Welcome to Lisbon!
Each page opens with an inspirational video. If you have the time, sit back and enjoy. These filmmakers have an incredible passion for travel and we want to share their talent. After watching, we hope to give you a reason to read on….
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About Lisbon
Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world. It is the second oldest European capital city after Athens, Greece. The city sits right on the Atlantic Ocean and the River Tagus. There are many historic and charming neighborhoods to visit.
One of the most popular towns in Lisbon includes Baixa. This central neighborhood is the liveliest neighborhood in Lisbon. It was rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755. Praça do Comércio is in the main square. There is always something happening in this part of town. Elevador Santa Justa. This elevator was designed by Raul Mesnier de Ponsard, a student of Gustave Eiffel who designed the Eiffel Tower. The are many great neighborhoods, all with unique character. Chiado is really Lisbon’s main shopping district. Here you’ll find everything from boutique clothing stores to household brand names, Alfama is an authentic fishing neighborhood located between the Atlantic Ocean and Lisbon’s São Jorge Castle. It is where Fado (a traditional song) was created. Although Graça is located next to touristy neighborhoods like Alfama and Castelo, the restaurants and pastelarias are still very traditional, very Portuguese, and very affordable. These neighborhoods are set on many hills, so if you can, grab an iconic trolley car for the experience as well as great views of the city. Bairro Alta (tall neighborhood) is one of those on top of a hill that is worth visiting. A Ginijihha is an iconic experience that you must check out when visiting the city. It is a small, standing room only, a bar, there since the 1840s, that serves this incredible cherry liquor at 1.20 Euro a shot. It is a tradition in Portugal so you must try at least one!
One of Lisbon’s neighborhoods that is close to the river is Belém. There are two beautiful points of interest, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Belém Tower. Built in 1514, Belem Tower was the place where explorers embarked on their journey. Not too far from there is the Monument of the Discoveries. It was built in the 1960s as a recognition of the many Portuguese explorers that left to discover new parts of the world. While in Belem, you must try one of the most famous pastries of Portugal, pastéis de Belém. They are custard cups with a crunchy crust. In other parts of Portugal, they are called Pasteis de Nata.
Thank you to Mikhail Proskalov for an incredibly beautiful and inspiring video. His talent as a film maker. Every time we watch this video it gives us a chill. He makes you feel like you are right there! Click on the video link and subscribe to his channel for more amazing videos! Click Visit Lisbon for city’s official travel site.
City Planning Guide
Maps & Other Resources
Visit the website: GPS My City for many self-guided walks for you to explore. These maps cover everything from historical landmarks to world-class museums, charming neighborhoods, and shopping. Click Explore Maps below to help you determine the best route. You can also download their app to use off line~for Apple HERE & Google Play HERE.
Google Map with Customized Markers
Rick Steves has designed an audio walking guide with map that includes the main landmarks, history, and culture. It is even worth listening to while planning to get a great perspective. Click HERE for the travel app.
Eat Play & Stay
For some of our top recommendations and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, check out the slider below. We have vetted these based on past stays or future bucket list options. There are many other choices that fit each style and taste, so be sure to click the additional links below to narrow down what to do, where to eat, and where to stay.
Feel free to click on the slider or the icon at the top right to stop the slide and the arrow to continue.
This restaurant is ranked as #1 in the city of Lisbon. There is good reason too! Take a look at some of the wonderful options. For an affordable and tasty way to start the day, check out Le Bonne Crepe. You won't be disappointed. Also check it out on Tripadvisor. But click Explore More for their website.
Located in a former convent in the Chiado district, the ambiance, service and food are top notch! There is a great variety, including many fish and beef options. Cocktails are terrific and you must try the Orange Souffle for dessert. Suggestion: Grab a bit here and then head to head out for Fado! Click on the title for more information or Explore More for other options (and don't forgot to click on James Blick's Lisbon Food Tour video below).
We always look for great rooftop bars and restaurants, and outdoor spaces with ambiance, when visiting a city like Lisbon. You cannot go wrong with either choice. Be sure to click on the title of Santa Bica as we wanted to include this as well. It is a casual atmosphere with authentic food. You will not be sorry to visit either or both on your next trip to Lisbon!
this steakhouse has a wonderful atmosphere and great reviews. Time Out Lisbon rates it very highly as well. For a special night out, consider this! Go to Time Out Lisbon or the Fork for other suggetions.
We always advise a free or low cost walking tour when first arriving in a new city. We always look to see if "With Locals" offers tours in the city we are visiting, These tour guides offer personalized tours at affordable prices. You can also look for Free Walking Tours https://freetourportugal.com/. Check out With Locals by clicking Explore More. Whether you grab a tour or not, catch the famous Tram 28 for a scenic trolly ride through the neighborhood of Alfama. Check out ticket info and routes by visiting https://www.lisbonportugaltourism.com/
transportation/tram-28-route-and-stops.html
When looking for activities in a new city, we always suggest finding ways to stay with , eat with or do activities with locals. It is the best way to immerse yourself in the culture of the region. It is oftentimes, life changing. This activity is in that category. Spend an evening with Hugo as he shares the wonderful flavors, aromas and the culture of Lisbon. Hugo has been a home host since 2010. You will see from the reviews that is not just a food experience but a way to meet others from around the world and be welcomed by a local.
