Lisbon travel guide
Lisbon spreads over steep hills above the Tagus River, with tiled façades, viewpoints called miradouros and historic trams. Belém's monuments, the old Alfama quarter and day trips to Sintra and Cascais fill most first visits.
Best time to visit Lisbon
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) bring mild, mostly sunny weather and smaller crowds than summer.
July and August are hot and busy, and the beaches along the Cascais and Caparica coasts fill up. Winter is mild but wetter, with the most rain from November to February.
Getting to Lisbon
Lisbon Airport (LIS) is close to the city and is linked to the centre by the red metro line, buses and taxis. There are direct flights from several US cities, including New York and Boston.
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Getting around
Metro and trams
Four metro lines cover the centre. Historic Tram 28 climbs through Graça and Alfama, and Tram 15 runs along the river to Belém. A rechargeable Navegante card works on metro, trams, buses and ferries.
On foot
The centre is walkable but very hilly, with cobbled streets that get slippery. Funiculars such as Glória and Bica, and the Santa Justa Lift, save some climbs.
Day trips
Trains from Rossio station reach Sintra in about 40 minutes, and trains from Cais do Sodré run along the coast to Cascais.
Top things to do in Lisbon
1. Belém: Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower
Two UNESCO-listed Manueline landmarks by the river, plus the Monument to the Discoveries and the original pastéis de nata bakery nearby.
See tours & prices ›2. Alfama and São Jorge Castle
Wander the oldest quarter's alleys up to the castle walls for views over the rooftops and river. Evenings bring fado music in small taverns.
See tours & prices ›3. Sintra day trip
Romantic palaces and gardens in wooded hills, including the colourful Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle.
See tours & prices ›4. Cascais and the coast
A seaside town with beaches and a coastal path, an easy train ride from the city.
See tours & prices ›Practical tips
- Wear shoes with good grip: Lisbon's polished cobblestones are steep and slippery.
- Tram 28 gets very crowded; ride early in the morning and watch your belongings.
- Many restaurants put bread, olives and cheese on the table; they are charged if you eat them, so send them back if you don't want them.
Lisbon travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit Lisbon?
March to May and September to October offer warm weather with fewer crowds than July and August.
How many days do you need in Lisbon?
Three days covers the main neighbourhoods and Belém. Add a day for Sintra and another for Cascais or the coast.
How do you get from Lisbon airport to the city?
The red metro line runs from the airport to the centre with one change, and taxis and ride-hailing cars take about 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic.