Getting to know Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal. It is located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and water is one of the elements that defines the city. The white buildings, intimate alleyways, and its general charm make the city a popular destination all year-round.
What you can do for free in Lisbon
- Explore the ruins of Convento do Carmo
You will have to climb up a bit to reach the ruins, but it’ll be worth it when you reach the top. The views over Chiado and the Old Town from the nearby aka viewpoint are spectacular. You can also choose to pay a couple of euros and take the Santa Justa Elevator; this is the oldest functional elevator in Lisbon. - Take a free walking tour
Discover the city of Lisbon with a free walking tour! The tours starts from Praça do Comércio, at 10am, in English and Spanish. The three hour tour includes sights such as Bairro Alto, The Great Earthquake of 1755 and The São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint. - Visit the Jardim da Cerca da Graça park
The park Jardim da Cerca da Graça is one of the biggest green areas in Lisbon, and it is located between Graça and Mouraria.
Top spots to visit
- Castelo de São Jorge
The Castelo de Sao Jorge is open 7 days a week and it is the perfect place to go to if you want to know more about Lisbon’s heritage and culture. Visit the Archaeological Site, the Camera Obscura, stroll across the gardens and take a break at the Café do Castelo. - Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga
This amazing art museum’s collection includes paintings, sculpture, metalwork, textiles, furniture, drawings, and other decorative art forms from the Middle Agesto the early 19th century. It is open 10-18 from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays). - Alfama District
The Alfama is the oldest district of Lisbon and it spreads on the slope between the São Jorge Castle and the Tejo river. Visit the area to understand the culture and the lively atmosphere of Lisbon.
Hidden spots to visit
- Casa do Alentejo
You can call Casa do Alentejo a hidden spot in Lisbon, mostly because, from the outside, it wouldn’t necessarily draw your attention. But behind the modest exterior,this former palace proves to be a grand building that you’re free to go inside of, even if you’re not dining at its restaurant. - Jardim do Torel
You will have to climb up a little but to reach this are, but the effort is rewarded with amazing panoramas over terracotta roofs, and views right down into the heart of the city. Here you can also find an esplanade and café, and a few shaded areas, thus making this spot an ideal one for taking a break on a hot day. - Cascata da Fraga da Pena
This 20m high waterfall is located near mountain village Benfeita and it is actually the result of a geological accident. It is indeed one of the most spectacular places of the whole Protected Landscape of Açor Mountain.
Restaurants
Some of the best fine-dining restaurants, with menus mostly based on Mediterranean, European and Portuguese food: Feitoria Restaurant & Wine Bar, Alma, Lisboete Restaurante and Belcanto.
Best local cuisine restaurants include Ha Tapas no Mercado!!!, Versiculo do Faia, Floresta Das Escadinhas and Crisfama.
Spend less money but still on some great food at Estamine Art Food Drink, Jam Club and Sama Sama Crepe and Juice Bar.
Recommended time for visiting
The best season to visit Lisbon is either in late spring or early autumn; there are fewer tourists during this time, but the weather is still perfect. Portugal has warm and mild weather most of the year, except for the long, long, hot summers. July and August are the busiest months on the beaches.
Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Avg. temp. (°C) | 11 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 18 | 21 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 19 | 14 | 12 |