Visiting Lisbon offers the opportunity to discover a city like few others in Europe.
The mix of cultures, the sound of fado, the tiles on the facades, the beautiful river views, and the friendliness of the people make this city not only an inspiring destination but also quite a delight for any traveler.
We fell in love with Lisbon when we moved here in 2022, and we hope that by sharing our experiences and tips on the best places to see in Lisbon, you’ll feel inspired to answer the call to discover this place for yourself.
So, what are you waiting for? Book that plane ticket to visit Lisbon, and use this list as your guide. It’s based on our own experience in each place and the popularity and reviews of those who visit them.
The Best Things to Do in Lisbon are:
- Praça do Comércio
- Belem Tower
- Lisbon Oceanarium
- St. George’s Castle
- Monument of the Discoveries
- LX Factory
- Jerónimos Monastery
- Santa Justa Lift
- Santa Lucia Viewpoint
- Lisbon Cathedral
- San Pedro de Alcántara Viewpoint
- Carmo Archaeological Museum
- Graça Viewpoint
- National Pantheon
- Alfama
- Bica Elevator
Praça do Comércio
The Praça do Comércio, as it’s known in Portuguese, is the historical and geographical heart of the city, located on the banks of the majestic Tagus River. It stands out for its neoclassical architecture, white buildings, wide sidewalks, impressive triumphal arch, and lively atmosphere. It is, without a doubt, the perfect starting point to explore the city.
This plaza, one of the largest in Europe, is home to the equestrian statue of Joseph I and various cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy Portuguese culinary delights, such as the famous pastel de nata. Nearby, don’t miss the Lisbon Story Center Museum, which tells stories of the city in an interactive way.
Beneath the ground of the Praça do Comércio hides a labyrinth of passageways. These underground tunnels, known as the “Black Cabinets,” were used by the royal family and some high officials to move discreetly or to access the fortified city. The plaza was home to the Ribeira Palace, home of Portugal’s kings, for 250 years before it was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake.
Belem Tower
The Belém Tower, located at the mouth of the Tagus River, is considered an architectural wonder of the 16th century, popular for its military history and its role in the era of Portuguese discoveries. It was designed by the architects Francisco de Arruda and Diogo de Boitaca, who combined Gothic, Renaissance, Manueline, and nautical styles.
Thanks to its prime location, from its terrace, you can enjoy panoramic views of the river and the city. In addition, it’s located close to other places of interest in Lisbon, such as the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Palace. Inside, there is a small museum that exhibits historical artifacts and stories about navigation and travel, making it the perfect place to learn a little more about Portuguese history!
The Belém Tower was used as a prison in the 17th century and later as a lighthouse. An image of a rhinoceros is carved on its facade, which is believed to be one of the first attempts to represent this animal in Europe. It’s also worth noting that this tower has survived earthquakes and the erosion of time — pretty impressive.
Lisbon Oceanarium
The Lisbon Oceanarium, known as the largest indoor aquarium in Europe, is located in the modern Parque das Nações and was built for Expo ’98. With an avant-garde design that resembles a floating aircraft carrier, it houses more than 8,000 creatures across 500 different species and was designed to represent four oceanic habitats: the North Atlantic, the Indian Ocean, the Pacific, and Antarctica.
Its central tank is nothing short of impressive, with sharks, rays, and an imposing bluefin tuna. In addition to its unique architecture and variety of marine animals, the Oceanarium combines fun and education, all while highlighting its commitment to marine conservation through informative exhibits and interactive activities. It’s an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Opening Hours: Currently 10am to 8pm daily. The last entry allowed is at 7 pm. This itinerary may vary on holidays such as December 24, 25, 31, and January 1.
St. George’s Castle
St. George’s Castle in Lisbon, known locally as Castelo de São Jorge, offers an impressive panoramic view of the city from its walls, highlighting the immensity of the Tagus River and its emblematic bridges.
This fascinating structure has withstood different eras, from the Romans to the Moors and, finally, the Portuguese. It’s home to old, rustic walls, towers, ruins, and exhibitions that tell the history of Lisbon.
Located in the picturesque neighborhood of Alfama, known for its narrow, cobbled streets, St. George’s Castle combines history, architecture, culture, postcards, green areas, and authentic connections with Lisbon. We recommend including it on the list of must-see places when visiting Lisbon — especially if what you’re after are great views.
In addition to its historical intrigue (or because of it, rather), the castle is often used as for cultural events and concerts, which are worth attending if you have time during your trip to Lisbon.
Monument of the Discoveries
The Monument of the Discoveries, or the Padrão dos Descobrimentos if you’re practicing your Portuguese, pays tribute to the Portuguese Age of Discoveries. Its imposing sculpture, in the shape of a ship’s bow, is 52 meters high and features statues of notable figures from the country, symbolizing the bravery of the sailors.
