon’s resilience.
Google Maps Link: Rua Augusta Arch
Official Website: Rua Augusta Arch Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €3.
– Children under 6: Free.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm.
Travel Options:
– By tram: Tram 15E to Praça do Comércio.
– By metro: Terreiro do Paço Station.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Museu da Cerveja – Known for its beer and codfish snacks.
– Em Alta Na Baixa – Offers contemporary Portuguese cuisine with a creative twist.
Additional Tips: Visit in the late afternoon for a perfect view of the sunset over the Tagus River.

20. Lisbon Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico)

Description: A serene oasis in the heart of Lisbon, the botanical garden is home to exotic plants, winding pathways, and tranquil ponds.
History: Established in 1878 as part of the University of Lisbon’s Natural History Museum, the garden showcases diverse flora from around the globe.
Google Maps Link: Lisbon Botanical Garden
Official Website: Jardim Botânico Official
Ticket Prices:
– Adults: €3.
– Students and seniors: €1.50.
Opening Hours:
– Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (last entry at 4:30 pm).
– Closed on holidays.
Travel Options:
– By metro: Rato Station.
– By bus: Routes to Avenida da Liberdade.
– By taxi or rideshare.
Nearby Restaurants:
– Jardim dos Sentidos – A vegetarian restaurant offering fresh and flavorful dishes.
– Atalho Real – Known for its perfectly cooked steaks and cozy ambiance.
Additional Tips: Visit during spring or early summer when the flowers are in full bloom. Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the garden’s paths.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit:
– Morning for Padrão dos Descobrimentos and Eduardo VII Park.
– Afternoon for Estrela Basilica and Rua Augusta Arch.
– Evening for a peaceful stroll through the Lisbon Botanical Garden.
Local Cuisine to Try: Sample Portuguese classics like Bacalhau à Brás, custard tarts, and fresh seafood at nearby restaurants.
Transportation: Use Lisbon’s metro and trams for easy access, or opt for rideshare services for a quicker commute.