Exploring Lisbon: A Guide to the City’s Best Spots, Attractions, and Hidden Gems

29th September 2025

By Zehra Arslan Ceylan

We sent the lovely Zehra Arslan Ceylan, Türkish photographer and traveller who joined us for 2 months this summer, out and around in Lisbon. Here are her top picks and recommendations!

Touring Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is an enchanting city filled with history, culture, breathtaking views, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or just someone looking for a relaxing getaway, Lisbon offers something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you explore the city's top landmarks, hidden gems, and where to stay without breaking the bank.

Must-See Places in Lisbon: Landmarks & Attractions

Lisbon is home to several iconic attractions that make it a unique and vibrant destination:

  • Belem Tower (Torre de Belém): A symbol of Portugal’s Age of Exploration, this 16th-century tower sits on the banks of the Tagus River. It offers a glimpse into Lisbon’s rich maritime history.
  • Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos): Another UNESCO World Heritage site, this monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, and it houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama.
  • Alfama District: This is Lisbon's oldest neighborhood, where you'll find narrow alleys, traditional Fado music, and stunning views. Stroll through Alfama and discover its charm.
  • Praça do Comércio: This grand square, located near the river, is one of the most iconic places in Lisbon. Surrounded by classical buildings, it’s perfect for a leisurely walk or enjoying a coffee at one of the many cafés.

Famous Desserts in Lisbon: Sweet Delights

Lisbon is a city that’s as famous for its desserts as it is for its historic landmarks.
Here are some must-try treats:

  • Pastéis de Nata: These iconic custard tarts are a must-try. You can find them all over Lisbon, but the best place to taste them is at Pastéis de Belém, which has been making these pastries since 1837.
  • Travesseiros: A puff pastry filled with almond cream, this dessert is famous in Lisbon and particularly in the town of Sintra, just a short train ride away.
  • Bola de Berlim: Lisbon’s take on a doughnut, typically filled with creamy custard or jam, and dusted with sugar. You’ll find it sold by street vendors around the city.

Iconic Lisbon Landmarks: The Santa Justa Lift & More

Lisbon’s charming hills and steep streets offer plenty of opportunities for breathtaking views, and two of the most iconic ways to explore them are:

  • Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa): Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, this unique vertical lift connects the Baixa neighborhood to the higher Carmo Square. Ride it for panoramic views of Lisbon, including a view of the Castle of São Jorge.
  • The 28 Tram: The famous number 28 tram is a fun way to explore Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods. This vintage yellow tram takes you through the Alfama district, Graça, and Baixa, offering a scenic tour of Lisbon’s most charming streets.
  • The Christ the King Monument is one of the most iconic landmarks in Lisbon. Standing 28 meters tall, this towering statue of Christ overlooks the city and provides one of the best panoramic views of Lisbon, especially across the Tagus River. You can reach the Cristo Rei monument by crossing the April 25th Bridge (similar to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco) and taking a bus or taxi to the site.

The Best Beaches in Lisbon: Sun, Sea, and Sand

While Lisbon is more famous for its historic charm than its beaches, there are still plenty of beautiful coastal escapes nearby:

  • Cascais: A charming coastal town just 30 minutes from Lisbon, known for its sandy beaches and the picturesque marina. It's perfect for a relaxing day trip from the city.
  • Carcavelos Beach: One of the most popular beaches among locals, it’s great for sunbathing, surfing, and swimming.
  • Costa da Caparica: Located across the river from the city, this beach is a bit more remote and perfect for those looking for a peaceful place to relax away from the crowds.

Where to Find the Best Views in Lisbon

Lisbon is known for its panoramic vistas, and there are several spots around the city that offer some of the best views:

  • Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: Located in the Graça district, this viewpoint offers one of the most spectacular views over the city, including the Tagus River, the Castle of São Jorge, and the Baixa district.
  • Miradouro de Santa Catarina: This is another excellent viewpoint, especially at sunset. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, with stunning views over the river and the city.
  • Miradouro das Portas do Sol: Located in the Alfama district, this spot offers panoramic views of the red rooftops and the blue waters of the Tagus River.

Museums to Visit in Lisbon

Lisbon boasts a rich cultural heritage, and its museums are perfect for art and history lovers:

  • Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga (National Museum of Ancient Art): One of the most important art museums in Portugal, showcasing a vast collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
  • Museu Calouste Gulbenkian: An incredible museum housing one of the most important collections of art in Europe, ranging from Egyptian artifacts to European paintings and sculptures.
  • MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology): A futuristic museum located by the river, MAAT is a perfect blend of art, architecture, and modern technology.
  • Museu do Fado: Located in the Alfama district, this museum is dedicated to Fado, the traditional Portuguese music genre that originated in Lisbon.

A number of great museums in Lisbon are have free entry on certain days of the month:

  • Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea (Chiado Museum) in Lisbon: Free entry on Sundays and public holidays.
  • Museu Calouste Gulbenkian in Lisbon: Free on Sundays from 10 AM to 2 PM.
  • Museu do Fado in Lisbon: Free on the first Sunday of every month.
  • Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia (MAAT) in Lisbon: Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.
  • Museu Nacional de Arqueologia in Lisbon: Free on Sundays before 2 PM.

Conclusion: Lisbon Awaits You

Lisbon is a city full of history, culture, and charm, and it's a place where you can easily fall in love with every corner you explore. Whether you’re hopping on the iconic tram 28, tasting a warm pastel de nata, or soaking in the views from one of Lisbon’s many miradouros (viewpoints), you’ll undoubtedly create unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure in one of Europe's most captivating cities!