Alex's “HomeLisboa.com” Guidebook
Lisbon’s must-see sights
Lisbon is bursting with unique and colourful charm. I’ve rounded up my top things you should do in Lisbon to get a true flavour of the city’s culture and history.
Belém Tower:
Built on the northern bank of the Tagus river as part of the estuary defence system, the Tower of Belém is one of the architectural jewels of the reign of Manuel I. The 100-foot tall tower survived the disastrous earthquake of 1755, and has been restored many times. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Have a light and relaxed snack at the edge of Tagus river in Belem at “A Margem” - a great place to cast off and enjoy a glass of vinho verde, simple salad or cheese plate and charcuterie
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Belém
Belém Tower:
Built on the northern bank of the Tagus river as part of the estuary defence system, the Tower of Belém is one of the architectural jewels of the reign of Manuel I. The 100-foot tall tower survived the disastrous earthquake of 1755, and has been restored many times. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Have a light and relaxed snack at the edge of Tagus river in Belem at “A Margem” - a great place to cast off and enjoy a glass of vinho verde, simple salad or cheese plate and charcuterie
Alfama:
Is the oldest district of Lisbon, spreading on the slope between São Jorge Castle and the Tejo river. Its medieval alleys and outstanding views make it the ideal district to get lost in, as around every corner or steep climb is a delightful tiny plaza, unique shop, funky café or wonderful viewpoint.
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Alfama
Alfama:
Is the oldest district of Lisbon, spreading on the slope between São Jorge Castle and the Tejo river. Its medieval alleys and outstanding views make it the ideal district to get lost in, as around every corner or steep climb is a delightful tiny plaza, unique shop, funky café or wonderful viewpoint.
Bairro Alto:
Is the only district in Lisbon that transforms drastically between day and night. It has been dubbed the bohemian district, and is full of cool shops located on Rua do Norte, as well as endless bars and restaurants. Come night time the cobblestone warren is characterised by its many eclectic night spots. Stop by local favourite Portas Largas for a cocktail, or go dance at chapel-turned-music venue A Capela.
Walk down to Largo de Camões, get a sense of the city center and at historic café “A Brasileira”, order a bica (expresso coffee), pão de Deus (brioche with coconut topping) or a croissant.
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Bairro Alto
21 Tv. InglesinhosBairro Alto:
Is the only district in Lisbon that transforms drastically between day and night. It has been dubbed the bohemian district, and is full of cool shops located on Rua do Norte, as well as endless bars and restaurants. Come night time the cobblestone warren is characterised by its many eclectic night spots. Stop by local favourite Portas Largas for a cocktail, or go dance at chapel-turned-music venue A Capela.
Walk down to Largo de Camões, get a sense of the city center and at historic café “A Brasileira”, order a bica (expresso coffee), pão de Deus (brioche with coconut topping) or a croissant.
Carmo Convent Ruins:
The ruins of this gothic church are evocative reminders of the devastation left by the 1755 earthquake. The city was all but destroyed, and the ancient Carmo convent and church lay in ruins, its library of 5,000 books destroyed. Today the ruined arches stand in the middle of the rebuilt city as a reminder of the worst day in Lisbon’s history.
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Convento do Carmo
27 Largo do CarmoCarmo Convent Ruins:
The ruins of this gothic church are evocative reminders of the devastation left by the 1755 earthquake. The city was all but destroyed, and the ancient Carmo convent and church lay in ruins, its library of 5,000 books destroyed. Today the ruined arches stand in the middle of the rebuilt city as a reminder of the worst day in Lisbon’s history.
Elevador de Santa Justa:
Also called the Carmo Lift, it’s a truly unique tourist attraction. Situated at the end of Rua de Santa Justa, in the historic centre of Lisbon, the Industrial-Age marvel connects the lower streets of the Baixa district to the Largo do Carmo up a 45m elevation. Traditionally part of the city’s public transport system, now the Elevador de Santa Justa features a viewing platform for tourists from across the world to admire the views over the city.
