The Best Things To Do In Lisbon
Uniquely charming, hip and ridiculously affordable, the time to visit Lisbon is now! The small capital is jam packed with cool and interesting things to do and is easily explored on foot due to its compact size – all of which gives it a friendlier vibe that many Capital cities lack. What are you waiting for!? Book a flight and get ready to immerse yourself in the Portuguese culture! Here are the best things to do in Lisbon.
1. Ride the Tram 28
Lisbon is famous for its historic, rattling tram lines. The most iconic is the Tram 28 which has been rattling up the steep hills, cobbled roads and through the old Alfama district for decades. The journey begins in Graça and weaves through hair-pin bends and narrow alleys. Sit back and try to relax on this one in a lifetime ride!
2. Get Lost in Alfama
Delve into the old district of Alfama, awaits you are winding streets, hidden alleys and colourful houses – every corner is Instagram worthy! As you stroll through the neighbourhood, take in the great sites like the Lisbon Cathedral and enjoy the beautiful squares that are lined with al fresco cafes.
3. Party the Night Away on Pink Street
Bairro Alto is the classic hangout for partying until dawn and is home to the hip Park bar – a rooftop parking lot turned into a cool garden terrace. 180º views of Lisbon can be enjoyed from here, mojito in hand, of course. Potted plants and wooden furniture provide a natural, cool and hip vibe. However, the famous ‘Pink Street’ is a contender for the title of the best nightlife in the city due to the young crowds that gather and enjoy the late night joints on offer.
4. Wander Through the LX Factory
Visit the LX Factory, a hip collection of abandoned warehouses that have been transformed into an artistic collection of bars, restaurants and independent shops. Upstairs, the bar Rio Maravilha boasts late-night DJ sessions and breath-taking views over the River Tagus out to the Cristo Rei statue. A must do in Lisbon!
5. Try Out the Time Out Market
Rated one of the best food markets in Europe, the Time Out Market has pop-up stalls from Lisbon’s most popular restaurants and chefs. Being a capital that is famed for its delicious food, this market is one of the best things to do in Lisbon. Top tip: grab a seat before ordering or you’ll be left standing about with a tray of food – it’s busy!
6. Relish in the Street Art
Lisbon boasts incredible street art, which can be found across the city. Street art has always been a part of Lisbon’s culture, even before Lisbon became the hip capital it is today – the council even encourages the graffiti as it adds colour to the capital. Several tour groups offer street art tours, so join in and experience one of the best things to do in Lisbon!
7. Haggle at the Feira da Ladra
Prep your haggling skills for a trip to the best flea market in town! The market offers unique and quirky vintage finds and antiques. The history of the buzzing bazaar dates back to the 12th century. This is one of Lisbon’s most popular markets for picking up second-hand steals that you won’t find anywhere else!
8. Sample The Best Food
There is no shortage of great places to eat in Lisbon. Whether you’re looking for the perfect brunch – try Dear Breakfast; the most Instagrammable joint ever! Or Zero Zero for some Italian food served in a hip restaurant with an outdoor terrace and don’t forget to sample a Pastel de Nata – the custard tart which Lisbon is famous for!
9. Take a Step Back in Time
Ask any ceramic aficionado and they’ll tell you that Portugal is the place to go for tiles. Lisbon offers a great National Tile Museum, which is dedicated to the cities old and new tiles. You can fawn over all types, sizes and designs, and learn about the tiles that still line many of the homes in Lisbon today.
10. Catch a Train to Cascais
If you are in need of a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, then there is nowhere better to go than picture-perfect Cascais. This old fishing town offers sun, sea, sand and palm tree lined streets – the perfect place to relax.
