{"id":1274,"date":"2024-03-15T18:42:45","date_gmt":"2024-03-15T18:42:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alltripsstore.com\/23-best-things-to-do-in-lisbon-portugal-in-2024-2\/"},"modified":"2024-03-15T18:42:45","modified_gmt":"2024-03-15T18:42:45","slug":"23-best-things-to-do-in-lisbon-portugal-in-2024-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alltripsstore.com\/ar\/23-best-things-to-do-in-lisbon-portugal-in-2024-2\/","title":{"rendered":"23 Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal In 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Discover the enchanting allure of Portugal\u2019s capital city, with our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Lisbon. From the moment you set foot on its cobblestone streets, Lisbon invites you on a journey through history and culture. Explore the historic Bel\u00e9m district, where the monumental Jer\u00f3nimos Monastery and the Tower of Bel\u00e9m are testaments to Portugal\u2019s Age of Exploration. Wander through the narrow alleys of Alfama, the city\u2019s oldest quarter, serenaded by the haunting melodies of Fado music. And don\u2019t forget to indulge in the culinary delights of the Mercado da Ribeira, a food lover\u2019s paradise, where the best of Portuguese cuisine awaits.<\/p>\n

The Best Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal<\/h2>\n
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We spent 3 full days in Lisbon and could have stayed even longer. We really loved this city and found it easy to see why people recommended visiting here so often. It offers the perfect blend of past and present. Of course, it is its history that usually draws people here, but don\u2019t forget that it also has a really cool contemporary culture, from cutting-edge art galleries to chic rooftop bars offering panoramic views that will take your breath away. It is also the perfect place to base yourself to explore, Sintra\u2019s mystical palaces and Cascais\u2019 golden beaches which are just a short trip away. <\/p>\n

In short, Lisbon is the perfect place to spend at least 3 days and learn about Portugal\u2019s history and cuisine before venturing out to explore the rest of the country. And that is exactly what we did. These are our recommendations for all of the best things to do in Lisbon that you don\u2019t want to miss.<\/p>\n

1. Torre de Bel\u00e9m (Bel\u00e9m Tower) <\/h2>\n
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One of the first places you should visit in Lisbon is the iconic Belem Tower or Torre de Bel\u00e9m. Built on the Northern Bank of the Tagus River, Bel\u00e9m Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site symbolizing Portugal\u2019s maritime power. <\/p>\n

Constructed in the early 16th century as a fortress to guard the entrance to Lisbon\u2019s harbor, visitors are drawn to its ornate limestone fa\u00e7ades, richly decorated with maritime motifs and historical figures, offering a glimpse into Portugal\u2019s glorious past. Inside, you can climb the ancient spiral staircases, explore the old cannons, and enjoy views of the Tagus River and the surrounding landscape. <\/p>\n

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The tower\u2019s history as a point of departure for explorers and its role in defending the city make it a fascinating site for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.<\/p>\n

Belem Tower is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (October to April) and until 6:30 PM (May to September). Admission costs \u20ac6 for adults and is free with the Lisbon Card. <\/p>\n

2. Jer\u00f3nimos Monastery<\/h2>\n
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Located just a hop skip and a jump from Torre de Bel\u00e9m, Jer\u00f3nimos Monastery is another UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of Lisbon\u2019s Bel\u00e9m district. <\/p>\n

This building is a masterpiece of stunning beauty. Jer\u00f3nimos Monastery was built in the 16th century to commemorate Vasco da Gama\u2019s successful voyage to India. Vasco de Gama was the first European to reach India by sea. <\/p>\n

His monument is a prime example of Manueline architecture, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish styles. Its intricate facades, cloisters, and the awe-inspiring interior of the church, where Vasco da Gama and other prominent Portuguese figures are entombed, make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers. <\/p>\n

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The monastery is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM in the winter months and until 6:30 PM during the summer, providing ample opportunity to explore its grandeur. The entrance fee is \u20ac10 for the monastery, with various discounts available for students, seniors, and families. Visitors can also enjoy free admission on the first Sunday of each month, making it accessible for everyone to witness the splendor of one of Lisbon\u2019s most iconic landmarks. We admired it from afar, as the line to get in was a little insane so we recommend booking a timed entrance in advance and it is also free to enter with a Lisbon Card. <\/p>\n

3. Pastel de Nata at Past\u00e9is de Bel\u00e9m<\/h2>\n
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Indulging in Pastel de Nata is a quintessential experience for any visitor to Lisbon, and if you are going to try it, the best place is just steps away from Jeronimos Monastery. <\/p>\n

Past\u00e9is de Bel\u00e9m is an iconic bakery that has been serving its secret recipe since 1837 and offers the original version of the creamy custard tart that has become a symbol of Portuguese culinary tradition. The history of these tarts dates back to the early 19th century, crafted by monks at the nearby monastery. As the monastery closed, the recipe was passed to the bakery, ensuring the legacy of this delicious treat.<\/p>\n

