Friendly disclaimer! We want to be as accurate as possible, but given these challenging times, we urge you to recheck that the venues are open when you decide to visit.
Lisbon’s unique mixture of tradition and modernity, of small town and metropolis, captivates visitors from near and far. The heart of the city truly lies in the Tagus River, even if it has grown in all directions. Excellent shopping, ornate architecture, vibrant nightlife and exciting options of eateries are but a few aspects that make Lisbon a wanderer’s delight.
São Jorge Castle
São Jorge Castle is one of the oldest structures in Lisbon. This was once a fortress (taken from the Moors in 1147), and now a must-see landmark with a fantastic view of the city.
Useful Info:
- Location: Castelo de São Jorge, Lisbon
- Website: www.castelodesaojorge.pt
- Timings: November 1st – February 28th: Monday – Sunday 9:00 – 18:00. March 1st – October 31st: Monday – Sunday 9:00 – 21:00.
Jerónimos Monastery
In Belém, situated west of the city along the river lies Lisbon’s and possibly Portugal’s most important historical monument. Here you can see an opulent church and cloistered garden built in the elegant Manuelian style at the beginning of the 16th century when Portugal was a great seafaring power. There are several other sights close by.
Useful Info:
- Location: Praça do Império, Lisbon
- Website: www.mosteirojeronimos.gov.pt/en/index.php
- Timings: October 1st – April 31st: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 – 17:30. May 1st – September 30th: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 – 18:30.
National Tile Museum
National Tile Museum is devoted to the tiles which are so typical in Portugal, housed in a monastery whose varying building styles and decorations give a good summary of the country’s history. One of the high points is an enormous tiled fresco which shows Lisbon as it was just before the big earthquake in 1755.
Useful Info:
- Location: Rua da Madre de Deus 4, Lisbon
- Website: www.museudoazulejo.gov.pt
- Timings: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 – 18:00.
Gulbenkian Foundation
The largest single cultural institution in Portugal was founded in 1955 when Calouste Gulbenkian, the Armenian oil millionaire, donated his estate to the country that had welcomed him during World War II. The museum, constructed in 1969, which houses his extensive collections, is part of a larger complex that includes concert halls, a park, restaurants and a museum of modern art.
Useful Info:
- Location: Avenida de Berna 45A, Lisbon
- Website: www.gulbenkian.pt
- Timings: Wednesday – Monday 10:00 – 18:00.
Parque das Nações
The area where Expo 98 was held has been successfully transformed into a centre for exhibitions, leisure and culture. The extensive amount of building since the Expo almost overshadows pearls such as Siza Vieira’s Portugal pavilion and Santiago Calatrava’s adjacent Oriente Station.
Useful Info:
- Location: Avenida Dom Joao II, Lisbon
- Website: www.portaldasnacoes.pt
Lisbon Oceanarium
This is one of the biggest aquariums in Europe and it shows more than 100 different species. Some of the animals that are displayed here include barracudas, tuna, sharks, rays and one of the most popular attractions- a large sunfish. This is an adventure for all ages.
Useful Info:
- Location: Esplanada D. Carlos I, Lisbon
- Website: www.oceanario.pt
- Timings: Winter: 10:00 – 19:00. Summer: 10:00 – 20:00.
Surfing
When you are tired of the city vibe and long for the sea, surfing can be a great way to relax and have a change of pace. One of the surfing companies located in the city is Epic Surf School, which holds courses for both beginners and advanced.
Useful Info:
- Location: Praca Jose do Rio 7, Lisbon
- Website:www.epicsurfschool.pt
Igreja de São Roque
The Jesuits built this church in 1574 and its interior is breathtaking. It includes one of the world’s most expensive chapels, covered in gemstones, marble, mosaics, gold, silver and bronze. It was built by 130 artists in Rome and then transported to Lisbon after the blessing of the pope.
Useful Info:
- Location: Largo Trindade Coelho, Lisbon
- Website: www.museu-saoroque.com
- Timings: Monday 14:00 – 18:00. Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 – 18:00. April – September: Monday 14:00 – 19:00. Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday – Sunday 10:00 – 19:00. Thursday 10:00 – 20:00.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara lisbon
To get a panoramic view of the city you can take the Gloria Elevator from Rua de São Pedro de Alcantara up to the garden, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara. Here you can take a stroll between sculptures and busts of heroes and gods from Greco-Roman mythology.
