Top 10 Things to do in Lisbon

Things to do in Lisbon

Welcome to the enchanting city of Lisbon, where history meets culture and modernity blends effortlessly with old-world charm. This vibrant capital of Portugal is a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic European experience. From exploring picturesque alleys in Alfama to admiring the stunning architecture at Belem Tower, there are endless things to do in Lisbon that will leave you spellbound. In this blog post, we have curated a list of top 10 must-visit places that should be on your itinerary while visiting this beautiful city!

1. Alfama

Nestled in the heart of Lisbon, Alfama is a charming district that embodies the city’s rich history and culture. The narrow streets lined with colourful old buildings evoke an authentic medieval atmosphere that will transport you back in time.

As you wander through Alfama’s labyrinthine alleyways, you’ll discover hidden gems such as quaint cafes, traditional restaurants serving up delicious local cuisine, and boutique shops selling unique souvenirs.

One of the highlights of visiting Alfama is taking a ride on one of its iconic trams. These vintage vehicles wind their way through steep hills and sharp turns, offering breath taking views of the cityscape along the way.

For those interested in learning more about Alfama’s past, there are several historical landmarks to explore. One such example is the impressive Castle of São Jorge, which dates back to Roman times and offers panoramic views over Lisbon.

A visit to Alfama should be high on your list when exploring Lisbon for its unique charm and captivating ambiance that truly captures Portugal’s essence.

2. St. George’s Castle

Perched high above Lisbon, St. George’s Castle is a historic fortress that offers breath taking panoramic views of the city below. Dating back to the 6th century, this castle has been witness to many significant historical events throughout Portugal’s history.

Visitors can explore the castle’s walls and towers, walk through its courtyards and gardens, and even visit its small chapel. The castle also houses a museum where visitors can learn more about Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.

One of the most impressive features of St. George’s Castle is undoubtedly its location on top of one of Lisbon’s seven hills. Visitors must climb steep cobblestone streets or ride an elevator from downtown Lisbon to reach it.

Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with stunning views over the city and out towards the Atlantic Ocean. It’s worth taking your time exploring this iconic landmark – there are plenty of photo opportunities and hidden gems waiting to be discovered in every nook and cranny!

3. LX Factory

LX Factory is a cultural and creative hub located in the Alcantara neighbourhood of Lisbon. This former industrial complex has been transformed into an artistic haven filled with shops, restaurants, galleries, and coworking spaces. As soon as you enter the area, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world.

The vintage vibe combined with the modern art installations gives this place its unique charm. You can find some amazing street art here that’s sure to capture your attention. Every nook and cranny of LX factory is decorated with creativity- from colourful murals to quirky sculptures.

This trendy spot also hosts various events throughout the year such as music festivals and flea markets that attract locals and tourists alike. You can easily spend an entire day at LX Factory exploring its many offerings or simply unwind at one of its cafes while sipping on coffee.

If you’re looking for a break from traditional tourist attractions, then LX Factory should definitely be on your list of things to do in Lisbon!

4. Rossio Square

Rossio Square, also known as Pedro IV Square, is a bustling hub located at the heart of Lisbon. This lively square has been a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike for centuries. The vibrant atmosphere of Rossio Square is sure to leave you enchanted.

One of the most striking features of this square is its wave-patterned cobblestone pavement that adds an artistic touch to the area. It’s worth spending some time admiring this beautiful design while enjoying a cup of coffee from one of the many cafes nearby.

The centrepiece of Rossio Square is the statue dedicated to Dom Pedro IV, who was both king of Portugal and emperor of Brazil in the 19th century. The monument stands tall and proud, overlooking all those who pass by.

If you’re visiting during Christmas or New Year’s Eve celebrations, you’ll witness an enormous Christmas tree light up right in front of your eyes – it’s truly magical! Not only that but if history interests you then don’t forget to check out ‘Theatro Nacional D.Maria II’ which stands proudly next door.

With so much energy and excitement buzzing around it makes Rossio Square definitely worth adding on your bucket list when exploring Lisbon city!

5. Panteao Nacional

Panteao Nacional is a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados. This impressive building was originally built as a church in the 17th century, but it was later turned into the final resting place of Portugal’s most notable figures.

Inside Panteao Nacional, visitors can marvel at stunning artwork and intricate sculptures that pay tribute to some of Portugal’s greatest heroes. The main draw here is undoubtedly the collection of tombs, which include those of Vasco da Gama and Henry the Navigator.