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Ascensor de Santa Justa
R. do OuroElevador de Santa Justa:
Also called the Carmo Lift, it’s a truly unique tourist attraction. Situated at the end of Rua de Santa Justa, in the historic centre of Lisbon, the Industrial-Age marvel connects the lower streets of the Baixa district to the Largo do Carmo up a 45m elevation. Traditionally part of the city’s public transport system, now the Elevador de Santa Justa features a viewing platform for tourists from across the world to admire the views over the city.
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos:
A highlight of any Lisbon sightseeing tour, the 16th-century Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is one of Portugal’s great landmarks and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also known as the Hieronymite convent, the monastery was commissioned by King Manuel I in 1501. Built to honor explorer Vasco da Gama’s epic 1498 voyage to India, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is as much a shining symbol of the Age of Discovery as it is a house of worship.
The factory and shop of Pastéis de Belém is only a short walk away. You can not ( and do not want to!) miss it. The National Coach museum is also close by. The museum has one of the finest collections of historical carriages in the world and is one of the most visited museums of the city.
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Monasterio de los Jerónimos
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos:
A highlight of any Lisbon sightseeing tour, the 16th-century Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is one of Portugal’s great landmarks and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also known as the Hieronymite convent, the monastery was commissioned by King Manuel I in 1501. Built to honor explorer Vasco da Gama’s epic 1498 voyage to India, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is as much a shining symbol of the Age of Discovery as it is a house of worship.
The factory and shop of Pastéis de Belém is only a short walk away. You can not ( and do not want to!) miss it. The National Coach museum is also close by. The museum has one of the finest collections of historical carriages in the world and is one of the most visited museums of the city.
Restaurants / Food scene
Portugal is known for its fresh seafood and decadent wines, and no trip to Lisbon is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Check out some of my favourite spots to eat and snack. Bom apetite!
Experience art from every angle as you eat in one of the most luxurious interiors in Lisbon. What was the Institute of Visual Arts, Design and Marketing is now a collection of seven stunning restaurants across two floors, creating the ultimate dining experience. Options range from gourmet burgers to finer dining on the top levels of the building.
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Palácio Chiado
70 R. do AlecrimExperience art from every angle as you eat in one of the most luxurious interiors in Lisbon. What was the Institute of Visual Arts, Design and Marketing is now a collection of seven stunning restaurants across two floors, creating the ultimate dining experience. Options range from gourmet burgers to finer dining on the top levels of the building.
Pastéis de Belém stand out from the nationally available pastéis de nata. Why? Well, the recipe is famously secret so actually, no one can really explain why. It’s said to have come from the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, and has been produced by this pastry shop since it opened in 1837. All I can say is they are popular for a reason. Expect queues, even in the early morning. But have faith — they are worth the wait. Mmmmmm
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Pastéis de Belém
84 R. de BelémPastéis de Belém stand out from the nationally available pastéis de nata. Why? Well, the recipe is famously secret so actually, no one can really explain why. It’s said to have come from the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, and has been produced by this pastry shop since it opened in 1837. All I can say is they are popular for a reason. Expect queues, even in the early morning. But have faith — they are worth the wait. Mmmmmm
A place that previously housed the city's best vendors now houses its best restaurants and artists. While the wares on offer may differ, the principle is the same: bringing the best of the city under one roof. Always busy but definitely worths a visit !
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Ринок Рібейра
49 Av. 24 de JulhoA place that previously housed the city's best vendors now houses its best restaurants and artists. While the wares on offer may differ, the principle is the same: bringing the best of the city under one roof. Always busy but definitely worths a visit !
