25+ Best Things to Do in Lisbon in 2025: A Solo, Couples & Families Guide

For Solo Travelers, Couples, and Families — Day & Night, Free & Paid

Welcome to Lisboa: Your Unforgettable Adventure Awaits

Lisbon isn’t just a city; it’s a feeling. It’s the sound of Fado music drifting from an Alfama alleyway, the warm, buttery crunch of your first pastél de nata, and the stunning gasp of sunlight hitting the red-tiled roofs from a hilltop viewpoint (miradouro).

As Europe’s second-oldest capital, Lisbon effortlessly blends ancient history with a vibrant, modern energy. This Best Things to Do in Lisbon in 2025 guide is crafted to be your ultimate companion, moving beyond the basic checklist to give you a true taste of Portuguese soul. We’ve packed it with practical tips, hidden gems, and everything you need to plan your perfect trip.

Let’s discover the magic of Lisboa together.

Download PDF Version: 25+ Things to Do in Lisbon in 2025

First Things First: Your Lisbon Trip Planner

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March-May) & Fall (Sept-Oct): The absolute sweet spot. Pleasant temperatures, sunny days, and smaller crowds.
• Summer (June-Aug): Hot, busy, and festive. Expect higher prices and queues, but a fantastic energy.
• Winter (Nov-Feb): Mild compared to the rest of Europe, with fewer tourists. You might get rain, but you’ll have the city more to yourself.

Getting Around Lisbon:

• Walking: The best way to explore the central neighborhoods. Be prepared for lots of hills.
• Public Transport: The metro is clean and efficient for longer distances. The iconic Tram 28 is a moving landmark, but beware of pickpockets.
• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Bolt are widely available and very affordable.
• The Lisboa Card: If you plan on visiting many museums and using transport, this card can offer significant savings. Calculate your itinerary first to see if it’s worth it.

How Many Days Do You Need?

• 3-4 Days: Enough to see the major highlights at a good pace.
• 5-7 Days: Perfect to explore deeper, take a day trip to Sintra or Cascais, and truly relax into the Lisbon vibe.

A. Top 10 Must-Do Things in Lisbon For Couple in 2025

Here are the best experiences to have in Lisbon this year:

1. Explore Alfama – The Soul of Lisbon

Wander through cobbled lanes, discover hidden courtyards, and hear the faint echoes of Fado music in this historic district.

Don’t miss:

• Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)
• Miradouro de Santa Luzia
• Fado Museum

Cost: Free to explore, entry fees vary (~€5–€10).

2. Ride the Iconic Tram 28

For just €3.10, Tram 28 takes you through Graca, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela — all major historic neighborhoods.

👉 Tip: Buy a 24-hour transit pass (~€7.00) for unlimited rides on trams, buses, and elevators.

3. Visit the Belém District

Home to Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, Belém features:

• Jerónimos Monastery (€10–€12)
• Torre de Belém (Belém Tower)
• Pastéis de Belém – Famous custard tarts!

📍 Perfect for: History lovers, couples, and families.

4. Discover Lisbon’s Oceanário (Oceanarium)

Located in Parque das Nações, this is one of Europe’s best aquariums — ideal for families and solo nature lovers.

• Tickets: €25–€29
• Book via oceanario.pt

5. Watch the Sunset from a Miradouro

Lisbon’s viewpoints (“miradouros”) are legendary. Some top picks:

• Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
• Miradouro de Santa Catarina
• Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara

Cost: Free

6. Eat at Time Out Market

A trendy food hall where Lisbon’s top chefs and vendors serve local dishes, wine, pastries, and fusion cuisine.

🕐 Best for lunch, snacks, or a social dinner.

7. Visit Castelo de São Jorge (St. George’s Castle)

Enjoy sweeping city views from the castle ruins.

• Entry: ~€10
• Ideal during late afternoon before sunset

8. Get Lost at LX Factory

An artsy complex in a converted industrial site — full of creative shops, bookstores, graffiti, and cafés.

Free entry | Great for Instagrammers & shoppers.

9. Take a Day Trip to Sintra

Explore Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and lush gardens in this UNESCO town just 40 minutes from Lisbon by train.

• Round-trip train: ~€5
• Entry fees: ~€14–€18 (Pena Palace)

10. Experience Fado Music Live

Head to Alfama or Bairro Alto for an authentic Fado night. Many bars offer live music with dinner for around €25–€40.

B. Most Popular Twelve Things to Do in Lisbon District for Family

Planning a trip to Lisbon? You’re in luck! Lisbon District offers exciting tours, day trips, and unique local experiences for every kind of traveler. Here’s a quick guide to the best-rated and most-loved activities you can enjoy in and around Lisbon, with helpful info on prices, reviews, duration, and what to expect.

