Lisbon Things to Do and See: Top Experiences and Hidden Gems for 2025
- comedyinyoureye
- Oct 10
- 15 min read
Lisbon is a city that never really sits still. Every time I visit, there’s something new to find, whether it’s a tucked-away wine bar or a street festival happening in a square I’ve never seen before. The old trams rattle past colourful houses, the river glimmers at sunset, and the smell of grilled sardines drifts through the air. Of course, there are the classic sights, but Lisbon is full of surprises if you’re willing to wander a little. Here’s my go-to list of Lisbon things to do and see for 2025 – a mix of must-sees and a few hidden gems I’ve stumbled on over the years.
Key Takeaways
Lisbon mixes old favourites with fresh new spots every year, so there’s always something different to experience.
Neighbourhoods like Alfama and Marvila have their own distinct feel – don’t just stick to the city centre.
You can find unusual activities, from baking pastel de nata to exploring secret gardens or even climbing a bridge.
Eating and drinking in Lisbon is about more than just food – it’s a social thing and a great way to meet locals.
Don’t rush – the best bits of Lisbon reveal themselves when you slow down and explore at your own pace.
Explore Lisbon’s Vibrant Neighbourhoods
Lisbon doesn’t feel like one city – it’s more like a patchwork of worlds with their own character. If you want to get a sense of why locals hold this city so close, stroll around a few of its neighbourhoods. Each one has a personality shaped by history, creativity, and community.
Wander Through Alfama’s Winding Alleyways
Walking through Alfama, you’ll hear fado music floating from open windows and spot laundry stretching between colourful balconies. The alleys twist and turn up steep hills, and you’ll regularly lose your sense of direction, which truly is part of the fun. Don’t be shy about popping into tiny bars or bakeries.
Highlights in Alfama:
Feira da Ladra: The old flea market every Tuesday and Saturday, with vintage goods and a real local buzz.
Fado Houses: Stop in for the melancholic sounds of Lisbon’s signature music.
São Vicente de Fora Monastery: A quiet treasure above the rooftops.
Even after all these years, Alfama still surprises me – you never really see the same street twice, and every turn hides something new.
Uncover Art and Innovation in Marvila
Once a warehouse district, Marvila has turned itself into a space full of art, beer, and bold ideas. Street art covers warehouse walls, breweries pour their own creations, and big events pop up all the time. That mix of new and old Lisbon is easy to spot here.
Try these in Marvila:
Visit a local craft brewery and taste something brewed just around the corner.
Check out a gallery in an old industrial building.
Sit down at a community table in a food pop-up and chat to someone new – locals, digital nomads, and artists come here to hang out.
Place | What To Expect | Best Time To Go |
|---|---|---|
Beer Warehouse | Unique local brews | Afternoons, Weekends |
Art Exhibition Space | Rotating modern art shows | Evenings |
Street Art Tour | Bold murals, big ideas | Any time |
Soak Up Riverside Charm in Belém
Down by the river, Belém feels airy and grand. It’s got monuments that tell stories from Portugal’s exploration days, but also has green lawns where families picnic, cyclists ride by, and people fish from the river wall. There’s an urban winery housed in an old repair shop if you fancy tasting Lisbon wines where you’d least expect. Don’t miss the elegant gardens and spaces in Bairro da Lapa nearby, if you’re already passing through the area.
Key things to do in Belém:
See the famous Belém Tower by the riverbank.
Try a pastel de nata in its hometown – the original bakery is still going strong.
Take a riverside walk or rent a bike for the smoother bits.
Most people rush the big sights here, but if you grab a coffee and sit in the park, you’ll see how much locals cherish this strip of the city.
Iconic Lisbon Things to Do and See
Lisbon has become one of Europe’s must-see cities for a reason. Packed with classic sights, there’s so much to take in—from head-turning history to new finds around every corner. This part of the city guide covers Lisbon’s icons and the things you just can’t leave without experiencing—even if the locals sometimes roll their eyes at how popular these spots have become.
Ride the Historic Trams and Funiculars
You hear them before you see them: the yellow trams rattling up impossibly steep hills, often around corners that look physically impossible. Most people hop on Tram 28 for the full city experience—expect it to be crowded, but you’ll pass through everything from grand squares to winding alleyways. The three funiculars (Glória, Bica, and Lavra) are also worth a go if your feet need a rest. Try to ride early in the morning or late at night—otherwise, you’ll be packed in like sardines.