Cervejaria Ramiro:
As a cervejaria, beer is high on Ramiro’s list of priorities. But Cervejaria Ramiro is also responsible for some of the best seafood in Lisbon. In a seaside city, tasty fish is easy to find, but Ramiro’s takes it ten steps further. Combine a cosy atmosphere, mouth-watering smells, and incredible flavours, and you’ve got Ramiro’s. Tip: Finish your seafood meal like a local. Ask for a “prego” (steak sandwich).
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Ramiro
1 Av. Alm. ReisCervejaria Ramiro:
As a cervejaria, beer is high on Ramiro’s list of priorities. But Cervejaria Ramiro is also responsible for some of the best seafood in Lisbon. In a seaside city, tasty fish is easy to find, but Ramiro’s takes it ten steps further. Combine a cosy atmosphere, mouth-watering smells, and incredible flavours, and you’ve got Ramiro’s. Tip: Finish your seafood meal like a local. Ask for a “prego” (steak sandwich).
An Australian cafe (with two locations) serving all day brunch and specialty coffee. The food is inspired by life and travels in Australia & Asia, made with seasonal, fresh, ingredients from the local grocer. Plenty of vegetarian & vegan options and very happy to accommodate any dietary requirements. Famous for okonomiyaki, banana bread and housemade pickles and sauces
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Dede's
33 R. de Sant'Ana à LapaAn Australian cafe (with two locations) serving all day brunch and specialty coffee. The food is inspired by life and travels in Australia & Asia, made with seasonal, fresh, ingredients from the local grocer. Plenty of vegetarian & vegan options and very happy to accommodate any dietary requirements. Famous for okonomiyaki, banana bread and housemade pickles and sauces
Hidden gems
Want to see the real Lisbon? Here are some of my favourite hidden gems to add to your list of must-see spots while you’re here. Walk Lisbon like a local.
LxFactory is a collection of converted warehouses under the 25 de Abril bridge. Once unknown to the average tourist, it’s now recognised as one of the coolest corners of Lisbon.
By day, peruse the bookshops, vintage homeware stores and artists’ studios. By night, go for a drink or choose from more than a dozen eateries.
Do not miss bookstore Ler Devagar, housed in an old printworks in the heart of Lx Factory. You will probably be there for hours!!
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Fábrica LX
103 R. Rodrigues de FariaLxFactory is a collection of converted warehouses under the 25 de Abril bridge. Once unknown to the average tourist, it’s now recognised as one of the coolest corners of Lisbon.
By day, peruse the bookshops, vintage homeware stores and artists’ studios. By night, go for a drink or choose from more than a dozen eateries.
Do not miss bookstore Ler Devagar, housed in an old printworks in the heart of Lx Factory. You will probably be there for hours!!
Bookstore Bertrand opened in 1732. this Lisbon staple holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest bookstore still in operation. Over the course of nearly three centuries, it has changed hands several times and had 11 different names (that we know of).
Today it serves Lisbon’s bibliophiles and acts as a space for intellectual and cultural conversations.
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Bertrand
73 75 R. GarrettBookstore Bertrand opened in 1732. this Lisbon staple holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest bookstore still in operation. Over the course of nearly three centuries, it has changed hands several times and had 11 different names (that we know of).
Today it serves Lisbon’s bibliophiles and acts as a space for intellectual and cultural conversations.
MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
This inspiring institution is located in the historic district of Belém. The MAAT invites us to reflect upon our relationship with art, architecture, and technology, and houses exhibitions and events that inspire creative thinking.
Day, its featured monographic exhibition by Carsten Höller (curated by Vicente Todolí), is unmissable. It showcases works focused on themes of light and darkness.
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MAAT
Avenida BrasíliaMAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology
This inspiring institution is located in the historic district of Belém. The MAAT invites us to reflect upon our relationship with art, architecture, and technology, and houses exhibitions and events that inspire creative thinking.
Day, its featured monographic exhibition by Carsten Höller (curated by Vicente Todolí), is unmissable. It showcases works focused on themes of light and darkness.
Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte has one of the most breathtaking views of Lisbon.
