Lisbon & Surroundings

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Europe, stands as a crossroads of history, culture, and Atlantic identity. With over 3,000 years of recorded history, the city has been shaped by Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, and the Age of Discoveries, which launched Portuguese navigators across the globe. This layered past is still visible in its architecture, urban layout, and cultural traditions.

Perched along the banks of the Tagus River, Lisbon is characterized by its steep hills, tiled façades, terracotta rooftops, and a rhythm of life that blends southern European charm with Atlantic pragmatism. Despite a rapid evolution over the last two decades — with rising tourism, urban regeneration, and a booming tech scene — Lisbon has managed to retain its authenticity and human scale.

The city is divided into diverse districts, each with its own atmosphere: Alfama and Mouraria preserve a medieval feel; Chiado and Baixa pulse with commerce and art; Belém speaks of empire and exploration; and the modern district of Parque das Nações shows Lisbon’s 21st-century face. Public transport is efficient, the pace is unhurried, and the light, often praised by filmmakers and artists is singular.

Lisbon is also a gateway to a variety of landscapes and towns within easy reach. Within less than an hour, visitors can reach the romantic palaces of Sintra, the beaches of Cascais, the wild coast of the Arrábida Natural Park, or the wine region of Setúbal. Each offers a distinct contrast and complements the Lisbon experience without requiring long travel.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore deeper, Lisbon and its surroundings offer a grounded and enriching experience, built not on spectacle, but on substance.

Discovering the essence of Lisbon

Lisbon is a city that has maintained its charm through the centuries. Walking through the streets of Baixa Pombalina, an area rebuilt after the great earthquake of 1755, transports you to a past of great importance for Portugal. The Commerce Square, facing the Tagus River, is a gathering place for locals and tourists, offering an open view and a chance to feel the city’s rhythm.

In the Belém, monuments connected to the Monument of the Discoveries take center stage. The Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, are two must-see historical landmarks that reflect the golden age of Portuguese navigation. This area is not only steeped in history. It’s also where you can taste the famous Belém custard tart, a pastry that has become a symbol of national sweets.

Lisbon’s Neighborhoods and Local Life

Each of Lisbon’s neighborhoods has its own unique character. Alfama, the oldest, retains its medieval structure with narrow streets and traditional houses. Here, Fado, the music that reflects the Portuguese soul, is heard at night in small Fado houses, where songs of longing and nostalgia fill the air. The authenticity of this neighborhood makes visitors feel Lisbon in its purest form.

In contrast, Parque das Nações, a modern area created for Expo 98, showcases a newer side of the city. With contemporary buildings, leisure areas, and the famous Oceanarium, this riverside space offers an interesting contrast to the rest of the city. Here, modern architecture and a sense of open space provide a different environment, ideal for peaceful strolls.

Beaches and Nature near the Capital

To the south of Lisbon, across the 25 de Abril Bridge, lies the Arrábida Natural Park, a protected area known for its limestone cliffs, secluded beaches, and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. The nearby towns of Sesimbra and Setúbal are popular for their fresh seafood, scenic coastlines, and laid-back atmosphere, offering a quieter, more local alternative to the capital.

Lisbon is not defined by its urban landscape alone. Just a short distance from the city, a series of coastal towns provide an ideal escape for those seeking sea, sun, and a slower pace of life. Cascais and Estoril, once holiday resorts for European royalty, are now sought-after destinations for their beaches, seaside restaurants, and relaxed atmosphere. These locations combine tradition with modern comfort, providing a peaceful experience by the sea.

For the more adventurous, Guincho Beach is a top destination for surfers and windsurfers, with its strong waves and surrounding nature. In Sintra, natural beauty is highlighted by historic palaces and estates, with the Pena Palace perched atop the hills and the enigmatic Quinta da Regaleira nestled among gardens. This village, surrounded by greenery and mystery, is one of the most impressive and romantic spots in Portugal.

Nightlife and Culture

Lisbon also stands out for its nightlife, offering much more than the traditional Fado. For those who enjoy music and parties, Cais do Sodré and Bairro Alto are popular meeting spots, with bars and clubs catering to all kinds of crowds. From electronic music to rock and jazz, there’s always something happening in these neighborhoods.

But Lisbon isn’t just about parties. Its cultural scene is rich, with museums and galleries that range from classic to contemporary. The Casa da Música and the Serralves Museum are examples of this, combining the best of modern architecture with a diverse cultural offering.

