Top Things to Do in Lisbon, Portugal

Discover the best things to do in Lisbon, from Tram 28 and pastel de nata to Alfama, Belém, viewpoints, jacaranda blooms, Fado, and Sintra.

I visited Portugal in early summer and immediately fell in love with Lisbon. The steep cobblestone streets sloping gently toward the river, the charming old buildings, the iconic yellow vintage trams, and the terracotta rooftops all come together to create a city that feels uniquely beautiful.

I had such wonderful days wandering through Lisbon, admiring breathtaking viewpoints and eating far too many pastel de nata. The city has a relaxed, romantic atmosphere that makes it incredibly easy to fall in love with. Here are the top things to do in Lisbon that I think everyone should experience when visiting this magical city.

Ride the Famous Tram 28

The vintage yellow trams are one of the most iconic symbols of Lisbon, and Tram 28 is by far the most famous route in the city. Riding it feels like stepping back in time. The old wooden interiors, the rattling sound as it climbs steep hills, and the way it squeezes through incredibly narrow streets make the experience unforgettable.

Tram 28 passes through many of Lisbon’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods, including Graça, Alfama, Baixa, Estrela, and Campo de Ourique. Along the route, you’ll see old tiled buildings, charming cafés, tiny balconies covered in laundry, churches, viewpoints, and everyday local life unfolding right outside the windows.

Because it is so popular, Tram 28 can get very crowded during the day, especially in summer. I would recommend taking it early in the morning or later in the evening for a more enjoyable ride. Sitting by the window while the tram slowly climbed Lisbon’s hills was honestly one of my favorite memories from the city.

Eat Pastel de Nata, Lisbon’s Famous Egg Tart

You simply cannot visit Lisbon without trying pastel de nata. These Portuguese egg tarts have a flaky, crispy pastry shell filled with creamy custard that is lightly caramelized on top. Fresh out of the oven with a little cinnamon sprinkled over them, they are absolutely addictive.

Pastel de nata has a fascinating history connected to Lisbon. The original version was created centuries ago by Catholic monks at Jerónimos Monastery in the Belém district. At the time, egg whites were commonly used for starching clothes, leaving behind large amounts of egg yolks. The monks began using those leftover yolks to create pastries and desserts, which eventually led to the creation of the famous tart.

After the monastery closed in the 19th century, the secret recipe was sold to a nearby bakery that later became Pastéis de Belém — the legendary bakery that still serves the original recipe today.

Besides Pastéis de Belém, I also highly recommend:

• Manteigaria – Fábrica de Pastéis de Nata
• Santo António

Pastéis de Belém is the oldest and most famous shop, but personally, I liked Manteigaria the most. The sweetness felt more balanced, the pastry was incredibly crispy, and you can even watch the bakers making the tarts fresh behind the glass counter.

Wander Through Alfama

Alfama is probably the most charming neighborhood in Lisbon. Its narrow alleys, old tiled houses, hidden staircases, and tiny local restaurants make it feel like a maze full of surprises.

Walking through Alfama without a plan was one of the best parts of my trip. Around every corner, I found beautiful viewpoints, colorful laundry hanging from balconies, or small cafés playing traditional Fado music.

Watch the Sunset from Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Miradouro de Santa Luzia is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Lisbon. From here, you can look over the old Alfama district, the sea of terracotta rooftops, and the Tagus River glowing in the distance.

I especially loved coming here in the late afternoon. As the golden sunlight slowly covered the city, Lisbon looked absolutely magical.

Visit Castelo de São Jorge

Perched high above the city, Castelo de São Jorge is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. The castle itself is beautiful and full of history, but the panoramic views from the walls are what make the visit unforgettable.

From up there, you can see Lisbon’s hills, rooftops, river, and famous bridges stretching across the horizon.

Visit Jerónimos Monastery

Jerónimos Monastery is one of the most impressive buildings in Lisbon and a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. The detailed stone carvings, elegant cloisters, and grand halls are stunning to see in person.

The monastery also has a deep connection to Portugal’s Age of Discoveries and is one of the city’s most important historical landmarks.

Visit Belém Tower

Located along the Tagus River, Belém Tower is another famous symbol of Lisbon. The tower once protected the city’s harbor and today remains one of the most photographed places in Portugal.

