What to do in Lisbon

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal cityscape with colorful buildings and a prominent white dome structure.
A coastal cityscape with historic buildings, a prominent cathedral, and a clear view of the sea.
A red tram on a cobblestone street, with buildings on either side and a bridge in the background.
A panoramic view of a cityscape at sunset with a prominent bridge in the background.
A coastal town with buildings along the cliff, a sandy beach, and boats docked near the shore.

Lisbon Attractions

Let Expedia help you experience the best that Lisbon has to offer! If you’re looking for fun itinerary ideas, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Activities and Tours

Lisbon is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay, and make it a breeze to explore the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Lisbon to make sure that you enjoy your experience to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights.

Lisbon Attractions

Expedia has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. In addition to scheduling local tours, booking reservations and scoring advance event tickets, Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, all on one consolidated travel itinerary, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Lisbon.

Looking for things to do can be time consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Lisbon attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season.

Things to do

Castle in Lisbon

Day Trip to Sintra & Cascais with Admission to Pena Palace and Garden Walk

CA $130
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Day Trip to Sintra & Cascais with Admission to Pena Palace and Garden Walk
Small Group Tour to Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo Roca and Cascais

Small Group Tour to Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo Roca and Cascais

CA $113
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Small Group Tour to Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo Roca and Cascais
Belem Tower

Tour Lisbon: Belém Tower, the Cathedral & Parque das Nações

CA $125
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Tour Lisbon: Belém Tower, the Cathedral & Parque das Nações
The remarkable Pena Palace

Sintra-Cascais-Pena Palace 8-People Small Group Tour from Lisbon

CA $97
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Sintra-Cascais-Pena Palace 8-People Small Group Tour from Lisbon
Sintra, Pena Palace and Cascais Full Day Tour from Lisbon

Sintra, Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira & Cascais Group Tour

CA $109
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Sintra, Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira & Cascais Group Tour
City Sightseeing Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Optional Extras

CA $62
per adult
City Sightseeing Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour & Optional Extras
Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour with Optional Bus Tour Combos

Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Combos

CA $45
per adult
Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Combos
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Top places to visit

1. Rossio Square

Officially named Praça Dom Pedro IV, this centrally located square is much more commonly known simply as Rossio. Come here at any time of the day to find the square abuzz, as people gather to socialize at cafés around the square’s edge.
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A plaza with patterned pavement, a fountain, and historic buildings in the background.

2. Belém Tower

Belém Tower is an impressive structure on the shore of the Tagus River in Lisbon. The ornate fortification was built here over 500 years ago to fight off any hostile craft that came up the river. Gaze straight across the river from the top of the Tower Terrace to see St. Sebastian’s Fort, another fortification on the opposite shore. With the two towers in place, enemy warships could not achieve success in attacking the city.
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A historic stone castle by a river, with a wooden bridge leading to it.

3. Santa Justa Elevator

The Santa Justa Elevator connects the hilltop neighborhood Bairro Alto with downtown Baixa. The gothic, iron structure rises up from the neoclassical architecture of downtown. The elevator has been in operation since 1905 and was originally operated by a steam engine. Today it’s powered by an electric engine and is a great way to enjoy views over the city. Visit the elevator’s rooftop café.
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A historic bridge with ornate metalwork and a view of a cityscape with red-tiled roofs.

4. Commerce Square

Commerce Square, or the Praça do Comércio, is a meeting place for locals and a great spot to bask in the sun along the riverfront. This was the site of the royal palace for many centuries, until the Great Earthquake of 1755. The palace was remodeled into an elaborate stone monument that marks the point of entry to the city. Today the square offers many places to sit and relax in between visits to the surrounding sites of the central Baixa district.
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A plaza with a statue, a large archway, and yellow buildings.

5. Lisbon Oceanarium

The Lisbon Oceanarium is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe and houses more than 8,000 fish, birds, mammals and invertebrates. Bring the family to be entertained while learning about conservation and ocean habitats around the world.
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A modern indoor space with a large blue mosaic wall and wooden sculptures.

6. Castle of São Jorge

The Castle of São Jorge is a huge medieval structure that overlooks the city. Take a guided tour to learn about Lisbon’s past and enjoy views across the capital from the castle’s grounds.
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A historic stone fortress overlooking a cityscape with red-roofed buildings.

