Lisbon has many beautiful places to visit, that you will find out with this guide to the top attractions in Lisbon

Lisbon boasts a rich history and diverse cultural offerings that appeal to travelers from around the world. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking viewpoints. From the historic Alfama district to the majestic Belém Tower, Lisbon is a treasure trove of captivating attractions waiting to be explored. Whether you’re drawn to its iconic landmarks, charming neighborhoods, or scenic riverfront, Lisbon offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Explore this guide to discover the best places to visit in this enchanting city, that is also the town I was born and lived until my late 20s.

THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN LISBON

This list of must see places in Lisbon will give you the diversity of different experiences you can have in Lisbon , where I will describe is it worth visiting and some travel tips about these top attractions:

1. RUA AUGUSTA STREET & PRACA DO COMERCIO SQUARE
2. LISBON CASTLE OF ST GEORGE (Castelo de Sao Jorge)
3. LISBON CATHEDRAL (Sé de Lisboa)
4. SANTA LUZIA & SAO VICENTES VIEWPOINTS
5. CARMO CONVENT (Convento do Carmo)
6. CHIADO & BAIRRO ALTO STREETS
7. SANTA JUSTA LIFT (Elevador de Santa Justa)
8. NOSSA SENHORA DO MONTE VIEWPOINT
9. BELÉM TOWER & DISCOVERIES MONUMENT (Torre de Belém e Padrao dos Descobrimentos)
10. JERÓNIMOS MONASTERY (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)
11. ROSSIO SQUARE & STATION (Praca do Rossio e Estacao do Rossio)
12. MARQUES DE POMBAL & AVENIDA DA LIBERDADE
13. ALCANTARA DOCKS & LX FACTORY MARKET
14. CHRIST THE REDEEMER STATUE (Cristo Rei)
15. ALMADA PONTO FINAL
16. SAO ROQUE CHURCH (Igreja de Sao Roque)
17. LISBON FUNICULAR GLORIA (Elevador da Glória)
18. LISBON FUNICULAR BICA (Elevador da Bica)
19. NATIONAL PANTHEON (Panteao Nacional)
20. ALFAMA DISTRICT (Bairro de Alfama)
21. PINK STREET (Rua Nova do Carvalho)

Looking at a map this would be how these top things to do would be located:

RUA AUGUSTA STREET & COMERCIO SQUARE

Rua Augusta is a vibrant pedestrian street in Lisbon, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, offering some artists and shows along the way as it connects the Rossio Square area with Praca do Comercio square near the river.

At the end of the street, you’ll find the iconic Triumphal Arch leading to the Praça do Comércio square, a historic and beautiful arch that you can climb for amazing views of whole Rua Augusta street, the castle hill and the river Tagus. Entry costs only 3€ and its an easy climb up. Note that this Arch and the whole Rua Augusta street were completely rebuilt after the devastating eartquake that completely destroyed Lisbons downtown in 1755. .

Praca do Comercio has also become pedestrian friendly and is one lovely area with its many terrasses, yellow trams passing by and of course to sit by the river enjoying the sun and the view of the Red Bridge and Christ the Redeemer statue. At its center is the statue of the king that rebuilt Lisbon on the 18th century. called D.Jose I , one of the most wealthy kings of Europe at the time,.

LISBON CASTLE SAO JORGE (CASTELO DE São Jorge)

The São Jorge was originally built by the Moors in the mid-11th century. The medieval castle played a crucial role in the medieval crusades as on the 12th century, São Jorge Castle was taken from the Moors by the forces of Portugal’s first king, Afonso Henriques with the help of crusaders going to the Holy Land over Lisbon . It became a royal residence for Portuguese kings and later on as a prison before falling into disrepair by the 18th century, curiously being spared by the terrible Lisbon earthquake of 1755. On the 20th century, extensive restoration work was carried out, transforming São Jorge Castle into the landmark it is today.

So visitors to the castle can explore its imposing walls, archaeological sites, and enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River, that for me rank among the best over Lisbon downtown. I especially liked it walking on the walls and the beautiful evening as the sun starts to set over Lisbon.

The Sao Jorge Castle in Lisbon opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 9:00 PM from March to October. From November to February, it closes at 6:00 PM.

Ticket prices are 10 euros for adults and free for children under 10 years old. There are also discounts available for students and seniors.

LISBON CATHEDRAL (SÉ DE LISBOA)

Lisbon Cathedral, known as Sé de Lisboa, is the oldest church in the city, with its origins dating back to the 12th century. Built in a Romanesque style, it has undergone various reconstructions and renovations over the centuries, including significant modifications after the devastating earthquake of 1755. It kind of looks like a small Notre Dame cathedral with its two church towers and entrance.

