Lisbon is a city that either captivates you instantly with its narrow streets and colorful buildings or takes your breath away—quite literally—with its countless staircases and steep hills. While it might not be the city I’d return to every year, I wouldn’t say no to another visit. Some of my friends are absolutely in love with Lisbon and would move there in a heartbeat. Personally, I preferred the charm of Porto or Braga, two bohemian cities rich in history and breathtaking views. However, I must admit that the atmosphere in Portugal’s capital is truly unique, with its hilltop neighborhoods offering a charm of their own. The surrounding attractions of Lisbon fascinated me the most, and I consider them absolutely unmissable!
How to Plan Your Trip to Lisbon
Lisbon doesn’t require extensive planning, whether you’re visiting for a short two-day city break or a longer stay of four to five days. However, there are some key details worth knowing and a few attractions that require a bit of organization. This guide covers essential information to help you plan a smooth trip to Lisbon.
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Getting to Lisbon
Lisbon is well-connected to major international airports, and direct flights from various European and North American cities are frequent. Budget airlines often offer affordable tickets, so it’s worth checking for promotions in advance.
Getting from the Airport to the City Center
Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport is just 7 km from the city center, and there are several ways to reach your accommodation:
- Metro: The red line connects directly to the city center, costing around €2 and taking about 20 minutes.
- Aerobus: A convenient option for tourists, stopping at major points of interest for around €4.
- Taxi/Uber/Bolt: A ride to the city center costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic and time of day.
Best Time to Visit & Weather
Lisbon is a fantastic destination year-round, but the best seasons to visit are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). Temperatures range between 18-25°C, and the crowds are more manageable. Summer can get very hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C, while winters are mild, rarely dropping below 10°C. I visited in mid-September, and the weather was a warm yet comfortable 27-30°C.
Where to Stay in Lisbon
Lisbon has various great neighborhoods for accommodation, but it’s important to check the exact location before booking—many places are on steep hills, which can be challenging with luggage.
- Baixa & Chiado – The heart of the city, perfect for those who want to be close to main attractions.
- Alfama – A charming, traditional area with picturesque streets.
- Bairro Alto – Ideal for nightlife lovers, with plenty of restaurants and bars.
- Parque das Nações – A modern, quieter area, great for families.
Accommodation in Lisbon:
Getting Around Lisbon
We mostly explored Lisbon on foot, as our accommodation was centrally located. However, Lisbon has an efficient public transport network, making it easy to get around:
- Metro: Four main lines run from 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM.
- Trams: The iconic Tram 28 is a must for any visitor.
- Buses & Funiculars: Useful for reaching steep areas.
- Lisboa Card: Offers unlimited public transport and discounts for attractions, starting at €21 for 24 hours.
Public transport fares:
- Single metro, bus, or tram ticket: €1.65 (with a Viva Viagem card).
- Daily transport pass: €6.60.
What to Eat in Lisbon
Portuguese cuisine is known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Pastéis de Nata – The famous Portuguese custard tarts.
- Bacalhau à Brás – A traditional dish of shredded cod, eggs, and fried potatoes.
- Francesinha – A hearty sandwich filled with meat and cheese.
- Grilled Sardines – A staple of Portuguese coastal cuisine.
Top Attractions in Lisbon
Lisbon boasts numerous landmarks worth visiting, but some stand out more than others. My personal favorites were the nearby Sintra and Cabo da Roca, which I consider essential day trips from Lisbon.
Must-See Sights in Lisbon:
- São Jorge Castle – Offers breathtaking views over the city.
- Belém Tower – A symbol of Portugal’s maritime explorations.
- Jerónimos Monastery – A UNESCO-listed architectural masterpiece.
- Santa Justa Lift – A historic elevator with panoramic city views.
- Rossio Square – A lively central hub full of energy.
- Lisbon Oceanarium – One of the world’s most impressive aquariums.
- Pink Street – A famous nightlife spot with vibrant bars.
- Bairro Alto – A bohemian neighborhood known for its buzzing nightlife.
- Miradouro de Santa Catarina – A stunning viewpoint overlooking Ponte 25 de Abril.
- Alfama District – The oldest part of the city, known for its Fado music and historic charm.
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Day Trips & Excursions from Lisbon
If you have extra time, I highly recommend exploring Lisbon’s surroundings, which, in my opinion, truly elevate the experience of visiting this region.
- Sintra – A fairytale town with incredible palaces, including Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira.
- Cabo da Roca – The westernmost point of mainland Europe, offering stunning Atlantic views.
- Cascais – A stylish seaside town with beautiful beaches and a charming marina.
- Praia da Ursa – One of the most spectacular beaches I’ve ever seen!
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Happy travels! 🥰