Trams and Funiculars at a Glance:
Vehicle | Route Highlights | Running Since |
|---|---|---|
Tram 28 | Graça, Alfama, Baixa, Estrela | 1914 |
Glória | Restauradores to Bairro Alto | 1885 |
Bica | Rua de São Paulo to Largo do Calhariz | 1892 |
Lavra | Largo da Anunciada to Rua Câmara Pestana | 1884 |
Marvel at Castelo de S. Jorge
The castle looms over the city—a proper medieval fortress with stone walls, tangled gardens, and unbeatable views of the rooftops spilling down to the river. There’s history everywhere: ancient ruins just beneath the surface, a camera obscura offering a bird’s-eye perspective, plus hidden corners where you can escape the crowds. Take your time walking the ramparts and watch Lisbon stretch out in every direction.
Expect to wait in line if you come midday.
On a clear day, you can see all the way to the 25 de Abril Bridge.
There are free-roaming peacocks strutting around the gardens.
Capture Views from Picturesque Miradouros
Miradouros are essentially viewpoints, and Lisbon’s hills mean you’re never far from a good one. Each has its own vibe:
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte – Peaceful, less crowded, sweeping city views.
Miradouro de Santa Catarina – Popular for sunset, great for people-watching.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara – Lovely gardens, live music, city panorama.
Bring a coffee or pastel de nata and just sit for a while—you don’t need to rush. The light changes all day and turns everything golden at sunset.
Some of my favourite travel memories are perched on these stone walls, watching new friends spill out guitars and stories as the city slowly wakes up or winds down. You’ll get a sense of Lisbon here that no guidebook can describe.
Discover the Secrets Beneath Baixa’s Streets
If you want to see something truly unexpected, book a tour of the Roman Galleries hidden right under Baixa. These ancient tunnels are only open a handful of times each year. Flashlight in hand, you’ll wander past mysterious arches and centuries-old brickwork, surrounded by the hush of the underground. You have to reserve your spot quickly—with the limited dates, this is one of Lisbon’s genuine hidden experiences.
Tours are limited to small groups, so plan ahead.
The experience is not for the claustrophobic (it’s dark and sometimes a bit wet!)
Wear sturdy shoes—there are puddles and slippery stairs.
Each of these sights leaves you with a different slice of Lisbon. Whether you’re peering down from the ramparts of an age-old castle or following the tramlines that curl around the old quarters, these moments are what make the city unforgettable.
Gastronomy Adventures in Lisbon
Eating in Lisbon isn’t just about filling your belly – it's a full-on experience. From classic pastries straight from the oven to conversations with chefs at secret dinners, the city’s food scene has its own rhythm. Here’s how to get stuck in.
Attend a Pastel de Nata Baking Class
Everyone knows about the pastel de nata, but making them yourself is a whole other thing. Bakers share basic tricks, like rolling out the flaky dough and whisking that golden custard till it’s just right. You’ll probably burn your fingers snatching them up hot from the tray, and that's part of the fun. Classes last about two hours; you start awkward, but by the end, you're pretty much competing for best swirl. You’ll never look at those yellow tarts in the same way again.
Roll pastry, cut and shape rounds
Mix and pour the custard filling
Bake and taste your efforts (try not to eat them all at once)
After trying to replicate the recipe at home, I can safely say that nothing beats biting into a still-warm pastel in a cosy Lisbon kitchen, with sugary dust flying everywhere.
Dine at Hidden Supper Clubs and Secret Restaurants
If you've had enough crowded cafes, supper clubs are a real treat. They’re not always easy to find—some are in living rooms, others tucked away above grocers or old bookstores. Hosts cook multi-course menus, and you get a taste of family dishes you’d never see on a restaurant chalkboard. It’s loud, it’s a bit messy, and you end up swapping stories with total strangers. Bookings are essential. A lot of these are word-of-mouth – part of the adventure is just finding them.
Sample Local Wines at Urban Wineries
You don’t have to rent a car or head out to the countryside to drink well. Lisbon has a new crop of urban wineries where grapes are trucked in, pressed, and bottled right in the city. Go for a lunch tasting—you’ll get flights of white, red, maybe some sparkling, plus local cheese and bread. Guides will tell you why that vinho branco is cloudy or why your red has a pepper kick. If you want a guided food adventure with a bit of history (and really good wine), check out a small group food and walking tour around Alfama.
