Discover Lisbon: What to Visit, Where to Eat and What to Do

Lisbon is one of Europe's most charming cities, where history blends with modernity and the charm of its hills offers fantastic views over the city and the Tagus River. In this comprehensive guide, discover what to visit in Lisbon, the best neighbourhoods and viewpoints, the typical cuisine you can't miss, the best restaurants in the city, and suggestions for 1-, 2- and 3-day itineraries.

Few cities in the world can win you over as quickly as Lisbon. The capital of Portugal, it is a place where the past can be felt on every corner, but also where modernity and creativity flourish.

From Lisbon Cathedral to São Jorge Castle, from the bohemian cafés of Chiado to the terraces and viewpoints overlooking the Tagus River and the promenades in Belém, Lisbon has a lot to offer. Lisbon invites you to slow down, observe the golden light that covers the hills and listen to the echo of Fado in the narrow streets of Alfama.

If you haven't booked your stay in Lisbon yet, Cooltour Oporto has prepared a selection of the best eco-friendly hotels and accommodation in Lisbon, Sintra and Ericeira. See our article here about the best eco-sustainable accommodation in the Lisbon region.

 💡 Traveller's tip: Lisbon is best explored on foot, but be prepared for the ups and downs. Bring comfortable shoes and, if you have the opportunity, take a trip on the iconic Tram 28, which winds its way through some of the most historic neighbourhoods.

👉 Many visitors search for "what to visit in Lisbon in 3 days" or "Lisbon itinerary in 2 days". The city is compact and easy to get around, with historic and modern neighbourhoods side by side, allowing for versatile itineraries for those with little or a lot of time available.

Alfama is the ancient heart of Lisbon, a neighbourhood that holds centuries of history among narrow streets, laundry hanging out to dry, and where you can still find neighbours chatting from their windows.

Must-see highlights:
 • São Jorge Castle – Medieval fortress with panoramic views over the city.
 • Lisbon Cathedral – 12th-century cathedral, a landmark of Romanesque architecture.
 • Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol viewpoints – Perfect for postcard photos.
 • Fado in Alfama – Traditional houses where music comes from the soul.

💡 Authentic experience: Explore Alfama at dusk, when the sunset blends with the sound of Fado and the city takes on a special magic.

👉 In addition to the main attractions, Alfama hides gems such as the Feira da Ladra (antique market on Tuesdays and Saturdays) and small squares where you can experience the true neighbourhood life.

 • Baixa Pombalina – Rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, it is now the elegant centre of the city.
 • Elevador de Santa Justa – A neo-Gothic structure offering one of the best views of Lisbon.
 • Chiado – Former meeting place for writers and artists, with historic cafés and century-old bookshops.
 • Bairro Alto – Bars, taverns and Fado houses that transform when night falls.

💡 Quick itinerary: Combine a coffee in Chiado, a stroll along Rua Augusta and end the night in Bairro Alto to experience bohemian Lisbon.

👉 Be sure to visit Praça do Comércio, next to the Tagus River, and walk to Ribeira das Naus, where locals and tourists relax by the water. On the other side of the hill, the São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint offers one of the most sought-after views of the city at sunset.

Belém is a living portrait of maritime Lisbon and its golden age.

• Jerónimos Monastery – UNESCO World Heritage Site and Manueline masterpiece.
• Belém Tower – Icon that guarded the entrance to the Tagus.
• Pastéis de Belém – Secret recipe since 1837, impossible to eat just one.
• MAAT and CCB – Spaces dedicated to contemporary art and major cultural events.

💡 Sustainable tip: Rent a bicycle and cycle along the Belém waterfront to Cais do Sodré. The route is flat, safe and offers stunning scenery.

👉 Be sure to visit the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a monument that pays tribute to navigators such as Vasco da Gama and Infante D. Henrique. The climb to the top reveals one of the best views of Lisbon over the Tagus River and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

 Created for Expo 98, today it is the modern side of the city:

• Lisbon Oceanarium – One of the largest in Europe, ideal for families.
• Expo Cable Car – Unique views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge and the Tagus River.
• Riverside walk – Gardens, bold architecture and urban art.