Its located on the way up to the Sao Jorge Castle, so you can’t miss it either if you walk up , take the tram or local moto tuk tuk tours. After you visit the Lisbon cathedral, make sure that you check the Lisbon patron saint church of Santo Antonio on the way up to your left.

The Lisbon Cathedral, known as Sé de Lisboa, is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Sunday: 9:00 AM to 5:45 PM

As for the Lisbon Cathedral entry fee, it costs for adults 5€ and children (ages 10 to 14) is €3. Tthere are discounts available for seniors and students.

SANTA LUZIA & SAO VICENTE VIEWPOINTS

Santa Luzia is the most photogenic viewpoint of Lisbon with its colourful bougainvillea trees, blue and white mosaics and the panoramic views of old Lisbon. Its a great place to watch the sunrise if you wake up early. Its very popular and stands between Castle and Alfama districts, so mind some crowds but its absolutely worth the effort to take that special Lisbon photo.

Right around the church of Santa Luzia, a few minutes walk is the Sao Vicente viewpoint that offers a brilliant sight to the Alfama district with its red tiled roofs and churches. Its also a very famous spot to take some yellow tram pictures as they ride up and downhill here very often.

The great news is that these 2 viewpoints are absolutely FREE of charge.

CARMO CONVENT (Convento do Carmo)

The Carmo Convent in Lisbon is a historical convent that was founded in the mid-14th century by the Carmelite order. The convent and its church were severely damaged during the devastating earthquake of 1755, leaving its roofless nave as a striking reminder of the natural disaster.

The ruins and part of the building now serve as an archeological museum that really has beautiful pieces including tiles and altars but I like most the place after the entrance as the ruins reveal to yourself under the sky. Try to go as early as possible as this a highly visited monument in Lisbon located on Lisbon’s heart.

The Carmo convent opens at 10:00 AM and closes at 7:00 PM daily. The entrance fee is 5 euros for adults, while children under 14 can enter for free. There are also discounts available for seniors and students.

CHIADO & BAIRRO ALTO STREETS

One of the most elegant districts of Lisbon is Chiado with its cobbled streets covered with beautiful stone patterns, some narrow alleys filled with bars and alleys and the always glamorous Chiado square are the highlights as you climb the 2nd biggest hill of Lisbon. Chiado also has the famous “A Brasileira” café, an early 20th century café that is the icon of Chiado. Have also a look to the oldest bookstore of Lisbon called Bertrand and take a picture with the famous local poet Fernando Pessoa or with the hero poet Luis de Camoes at the square.

Bairro Alto is also really nice to stroll and has some very traditional restaurants. It becomes very busy at night as younger people come here to party. But there is something on the narrow alleys and houses that pull you in to discover it in detail.

SANTA JUSTA LIFT (Elevador de Santa Justa)

The Santa Justa Lift in Lisbon is a historic iron elevator that connects the Baixa district to the higher Carmo Square. Designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel, this unique structure was completed in 1902 and was originally powered by steam. The panoramic view of Lisbon’s downtown and the Tagus River at its high platform. Due to its central location, its always crowded during Summertime and you need to wait in line.

The Santa Justa Lift is open daily from 7:30 AM to 11:00 PM. The entry fee for the Santa Justa Lift is 5.30 euros for adults. Children under 12 years old may enter for a reduced fee.

NOSSA SENHORA DO MONTE VIEWPOINT

For me the most beautiful view of Lisbon in Lisbon is at the stunning 360 viewpoint of Nossa Senhora do Monte, located on a hill just opposite the castle but with even more panoramic views of the whole town, river Tagus and Red bridge plus the ocean on the far end.

Its specially wonderful at the sunset hours as travelers and locals blend in here to watch the day fade away with beautiful colours over the horizon. Usually there are some local guitar musicians playing there adding some incredible atmosphere to the moment itself. Can definitely recommend it as the must go place.

BELÉM TOWER & DISCOVERIES MONUMENT (Torre de Belém e Padrao dos Descobrimentos)

Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built in the early 16th century as a fortress to guard the entrance of the harbor of Lisbon. It played a key role during the Age of Discoveries and served as a departure point for sea explorers. The tower showcases beautiful Neoclassical architecture blended with the Portuguese Manueline style.. It eventually served also as prison during the right wing dictatorship until 1974, becoming afterward one of the Lisbon most famous monuments. The interior is not as beautiful as the exterior but its worth having a look into its history.

Only 10 minutes walk away from Belém Tower, the Discoveries Monument, constructed in 1960, commemorates the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator. It celebrates the Age of Discoveries and pays tribute to key figures of Portuguese exploration on the prow of a ship. You can then get the panoramic lift to the viewing platform for beautiful views of the whole Belém area, river Tagus and the Red bridge over the river plus Christ the Redeemer.

