Lisbon is the largest city in Portugal and is said to be the second-oldest European capital after Athens. I only spent 3 nights in Lisbon since I split my time between here and Porto, but if you have time, I recommend at least 5 nights to truly experience the city. There are so many day trips that can be taken from Lisbon that you could easily spend a week here and still have plenty to do. A city rich with culture, music, and delicious food, here are the top 7 things to do in Lisbon.
1. visit lx factory
In 1846, a fabric production plant was created. The industrial complex spanned over 8.8 square miles, and was one of the most important undertakings the city had seen. Fifty years later, the company decided to move and businesses such as industrial typographies took advantage of the unique location and facilities.
Fast forward to the late 20th century and the location was abandoned, run-down, and desperately needed a makeover. A private investor decided to take on the challenge of creating something new out of a space with over one hundred years of history, and now, the space is home to businesses ranging from cafés to restaurants, design houses, showrooms, shops, and art installations.
2. lunch with a view
The advantage of Lisbon being a city on seven hills is there’s no lack of cinematic viewpoints. Much like San Francisco in the United States, many of Lisbon’s streets are uphill which means it has some of the best views, many of which are free to enjoy.
One of my favorite views is Rio Maravilha gastro bar which is located in the former Lx Factory workers lounge. It has the colorful ‘flying woman’ statue on its dining terrace and offers a fantastic view of the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge, and to the left of that, the Cristo Rei statue. It’s one of the most iconic monuments in Lisbon inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. If you have time, take the ferry over and for a €5.00 entrance fee head to the top of the statue to view the city from above.
More Views Worth A Look
- Miradouro das Portas do Sol is a free observation deck overlooking the city.
- Entretanto Rooftop Bar is located inside Hotel do Chiado and offers small bites and cocktails with a view.
- Miradouro da Graca, from here you can view the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge in the distance as well as São Jorge Castle, and the Carmo Convent, it’s pretty great!
Honestly, it’s hard not to find an amazing view in Lisbon. Wander any of its small up-hill streets and you’re bound to land upon a spectacular panorama of the city.
3. grab a bite at time out market
Time Out Market was a concept created from scratch by the Time Out Portugal magazine team. Already known for inspiring people to make the most of a city by tasting and testing the best, they decided in 2014 to put all that knowledge to good use by bringing the magazine to life and creating a market that encompasses it all. They say “If it’s good it comes in the magazine, if it’s great it goes to the market”.
The market offers 26 restaurants, 8 bars, more than a dozen commercial spaces, and a concert hall, all with the best of Lisbon. There are lots of great options but be sure to get the chocolate cake from Santini, I repeat, do-not-miss-out, it’s beyond delicious! I also recommend a scoop of both their raspberry and coconut ice cream which takes it to the next level.
You’ll find the main hall packed with people throughout the afternoon and into the evening. Be patient, find an empty table, or pull up a chair to join a group of people already seated at the communal tables and make some new friends over a couple of drinks and delicious food.
Time Out Market originated in Portugal however due to its success you can now find it in Chicago, Montreal, Boston, New York, and Miami with European locations in the works.
4. try traditional 'Pastel de nata'
Pastel de nata, also known as a Portuguese custard tart is essentially an egg tart pastry dusted with cinnamon and is one of the most traditional things you can eat in Lisbon. You will find them everywhere, but Pastéis de Belém is said to be the best in the city. They even have a glass wall in the back where you can peek into the kitchen.
With over 50,000 TripAdvisor reviews there will likely be a line of 15-20 people when you arrive but don’t let that deter you, it moves quickly. We waited about 10 minutes and was able to grab a table in the back. I wasn’t a fan of pastel de nata but when something is created before the 18th century by Catholic monks in a Monastery in the civil parish of Saint Mary of Bethlehem, you must give it a try!
5. visit belem tower
Belem Tower is a 16th-century fortification that served as a point of embarkation and disembarkation for Portuguese explorers and as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. It is now one of Lisbon’s most visited attractions, and only 15 minutes from Pastéis de Belém so grab yourself a few tarts and enjoy the walk along the Tagus River, stopping to also see the Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument on the northern bank.
6. plan a day trip to sintra
If you’re visiting Lisbon you’ll hear a lot about Sintra, a resort town in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains. A longtime royal sanctuary, its forested terrain is studded with pastel-colored villas and palaces, it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site which means there’s a lot of history and beautiful sights to be seen. If you’re a fan of castles as I am, be sure to visit Castelo dos Mouros, it offers stunning views and has great reviews online.
7. portugese night life
Bairro Alto and its surrounding area is “the spot” for nightlife. It has a young, urban vibe with tons of restaurants and bars lining the alleys with people spilling out onto the streets. Some venues also allow you to experience traditional Fado music, a form of Portuguese singing that is often associated with pubs, cafés, and restaurants.
It originated around the 1820s and is known for being expressive and profoundly melancholic with musicians singing about the hard realities of daily life. Grab your friends and head to one of the following venues to grab a drink and experience traditional Portuguese music.
Povo: A low-key Bairro Alto favorite that draws a local crowd of Fado enthusiasts, Povo is where you go for a spontaneous night.
Adega Machado: An important fado spot since its opening in Bairro Alto in 1937. The intimate space is filled with antique furniture and traditional tile work and has hosted some of the greatest singers over the decades, including the great Amália Rodrigues.
A Tasca do Chico: Ask any local where to listen to free fado in Lisbon, and they’ll point you here. They have fado shows every night starting around 8 p.m and you never know who’s going to sing which is part of the fun.
where to stay
Goodmorning Hostel
Room Type: Hostel
Guests: Mixed Dorms, Female Dorms 4 & 6 , Suites
Price: 20€+/ night
(photos below courtesy of Goodmorning Hostel)
Solo traveling? Goodmorning Hostel is a great option. It’s located in Restauradores Square in the heart of Lisbon, making it easy to walk to almost everything. Free hot breakfast is offered and let me tell you, it’s delicious! Especially the freshly made waffles, with massive jars of Nutella to drizzle on top.
There are lots of events like Brazilian-themed parties and pizza nights and although it’s far from a “party hostel”, it’s perfectly social. They offer free beer and sangria during their “power hour” from 7-8pm, and everyone comes together in the communal area, making it easy to meet people. I also suggest going on their free daily walking tour which takes you to some amazing views of the city, and once again, allows you to make friends during your time in Lisbon.
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