With so many things to see and explore, it is hard to make a list of the top 10 things to do in Lisbon. However, here is my best effort at compiling the best sightseeing opportunities in the Portuguese capital:
10. Visit the Lisbon Botanical Garden and explore its wide variety of plants from all over the world.
9. Eat some traditional Portuguese pastries like the famous pasteis de nata at Pastelaria Versailles in Lisbon’s Saldanha neighborhood. Don’t forget to admire the beautiful interior while you’re there.
8. Ride Tram 28 across Lisbon. The tram is a quintessential experience, and is a must on anyone’s list of the top 10 things to do in Lisbon.
7. See a Fado show in Lisbon’s historic Alfama district. The Alfama is the birthplace of this historic Portuguese art form, and hosts some of the best fado shows in town.
6. Visit the Torre de Belem on Lisbon’s western outskirts. The tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a great example of Portuguese Manueline architecture.
5. Have a picnic in Praca do Principe Real with great food and wine from Charcuteria Moy Garrafeira. If you don’t have time for a picnic, pick out some gourmet goodies to take home with you.
4. Experience the nightlife in Barrio Alto. The neighborhood is home to Lisbon’s most famous bars and clubs, and is known for its party scene.
3. Take a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra. Just 40 minutes away by train, the magical town is home to castles, monasteries, and more.
2. Visit the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos. Located a short walk away from the Torre de Belem (see number 6), the Mosterio dos Jeronimos is not only a stunning church, but also the resting place of Vasco da Gama, the famous Portuguese explorer.
1. Visit the Castelo de Sao Jorge at sunset. The castle has stunning views over the city at all hours of the day, but watching the sunset from the ramparts is a must on anyone’s list of the top 10 things to do in Lisbon.