The 22 Best Places to Visit in Lisbon

What to See in Lisbon in 3 Days?

Wondering what to see in Lisbon if you only have a few days? The city has so much to offer, but if you’re short on time, don’t miss these top attractions in Lisbon:

• Hop on Tram 28E
• Take in the view from a Miradouro
• Visit Praça do Comércio
• Check out the unique elevators – our pick: Elevador de Santa Justa
• Wander through Alfama and enjoy the view from Castelo de São Jorge
• Stop by Time Out Market for a bite
• Take a half-day trip to Belém

All of these spots can easily be explored on a long weekend.

Our Map of Attractions in Lisbon

To help you get your bearings, we’ve put together a map showing where all 22 of our recommended sights in Lisbon are located.

Download the Lisbon attractions map

Typical Lisbon

Let’s start with the sights that really capture the character of Lisbon.

The Tram Line 28E

Riding the famous Tram 28E is an absolute must when visiting Lisbon! The yellow cars, full of 1940s charm, are iconic and attract plenty of tourists.

The 28E runs from Martim Moniz in the east to its final stop at Campo Ourique in the west, where you’ll also find the Prazeres Cemetery, a real hidden gem of Lisbon.

You’ll pass through some of the city’s most popular neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, Chiado, and Baixa, as well as top sights like Praça do Comércio and Lisbon Cathedral – we’ll show you these later.

The route itself is worth it: the tram climbs the steepest hills and squeezes through narrow streets where only a sheet of paper could fit between the tram and the buildings.

Our tip: Start at the final stop, Campo Ourique. It’s quieter and you’ll usually snag a seat.

Pastéis de Nata

Pastéis de Nata aren’t exactly a sightseeing attraction, but these little tarts alone are reason enough to visit Lisbon.

They’re small puff pastry tarts filled with custard – simply irresistible. Warning: they’re highly addictive! You can find them on almost every street corner.

The pastries were created by nuns at the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. They used the egg whites for their habits and turned the leftover yolks into a new pastry – tada: Pastéis de Nata! Later, the original recipe was sold to the Fabrica Pastéis de Belém.

The recipe is still closely guarded today. Some call all Pastéis “Pastéis de Belém,” but that technically refers only to the ones from the original factory.

Many locals say these are the best in the city, but there are delicious options all over Lisbon – no need to queue every day.

The Best Viewpoints in Lisbon

Besides Pastéis de Nata, Lisbon is full of Miradouros. Miradouro means viewpoint in Portuguese, and with seven hills, the city has no shortage of spectacular views.

We honestly can’t choose a favorite, so here are our top five Miradouros for every occasion:

• Miradouro Portas do Sol – the classic: One of the most beautiful but busiest viewpoints. You get a great view over Alfama, with food stalls and street musicians adding atmosphere.
• Miradouro Graça – for sunsets: Amazing views of Castelo de São Jorge and a favorite spot for locals to watch the sun go down.
• Miradouro Santa Catarina – for the young crowd: In the evenings, this viewpoint fills with young Lisboners, music, chat, and beers. Super relaxed vibe.
• Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara – the picturesque: Overlooks the Tagus and Baixa, with a charming garden featuring fountains, colorful flowers, and sculptures.
• Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte – the hidden gem: Less visited, quiet, with a great view of Mouraria.

Lisbon’s Elevators

The elevators are a key part of Lisbon’s charm – but keep in mind that they’re all currently closed.

Elevador de Santa Justa

These elevators aren’t your typical building lifts.

The 45-meter-tall Elevador de Santa Justa tower has a slight resemblance to the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Two cabins, each holding 29 people, take passengers up and down. At the top, a viewing platform offers stunning panoramic views of Lisbon’s rooftops.

Originally, the elevator wasn’t just for tourists – it’s part of the public transport network. It connects the Baixa neighborhood to Chiado via a bridge, making it easier for locals to avoid climbing Lisbon’s seven hills in the heat.

Our tips for visiting the Elevador de Santa Justa

We actually recommend skipping the ride and just walking across the bridge. There’s always a line, and the real highlight is the view from above, not the elevator itself.

If you do ride it, you can use your Navegante card (formerly Viva Viagem) or day pass. Tickets at the site are available but more expensive.

Elevador da Bica

Elevador da Bica is more of a funicular than a traditional elevator – one of three in Lisbon.

The 250-meter route climbs 45 meters and takes you straight into Bairro Alto. Operating since 1892, the yellow retro cabins have a lot of charm. Side streets show authentic Lisbon life.

Round trips cost 4.30 euros. One-way tickets aren’t available, but your public transport ticket works too.

Elevador da Glória

Next to Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara (#3) is Calçada da Glória, one of Lisbon’s steepest streets.

Elevador da Glória is another of the city’s three funiculars. Apparently the climb was too much for locals. It links Praça de los Restauradores with Bairro Alto.

A round trip costs 4.30 euros, or you can just use a day pass again.

