10 Unmissable Places to Visit in Lisbon: A Journey Through the Soul of the City
Lisbon is a city that hums with history, culture, and an undeniable charm that lures travelers back time and time again. Its vibrant neighborhoods, stunning viewpoints, and rich traditions offer an adventure at every corner. If you’re planning to explore this dynamic capital, here are ten unique places you absolutely must visit.
1. Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)
Belém Tower stands proudly along the waterfront, a fortress that has watched over Lisbon for centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery but also a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Climb to the top for views over the Tagus River and reflect on the seafaring adventures that once launched from this very spot.
Location: Avenida Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa
Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: €6
2. Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos)
Also in Belém, the Jerónimos Monastery is another UNESCO-listed marvel. Built in the 16th century, its grand Gothic spires and delicate cloisters are a visual feast. The monastery is the resting place of explorer Vasco da Gama, and a symbol of Portugal’s golden age of exploration.
Location: Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisboa
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: €10
3. LX Factory
If you want to see Lisbon’s creative soul, head to LX Factory, a transformed industrial complex buzzing with art, fashion, and food. Street art coats the buildings, quirky shops offer handcrafted goods, and rooftop bars provide panoramic views of the city. It’s a hub for artists and trendsetters, blending urban cool with Lisbon’s laid-back vibe.
Location: Rua Rodrigues de Faria 103, 1300-501 Lisboa
Hours: Open daily
Entry Fee: Free
4. Alfama District
Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, Alfama, is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, staircases, and viewpoints that hide centuries of stories. Its Moorish roots are visible in the architecture, and the fado music that drifts from local taverns gives Alfama a melancholic beauty. Wander aimlessly here; every turn offers a postcard-worthy scene.
Location: Alfama, Lisbon
Hours: Best explored on foot, all day
Entry Fee: Free
5. Praça do Comércio
This grand square, once the site of the Royal Palace, opens dramatically onto the Tagus River. Flanked by elegant buildings and the imposing Arco da Rua Augusta, it’s an excellent starting point for a city walk. Don’t miss a chance to sip a coffee at one of the classic cafés, watching the world flow by in Lisbon’s historic heart.
Location: Praça do Comércio, 1100-148 Lisboa
Hours: Open 24/7
Entry Fee: Free
6. National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo)
Lisbon’s iconic blue and white tiles are celebrated at the National Tile Museum, a hidden gem dedicated to the artistry of azulejos. From ancient Islamic influences to modern creations, the museum traces the history of these decorative ceramics that line the city’s walls. The stunning tiled church inside the museum is a must-see.
Location: Rua da Madre de Deus 4, 1900-312 Lisboa
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: €5
7. Miradouro de Santa Catarina
Lisbon’s many miradouros (viewpoints) are essential for taking in the city’s beauty, and Santa Catarina is one of the best. Overlooking the river and the 25 de Abril Bridge, this viewpoint is where locals and visitors alike gather to watch the sunset. It’s a relaxed, bohemian spot perfect for enjoying a glass of wine or an evening street performance.
Location: Calçada do Combro, 1200-123 Lisboa
Hours: Open 24/7
Entry Fee: Free
8. São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge)
Towering above the city, São Jorge Castle has been a defensive stronghold since Roman times. Today, it offers one of the best panoramic views of Lisbon’s red rooftops, the winding streets of Alfama, and the shimmering Tagus River. As you wander the ramparts, you can imagine the centuries of battles, sieges, and intrigue that played out here.
Location: Rua de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisboa
Hours: Open daily, 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: €10
9. Gulbenkian Museum (Museu Calouste Gulbenkian)
A true treasure trove of art, the Gulbenkian Museum houses a collection that spans 4,000 years, from ancient Egyptian relics to modern masterpieces. The museum’s peaceful gardens are an ideal place to relax after taking in works by artists like Rembrandt, Monet, and Renoir.
Location: Avenida de Berna 45A, 1067-001 Lisboa
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: €10
10. Cais do Sodré & Pink Street
Once a gritty district known for sailors and nightlife, Cais do Sodré has reinvented itself as one of Lisbon’s trendiest areas. The neon-lit Pink Street, with its vibrant bars and clubs, is a magnet for those looking to experience Lisbon after dark. By day, the Mercado da Ribeira nearby is perfect for sampling gourmet Portuguese bites at Time Out Market.
Location: Rua Nova do Carvalho, 1200-372 Lisboa
Hours: Open daily
Entry Fee: Free
From grand monuments celebrating Portugal’s explorative past to hidden corners buzzing with modern energy, Lisbon’s diverse spirit is on full display. With so much to see and experience, these ten spots are just the beginning of your adventure through the City of Light.

Gonzalo
Founder/Owner of The Lisbon Guide, one of the major blog references in Portugal, established in 2014 and receiving every year 250.000 visitors from all over the world, looking to provide the best experiences in Portugal. In partnership with Portugal Magik for all private tours and transfers across Portugal, Gonzalo loves a good seafood meal at Monte Mar Cascais, and all from Michelin Chef Avillez. Favorite Hotel in Lisbon/Portugal, Penha Longa Resort by Ritz Carlton.
For over 15 years, Gonzalo have been helping thousands of travelers yearly to plan a perfect trip to Portugal. Based in Lisbon/Cascais and working in this field for over 20 years, with multiple ongoing projects. Also an avid TripAdvisor user level 6 with more than 300.000 readers worldwide.
Many years working also as a Private Guide of Lisbon, Sintra, Fatima, Porto, Douro Valley, Evora, and other locations in Portugal.