This site highlights the nautical history of Portugal. The interactive museum inside the monument narrates the challenges of those explorations, exhibiting characters such as the infante Don Enrique the Navigator, Vasco da Gama, and Pedro Álvares Cabral, as well as maps and artifacts that were part of the discoveries.
The monument also has a viewpoint at the top, where you can see Lisbon and the Tagus River.
The mosaic floor in front of the Monument of the Discoveries shows a gigantic compass rose and mappa mundi, indicating the routes of the explorer.
LX Factory
The LX Factory, located under the 25 de Abril Bridge in Lisbon, is a former industrial complex transformed into a cultural and creative space. Its unique atmosphere, with urban art, independent shops, restaurants, bars, cafes, and businesses of all kinds, attracts restless travelers from all over the world in search of unique, modern experiences.
Considered a symbol of rebirth, it was revitalized after a declining industrial area, turning into a center of inspiration and resilience. Here, you’ll find cobblestone streets, colorful graffiti, sculptures, bookstores, Portuguese design shops, and the Lx Market on certain days (flea market).
A little-known fact is that LX Factory used to house one of the largest spinning and weaving factories in Lisbon, and a reminder of that industrial past is its famous chimney, which towers over the entire complex.
Jerónimos Monastery
The Jerónimos Monastery is a monument that represents Portuguese national pride and heritage. Built in the 15th century to commemorate the return of Vasco da Gama from his voyage to India, it symbolizes the Age of Discovery and the Golden Age of Portugal.
Its Manueline architecture combines late Gothic, Renaissance, and Age of Discovery elements, standing out for the richness of its details, such as sculptures with nautical, marine, and geometric motifs — all of which are impressive and require a full day of exploring to truly enjoy.
Inside, the central nave stands out as particularly awe-inspiring, as do the stained glass windows and the tombs of historical figures such as Vasco da Gama and Portuguese poet Luís de Camões. Currently, this Monastery is one of our top-recommended places to go in Lisbon for people who love history and architecture.
The Jerónimos Monastery was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983. For centuries, it was financed by the wealth that Portugal obtained from its colonies in India, Brazil and Africa.
Santa Justa Lift
The Santa Justa Elevator, built in 1902 by engineer Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, fuses wrought iron with Gothic filigree, standing out as an architectural enigma in the middle of bustling Baixa. This structure combines a vertical transportation function with an observation platform 45 meters high, offering panoramic views of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and other monuments such as the Castelo de São Jorge and the Convento do Carmo.
While a short ride, the experience of ascending in this elevator evokes a sensation of being suspended in the air. At the bottom, you’ll find souvenir shops and cafes. Nowadays, the Santa Justa Elevator has become a must-see for all those who love this type of structure and for those looking for different experiences in Lisbon.
This elevator is one of the few vertical elevators in the world that still uses a working rack system. Its design, functionality, and technology are from the beginning of the 20th century and the mechanics behind its operation are a nothing short of an engineering masterpiece given the time.
Santa Lucia Viewpoint
The Santa Lucía Viewpoint offers one of the most impressive postcards of the city, highlighting the Tagus River, the red roofs of Alfama (the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon), the impressive bridges that cross it, and the majestic Castelo de São Jorge. For Lisbon residents, this viewpoint is part of the local heritage and a meeting point where locals and tourists converge.
The viewing point, which you’ll call miradouros here, features traditional Portuguese tiles, bougainvillea gardens, a sculpture of Saint Vincent (the patron saint of Lisbon), and the Church of Saint Lucia.
The Miradouro de Santa Lucía is also famous for being the setting for the movie “A Hora da Liberdade,” a Portuguese film from 1999.
Lisbon Cathedral
The Lisbon Cathedral, also known as the Sé de Lisboa, is one of the oldest monuments in the region, dating back to the 12th century, and represents the city’s rich historical and religious heritage.
The cathedral reveals a mix of architectural styles, combining Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque elements. Although its austere facade contrasts with its impressive interior, the latter dazzles with ornate altars, colorful stained glass windows, and the Bartolomeu Joanes Chapel (an essential part of the temple). It houses a museum where paintings, sculptures, relics, and treasures are exhibited, such as chalices, crucifixes, and liturgical ornaments.
The cathedral is appreciated by locals, visitors, and foreigners alike, highlighting its connection with the history of Lisbon.
The Lisbon Cathedral was one of the few buildings to survive the devastating earthquake of 1755. Adding to its mystery is the fact that a crypt was discovered beneath the cathedral, and inside it the archaeological remains of the Roman and Visigothic city were found.
San Pedro de Alcántara Viewpoint
From the Miradouro de San Pedro de Alcántara’s classical French gardens and strategically placed benches, you can see the old town, the iconic orange-red roofs of Lisbon’s buildings, and the imposing St. George’s Castle on the opposite hill.
