There are very few cities I visit where I immediately think, “Yes, I could live here.” But Lisbon is absolutely one of them.
Set across seven steep hills overlooking the River Tagus, Portugal’s capital is a vibrant, sun-soaked maze of pastel-coloured buildings, incredible seafood, and ancient heritage.
Whether you are wandering through the historic streets during the chaotic joy of the Feast of St Anthony (the famous June sardine festival) or escaping for a quiet shoulder-season break, it is a city that gets under your skin.
Lisbon Need-to-Know:
The “Slippery” Cobblestones:
Lisbon is famously hilly, but the real secret is the calçada portuguesa—the beautiful traditional limestone pavements. They look stunning but become notoriously slippery, especially if there is a bit of rain. Leave the fashion footwear at home and pack your most grippy, comfortable walking shoes.
Navigating Tram 28:
The historic yellow Tram 28 is a brilliant way to see the city, but it is heavily targeted by pickpockets. Keep a close hand on your belongings, and try to ride it early in the morning (around 8:00 AM) to avoid the massive, hours-long queues.
Best Time to Visit:
May/June or September/October offer perfect walking temperatures and fewer crowds.
1. Get Lost in the Streets of Alfama (and Find a Miradouro)
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest district, a labyrinth of rambling, narrow alleys that miraculously survived the devastating 1755 earthquake.
For someone who loves diving into history, this is the most atmospheric part of the city.
You don’t need a strict map here; the best way to experience Alfama is to simply wander among the tiny squares and ancient churches adorned with traditional azulejo tiles.
Photography Tip: Lisbon is famous for its Miradouros (viewpoints). If you want to capture the true essence of the city without the midday crowds, head up to the Miradouro das Portas do Sol or Miradouro de Santa Luzia just after sunrise.
Alternatively, grab a cheap local beer and head up there at sunset. The golden hour light hitting the pastel walls and the sweeping views across the terracotta roofs to the river are spectacular.
2. Feast Your Way Through the City
You simply cannot visit Lisbon without indulging in the local food scene.
The Mercado Da Ribeira (Time Out Market):
This is a literal treasure trove for foodies. Set inside a historic market hall, it brings together some of the city’s best chefs under one roof.
Go with an empty stomach—I highly recommend treating it like a tasting menu, grabbing a small plate from several different stalls.
Fresh Seafood:
For something more traditional, the relaxed, bustling Cervejaria Ramiro is legendary for its fresh seafood and grilled sardines.
It’s a favourite for a reason, so expect a lively, noisy, brilliant atmosphere.
The Best Pastéis de Nata:
You will need fuel for walking those hills!
While every bakery sells these iconic warm custard tarts dusted with cinnamon, you need to try the heavy hitters.
Take a trip to Belém to visit Pastéis de Belém (who hold the original, top-secret monk recipe from 1837), or head to Manteigaria in the city centre, which most locals will quietly tell you makes the best tart in town.
3. Escape to the Fairytale Palaces of Sintra
Just a short train ride from the city centre lies Sintra, a hilltop royal sanctuary that genuinely feels like stepping into a storybook.
Even if you visit on a foggy day, the micro-climate here adds to the drama.
The area is packed with lush forests, beautiful gardens, and the famous, brightly coloured Pena Palace. Be prepared to hike, though!
The walks up to the Moorish Castle and the palaces are steep. Layer up, grab your daypack, and treat it like a proper trail day. (You can read our full, dedicated guide to exploring Sintra here).
4. Experience the Nightlife of Bairro Alto
When the sun goes down, the Bairro Alto district comes alive.
By day, it’s a sleepy network of narrow streets, but by night, it transforms into the heart of Lisbon’s nightlife.
The area is packed with tiny, under-the-arches bars, traditional Fado music venues, and vibrant restaurants.
Because the venues are so small, the crowds inevitably spill out onto the cobbled streets, creating an incredible, open-air street party atmosphere.
It is the perfect place to hop from bar to bar. Just a tip: avoid heading here in a massive group, as space inside the venues is notoriously tight!
5. Catch the Train for a Beach Day
One of the best things about Lisbon is how easy it is to combine a city break with the coast. You don’t need a hire car; a cheap, scenic train line runs right out of the city from Cais do Sodré station along the water.
Within 30 minutes, you can be at Praia de Carcavelos, catching some rays on a wide, stretching sandy beach.
It’s the perfect way to rest your legs after a few days of pounding the steep city pavements, offering a brilliant contrast to the hustle and bustle of the capital.
Whether you are navigating the ancient alleys with your camera in hand or tucking into fresh seafood by the river, Lisbon is a city that delivers on every front.
If you want to look at an amazing accommodation not far from Lisbon then check out our full review of Villa Epicurea.
Have you been? Let me know your favourite spots in the comments below!