Best Day Trips from Lisbon

11. Sintra, Pena Palace & Cascais – Small Group Tour

• Duration: 8 hours
• Rating: 9.8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (125+ reviews)
• Price: $101 (per adult)
  This full-day trip takes you to fairytale-like Sintra, the iconic Pena Palace, and the beautiful coastal town of Cascais. It’s a top-rated tour for first-time visitors.

12. Sintra, Pena, Regaleira & Cabo da Roca Combo

• Duration: 9.5 hours
• Rating: 8.8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (18 reviews)
• Price: $29
  A budget-friendly way to explore the highlights of Sintra, including the mystical Quinta da Regaleira and dramatic cliffs at Cabo da Roca.

13. Three Cities in One Day: Porto, Nazaré & Óbidos

• Duration: 12 hours
• Rating: 9.0/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (91 reviews)
• Price: $129
  Explore three charming Portuguese cities from Lisbon in one day: historic Porto, seaside Nazaré, and medieval Óbidos.

14. Sintra, Pena Palace & Cascais Full-Day Tour

• Duration: 8.5 hours
• Rating: 9.6/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (72 reviews)
• Price: $64
  A classic sightseeing tour covering the top landmarks near Lisbon. Great value for travelers wanting a bit of everything.

Private & Custom Tours in Lisbon

15. Exclusive All-Inclusive Tuk Tuk Tour

• Duration: 5 hours
• Rating: N/A
• Price: $58
  A fun and flexible way to explore Lisbon’s historic streets with a local guide — perfect for small groups or families.

16. Private Electric Tuk Tuk Tour (Half-Day)

• Duration: 3 hours
• Rating: 9.6/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (24 reviews)
• Price: $99
  See Lisbon’s highlights like Alfama and Bairro Alto in an eco-friendly tuk tuk — your private guide shares the local stories behind each stop.

17. Private Day Trip to Sintra & Cascais

• Duration: 8.5 hours
• Rating: 9.8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (37 reviews)
• Price: $175
  Enjoy a personalized tour through palaces, mountains, and seaside towns with your own guide — ideal for couples or small groups.

18. Lisbon to Porto with Scenic Stops

• Duration: 3+ hours
• Rating: N/A
• Price: $281
  A comfortable and scenic transfer tour from Lisbon to Porto, with cultural stops along the way.

Cruises, Food & Entertainment

19. Tagus River Sailing Tour

• Duration: 1 hour
• Rating: 9.6/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (18 reviews)
• Price: $23
  Relax and enjoy river views of Lisbon’s famous landmarks from the water. Great for sunsets or daytime cruises.

20. Tapas & Drinks + Live Fado Music

• Duration: 3 hours
• Rating: 9.8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (9 reviews)
• Price: $59
  Taste traditional Portuguese tapas, sip local wine, and enjoy an unforgettable Fado performance in an authentic setting.

21. Lisbon Sunset Cruise with Snacks

• Duration: 2 hours
• Rating: 7.6/10 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆) (37 reviews)
• Price: $35
  A relaxing cruise with a drink in hand — watch Lisbon glow at sunset from the deck.

Hop-On Hop-Off Experience

22. Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Combo

• Duration: All day
• Rating: 6.8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (28 reviews)
• Price: $33
  Great for visitors who want to explore at their own pace. Includes stops at major tourist attractions around the city.

C. Five Things to do in Lisbon for Families With Kids– Fun and Educational

Lisbon is perfect for kids — safe, sunny, and filled with parks and museums.

Top kid-friendly activities:

23. LEGO® Exhibition Lisbon

24. Royal Marine Boat Tours

25. Pavilhão do Conhecimento – Ciência Viva (Science Museum)

26. Jardins da Água – Water Gardens Lisbon

27. Lisbon Story Centre

Kids’ Friendly Attractions Location on Map:

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Best Things to Do in Lisbon at Night

Lisbon’s nightlife ranges from mellow and magical to wild and youthful.

👫 For Couples

• Sunset at a miradouro with wine
• Dinner in Chiado or Alfama
• Rooftop cocktails at Sky Bar Lisboa or Park Bar
• Fado show with dinner

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 For Friends & Adults

• Night out in Bairro Alto
• Pub crawl through Pink Street
• Late-night eats at Time Out Market
• Jazz at Hot Clube de Portugal

🌊 Romantic Night Walks

• Walk along the Tagus River promenade
• Visit Praça do Comércio lit up at night
• Take a night tram ride with fewer crowds

Free Things to Do in Lisbon

Traveling on a budget? Lisbon offers plenty of free activities:

A Foodie’s Guide to Lisbon: What & Where to Eat

Portuguese cuisine is a highlight of any trip.

