Lisbon is the capital and the largest city in Portugal. I went to Lisbon on my first solo trip in 2017 and it was the perfect weekend. Six years later I’m back with Ryan. We took a train from Porto to Lisbon which is 3.5 hour train and spent 4 nights in Lisbon. We spent a total of two weeks in Lisbon starting with Porto, Douro Valley, Lisbon, and Algarve.

Lisbon has some similarities to San Francisco such as the Golden Gate Bridge, trollies, hilly streets and buildings full of charm and colors. Indeed it does! Which makes me love the city even more. I have compiled a list of the best of Lisbon, a quick guide to things to see, do, and eat.

WHERE TO STAY

I had such a great time staying at the Hotel Sofitel downtown in 2017. Read my full review here: Hotel Sofitel Lisbon Review

On my recent trip, we stayed at AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado which I loved because of the location. Staying in this area we were able to walk to everything within 15 minutes. It’s also just blocks away from Commerce Square and the main square with all restaurants and shops.

Pestana Rua Augusta is another great option. It’s located right at the entrance of Commerce Square and across from the main square.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

MIRADOURO

Miradouro’s are viewpoints throughout the city. A must visit at least 2-3 but there are plenty throughout the city. I visited Miradouro da Graca, the most popular one Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia which is just around the corner from each other.

ST GEORGE’S CASTLE

St George’s Castle is a must for anyone visiting Lisbon. I visited on my first trip, the castle overlooks the city and has over 1000 years of history! You’re able to climb to the top of the castle which provides a stunning 360 view.

EXPLORE ALFAMA

The oldest town of Lisbon. Get lost, explore and find yourself eating ice cream between the streets.

RIDE TRAM 28 AT ELEVADOR DA BICA

This iconic tram rides along the city to the most iconic sites. The entrance to the tram is at Elevador Da Bica.

PINK STREET

Pink Street was once Lisbon’s red light district. It’s now home to many restaurants and bars and gets pretty wild at night. If you want photos, you will need to go in the morning or daytime to get the street empty and clean. It’s worth a visit, especially with the hanging umbrellas.

COMMERCE SQUARE

Praça do Comércio is where the old Royal Palace used to exist before it was destroyed by the earthquake of 1755. Across from the square is the main square with many restaurants and shops. Make sure to visit Manteigaria for the best pastel de natas and if you want to try a cod fish cake go to Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau.

ELEVADOR DE SANTA JUSTA

I did not get a chance to go up the Elevador de Santa Justa but if you have time I highly recommend it! You will get stunning views right in the center of the city!

JERONIMOS MONASTERY

Jerónimos Monastery is stunning. I highly recommend visiting for a few hours on your way to Belem. Make sure to get advance entrance tickets here.

After your visit make sure to walk over to Pasteis de Belem for the original Pastel de Natas.

BELEM TOWER

This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that started construction in 1515 and was completed in 1519. Make sure to go early as it gets very crowded.

DAY TRIP TO SINTRA

Day Trip to Sintra is a must when visiting Lisbon. It’s where all the beautiful castles are and you will likely spend all day there so wear comfortable shoes! Read my blog post on Sintra for all the details on how to get there and which castles to visit.

WHERE TO EAT

Lisbon has many amazing restaurants listed in the Michelin Guide.

Pastel de Nata at Pasteis de Belem’s, Castro, and Manteigaria in Bairro Alto.

Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau for the cod fish cakes. We visited the location on the main street.

Cervejaria Ramiro – A local favorite! Go at lunch for a shorter wait time and get the garlic shrimp and tiger prawns! They don’t take reservations.

Taberna da Rua das Flores – Another local favorite, they don’t take reservations. We arrived at 5:30 to wait in line and had to come back but we were put on the waitlist. It was worth it and by far my favorite meal of the trip. I highly recommend going here for the best seafood in Porto.

Tagide – If you’re looking for a fancy restaurant, Tagide is great, and has the best view of Lisbon. It’s also part of the Michelin Guide.

Taberna Bairro do Avillez is another Michelin Guide restaurant. This restaurant is unique, it has multiple restaurants in one location and is a pretty trendy spot.

Prado was on my list but we were not able to get reservations. This is highly rated!

If you’re looking for brunch options, I recommend Dear Breakfast (two locations), Nicolau, or Cotidiano.

MORE PORTUGAL TRAVEL POSTS

Fairytale Castles in Sintra

Sofitel Lisbon Luxury Hotel Review

What to do in Porto

Where to Stay in Douro Valley: Lamego Hotel

Where to Stay in Algarve: Tivoli Carvoeiro

Lisbon is now one of my favorite cities in Europe and I can’t wait to return! If you’ve visited, comment below on your favorite thing about Lisbon!