👉 Here you will also find the Gare do Oriente, Santiago Calatrava's masterpiece, and the Pavilhão do Conhecimento, an interactive museum perfect for children and families.

Lisbon is the perfect starting point for day trips:

• Sintra – Fairytale palaces such as the Pena Palace and the mystical Quinta da Regaleira. Strolling through the streets of the village is like stepping into a romantic setting, with traditional pastry shops and views of the mist-covered mountains. Be sure to try the queijadas and travesseiros, typical regional sweets.

• Cascais – A sophisticated coastal village with beaches and an elegant marina. In addition to the historic centre, explore the road to Guincho, one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, famous for surfing and unforgettable sunsets.

• Ericeira – World surfing capital and UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. More than just perfect waves, it preserves the charm of a fishing village: cobbled streets, white houses with blue stripes and fresh fish restaurants that attract both locals and visitors.

➡️ All these experiences can be enjoyed on day trips with comfortable transport and local guides.

Lisbon is also a paradise for lovers of good food:

• Pastéis de nata – Warm, sprinkled with cinnamon. The most famous version is Pastéis de Belém.
• Grilled sardines – Especially during the Santo António festivities.
• Bacalhau à Brás – One of the many delicious ways to cook cod.
• Ginjinha – A typical liqueur, served in a small glass, which warms the soul.

👉 Other classics worth mentioning include Polvo à Lagareiro (octopus), Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (clams) and snails, which are very popular in summer.

Top 11 Restaurants in Lisbon

After exploring the typical flavours, many visitors ask where to eat in Lisbon. We have selected 11 restaurants ranging from traditional to fine dining, guaranteeing unique gastronomic experiences in the city.

• Frade dos Mares (Santos) – A small, cosy restaurant known for its octopus and Alentejo-inspired dishes.
• Cervejaria Ramiro (Intendente) – A Lisbon classic, famous for its fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere.
• Solar dos Presuntos (Avenida da Liberdade) – A Lisbon icon and a benchmark for traditional Portuguese cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood and dishes from the Minho region.
• Casa do Bacalhau (Beato / Marvila) – Dedicated to the "faithful friend", it offers countless cod recipes, all full of flavour.
• Zé da Mouraria (Mouraria) – A typical Portuguese tavern, where you can sample generous portions of home-cooked food.
• Prova Enoteca (Belém) – A modern space for wine lovers, pairing Portuguese wines with creative snacks.
• Loco (Estrela) – Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant, famous for its creativity and tasting menus.
• Belcanto (Chiado) – José Avillez's two Michelin-starred project, considered one of the best restaurants in the world.
• Fifty Seconds (Oriente / Parque das Nações) – Martín Berasategui's panoramic restaurant, with one Michelin star and stunning views over Lisbon.
• Orquídea (Baixa) – Contemporary restaurant and wine bar, with innovative snacks and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Arkhe (Santos) – A benchmark in signature vegetarian cuisine, with sophisticated, seasonal dishes.

 💡 Traveller's Tip: Many of these restaurants are very popular, so it is advisable to book a table in advance. When this is not possible, arriving early greatly increases your chances of getting a seat.

 Recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage, Fado is more than just music: it is the expression of the soul of Lisbon.

If you are in Bairro Alto at night and feel like having a snack and listening to Fado, visit Duque da Rua or Tasca do Chico, or the restaurant O Faia for a dinner full of flavour and tradition. If you are in Alfama, the best restaurants for an excellent night of Fado are Parreirinha de Alfama and Mesa de Frades.

👉 During the Santo António festivities in June, it is common to find fado singers spontaneously singing in the streets of Alfama, creating unforgettable moments.