If you don’t mind working your glutes and hamstrings, climbing to the top is worth it for the views of the city – especially when it’s lit up at night
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Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
Largo MonteMiradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte has one of the most breathtaking views of Lisbon.
If you don’t mind working your glutes and hamstrings, climbing to the top is worth it for the views of the city – especially when it’s lit up at night
On the sixth floor of a car park, sip a cocktail and be transported to seventh heaven with the fantastic views of Santa Catarina belltowers. The sunset is magical!
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Park
58 Calçada do CombroOn the sixth floor of a car park, sip a cocktail and be transported to seventh heaven with the fantastic views of Santa Catarina belltowers. The sunset is magical!
Witness the strength of Lisbon street knowledge at this gallery run by street art collective Underdogs. Located behind Cais do Sodré (terminal) train station, Underdogs host several solo and group shows throughout the year and runs street art tours of the city
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Underdogs Art Store
56 Rua Fernando PalhaWitness the strength of Lisbon street knowledge at this gallery run by street art collective Underdogs. Located behind Cais do Sodré (terminal) train station, Underdogs host several solo and group shows throughout the year and runs street art tours of the city
Dois Corvos is an independent, family-owned brewery located in the Marvila neighbourhood. The brewery itself is a bit unassuming, as the entrance - a dark grey sliding door with a black crow on it - easily blends into the surroundings.
The brewery runs occasional tours, or you can visit the tao room for a beer tasting and a focaccia sandwich and to take in the sights, sounds and smells of a working brewery.
Dois Corvos - Fábrica
306 Avenida Infante Dom HenriqueDois Corvos is an independent, family-owned brewery located in the Marvila neighbourhood. The brewery itself is a bit unassuming, as the entrance - a dark grey sliding door with a black crow on it - easily blends into the surroundings.
The brewery runs occasional tours, or you can visit the tao room for a beer tasting and a focaccia sandwich and to take in the sights, sounds and smells of a working brewery.
A beautiful store that’s much more than a souvenir shop, selling authentic old Portuguese products.
Their history stretches back generations and have great stories about Portuguese culture associated with them. Making them great presents for foreign visitors to take away, but also for locals to be reminded of the good things that were and are produced in this country.
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A Vida Portuguesa
23 Largo do Intendente Pina ManiqueA beautiful store that’s much more than a souvenir shop, selling authentic old Portuguese products.
Their history stretches back generations and have great stories about Portuguese culture associated with them. Making them great presents for foreign visitors to take away, but also for locals to be reminded of the good things that were and are produced in this country.
Historical Shops
Whether you are visiting Lisbon for the first time, and these addresses are a must, whether you are looking for some unique gifts to bring home, make sure you don't take off without visiting these exclusive historical shops in town.
Artisanal leather gloves for men & women in a stylish neoclassical showcase open since 1925. Quite possibly the world’s smallest shop, Luvaria Ulisses is an Art Deco gem
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Luvaria Ulisses
87 R. do CarmoArtisanal leather gloves for men & women in a stylish neoclassical showcase open since 1925. Quite possibly the world’s smallest shop, Luvaria Ulisses is an Art Deco gem
In the main square of Lisbon's downtown, Rossio, is located the 120 year-old hat shop, Chapelaria Azevedo Rua. When it comes to handcraft and precision, Chapelaria Azevedo Rua has a crown. Since the golden years for the hat business, when no-one could walk around without a hat, this historical shop keeps its charisma and essence. Inside the wooden shelf displays the wide hat's collection. In Winter there are felt hats, fedoras, cashmere and tweed caps. In Summer, Panamas and straw hats.
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Chapelaria Azevedo
69/72 Praça Dom Pedro IVIn the main square of Lisbon's downtown, Rossio, is located the 120 year-old hat shop, Chapelaria Azevedo Rua. When it comes to handcraft and precision, Chapelaria Azevedo Rua has a crown. Since the golden years for the hat business, when no-one could walk around without a hat, this historical shop keeps its charisma and essence. Inside the wooden shelf displays the wide hat's collection. In Winter there are felt hats, fedoras, cashmere and tweed caps. In Summer, Panamas and straw hats.