Tourists flock here not just for the pastries but for a taste of history, witnessing the bustling atmosphere and the azulejo-covered walls that tell stories of the past. <\/p>\n

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Past\u00e9is de Bel\u00e9m is open every day from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM (or midnight during the summer), inviting visitors to enjoy these tarts fresh from the oven. The cost is remarkably affordable, with each tart priced at just over \u20ac1, making it a must-visit for a sweet taste of Lisbon\u2019s culinary heritage without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n

4. Padr\u00e3o dos Descobrimentos \u2013 Monument to the Discoveries<\/h2>\n
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Staying in the same neighborhood, the Padr\u00e3o dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries) is an imposing structure standing proudly over the Tagus River. Vasco da Gama may be Portugal\u2019s most famous explorer. Still, the country has a history of discoveries and this is a powerful tribute to the explorers who ventured into unknown waters. <\/p>\n

Located just a short walk along the water from Belem Tower, this striking monument is shaped like a ship\u2019s prow and was inaugurated in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator, a key figure in the early days of the Portuguese Empire. <\/p>\n

The monument showcases over thirty statues of historical figures who significant roles in the discoveries, including explorers, monarchs, cartographers, and scientists, all led by Prince Henry himself. <\/p>\n

The Monument to the Discoveries is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (March to September) and until 5:00 PM (October to February), with an entrance fee of approximately \u20ac6 for the viewpoint. This site not only offers a visual feast and a lesson in history but also a unique perspective on the daring spirit that propelled Portugal into the annals of global exploration.<\/p>\n

5. Mercado de Ribiera (Time Out Market)<\/h2>\n
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Located in the lively Mercado da Ribeira at Cais do Sodr\u00e9, Mercado de Ribiera was transformed in 2014 by the team behind Time Out Lisboa magazine into a gastronomic haven, featuring a curated mix of over 40 spaces that includes some of Lisbon\u2019s most renowned chefs and restaurants. <\/p>\n

From traditional Portuguese dishes to contemporary fusion cuisine, the market provides an unparalleled opportunity to taste your way through the flavors of Lisbon. It\u2019s not just about food; there are also bars, shops, and frequently held cultural events, making it a dynamic hub of activity.<\/p>\n

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Open daily from 10:00 AM to midnight (and until 2:00 AM on weekends), the market welcomes visitors to explore its offerings. Entry to the Time Out Market is free, allowing you to budget according to what you eat or drink, making it a flexible option for tourists wanting to experience the best of Lisbon\u2019s food scene without a hefty price tag.<\/p>\n

6. Food Tour<\/h2>\n
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If you really want to enjoy Portuguese food, a food tour is another option. The Portuguese are passionate about their food and we can attest that Portugal has great food. Take a food tour to enjoy the various ways to eat cod. There are 1001 ways to cook cod from from roasted cod to canned cod. <\/p>\n

This food tour takes you through Central Lisbon to sample Portuguese cuisines while taking in the sights and walking through the Streets. You\u2019ll visit Bairro Alto, Chiato, Rossio and Com\u00e9rcio.<\/p>\n

7. Tuk Tuk Tour<\/h2>\n
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One of our favorite things to do in the Portuguese capital was to hop in a Tuk Tuk and tour. Tuk Tuks are all over the city and we hopped in one at the Miradouro das Portas do Sol. Tuk Tuks are lined all along the streets here and we negotiated a price of 40\u20ac each for a 90-minute ride. It was a great way to see the top historic sights and miradors overlooking the city center. <\/p>\n

Lisbon is known as the city of seven hills and taking a tuk-tuk tour was a fantastic way to get to the top of these lookout points quickly and easily without having to wait in line for elevators or trams. <\/p>\n

8. See the City Center from one of Lisbon\u2019s Many Mirador\u2019s<\/h2>\n
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As we mentioned, Lisbon is called the City of Seven Hills and one of the most popular things to do in Lisbon is to go up to one of its many views of the city for sunrise, and sunset or to simply gaze over the city centre at any time of day. <\/p>\n

The viewpoints are called Miradors, and we visited many during our day exploring on a tuk-tuk. Standouts included the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for its panoramic views of the city and the River Tagus. If you are not on a tour, you can easily access it via the historic tram 28.<\/p>\n

Not far from there, Miradouro da Gra\u00e7a, located near the Gra\u00e7a Church, offers not only stunning views but also a caf\u00e9 to relax in. A short walk or tram ride will take you to this spot, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. <\/p>\n

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The Miradouro de Santa Luzia, embellished with tile panels and a pergola, overlooks the Alfama district and is just a stone\u2019s throw away from the Lisbon Cathedral, reachable by foot or by taking tram 28. <\/p>\n

Lastly, the Miradouro das Portas do Sol presents a spectacular viewpoint of the old quarters, best enjoyed at sunrise. Located near Santa Luzia, it\u2019s a convenient next stop on your miradour journey. Each Miradouro offers a unique perspective of Lisbon.<\/p>\n

Free viewpoints<\/strong><\/p>\n