Lisbon travel guide
Meet LisbonLisbon weather reportGetting into LisbonTop attractions in LisbonGetting around Lisbon Where to eat in LisbonPage 2: More information on Lisbon
Meet Lisbon
Sprawled out in the Mediterranean sun, between the banks of the River Tagus and the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal’s capital city boasts natural beauty that has been attracting settlers since the Phoenicians came here in 900 BC. Today, Lisbon is an official European Capital of Culture, and draws in tourists all year round.
Evidence of Lisbon’s rich history is everywhere. Narrow medieval streets wind through the ancient Alfma district, leading you to the 10th century splendour of São Jorge castle. Vintage 19th century trams travel up the city’s steep hills, stopping off at UNESCO World heritage sites, such as the 16th century Belém Tower.
Yet the past is happily married to the present here — new multi story shopping malls compete for customers with medieval style markets, while stylish modern bars and clubs stand alongside traditional pavement cafes, creating a bustling nightlife.
As you head out towards Lisbon’s coastline, you’ll find soft sandy beaches, such as Cascais and Estoril, which are the perfect place to spend a lazy summer’s day soaking up the sun. Whether you want an exciting city break, or a relaxing beach holiday, Lisbon is an ideal destination.
Lisbon weather report
Lisbon enjoys a pleasant, mild climate all year round, making it a popular destination throughout the year. However, the city’s weather does change over the seasons, so you may find that one period of the year is particularly suited to your holiday needs.
The high-summer months of July and August are not ideal for sightseeing, as temperatures in the city centre often exceed 30 degrees during this period, which might prove rather stifling. However, along Lisbon’s coastline, the sea breeze takes the edge off the summer heat, so this is the perfect season to visit for a relaxing beach holiday.
If you plan to stroll around the city’s attractions, then spring, between March and May, is probably the best time for you to come to Lisbon. Temperatures during this period don’t usually exceed the low 20s, or fall below 11 degrees, so you shouldn’t get too hot or cold, as you soak in the city’s sights.
During the winter, from November to February, the temperature does not usually fall any lower than 10 degrees, but there can be strong winds and rain. This is not a good time to visit for a beach holiday but, provided you remember your umbrella, this is a fine time to enjoy a pleasant sightseeing break.
For the latest weather info use the Pampo weather forecast tool.
Getting into Lisbon
All international flights to Lisbon land at Aeroporto de Lisboa, which is located 7km north of the city centre.
If you haven’t booked an airport transfer service, to take you directly to your accommodation, the Aerobus is a cheap and easy way to get from the airport to central Lisbon. The bus departs every 20 minutes between 7am and 9pm, and costs €3.50. Your ticket will also be valid on buses and trams throughout the day, so this can be a very economical travel option, if you plan to spend your first day sightseeing.
Alternatively, you can take an airport taxi to the city centre for about €10, plus €1.20 for each item of luggage. If you are concerned about being short-changed by the driver, you can purchase a prepaid taxi-voucher in the airport for €18, which will take you anywhere in the city centre, and includes your luggage allowance.
Top attractions in Lisbon
If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing during your stay, then it is definitely worth purchasing a Lisboa Card from your tourist office. Valid for 1, 2, or 3 days, this card gives you free and unlimited travel on buses, trams, Elevadores, and the metro, and discounted entry to more than 80 museums and attractions.
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One of Lisbon’s most treasured monuments is the 10th century castle of São Jorge, which watches over the city from its steepest hill. You can find out what life was like in the castle through the magnificent multimedua exhibit, Olisipónia, where history is brought to life through 10ft images projected onto the castle walls. Then climb the castle’s ramparts to enjoy spetacular panoramic views of the city, before stopping off for a picnic in the the beautiful São Jorge gardens.
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Next on your itinery should be the 16th Belém Tower. Built to defend the Tagus River, and celebrate Portugal’s maritime glory, the site was once the ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. Today you can learn about the tower’s history in Belém museum, before taking some photos of this beautifully carved building.
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The Belém Cultural Centre is also well worth a visit. This newly refurbished complex showcases a variety of temporary exhibitions, and also serves as a performance space for several theatre companies. The rooftop gardens are the ideal spot to enjoy a break between sightseeing.
Getting around Lisbon
Lisbon’s public transport network is extremely efficient, so you’ll find it easy to get around the city. The recently modernised metro system is a reliable way to travel, with trains that run every 3-10 minutes. The art-deco tiles, and stunning artworks featured in the metro stations, will also add a sense of style to your journey. An initial single ticket costs €1.35, but you can recharge this ticket, so that subsequent single fares are just 80 cents each.
If you fancy enjoying a spot of sightseeing as you travel, Lisbon’s buses and trams are an ideal transport option. Special open top buses will take you around Lisbon’s major tourist attractions, while the 19th century trams enable you to enjoy a nostalgic journey though historic regions, such as the city’s Alfama district.
Passes are available, which can be used on the metro, buses and trams. These can be purchased from metro stations, on buses or trams, or from kiosks run by the Carris transport company.
Alternatively, Lisbon’s beige taxis can be easily hailed on the street. The starting charge is € 2.15, and the journey is metered from then on.
Where to eat in Lisbon
Lisbon is a global city, where you will find a rich variety of international cuisines to temp your taste buds. But, if you want to immerse yourself in Portuguese gastronomy, there are also plenty of restaurants offering truly traditional fare.
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For great baccalhau — the national Portuguese dish of salted cod — head to the Concha D'Ouro restaurant. Open until 1am, this is the perfect place to come to for a late night bite.
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If you fancy great food on a budget, Cervejaria da Trinidade is really worth checking out. Set in a beautifully tiled old monastery, this restaurant serves up huge portions of traditionally cooked seafood, and meat, at pleasingly small prices. There is also a microbrewery on site, so be sure to sample some of the house brew with your meal.
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Fans of stylish, modern dining will love Restaurant Eleven. Built on the highest of Lisbon’s hills, this eatery boasts spectacular panoramic views of the city. Contemporary art by Joana Vasconcelos compliments the smooth music and candlelight — the ideal place to come for a romantic meal for two.
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For vegetarian food with a bit of a kick, Psi is definitely the place to go. Surrounded by a charming garden, with an outside terrace, this is a great place to relax, while you enjoy cuisine with a subtle Indian flavours.