Planning your first trip to Lisbon, Portugal? Need a quick Lisbon, Portugal travel guide? I recently embarked on my first journey to Lisboa (as locals call it), and like many first-time travelers, I had countless questions: What is Lisbon famous for? Do I need to know Portuguese to visit Lisbon? How expensive is Lisbon for tourists?
After exploring this captivating city myself, I’m sharing everything you need to know about travel to Lisbon Portugal to help you plan well and make the most of your Lisbon adventure.
Where is Lisbon Portugal Located and Why Visit?
Lisbon, or Lisboa in Portuguese, is the capital city of Portugal, located on the western coast of Europe along the Atlantic Ocean. This stunning destination offers an irresistible combination of stunning views, charming cobblestone streets, warm weather, rich culture, incredible food, and remarkable affordability compared to other European capitals.
What is Lisbon Portugal known for? Lisbon is famous for its historic charm, traditional Fado music, delicious pastéis de nata (custard tarts), beautiful azulejo tiles, and its role as the launching point for Portugal’s legendary Age of Discovery. The city perfectly blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, and digital nomads alike.
Understanding Lisbon’s Fascinating History
Lisbon is one of Europe’s oldest cities, with Phoenician roots dating back over 3,000 years. It flourished under Moorish rule, then became the heart of Portugal’s legendary Age of Discovery—launching explorers like Vasco da Gama across the globe.
In 1755, Lisbon experienced a devastating earthquake during a national religious event. Candles lit for the occasion ignited fires, and subsequent aftershocks triggered a tsunami, destroying 80-90% of the city. Those who didn’t perish from the earthquake were caught in the fire, and those not caught in the fire drowned. This was a dark period in time…but Lisbon rebuilt with resilience. Due to these devastating events you may not find as many older buildings as in other European cities. Instead, you’ll discover more modern amenities while still enjoying the city’s undeniable beauty.
In the early 1900s revolutionaries overthrew the monarchy, and in the mid 70’s the dictatorship was overthrown in a protest with thousands of civilians placing carnations soldier’s guns as a symbol of peace. Today, it blends old-world charm with modern vibrance, making it a top destination for solo travelers, couples, and digital nomads alike.
This brief history is important to understand because it informs the culture and practices you’ll experience during your trip.
Getting to Lisbon: Entry Requirements and Transportation
Visa Requirements and Entry Points
Do I need a visa to visit Lisbon? U.S. citizens can enter Portugal for up to 90 days without a visa. However, ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. Everyone else should check their country’s specific visa requirements.
Which airport for Lisbon Portugal should I fly into? The main entry point is Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), located approximately 13 km (8 miles) from the city center.
Time Zone: Lisbon operates on Western European Summer Time (WEST), which is 5 hours ahead of the U.S. East Coast.
Getting from the Airport to City Center
From Lisbon Portela Airport to the Baixa/Chiado area (city center):
- Taxi: Approximately €10–€15, 15–20 minutes
- Metro: Around €1.85, about 30 minutes
- Rideshare: Uber and Bolt are available and often cheaper than taxis. From the airport terminal, navigate to parking level 2 (P2) and locate the rideshare pickup area. You can’t miss it – just look for a large cluster of people looking at their phones while waiting.
Other Entry Points
Train Stations: Lisbon is served by several key train stations, each offering convenient access to the city center with different rail connections, but all well integrated into Lisbon’s efficient public transportation system:
Santa Apolónia Station is the closest, located just about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the Baixa/Chiado area, making it perfect for a quick 5- to 10-minute taxi ride or a short hop on the Blue Metro Line to get you downtown in no time.
Gare do Oriente sits roughly 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) northeast of the center and serves as a major hub for long-distance and international trains—it’s about 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or 20 minutes via the Red Metro Line with a quick transfer to reach the heart of Lisbon.
Entrecampos Station, located about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from central Lisbon, serves suburban and some long-distance routes and is accessible in roughly 10 to 15 minutes by car or around 15 minutes by Metro using the Yellow Line.
Sete Rios Station is about 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) away, positioned near the Lisbon Zoo, where a taxi will get you to the city center in 10 to 15 minutes, or you can take the Blue Line directly to Baixa-Chiado in about the same amount of time.
Cruise Port: The Lisbon Cruise Port is just 500 meters (less than half a mile) from the city center—roughly a 10-minute walk.
Getting Around Lisbon: Transportation Tips
Public Transportation
Carris is Lisbon’s public transportation operator, offering efficient metro, trams, and buses throughout the city.
Detailed Ticket Options: Single journey fares start at Bus €2.20, Tram €3.20, and Metro €1.85. If you’re paying the driver directly, you’ll need cash only and expect slightly more expensive fares. For unlimited travel, the 1-day/24-hour ticket costs €7 from first use/validation and offers excellent value for tourists planning to use multiple forms of transport.