The Belém Tower in Lisbon opens to visitors from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Mondays. The Belém Tower entry fee for adults is 6 euros, with reduced rates available for children and seniors. Please note that entry is free for children under the age of 12.

The Discoveries Monument is open to visitors every day from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The entry fee for adults is €5, while children under 12 can enter for free. For students and seniors, the entry fee is reduced to €3. There are also group rates available for parties of 10 or more.

JERÓNIMOS MONASTERY

The Jerónimos Monastery is another UNESCO site in Lisbon, located in Belém area, having being built by King Manuel I in the early 16th century to celebrate Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India and to honor the Virgin Mary. The monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture with many maritime motifs. Its construction took about 100 years to complete, and it stands as a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

The church is absolutely beautiful, with incredible architecture details and is the last home for several Portuguese kings, artists and sea explorers. The cloister can be visited separately and is a beautiful travel photography spot.

The Jerónimos Monastery is open to visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM from Tuesday to Sunday and is closed on Mondays. The ticket costs for the Jerónims monastery for adults is €10, while the entry fee for children (ages 13 to 18) is €5.

At the end of your visit, just go to the famous 19th century bakery “Pastéis de Belém” where the original warm egg custard tarts called “pastéis de Nata” are baked around the clock, either at the beautiful bakery interior or then at the beautiful Belém gardens.

Also drop a quick visit to the pink presidential palace of Portugal just a few minutes away and if you have time still visit the historical horse carriages museum (Museu dos Coches) only 5 minutes away.

ROSSIO SQUARE & STATION

Rossio square is at the heart of Lisbon downtown and is the most beautiful square in Lisbon. The pavement beautiful patterns, the fountains, the national Theater D.Maria II , the church of Sao Domingos, the many 18th century buildings with tiles and the absolutely magnificent building that serves as subway/ train station are all testimony to the beauty of Lisbon.

Rossio square is also a great starting point for a day itinerary in Lisbon old town as its connected to all top attractions, that you can walk from or then take the yellow trams from nearby Praca da Figueira or Chiado .

MARQUES DE POMBAL & AVENIDA DA LIBERDADE

Marques de Pombal monument at the roundabout (Rotunda in portuguese) of Marques de Pombal is rightful homage to the minister that helped rebuild Lisbon after the devastating 1755 earthquake, still one of the strongest ever recorded in Europe to date. He basically took the mandate of the king D.José I and replanned the whole downtown with the best architects in Europe and it still stands.

Whilst you can’t climb to the statue itself, you can admire it from the nearby Parque Eduardo VII that from the top offers terrific views of Lisbon downtown, including the beautiful tree lined Avenida da Liberdade street.

Avenida da Liberdade was planned based on the famous Paris avenues and lives to its elegant counterpart as it hosts several luxury brands shops, cinemas , theaters , restaurants and boutique hotels all the way to Restauradores square. So even if you are not shopping, the buildings architecture along the avenue and the beautifully decorated pavement are worth the walk.

ALCANTARA DOCKS & LX FACTORY MARKET

Alcantara is one of the most famous districts in Lisbon by the riverside with a prime location right below the famous red bridge of Lisbon, a copy of Golden Gate suspension bridge in San Francisco, it was the same company designing it.

The old docks warehouses were completely refurbished and now host trendy restaurants with all types of food, bars with music and views to die for from the bridge over Tagus River. Its also the place of a small marina from where small cruises depart among other locations.

Across the avenue separating Alcantara riverside and the inner district, there is now a trendy handcrafted and workshops market, plus restaurants and several nice shops with affordable design articles called LX Factory. Its a very lively area recently discovered by tourists, so it will be sometimes crowded.

The most beautiful bookstore in Lisbon called Ler Devagar is also located at LX Fcatory, a former printer factory now used as a workspace and book shop. Have also a look to the Fish cans stunning shop of and have a drink at the rooftop of LX Hostel.

CHRIST THE REDEEMER STATUE (Cristo Rei)

The Cristo Rei statue in Almada, just across the river, was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was inaugurated in 1959 as a symbol of gratitude for Portugal’s neutrality during World War II. The statue stands at a height of 82 meters and offers panoramic views of Lisbon and the Tagus River, being actually higher than its Brazilian counterpart.

You can get to Cristo Rei statue from Lisbon downtown by ferry or bus. For the ferry , head to Cais do Sodré station and tak e the ferry across the Tagus River to Cacilhas. Then you can walk for 30 minues or take a bus or a taxi to Cristo Rei. By Bus, take bus number 753 from the bus stop at Praça do Comércio (near the waterfront) and drop off in Almada. From there walk to the statue or take a taxi.