 If you prefer to watch the best of Fado in an intimate one-hour show in a historic location near Lisbon Cathedral, book now at:  👉Fado in Lisbon with local wine

Lisbon in 1 Day – Essential and Unmissable

If you only have one day, focus on the three icons of Lisbon:
 • Alfama – Wander through the labyrinthine streets, climb up to São Jorge Castle and experience the authenticity of the oldest neighbourhood.
 • Baixa Pombalina – Discover the elegance of Praça do Comércio and cross Rua Augusta to the Arch with its panoramic view.
 • Belém – End the day with the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery and a freshly baked pastel de nata.

💡 Tip: Use the tram or taxi to optimise your time between Alfama and Belém. If you still have energy, visit Bairro Alto at night.

Lisbon in 2 Days – Culture and Bohemian Life

With two days, you can explore a little more:
 • Day 1: Follow the essential itinerary (Alfama + Baixa + Belém).
 • Day 2: Start the morning at Parque das Nações, the modern part of the city with the Oceanarium, the cable car over the Tagus River, or simply a morning stroll along the river and through the gardens. After lunch, explore Chiado, with its literary cafés and century-old shops, visit the São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint and finish in Bairro Alto and/or Cais do Sodré to experience bohemian Lisbon at night.

💡 Tip: Combine Chiado with a break at a traditional pastry shop and save your energy for the night in Bairro Alto. 

Lisbon in 3 Days – History, Sea and Enchanting Neighbourhoods

With three days available, you can enrich your trip with a visit to Sintra or Cascais – see here for the best excursions from Lisbon.

• Sintra – A living fairy tale, with the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira and mysterious forests. Accessible by train.

• Cascais – A sophisticated coastal village with stunning beaches and a marina promenade. Accessible by train.

💡 Sustainable tip: Opt for a private excursion with shared or electric transport to reduce your environmental impact and make the most of your time.

👉 If you have more days in Lisbon, you can also visit Óbidos (a medieval village with preserved walls) or Fátima (one of the largest Catholic shrines in the world) on day trips.

Q: How many days are recommended for visiting Lisbon?
A: At least 3 days. If you include Sintra and Cascais, 5 days is ideal.

Q: What is the best area to stay in Lisbon?
A: For first-time visitors, Baixa and Chiado are central and convenient. Alfama offers history and charm, while Belém is quieter and close to monuments. Bairro Alto is lively at night.

Q: What is the easiest way to get from the airport to the centre of Lisbon?
A: The red metro line connects directly to the city centre. Taxis and shared transport services are also convenient and affordable.

Q: Is Lisbon an easy city to explore on foot?
A: Yes, but be prepared for some hills. Trams are a good alternative.

Q: When is the best time to visit Lisbon?
A: Spring and autumn. Less heat, fewer crowds.

Q: Is it worth taking a guided tour?
A: Yes. Local guides provide historical context and reveal secrets that would otherwise go unnoticed.

Q: Where can I hear authentic Fado?
A: Alfama and Bairro Alto, in traditional venues.

Q: What excursions can I take from Lisbon?
A: Sintra, Cascais, Ericeira, Fátima, Óbidos and even the Alentejo.

Q: Is it easy to use public transport in Lisbon?
A: Yes, Lisbon has an efficient metro, bus and train system. There are direct trains to Sintra and Cascais, but guided tours save time and give you access to less touristy places.

Q: What is the best viewpoint in Lisbon?
A: The Senhora do Monte viewpoint is one of the highest and offers stunning views of the Castle, Alfama and the Tagus River.

Q: Is Lisbon safe for tourists?
A: Yes, it is one of the safest capitals in Europe. Just take the usual precautions against pickpockets in busy areas.

Lisbon is a city of contrasts: history and modernity, tradition and bohemianism, authenticity and cosmopolitanism. From here, you can discover treasures such as Sintra, Cascais and Ericeira – always with the peace of mind of professional guidance.

At Cooltour Oporto, we offer the best recommendations for guided tours in Lisbon — from historic Lisbon to boat and bicycle tours, including gastronomic tours. For those who want to go further, we also organise private excursions to Sintra, with local guides who are passionate about sharing the true Portuguese spirit.

🌱 Travel consciously: all our tours have a sustainable component and we support local partners, prioritising authentic experiences and promoting responsible tourism in Portugal.