The navegante® occasional card is perfect for shorter vacations and allows “Zapping” credits with pre-paid fares and passes loaded on the card. This card costs €0.50 plus the amount of money you want to load on it, offering slightly better fares at €1.66 versus €1.85 for single journeys. The minimum amount you can load is €3, and you can add funds in multiples of €5, up to a maximum balance of €40. You can purchase these cards at ticket vending machines and ticket offices, and be sure to keep your receipt as you’ll need it in case of card malfunction. The card cannot be used by more than one person at a time, but you can continue using the same card for subsequent trips to Lisbon for up to one year. When purchasing, be sure to select the navegante® occasional card rather than the “Customized navegante” personal card, which is designed for monthly passes.
You can also pay using contactless payment methods including credit cards and Apple/Google Pay. However, you can’t use the same card for multiple people, and you must validate by tapping on both entry and exit. This method is valid only for VISA, VPAY, Electron, and Mastercard. When using contactless payment, fees are charged at the end of each day of travel, so you may see multiple “pre-authorization” charges on your card for small amounts throughout the day—don’t be alarmed, as you’ll see the final consolidated amount charged at day’s end. Remember to swipe only the specific card or use Apple/Google Pay, NOT your entire wallet if you have multiple contactless cards, to avoid being charged multiple times.
Important tip: Always check the official Carris website for current fares, as prices can change over time.
Alternative Transportation
Walking: Lisbon is very walkable with charming side streets and spectacular views, BUT be prepared for hills! Lisbon is known as the “City of Seven Hills,” and you will definitely feel the burn as you explore. These historic hills have shaped the city’s development for centuries and include Colina do Castelo (Castle Hill) where São Jorge Castle sits, Colina da Sé (Cathedral Hill) home to Lisbon’s cathedral, Colina de São Vicente where the National Pantheon is located, Colina de Sant’Ana in the heart of old Lisbon, Colina das Chagas near Chiado, Colina de Santa Catarina with its famous viewpoint, and Colina da Senhora do Monte offering panoramic city views. Google Maps works well for navigation, just know that you may be routed the best way through narrow passages and steep stairs and hills—this is totally normal! Wear comfortable shoes with good grip that are lightweight and can handle both cobblestone streets, high inclines, and stairs.
GIRA Bike Rentals: These bike rentals in Lisbon offer excellent value for both regular and electric bikes. Download the GIRA app to pay for and unlock bikes throughout the city. The first 45 minutes of each ride are completely free, making this an incredibly budget-friendly option. If your trip lasts between 45 and 90 minutes, there’s a €2 charge. For rides longer than 90 minutes, an additional €2 is added for every 45-minute block beyond that. For example, two separate trips of 44 minutes each would cost nothing, while a single 150-minute ride would cost €6 in total. To save money, it’s best to keep your rides under 45 minutes by planning strategic stops.
Scooters and E-bikes: These are available through the Uber and Bolt apps for €2-4 per ride. Given Lisbon’s steep inclines, scooters and e-bikes are highly recommended over traditional bicycles.
Taxis and Rideshare: Honestly, we found taking an Uber to be affordable and efficient, with friendly and talkative drivers. But choose whatever method works best for you! The best way to get around Lisbon for longer distances is by eBike or by foot for shorter distances, as there are many pedestrian streets and shortcuts you can take through the rolling hills. A typical 15-20 minute Uber ride costs less than €5.
Practical Essentials for Your Lisbon Trip
Language
Do I need to know Portuguese to visit Lisbon? While Portuguese is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic phrases shows respect for the local culture:
- “Olá” – Hello
- “Obrigado/Obrigada” – Thank you (male/female)
- “Por favor” – Please
Currency and Costs
How expensive is Lisbon for tourists? Lisbon is quite affordable compared to other European cities! The currency is the Euro (€), and while credit cards are widely accepted, some establishments prefer cash. Always carry euros in small denominations and bring a backup card.
A trip can be as expensive or cost-effective as you want it to be, but overall, Lisbon offers great value for food, activities, transportation, and accommodations.
Safety
Lisbon is considered very safe for tourists. The main concern is pickpocketing in crowded areas, so stay aware of your surroundings. The emergency number is 112.
Where to Stay in Lisbon: Best Neighborhoods
Baixa and Chiado: Baixa serves as the central and bustling heart of Lisbon, offering easy access to major attractions, shops, and restaurants, making it perfect for tourists who want to be in the middle of the action. This downtown area was completely rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake with a grid-like street pattern that’s easy to navigate. Chiado represents the trendy and artistic soul of the city, featuring excellent shopping, galleries, and cafés, and has long been a gathering place for Lisbon’s intellectuals and artists since the 19th century.