Fill your bag with tins of sardines, octopus, tuna and squid at this store founded in 1930. There is plenty of choice!!
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Conserveira de Lisboa
34 Rua dos BacalhoeirosFill your bag with tins of sardines, octopus, tuna and squid at this store founded in 1930. There is plenty of choice!!
Experiences
Try these local experiences:
- indulge at decadent Portuguese pastries: pastéis de Belém, pão de Deus, travesseiro de Sintra, queijadas…
- sunset at a Miradouro Santa Catarina,
Tapada das Necessidades, rio Tejo
- surf lesson in Carcavelos beach or Caparica
- discover Lisbon on your lunch break. Some recommended cafes include Dede’s , Boutik, Ortea Vegan Collective, Fauna e Flora, Nicolau, Amelia
Tram 28 passes through all major Lisbon neighbourhoods. You will see side streets you wouldn’t stumble across otherwise. Perfect to get to know the city, the views, architecture details and famous hand painted tiles.
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Tram 28
39 Praça Martim MonizTram 28 passes through all major Lisbon neighbourhoods. You will see side streets you wouldn’t stumble across otherwise. Perfect to get to know the city, the views, architecture details and famous hand painted tiles.
Sunset at Miradouro Santa Catarina or Tapada das Necessidades are a must.
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Miradouro de Santa Catarina
Sunset at Miradouro Santa Catarina or Tapada das Necessidades are a must.
Step into a fairytale on a day trip to Sintra. Visit Pena Palace, Monserrate Palace, Moorish Castle. Indulge in decadent Portuguese pastries at “Piriquita”. Try “travesseiros” and “queijadas de Sintra”
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Sintra
Step into a fairytale on a day trip to Sintra. Visit Pena Palace, Monserrate Palace, Moorish Castle. Indulge in decadent Portuguese pastries at “Piriquita”. Try “travesseiros” and “queijadas de Sintra”
Day trip to Cascais, by train, following the river. Head also to Guincho beach and bar if you are a nature lover.
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Cascais
Day trip to Cascais, by train, following the river. Head also to Guincho beach and bar if you are a nature lover.
Explore the Arrábida natural park and beaches
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Parque Natural de Arrábida
Explore the Arrábida natural park and beaches
Day Trips from Lisbon
There’s no doubt that Lisbon has immense charm, from its brightly-coloured streets to its delicious food to the vibrant culture. But its surrounds are worth a visit, too. Here’s three day trips from Lisbon that you might not have thought of taking (but should!), all an hour or less by train from the Portuguese capital.
This picturesque resort town in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains is a must-do side trip from Lisbon, which is just 30km to the southeast. Its romantic palaces and scenic forests could be straight out of a fairy tale, while the town’s twisting cobblestone streets and beautiful mansions will delight any traveller.
Don’t miss:
* Palácio da Pena– This magnificent hilltop palace is the best example of 19th-century romanticism in Portugal, displaying a revival of Manueline and Moorish architectural styles. It includes a luxurious park with botanical species from all over the world. To get there take the bus (SCOTTURB nº 434) from near the train station, or hike.
* Hiking – Immerse yourself in nature on one of the many forest trails around the town. Beyond the incredible natural sights, it is also a great way to reach the many historical sites and palaces.
* Ride a centenary tram– This historic and charming tram line opened in 1904 and now runs seasonally (to Praia das Maçãs, a scenic beach in Sintra’s surrounds that’s around 11km away. Check out the schedules on Moovit app: Sintra - Praia das Maçãs line
* Tea houses– After all the hiking, stop for tea and an excellent local pastry (try the Queijadas de Sintra and Travesseiros) in Piriquita or one of the cosy tea houses around town.
