Lisbon, Portugal is a city that I feel most young adults gloss over when they think about traveling to Europe, when they shouldn't! Lisbon has so much to offer in its labyrinth of streets: some of the very BEST seafood, deep history and wine culture, friendly locals, and a buzzing nightlife! My first trip there has not only made me more excited to come back, but has also inspired me to visit more of the country. For this travel guide, I'll give you all the insight on great spots to enjoy delicious food and cocktails, fun things to do (including two day trips!), and important things to know when traveling to and through Portugal.
Table of Contents
Travel Advisory: Portugal no longer requires a passenger locator form, or proof of vaccination/PCR test for entry into the country.
How long should I stay?
I think this all depends on you and/or your travel group. I stayed in Lisbon for a total of 5 days, and honestly felt like I needed around 7-10 days to do and see everything I wanted. If you only plan to visit Lisbon, I'd say 5-7 days is a great amount of time to see a lot without being rushed.
What To Pack (Besides the Basics)
Passport
Vaccination Card
NEGATIVE Covid 19 Antigen or PCR test result (Print or digital)
Comfortable walking shoes! (The hills there are killer)
Compression socks (these are great to put on to keep good circulation in your legs during long flights)
Sunglasses
Portable charger
Adaptor (for your electrical devices if you are not someone who lives in the UK/EU)
Cash/Credit/Debit (be mindful that there are some establishments that only accept cash)
For the time of year I visited, mid-late October, a light jacket or cardigan is suggested
Sunscreen
Where To Stay
The name of the listing fits the apartment well; it's definitely a charming place to enjoy your stay in Lisbon, and the different views from the kitchen and bedroom windows are dreamy. In particular, this space was perfect for my large group of 6 to stay and sleep comfortably. The apartment itself feels very much like a home, and has 5 different rooms that could easily fit up to 8 people. It also has all the necessary amenities like wifi and bath towels that you'd need for a comfortable stay. The host, Rex, is very friendly and responded quickly to any questions we had about the apartment or anything Lisbon related. I will note that the apartment does not have air conditioning, which could be an issue for some during the summer months, and there is a strict 10PM curfew for loud noises/music, since the apartment is in a quieter residential area. Otherwise, I would have no issue staying here again.
Transportation in Lisbon
There are lots of inexpensive options when it comes to getting around in Lisbon, including taking in the sights on foot. Just be aware that should you decide to walk often, I recommend investing in comfortable walking shoes, because the hills in Lisbon are abundant and will take out even the most active travelers. If walking isn't your thing, thats fine! There's plenty more ways to get around.
Metro
Lisbon's metro system is one of the best ways to get around and is fairly easy to navigate, with only 4 separate train lines (blue, yellow, green, and red) that will take you to and from either end of the city. The metro even includes a stop that is right next to the international airport! To travel on the metro, you'll have to purchase a Viva Viagem card (0,50 euros) that you'll then top up with your desired amount and scan at the entrances/exits of metro stations.
Train
Trains can also be used to get around the city, but are best used for trips further out to surrounding cities and even other countries, like Spain. In particular, Portugal's high-speed Alfa Pendular train will connect you to every major city in the country, from Braga in the north all the way down to Faro in the deep south. There are also the Regional and Intercidades trains that make more frequent stops in more centralized areas. Check here for more information on the different trains, train routes, and ticket costs.
Bus
Lisbon's buses are operated by Carris, which is the same operator for the trams and elevators. The buses run from around 5am-1am and individual tickets are about 2 euros one way that can be paid with the viva viagem card.
Tram
If it's one thing that Lisbon is famous for, its their bright-yellow trams that move throughout the city. In particular, Tram 28 is a great way to get around the city while also catching beautiful views along the way. You can easily catch a ride at one of the many tram stops, hop on, and pay by scanning your Viva viagem metro card. Note that because of its popularity, the tram is usually pretty packed throughout the day. Rides on the tram cost about 3 euros one way.
Uber
Normally I suggest those traveling in Europe not to use Uber, since it tends to be much more expensive than traveling via train or metro, but Uber is surprisingly inexpensive in Lisbon! It's another sound option, especially if you're traveling in a big group and don't want to drag your suitcases to and from the airport.
Currency
Portugal is a part of the European Union, so their official currency is the Euro. The euro is currently stronger than the US dollar, but exchange rates change quickly, so be sure to check rates before your trip! Although Lisbon is mostly a debit/credit city, there are some places that will only accept cash, so be sure to exchange some money before your trip or find a local ATM in the city.