The whole Belém area is lovely to explore, especially when combined with Jerónimos Monastery and a stop for pastel de nata.

Enjoy the City View from Miradouro da Graça

Lisbon is famous for its viewpoints, and Miradouro da Graça is definitely one of the best. From here, you can admire the city’s rolling hills, red rooftops, churches, and Castelo de São Jorge rising above the skyline.

It is a perfect place to slow down and simply enjoy the beauty of Lisbon.

Visit Basílica da Estrela

Basílica da Estrela is one of the most beautiful churches in Lisbon and a lovely stop if you are exploring the Estrela neighborhood. Its elegant white façade, grand dome, and peaceful interior make it a wonderful place to visit when you want a quieter moment away from the busier tourist areas.

One of the best things about visiting the basilica is climbing up to the rooftop for a beautiful panoramic view over Lisbon. From there, you can admire the city’s rooftops and surrounding hills from a different perspective.

Right across from the basilica is Jardim da Estrela, a charming garden filled with palm trees, fountains, and shaded benches — perfect for relaxing after exploring the church.

Listen to Traditional Fado Music

Fado is Portugal’s traditional music, known for its emotional and melancholic sound. Listening to live Fado in a small restaurant or music house is one of the most authentic experiences you can have in Lisbon.

Even if you do not understand the lyrics, the emotion in the music is incredibly moving.

Take a Day Trip to Sintra

If you have extra time, taking a day trip to Sintra is absolutely worth it. The colorful palaces, romantic gardens, and misty hills make the town feel like something out of a fairytale.

It is easily one of the most beautiful places near Lisbon.

Walk Around Praça do Comércio

Praça do Comércio is one of Lisbon’s grandest squares. Facing the Tagus River, it is a wonderful place for a relaxing walk, especially in the evening when the light becomes softer and the atmosphere calmer.

Try Portuguese Food

Lisbon is a fantastic city for food lovers. Besides pastel de nata, there are many delicious Portuguese dishes worth trying:

• Bacalhau (salt cod)
• Grilled sardines
• Seafood rice
• Bifana sandwiches
• Grilled octopus

Portuguese food feels simple, comforting, and full of flavor.

Walk Along the Tagus River

Walking along the Tagus River is one of the most peaceful things to do in Lisbon. The breeze, open sky, and riverside atmosphere make it especially enjoyable during early summer evenings.

Admire the Purple Jacaranda Flowers in Early Summer

If you visit Lisbon around late May or early June, you may be lucky enough to see the jacaranda trees blooming across the city. Their soft purple flowers cover the streets and squares in dreamy shades of violet, making Lisbon feel even more romantic and beautiful.

Jacaranda trees were introduced to Portugal from South America many years ago and adapted very well to Lisbon’s warm climate. Today, they have become one of the city’s most beloved symbols of late spring and early summer. The trees are planted widely across Lisbon not only because they provide shade during the hot summer months, but also because their blossoms add so much color and charm to the city’s streets.

When the flowers begin to bloom, entire avenues suddenly turn purple, creating one of the prettiest times of the year to visit Lisbon. Some lovely places to see them are Avenida Dom Carlos I, Rossio, Praça do Comércio, and around Eduardo VII Park.

Ride the Santa Justa Lift

The Santa Justa Lift is a historic elevator in the center of Lisbon with a beautiful neo-Gothic design. Besides being an interesting landmark, it also offers a nice view over the city center.

Check Out Pink Street

Pink Street is one of Lisbon’s most colorful and photogenic streets. During the day, it is fun for photos, while at night it becomes lively with bars, restaurants, and music.

Sit at a Café and Watch the City

One of my favorite things in Lisbon was simply sitting at a small café, drinking coffee, and watching daily life pass by. The city has such a calm and charming atmosphere that even ordinary moments feel special.

Buy Azulejo Tiles as Souvenirs

Azulejos, the beautiful ceramic tiles seen all over Portugal, make wonderful souvenirs. Their blue-and-white designs are deeply connected to Portuguese culture and architecture.

Get Lost in the Streets of Lisbon

Honestly, one of the best things to do in Lisbon is simply to wander without a plan. Walk through tiny alleys, climb hidden staircases, stop at random viewpoints, and let the city surprise you.

Lisbon is full of small magical moments that make you fall in love with it little by little.

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