Ultimate Lisbon Travel Guide: Tips, Attractions, and Local Insights

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• Destinations
• Europe
• Portugal
• Lisbon

Lisbon is arguably Western Europe’s most underrated capital city, steeped in history and cultural richness. First founded as a trading port city in 1200 B.C., Lisbon pre-dates Rome and showcases colonial architecture, vibrant museums, and even a unique music genre. To fully experience the charm of this “City of Light,” hop on an iconic yellow tram and explore an array of attractions, from fortified castles to the lively waterfront and a maze of colorful cobblestone streets. You can savor exciting food—from themed food trucks to fine dining at Michelin-star restaurants. At night, unwind in a funky hostel, a chic boutique hotel, or a historic five-star property.

Time Zone

GMT during the winter (last Sunday in October – last Sunday in March)

GMT+1 during the summer (last Sunday in March – last Sunday in October)

Best Time to Go

Lisbon is a shoulder season destination with the best visiting times in spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). The pleasant weather during these seasons enhances the experience. Conversely, winter often brings cloudy or rainy days, rendering the city quieter. Summer, while vibrant, can see uncomfortably high temperatures and crowded tourist spots, making accommodations scarce and rates elevated.

However, if you appreciate festivals, mid-June is particularly special. Sunday, June 13, marks St. Anthony’s Day, Lisbon’s most cherished holiday, featuring lively parades, dancing, and hearty grilled sardines.

Things to Know

Currency: Euro ($1 USD = .83 EUR; Check the current exchange rate)

Language: Portuguese

Basic Phrases:

• I don’t speak Portuguese: Nao falo portugues
• Where is the…: Onde está
• Thank you: Obrigada

Calling Code: +351 21

Electric outlets: Portugal uses type F and type C plugs. U.S. travelers will need adapters as the voltage is 230V, necessitating a converter for incompatible appliances.

How to Get Around

Trains: Lisbon’s train service (CP) connects major cities and surrounding areas efficiently. Tickets are available at stations or through the Comboios de Portugal app. The metro system (Metro Lisboa) is user-friendly, with four lines, including a connection to the airport.

Buses: The bus system (Carris) operates 24/7 with both electric trams and funiculars. Single rides are affordable.

Taxis: While abundant, Lisbon’s taxis can be pricier during rush hour. Rates vary based on time of day and luggage. Trusted company Coop Taxis is recommended. Be prepared with cash since credit cards may not be accepted. Rideshare options like Uber and Cabify are also available.

Best Hotels

The One Palácio da Anunciada

Address: Rua das Portas de Santo Antão, 112-134, 1150-268 Av. Liberdade / Restauradores Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-041-2300

Lisbon’s newest five-star property, The One Palácio da Anunciada, is set in a 16th-century palace surrounded by manicured gardens featuring a spa and an outdoor pool.

Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa

Address: Av. da Liberdade, 185, 1269-050, Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-319-8950

This five-star hotel features an outdoor pool within a tropical garden and a rooftop bar with scenic views. It also houses a celebrated seafood restaurant and a luxury spa with a 24-hour fitness center.

Hotel Britania

Address: Rua Rodrigues Sampaio, 17, 1150-278, Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-315-5016

As the only original Art Deco hotel in Lisbon, Hotel Britania is a boutique offering with 33 rooms, each featuring marble bathrooms and air conditioning.

Tesouro da Baixa by Shiadu

Address: R. Dom Duarte 3, 1100-240, Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 91-417-6969

This property provides modern accommodations just minutes from the main train station with favorable reviews and prices starting at $80/night for a comfortable stay with breakfast included.

Dare Lisbon

Address: R. dos Sapateiros 135, 1100-422, Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-346-1407

Featuring mini apartments each with a kitchenette, Dare Lisbon offers a home-like experience with rates starting at $120/night.

The Lumiares Hotel & Spa

Address: 142 Rua do Diário de Notícias 1200-146, Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-116-0200

This luxurious hotel and spa offers a rooftop restaurant that boasts panoramic views of Lisbon, coupled with a high-end ambiance in spacious rooms embellished with full kitchens or kitchenettes.