The viewpoint is known for its lively atmosphere, especially during the month of June, and proximity to Príncipe Real and the nearby Bairro Alto (it’s our favorite for the latter — Príncipe Real is home to several great restaurants and bars on Rua Dom Pedro V).
In addition to being a photographic highlight on any trip to Lisbon, the location serves as a space for concerts, cultural events, and picnics. Its Romantic and Neo-Gothic architectural design, with details such as arches, columns, and lattices, add a touch of elegance to the area.
Here, you’ll not only find the famous Elevador da Glória just next to the lookout, but you’ll also find a statue of Eduardo Coelho, a famous Portuguese jounralist and the founder of the Diário de Notícias newspaper. Behind the park is the Convento de São Pedro de Alcântara, which was built in 1670.
Carmo Archaeological Museum
The Museo Arqueológico do Carmo, located in the ruins of the Convento do Carmo (which dates back to the 14th century), stands as a tangible testimony to the history of Lisbon and Portugal. This structure, which was damaged beyond repair during the 1755 earthquake, is a reminder of the city’s tragedy and resilience.
The museum showcases a rich archaeological heritage through an impressive collection of artifacts and art spanning from Prehistory to the Middle Ages. Its collection includes Roman, Visigoth, and medieval elements, from ceramics, jewelry, sculptures, and religious art to many other objects from those times.
One of the coolest aspects of the Carmo Archaeological Museum is the collection of sarcophagi and Roman statues, as well as the Gothic elements of the convent itself.
Graça Viewpoint
The Miradoouro da Graça is located in the historic neighborhood of Graça, Lisbon, and was named after the Church of Our Lady of Grace, which is located in the same place.
From its small cobblestone square, you get a very privileged view of the city, where the terracotta roofs, the historic towers, and the Tagus River are the protagonists of the postcard that will ultimately be any picture you take.
Due to its picturesque beauty and unique atmosphere, the viewpoint has been the setting for numerous films and television shows, adding importance to its special features.
There is no better way to capture the essence of Lisbon than from the top of its hills, and this viewpoint, along with the nearby Miradouro da Senhora do Monte (our favorite lookout in all of Lisbon and the city’s highest one), are great places to stop and truly take in its beauty.
At the Graça lookout in Lisbon, you’ll find a peculiar commemorative plaque in tribute to the famous fadista, Amália Rodrigues, who used to visit the place in search of inspiration for her songs.
National Pantheon
The National Pantheon, located in the charming Alfama neighborhood of Lisbon, isn’t just another monument — it’s a tribute to the greatest figures of Portugal.
This site is considered a symbol of identity and a place of reverence by Lisbon residents and houses the stories of many national heroes, such as Amália Rodrigues (famous fadista) and Vasco da Gama (navigator and explorer). Its neoclassical architecture and the country’s evident dedication to honoring its heroes are all impressive aspects that make it one of the best places to visit in Lisbon.
The National Pantheon also offers a unique experience for those with time to enter and explore. You’ll find a collection of decorated tombs and sarcophagi, along with frescoes and mosaics that narrate the legacy of Portugal — not to mention the absolutely spectacular panoramic view of Lisbon from its dome.
Also known as “Igreja de Santa Engrácia,” it took more than three centuries to complete, spanning different architectural eras. It was originally built as a church, but was later converted into a Pantheon in the 19th century.
Map of What to See in Lisbon
Alfama
Alfama, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, stands out as a place where Portuguese traditions persist. This sector, located on a hill full of labyrinths, alleys, and stairs, is close to other emblematic places such as the Sé de Lisboa, the Fado Museum, and the Castle of Saint George.
The streets of Alfama are characterized by their large number of craft shops that decorate the neighborhood and immerse visitors in “authentic” Lisbon culture.
More than its history and architecture, Alfama is recognized as a place of meeting and fraternity, where the local community gathers for festivals and celebrations, such as the Santo António Festival in June. It’s hard to find truly “authentic” places in Lisbon these days, as it’s turned into quite a touristic city, but the authenticity of the Alfama neighborhood is a great place to start.
The Alfama neighborhood was once home to sailors, prostitutes, and other outcasts, yet it also survived the 1755 earthquake. Today, its traditional architecture remains intact, preserving its medieval layout throughout the centuries.
Bica Elevator
The Bica Elevator is an old funicular that glides and rises gracefully along the steep hills of Lisbon. This iconic means of transportation has been operating for more than a century, offering a different transportation experience for anybody interested in paying €3.80 for the round trip.
Thanks to its proximity to other popular attractions near the Cais do Sodre neighborhood, such as the Time Out Market and Barrio Alto, it’s a convenient stop for anybody exploring the lower part of the city.
This tram itself is a jewel of engineering and an invaluable relic of the city, given it’s been in operation since 1892, making it one of the oldest in the city.
During World War II, the Bica Elevator served as an air raid shelter for locals. It’s one of only three funiculars that operate in Lisbon and has been declared a National Monument.