How to get there:
Take the CP train from Lisbon (Oriente, Roma Areeiro, Sete Rios, Entrecampos, Rossio or Campolide station) to Sintra station. The historic centre is a 10-minute walk
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Sintra
This picturesque resort town in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains is a must-do side trip from Lisbon, which is just 30km to the southeast. Its romantic palaces and scenic forests could be straight out of a fairy tale, while the town’s twisting cobblestone streets and beautiful mansions will delight any traveller.
Don’t miss:
* Palácio da Pena– This magnificent hilltop palace is the best example of 19th-century romanticism in Portugal, displaying a revival of Manueline and Moorish architectural styles. It includes a luxurious park with botanical species from all over the world. To get there take the bus (SCOTTURB nº 434) from near the train station, or hike.
* Hiking – Immerse yourself in nature on one of the many forest trails around the town. Beyond the incredible natural sights, it is also a great way to reach the many historical sites and palaces.
* Ride a centenary tram– This historic and charming tram line opened in 1904 and now runs seasonally (to Praia das Maçãs, a scenic beach in Sintra’s surrounds that’s around 11km away. Check out the schedules on Moovit app: Sintra - Praia das Maçãs line
* Tea houses– After all the hiking, stop for tea and an excellent local pastry (try the Queijadas de Sintra and Travesseiros) in Piriquita or one of the cosy tea houses around town.
How to get there:
Take the CP train from Lisbon (Oriente, Roma Areeiro, Sete Rios, Entrecampos, Rossio or Campolide station) to Sintra station. The historic centre is a 10-minute walk
The thriving port town of Setúbal lies between Sado Bay, one of the world’s most beautiful bays, and Arrábida Natural Park. Located just 50km south of Lisbon, this is an easy day trip by train.
Don’t miss:
* Dolphin watching in Sado Bay – Sign up with a local tour operator for a glimpse of the playful pods of bottlenose dolphins and surrounding beautiful coastal scenery.
* Beautiful beaches– Catch the bus to Figueirinha (TST) or the ferry to Tróia (Atlantic Ferrys), where you’ll be wowed by crystal-clear water, soft sand and scenic green hills.
* A vibrant food market– Mercado do Livramento is one of the world’s best fish markets (with excellent fruit and vegetables too). The art deco building houses some interesting tile panels from the first half of the 20th century.
* Fresh fish and good wine– Feast on fried cuttlefish, a traditional Setúbal dish, and maybe after drink some Moscatel, the region’s world-famous dessert wine.
How to get there:
Take the FERTAGUS train from Roma Areeiro, Sete Rios or Entrecampos station in Lisbon. The journey to Setúbal is less than one hour; from here the historic city centre is a 15-minute walk.
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Setúbal Municipality
The thriving port town of Setúbal lies between Sado Bay, one of the world’s most beautiful bays, and Arrábida Natural Park. Located just 50km south of Lisbon, this is an easy day trip by train.
Don’t miss:
* Dolphin watching in Sado Bay – Sign up with a local tour operator for a glimpse of the playful pods of bottlenose dolphins and surrounding beautiful coastal scenery.
* Beautiful beaches– Catch the bus to Figueirinha (TST) or the ferry to Tróia (Atlantic Ferrys), where you’ll be wowed by crystal-clear water, soft sand and scenic green hills.
* A vibrant food market– Mercado do Livramento is one of the world’s best fish markets (with excellent fruit and vegetables too). The art deco building houses some interesting tile panels from the first half of the 20th century.
* Fresh fish and good wine– Feast on fried cuttlefish, a traditional Setúbal dish, and maybe after drink some Moscatel, the region’s world-famous dessert wine.
How to get there:
Take the FERTAGUS train from Roma Areeiro, Sete Rios or Entrecampos station in Lisbon. The journey to Setúbal is less than one hour; from here the historic city centre is a 15-minute walk.