Explore 10 neighbourhoods & surrounding towns of Lisbon
Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city. From imposing São Jorge Castle, the view encompasses the old city’s pastel-colored buildings, Tagus Estuary and Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge. Just outside Lisbon is a string of Atlantic beaches, from Cascais to Estoril.
1. ALFAMA
The steep streets of Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest areas, are lined with shops selling traditional crafts and cafes. Passengers pack the historic no. 28 tram, which winds through Alfama on its way up to 11th-century São Jorge Castle. Views from Miradouro da Graça terrace stretch over the city to the River Tagus. In the evening, melancholy Fado music can be heard in some of the area's long-running restaurants.
2. BAIRRO ALTO
Visitors wander the steep cobbled streets of bohemian Bairro Alto to ride the Bica Funicular, visit lavish São Roque Church and take in the views from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Many of the centuries-old houses in the neighborhood are decorated with vivid street art. After sundown, a diverse crowd fill the hip, quirky bars, while the evocative sound of Fado music is heard from traditional restaurants.
3. CAIS DO SODRE
Cais do Sodre is the understatedly cool and trendy district of Lisbon, which has spearheaded the recent transformation of the city from traditional, to progressive and liberal. The once neglected area has become fashionable, as new shops, cafes and bars open, while the entire water front has undergone a much-needed rejuvenation. There is a lot for tourists to love about Cais do Sodre, with a riotous nightlife, delicious food from the Timeout market or the simple relaxed vibe of the Ribeira das Naus.
4. CHIADO & BAXIA
The Chiado is a neighborhood in the historic center of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. Chiado is an important cultural and commercial district, known for its luxury shopping, historic landmarks, and its numerous theatres and museums. Baixa is Lisbon’s historic heart and commercial center. Neoclassical architecture, built after the 1755 earthquake, surrounds Commerce and Rossio squares. Bustling pedestrianized streets are lined with traditional seafood restaurants and souvenir shops. The National Museum of Contemporary Art, in the upscale Chiado area, shows Portuguese art from the mid-1800s to today, and the Santa Justa Lift offers city views.
5. JERONIMOS MONASTERY & TOWER OF BELEM
The Jerónimos Monastery or Hieronymites Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) is a former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome near the Tagus river in the parish of Belém, in the Lisbon Municipality, Portugal; it was secularised on 28 December 1833 by state decree and its ownership transferred to the charitable institution, Real Casa Pia de Lisboa. The monastery is one of the most prominent examples of the Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline style of architecture in Lisbon. It was classified a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the nearby Tower of Belém, in 1983.
6. ALDEIA DO MECO (40 KM FROM LISBON)
This tiny village, 12km northwest of Sesimbra, is famous for its seafood restaurants. Praia do Meco is an unspoilt sweep of golden sand, flanked by low-rise cliffs; try to catch one of its mesmerising sunsets. On its northern end, the stunning Lagoa de Albufeira is a postcard-perfect, beach-flanked lagoon popular for windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding.
7. AZENHAS DO MAR (40 KM FROM LISBON)
Azenhas do Mar is a seaside town in the municipality of Sintra, Portugal. It is part of Colares civil parish. It is located just 30 km away from Lisboa, near Cabo da Roca, Palácio da Pena, and other attractions.
8. CASCAIS (34 KM FROM LISBON)
Cascais is a coastal resort town in Portugal, just west of Lisbon. It’s known for its sandy beaches and busy marina. The old town is home to the medieval Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort and the Citadel Palace, a former royal retreat. Nearby is the whitewashed Nossa Senhora da Assunção church, with glazed azulejo tiles.
9. OBIDOS (85 KM FROM LISBON)
The captivating town of Óbidos became home to Portugal’s queens after Afonso II gifted it to his wife Urraca of León in the 1200s. Many of the buildings and monuments in were founded or funded by a queen. On a narrow ridge, the town’s weaving, carless streets are contained by the dominant walls of a medieval castle.
10. SINTRA (30 KM FROM LISBON)
Sintra is a resort town in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains, near the capital, Lisbon. A longtime royal sanctuary, its forested terrain is studded with pastel-colored villas and palaces. The Moorish- and Manueline-style Sintra National Palace is distinguished by dramatic twin chimneys and elaborate tilework. The hilltop 19th-century Pena National Palace is known for a whimsical design and sweeping views.
When to go: Lisbon has long hot summers, pleasantly warm springs/autumns and mild, but possibly wet winters. The height of the tourist season is from June until the end of September, while the beaches are at their busiest in July and August. The weather is suitable for spending time on Lisbon’s beaches from May until the middle of September.
The best season to visit Lisbon is late spring or early autumn; when there are fewer tourists, but the weather is still glorious.
Visas: If you are visiting Portugal as a tourist or intend to stay for less than three months, you can apply for a Portuguese Schengen visa. The Schengen short-stay visa allows you to stay in Portugal, or anywhere in the Schengen area, for a total of 90 days out of a 180-day period.
Currency: Euro
Language: The language spoken in Lisbon is Portuguese but English is widely spoken by all people who work within the tourist industry.
