Top 10 things you cannot skip when in Lisbon (kindly curated by the UXLx team)
Selecting a top of things you cannot miss when you’re in Lisbon for UXLx is not an easy task. Being one of the oldest cities in the world and the second-oldest European capital city (after Athens) makes it kind of an open-air museum. In such an historic city you’ll find a number of interesting sights. However, Lisbon has not stopped in time in anyway. Here you’ll also find street art and modern architecture as well as a vibrant nightlife. To top it off, its people have a family-like way to welcome visitors.
Feeling excited already? Here’s our Lisbon Top 10:
1. Wonder at Belém Tower
Belém is definitely a place worth exploring. This is the place from where the Portuguese 15th century explorers sailed out into the ocean to reach new territories during the Discoveries. Reflecting the richness of that period in History are the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, with a detailed architectural ornamentation style you can only find in Portugal.
Built as a defensive fortress in the 16th century, the Belém Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks of Lisbon.
2. Discover the stunning architecture of Jerónimos Monastery
Built in the 16th century, it stands as a symbol of Portugal’s wealth during the Age of Discovery. The church holds the tomb of the navigator Vasco da Gama.
The queues to enter the Monastery can be quite long, but there’s never a queue to visit the church, plus the entrance is free.
3. Try the famous Pastéis de Belém
After visiting the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, stop by the old pastry shop Pastéis de Belém that holds the original recipe of the pastéis de nata, served warm and straight out of the oven.
Normally there’s a long queue out the door and down the road, but don’t be frightened, that’s just for the takeaway tarts. You can go in, find a table, sit and enjoy this delicious treat.
Insider tip: add a hint of cinnamon and icing sugar on top of it. Even yummier! 😋
4. Go for a tram ride up the hills
Passing through Lisbon’s most popular historic districts, number 28 tram is possibly one of the best tours of the city.
This vintage trams will take you on a journey through the city’s hills and medieval streets.
5. Enjoy breathtaking views in Alfama
Alfama is the oldest and most traditional neighbourhood in Lisbon. Discover its labyrinth-like cobblestone streets and make a stop at Miradouro dos Portas do Sol or Miradouro de Santa Luzia for a postcard view of the city.
6. Get a taste of Portuguese food
In Time Out Market you’ll find great food experiences under the same roof.
This modern Portuguese food hall has 25 restaurants representing some of Portugal’s top chefs.
7. Shop in Rua Augusta
Rua Augusta is a bustling pedestrian street with a variety of shops and restaurants, street artists and performers. When you walk pass the famous arch you’ll find Terreiro do Paço (also known as Praça do Comércio). This 18th century square is one of the biggest in Europe and probably the most famous one in Lisbon.
💡 Pro tip: Go to the top of the arch to get an amazing bird’s-eye view of the city center (3€).
8. Enjoy the sunset by the river
You’ll be surprised by the colours of Lisbon sky at dusk. There are several beautiful spots to admire the sunset as you take a stroll down the river. We recommend:
- MAAT (in the photo)
- Cais das Colunas, by Comércio Square
- Ribeira das Naus
9. Have dinner at LX Factory
LX Factory is an old industrial complex that reborn as a space for creativity and experiences. It’s now one of the trendiest places in Lisbon.
There’s an amazing bookstore — Ler Devagar — considered one of the 10 most beautiful bookstores in the world, urban art, shops and plenty of bars and restaurants.
10. Have a drink in Bairro Alto
Known for its lively nightlife, you’ll find great restaurants, Fado houses, bars and nightclubs.
During the day the narrow streets and lanes are filled with small design shops and art galleries.
Which of these suggestions are you including in your list of things to visit while in Lisbon for UXLx?
