Should You Visit Lisbon?

Is Lisbon worth visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting this city for three to seven days because of the many great activities. During our first trip to Lisbon in the fall of 2022, we fell in love with its dramatic views and charming streets. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. Lisbon is a beautiful and historic capital city that has dramatic hills and a scenic coastal setting. The old city is filled with pastel buildings and wandering streets. There are also tuk tuk tours and many amazing cafes that you can enjoy. It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in Travel and Leisure's Best Cities in Europe.

Lisbon, Portugal

Reasons to Visit Lisbon

Museums
World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Food
There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Nightlife
It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Music
The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Historical Sights
The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Shopping
For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Beaches
The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Lisbon worth visiting in the Summer?

Summer is the high season for travel in Lisbon, so expect more visitors and higher prices. This destination is quite touristy, so in the high season it's busier than usual. You'll see larger crowds and longer lines, as well as higher prices. On the other hand, there's plenty to see and do at this time of year because everything is open.

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 23°C (73°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 28°C (82°F).

The activities of the city are numerous, and this is a great time of year to explore all of them. From family-friendly attractions to romantic getaways, as well as budget-friendly things to do, there's something for everyone. Famous landmarks, museums, tours, and more are all available. You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to lounge on the beach, browse through museums, and discover the big city activities. Also, you can check out the historic old town and the nightlife.

Is Lisbon worth visiting in the Autumn?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Lisbon. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you'll still come across plenty of touriss. However, the prices tend to be a little cheaper.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 19°C (66°F).

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. During this season it's fun to experience the gorgeous scenery, the historic old town, and the famous sights and museums. Also, you'll be able to soak up the big city atmosphere and listen to some live music.

Is Lisbon worth visiting in the Winter?

Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during winter, and temperatures hover around 12°C (53°F).

The low season for travel in Lisbon is during the winter. This destination is quite touristy, but in the low season you'll see fewer crowds and much better prices.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. This is a great time of year to browse the museums, enjoy a meal at a restaurant, and admire the historic sights. Also, you can experience the nightlife, the live music, and the big city activities.

Is Lisbon worth visiting in the Spring?

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Lisbon. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you'll still come across plenty of touriss. However, the prices tend to be a little cheaper.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 16°C (60°F).

The city this time of year is absolutely beautiful. Admire the gardens, parks, and fantastic architecture, too. Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to find the best deals at the shops, spend time at the museums, and take in the beautiful scenery. Also, you can browse around the old town, listen to some live music, and enjoy the evening activities.

Related

What is Lisbon most famous for?

Lisbon is most famous for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. People visit this impressive city for its great museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping. Many people love the beaches, too. It is often described as colorful, vibrant, stunning, and picturesque.

What is the most famous sight in Lisbon?

The most popular sight in Lisbon is Castelo de São Jorge. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Lisbon on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Castelo de São Jorge and other attractions here.

How touristy is Lisbon? Is it a popular city to visit?

Lisbon is a popular city for tourists and travelers. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Sintra Private Tour from Lisbon Full-Day: $120
• PRIVATE Unforgettable Full Day Tour to Sintra from Lisbon: $168
• Tuk Tuk Tour in Lisbon's Old Town - Tram 28: $164
• Wonderful experience along the Tagus river: $44
• 2 Hour Tuk Tuk Tour of the Old Town it will make you fall in love: $82
• Private tuk tuk tour in old city Lisbon: $164
• Sintra, Pena Palace, Cape Roca & Cascais Small-Group Tour: $82
• Lisbon 4 Foodies Tour - From Street Food to Awarded Chefs’ Portuguese Delicacies: $163

How long should I spend in Lisbon?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Lisbon is at least three or as many as seven days. Since Lisbon has a variety of activities such as shopping, museums, dining, and nightlife, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Lisbon?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Lisbon?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Lisbon?.