Lisbon Portugal

Overview

Lisbon is Portugal's capital, built on seven hills above the Tagus River and known for its cobbled streets. Yellow trams, azulejo tiles, fado music and pastel de nata define the city. Sintra, Cascais and wild Atlantic coast are all a short trip away.

Getting around

Metro, trams, buses and the Cascais line train all work with one Viva Viagem card. In the hilly centre, tram 28 and the funiculars (Glória) and Santa Justa lift help; trains to Sintra leave from Rossio.

Where to stay

• Alfama – The oldest district, known for narrow lanes, fado houses and São Jorge Castle.
• Baixa and Chiado – The flat grid centre rebuilt by Pombal and elegant Chiado above it, full of shops, cafés and theatres.
• Bairro Alto – Quiet by day, this nightlife district fills with bars and live music after dark.
• Belém – Riverside district of Age of Discovery monuments, museums and the famous pastel de nata bakery.
• Príncipe Real – A calm hilltop district of gardens, boutiques and stylish cafés loved by locals.

Guide topics

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  Food & Drink

  Lisbon's cuisine rests on fish, salt cod and sweet pastries. Market halls and historic bakeries are close enough to taste a lot in one day.

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  Museums

  Lisbon's museums range from azulejo tiles and contemporary art to maritime history and science. Many cluster in Belém and Parque das Nações, so day routes are easy to build.

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  Hiking

  Lisbon offers easy viewpoint walks, Monsanto forest and the Tagus riverfront. Sintra, Cascais and Arrábida add mountain and coast trails less than two hours away.

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  Extreme Sports

  Around Lisbon, Atlantic waves invite surfing and kitesurfing, while Arrábida's clear waters suit diving. Most activities are within an hour of the city.

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  Culture

  Lisbon's culture is shaped by fado, azulejos and its seafaring heritage. Quarters that survived the earthquake and Manueline buildings tell the city's story.