7. Lisbon Cathedral

The Lisbon Cathedral (the Santa Maria Maior de Lisboa) is a must-see for lovers of architecture. It is the oldest religious structure in Lisbon and has been modified several times, so it reflects many different architectural styles.
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A historic building with ornate architecture, a clock tower, and a tram in the foreground.

Recommended things to do in Lisbon

Number of things to do
1570
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Exciting Free Walking Tour: Explore Iconic Landmarks & Stunning Viewpoints: CA $2
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Lisbon

Stay near popular Lisbon attractions

A plaza with patterned pavement, a fountain, and historic buildings in the background.

Rossio Square

9.0/10 (18,398 reviews)
See the people-packed central square whose swirling wave-patterned cobbles are thought to have inspired copycat pavements across the rest of Portugal and beyond.
See properties

Where to stay in Lisbon

Find the best Lisbon areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Lisbon
Learn more about Lisbon
A densely packed urban area with colorful buildings, a prominent white statue, and a red-roofed church.

Baixa

Enjoy the popular shops in Baixa. Rossio Square is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Baixa-Chiado Station or Praça da Figueira Stop to see more of Santa Maria Maior.
A terrace overlooking a coastal town with cobblestone pavement, a palm tree, and a view of the sea.

Alfama

Alfama is a destination travelers like for its historic sites, and you might hop aboard the metro at Lg. Portas Sol Stop or R. Escolas Gerais Stop to explore sights like Portas do Sol Viewpoint.
A cityscape with a hilltop fortress, a park with benches and flowers, and a couple kissing on a bridge railing.

Chiado

You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Chiado. Spend some time visiting top spots like Camões Square, and catch the metro at Chiado Stop or Lg. Academia Nacional Belas AR Stop to see more of the area.
Two women overlooking a cityscape with historic buildings and a castle on a hill.

Bairro Alto

Spend some time visiting places like Fado in Chiado while getting to know Bairro Alto, and be sure to check out the lively bars. You can hop aboard the metro at Elevador da Glória Stop or São Pedro de Alcântara Stop to see more of the area.
A large banyan tree with extensive roots and a bench in a park.

Príncipe Real

Noted for its gardens and cafes, there's plenty to explore in Príncipe Real. Top attractions like Avenida da Liberdade and Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Príncipe Real Stop or Rato Station to see more of the city.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Lisbon

A coastal fortification with a prominent tower, waves crashing against the shore, and a clear blue sky.

Oeiras

A coastal cityscape with terracotta-roofed buildings, a prominent white church, and a view of the sea and distant city lights.

Lisbon District

A cityscape with a prominent bridge, dense urban buildings, and a hilly backdrop.

Campo de Ourique

A marble statue of a woman with a laurel wreath, standing in a classical architectural setting.

Ajuda

A street lined with multi-story residential buildings, a bus stop, and parked cars.

Areeiro

A coastal cityscape with a prominent bridge, dense greenery, and residential buildings.

Benfica

A coastal cityscape with colorful buildings, a prominent cathedral, and a beach in the background.

Amadora

A bridge over a river with a cityscape in the background.

Vila Franca de Xira

Frequently asked questions

Is Lisbon worth visiting?
Lisbon offers an interesting mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, nature or traditional food, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Lisbon?
When you've checked off major attractions like Castle of São Jorge, spend some time exploring the retail and food options in Lisbon.
What is the top tourist attraction in Lisbon?
Castle of São Jorge is ranked the top tourist attraction near Lisbon, so don't leave without experiencing it.
Is three days enough to stay in Lisbon?
You'll have plenty of time to explore Castle of São Jorge, Lisbon Cathedral and other top attractions in the area when you book a three-day escape to Lisbon.
Is Lisbon a walkable neighbourhood?
Getting around Lisbon on foot is a breeze, with top sights like Castle of São Jorge and Lisbon Cathedral both within walking distance. Well-known neighbourhoods like Santa Maria Maior and Baixa are also located only 0.48 kilometres and 0.16 kilometres from the centre of Lisbon, so you can see and do more — no car required.
What are some activities to do in Lisbon with kids?
If you're searching for tours and attractions for all of your group, here are some awesome ideas for what to do in Lisbon with kids.

What to do in Lisbon for adults?
Campo Pequeno Bullring is one of the best things to do in Lisbon. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Lisbon?
Near Lisbon, Lisbon Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone who wants to enjoy this area without spending a cent. Also, wander through parks and other neighbourhoods nearby, and don't hesitate to ask a local tour guide for insider tips. It's a simple way to find the best free things to do in Lisbon.

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