Must-Try Foods:

• Pastél de Nata: The iconic custard tart. (Already covered, but it’s that important!).
• Bifana: A simple, delicious pork sandwich marinated in garlic and white wine. Go to Casa das Bifanas in Baixa.
• Sardinhas Assadas: Grilled sardines, especially popular during the Santo Antonio festivals in June.
• Ginjinha: A sweet cherry liqueur, often served in a chocolate cup. Shot one back at A Ginjinha, a tiny stand near Rossio Square.

Where to Eat:

• Cervejaria Ramiro: The legendary temple of seafood. Be prepared to wait, but the garlic shrimp and giant tiger prawns are worth it.
• Ponto Final: For the experience. This restaurant in Almada has an incredible view of Lisbon across the Tagus River. You need to take a ferry to get there.
• Mercado de Campo de Ourique: A less touristy alternative to the Time Out Market, with excellent food stalls loved by locals.

6 Best Hotels to Stay in Lisbon (2025 Guide)

Looking for a place to stay in Lisbon that’s comfortable, well-rated, and close to everything? Below are some top-rated hotels in central Lisbon, ideal for travelers who want great locations, reliable service, and modern amenities.

1. TURIM Avenida da Liberdade Hotel

📍 Location: Santo Antonio, Lisbon
📏 Distance: 1.4 km from downtown
🚇 Subway Access: Yes
⭐ Rating: 8.4/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Very Good)
🗣️ Reviews: 614 reviews
📍 Location Score: 9.3/10

This modern 4-star hotel is located on Lisbon’s famous Avenida da Liberdade, perfect for shopping and sightseeing. The hotel is fully non-smoking, and rooms come with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a minibar.

2. Eurostars Lisboa Baixa

📍 Location: Santa Maria Maior, Lisbon
📏 Distance: 500 meters from downtown
🚇 Subway Access: Yes
🌱 Eco-Friendly: Sustainability certified
⭐ Rating: 9.1/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Wonderful)
🗣️ Reviews: 1,839 reviews
📍 Location Score: 9.7/10

Right in the heart of Lisbon, this hotel offers sleek, modern rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. It also features a fitness center and cozy lounge area — ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring the city.

3. TURIM Boulevard Hotel

📍 Location: Santo Antonio, Lisbon
📏 Distance: 0.9 km from downtown
🚇 Subway Access: Yes
⭐ Rating: 8.8/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Excellent)
🗣️ Reviews: 4,410 reviews
📍 Location Score: 9.6/10

A 5-star hotel offering luxury amenities like an outdoor pool, rooftop terrace, restaurant, and 24-hour room service. A great choice for travelers who want comfort and a prime city location.

4. Eurostars Das Letras

📍 Location: Santo Antonio, Lisbon
📏 Distance: 1.1 km from downtown
🚇 Subway Access: Yes
🌱 Eco-Friendly: Sustainability certified
⭐ Rating: 8.7/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Excellent)
🗣️ Reviews: 2,508 reviews

Set in historic Lisbon, this hotel features modern design, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi in all rooms. It’s near the Lisbon Botanic Gardens, making it a peaceful yet central stay.

5. TURIM Terreiro do Paço Hotel

📍 Location: Santa Maria Maior, Lisbon
📏 Distance: 0.6 km from downtown
🚇 Subway Access: Yes
⭐ Rating: 8.5/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Very Good)
🗣️ Reviews: 5,159 reviews
📍 Location Score: 9.7/10

Just steps from Commerce Square and the Tagus River, this 4-star hotel is perfectly located for sightseeing. You’re within walking distance to Chiado, Rossio, and metro stations.

6. Vincci Baixa Hotel

📍 Location: Santa Maria Maior, Lisbon
📏 Distance: 0.6 km from downtown
🚇 Subway Access: Yes
🌱 Eco-Friendly: Sustainability certified
⭐ Rating: 8.7/10 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Excellent)
🗣️ Reviews: 2,834 reviews
📍 Location Score: 9.7/10

Located in Lisbon’s Baixa district, this stylish hotel is only 150 meters from Praça do Comércio and all major public transport links. Enjoy elegant rooms, a cozy bar, and a great in-house restaurant.

What to Do in Lisbon for 3 Days – Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

Planning a 3-day trip to Lisbon? Whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, or with family, the Portuguese capital has something for everyone. From historic landmarks and scenic viewpoints to vibrant neighborhoods and delicious food — Lisbon is full of unforgettable experiences.

Here’s a day-by-day Lisbon itinerary with the best things to do in 3 days!

