Lisbon Travel Guide

Basic Tips for a First Visit to Lisbon

Drink tap water: Tap water in Lisbon is safe and of good quality. You can drink it without worries, which also helps you save money.

Explore on foot: Since Lisbon is a city of many hills, walking is the best way to discover its hidden charms. Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy long walks without discomfort.

Use public transport if needed: Take advantage of the metro, buses, and trams to get around efficiently. Get a Viva Viagem card for cheaper and more convenient access.

Try the local cuisine: Don't miss out on tasting delights like grilled cod, roasted sardines, and the famous pastéis de nata.

Wear comfortable footwear: Because of the hills and cobblestone streets, it's highly recommended to wear comfortable, suitable shoes for walking, especially if you plan to explore the city on foot.

What to See for Free in Lisbon

Lisbon offers plenty of ways to enjoy the city without spending a dime. Here are some free things to do in the capital of Portugal:

Visit the viewpoints: Lisbon's viewpoints are perfect for capturing panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. Don't miss the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for a stunning sunset view or the Miradouro de Santa Catarina, popular with both locals and tourists.

Stroll through the Botanical Garden: Located in the heart of the city, this garden is a peaceful haven. It's great for nature lovers and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility amidst Lisbon's vibrant life.

National Pantheon: Free entry on Sundays and holidays until 2:00 pm. The Pantheon offers amazing city views from its dome and is the resting place of several notable Portuguese figures.

Enter the church of São Roque: One of the oldest churches in Lisbon, famous for its impressive baroque interior with richly decorated chapels. Admission is free, making it a great way to see some of Portugal's religious art and history.

Stroll through the Alfama Quarter: Wander through the narrow streets of Lisbon's oldest neighborhood. Admire the Lisbon Cathedral and the church of Santo António from the outside, and soak in the true essence of the city.

The Belém neighborhood: Visit free museums and admire the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower from the outside. These are two of the most iconic buildings in Lisbon.

Visit Chiado and Barrio Alto: These lively neighborhoods blend tradition and modernity. Don't miss the São Roque church and the São Carlos National Theater. Both are impressive from the outside and located in the heart of Chiado.

Walk along the Tagus River: Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the banks of the Tagus River. Start in Parque das Nações and head west, passing under the impressive Vasco da Gama Bridge. Continue towards the historic center for more spectacular views and the refreshing sea breeze.

What to Eat in Lisbon

Lisbon offers a rich and varied cuisine that reflects the country's history and culture. The options are endless, but here are some must-try dishes:

Bacalhau à Brás: Shredded cod with fried onions, parsley, black olives, scrambled eggs, and straw potatoes.

Pastéis de Nata: Custard tarts in flaky pastry, caramelized on top.

Sardinhas Assadas: Grilled sardines, a traditional dish especially during the Santo António festivities.

Caldo Verde: Potato soup with kale, chorizo, and olive oil.

Arroz de Marisco: Seafood rice in a tomato and pepper broth.

Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato: Clams in a garlic, olive oil, cilantro, and white wine sauce.

Where to Eat the Best Typical Food in Lisbon

Eating well and on a budget in Lisbon is totally possible. According to our guides, these are the best spots to try caldo verde, bacalhau à Brás, pastel de bacalhau, the best bifana, and other typical dishes from the city and all over Portugal.

Where to Eat the Best Pastéis de Nata in Lisbon

No one should leave Lisbon without trying these amazing pastries. Here are the spots our local guides recommend:

Where to Eat the Best Francesinhas

The francesinha is a popular and traditional Portuguese sandwich, originally from Porto, but you definitely need to try it in Lisbon. It's made with layers of ham, sausages, and beef or pork, between two slices of bread covered with melted cheese and gratinated. What sets the francesinha apart is its thick, spicy sauce, usually made with tomato, beer, and piri-piri, poured over the sandwich before serving. It's a rich and intense dish you have to try!

Where to Have Breakfast in Lisbon

Lisbon has plenty of breakfast options, both traditional and modern. Start your day at an old pastry shop with a pastel de nata and coffee, or at a trendy cafe offering healthy and vegan breakfasts. Every part of the city has unique spots to explore local flavors and enjoy new culinary trends.

The Best Terraces and Rooftop Bars in Lisbon

Lisbon has amazing rooftops where you can enjoy stunning city views. These spots offer everything from fancy cocktails to outdoor dining, perfect for a special night out or just relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

Pubs, Bars, and Clubs in Lisbon

Lisbon is full of nightlife with bars, clubs, and pubs for everyone. You can relax in a quiet bar and enjoy some local wine, or dance all night at a club. There are also plenty of pubs where you can listen to live music. Here are some recommendations:

How to Get from Lisbon to Porto

It's common for travelers visiting Lisbon to also want to see Porto. The best way to travel between the two cities is by train or bus. In about three hours, you can reach your destination for a price that varies according to demand, starting at six euros.

Once you arrive in Porto, don't forget to take a free walking tour with GuruWalk. You'll find the best guides to help you have an unforgettable experience in the city.

More free walking tours in Lisbon