26 EXPERIENCES TO DISCOVER - CLICK ON THE LINKS FOR MORE DETAILS, IMAGES, DIRECTIONS & TO BOOK DIRECTLY AT THE BEST PRICES:
1. SLEEP AT DL BORDALO HOUSE
At Bordalo House, they took care of every single detail so you feel inspired inside the same way you feel outside. Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro Square has proved to be one of the most lively of the city throughout time, above trends and seasons. Now ready to be lived by you, in honour of who has given its name. With a unique taste and style, from the façade to indoors, Dear Lisbon Bordalo House offers nine luminous suites, each with a different personality.
2. SLEEP AT DL CHARMING HOUSE
DL Charming House is located in Santa Catarina, one of Lisbon’s most iconic neighbourhoods. Arriving here is a pleasant surprise after going up and down the steep hills. This is the perfect urban oasis you will need after a day exploring the real Lisboa. Let yourself get lost in the pace of fado, the genuine food, spontaneous culture, vibrant nightlife and unexpected shops. Welcome home.
3. SLEEP AT DL GALLERY HOUSE
DL Gallery House is located in Rua de São Bento, a quite peculiar street. Here you will find everything from Portuguese carpenters to French baguettes, typical restaurants to modern groceries and even the Lisbon icon itself, the 28 tram. All the rooms and suites are curated like an art gallery. Each and every detail was taken in consideration from furniture to colours, materials to shapes.
4. SLEEP AT DL LIVING HOUSE
With 6 rooms spread over 3 floors, this is the smallest house of Dear Lisbon Houses. Fresh in look, delicate in style, let yourself be encircled with the narrow and twisted streets merging new concept stores and Lisbon urban flavours. The breakfast is served on the ground floor, side by side with the reception and kitchen.
5. SLEEP AT DL PALACE CHIADO
Located in the heart of Lisbon, Chiado, DL Palace is not just another guesthouse. This noble house was the original home of Viscondes de Loures in the 19th century and it still currently hosts the Grémio Literário – one of Lisbon’s oldest cultural icons. They kept all the elegance adding a modern twist so you can enjoy the perks of an exclusive experience Lisboeta.
6. SLEEP AT DL VALMOR PALACE
Located in Av. da República, one of the main avenues of Lisbon, DL Valmor has 12 exclusive suites and it was designed based on the Portuguese Country House model, with its neo-classic and eclectic style, works of art and antiques. The furniture used serves to balance the time-travel effect and offers you all the modern comforts.
7. SLEEP AT FLH HOTEL URBANO
Welcome to Urbano, a FLH Hotel. Urbano, because it’s in the heart of this metropolitan city. Urbano, because it is modern and irreverent. Urbano, because it is outside the box. Urbano, because it makes you feel like home. Every day, from 8.00 to 10.30 am, the team will deliver a complete and delicious breakfast to your room. You just need to decide the time and wait for the knock at your door. Fresh orange juice, freshly baked bread and croissants, fruit and yogurt… it is impossible not to love this experience!
8. SLEEP AT FLORA CHIADO APARTMENTS
Flora Chiado Apartments are located between Bertrand, the oldest library in the world, and Nossa Senhora dos Mártires Basilica, take a break and relax. The apartments are an oasis of light and space decorated in order to enhance the mystery of the old city that surrounds your stay.
9. SLEEP AT H10 DUQUE DE LOULÉ
H10 Duque de Loulé is an exclusive Boutique Hotel full of charm located in a historical building in the centre of Lisbon. Painstakingly renovated and decorated by interior designer Lázaro Rosa-Violán, its beautiful typical 18th-century facade has been preserved, while its interior design is a fusion of traditional Portuguese elements and contemporary modern and functional elements. This four-star superior hotel has 89 rooms, the à la carte Azul e Branco Restaurant, the Equestre Bar/Library, two meeting rooms and the Limão Chill-Out Terrace, boasting impressive views over Lisbon and the Tagus Estuary.
10. SLEEP AT HOTEL CONVENTO DO SALVADOR
Hotel Convento do Salvador is conveniently located in the heart of Alfama, one of Lisbon's most legendary neighbourhoods, the hotel is just steps away from the city's main tourist attractions: St. George's Castle, Sé Cathedral, traditional bars and restaurants, Fado houses, down-town Lisbon and Praça de Comércio, museums, belvederes, the famous no. 28 tram which passes right outside the door of the hotel.
11. SLEEP AT MERCADOR APARTMENTS
12. SLEEP AT THE ONE PALÁCIO DE ANUNCIADA
With a privileged location in Lisbon’s most exclusive area, The One Palácio da Anunciada is a new five-star hotel housed in an old 16th-century palace. The majestic establishment preserves the original architecture of the building which contrasts with the modernity of its facilities. Its sophisticated interior design, in neutral tones, breathes elegance and distinction. Of note are its original perfectly restored ceilings, the natural light inside and its extensive 2,500 m?2; gardens which feature a protected hundred-year-old dragon tree. The hotel has elegant rooms, a gastronomic restaurant, an outdoor pool, the Despacio Spa at The One and unique spaces for events and celebrations.