Day 1: Discover Historic Lisbon

📍 Morning: Explore Baixa & Alfama

• Begin your journey at Praça do Comércio, one of Lisbon’s largest and most iconic squares.
• Walk up to the Arco da Rua Augusta and enjoy panoramic city views.
• Head to Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. Stroll through its charming alleyways and stop by the Sé Cathedral.

📍 Afternoon: Tram 28 & Miradouros

• Hop on the famous Tram 28 — it’s the perfect way to explore the city’s hills and sights.
• Stop at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or Miradouro de Santa Luzia for stunning views.

📍 Evening: Time Out Market

• Head to the lively Time Out Market for dinner. From local bites to international flavors, it’s a must-visit for food lovers.

Day 2: Monuments, Museums & River Views

📍 Morning: Belém Highlights

• Visit the Jerónimos Monastery — a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Walk along the river to see the Belém Tower and Monument to the Discoveries.
• Don’t miss the iconic Pastéis de Belém (custard tarts) from the original bakery.

📍 Afternoon: MAAT & LX Factory

• Explore the MAAT Museum — a modern art and tech space with amazing architecture.
• Visit LX Factory, a creative hotspot full of street art, bookstores, cafes, and boutique shops.

📍 Evening: Sunset by the Tagus River

• Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise on the Tagus River or grab drinks at a riverside bar.

Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra or Cascais

☀️ Option 1: Sintra – A Fairytale Escape

• Take a 40-minute train from Lisbon to Sintra.
• Explore the colorful Pena Palace, mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, and ancient Moorish Castle.
• Return to Lisbon by evening for a casual dinner.

Option 2: Cascais – Beach & Coastline

• If you prefer the beach, take the train to Cascais.
• Relax by the coast, visit Boca do Inferno, and walk along the scenic seaside promenade.

5 Best Things to Do in Lisbon in 2025 Review Guide:

Bonus Free Things to Do in Lisbon

You don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy Lisbon! Here are a few free attractions:

• Miradouros (viewpoints) like São Pedro de Alcântara
• Largo das Portas do Sol – stunning river views
• Jardins da Água (Water Gardens) – peaceful and great for families
• Lisbon Story Centre (free with Lisboa Card)
• Walking through Alfama and Bairro Alto – charming streets, music, and local vibes

Lisbon Trip Cost Estimate – 3 Days

Smart Day Trips from Lisbon

If you have time, these nearby gems are unmissable.

• Sintra: A fairy-tale town of pastel-colored palaces and lush forests. Visit the Pena Palace (book tickets far in advance!) and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira with its initiation wells.
• Cascais: A charming, upscale seaside fishing town. Enjoy the sandy beaches, stroll the pedestrianized center, and visit the Boca do Inferno (“Hell’s Mouth”) cliff formation.
• Évora: A journey into the heart of the Alentejo region (about 1.5 hours by car). This medieval walled city features a well-preserved Roman Temple and the chilling Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones).

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Wear Good Shoes: Lisbon’s cobblestone streets are beautiful but brutal on unsupportive footwear.
• Beware of Pickpockets: As in any major European city, be vigilant in crowded trams, metro stations, and tourist areas.
• The Hills are No Joke: The hills are steep. Use the trams, funiculars (Gloria, Bica, Lavra), and elevador (Santa Justa Lift) to save your legs.
• Learn a Few Words: “Olá” (Hello), “Por favor” (Please), “Obrigado” (male)/”Obrigada” (female) (Thank you). A little Portuguese goes a long way.

Getting Around Lisbon

• Metro & Tram: Fast and reliable. Viva Viagem card offers cheap daily travel.
• Taxis/Uber/Bolt: Affordable, especially at night.
• Trains: Easy access to Sintra, Cascais, and beaches.

FAQs: Best Things to Do in Lisbon

Q: Is Lisbon expensive to visit?

A: No. Lisbon is one of Europe’s most affordable capitals. You can enjoy it on €40–€80/day including transport, food, and attractions.

Q: What’s the best month to visit Lisbon?

A: April–June and September–October. Warm weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

Q: Are credit cards widely accepted?

A: Yes, but always carry some cash for markets and small cafés.

Q: Can I visit Lisbon without speaking Portuguese?

A: Absolutely. Most locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.

Conclusion: You’re Going to Fall in Love

Lisbon has a way of capturing hearts. It’s a city that asks you to slow down, savor each moment, and appreciate the beauty in a tiled wall, a stunning view, or a simple, perfect custard tart.

Use this guide as your starting point, but leave room for your own discoveries. Get lost, talk to locals, and let the city’s rhythm guide you. Boa viagem! (Have a good trip!)

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