9 Places You Must-See In Lisbon

Lisbon, in my opinion, is one of the best cities to visit in the world. Beautiful architecture, delicious food, and walkable streets make it a contender for any European itinerary. Once there, there’re also heaps of must-see sights in Lisbon, and you can easily spend a long weekend exploring.

Plus, Lisbon a short flight away from most UK airports. But chances are, I don’t need to convince you that Lisbon is a good idea because it’s renowned as a wonderful city.

I’d wanted to visit Lisbon for years, but other Portugal trips always won, usually somewhere with a beach. So when I finally got to visit last year, my expectations were high - and in every way they were exceeded. The beautiful architecture, the yellow trams, the tiled buildings, incredible restaurants, the winding streets of the old town; Lisbon is vibrant and there’s an endless list of things to do.

In fact, there’s so much to do, that deciding your must-see Lisbon list can be overwhelming.

I spent hours researching and figuring out what I wanted to see, do, and where to stay. So, if you’ve stumbled on this guide, hopefully I can help you spend your time wisely and figure out your must-see Lisbon list.

Here’s my take on the perfect Lisbon weekend and a curated list of those all-important Lisbon must-sees. 

Things you must see in Lisbon

1. The city on foot

The best way to experience Lisbon is on foot. Being one of Europe’s smaller cities, it’s compact and walkable, though you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes. Follow your feet around the city and get lost in the narrow alleyways, cobbled streets, pretty buildings and their colourful tiles, and tucked away cafes. Be sure to visit the iconic stone archway of Arco da Rua Augusta in the centre of the city (find it here).

Venture out early, before the crowds, and see Lisbon bathed in the most wonderful morning light.

2. Belem Palace and Jeronimos Monastery

We were absolutely blown away by UNESCO listed Jeronimos Monastery, the grandeur and beauty of this place will take your breath away. And Belem Palace is just incredible.

We took a tram from the centre of Lisbon, and you can easily see both sites in the same day. The two are separated by a short walk alongside the river. Afterwards, soak in the view and people watch from one of the outdoor cafes at Belem. If you have time, visit the Monument to the Discoveries, just a short walk along the river.

3. Explore Barrio Alto and Alfama

Both are older parts of the city, with colourful winding streets and plenty of wonderful tiled walls. If you can, visit both neighbourhoods for their cafes, boutique shops, and pretty pastel buildings. Alfama is especially beautiful whilst stylish Barrio Alto comes to life at night. This is also where you’ll find one of Lisbon’s most famous photo spots – the traditional yellow tram on the hill.

4. Santa Justa Lift and Carmo Covent ruins

The 19th century Santa Justa lift transports you up the steep hill from the Baixa district (find it here). At the top you’ll find the roofless Carmo Convent ruins (find it here), which are worth exploring. I recommend getting here early to avoid the long wait times.

5. Relax at Largo do Carmo plaza

This is one of my favourite places in Lisbon. Unlike the grand plazas, Largo do Carmo square is calm and tranquil yet there’s plenty of incredible cafes and restaurants to choose from. It’s a lovely spot to slow down and escape the crowds, especially in summer. Find it here.

6. Lisbon From above

If you can handle the steep streets then head to the panoramic viewpoint at Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte. High above the city, you’ll be rewarded with the most incredible view of a patchwork of tiled orange roofs and whitewashed walls. Plus, you can see all the way downtown where the suspension bridge sweeps over the river, with medieval palaces and castles sprinkled throughout the vista.

Personally, I would visit this spot at sunset, when the golden light is especially beautiful. Find it here.

7. Sunset from a roof top bar

The night life is Lisbon is definitely worth experiencing, especially in one of Barrio Alto’s countless bars. The energy is absolutely infectious.

But our top bar pick has to be the incredible rooftop Topo Terraco. You wouldn’t expect the trendiest bar in the city to be perched on top of the shopping centre, but the views over the city are beautiful, the cocktails delicious, and the music Ibiza chill out. Alternatively, head to Portas Do Sol, a bar with one of the best views in town. If you’re lucky enough to be here to watch the sunset over the water you’ll never want to leave.  

8. Pastel de Natas

Pastel de Natas are famous Portuguese pastries that can be found across Lisbon, and I recommend you eat as many as possible whilst you’re here! Made properly, you can expect flaky pastry filled with melt-in-your-mouth custard. Whilst you’ll find pastry shops selling these tasty little morsels on most streets, the original pastries come from Pasteis de Belem, who still sell the best in town.

9. Sintra

Numerous fairytale castles and pastel hued palaces await at Sintra, only a short train ride from the centre of Lisbon. Picturesque Sintra is fascinating and there’s so much to see there, that it really needs its own guide. But trust me when I say it’s perfect for a day trip. Book your ticket in advance here, so you can skip the crazy long queues.

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Which European city is your favourite? Let me know in the comments below.