13. SLEEP AT TOREL CLIFF
Welcome to Torel Cliff in Óbidos – a cosy boutique bed & breakfast that provides an exclusive environment: space and a relaxed atmosphere. Come in and leave your everyday worries outside, relax in the gardens & pools, and feel at home in the spacious & cosy rooms. Enjoy the stunning scenery that Portugal’s Costa de Prata has to offer – be it golfing on some of Portugal’s best courses; surfing Europe’s finest beaches or just lying back & relaxing in your very own “exceptional place”.
14. SLEEP AT TOREL PALACE LISBON
Torel Palace, is two historic mansions dating back to 1902 and 1904, owned by a private family and the church respectively. Situated on the Colina Sant´Ana in the very heart of Lisbon, Torel Palace looks over the city centre, a hidden gem and calm paradise in the hustle and bustle of the city.
15. EAT AT FROM THE VINE - WINE TASTING BAR
From the Vine - Wine Tasting Bar specialize in wine tasting flights, where you can compare three, four or five wines from different regions and their complexity. Come join their wine expert in a private group setting for 2 hours as they explore 6 different wines paired with local cheese and charcuterie. They will discuss the history of wine in Portugal, it’s place in their culture and the uniqueness of each wine that has been carefully selected to feature the characters of each region.
16. EAT AT HÁ PITÉU
Opened in 2010, located in the heart of Bairro Alto, Há Pitéu is a cosy restaurant with traditional decor. The peaceful setting and the soft light make it a romantic restaurant, suitable for more intimate & family moments. It is frequented by people from all over the world, including Lisbon's own Alfacinhas! There are even folks that come in at midnight just to share a traditional portuguese chorizo accompanied by a glass of wine or a fresh sangria.
17. EAT AT RESTAURANTE CONSENSUAL
Bairro Alto's Best Kept Secret. Ring the door bell to come inside! A closed door restaurant which works preferably with reservations, where clients can find service that is refined, attentive, and above all personalized. A romantic and distinct space.
18. EAT AT SOMMELIER WINE RESTAURANT
Sommelier Lisbon is a bold and innovative project in the center of Lisbon. Combines haute cuisine, with the tasting of the finest wines, allowing you to make a custom choice from over 80 wines. Not only the best restaurant, Sommelier Lisbon is a Home for Wine Lovers.
19. PLAY AT AVENIDAS - TOURS & TRANSFERS
Avenidas are a travel company that aims to provide the best possible experience for their customers. For their drivers, your safety and comfort are as important as the cultural experience they offer. Discover their lovely country and culture with one of their private tours or small group tours. They want to make you feel like a LOCAL and they know they will!
20. PLAY AT BIKES & COMPANY
Bikes & Company are a team of dedicated and passionate cyclists. They love bikes and they love to ride Lisbon, not only because it’s sexy, fun, fast, flexible, healthy and the most eco-friendly way to go around the city, but also because they like the freedom of being part of a revolution – they believe in a greener future. The future of transport is electrical and that’s why they have the coolest e-bikes with vintage design, high quality and extreme comfort.
21. PLAY AT CLASSIC PORTUGAL
Classic Portugal is a team of local people and expats, with a shared love of Portugal. They offer private day tours from Lisbon for individuals, couples and small groups. All of their tours have been handpicked and crafted especially, in order to give you the best possible day. Their driver/guides are considerate, welcoming and always there for you.
22. PLAY AT EATWITH LISBON
Explore culinary experiences with locals in 130+ countries. Enjoy dinner parties, cooking classes and more in beautiful homes and exclusive venues. Choose an event, select the number of guests in your party, and experience the magic of Eatwith.
23. PLAY AT ECO TUK TOURS
Eco Tuk Tours are the ones who want to change the world with the following mission: Less Carbon, More Fun! Eco Tuk Tours Lisbon was the first company to launch the eco-friendly tuk-tuks in Portugal and is the best providing insightful experiences with a green footprint. All powered by the most “fascinating” local guides… In fact they’re crazy… But only about Lisbon!
24. PLAY AT LISBON BY BEETLE
There are several ways to discover a city but only one allows you to time travel: The Beetle Tour - a convertible in a stunning European city. Whether you choose a city tour to know the history of Lisbon , whether you choose the magic of Sintra hills or the stunning beached of Arrabida this iconic car will make your trip memorable. Take an epic tour with Lisbon by Beetle.
25. PLAY AT TUGATRIPS TOURS & EVENTS
TugaTrips are a team of people that know about their history and for that reason would like to share their experience and knowledge with you and take you to enchanting and amazing places full of history. All this with a smile from someone who loves Portugal!
26. PLAY AT WALKBORDER TOURS & TRANSFERS
Walkborder is a tourism company in Portugal that provides their costumers with private tours, completely taylor made and 100% flexible, their goal is to provide high quality service in tours and transfers all over Portugal. Visit their popular destinations and chose what you want to see. They have a variety and quality tours waiting for you.
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