Top 10 Things to Do in Lisbon for First Time Visitors

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Lisbon is one of those cities that instantly sweeps you off your feet. With its sun-drenched hills, tiled buildings, and vibrant street life, it’s both relaxed and full of energy all at once.

I’ve been to Lisbon twice now, and even though my most recent trip had more rainy days than I’d hoped (thanks October weather), I still absolutely loved it. What surprised me most? Just how slippery the tiled pavements can get, especially when wet.

If you’re visiting for the first time, this list will help you hit the must-see sights in Lisbon, get a feel for the city’s charm, and maybe even discover a few spots that tourists often overlook.

Table of Contents

1. Wander Through the Alfama Neighbourhood

Vintage yellow tram traveling through a narrow, cobbled street in Lisbon’s Alfama district, flanked by pastel buildings and leading toward the historic Lisbon Cathedral in the background. — The historic Alfama district with the cathedral in the background

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest district, and it shows in the best possible way. It’s a maze of steep, narrow alleys, tiled façades, and surprise viewpoints that open up between buildings.

Be prepared: it’s very hilly. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time.

You’ll also pass the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa), one of the city’s most iconic buildings. You can take a quick peek inside for free, but if you want to explore more, there’s an entrance fee. Personally, I don’t think it’s worth the money unless you’re really into church architecture.

Alfama is perfect for wandering, but it’s also home to one of Lisbon’s most famous attractions: Castel de São Jorge.

🛺 Save yourself the uphill walk and explore Lisbon by electro TukTuk instead!

2. Visit Castelo de São Jorge

The castle in Lisbon, you can see castle walls and a stone bridge over a grass field leading to the castle — Castelo de São Jorge: one of the top attractions in Lisbon

Expansive view of Lisbon's cityscape under a dramatic sky, showcasing colorful buildings, terracotta roofs, and the distant 25 de Abril Bridge over the Tagus River. — Castelo de São Jorge: one of the top attractions in Lisbon

Perched high above the city, Castelo de São Jorge offers some of the best views in Lisbon. It’s one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and for good reason. The hilltop setting, sweeping panoramas over the Tagus River, and ancient fortress walls make it a must for first-time visitors.

The site itself has a long history, dating back to Roman times, and you can walk along parts of the old castle walls. There’s a small museum and archaeological site too, though for most visitors, the real highlight is the view.

It can get crowded, especially around sunset, so I recommend going earlier in the day. And I recommend to buy tickets online on the official website to skip the line at the entrance.

🐾 Learn more about Lisbon’s fascinating history on a walking tour

3. Find Your Favourite Miradouro (Viewpoint)

Tina sitting on a wall looking over the Lisbon skyline — Me at Miradouro de Santa Luiza

One of the best things about Lisbon’s hilly layout? The endless viewpoints. Known as miradouros, these scenic overlooks are scattered all over the city, and each one offers a different perspective on Lisbon’s red rooftops, the river, and the rolling hills beyond.

Some of my favourites:

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: highest viewpoint, with sweeping panoramic views
Miradouro de Santa Luzia: romantic vibe, tiled walls, and a peek over Alfama

You don’t need to plan too much, just keep walking and you’ll stumble across at least a few.

4. Explore Baixa, Chiado & Bairro Alto

A big arch next to yellow buildings in Lisbon, in the back you can see a small statue straight behind the arch — Rua Augusta Arch

A lift shaft on the outside between two buildings, with a lot of people queuing up in front of it — Rua Augusta Arch

These three central neighbourhoods form the beating heart of Lisbon. Here are some top sights to check out:

Rua Augusta: Lisbon’s main pedestrian street, lined with shops and cafés
Arco da Rua Augusta: Climb to the top for a great view over Praça do Comércio
Santa Justa Lift: An old-school elevator that connects downtown to the upper city (tip: skip riding the elevator and take the steps instead, you’ll save queuing up and money)
Livraria Bertrand: Officially the world’s oldest bookstore, operating since 1732
Elevador da Bica: That picture-perfect yellow tram climbing a steep, narrow street
Carmo Convent: A striking open-air ruin of a church destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, haunting and beautiful. Today you can visit the ruins and a small museum inside

But keep in mind: Don’t forget to slow down and just wander through the streets. Grab a coffee, people-watch at a plaza, or take in the street art. Some of the best moments in Lisbon happen when you’re not trying to tick off sights.

🐾 Visit the top sights in Lisbon with a local on a guided walking tour

5. Discover the UNESCO Sights of Belém

A small fortress just off the shoreline in Belem, you can see it if you spend 2 days in Lisbon; how many days in Lisbon? — Belem Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site outside the city centre

A gothic monastery in Lisbon from the outside — Belem Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site outside the city centre

Belém is packed with some of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, and several of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s where Portugal’s Age of Exploration really comes to life.

Here’s what not to miss:

Jerónimos Monastery: Stunning gothic architecture and centuries of history
Torre de Belém: A riverside fortress that once protected the city from invaders
Padrão dos Descobrimentos: The giant monument celebrating Portugal’s explorers

You can reach Belém by tram, train, or bike (there’s a flat riverside path that’s lovely on a sunny day). It’s also a great area to grab a pastel de nata, especially from the original Pastéis de Belém bakery.

