The capital of Portugal, Lisbon, has developed into a tourist destination remarkably fast compared with other European cities. A visit brings you face to face with fascinating ancient history, architecture, tradition and modernity, reasonable prices and friendly locals. For visitors who want to focus, we’ve rounded up the very best attractions in Lisbon.
Some travelers hesitate to visit a destination’s main attractions because they’re crowded with tourists, and sometimes because they want to be “different”. We’re here to tell you that main attractions become main attractions because they’re worth visiting and unique, and sometimes the wisdom of the crowd is right. Despite the possible crowds or the feeling of doing what everyone does, they’re definitely worth it.
Belém
This district lies on the bank of the Tagus River and is home to several of the most interesting sites, both visually and historically. They’re all about one of the most glorious periods in Portugal’s history, the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries.
- Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) – the tower is the area’s best-known landmark. It was built in the river and served as a landmark for Portuguese sailors. Today it stands on the north bank, because the riverbank has shifted over the years. The structure includes a tower and a kind of small bastion (it was part of Portugal’s chain of fortifications), and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s an entry fee (and a line to get in during high season).
- Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) – a monument honoring the expedition leaders and explorers of Portugal’s maritime golden age. It depicts Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, Henry the Navigator (who was responsible for many expeditions and was the driving force behind the age of voyages) and others.
- Jerónimos Monastery and Church (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) – a huge monastery built in the Manueline style (named after King Manuel I of Portugal, who loved this style), full of maritime symbols marking Portugal’s power at sea. The monastery was built right next to the church, so the building actually has two parts. You can visit both the monastery and the church, and it’s well worth it.
Baixa
A central Lisbon neighborhood home to some of the city’s most popular and interesting sites. Its advantage over other neighborhoods is that it’s on flat ground and very easy to walk.
- Rossio Square – a central square and landmark in the heart of the city, with a statue of King Pedro IV, a decorated pavement and the National Theater.
- Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa) – a lookout tower with two levels offering a wide view of the city. The structure and the lift are reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower, and no wonder: its designer is often described as a disciple of Gustave Eiffel. Oh, and expect a line here too, especially in high season.
- Ribeira Market, or Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira) – markets are always a hit with travelers who love a market experience. This one has a traditional section with stalls of fruit, vegetables and other produce, but its highlight is the food hall, with food and dessert stalls from all over the world.
- Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio) – next to the Tagus River, it has been a focal point of Lisbon life over the years. This is where most of the trading took place, and where demonstrations and gatherings of all kinds are held. The square is known for its triumphal arch, the Rua Augusta Arch (Arco da Rua Augusta), and for the equestrian statue of King José I.
- The Jewish memorial – in Largo de São Domingos stands a memorial to the massacre of the city’s Jews in the early 16th century (1506). Next to it is the Wall of Tolerance, with the words “Lisbon, city of tolerance” written in dozens of languages.
São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge)
The castle stands on the highest hill in Lisbon, in the Alfama district. It dates from the time of the Muslim Moors who conquered the region. The site has always been strategic, and the Romans were the first to establish a foothold here, but it was the Moors who built this large, impressive fortress. The castle is surrounded by fascinating history and stories of wars and conquests.
Lisbon Oceanarium
One of the largest aquariums in the world, showcasing marine life with mammals and sea creatures from all over the world. A great place for travelers in Lisbon with kids and without them.
The Lisbon Oceanarium (Oceanário de Lisboa) is considered by many tourists to be Lisbon’s number one attraction, and it has ranked first on TripAdvisor among more than 500 attractions in the city.
Click here to book tickets for the Lisbon Oceanarium
Bairro Alto, the Nightlife District
A few streets in Bairro Alto are home to a huge number of bars that make up the center of Lisbon’s nightlife. The Portuguese custom is to “party” all night and hop between several bars. Beyond the relatively cheap drinks, the vibe in the streets is joyful and free, and it’s contagious.
Along the way, in this district you’ll also find a viewpoint garden called São Pedro de Alcântara, with a lovely view over several parts of Lisbon (including São Jorge Castle, which we mentioned earlier).
Didn’t Make the Cut
Lisbon has many more attractions, like a cable car over the city, a tram ride, the original pastel de nata bakery, the Christ the King statue, the Vasco da Gama Bridge and more. So there’s definitely a reason to come back for a second and third visit.