Wine Tasting Options | Duration | Approx. Price (2025) |
|---|---|---|
Basic Tasting | 1 hour | €15–20 |
Premium Tasting | 2 hours | €30–45 |
Full Tour + Lunch | 3 hours | €50–70 |
Have a Portuguese Dinner at a Local’s Home
Maybe the best stories and flavours come from Portuguese homes. More and more locals are opening their doors for visiting diners: you get four or five courses, poured drinks, and if you're lucky, someone will plug in a guitar for Fado. These nights are about sharing slow meals and long chats, not rushing. If you don’t know anyone in Lisbon, it’s still possible to sign up for these dinners online, and you’ll leave with a happy stomach and a couple of new friends.
So, if you’re looking for ways to eat, bake, sip, and connect—with strangers, traditions, or just really good tarts—Lisbon quietly delivers every time.
Creative and Cultural Experiences Await
Lisbon isn’t just old monuments and pretty viewpoints; it’s throbbing with energy and ideas, and it’s hard not to get swept up in it all. The city keeps shaking things up, mixing the past and present, and you never know where you might stumble onto a mural, an underground gig, or a night that goes completely off the rails (in a good way).
Join a Street Art Discovery Tour
Lisbon is like one big, open-air gallery. If you’re curious, tagging along on a proper street art tour is a smart move. Here’s why:
Guided walks go deep into neighbourhoods most tourists skip.
You’ll spot hidden murals from big names—like Vhils—plus newer, wild stuff bubbling up from the city’s edges.
Some tours even let you try your hand at spray painting or give you a rundown of the city’s rules about legal vs. illegal street art.
Bring comfy shoes and a charged phone—you’ll end up snapping photo after photo, and half the fun is seeing how each back alley reveals something different.
Visit the Gulbenkian and Modern Art Centre
The Gulbenkian Museum is sort of a surprise. From the outside it looks like another concrete box, but step in and you’ll find treasures from thousands of years ago and slickly curated modern works. If you love a quiet afternoon with art (and maybe a break from the Lisbon sun), this is your spot.
Here's a sample of what you might expect to see in the main collections:
Collection Type | Famous Artists You Might See |
|---|---|
Ancient and Classic | Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Persian |
European Fine Art | Rembrandt, Rubens, Turner |
Modern (Next Door Modern Art Centre) | Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, Vieira da Silva |
The gardens outside are free, so even if you skip the exhibitions, it’s worth a stroll.
Temporary shows mean you’ll nearly always find something new.
Get a museum pass for a discount if you’re planning a cultural binge.
Immerse Yourself in a Traditional Fado Night
Fado isn’t just sung—Lisbon’s soul pours out in tiny bars, smoky "casas de fado," and unexpected corners of the city. Some nights you might get goosebumps from a professional singer belting over a 12-string Portuguese guitar; other nights, it’s more casual, and locals start up their own chorus after a few glasses of wine. Don’t expect a big stage show or touristy dinner—real fado is raw and honest.
Three things to keep in mind:
Call ahead if you want a seat—some of the best spots in Alfama and Bairro Alto are tiny.
Respect the silence when the singing starts—all chatting usually stops (it’s serious).
Don’t be surprised if you leave feeling a little bit changed; fado has that kind of power.
Stepping into Lisbon’s creative scene isn’t about rushing from sight to sight, but about slowing down, soaking it all in, and letting the city’s rhythm find you.
Nature, Parks and Outdoor Escapes
Big cities always need escapes, and Lisbon's green spaces make taking a break from concrete and crowds almost too easy. While visitors usually rush to viewpoints, locals know some of Lisbon’s best moments happen with grass beneath your feet and the breeze off the Tejo River.
Picnic in Jardim do Torel
High above Avenida da Liberdade, Jardim do Torel is one of those parks where you forget the traffic and noise exist. Pack a simple picnic or grab pastries from a nearby bakery, and snag a bench with a panorama of the city sprawling below. The hammocks and shade keep things relaxed—sometimes you’ll see students napping or couples sharing a bottle of vinho verde at sunset.
Benches with city views
Hammocks for lounging
Fountains to cool off
Not crowded, except on Saturday afternoons
Sometimes, sitting in Torel you hear nothing but birds—a rare thing for a capital city. Even if those quiet moments last just five minutes, somehow it’s all the recharge you need after a busy morning.
