Lisbon Highlights: Ten Things to Do, See, and Experience

Lisbon is known for many things, but most commonly for its hilly streets, vibrant culture, intricate azulejo tiles, and endless neighborhoods to explore. There is no doubt that you can keep busy sightseeing in this ancient city. Like always, this list focuses on free and low-cost activities that won’t hurt your bank account.

Take a Free Walking Tour

Like in any large city, the most affordable way to really learn about it is by taking a free walking tour, also known as a tip-based tour. They serve as a great introduction to the many neighborhoods, landmarks, and historical sites that make up the city. Generally, tip €10–€20 per person based on the guide’s performance, tour length, and your satisfaction.

Stop for a Pastel del Nata

Pastéis de Belém and Manteigaria are often considered two of the best places in Lisbon to try pastel de nata. These iconic egg tart pastries were born in the city and remain a beloved Portuguese staple, usually costing around €1.20 each. At some shops, you can even watch the bakers at work in the dedicated fábrica, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the process. Fresh out of the oven, with their flaky crusts and creamy custard, they’re a treat you simply can’t miss.

Go to a Viewpoint

There are handfuls of incredible viewpoints throughout the city, but Miradouro das Portas do Sol and the Santa Lúzia Viewing Platform are popular ones for good reason. Both capture the orange roofs, winding streets, and blue river from above. 

Alfalfa Neighborhood 

There are many must-visit neighborhoods in Lisbon, but the Old Town should be first on your itinerary. Wind through narrow streets, see laundry drying from balconies, cobbled roads, 

Experience Portuguese-Style Music

Fado shows that include dinner can be pricey (€50-€100 per person), while tickets for a live performance alone typically range from €20 to €30. For a more affordable experience, find a place that offers fado vadio, or open-mic style fado for amateurs. One option is to head to Tasca do Chico in the Bairro Alto neighborhood. This cozy, rustic bar hosts live fado on weekends and gives smaller singers the chance to take the stage on certain weeknights. Pair the music with classic Portuguese bar dishes, and be sure to arrive early—the space fills up quickly.

Tram 28

Riding the tram is very popular for many visitors as they are a symbol of the city. However, keep in mind that the lines during peak season can be very very long, and you may not be guaranteed a seat or much of a view on board as people are standing shoulder to shoulder. A single ride costs €3.10, but that fare is lower with a 7 Colinas card or free with the Lisboa Card. Nonetheless, spotting the tram in action is a unique sight as well, and makes for a great photo op. 

Pink Street

Once Lisbon’s red-light district, this lively area has been transformed into the famous Rua Nova do Carvalho—better known as Pink Street. The road is painted bright pink and lined with fun bars, with colorful umbrellas often hanging overhead. Though it’s only a short pedestrian stretch, it’s one of the city’s trendiest spots for nightlife and photos alike.

Time Out Market 

This bustling market is packed with food stalls and restaurants serving a wide variety of dishes from around the world, alongside beloved Portuguese classics like pastéis de nata, bacalhau (salted cod), bifana (pork sandwich), caldo verde (potato and kale soup), chouriço à bombeiro (flaming chorizo), polvo à lagareiro (octopus), amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (clams), and more. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal without the wait of a sit-down restaurant.

Bica Funicular 

The funicular is a perfect example of the type of public transportation Lisbon created to navigate its steep streets. Its signature yellow color, introduced in 1920, has since become an iconic symbol of the city. Tickets cost €4.20, allowing you to ride up and down either in a single trip or once in each direction on the same day. Even if you don’t hop on, the funicular is a popular photo spot at the top, where many visitors stop to snap a picture.