Trendy Lisbon

Lisbon is a really cool city – here’s where to find the hippest neighborhoods you shouldn’t miss.

Time Out Market

Right across from Cais do Sodré train station is the historic Mercado da Ribeira market hall. After a full renovation, it’s now home to the foodie paradise that is Time Out Market.

With over 30 food stalls, you can find everything from traditional Portuguese dishes to burgers, sushi, desserts, and more. If you’ve got a kitchen in your apartment, check out the stalls selling fresh fish, meat, and vegetables too.

Prices range from affordable to on the higher side. Some say it’s a tourist trap, but we don’t see it that way. Our tip: explore the market first and decide where to eat – it’s worth taking your time.

LX Factory

LX Factory is a creative hotspot outside downtown Lisbon. The huge industrial complex in Alcântara once produced fabric and yarn since 1846, before industry slowly moved on.

Today, the former factory houses over 150 restaurants, shops, and creative studios. Strolling through feels a bit like being in Berlin.

Grab a bite, shop for unique items, or just wander around snapping photos. LX Factory is a photographer’s dream in Lisbon, with endless photo opportunities.

Check the website before you go – exhibitions and events happen regularly and are worth catching.

Lisbon’s Most Beautiful Neighborhoods

We love wandering through neighborhoods and narrow streets – and in Lisbon, it’s just a joy.

Alfama and Castelo Neighborhoods

Alfama and Castelo blend so seamlessly that it feels like one neighborhood.

Alfama is one of Lisbon’s most iconic areas, home to landmarks like Castelo São Jorge and the cathedral, yet it still retains its original charm as a fishermen’s neighborhood with a rich history of Arab influence.

Get lost in its narrow streets, spot adorable house facades, traditional azulejos tiles, street art, and laundry hanging across alleys – this is real Lisbon life at its best.

Bairro Alto Neighborhood

Bairro Alto is Lisbon’s nightlife hub. You can enjoy a great meal and finish the night with a delicious cocktail.

The area really comes alive after 9 p.m., attracting a young crowd, but it’s worth exploring during the day too. Rua do Norte, for example, has some cool clothing stores to browse.

Praça do Comércio

Before the 1755 earthquake, a royal waterfront palace stood here. Today, it’s the huge Praça do Comércio, rebuilt to impress visiting dignitaries.

Tourists flock here to admire the square and the Arco Triunfal (Arco da Rua Augusta), which has a viewing platform at the top.

If you’re hungry or need coffee, there are plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby. Plus, the Welcome Center and Lisbon Story Center offer a fun interactive look at the city’s history.

Historic Buildings

Lisbon has no shortage of beautiful architecture. Here are our top picks for historic buildings.

Castelo de São Jorge

Castelo de São Jorge towers over Alfama. With battlements, flags, and eleven towers, it could be straight out of a fairy tale.

Climbing all the steps is a workout, but the views of the old town and the Tagus River from the top are worth it. You’re at one of Lisbon’s highest points.

The ticket line can get long, so we recommend buying online in advance. Guided tours are available if you want more history.

Ticket for Castelo de São Jorge with guide

Lisbon Cathedral

Sé Patriarcal Cathedral is Lisbon’s oldest and most important church. It’s remarkable it’s still standing after earthquakes and decades of history.

From the outside, it looks like a fortress with twin towers. Built on a former mosque, it symbolizes the victory over the Moors.

Inside, the massive nave is impressive. Entry is free for a quick look, but a ticket is needed to see the treasury and sanctuary.

Panteão Nacional - Igreja Santa Engrácia

This stunning white marble church is reminiscent of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Next to the dome, an observation deck 40 meters up offers great views of Alfama. You can take the elevator if you prefer.

Fun fact: the saying “like the construction of Santa Engrácia” refers to something that takes forever – the church took 350 years to complete!

Ticket for the Pantheon with fast access

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

This UNESCO World Heritage monastery is massive, with an almost 300-meter-long park in front. Inside, you’ll find intricate decorations and tiny towers everywhere.

It’s always busy, so we recommend buying tickets online in advance.

Ticket for Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Our tip: Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is near Torre de Belém (#16) and Padrão dos Descobrimentos (#17). You can easily visit all three in one trip.

Torre de Belém

Torre de Belém is a must-visit. Built at the harbor entrance, it served as a watchtower to protect the city.

It’s more like a small fortress with four floors: a bulwark, royal hall, governor’s room, and chapel. The top observation deck, 35 meters up, offers excellent views of Lisbon, the river, and the sea.

Ticket for Belém Tower

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

If you stroll along the riverfront from Torre de Belém, you’ll reach the Padrão dos Descobrimentos – or Monument of the Discoveries.

Built in 1960 to mark the 500th anniversary of Henry the Navigator’s death, it celebrates the age of discoveries.

The monument features 33 important historical figures. We’ll admit, we didn’t recognize them all, but it’s still impressive to see up close.