Historic Neighborhoods: Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest and most historic neighborhood, characterized by narrow winding streets, traditional Fado houses, and authentic charm that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. This former Moorish quarter survived the great earthquake and maintains its medieval layout, making every walk an adventure through living history. Bairro Alto transforms from a quiet daytime neighborhood into the city’s vibrant nightlife epicenter after dark, with its maze of narrow streets filling with locals and tourists enjoying the buzzing bar scene that has defined Lisbon’s evening culture since the 18th century.
Cultural Quarter: Belém sits along the Tagus River and serves as the cultural heart of Lisbon, home to magnificent monuments like Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery that celebrate Portugal’s maritime heritage. This area developed during the Age of Discovery as the departure point for Portuguese explorers, and today offers a more spacious, monument-focused experience compared to the dense city center.
We stayed at the Intercontinental Lisbon near Eduardo VII Park. While not within walking distance of major sites, it was just an inexpensive Uber ride away from everything and offered modern amenities in a quieter part of the city.
When to Visit Lisbon Portugal: Weather and Packing Tips
Best Time to Visit by Season
Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures with fewer tourists. Highs range from 64–73°F (18–23°C). Expect 7–10 rainy days per month, especially in March. Great time to explore before peak season.
Summer (June–August): Hot, dry, and busiest tourism period. Highs average 79–84°F (26–29°C). Rain is rare (1–3 days per month). Perfect for beaches and festivals, but expect crowds and higher prices.
Autumn (September–November): Pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Highs range from 75°F to 64°F. Rain increases gradually. Excellent time to enjoy the city without summer heat.
Winter (December–February): Cooler and wetter but mild compared to many European cities. Highs range from 58–61°F. Off-season means better prices and fewer tourists.
Packing Essentials
Lisbon is mostly a warm-weather city! Bring:
- Layers for varying temperatures
- Sun protection (sunglasses and hat)
- Light, water-resistant jacket for evenings and potential rain
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for cobblestone streets and steep inclines
- Mini first-aid kit (helpful for navigating cobblestones)
- Reusable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink)
Lisbon Portugal Things to Do: Top Attractions and Activities
Must-See Historic Sites
Belém Tower stands as one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, this 16th-century fortress was built to defend the city’s harbor and now serves as a UNESCO World Heritage site representing Portugal’s Age of Discovery. The tower’s intricate Manueline architecture and waterfront location make it a photographer’s dream and a perfect introduction to Portugal’s maritime history.
Jerónimos Monastery represents the pinnacle of Portuguese architecture and stands as another UNESCO World Heritage site that took nearly a century to complete. This magnificent limestone monastery houses the tomb of explorer Vasco da Gama and showcases the wealth Portugal gained from its overseas empire through its ornate cloisters and stunning church.
São Jorge Castle crowns one of Lisbon’s seven hills and offers the most spectacular panoramic views of the entire city, the Tagus River, and beyond. Originally built by the Moors in the 11th century, this historic fortress allows visitors to walk along ancient ramparts while learning about Lisbon’s layered history through interactive exhibits.
Alfama District serves as Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, where narrow cobblestone streets wind past traditional houses adorned with colorful tiles and laundry hanging from wrought-iron balconies. This is the birthplace of Fado music, and wandering these medieval streets feels like stepping back in time, especially when the haunting melodies drift from local taverns.
Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio) functions as Lisbon’s grand waterfront plaza and serves as one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, surrounded by yellow 18th-century buildings with elegant arcades. This massive square opens directly onto the Tagus River and houses important government buildings, upscale restaurants, and the famous Rua Augusta Arch.
Cultural Highlights
Experience traditional Fado music in the intimate taverns of Alfama, where this uniquely Portuguese musical genre expresses deep emotion through soulful vocals accompanied by guitar. These performances typically occur in small, dimly lit restaurants where the audience listens in respectful silence to songs about love, loss, and longing.
The National Tile Museum celebrates Portugal’s famous azulejo tiles in a former convent setting, showcasing centuries of ceramic artistry from simple geometric patterns to elaborate narrative scenes. Visitors can trace the evolution of Portuguese tile-making and see how these decorative elements became integral to the country’s architectural identity.
MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) represents Lisbon’s commitment to contemporary culture, featuring cutting-edge exhibitions in a stunning riverside building designed by Amanda Levete. This modern cultural space bridges traditional and contemporary art while offering beautiful views of the Tagus River and 25 de Abril Bridge.
Eduardo VII Park provides a green oasis in the city center, featuring formal gardens, walking paths, and the highest viewpoint accessible by car in central Lisbon. The park’s geometric design and central location make it perfect for a leisurely stroll and photos of the city stretching toward the river.
