Lisbon City Guide

General Information / Guide

Lisbon, often referred to as the "City of Seven Hills," is the captivating capital of Portugal. It is renowned for its scenic vistas, historical architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Lisbon’s blend of traditional charm and contemporary amenities makes it a popular destination for travelers from around the world. Known for its pastel-colored buildings, melancholic fado music, and the historic tram system, Lisbon offers a unique experience that combines old-world charm with modern living.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Lisbon experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The best time to visit Lisbon is either from March to May or September to October when the weather is pleasantly warm, and the crowds are fewer. Summers can be very hot, often exceeding 30°C, while winters are generally mild, with temperatures rarely falling below 10°C.

How to Get There

Lisbon Portela Airport, also known as Humberto Delgado Airport, is the main gateway to Lisbon, located just 7 kilometers from the city center. It serves a range of international and domestic flights. Visitors can easily reach the city center via metro, bus, or taxi. For those looking for a direct route, the Aerobus provides a convenient shuttle service linking the airport to key areas in Lisbon.

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

Lisbon is a food lover’s paradise, offering a rich mix of traditional Portuguese cuisine influenced by its seafaring history. Must-try dishes include bacalhau (salt cod), sardines, and pastéis de nata (custard tarts). For an authentic local experience, dine at a neighborhood tasca to enjoy petiscos (Portuguese tapas) or visit Time Out Market, a food hall that gathers some of the city’s most loved restaurants under one roof.

Important Places / Places to Visit

Belém Tower: A UNESCO World Heritage site that symbolizes Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

Jeronimos Monastery: Another UNESCO site, known for its stunning Manueline architecture.

Alfama: The oldest district in Lisbon, known for its narrow streets, traditional fado houses, and beautiful viewpoints.

Bairro Alto: A picturesque quarter known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions.

Lisbon Oceanarium: One of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe, located in the Parque das Nações.

Castle of São Jorge: Offers panoramic views of the city from its commanding position atop one of Lisbon’s highest hills.

What to Do

Explore the historic districts of Alfama and Bairro Alto on foot to truly appreciate their charm. Visit the iconic Belém Tower and Jeronimos Monastery to delve into Lisbon’s rich maritime history. Take a ride on Tram 28 for a scenic tour of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Enjoy a night of fado music in one of the authentic venues scattered across Alfama.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Lisbon’s nightlife is lively and diverse, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. For a trendy night out, head to the bars in Bairro Alto or the sophisticated clubs in the Santos district. For a more relaxed evening, enjoy a sunset drink at a rooftop bar overlooking the cityscape.

Shopping / What to Buy

Lisbon offers a variety of shopping experiences, from high-end designer boutiques in the Chiado district to unique antique shops and bookstores in Alfama. Avenida da Liberdade is known for luxury shopping, while the Feira da Ladra, a flea market held twice a week, is perfect for those searching for vintage finds and local handicrafts.

Festivals/ Events

March: Lisbon Fashion Week

June: Festas de Lisboa, a month-long celebration with parades, music, and sardine feasts.

October: Doclisboa, an international film festival.

November: Web Summit, one of the largest technology conferences in the world.

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

1 January: New Year’s Day

25 April: Freedom Day, celebrating the 1974 revolution.

10 June: Portugal Day

15 August: Assumption of Mary

5 October: Republic Day

1 December: Restoration of Independence

25 December: Christmas Day

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

Be prepared for hilly walks; comfortable footwear is essential.

Respect local customs, especially during your visits to religious and historical sites.

Lisbon’s weather can change quickly; it’s wise to carry a light jacket even in summer.

Transportation

Lisbon has an efficient public transportation system that includes metro, buses, trams, and ferries. The Viva Viagem card, a rechargeable ticket, offers a cost-effective way to use various modes of transport. For scenic views, take a ferry across the Tagus River or enjoy a historic tram ride on routes that wind through picturesque neighborhoods.