Useful Info:
- Location: Rua de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, Lisbon
Cascais
For a day out of the city, you can take the train to the former fishing village of Cascais. Here you can stroll on the beautifully decorated streets, experience the lively fish auction held every afternoon next to the main beach, visit “Museu do Mar” to see the rich history of Cascais or take a refreshing walk along the coastal road to Boca do Inferno (“Mouth of Hell”) where high waves crash into gigantic caves.
Useful Info:
- Location: Cascais
Lisbon Zoo
Located right in the city centre, the Lisbon zoo is home to over 360 different species of animals. There is always something happening in the park and this is a fun activity for both children and adults.
Useful Info:
- Location: Praca Marechal Humberto Delgado, Lisbon
- Website: www.zoo.pt
- Timings: Winter: 10:00 – 18:00. Summer: 10:00 – 20:00.
Pavilhão do Conhecimento
This science centre is one of the remains of the 1998 World Expo. It was first built to focus on the mysteries of the oceans, but today it provides permanent exhibitions in chemistry, physics and other science subjects, mainly for the younger crowd.
Useful Info:
- Location: Largo Jose Mariano Pego 1, Lisbon
- Website: www.pavconhecimento.pt
- Timings: Tuesday – Friday 10:00 – 18:00. Saturday – Sunday 11:00 – 19:00.
Fronteira Palace
This Renaissance palace, still inhabited by the 12th Marquis of Fronteira, is shown to the public through guided tours. It was built as a hunting pavilion in 1670, for the first Marquis of Fronteira, one of the most powerful families in Portugal at that time.
Useful Info:
- Location: Largo de São Domingos de Benfica 1, Lisbon
- Website: www.fronteira-alorna.pt
Tram 28
The trams have transferred people through the city of Lisbon since 1873. Even though it faces stiff competition from the metro today, it is still the perfect way to see and get an overview of the city. Tram number 28 takes you on an old-fashioned hop on and off tour around the city.
Useful Info:
- Location: Starts from Praça Martim Moniz, Lisbon
- Website: www.carris.pt
Cristo Rei Statue
Inspired by the famous statue in Rio de Janeiro, this 28 metres high Jesus Christ statue was built in 1959 to express gratitude for the Portuguese being spared the effects of World War II. Take the elevator to the top and enjoy a stunning view of the city.
Useful Info:
- Location: Alto do Pragal, Almada
Lisbon Escape Game
The Lisbon Escape Game is a great activity for 2-5 friends looking for an exciting and unusual activity when in Lisbon. You have 60 minutes to find your way out, are you game?
Useful Info:
- Location: Rua da Padaria 25, 2nd Floor, Lisbon
- Website: www.lisbonescapegame.com
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
Another great lookout is the one called Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. It is recommended to visit this lookout early in the morning or late at night when this magic city lights up right beneath your feet.
Useful Info:
- Location: Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Lisbon
Lisboa Story Centre
If you want to learn the history of Lisbon, the quick way, you can visit the Lisboa Story Centre. The whole story takes 60 minutes, so it is easy to make time for it.
Useful Info:
- Location: Terreiro do Paço 78-81, Lisbon
- Website: www.lisboastorycentre.pt
- Timings: Monday – Sunday 10:00 – 20:00.
The Orient Museum
The highly recommended Orient Museum features beautiful items from Asia. Among the exhibition pieces, you can find costumes, masks and ritual objects.
Useful Info:
- Location: Avenida Brasília, Lisbon
- Website: www.museudooriente.pt
- Timings: Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 – 18:00. Friday 10:00 – 22:00. Free entry on Friday from 18:00 to 22:00.
Statue of King Jos
The King Jos Statue can be found right in the middle of Praça do Comércio. King Jos I was king of Portugal when the devastating earthquake hit the town in 1755.
Useful Info:
- Location: Praça do Comércio
Time Out Market
Time Out Market has been created by a team of journalists and offers a well-curated selection of over 20 restaurants, 8 bars, a music venue and market vendors. The market is located in a gigantic warehouse, always busy and definitely fun to visit. They also offer cooking courses, live music and other special events. Because of its incredible success, Time Out Markets have opened in different locations all around the world.
Useful Info:
- Location: Mercado da Ribeira, Avenida 24 de Julho, Lisbon
- Website: www.timeoutmarket.com/lisboa/en
- Timings: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 – 0:00. Friday – Saturday 10:00 -2:00.
Parque Florestal de Monsanto
The tree-covered area on and around Monsanto Hill is a great place if you are seeking refuge from the city’s bustle and are looking for a stroll through nature. Inside the forest, you can find the Monsanto Ecological Park, established to provide visitors with an insight into the diverse natural and geographic environment of the area.
Useful Info:
- Location: Monsanto Hills, Lisbon
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