Lisbon

A BUSTLING HISTORIC BEACH CITY

Lisbon is the kind of place that has a bit of everything—history, beaches, and great vibes. In the city, you’ve got those classic yellow trams, winding old streets, and spots like Alfama and Belém that are full of charm. Just outside, Sintra feels like a fairytale with its colorful palaces and misty hills—totally worth the short trip. If you’re into beach days, you’re set. Head to Carcavelos or Cascais for sun and surf, or chill somewhere quieter along Costa da Caparica. The food? Amazing. Pasteis de nata, and wine with a view—can’t go wrong. Whether you’re into exploring, relaxing, or just soaking up the atmosphere, the Lisbon area makes it super easy to do it all.

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FUN THINGS TO DO IN LISBON CITY

LX Factory is a vibrant cultural hub in Lisbon's Alcântara district, set within a former 19th-century textile factory. Transformed into a creative hotspot, it’s now home to eclectic shops, art studios, trendy restaurants, and co-working spaces, all nestled beneath the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge. Visitors can explore the famous Ler Devagar bookstore, admire stunning street art, and indulge in delicious food from local eateries. On Sundays, the LX Market brings handmade crafts, vintage finds, and artisanal goods to its lively streets. Easily accessible by tram, bus, or train.

Stroll around the LX Factory

Take the famous yellow tram 28 around the city

Lisbon’s iconic yellow Tram 28 is a charming way to explore the city's historic neighborhoods. This vintage tram winds through narrow, cobbled streets, connecting Martim Moniz to Campo de Ourique. Along the route, you'll pass the Sé Cathedral, Miradouro das Portas do Sol, and Estrela Basilica. A single ride costs €3.10, but for better value, consider getting a 24-hour public transport pass at a metro station. To avoid crowds and secure a seat, it's best to board early in the morning or at the less busy Campo de Ourique terminus.

Lisbon's National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo) is a hidden gem housed in the stunning 16th-century Madre de Deus Convent. It showcases Portugal's rich tradition of azulejos—those iconic, hand-painted ceramic tiles—spanning from the 15th century to contemporary works. Highlights include both the building itself, as well as a breathtaking panoramic tile panel depicting Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake. Admission is €8, but it's free with the Lisboa Card . The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 18:00, with the last entry at 17:30 . While it's a bit off the typical tourist path, a short bus ride or taxi will get you there. You can also consider transport by electric tuk-tuk.

Visit the Tile Museum

Walk through the Alfama District

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric neighborhood, a maze of steep, cobbled streets that survived the 1755 earthquake and now have a historic and charming vibe. Walk past backdrops of whitewashed houses, colorful laundry lines, and tiled façades. Must-sees include the hilltop Castelo de São Jorge for sweeping city views, the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé), and the National Pantheon, where many of Portugal’s most notable figures are laid to rest. Don’t miss the Miradouros de Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol, two stunning viewpoints perfect for sunset photos. For a cultural deep dive, visit the Fado Museum to learn about Portugal’s iconic music genre.

Belém is a scenic riverside district in Lisbon, rich in maritime history and iconic landmarks. The standout attraction is Belém Tower, a 16th-century fortress that once guarded the city’s harbor and now offers panoramic views over the Tagus River. Admission to the tower is €8 for adults, free for children under 12, and included with the Lisboa Card. Opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (October to April) and 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM (May to September), closed on Mondays and select holidays. Getting to Belém is straightforward: hop on tram 15 from Praça da Figueira or Cais do Sodré for a scenic 25–40 minute ride along the waterfront . Alternatively, take a train from Cais do Sodré to Belém Station, which takes about 7 minutes . Bus lines 714 and 728 also serve the area.

See the Belém Tower

Grab a drink in Pink Street

Lisbon's Pink Street, officially known as Rua Nova do Carvalho, is a vibrant and iconic spot in the Cais do Sodré district. Once a notorious red-light area, it underwent a transformation in 2011 when the street was painted pink, turning it into a trendy nightlife hub. Today, Pink Street is lined with a variety of bars and clubs that cater to diverse tastes. Notable venues include Pensão Amor, a former brothel turned eclectic bar with vintage decor, and Music Box, a popular nightclub located under the bridge. The street comes alive at night, offering a lively atmosphere for both locals and tourists. Getting to Pink Street is straightforward. It's just a short walk from the Cais do Sodré metro and train station, making it easily accessible by public transport.

BEST DAY TRIPS IN LISBON AREA

Go to Sintra and check out Quinta da Regaleira

Quinta da Regaleira is a mystical estate featuring lush gardens, underground tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well. Tickets are €15 for adults, €5 for youths and seniors, and free for children under 5. To visit, take the same train from Lisbon to Sintra, then either walk 15 minutes or catch bus 435 to the estate. Be prepared for crowds during the high season especially. There is a little restaurant/terrace on the premises where you can grab a snack and a drink, as a lot of walking will be required to explore the castle gardens.

Perched atop the Sintra hills, Pena Palace is a colorful 19th-century castle that looks straight out of a fairytale. Built by King Ferdinand II atop the ruins of a 16th-century monastery, the palace showcases a mix of architectural styles. The palace is surrounded by Pena Park, a forested area featuring exotic trees, winding paths, and hidden gardens. Pena Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal's most visited landmarks, so prepare for crowds, especially in the high season. Admission is €20 for adults and €18 for youths and seniors, with a 15% discount available for online purchases . From Lisbon, take a train from Rossio Station to Sintra (about 40 minutes), then hop on bus 434 or 516 to reach the palace. The link below takes you to the ticket page of multiple palaces in the Sintra region.

Sintra: The Palace of Pena

Just under an hour south of Lisbon, Arrábida Natural Park is a coastal gem known for its turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and serene beaches like Praia da Figueirinha and Praia de Galapinhos. It’s ideal for hiking, swimming, or simply soaking up nature. There’s no admission fee, and during summer, free shuttle buses (routes 4474 and 4477) help visitors reach the beaches from Setúbal. To get there, take a bus (line 4710) from Lisbon’s Oriente station to Palmela, then transfer to local buses or shuttles.

Explore nature in Arrabida Natural Park

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