Aside from its historical significance, Panteao Nacional also boasts an awe-inspiring architectural design that blends Baroque and Neoclassical styles seamlessly. Visitors will be impressed by the grand entrance hall with its ornate ceiling frescoes, while outside they’ll be treated to panoramic views overlooking Lisbon’s beautiful skyline.

Panteao Nacional is a fascinating destination that offers visitors an intriguing look into Portugal’s rich cultural heritage.

6. Vasco da Gama Shopping Centre

Vasco da Gama Shopping Centre is a must-visit attraction for those who love shopping and entertainment. Located in the eastern part of Lisbon, this mall has over 170 shops that include international brands like Zara, H&M, and Nike.

Apart from shopping opportunities, Vasco da Gama also boasts an impressive food court offering a wide variety of cuisines to satisfy your taste buds. You can try local Portuguese cuisine or indulge in some mouth-watering Japanese delicacies.

The mall’s design is inspired by the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India – evident through its spacious corridors and grand scale. Additionally, it houses a movie theater with multiple screens showcasing all the latest blockbuster movies.

One unique feature of this mall is its close proximity to other attractions like Lisbon Oceanarium and Parque das Nações making it easy for tourists to plan their itinerary accordingly. Whether you want to shop till you drop or just relax with some delicious food while watching a movie, Vasco da Gama Shopping Centre offers something for everyone!

7. Lisbon Museum

Lisbon Museum is located in the heart of the city and offers a glimpse into Lisbon’s rich history. With its impressive collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures, this museum has something to offer everyone.

The exhibits at Lisbon Museum cover different periods in Portugal’s history from prehistoric times to modern-day Portugal. One exhibit that stands out is the Roman ruins found beneath the building. Visitors can see mosaics, pottery fragments, and other artifacts that date back to Roman times.

The museum also has an extensive collection of Portuguese paintings from various artists such as Jose Malhoa and Almada Negreiros. These works showcase how art evolved throughout different periods in Portugal’s history.

Another highlight of Lisbon Museum is its interactive displays which allow visitors to learn about different aspects of Portuguese culture such as wine-making and traditional crafts like embroidery.

A visit to Lisbon Museum will leave you with a better appreciation for Portugal’s rich cultural heritage. It’s definitely worth adding it to your list when visiting Lisbon!

8. Chiado

Chiado is one of the most elegant and trendy neighbourhoods in Lisbon. It’s a perfect place for those who love shopping, dining, and culture. The area is full of luxury shops, traditional cafes, theatres, and bookstores.

One of the main attractions in Chiado is the famous Brasileira Café that has been open since 1905. This iconic cafe still serves its customers with delicious coffee and pastries while maintaining its original Art Nouveau decor.

Another must-see spot is the Sao Carlos Theatre that hosts opera performances throughout the year. For those interested in Portuguese literature, there’s also an impressive bookstore called Bertrand where you can browse through thousands of books.

Moreover, visitors can admire stunning views from Santa Justa Elevator which connects Baixa to Carmo Square or explore some contemporary art galleries such as Galeria Vera Cortês or Fábrica Features Lisboa.

Chiado offers plenty of sights for everyone who wants to experience a mix of modern life with historical charm.

9. Belem Tower

Belem Tower, also known as the Tower of St. Vincent, is a true icon of Lisbon and one of the city’s most famous landmarks. This 16th-century tower was built to defend the city from enemy attacks and served as an important gateway for ships entering and leaving Lisbon.

Visitors can climb up to the top of Belem Tower and enjoy stunning views over the Tagus River while admiring its beautiful Manueline-style architecture. The interior of the tower is equally impressive with intricate carvings in stone depicting maritime motifs such as ropes, anchors, sea monsters, and shells.

One interesting fact about Belem Tower is that it was once used as a prison during Portugal’s dictatorship period. However, today it serves as a symbol of Portugal’s historical significance and culture.

Located just outside central Lisbon along the riverfront in Belem district, this UNESCO World Heritage Site should be on everyone’s list when visiting Lisbon. Take your time exploring this incredible landmark and learn more about its history through interactive exhibitions inside!

10. MAAT

Exploring Lisbon is a treat for both the eyes and the soul. From its rich history to its modern attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Lisbon that will keep you occupied throughout your stay. And MAAT is definitely one attraction that should not be missed.

MAAT, or the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, is located in Belem district near the Tagus River. The museum showcases contemporary art exhibitions along with architecture and technology installations. It also has a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the river and surroundings. Visiting MAAT allows you to experience a unique blend of art and technology while enjoying some breathtaking scenery at the same time.