Best Restaurants

Time Out Market (Upscale food court)

Address: Av. 24 de Julho 49, 1200-479 Lisboa, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-395-1274

Time Out Market offers a vibrant selection of culinary delights, hosting pop-up versions of Lisboa’s best eateries and often features special events.

Pasteis de Belem (Portuguese)

Address: R. de Belém 84 92, 1300-085 Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-363-7423

Since 1837, Pasteis de Belem has been the iconic establishment for sweet custard tarts—their secret recipe is a proudly guarded tradition.

Tapa Bucho (Portuguese)

Address: Rua Diário de Noticias n 122 1200-281 Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 91-456-6392

This tapas bar serves exquisite options including delicious croquettes and pisco sours, enhancing a memorable dining experience.

Barrio Do Avillez (Portuguese, Pizza)

Address: R. Nova da Trindade 18, 1200-303 Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-583-0290

Helmed by Chef José Avillez, this vibrant culinary hub features various dining locales, each with its own specialties and polished flair.

A Augusto Lisboa (Breakfast and Brunch)

Address: Rua Santa Marinha, 26 1100491 Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-887-2746

A quaint spot that serves trendy breakfast and brunch options, renowned for its fresh ingredients and Instagram-worthy dishes.

Restaurante Feitoria (International)

Address: Doca do Bom Sucesso 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-040-0208

Renowned for its amazing tasting menu, Restaurante Feitoria is a Michelin-starred establishment showcasing Chef João Rodrigues’s culinary artistry.

Things to Do

Watch fado

Address: R. do Diário de Notícias 39, 1200-141 Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 96-133-9696

Experience Portugal’s soulful fado music, blending sadness with beauty in traditional venues like Tasca Do Chico.

Try ginjinha

Address: Largo de Sao Domingos 8 Rossio, Lisbon 1150-320 Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-814-5374

Savor Ginjinha, a delightful cherry liquor, at A Ginjinha bar—a beloved stop for locals and visitors alike.

Mosteiro dos Jeronimos

Address: Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-362-0034

This UNESCO World Heritage site, dating back to the 16th century, showcases stunning architecture and houses the tombs of Portugal’s historical figures.

Oceanário de Lisboa

Address: Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisboa, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-891-7000

Ideal for families and marine life enthusiasts, Lisbon’s prestigious aquarium features diverse marine species and remarkable temporary exhibits.

Best Shopping

EmbaiXada

Address: Praça do Príncipe Real, 26, 1250-184 Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 96-530-9154

This elegant marketplace showcases diverse products designed by local artisans in a beautifully restored 19th-century palace.

A Vida Portuguesa

Address: Rua Anchieta 11, 1200-023 Chiado, Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: 351-21-346-5073

A Vida Portuguesa is renowned for timeless gifts and souvenirs sourced from all over Portugal, beautifully packaged for perfection.

Livraria Bertrand

Address: R. Garrett 73 75, 1200-203 Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-347-6122

Open since 1732, Livraria Bertrand is celebrated as the world’s oldest operating bookstore, providing a cozy retreat and a vast selection of English books.

LX Factory

Address: Rua Rodrigues Faria, 103, 1300 – 501, Lisbon, Portugal
Phone: (351) 21-314-3399

LX Factory is a trendy district, rich with eclectic shops and artistic flair, situated in a former industrial area.

Neighborhoods to Know

Alfama: A medieval village with stunning views of the Tagus River and home to Saint George’s castle.

Bairro Alto: A lively bohemian neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife and artistic history.

Chiado: A sophisticated neighborhood with luxury shops and elegant dining options.

Belem: Home to beautiful parks and historical structures like the Tower of Belem.

Weather

Lisbon enjoys a mild climate with four distinct seasons. Winters rarely see temperatures below 45°F, while summer temperatures can reach the mid-90s°F. The driest months are typically July and August, with November being the wettest, averaging 13 days of precipitation.

Apps to Download

Lisboa Cool: City guides, maps, planning, scheduling tours
iOs | Android

Uber: Ridesharing, food delivery
iOs | Android

Google Translate: Translation, phrasebook, transcription
iOs | Android