6. Eat a Pastel de Nata (Yes, There Are Vegan Options!)

A vegan pastel de nata on a plate in front of a poster of one — You have to try Pastel de Nata when you’re in Portugal

You can’t visit Lisbon without trying a pastel de nata. These little custard tarts are flaky, creamy, slightly caramelized on top, and extremely delicious.

The original recipe is a closely guarded secret, and while the classic version contains eggs and dairy, you can absolutely find delicious vegan versions in Lisbon too. I’ve included my favorite spots in this Vegan Lisbon Guide.

7. Visit the National Pantheon

Front view of the National Pantheon in Lisbon, Portugal, with its grand baroque architecture and domed roof under a partly cloudy sky. A group of people stands on the wide stone staircase leading up to the entrance, while several colorful tuk-tuks are parked in the foreground.

Often overlooked by first-time visitors, the National Pantheon is one of Lisbon’s most beautiful and peaceful monuments. Located in the Alfama district, it’s the final resting place of many notable Portuguese figures, including Vasco da Gama.

The building itself is stunning, with its white domed roof and marble interior. But the real highlight? The rooftop terrace. Climb to the top for panoramic views over the river and surrounding rooftops, it’s surprisingly quiet up there.

If you’re visiting on a Tuesday or Saturday, you’ll find the bustling Feira da Ladra flea market just around the corner. Strolling through is one of the most unique things to do in Lisbon.

🛺 Book your electro TukTuk tour now! Exploring by TukTuk is super popular in Lisbon

8. Spend an Afternoon at LX Factory

A building from the outside with street art in pieces on it in the LX Factory Lisbon

A unique bookshop inside LX Factory in Lisbon, Portugal, featuring towering bookshelves filled with books from floor to ceiling. A white sculpture of a bicycle with wings hangs from the ceiling, adding an artistic touch to the industrial-style space. Two people walk down a metal staircase, surrounded by books and creative signage, contributing to the shop’s vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.

Tucked beneath the 25 de Abril Bridge, LX Factory is a former industrial complex turned creative hub, and it’s one of Lisbon’s coolest spots.

You’ll find everything from indie bookstores and art galleries to quirky shops, cafés, and rooftop bars. It’s perfect for browsing, grabbing lunch, or just soaking up the artsy, laid-back vibe. If it’s raining, there are plenty of indoor options as well.

Don’t miss Ler Devagar, one of Lisbon’s most photogenic bookstores, housed in an old printing press.

9. Visit a Museum (Perfect for Rainy Days)

Lisbon has some genuinely unique museums, and they’re a great way to dive deeper into Portuguese culture, especially if the weather turns. Two great picks for first-time visitors:

Fado Museum: A small but engaging museum dedicated to Portugal’s iconic music style. It’s located right in Alfama and gives helpful context before you hear live Fado for yourself.
National Tile Museum (Museu do Azulejo): A beautiful and surprisingly peaceful museum housed in a former convent. It tells the story of Portugal’s famous ceramic tiles with displays that are more artistic than academic.

10. Take a Day Trip

Colorful view of Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal, with its vibrant yellow, red, and lavender towers rising above lush green trees at sunset. The sky is painted with dramatic hues of pink, purple, and gold, adding a magical backdrop to the Romanticist castle's whimsical architecture. — The famous Pena Palace in Sintra

A lighthouse in the distance, in the front you can see a palm tree, rocks and the ocean — The famous Pena Palace in Sintra

Lisbon is amazing, but some of the best experiences lie just outside the city. If you have extra time, taking a day trip is 100% worth it. Here are some day trip ideas:

Sintra: The most popular day trip option, known for its colorful palaces, misty forests, and fairytale vibes. Highlights are Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira. But keep in mind, because it’s so popular, it gets very crowded, especially during peak season.
Cascais: A charming seaside town perfect for a beach day or quick swim. It’s one of the closest and easiest to reach by train.
Óbidos: A tiny medieval town with cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and a picturesque castle wall you can walk along.
Évora: A UNESCO World Heritage town full of Roman ruins, cork trees, and the famous Chapel of Bones.

For more ideas and how to get there, check out my full guide to the best day trips from Lisbon.

🏰🌊 Book a small group tour to see Sintra and Cascais in one day!

Where to Stay in Lisbon as a First-Time Visitor

If it’s your first time in Lisbon, I recommend staying in or near Baixa or Chiado. These central neighbourhoods put you within walking distance of most major sights, have great public transport connections, and are full of restaurants, shops, and cafés.

You’ll be right in the heart of the city, which is perfect for your first visit to Lisbon.

Want more options? I’ve written a full guide on where to stay in Lisbon, with a pros and cons list for each area, including Bairro Alto, Alfama, and more, so you can find the one that fits your travel style best.

🛺 Don’t forget to book your TukTuk now! The easiest and most comfortable way to explore Lisbon!

Tina Riegelnegg

Tina Riegelnegg is the founder of Veganderlust. She's a vegan with wanderlust, who shares tips and stories from her travels to 31 countries as a vegan minimalist. After 2.5 years of full-time travel with just a personal item-sized bag, she’s now based in Vienna, helping fellow travelers explore the world with ease and compassion.