Lisbon The Belém Tower, located where the Tagus River meets the Atlantic. Its white stonework is stunning. It was built in 1515 as a beacon and fortress to guard the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor. At one point, It served as a prison. It is most recognized as the departure point for many of the “voyages of discovery”. Not far from there, on the waterfront, is a the DIscovery Monument commemorating the explorers that left Portugal for the new world.VIsit this iconic tower on the waterfront, walk over to the monument, take in the view of sailboats on the harbor, and then head over for a Patais de Belen (custard patais).
Built in 1902 by a student of Gustave Eiffel. Santa Justa Elevator is a sight that offers wonderful views. Some folks comment that it is not worth the money but there are ways around waiting in line. Use the back entrance (next to the old church with no roof), though, and you'll enter at the top elevator level and pay just 1.5 Euros to go up the stairs. Nearby is the Carm Convent (the ruins have been in place since the earthquake of 1755).
This guest house is is in one of the most prime locations in all of Lisbon, along with being one of the most affordable. If you are lucky enough to book the room with the balcony, you will be able to see the Sao Jorge Castle, as well as the Carmo Convent and Santa Justa Elevator which is right next door. Take breakfast on the balcony and enjoy this amazing city! Check it out on Booking.com
For an incredible view and amazing location, you must check out this place. The reviews are wonderful. Location is perfect! For 2-3 people, this is ideal. Airbnb offers a lot of terrific apartments that are within walking distance to many attractions. Be sure to check out Airbnb for other options as well.
This guest house is a former 19th Century palace is located about 650 feet from the Chiado neighborhood. The interior is classic and modern with the ambiance of years past. This is a very affordable option on Booking.com anywhere between $100-$160.
For the most comprehensive travel guides out there, check out Trip Savvy and Culture Trip below! These travel sites hire local writers and expert travelers to share the most relevant articles and best tips. Branding belongs to each respective company.
Get Your Guide Options
Local Spotlight
In the Mood
for Lisbon Part I
This is a “must watch” video. Janz left his desk job and moved to Lisbon. He gives some of the most valuable information that you will find. He truly inspires! Be sure to click Explore More to be taken to his Youtube channel. There you will find so many other amazing introspective videos on sites in Portugal and more. You can also visit his site In the Mood for Life, click HERE.
In the Mood
for Lisbon Part II
We guarantee you will be hooked after the first video. In looking for informative videos on Lisbon, by far these are the best! Janz takes you where the locals go and gives you the inspiration to visit Lisbon! Click Explore More to visit his website In the Mood for Life. And stay tuned, this talented guy is just getting started.
Attache with
Alex Hunter
Alex Hunter and his team take you to Lisbon. He always gives great tips on how to travel in and out of the city and some of the best types of food to try. You cannot deny that he is always entertaining as well, so we think you will get a lot out of this episode.Be sure to click Explore More to be taken to Attache’s Youtube Channel for more amazing and informative videos.
World Wild Hearts
You may have caught on if you have been viewing other pages that we are great fans of World Wild Hearts. We were sold after viewing some of their videos while planning a trip to Greece. Ine and Zac are digital nomads that travel the world and share their experiences. You will not go wrong in following them on Youtube and social media. Do check out the link below to learn more!
More on Lisbon...
with Renata Pereira
Explore Lisbon
Renata is one of the most energetic and informative bloggers we know! Do not hesitate to view her videos from all over the world by clicking below. Being from Brazil she has. a real connection to the Portuguese history of Lisbon. She gives valuable tips on how to get the best out of this amazing city.
Chiado & Bairro Alto
Renata explains the adjacent neighborhoods and their unique personalities plus walks us through the city with helpful tips along the way. Do not miss her other videos from all over the world. We just love her informative approach!
Belem
We find Renata’s videos so helpful so we wanted to include her video on Belem. There are so many secret tips you can learn from her and her passion for the history of the area comes through!
Amateur Traveler
Travel to Lisbon
Chris talks to Nelson Carvalheiro who shares with us his love for his native country. If you have not checked out Amateur Traveler podcasts, it is a must do. If you want to learn about most every corner of the world, Chris probably has an interview.
Off the Beaten Path
Listen to Fado
Fado, a type of Portuguese singing, traditionally associated with pubs and cafés, known for its expressive and melancholic style. The best advice is to AVOID the all in one dinner with Fado as it can overpriced and touristy. Below are some links to the best places to visit a local that showcases Fado! it truly is something very special to the Portuguese!
Epic Food Tour
James, who we met (literally) in Madrid, does a wonderful job taking you to local places to experience food and drink. Before our trip, we watched his videos to get the confidence to order Tapas in Madrid. He always shares places that the average tourist would miss.
Day Trips from Lisbon
Frederico Alves
5 Day Trips
Frederico has his own tour company for day trips from Lisbon and more In this video, he shares some of the best day trips from Lisbon. If you have more time, we suggest staying near Sintra, Obidos, and even Alentejo. Check out his site for some great personalized trips with Frederico as your guide.
Frederico Alves
Why Visit Cascais
Not too far from Lisbon, a beautiful little town on the coast, called Cascais, is worth a visit. Its coast and authentic restaurants have something to offer. Go with Frederico as he shares some great tips.
Virtual Walking Tour ~ Lisbon
by Booking Hunter TV
