It’s easy to see why Lisbon is so popular because of its variety of interesting attractions, including museums, monasteries, and castles. By arriving early, we were able to explore each attraction at our own pace and in full detail providing deeper appreciation to each sights we saw. Here are my picks for places to see.
Jeronimos Monestary
This is a must-see attraction in Belém. The monastery is incredibly photogenic with its Gothic architecture, sharp towers, and intricate motifs. It consists of two floors that you can walk through. There’s also a confession room near the bathroom where you can feel the size of the room.
The Belém Tower and this site were both designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1983.
By restricting the number of people allowed inside, I was able to really appreciate the monastery’s beauty. Having said that, I recommend coming here first thing in the morning when they open and buying your tickets ahead of time since the place is very touristy and crowded.
Address: Praça do Império 1400-206
Tickets: Adults €10
Torre de Belém
Around 1514, the tower was built as a defense against foreign invasions. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it served as a fortress and port for the city. Several blocks away from the Jeronismos Monestary is the Padrao dos Descobirmentos Monument. In one day, we visited all three sites. Unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to explore the tower inside.
Address: Av. Brasília, 1400-038
Tickets: Adults €6
Pradrão dos Descobrimentos Monument
The monument commemorates Portugal’s age of discovery. You can also climb to the observation deck of the monument or sit on the stairs in front of the monument and take a break. From here, you can walk towards the Belem Tower along the Tagus River and enjoy the view.
Address: Av. Brasília, 1400-038
Tickets: Adults €6
Carmo Archaeological Museum
A former catholic convent with beautiful arches as you enter the museum. From the arches, tombs to the interesting artifacts this was my favorite museum in Lisbon.
Address: Largo do Carmo, 1200-092
Tickets: Adults €5
Santa Justa Lift (a.k.a Carmo Lift)
One of Lisbon’s unmissable attractions, the Santa Justa Lift is a neo-gothic elevator located in Lisbon’s historic center. It stands tall at 147 feet, serving as a viewing platform offering views of Baixa neighborhood.
In order to avoid waiting and paying for the lift like we did, you can take an elevator inside a jewelry store (sorry, I can’t remember the name of the store) located behind the lift. It will take you to the same observation deck for free.
Address: R. do Ouro, 1150-060
Tickets: Adults €5
Castelo de S. Jorge
The castle hill was inhabited during the 8th century B.C., and the first fortifications were built in the 1st century B.C. I liked the castle as it offers spectacular views of the Tagus River and Alfama district. As you walk around the castle grounds, you might see peacocks, so don’t be alarmed.
Address: R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129
Tickets: Adults €10
Miradouro de Santa Luzia
This is my favorite miradouro in Lisbon because of its gorgeous sunset views, semi-hidden coffee shop, lovely garden and nearby restaurants. It’s also a convenient place to stop on your way to or from Castelo de S. Jorge. You can also catch musicians sometimes perform here, adding a romantic atmosphere.
Address: Largo Santa Luzia, 1100-487
Prasa Du Comercio
This is the main entrance to the city facing the Tagus River to the south. Tour buses, taxis, regular buses, and trams pass through here frequently. There are also restaurants around the plaza and it is walking distance to the pier.
Address: Relox 18, Zona Centro, 37700
Miraduoro Das Portas do Sol
Located in the Alfama neighborhood, this miraduoro provides a scenic and very popular viewpoint. The red roofs of the buildings here provide a beautiful view of the area. Take in the sunset while having a drink nearby.
Address: Calz de La Aurora S/N, Aurora
Time Out Market
Feeling hungry? Visit the Time Out Market food hall. A variety of regional specialties are available at 36 restaurants and kiosks, including custard tarts, grilled fish, and wine. This restaurant is ideal for any taste buds.
Address: Av. 24 de Julho 49, 1200-479
Other worthy places to see in Lisbon
Pink Street: Originally a red light district, this pink street comes alive at night. Here you’ll find bars and nightclubs that attract partygoers.
Address: R. Nova do Carvalho
Rossio Square
One of the main squares since the Middle Ages. It once served as a place for celebrations, revolts, bullfights and executions but, is now a meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
Address: Praça Dom Pedro IV
Avenida da Liberdadez: The most expensive shopping street in Portugal and known for its prestigious addresses. It is 90m wide and 1100m long.
Address: Avenida da Liberdadez
National Tile Museum: An art museum with ceramic tile and azulejo collections.
Address: R. Me. Deus 4, 1900-312
Oceanario de Lisboa: The largest indoor aquarium in Europe that served as the grounds for the 1998 Expo.
Address: Esplanada Dom Carlos I s/nº, 1990-005
Explore Portugal in October: A Guide to the Best Places, Food, and Weather
Drawn by its mild climate, easy-going culture, and abundance of UNESCO sites, Portugal has been on our bucket list for a long time. My boyfriend and I were intrigued to make a trip there after several members of my family had already visited and had such positive things to say about it.
Places to Eat in Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is a foodie’s paradise. The number of restaurants and cafes in this city is so huge that I feel like I’ve only scratched the surface. I’ve listed the ones we tried below as well as a few others that we didn’t get to go to, but I think might be worth a trip.
A Stint Abroad 