Wander Tapada das Necessidades Gardens
Hidden in plain sight behind Avenida Infante Santo, Tapada das Necessidades feels half-forgotten and magical. Wild peacocks roam, old greenhouses crumble, and ponds mirror palm trees. It’s a perfect place for a slow walk or to just sit with a sketchbook. All ages wander the groves, and at weekends, families meet for lazy picnics while kids race around. A word to the wise: wear comfy shoes—the paths can be rough and the best corners aren’t paved.
Why Tapada das Necessidades Stands Out:
Home to free-roaming peacocks
Huge variety of old and rare trees
Quiet, even in summer months
Occasional pop-up art installations
Relax in Ajuda’s Botanical Gardens
Down by Ajuda, the Botanical Gardens are a plant-lover’s paradise—lush, structured, and with an old-world feeling you don’t get in the busier parks. Pick any path and you’ll pass sweet-smelling bushes, centuries-old cacti, and delicate flowers. There are formal terraces to wander, but just as many wild pockets to get lost in. Kids love the maze-like feel, and plant geeks will want to bring binoculars or a camera.
If you’re ticking off outdoor spots, there’s even more to uncover—Lisbon’s parks and gardens surprise in every corner, whether you end up in the thick woods of Monsanto, leafy Estrela, or lounging at Parque Eduardo VII with its open skyline views.
Unusual and Offbeat Lisbon Things to Do and See
Lisbon isn’t just its classic trams and tiled streets—it’s also weird, creative, and sometimes absolutely unexpected. If you’re keen to break away from the usual postcard routine, here are some odd and memorable adventures for 2025.
Sip Cocktails at PARK Rooftop Bar
Ever had a cocktail on top of a car park? That’s what you do at PARK. The lift doors open and bam—you’re greeted by plants, people lounging, and some of the most laid-back beats in town. The real highlight is the view over the old rooftops and river, especially around sunset. There’s an ever-changing drinks menu, plus DJs who spin until late. Just don’t be surprised if your GPS gets confused; half the fun is finding the right staircase to the top.
Rooftop views stretch across Bairro Alto and the Tejo River
Dj sets most evenings, especially weekends
Get there early if you want the best seats for sunset
It’s not fancy, but the atmosphere makes you feel like you’re in on a local secret every single time you visit.
For more suggestions on unconventional sights, you might check out these offbeat attractions in Lisbon.
Escape in Inventive Game Rooms
Escape rooms may have popped up in loads of big cities, but Lisbon puts its own spin on things. Many themes take inspiration from Lisbon’s history—think secret passages, old explorers, or underground societies. The rooms at Game Over and Mission to Escape are a particular favourite. Expect ticking clocks, cryptic riddles, and puzzles you’ll kick yourself for not solving sooner.
Here’s how to make the most of your escape room experience:
Gather a group with diverse skills (logic, observation, word games).
Listen carefully: sometimes the host drops sneaky hints at the start.
Divide up—if you get stuck, swap puzzles.
Don’t overthink; usually, the answer is right in front of you.
Teamwork really is the key. Once you’ve wrangled your way out, there’s always a nearby café to dissect the details and laugh about how close you were to missing that obvious clue.
Climb to the Top of 25 de Abril Bridge
One of Lisbon’s icons is the 25 de Abril Bridge. And now, it’s possible to climb up above the traffic—safely harnessed, of course. The route takes you along service walkways used by maintenance crews, with guides explaining both the history and the wild logistics of the structure. The views are unreal: the river sparkles below, and huge ships drift past, dwarfed by the bridge’s scale.
Activity | Approx. Time | Price (€) | Book in Advance? |
|---|---|---|---|
Bridge Climb | 1.5 hrs | 29-40 | Yes |
All safety gear provided
Not for anyone scared of heights—it gets windy!
Morning climbs are quieter and often cooler
When you stand up there, you see the whole city laid out—and suddenly, Lisbon feels a bit smaller, and your day a whole lot bigger.
Experience Lisbon by Water and Beyond
Lisbon is hugged by the Tejo River and close to the Atlantic, so life by the water really is part of the city’s pulse. Getting out on the water or heading to the coast gives you a new way to look at Lisbon — kind of like flipping the whole place inside out.
