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Lisbon Travel Guide

Discover Lisbon like a local with our comprehensive travel guide. From quiet accommodations and hidden gems to dining spots and must-see attractions, this guide has everything you need for an unforgettable stay.
Praça de Commercio
Photo by Claudio Schwarz / Unsplash

Here is my quick Travel Guide for People Visiting Lisbon

I often get requests from people visiting Lisbon—family, friends, associates, and those with hardly any connection. So, instead of advising one-on-one, I thought I needed to provide an overview that many can follow to have a good start to their fun vacation.

Portugal is a beautiful country. As many of you know, I moved here to have a calmer, healthier life and even wrote a workbook on my experience to help others who also have Portugal on their list of places to move to.

So, naturally, many people I know are curious and want to visit. I have prepared my quick tips for vacation planning in Portugal.

Remember, pace yourself. I live here and have not seen everything there is to see, so you can't do it in a few days. Decide on a few things, and be flexible. Slowing down and savoring the food, the views, and the people are essential to having fun.

Note that the * are places and services I have used or have had friends or family use, and I can, therefore, attest to their high fun score on the fun-o-meter.

If you need more personalized help, don't hesitate to book a video call with me here.


Where to Stay

In Lisbon (Central City):

In Parede/Carcavelos (Quieter areas near a beach, café and restaurants):

In Cascais (also near a beach):

In Oeiras (A quiet area close to Lisbon):


Things to Do in Lisbon

Historic Neighborhoods:

  • *Alfama: Wander the narrow streets of old Lisbon, visit São Jorge Castle, and enjoy Fado music at night.
  • *Belém: One of my favorites: Walk through Belém, see the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and Padrão dos Descobrimentos, sit in the park, and people-watch.
  • *Bairro Alto & Chiado: Vibrant areas for dining and nightlife.

Museums & Palaces:

Hidden Gems:


Where to Eat (Variety of Diets)

For All Diets:

  • *Honest Greens (Cascais): Farm-to-table healthy meals.
  • *Time Out Market: A variety of cuisines under one roof.

Traditional Portuguese:

Vegetarian/Vegan Options:

Casual:

  • Manteigaria: Best pasteis de nata in Lisbon (arguably).
  • There are endless cafés, so most will have great snacks. Try a Pastel de Bacalhua.

How to Get Around

Public Transport:

  • *Trains: Use Comboios de Portugal. Great for day trips to Sintra, Cascais, and Porto.
  • *Metro: Easy to use and connects key Lisbon areas. Get a Viva Viagem card at any station.
  • *Buses/Trams: Iconic Tram 28: A tourist favorite, but be wary of crowds.

Taxi & Rideshare:

*Bolt and *Uber are widely available. Bolt is cheaper. Uber is more reliable when it rains or during rush hour. If you are a taxi kind of person, see this link.


Quick Day Trip Suggestions

Cascais & Estoril:

  • Relax on the beaches, explore *Boca do Inferno, and stroll the charming streets of Cascais.
  • Have lunch at a seaside restaurant like Mar do Inferno.
  • *O Segredo, Brazilian, all-you-can-eat.

*Algarve:

  • Known for its stunning beaches and coastal cliffs. Rent a car or take *Flexibus to reach towns like Lagos and Albufeira. There is lots to see, but if you have time, a few more miles/kilometers east, and you could be in Seville, Spain.

*Porto:

  • Visit Ribeira, taste Francesinha sandwiches, and enjoy Port wine tours. (A 3-hour train ride from Lisbon.)
  • Kind Kitchen, for vegan francesinha.

Local Tips

  • Basic Portuguese Phrases:
    • Hello: Olá
    • Thank you: Obrigado/a (gendered male and female)
    • Please: Por favor
    • How much? Quanto custa?
  • Meals: Look for “prato do dia” signs for affordable, local dishes. Sometimes, it includes appetizer and coffee.
  • Reservations: Recommended for popular or high-end restaurants.
  • Cash: Many smaller local establishments prefer cash.
  • Free Views: Skip the Elevador de Santa Justa fee; access its top via Largo do Carmo.

Use the Expedia search tool below to make your bookings (flights and hotels or short-term rentals)

Enjoy your stay in Portugal! This guide covers a lot, but please ask if you need further details. Boa viagem!

If you want more personalized services, please book a one-on-one session with me here. I'll gladly help you tailor your travel plans to suit your needs.