Lisbon holidays let you live it up in one of Europe’s oldest capitals – a place of gothic splendour blessed with character, charm and plenty of sunshine.
Whether you’re travelling with your family, on your honeymoon or enjoying a city break, you’ll find plenty to see and do in the colourful Portuguese capital.
Here you can uncover history around every corner – down the cobblestone alleys, in the fascinating architecture and within grand, imposing churches. Explore it all on foot or by taking the quirky yellow tram.
For travellers seeking adventure, this is a place for making the most of Portugal’s sunshine. Head to the beach towns of Cascais and Estoril to surf, sail and kayak. Spend a day in the fishing community of Sesimbra for delicious seafood and a picture-perfect coastline.
Plan a holiday to Lisbon and dip into the rich past and mesmerising present of this enchanting city.
From wandering through Lisbon Botanical Garden to exploring the Castelo de São Jorge, and hitting a beach, there’s plenty to see and do on a Lisbon holiday.
Completed in the 16th century, Belem Tower is one of Lisbon’s most distinctive buildings. Standing tall on the northern bank of the Tagus river, the tower is a much-loved example of Portugal’s elaborate Manueline style of architecture.
Inside you’ll find religious statues and other important objects from King Manuel I’s reign.
This fortification was famously the last sight of home that Portuguese explorers enjoyed as they set sail on the Atlantic Ocean.
During your holiday in Lisbon you simply must visit the gorgeous beaches that have helped make the city a favourite European getaway.
Adventure lovers will want to head to Guincho Beach – you might recognise it from the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
There’s a reason this spot was chosen for the movie – the sand is golden, the ocean is blue and the surf is strong. Adraga Beach is another popular option nearby.
Lisbon’s culinary scene is booming. With a string of Michelin-starred restaurants plying their trade in the city – including Loco, Alma or LAB by Sergi Arola – there’s no shortage of local and international dishes to sample during your stay here.
Bacalhau (dried and salted cod fish) can be ordered at almost any restaurant.
Lisbon’s coastal setting means there is plenty of other seafood to try – octopus, shrimp, sardines and clams are staples on most menus.
If you’re in the mood to party, head to Rua Nova do Carvalho – better known as Lisbon’s Pink Street. This thoroughfare in the Cais do Sodré area has become one of the hippest nightlife hangouts in the city.
Popular spots here include the MusicBox, where you can watch local bands strut their stuff on stage. Across the road you’ll find Pink Wine Point – a cosy bar with a great atmosphere.
Don’t leave until you’ve visited Pensão Amor, one of the most popular clubs in Lisbon.
Get a different view of Lisbon’s streets by taking an old-style tram ride. The city’s iconic 28E trams have been trundling their way through its narrow alleys and cobbled roads for decades.
A 45-minute ride will take you from Praca Martim Moniz to the historic neighbourhood of Campo de Ourique.
Sights to look out for include the Estrela Basilica and Lisbon’s magnificent cathedral. Tram 28E services run from early in the morning until late at night.
If you’re going on holiday to Lisbon – one of Europe’s oldest cities – why not stay in its oldest and most picturesque neighbourhood?
Alfama’s architecture offers an intriguing insight into how the city looked before the earthquake of 1755.
Nestled between Castelo de São Jorge and the Tagus river, this area provides stunning views across the city.
Its narrow alleyways are also a joy to explore.
Lisbon’s five-star hotels will give you the VIP treatment from the moment you arrive, until the second you leave. The Avenida Palace is one of the city’s top accommodation choices, with a prime position close to Lisbon Cathedral.
The Altis Belem Hotel and Spa has individually decorated rooms, outdoor and indoor pools, and a fine dining restaurant.
Chiado is Lisbon’s hippest and most happening shopping district. Its central location, close to the city’s main sights, makes it an excellent holiday base.
If you want to take a guided walking tour to learn more about Lisbon’s rich local culture, they often start here in Chiado.
You’re spoilt for choice for places to stay – the Lisboa Carmo Hotel is one of the best hotels in the area.
The currency in Lisbon is the euro, which was adopted by Portugal in 1999. There are plenty of ATMs and credit cards are widely accepted.
It’s easy to get around Lisbon’s city centre on foot. Buses and trams are another option – plus, taxis are very reasonably priced.
Portuguese is the official language in Lisbon but Mirandese is also widely spoken. Many people speak fluent English in the main tourist areas.
Liberty Day on 25 April celebrates the 1974 revolution and the following year’s free elections that made Portugal a democracy. Portugal Day on 10 June is a national day of celebration in honour of writer Luís de Camões.
Much like the city’s eclectic architecture, Lisbon’s cuisine is a vibrant mix of various cultural influences.
Each dish is full of rich flavours and aromas that will make your mouth water. If you’re a foodie, a trip to Lisbon is sure to delight your taste buds.
Don’t leave without tasting ovos mexidos, a Portuguese take on scrambled eggs, and the grilled sardines which Portugal is famous for.
Bacalhau is a must-try too, a salted cod dish with hundreds of variations. Egg tarts known as pastel de nata make for delicious puddings or snacks.
Encompassing food, architecture, art and dance, Portuguese culture is a melting pot of influences.
Lisbon’s historical landmarks are striking evidence of its eventful past – from Portugal’s era of empire and exploration, to Moorish and Roman invasions.
You’ll see well-maintained palaces, castles and churches which date back hundreds of years. The 19th-century Pena Palace is a must-see spot that’s just a 30-minute drive from Lisbon.
The city buzzes with events, festivals, live music and other cultural celebrations that draw travellers from across the globe. A holiday in Lisbon will certainly open you up to Portugal’s passion for creativity.
Lisbon’s museums are the perfect place to discover more about Portugal’s history, culture and identity. Start at the National Museum of Ancient Art, which is home to works by the likes of Nuno Goncalves, Jorge Afonso and Vasco Fernandes.
From there, head to the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, where you’ll find masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rubens and Rodin.
For something slightly different, seek out Lisbon Military Museum or immerse yourself in the world of puppetry at the Museu da Marioneta.
The Alcântara waterfront district’s Museum of the Orient houses a collection of Asian art – including masks, costumes and Japanese screens.
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