My Lisbon Top 10

Note: This post was originally published in 2018 and has been fully updated for 2026 to include current travel tips and pricing!

This may be the most anticipated post I have written in quite some time! I am so excited that so many of my friends, coworkers, and followers are planning a trip to Portugal soon. It is such a gorgeous place and you are going to have a phenomenal time. During the three days my Mom and I spent in the city, we explored so many amazing neighborhoods, attractions, and restaurants. If you are wondering what to do in Lisbon, I have narrowed it down to my top 10 highlights so you can follow suit!

The only thing I did not do that people rave about was the Lisbon Oceanarium. While I am sure it is an incredible aquarium, when I visit a new city I want to see the local history and culture. From my three days exploring, here is my Lisbon top 10:

1. Best Views: Alfama & Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Alfama is a gorgeous neighborhood where you can find the most famous yellow tram in all of Lisbon, Tram 28. The view from under the fir trees at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is spectacular. Of the many scenic lookouts (miradouros) we visited, this was definitely my favorite.

2026 Update: For Tram 28 it is now more crowded than ever. I suggest taking it from the Martim Moniz terminal early in the morning (before 9:00 AM) to actually get a seat, otherwise, they’ll be standing “sardine-style.”

2. Take a Lisbon Walking Tour

In nearly every city I visit, I try a walking tour. The SANDEMANs NEW Lisbon Tours are excellent. You can’t beat the “tips-based” price, and it’s the perfect way to learn the history—everything from the Great Earthquake of 1755 to the Portuguese Inquisition—while walking through Bairro Alto and Rossio Square.

3. Visit the Belém Tower & Discoveries Monument

These epic marble monuments are only a few minutes apart but are located a bit outside the city center. A quick 10-12 Euro Uber or Bolt ride will get you there, or you can take the local tram (E15) for a more affordable option. If you visit in the morning, the sun casts a magical light on the white marble. The Belém Tower is a landmark medieval defensive tower, while the Padrão dos Descobrimentos celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery.

2026 Update: In 2018, you could just show up. In 2026, it is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance. Mention that the queues for the interior can be 1–2 hours long, so seeing it from the outside (as you did) is still a valid “hack.”

4. Grab a Bite at Pastéis de Belém

You MUST pay a visit to this legendary bakery known for its tarts and breads. It has been around since 1837 for a reason! My mom and I both had the famed pastel de nata, a custard tart sprinkled with cinnamon. Pro tip: Don’t let the line outside scare you; the interior is massive and usually has plenty of seating!

5. Explore the Santa Justa Elevator (Carmo Lift)

While this Neo-Gothic iron lift is iconic, the lines can exceed an hour and a tourist ticket now costs about €6. Instead, I recommend the “back way.” Access the top viewing platform from Largo do Carmo in Bairro Alto. You can pay a small fee (around €1.50) just to go up the spiral staircase for the view without waiting for the elevator. While there, visit the Carmo Convent ruins—they are breathtaking.

6. Stop by Praça do Comércio

The main shopping area of historic downtown Lisbon ends at this grand riverside plaza. With its yellow buildings, the Arco da Rua Augusta, and views of the Tagus River, it is the true hub of the city and a great central meeting place.

7. Go on a Portuguese Food Tour

To truly experience Portuguese cuisine, I highly recommend a food tour. We took the Old Town tour with Lazy Flavors. We spent four hours tasting traditional pastries, unique cured meats, the famous bifana sandwich, codfish fritters, and a glass of Ginjinha (cherry liqueur). It’s an adventure for your taste buds!

8. Take a Day Trip to Sintra

Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site only 40 minutes from Lisbon via the Rossio train station. The number of palaces tucked into these hills is staggering. While we went inside the colorful Pena Palace, I recommend spending a full day here to see the Quinta da Regaleira and the Castle of the Moors as well.

2026 Update: The Pena Palace now uses timed entry slots. You can’t just wander in anymore; you must book a specific time online, or you won’t get in.

9. Visit São Jorge Castle (St. George’s Castle)

This Moorish castle sits on one of the highest hills in Lisbon. Dating back to the 7th century BC, it offers incredible history and 360-degree views of the city. Be sure to check the official website for current tour times and keep an eye out for the wild peacocks that roam the grounds!

10. Fuel Up at Fabrica Coffee Roasters

For the best coffee in town, head to Fabrica Coffee Roasters. Their avocado toast with a poached egg is next-level divine and the perfect way to start a day of hill-climbing in Lisbon. It’s a local favorite and remains one of the highest-rated spots in the city.

2026 Update: Fabrica Coffee Roasters has expanded! They now have five locations in Lisbon (including a popular one in Baixa and one near Avenida da Liberdade). You might want to mention that there are now multiple spots to find their “next level” coffee.

One note, while card acceptance is much better now than in 2018, many traditional tascas (local restaurants) in Alfama are still cash-only. I’d advise anyone visiting Lisbon to keep €20–€40 on them just in case.

2026 Update:: For the Lisboa Card the prices are roughly €23 (24h), €37 (48h), or €46 (72h). It now covers 39+ attractions, including the Santa Justa Lift and Tram 28.

There you have it—my updated top 10 list for Lisbon! Enjoy your trip to Portugal!