Exploring with LEXI

If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon, you’re probably wondering which places are actually worth your time. These are the 12 best things to do in Lisbon based on my experience exploring the city.

After spending time exploring the city, I can confidently say Lisbon completely stole my heart. It’s one of those places where you think you have a plan, and then you end up just wandering, finding viewpoints, stopping for coffee, and somehow having one of your favorite days without trying too hard.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or building a longer Portugal itinerary, here are the best things to do in Lisbon for first-time visitors, the ones I’d actually recommend to a friend.

Top 12 Best Things To Do In Lisbon

1. Start at Rua Augusta Arch & Praça do Comércio

If it’s your first time in Lisbon, start here.

Walking through Rua Augusta Arch and stepping out into Praça do Comércio feels like the city officially welcoming you. One minute you’re in a busy shopping street, and the next you’re standing in this massive open square right by the river.

Tip: Walk all the way to the water and then turn back to look at the arch, it’s one of the best views in the area. You can grab a coffee nearby, people-watch, or just sit and enjoy the view of the Tagus River.

It’s also the perfect starting point because from here, you can easily walk into Baixa, head up toward Chiado, or start wandering into Alfama.

2. Ride the Santa Justa Lift

You’ve probably seen photos of this already, the Santa Justa Lift is one of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s this tall, iron elevator right in the middle of the city, and honestly, even if you don’t go up it, it’s still worth seeing just for how unique it looks. It feels a bit random at first… like why is there a gothic-style elevator here? And honestly, going up is supposed to give  you a really nice view over the city, especially around sunset when everything starts to glow a little.

That said… I’ll be honest, I didn’t go up as there are tons of great views around the city and I heard the lines can get long. Like, really long. But the secret is that if you want the view without paying supposedly you can actually access the top viewpoint from nearby streets without taking the lift.

Either way, it’s one of those Lisbon spots that’s worth seeing!

3. Try a Pastel de Nata (and then get another one)

Warm, flaky pastry filled with creamy custard that somehow isn’t too sweet. I ended up going back more than once, and honestly, I would again.The most famous spot is  Manteigaria, you can watch them being made fresh. The line can be long but many shops sell them. I brought these back for my family and they were obsessed with them

Tip: Eat it warm. Don’t rush it. Sit somewhere nearby and actually enjoy it.

4. Watch Sunset at São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint

Lisbon is known for its viewpoints (miradouros), and once you see one at sunset, you’ll understand why. The rooftops, the river, the light, it just hits differently.

My favorite was São Pedro de Alcântara, and If I could only recommend one viewpoint in Lisbon, it would be this one. Golden hour here is magical. But honestly, there are so many good ones.

Tip: Go early. Get some gelato or a drink and then enjoy the views

5. Get Lost in Alfama

If Lisbon has a soul, it’s definitely Alfama.

This is the part of the city where Google Maps stops being helpful and you just have to go with it. The streets are narrow, a little uneven, and constantly twisting into each other. Wander through the narrow streets, discover hidden squares, and listen for Fado music coming from local restaurants. Alfama is consistently considered one of Lisbon’s most important neighborhoods to experience. I know many people who say these is there famous area to be in and stay.

6. Try Lisbon’s Signature Drink (and a Quick Bite)

One thing I always try to do when traveling is eat or drink what locals actually have.

In Lisbon, that meant trying Ginjinha, a traditional cherry liqueur you’ll find all over the city, and grabbing a bifana, a simple but really good pork sandwich.

What I loved most wasn’t just the food itself, but how you experience it. Most of these spots are tiny, standing-room-only places with no real seating. You order, chat for a second with the person behind the counter, take your shot or grab your sandwich, and just enjoy it right there on the sidewalk. It’s quick and feels way more local than sitting down at a restaurant.

Tip: Don’t overthink where to go. If you see a small spot with locals standing outside, that’s usually a good sign.

7. Visit Carmo Convent

A roofless church open to the sky sounds weird or unusual… and it is.

It’s a roofless church that survived an earthquake that happened in 1755. And it was one of the most striking places I visited in Lisbon. There’s just something about standing inside a historic building with the sky above you that just feels different.

8. Spend a Day in Belém (Tower + Monastery)

If you’re looking for the most iconic landmarks in Lisbon, they’re in Belém.

Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery are both must-see, especially for first-time visitors. The architecture alone is worth the trip. I was sad that i missed this as the weather got so bad on the day I was planning to attend but from the photos alone i have seen of these place i know its a must visit. 

Tip: Visit both on the same day, they’re right next to each other.

9. Explore Time Out Market — One of Lisbon’s Best Food Experiences

If you want to try a bit of everything, go here. Time Out Market brings together some of Lisbon’s best food in one place, so you don’t have to choose just one restaurant (about 35 restaurants under one roof).

It’s busy, a little chaotic, but worth it. When I posted about this place on social media, people were creating a fuss because it’s a tourist place saying don’t eat there. Personally, I don’t think just because it’s designed for tourists means it’s a bad visit. I like to joke that you don’t go to Paris and not see the Eiffel tower or go to London and not eat fish and chips.  To me this is a great spot to try a bunch of different food in one place. And good food too! Yes you will see mostly other travelers there but who cares if the food is good I will be there.

10. Visit Bertrand Chiado

The oldest operating bookstore in the world.

Even if you’re not a book lover, it’s worth stopping by for the history alone.

11. Take a Day Trip to Sintra

If you only take one day trip from Lisbon, make it Sintra. I have heard that it feels completely different from the city, more like a fairytale town than anything else.

Pena Palace is the highlight, and it’s one of the most famous places to visit in Portugal.

12. Visit Museu do Aljube

This museum tells the story of Portugal’s resistance to dictatorship.

It’s not the most famous museum in Lisbon, but it was one of the most meaningful experiences of my trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lisbon

Is Lisbon worth visiting?

Absolutely —  especially if you love a mix of history, food, rich culture and scenic views. It’s also more affordable than many other European capitals, which makes it a great option if you want to enjoy world-class experiences without overspending.

How many days do you need in Lisbon?

For a first-time trip, 3 to 4 days is ideal.

That gives you enough time to explore the main neighborhoods, visit Belém, enjoy a few viewpoints, and take a day trip to somewhere like Sintra or Cascais.

Is Lisbon walkable?

Yes, Lisbon is very walkable — but it’s hillier than you expect.

You’ll end up walking a lot, especially in areas like Alfama, so comfortable shoes are a must. The hills can be tiring, but they’re also why the views are so good.

What is Lisbon known for?

Lisbon is known for its:

• Colorful neighborhoods
• Historic trams
• Viewpoints (miradouros)
• Pastel de nata pastries
• Azulejo tiles
• Fado music
• Coastal day trips

It’s really the combination of all these things that makes the city feel so unique.

What is the best time to visit Lisbon?

I stand by traveling in the fall in general as there is less crowds and prices are cheaper but the internet says The best time to visit Lisbon is spring (April–June) and fall (September–October).

The weather is warm, the crowds are smaller than peak summer, and it’s much more comfortable for walking around the city.

Summer is also a great time to visit, but it can get hot and crowded.

Planning Your Lisbon Trip?

This guide covers the best things to do, but if you’re planning your entire trip, check out my full Lisbon Travel Guide (2026) where I share where to stay, what to eat, neighborhood recommendations, budgeting advice, and a suggested 3-day itinerary based on my own experience exploring the city.

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