Modern Buildings in Lisbon

Lisbon also has a modern side. Here are some contemporary sights worth visiting.

Ponte 25 de Abril

Wait, did we just land in San Francisco? Not quite. The red suspension bridge, Ponte 25 de Abril, looks strikingly like the Golden Gate. That’s no coincidence – the same construction company built it.

The bridge links Alcântara and Almada and stretches just over three kilometers, making it the third-longest suspension bridge in the world. Cars run on top, trains underneath. Pedestrians can’t cross, but you can hop on bus line 753 for amazing views over the Tagus River.

Nearby, the Pilar 7 Experience offers a multimedia exhibition about the bridge. The highlight? A glass viewing platform where you can stand right next to the structure.

Ticket for the Pilar 7 Experience

Cristo Rei Statue

On the southern end of Ponte 25 de Abril stands the famous Cristo Rei statue.

It sits atop a 75-meter pedestal, with the statue itself reaching 28 meters – making it one of the tallest structures in Portugal.

Take the elevator to the viewing platform at the statue’s base. The sweeping view of the Tagus River and Lisbon is breathtaking and one of our favorite vantage points in the city.

Our tip: Combine the Cristo Rei visit with a ferry ride across the Tagus. It’s stunning! Alternatively, a guided tour from the Old Town takes care of transport and timings for you.

Tour to Cristo Rei statue with ferry across the Tagus

Parque das Nações

Parque das Nações isn’t really a park – it’s one of Lisbon’s most modern districts and the city’s business hub. With sleek glass buildings and futuristic architecture, it feels cosmopolitan. But there’s more than offices here.

The district was redeveloped for the 1998 World Expo, and today it has several attractions worth visiting:

• Oceanário de Lisboa: one of Europe’s largest aquariums, home to around 8,000 animals including sharks and rays (get tickets here)
• Lisbon Cable Car: glide 30 meters above the Expo grounds for great Tagus River views (get tickets here)
• Pavilhão do Conhecimento: an interactive science museum for all ages (get tickets here)

Many of these attractions are ideal for families. For more tips on visiting Lisbon with kids, check out our dedicated article.

Day Trips from Lisbon

Lisbon is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Here are the day trips you shouldn’t miss!

Beaches near Lisbon

Need a break from sightseeing? Head to a nearby beach for some sun and surf.

Many beaches are just a 40-minute public transport ride away. The water can be chilly, but in summer (July–September), it’s perfect.

One of the closest is Praia de Carcavelos, with 1.5 km of soft sand and great waves for surfing.

A bit farther, about 45 minutes by car, is Praia do Guincho. This quiet natural beach is often windy, making it a hotspot for surfers and kiteboarders.

For more beach tips near Lisbon, check out our guide.

Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon

About 40 minutes by train from Lisbon is Sintra. The main attraction is Palácio Nacional da Pena, a fairy-tale castle with colorful turrets rising above the surrounding forest. Truly magical!

Sintra also has Castelo dos Mouros, the historic town center, and Palácio Nacional de Sintra.

Our tip: Sintra is hilly, so public transport can be tricky. We recommend a guided tour from Lisbon – no waiting for buses, and transfer is included.

Day trip to Sintra from Lisbon

General Tips: the Best Way to Visit Lisbon’s Sights

To wrap things up, here are some practical travel tips to help you get the most out of your time in Lisbon.

#1 Book a central hotel

If you want to see as much of Lisbon as possible, it makes sense to stay in the city center. We’ve got some great recommendations for where to stay in Lisbon.

Still haven’t found the right place? These two articles might help you narrow it down.

#2 Getting around Lisbon

Most of Lisbon’s sights are within walking distance, but public transport is convenient for reaching the hills or exploring farther afield. The Navegante Card is our top recommendation.

The Navegante Card is a rechargeable ticket for Lisbon’s public transport, covering metro, buses, trams, and even the elevators and funiculars.

You can grab a card at any metro station ticket machine for 0.50 euros. Then, load it with a single ticket (1.90 euros), a day pass (from 7.25 euros), or credit that’s deducted per trip. Most rides cost 1.72 euros.

Just swipe the card over the reader at the start of each journey (and again when leaving the metro).

Note: any unused credit on your Navegante Card is non-refundable.

Read more about public transportation in Lisbon

If you prefer sightseeing from a bus, Lisbon’s hop-on hop-off buses are also a good option. All our tips are in this article:

Read more about hop-on hop-off Lisbon

#3 Book a guided tour

City tours are a great way to discover Lisbon. A knowledgeable guide will show you the best spots and insider tips. Here are a few options we love:

• Budget-friendly: Group Tour Lisbon – perfect for first-timers, covering all the main highlights
• Private: Private Walking Tour – ideal for families or groups, with a guide all to yourself
• By bike: Bike Tour from the Old Town to Belém – see even more of the city on two wheels

Want more tips for city tours in Lisbon? You’ll find them all in this article: