Best Time
March to May, Sept to Oct
“Lisbon, with its pastel-hued buildings and soulful fado music, is a city that embraces the sun and sea. Each neighborhood unfolds like a storybook, blending old-world charm with vibrant contemporary life. The picturesque streets lead you on a journey through time, making every moment feel like a cherished memory.”
Off the beaten path places in
Lisbon
“The paradise city in the westernmost parts of Europe showcasing its old-time charm and allowing one to free their mind alongside the calm waters of the beaches while dining on fresh coastal cuisine. Lisbon is a potpourri of culture, history and strong Portuguese heritage. ”
Hidden Lisbon
Fado music, delicious pastries, and historic trams.
Lisbon is home to the oldest bookstore in the world, Livraria Bertrand, established in 1732.
Lisbon, Portugal’s stunning coastal capital, is an enchanting blend of old-world charm and modern vitality. With its cobblestone streets, colorful tiled facades, and scenic hills, Lisbon offers rich maritime history and culture, from the iconic Belém Tower to the charming Alfama district. The city’s neighborhoods tell stories of ancient explorers, while modern cafes, galleries, and shops make it a hub of contemporary European life.
Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, and its architecture reflects centuries of history and cultural influence. From the Belem Tower to the Monument to the Discoveries, it’s a city shaped by the sea and the legacy of its explorers. The city’s nightlife also adds a modern touch to its historic core.
Airport
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS)
Places to See
Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal
4.7
45451
10:00 AM - 6:30 PM
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Tip:
Architecture, Riverside Views
Fortified tower offering great views of the Atlantic from the top
Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisboa, Portugal
4.8
19-25
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Europe's Largest Indoor Aquarium
Vibe:
Family-Friendly, Fascinating
Tip:
Marine Life, Conservation Exhibits
Encounter aquatic life and penguins in an almost natural habitat
🪐
Planetário Calouste GulbenkianLisbon's premier planetarium offering educational programs, star-gazing events, and immersive experiences of the universe.
Empire Square, Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisboa, Portugal
4.5
€5-10 (Planetarium)
9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Interactive experiences, kids-friendly shows
Vibe:
Educational, inspiring
Tip:
Astronomical shows, interactive exhibits
State-of-the-art night sky projector with expert lectures teaching visitors about the solar system.
🛋️
Palacete Chafariz D'El ReiA regal boutique hotel in a 19th-century palace, offering stunning interiors, elegant service, and picturesque views of the Tagus River.
Tv. do Chafariz de El-Rei 6, 1100-140 Lisboa, Portugal
4.7
€250-400 (Per Night)
24/7
Lavish décor, historical architecture
Vibe:
Luxurious, charming
Get To:
Terreiro do Paço Station
Tip:
Suite accommodations, river views
Featuring a mix of modern and antique furnishings, the 6 elegant suites have art nouveau touches, and living areas with sofas
Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005 Lisboa, Portugal
4.8
19-25
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Europe's Largest Indoor Aquarium
Vibe:
Family-Friendly, Fascinating
Tip:
Marine Life, Conservation Exhibits
Encounter aquatic life and penguins in an almost natural habitat
Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa, Portugal
4.7
45451
10:00 AM - 6:30 PM
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Tip:
Architecture, Riverside Views
Fortified tower offering great views of the Atlantic from the top
Must Visit:
Belém Tower, Alfama District
Places to Eat
R. do Alecrim 117, 1200-108 Lisboa, Portugal
4.5
30-50
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
French Cuisine, Classic Atmosphere
Tip:
Steak Frites, Wine Selection
Top restaurant known for their well prepared steaks, frites and wine
🍷
FarèsA trendy spot offering Middle Eastern-inspired cocktails and dishes in a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere.
Rua de S. Paulo 200, 1200-429 Lisboa, Portugal
4.6
€15-30 (Mediterranean)
12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Middle Eastern cuisine fusion, cozy ambiance
Get To:
Cais do Sodré Station
Tip:
Falafel, mezze platters, signature cocktails
Cozy place for drinks and nibbles.
🏞️
PSIVegetarian Restaurant
Alameda Santo António dos Capuchos, 1150-314 Lisboa, Portugal
4.5
20-30
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Scenic Garden Dining
Get To:
Bus 758, Metro Intendente
Tip:
Indian Curries, Organic Plates
Vegetarian restaurant with a lakeside terrace offering food inspired from all parts of the world
🍗
Restaurant Santos & Snak BarNestled along the bustling coastline, Restaurant Santos & Snack Bar offers a delightful mix of local flavors and fresh ingredients. With its vibrant atmosphere and friendly service, it's a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The menu features a variety of dishes, including seafood specialties, traditional Portuguese meals, and delicious snacks perfect for sharing. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely meal or a quick bite, Santos & Snack Bar is the perfect spot to unwind and savor the tastes of the region.
Rua do Forno do Tijolo 60, 1170-138 Lisboa, Portugal
4.5
€10-20 (Portuguese Cuisine)
12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Ocean view seating, Outdoor terrace
Get To:
Bus Line 1, Stop: Santos
Tip:
Grilled Sardines, Caldo Verde
Place with typical food and warm service.
R. do Alecrim 117, 1200-108 Lisboa, Portugal
4.5
30-50
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
French Cuisine, Classic Atmosphere
Tip:
Steak Frites, Wine Selection
Top restaurant known for their well prepared steaks, frites and wine
R. Gaivotas 17, 1200-719 Lisboa, Portugal
4.6
€10-20 (Brunch & Coffee)
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Stylish breakfast spot
Get To:
Santos (Green Line)
Tip:
Eggs Benedict, pancakes
Chill spot for all-day brunch staples such as eggs, pancakes & açaí bowls, plus coffee & smoothies
🍦
NannarellaAn Italian-style gelato shop known for its authentic flavors and fresh ingredients, located near Lisbon's botanical gardens.
R. Nova da Piedade 64A, 1200-299 Lisboa, Portugal
4.6
€2-5 (Gelato)
12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Very good ice cream in a small side street of Lisbon
Must Try:
Pastéis de Nata, Bacalhau, Bifana, Caldo Verde, Sardines
Places to Drink
🎲
Pavilhão ChinêsQuirky bar filled with antiques and collectibles, offering a surreal drinking experience.
R. Dom Pedro V 89, 1250-093 Lisboa, Portugal
4.6
15-25 (Bar Prices)
6:00 PM - 2:00 AM
Antique decor, museum-like interiors
Tip:
Portuguese wines, cocktails
Themed bar decorated with political toy memorabilias
Rua da Graça 72, 1170-270 Lisboa, Portugal
4.7
€10-15 (Portuguese Cuisine)
12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Panoramic city views
Tip:
Tropical cocktails, tapas
You can have tasty grilled chicken, roti and potato chips at Tropical da Graça.
R. do Alecrim 19, 1200-292 Lisboa, Portugal
4.6
€10-20 (Drinks)
6:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Former brothel turned bar
Get To:
Cais do Sodré (Green Line)
Beautiful music and good drinks, a unique experience in the heart of Lisbon.
💯
Lux FrágilFamous Lisbon nightclub known for its electronic music scene and celebrity guests.
Av. Infante D. Henrique a Sta Apolónia Cais da Pedra, Armazém A, 1950-376 Lisboa, Portugal
4.7
15-25 (Club Prices)
11:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Renowned DJs, three floors of music
Get To:
Metro: Santa Apolónia
Exclusive nightclub offering live DJ acts with a slightly strict door policy
Largo do Corpo Santo 25, 1200-129 Lisboa, Portugal
4.9
€200-350 (Per Night)
24/7
18th-century architecture, riverfront views
Get To:
Cais do Sodré Station
Stylish, individually decorated rooms have modern decor themed around Portuguese colonial history.
Music / Dance:
Fado, Traditional Portuguese, Flamenco
Places to Network
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:
Tourism, Tech, Agriculture
Places to Shop
Av. António Augusto de Aguiar 31, 1069-413 Lisboa, Portugal
4.8
€20-200 (Shopping)
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Famous chain, rooftop dining
Get To:
São Sebastião Metro (Blue & Red Lines)
Tip:
Gourmet food, fashion
Grocery store, movie theatre, food hall on the bottom, department stores in the middle and restaurants plus a cafeteria on the top.
R. do Poço dos Negros 47, 1200-335 Lisboa, Portugal
4.3
€10-20 (Portuguese Cuisine)
12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Traditional Portuguese cuisine
Get To:
Cais do Sodré (Green Line)
Great place with fresh, simple and delicious food.
🏛️
MUDELisbon’s museum dedicated to design and fashion, showcasing a variety of exhibitions.
R. Augusta 24, 1100-053 Lisboa, Portugal
4.6
Free entry
Closed (Under renovation)
Museum in a striking former bank, with design & fashion from the 19th century to the present.
🥫
Conserveira de LisboaHistoric shop specializing in Portuguese canned fish, a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Rua dos Bacalhoeiros 34, 1100-321 Lisboa, Portugal
4.8
5-30 (Store Prices)
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Vintage packaging, local delicacies
Vibe:
Authentic, old-world
Get To:
Metro: Martim Moniz
Old school fish shop specialising in different varieties of canned fish
Luxury
Watch Out
Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Skip Super Touristic Places
Transportation
Trams, metro, walkable streets
City Overview
Lisbon is a city of hilly streets, pastel-colored buildings, and iconic yellow trams. Known for its historic neighborhoods like Alfama and its thriving Fado music culture, Lisbon blends tradition with modern innovation.
3 Day City Itinerary Guide
- Day 1: Morning: Explore the Alfama district and São Jorge Castle. Afternoon: Tram 28 ride and lunch in Bairro Alto. Evening: Sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. - Day 2: Morning: Visit Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Afternoon: Explore LX Factory. Evening: Dinner and Fado music at a local restaurant. - Day 3: Morning: Day trip to Sintra. Afternoon: Wander around Quinta da Regaleira. Evening: Return to Lisbon for a riverside dinner at Time Out Market.
Current Trends
- Craft coffee: Lisbon’s coffee scene is booming with artisanal cafes like Copenhagen Coffee Lab. - Rooftop bars: Lisbon’s hills provide perfect spots for rooftop bars with stunning views, such as PARK and Topo. - Street art: The city’s murals and graffiti scene are becoming globally recognized, with artists from around the world.
Local Events Guide
- Lisbon Carnival (February): A vibrant celebration with parades and music. - NOS Alive (July): One of Portugal’s biggest music festivals, drawing international artists. - Festas de Lisboa (June): Traditional festivities celebrating the city’s patron saints, with street parties and grilled sardines.
Local Insider Tips
- Alfama for winding streets, local Fado music, and scenic viewpoints. - LX Factory for creative shops and local dining in an old industrial complex. - Belém for its iconic monuments and pastel de nata.
Sustainable Travel
- Electric trams: Lisbon’s iconic Tram 28 is a scenic and eco-friendly way to see the city. - Green spaces: Lisbon is filled with parks like Parque Eduardo VII, perfect for outdoor relaxation. - Eco-friendly stays: Hotels like Inspira Liberdade focus on sustainability and reducing environmental impact.
Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
Ready to see through a local’s eyes? Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides. Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots. Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travellers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey
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Unlock the Hidden Side:
Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets. From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface. Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals. For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.