Lisbon

The must see, must do checklist when visiting Portugal’s capital

No matter what time of the year you visit Lisbon, you can rely on good weather, delicious food, and plenty of fun things to do. The capital of Portugal is known for its vibrant atmosphere and whether you're in the mood for exciting nightlife, historical sites, or even a trip to the beach, you can do all of that and more right here.

Between the food, sights, and tourist attractions, you won't find it hard to fill up your Lisbon travel itinerary. Not to mention all the bars, cafés, and clubs. Lisbon is also an amazing hub for day trips and you can visit other incredible parts of Portugal while you stay. Here are 10 fun things to do in Lisbon, Portugal.

1. Take The Tram And Funicular

One of the cool things about Lisbon is that the city’s public transport has become iconic in itself. Many people take a ride on one of its many traditional yellow trams just to enjoy the experience. These let you explore the city in style and experience great views economically.

Tram 28 is the most popular route. You should also take a ride on one of Lisbon’s three funiculars - the diagonal trams that take you on uphill rides.

2. Visit Castelo De São Jorge

Another must-see spot in Lisbon is the Castelo de São Jorge or St. George’s Castle. This Roman castle was built over 2,000 years ago and is one of the most astonishing landmarks in the entire city.

You can walk up here or take a tram. Whichever way you choose, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the city. It’s also an excellent place to explore the history of Lisbon as it hosts many interesting exhibitions.

3. Try Pastéis De Nata

While you can find all kinds of delicious food in Lisbon, pastéis de nata (or Portuguese custard tarts) have historically been a local favorite. If you ask the locals of Lisbon what to eat, they’ll likely recommend one of these mouthwatering pastries.

You can find pasteis de nata in various bakeries around Lisbon - some even solely dedicated to making these tarts. You can usually find these for around 1 Euro, although you’ll likely want to grab a few after trying one.

4. Grab A Shot Of Ginjinha

Ginjinha (also known as Ginja) is a Portuguese cherry liqueur that’s particularly popular in Lisbon. You can find various Ginjinha bars across the city and many locals start their day with a shot of this delicious alcoholic beverage.

Make sure you try a shot of Ginjinha while you’re here - especially since you can usually get one for around 1 Euro. Much like pastéis de nata, Ginjinha is a cultural fixture in Lisbon that is beloved by locals and tourists alike.

5. Take A Trip To Sintra

If you’re staying in Lisbon, taking a trip to Sintra is a must. Sintra is a mountain town that’s around 30 minutes from Lisbon and easily accessible via car, train, or bus. While you’ll find various trails and beaches, it’s mainly known as the home of many breathtaking castles and palaces.

From the Sintra National Palace to Castelo dos Mouros to the National Palace of Pena, there’s plenty to explore here in a day and you might even want to stay overnight. Sintra has some of the most beautiful views in Portugal.

6. Head To Cascais For The Beach

Another top-notch Lisbon day trip you need to take is to Cascais, the beach resort town just 40 minutes away by car or train. From its gardens to casinos to its stunning beaches, this town offers a relaxing and uplifting vibe.

While you’re in Cascais, you can check out the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães, Parque Marechal Carmona, and the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego. Alternatively, you can chill on one of its many beaches and grab a cocktail or try some fun water activities like surfing and stand-up paddle boarding.

7. Venture Round The Alfama

You don’t have to leave Lisbon to get incredible historical views. The Alfama district is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, and taking a walk around its labyrinthian cobbled streets is a fun experience in itself.

The Alfama is home to various attractions, including Castelo de São Jorge and the Lisbon Cathedral. However, you can also simply enjoy the cafes, souvenir shops, and fado bars that line its gorgeous streets.

8. Check Out The Incredible Viewpoints

Throughout the city of Lisbon, you’ll find various “miradouros” or viewpoints that give you some of the most exceptional views of the entire city. If you’re here for a while, you might want to make it a mission to try and hit as many of these as possible.

Some of the best viewpoints in Lisbon include the Miradouro da Graça, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, and Miradouro de Santa Luzia. You can often find bars and cafes in these spots, so you might want to grab a drink and a pastry while you enjoy the views.

9. Visit The Oceanário De Lisboa

The Oceanário de Lisboa indoor aquarium is one of Lisbon’s most popular attractions. You can see sharks, penguins, seals, starfish, octopuses, jellyfish, and all kinds of other sea life at this amazing exhibition.

It’s approximately a 20-minute drive from the city center but it’s easily accessible by public transport. The Oceanário de Lisboa makes for a great day out for families with children, but even if you’re traveling solo or with friends it’s well worth the visit.

10. Party In Bairro Alto

Lisbon is known for its nightlife, and if you’re in the mood for an incredible night out then you must visit the Bairro Alto neighborhood. This district comes alive at night as many people party in the bars, clubs, and even on the streets.

Bairro Alto is home to over 100 bars and restaurants, but it’s not the only place you can have a fun night out. You could also check out the Cais do Sodré, Largo de Santos, and Principe Real areas. Whatever neighborhood you go with, it’s not hard to find great places to party in Lisbon.

Whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, or with your family, Lisbon is an incredible travel destination that suits travelers of all tastes. Whether you’re more interested in historical castles, aquariums, beaches, or bars, you can find all kinds of fun things to do in this iconic Portuguese city.

Of course, these are just a few of the fun things to do in Lisbon, Portugal. You might also want to visit Belém Tower, take a bike ride along the waterfront, fill up on fresh seafood, or visit the many markets, malls, and stores for some retail therapy. Whatever you decide, you’ll have an amazing time in Lisbon.