Things to do in Lisbon
Eat Famous Pastries in Belem
Belem is a great stop to make for a half-day trip, as there are a few well-known monuments to visit, such as the Belem Tower and Monument of the Discoveries, but is also home to the most famous pastry spot in Portugal! Started in 1837, Pastèis de Belèm has been the home to Portugal's famous Pastèis de Nata, a custard-filled puff pastry that is made fresh daily by hand. Make sure to get here early, as the lines can get pretty long. The shorter line is for those taking pastries to go, and don't forget to try this tasty treat with cinnamon on top!
Enjoy Beach Vibes in Cascais
Cascais is a small but charming beach town only 25 minutes away from the center of Lisbon. It's a great spot to take in relaxing beach views while also getting to enjoy some history as well. There are a number of museums and parks available to enjoy, but one of the best things to do here is to just wander around the cobblestone streets and enjoy the scenery.
Visit the Alfama District
Lisbon's Alfama District is actually one that I suggest everyone make sure they visit. All of Lisbon is filled with history, but this District in particular holds many of its hundreds of years old remnants for both tourists and residents to take in at face value. Not only can you visit important historical monuments such as São Jorge Castle, but you can also experience amazing city views from one of the most well known overlooks, Miradouro de Santa Luzia. Don't forget to walk through the renowned cobblestone alleyways to discover things like Portugal's famous codfish pastry, Pastéis de Bacalhau.
Take a Day Trip to Sintra
Taking a day trip to Sintra is a MUST DO while visiting Portugal, as it hosts some of the most beautiful castles, gardens, and historical sites I've seen in my travels. The city centre of Sintra itself is full of quaint charm; it's a place that you could easily spend the day strolling around or enjoying delicious food and wine in. Sintra is only a quick 30 minute train ride away from Lisbon, and is most famous for being home to sites such as Pena Palace (pictured above), The Moorish Castle, and The Palace of Monserrate. You can see all of these sites and more in a day using hop-on hop-off bus tours, or take to exploring on your own. My tips? Start your day early, as there is so much to see! Bring comfortable walking shoes, and for Pena Palace, I suggest buying entry to both the inside and outside of the grounds, as they are equally beautiful and should both be experienced. Entry to the outside of the castle as well as the inside is only 14 euros.
Ride Tram 28
As mentioned before, Lisbon has many forms of public transportation, and the yellow tram is the most famous. Although it can be seen as a tourist trap, and can get pretty crowded on the day-to-day, it's still a great experience that I think everyone should do at least once. It's a great way to see the city and experience something new!
Walk Down Pink Street! (And the lesser known Green Street)
Pink Street is a relatively well-known area to influencers and instagrammers alike for a photo op, as it is literally as its named, a bright pink street in the heart of Lisbon! It's lined with different cafes, restaurants, and bars for you to enjoy and explore, but I'd also like to point out its lesser known cousin, Green Street. Rua da Silva does not tout a green-painted road, but instead is a street lined with lush greenery and bright red lanterns that hang above tucked-away restaurants and cafes. It's also a great place to visit at night!
Experience a Private Boat Ride With Food & Wine Tasting Included!
This sailing experience through Oh My Cod Tours is a great way to learn about the culture and history of Lisbon in a multitude of ways. Not only will you get to experience the beauty of Lisbon's multiple landscapes and historical monuments while on the water, you will also learn a great deal about Portuguese cuisine and wine through a unique dish tasting created by a local chef, paired with a cocktail made from a sweet Port wine. Silvia, our guide, is born and raised in Lisbon, and has a great love of sharing her culture through history and food. This is such a relaxing, eye-opening experience that is perfect for a small group, and I recommend everyone to try this out.
Party in Bairro Alto
Lisbon has an unsurprisingly full and bustling night life, as many of its citizens tend to even eat dinner late at night, around 10pm. Bairro Alto is a street nestled right in the city's main center, and has a little bit of everything in terms of clubs and bars. If you're looking for a turn up, this is the place to be!
Enjoy Port Wine During a Day Trip to Douro Valley
When I think back on my trip to Portugal, this Douro Valley visit was definitely the highlight. This tour starts in the city of Porto, a wonderfully picturesque place that's about a 3-4 hour train ride from Lisbon. I actually advise you to spend a full day or two in Porto to get the full experience, as I was only able to enjoy some short views as we drove through to get to Douro Valley. Douro Valley is home to Portugal's famous Port wine, which is known to be both very strong and very sweet. It takes about an hour drive from the city of Porto to get there, and with Airbnb Experiences I booked the Douro Valley Winery Visit and Tasting with Josè. This was such an AMAZING experience, from Josè's hospitality (when he picked my group and I up from the train station, he had fresh Pasteis de Nata waiting for us), to the absolutely breathtaking views of the vineyard-lined valleys from our vehicle and from a short river boat tour. We also enjoyed a fantastic meal at a local restaurant, visited one of the smaller-owned wineries, and got more than enough tastings of the wine offered in the valley. This experience is a must do, especially if you love wine!
Where to Eat & Drink
