Best Things To See & Do On A City Break In Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is the cosmopolitan capital of Portugal and is a hilly, coastal city with many attractions. Here, visitors can explore the city’s streets with beautiful, pastel-colored buildings in its old quarter. History can also be explored in the city’s many museums while Lisbon’s modern side can be seen in the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge. Moreover, the city is a short distance from beautiful beaches, like Cascais and Estoril. Those enjoying a city break in Lisbon have so much to choose from, but the following are some must-see locations to visit.

Visit Terreiro do Paço in Lisbon

Terreiro do Paço is Lisbon’s largest public square and is one of the most iconic symbols of the city from its rebuilding following the great earthquake of 1755. Visitors can take a pleasant walk along the river, or alternatively, enjoy a beautiful view of the square from a boat trip on the river.

Head up to the Castle of São Jorge and explore Alfama

One of the most iconic places to visit in Portugal’s capital is the Castle of São Jorge, located at the highest point of the city. The surrounding Alfama neighborhood is one of the traditional areas of the city to explore, while the castle is fun to visit and also offers magnificent views over the city and the river.

Ride the Santa Justa Elevator in Lisbon

Located in downtown Lisbon, the Santa Justa elevator takes visitors up to enjoy panoramic views over the older part of the city. Meanwhile, the elevator was designed by Ponsard, who worked under the great master of iron works, Gustave Eiffel more than one hundred years ago.

Ride on the colorful trams of Lisbon

While trams are an everyday transport for residents of the city, they are also one of the best ways to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods. Moreover, they are so photogenic that readers have likely seen photos of them before. While they all take you to great locations, tram no. 28 is the best known for visitors.

Visit the Tower of Belém and Jerónimos Monastery

Lisbon is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are a must on any visitor’s itinerary. Both are beautiful examples of the Gothic Manueline style, and the vaults carved in stone are remarkable pieces of engineering. Moreover, the many decorative elements represent the city’s maritime past, including the fascinating voyages of the Navigators.

National Tile Museum and the Coach Museum in Lisbon

On the subject of tiles and decoration, the National Tile Museum reveals the story of tiles in Portugal from the city’s 16th-century walls to modern times. Meanwhile, the National Coach Museum offers an incredible collection of carriages. Each is intricately decorated with gild work and paintings from the 18th century.

Head to the Oceanarium in the Parque das Nações

The Parque das Nações was an industrial area in the past but has been revived into a beautiful location on the river. Here, the Oceanarium, one of the largest in Europe, is a worthy visit where visitors can learn about the flora and fauna of the world’s oceans.

Dine out in Bairro Alto in Lisbon, Portugal

At the end of a busy day of exploring or shopping in the elegant Chiado district, Bairro Alto is the place to be. This lively part of the city is filled with excellent restaurants and lively nightlife. Whether dining on traditional Portuguese fare or international cuisine, dining out in Lisbon is a delicious experience.

Experience a city break in Lisbon, Portugal this year – you will find yourself returning soon for more.