What to See in Lisbon
These are the essential museums, monuments, bridges, and castles in Lisbon.
20
important places to see
56
best Lisbon museums
8
historic monuments of Lisbon
The top sights and attractions you can't miss on your trip to Lisbon.
Since you want to see the best of Lisbon we focus on the must-sees, starting with those you'll come across simply by walking through the city center and the Lisbon neighborhoods, and then moving on to those a bit farther out so you can decide for yourself.
Tell me how many days you're staying and I'll tell you what to see
There's a lot to see in Lisbon, and knowing how to choose wisely is key to making the most of the Portuguese capital.
- What to see in a weekend of 1 to 2 days: if you're only here for a few days, explore the city center and Belém.
- What to see in 3 or 4 days in Lisbon: if you have more time, try to visit the Expo area (Parque das Nações), Sintra and Cascais.
- What to see in 5 to 7 days in Lisbon: in addition to the above, if you still have time to spare: head to Óbidos and other nearby places like Fátima or even visiting Porto is usually a great idea.
Lisbon's must-see places
Make the most of your trip by discovering the best of Lisbon
Praça do Comércio
Lisbon's most iconic square, with cafés, restaurants, a Lisbon tourist office, a museum about the city's history, and a waterfront promenade along the Tagus.
Get to know it in depth with some of these free tours in Lisbon.
Santa Justa Lift
A lift inaugurated in 1902 to connect the Baixa with its neighbor Chiado. It leaves no visitor indifferent.
Free access with the Lisboa Card.
São Jorge Castle
Crowning the city center stands Lisbon's castle: Castelo de São Jorge. A witness to invasions and conquests since the 1st century BC.
Alfama
You can't leave Lisbon without getting lost in the streets of its most traditional neighborhood: Alfama. Here you'll find tascas with fado, traditional windows, and the soul of the city.
Explore Alfama in depth with this tour.
Listening to fado in Lisbon
From small taverns to elegant fado houses: discover the best places to listen to fado in Lisbon.
Lisbon Cathedral
Lisbon Cathedral (known as "Sé" to locals) has survived great disasters such as the oft-mentioned 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Its cloister preserves Roman, medieval, and Moorish remains.
Jerónimos Monastery
One of the most beautiful monuments in all of Portugal. It stands out for its architecture, its history, and the neighborhood it sits in. One of Lisbon's must-see places.
Belém Tower
Built in 1515, the Torre de Belém was a fortress that protected the entrance to Lisbon's harbor. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you can admire it from the outside as well as explore its interior.
Lisbon Oceanarium
The Lisbon Oceanarium is much more than an aquarium. It is divided into four marine habitats home to more than 8,000 species. A must-visit for young and old alike. So much to see!
Lisbon's Viewpoints
Lisbon's viewpoints are an undisputed part of the city's heritage. We want our travelers to arrive with these spots on their radar and not miss them. Essential sights in Lisbon.
Monument to the Discoveries
Its 50-meter-tall facade features the key figures of the Age of Discovery, gazing out toward the river before setting sail on their voyages, just as they once did.
Usually cheaper with this card.
National Pantheon
The final resting place of celebrated Portuguese figures such as writer Almeida Garrett and fado singer Amália Rodrigues. From the top of the building you have sweeping views of Alfama and the river.
Convento do Carmo, Gothic ruins
The Carmo Archaeological Museum encompasses the remains of the former Convento do Carmo, devastated by the Lisbon earthquake. It also houses a collection of archaeological artifacts and mummies.
20% discount with the Lisboa Card
Chiado, Lisbon's chicest neighborhood
The elegant and lively neighborhood of Chiado is one of Lisbon's most special corners. You'll likely wander through it even without planning to, but just in case, make sure it's on your list.
The Tram
Lisbon's vintage trams still carry passengers through the city's most traditional neighborhoods. Hop on for a ride or simply watch as they wind their way through the streets of Lisbon.
Pastéis de Belém
Yes, we know this isn't a monument. It didn't end up on the list by accident. Pastéis de Belém are a national treasure. Head to the neighborhood of Belém on a pilgrimage to try them, fresh from the oven and perfectly crisp.