Sail Along the Tejo River at Sunset
Nothing beats sitting on a boat, glass in hand, watching Lisbon’s landmarks glow as the sun goes down. You can book a spot on all kinds of boats: classic sailing boats, comfy small cruisers, or even retro fishing vessels that are now mini lounges. Here’s what I’d consider:
Most tours start by the city centre, often at Cais do Sodré or Belém docks
You’ll see the 25 de Abril Bridge, pastel old neighbourhoods, and maybe even the Padrão dos Descobrimentos
Tours often come with a local drink or snack – think vinho verde, olives, maybe some small pastries
If you fancy something more private, group bookings or smaller boats are available
When you’re out on the Tejo and the breeze picks up just as the lights flicker on in Lisbon, it feels like the end of a film. It’s calm, but also very much alive.
Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour
Dolphin watching is a real surprise here. You’d expect it in the Algarve, but it’s popular near Lisbon too, especially from Setúbal or the estuary mouth. Operators work hard to be respectful of wildlife, and the guides usually know their stuff. Here’s what to expect:
Boat tours depart from Lisbon, Almada, or Setúbal
Main species you’ll see: bottlenose and common dolphins
Tours last a few hours — often half-day
There’s a chance to see seabirds and sometimes even sunfish
Departure Point | Typical Duration | Likelihood of Sighting |
|---|---|---|
Lisbon | 2–3 hours | Moderate |
Setúbal | 3–4 hours | High |
Sesimbra | 2–3 hours | Moderate/High |
Relax on Nearby Atlantic Beaches
Lisbon is surrounded by wild Atlantic coast and city-close beaches that are so easy to reach. Don’t just stick to the centre — grab a local train or quick taxi and you’re sorted. Here’s how to do it without stress:
Catch the train from Cais do Sodré for Praia de Carcavelos, the city’s most well-known sandy beach. It’s a straight shot and you’ll be walking barefoot in the sand in under 40 minutes.
Head west to Praia da Adraga or Praia das Maçãs for more natural and sometimes quieter coves. Ideal if you want cliffs, rough surf, and open space.
For consistent surf and a lively crowd, Costa da Caparica is the go-to. Loads of snack bars and an endless stretch of sand.
You can split a day between swimming, beach walks, and snacking at a seaside café. The water is fresh — sometimes cold — but that’s all part of the fun, especially on a hot day.
Wrapping Up: Lisbon in 2025
So, there you have it. Lisbon is one of those cities that just keeps giving, no matter how many times you visit. You can tick off the big sights, sure, but the real fun is in the little surprises—like stumbling across a rooftop bar hidden above a car park, or finding a tiny bakery that serves the best pastel de nata you’ve ever tasted. Whether you’re into art, food, music, or just wandering around and seeing what you find, there’s always something new to try. My advice? Don’t rush. Take your time, chat to locals, and let yourself get a bit lost. That’s when you’ll find the real gems. Lisbon in 2025 is buzzing with energy and full of stories—go out and make some of your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I spend in Lisbon to see the main sights?
You can visit the main places in Lisbon in two days, but it’s much nicer if you stay for three or four days. This way, you have time to relax, try local food, and enjoy the city’s parks and riverside without rushing.
What is the best way to get around Lisbon?
Lisbon is a city with lots of hills, so walking can be tiring. The best way to get around is by using the historic trams, buses, and metro. You can also use taxis or ride-sharing apps if you want to travel fast and don’t want to walk up steep streets.
Where can I try real pastel de nata in Lisbon?
You can find pastel de nata, the famous custard tart, in almost every bakery in Lisbon. For a special treat, visit Pastéis de Belém, where the recipe is a secret. You can also join a baking class to learn how to make them yourself.
Are there any hidden or unusual things to do in Lisbon?
Yes! Besides the popular spots, you can visit rooftop bars like PARK, explore street art in Marvila, take a tour under the city to see Roman ruins, or have dinner at a secret supper club. There are also fun escape rooms and unique gardens to discover.
Is Lisbon a good place for families and kids?
Lisbon is great for families. There are parks, gardens, and lots of outdoor spaces. Kids usually enjoy riding the trams, visiting the Oceanarium, and having picnics in places like Jardim do Torel or Ajuda’s Botanical Gardens.
Can I visit the beach from Lisbon?
Yes, you can! Lisbon is close to the Atlantic Ocean, and there are many beaches just a short train or bus ride away. Places like Cascais and Costa da Caparica are perfect for a day trip to relax by the sea.