The Best of Lisbon: A Quick Guide on What to See, Eat & Do
Easily one of our favorite destinations in Europe, there’s SO much to see and do in Lisbon, Portugal. We had an absolute heyday eating, sightseeing and exploring the city during our visit. Better yet, the locals couldn’t be more friendly and fun, so we left with not only great memories but new friends! I reached out to some of my new Lisbon-buddies to compile this list of their favorite spots and added some of my own.
1 | Shop at the Feira da Ladra market
Held Tuesdays and Saturdays, dawn to dusk, arrive early for unique and beautiful souvenirs ranging from antiques to pottery!
2 | See sunrise over Alfama from Miradouro das Portas do Sol
The most picturesque viewpoint in the city, watch as the city comes alive with the new day.
7 AM –
7:30 AM –
3 | Listen to traditional Fado at Tasca Bela
Every 20 minutes the restaurant lights dim and a new Fado singer takes the floor. Go for the show but dinner is amazing too!
4 | Sip ginja at Casa de Ginja in Mercado de Riberia
A Portuguese cherry liquor, be careful because it’s pretty darn delicious. Bourdain may have had one too many during his visit.
5 | Go for “Couvada de Bacalhau” at Laurentina
Cod is incredibly popular in Portugal and this place is known for having the best in town!
6 | Munch on Travesseiros de Sintra from Pastelaria Piriquita
Almondy-yummy-wonderfully-tasty, these little pastries attract visitors from across the country. You’ve gotta give ’em a try! (And send me your leftovers if you’ve got them!)
7 | Explore Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra
By far, one of the coolest places I’ve ever visited. Be sure to explore the inverted tower – it’s right out of Indiana Jones. Dan and I went on a tour here with Lisbon Riders and absolutely loved it. I shared my experience here.
8 | Sample tasty egg custard tarts at Casa Pasteis de Belem
The pride of Belem, these little custard tarts are a Lisbon favorite.
9 | Check out the CCB Museum and Berardo Collection
For great souvenirs be sure to stop by the gift shop!
10 | Learn to cook Portuguese cuisine
Dan and I had a ton of fun with Cooking Lisbon – bottomless glasses of wine, new knife-cutting skills and an amazing meal. It was definitely a great way to learn about the culture and spend time with locals.
11 | Take a boat ride to Cacilhas
You don’t need to visit Cacilhas, it’s just in the other side of the river, but the view from the boat is stunning as it crosses the river Tejo. Instead of buying some expensive ticket for a tour, take the boat from Cais do Sodre to Cacilhas and enjoy the view. (10E PP)
12 | Visit Cascais
Referred to as a Portuguese Monaco, take a seat at one of the great beach-side restaurants and dine on fresh fish straight from the sea.
13 | Check out Sushic
Considered the 2nd best sushi outside of Japan, it’s a local favorite.
14 | Take a cruise through town on the historic Tram 28
The tram ride isn’t just a picturesque way to see the city but an efficient method for crossing through town. Hop on in Alfama.
15 | Go sightseeing in a tuk-tuk!
Tired legs? Opt for sightseeing in the back of a tuk-tuk to get a real feel for the city. I loved EcoTuk, environmentally friendly and quiet compared with the rest. I shared our tuk-tuk ride the Alfama here.
Recommended Lodging:
I love Alfama for it’s spectacular views, history and irresistible charm!
Hotel: Hotel Convento do Salvador or Torel Palace
Phew, I just threw a lot of recommendations your way, didn’t I? To sum it all up, here’s a quick, pinable, pocket guide. 🙂