The Cristo Rei statue opening hours are from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last elevator going up to the viewpoint at 5:30 PM. The entry fee for adults is 6 euros, while children aged 5-12 can enter for a reduced fee of 4 euros. Children under 5 years old have free admission.

ALMADA PONTO FINAL

It was a hidden gem but now it became a popular spot for most visitors to Lisbon to watch the sunset,m even if its not in Lisbon! Its located on Cais do Ginjal, a small distríct of Almada and it offers the best sunset perspective of the sunset as the Almada riverside is facing west.

Ponto Final is the most famous restaurant in the area but there a few others nearby if this is too crowded (and it will be in Summer). There is also a nice garden after Ponto Final restaurant that you can walk easily in 2-3 minutes and a free panoramic lift that works until 8pm to take you high up to a viewpoint bridge.

To get to “Ponto Final” in Almada, you can take a ferry from Cais do Sodré in Lisbon in the direction of Cacilhas, Almada. The ferry ride offers a scenic view of the Tagus River and takes around 15-20 minutes to reach Almada. Once you arrive at the terminal in Cacilhas, walk along the docks for another 10-15 minutes and you will reach “Ponto Final” restaurant area. SECRET TIP: reserve per e-mail in advance or prepare to wait a long time during Summer.

SAO ROQUE CHURCH (Igreja de Sao Roque)

The São Roque Church in Lisbon is an architectural gem built in the 16th century, it is considered one of the earliest Jesuit churches and a fine example of Mannerist architecture. Despite its relatively normal façade, the church the highesst valued interior adorned with intricate woodwork made of gold leaves, gilded altars, and stunning paintings.

São Roque Church is open Monday to Sunday from 9am to 7pm Opening Times and Ticket Cost is 3€, Reduced (students, seniors): 1.50€, Free entry for children under 12. Admission is free for all visitors on Wednesdays.

LISBON FUNICULAR OF GLORIA (Elevador da Glória)

The Gloria Funicular/ Elevador da Glória is a historic funicular railway inaugurated in 1885. The funicular was designed to provide transportation for the residents of the hilly Bairro Alto district, connecting the lower streets near the Avenida da Liberdade to the higher Bairro Alto area.

Now being used mainly as a tourist attraction, Gloria funicular a great photo place and the ride is really nice as it will be very close to the houses. Uphill you have the great viewpoint of Sao Pedro de Alcantara from where you can see the Castle hill and downhill its the lovely Restauradores square and the start of the luxury shopping avenue of Lisbon, called Avenida da Liberdade.

LISBON FUNICULAR OF BICA (Elevador da Bica)

The Elevador da Bica is another historic funicular railway, being located in the central Bica neighborhood of Lisbon. It was inaugurated in 1892 and was originally powered by a water balance system. The funicular played a vital role in providing transportation for the residents of the hilly Bica area, connecting the lower streets near the waterfront to the higher Bairro Alto district.

Now it became one of the most popular tourist attraction, because of the nice ride but also for its street , Rua da Bica, being one the most photogenic spots. Check also the streets crossing over as there really many beautiful ones covered with bougainvilleas and beautiful trees in very steep stairs from both sides.

The Bica funicular operates daily from 7:00 AM to 10:45 PM. The ticket cost for the Bica funicular is 4.50 euros for a single trip. Alternatively, a 24-hour unlimited pass for the entire Lisbon public transportation network, including the funicular, costs 6.40 euros for adults.

NATIONAL PANTHEON (Panteao Nacional)

In the heart of Lisbon old town, the national pantheon was originally a church dedicated to St. Engrácia built on the 18th century, this grand monument was repurposed in the 20th century to serve as the final resting place for many notable portuguese personalities, including renowned artists, political leaders, sports people and national heroes.

Like the name says it does look like a Roman classical building, that is absolutely symmetrical and has this incredible beautiful dome. It’s really worth visiting also from the interior. Check out a beautiful photo spot from the pantheon on the street called Travessa do Paraíso.

The National Pantheon in Lisbon is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entry fee for adults is 4 euros, and there are reduced rates available for seniors and students.

PINK STREET (Rua Nova do Carvalho)

The most instagrammable street of Lisbon is the Pink street! Officially called Rua Nova do Carvalho, it has become very popular since it was renewed in the early 2000s, namely with its pedestrian street being painted in pink.

It has a few restaurants and is located very close to Cais do Sodre, so

Have a look to my other Lisbon travel posts and more great destinations around the World ! If you have any questions, do let me know! Enjoy Lisbon!