Avenida da Liberdade serves as Lisbon’s premier shopping avenue, a tree-lined boulevard reminiscent of Paris’s Champs-Élysées, featuring luxury boutiques, department stores, and elegant outdoor cafés. This grand avenue connects downtown Lisbon to the newer areas of the city and showcases the capital’s sophisticated side.
Lisbon Portugal Day Trips
Sintra stands as a fairy-tale destination just 30 minutes from Lisbon, where the colorful Pena Palace sits atop a mountain like something from a storybook. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders and features romantic 19th-century architecture surrounded by exotic gardens and mystical forests.
Cascais offers a charming coastal escape that was once a humble fishing village before becoming a beloved resort destination for Portuguese royalty. Today, this elegant seaside town features beautiful beaches, a picturesque old town center, excellent restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a day away from the city.
The neighboring beaches along the Atlantic coast provide endless opportunities for relaxation, from the dramatic cliffs and surfing spots of the western coast to the calmer waters and family-friendly beaches closer to Lisbon. Many beaches are easily accessible by train, making them perfect day-trip destinations.
A suggested duration of 3–5 days is ideal for exploring Lisbon’s main attractions and taking at least one day trip to nearby destinations like Sintra.
What to Eat and Drink in Lisbon
Traditional Portuguese Dishes
- Bacalhau à Brás: Salted cod with potatoes and eggs
- Caldo Verde: Traditional kale soup
- Pastéis de Nata: World-famous custard tarts (a must-try!)
Beverages
- Ginjinha: Sweet cherry liqueur served in small cups
- Port Wine: Fortified wine from the Douro Valley
Dining Tips
When dining in Lisbon, keep in mind that tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated—a 5–10% tip shows gratitude for good service. Tap water is perfectly safe to drink throughout the city, so don’t hesitate to ask for água da torneira to save money. Be sure to bring cash as some restaurants are cash-only, particularly smaller, family-run establishments and traditional tascas. Many restaurants follow Portuguese dining customs by closing between lunch and dinner service, typically from 3–7 PM, so plan your meals accordingly. For comprehensive restaurant recommendations, must-try dishes, and insider food tips, I wrote an entire dedicated blog post about Lisbon’s incredible food scene that you’ll definitely want to check out!
Essential Travel Tips for Lisbon
Take advantage of money-saving opportunities like free museum days and use public transportation or walk when possible to experience the city like a local. Eat at traditional tascas (local taverns) for authentic, affordable meals that showcase real Portuguese flavors without tourist markups. When it comes to cultural etiquette, greet locals with a handshake or cheek kisses, be punctual for reservations, and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites to show respect.
Accessibility Information: Lisbon has made significant improvements for travelers with disabilities, though the historic city center’s steep hills and cobblestone streets can present challenges. Most metro stations are wheelchair accessible, and newer trams (like Tram 28E) have low floors for easier boarding. Major attractions like Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and most museums offer wheelchair access and adapted facilities. The city provides accessible taxis through special booking services, and many hotels in newer areas offer full accessibility features. For detailed accessibility information, contact Turismo de Lisboa before your trip.
Finding Restrooms: Public restrooms in Lisbon can be found at major tourist attractions, shopping centers like Colombo and El Corte Inglés, train and metro stations, and most museums. Many cafés and restaurants allow non-customers to use facilities for a small fee (around €0.50-1), and McDonald’s locations throughout the city typically have accessible restrooms. Tourist information centers also provide restroom access and can direct you to the nearest facilities.
Portugal is famous for its cork industry, which generates 1.3 billion euros annually, so consider bringing back cork products like bags, wallets, or decorations as unique souvenirs. Other excellent purchases include Portuguese tiles for home projects or drink coasters, custom ceramics, bottles of Ginjinha cherry liqueur, quality Port wine, and premium sardines that showcase Portugal’s fishing heritage.
Some airlines, specifically TAP Air Portugal, offers a stopover program in both Lisbon and Porto that allow you to explore the city for up to 10 days while commuting between two cities—check with Air Portugal or your carrier about this valuable perk that can turn a tedious layover into a mini adventure! Remember that tourism is Lisbon’s main industry, so the city is very well equipped and able to handle visitors with excellent infrastructure and English-speaking staff in most tourist areas.
Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Lisbon is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and modernity. Whether you’re exploring its historic neighborhoods, savoring its incredible cuisine, or enjoying its vibrant nightlife, there’s truly something for everyone.
The city’s resilient spirit, stunning architecture, affordable prices, and warm hospitality make it an ideal destination for first-time visitors to Portugal. From the traditional Fado music echoing through Alfama’s narrow streets to the breathtaking views from São Jorge Castle, Lisbon offers experiences that will stay with you long after you return home.
Ready to plan your Lisbon adventure? Remember to plan well, have fun, and travel the world—because this captivating Portuguese capital is waiting to be explored!
Enjoy!
Antoinette | Frolic & Courage
