Lisbon has a way of getting under your skin—the light off the Tagus, the azulejo patterns, the hum of funiculars cresting seven hills. Whether you come for architecture, food, or coastal day trips, the city rewards a slow, stylish wander. If you’re mapping out the things to do in Lisbon, start with these essentials, then follow your curiosity down a cobbled lane.
Begin in Belém: Portugal’s Age of Discovery, in Stone
On Lisbon’s riverfront, Belém distills the country’s maritime story into two UNESCO-listed icons: the 16th-century Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém. Their Manueline stonework—ropes, armillary spheres, sea motifs—celebrates the era when caravels sailed from the Tagus to map the world. Arrive early or late to admire the cloisters in softer light.
A short riverside stroll away, the MAAT—Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology—bends like a porcelain wave beside the water. Its contemporary program and roof-walk make it a natural bridge between heritage Belém and Lisbon’s creative now. Check hours before you go; the museum is typically open Wednesday through Monday.
Alfama & the City’s Soundtrack
For texture and time warp, ride historic Tram 28 from Martim Moniz toward Campo de Ourique. The route threads Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela, clattering past churches, tiled façades, and pocket-size squares—Lisbon’s postcard in motion.
Alfama is also the cradle of fado. Explore the Fado Museum by day to understand the music’s centuries-deep roots, then book a table at a casa de fado for an evening of saudade—melancholy sung with power.
For a panoramic reset, climb to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte in Graça, one of the city’s highest viewpoints, looking across the castle, Baixa, and the 25 de Abril bridge. Sunset here is hushed and cinematic.
Eat Your Way Through the Capital
Lisbon’s dining scene pairs tradition with audacity. For a curated cross-section under one roof, Time Out Market Lisboa—set inside the 19th-century Mercado da Ribeira—assembles dozens of the city’s favorite kitchens, plus bars, a cooking school, and a lively events calendar. It’s ideal for groups or indecisive eaters.
When you’re dressing up, Lisbon boasts multiple Michelin addresses. Two of the most acclaimed—Belcanto (José Avillez) and Alma (Henrique Sá Pessoa)—hold two stars each; reserve well in advance.
Contemporary Lisbon on the Water
East of the historic core, Parque das Nações is a showcase of Lisbon’s modern face, created for Expo ’98 and now home to Santiago Calatrava’s Gare do Oriente, the riverfront promenade, and major venues. It’s an easy add for architecture lovers.
Here you’ll also find the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of Europe’s standout aquariums, with thousands of animals and plants across hundreds of species anchored by an immense central tank—great for families and a thoughtful conservation message for all.
Perfect Day Trips: Palaces or the Portuguese Riviera
- Sintra is fairy-tale Portugal in the hills: misty forests, Moorish ramparts, and the color-washed Pena Palace. Book a timed ticket in advance (required for the palace interior) and plan for a full day if you love gardens and grand interiors.
- Cascais, by contrast, is seaside ease—golden beaches, a breezy esplanade, and lunch on a square with a sea view. Trains run directly from Cais do Sodré along the coast; the journey is scenic and simple, and it’s covered by the Lisboa Card.
A 48-Hour Flow (Steal This)
- Day 1: Belém (Jerónimos + riverside walk) → MAAT roof-walk → late lunch near the water → Tram 28 into Alfama → fado dinner.
- Day 2: Miradouro da Senhora do Monte at sunrise → Baixa/Chiado boutiques → Oceanário or a gallery hop → tasting-menu dinner (Belcanto or Alma).
Practical Notes
Lisbon’s official tourism portal is excellent for current openings, events, and museum passes (including discounts and transit). Taxis and ride-hailing are plentiful; metros and trams are reliable; walking is the city’s greatest luxury—pack proper shoes for the hills and stone.