Activities and Experiences

Among the most authentic cultural experiences is an evening spent listening to Fado, the melancholic, guitar-driven music genre recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Fado houses in Alfama and Bairro Alto, such as Clube de Fado or Mesa de Frades, combine live music with traditional Portuguese cuisine in intimate settings that reflect the music’s emotional depth.

A walk through Lisbon’s streets often becomes a historical and sensory journey. Exploring the city on foot or by tuk-tuk allows visitors to discover hidden viewpoints — called miradouros — that offer striking perspectives over the rooftops and river. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Miradouro de Santa Catarina are among the most appreciated for their sweeping views and relaxed atmosphere. For a classic Lisbon experience, a ride on the vintage Tram 28 provides a scenic route through key districts including Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela. Although often crowded, it remains one of the most direct ways to grasp the topography and charm of the city.

Lisbon’s relationship with the river is part of its identity. Tagus River cruises, particularly at sunset, offer a peaceful escape from the urban landscape and a chance to view landmarks like the 25 de Abril Bridge and the Cristo Rei statue from a different angle. These short boat trips vary from traditional sailboats to modern catamarans and can be booked at the Doca do Bom Sucesso or Cais do Sodré.

Markets and local gastronomy are also central to Lisbon’s cultural fabric. The Time Out Market at Mercado da Ribeira brings together top chefs and regional flavours in a dynamic food hall format, while the Feira da Ladra, held every Tuesday and Saturday in the Campo de Santa Clara, is a traditional flea market where antiques, vintage items, and local crafts can be found. For those seeking more curated experiences, various cooking classes and wine tastings are available, focusing on Portuguese ingredients and heritage.

Lisbon encourages slow discovery. Whether through a walk in Eduardo VII Park, a coffee on a terrace in Praça das Flores, or a guided visit to a museum, the city offers meaningful activities for different interests — without excess or spectacle.

Recommended Restaurants

Lisbon’s culinary scene is diverse and vibrant, with a strong focus on fresh seafood, traditional Portuguese dishes, and innovative dining experiences. Within the city, well-known spots like Cervejaria Ramiro offer classic seafood dishes, while Solar dos Presuntos is celebrated for its hearty regional specialties. For a contemporary take on Portuguese cuisine, Taberna da Rua das Flores and Zé da Mouraria are excellent choices. Those seeking fine dining can visit Belcanto, a two Michelin-starred restaurant by chef José Avillez, known for its creative and refined menus. Don’t forget to sample the famous Pastel de Belém at its original bakery in the Belém district.

Outside Lisbon, the surrounding region also boasts excellent dining options that highlight local produce and coastal flavours. In Cascais, Mar do Inferno is a respected seafood restaurant famous for its fresh fish and traditional preparation. Hífen offers a stylish setting with a menu blending Mediterranean and Portuguese influences. For a more casual meal, Santini is renowned for arguably the best ice cream in the region.

In Setúbal, known for its fishing heritage, O Batareo and Casa Santiago serve fresh grilled fish and seafood dishes like choco frito (fried cuttlefish), a local specialty. Nearby in Sesimbra, A Furna is a popular spot for seafood lovers, with an emphasis on locally caught fish and shellfish served simply but expertly.

For a countryside dining experience near Lisbon, the Solar dos Presuntos group operates Azenhas do Mar, a restaurant perched on the cliffs above the ocean, offering both excellent views and quality Portuguese cuisine. In the Arrábida Natural Park area, Restaurante O Barbas in Portinho da Arrábida is known for its authentic atmosphere and fresh fish dishes.

These options in Lisbon’s surroundings offer visitors a chance to explore regional flavours beyond the city, combining quality, tradition, and a connection to the Atlantic coast.

Festivities

Lisbon Book Fair (May–June): Held in Eduardo VII Park, it attracts publishers and readers from all over the country.

Santo António Festival (June 12–13): The city’s biggest celebration. Parades, grilled sardines, and traditional music fill the streets, especially in Alfama and Graça.

Lisboa Dance Festival, Jazz em Agosto, and the Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival: Important for music and culture lovers.

Christmas and New Year’s: Outdoor concerts and fireworks in Terreiro do Paço.

Useful Tips

Public Transport: Reliable and affordable. Get a Viva Viagem card for metro, buses, and trams. Taxis and ride-share apps are widely available.

Weather: Mild winters and hot summers. Spring and early autumn are ideal for visiting.

Safety: Lisbon is generally safe, but pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas. Stay alert on trams and tourist spots.

Language: Portuguese is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in hospitality venues.