by Portugal Getaways Team

August 4, 2025 • 7 min read

General Information about Lisbon, Portugal

Looking for Lisbon travel tips? You’re in the right place. This colorful capital is full of charm, from its iconic trams and cobblestone streets to golden sunsets over the rooftops. No matter if it’s your first visit or a return to a favorite destination, Lisbon always surprises. In this Lisbon travel guide, we answer the most common questions about the city’s food, culture, transport, and top spots.

You can learn a lot just by reading on, so if Lisbon’s calling, keep scrolling.

What Are the Must-Do Things in Lisbon?

There are countless things to do in Lisbon, but here are a few you simply can’t miss:

• Ride Tram 28 through historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Graça
• Visit the iconic Castelo de São Jorge for panoramic views
• Catch a live fado performance in a traditional restaurant
• Explore Belém area: the Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the unique Pastéis de Belém
• Watch the sunset from Santa Luzia Viewpoint or Senhora do Monte Viewpoint

What Should I Know Before Traveling to Lisbon, Portugal?

Before your trip to Lisbon, here are some useful Lisbon travel tips:

• The city is built on hills, so pack comfortable shoes for walking.
• The local currency is Euro (€); cards are widely accepted, but small change is handy for trams or cafes.
• English is widely spoken, but learning a few Portuguese phrases goes a long way.
• If you're planning to stay in Lisbon, a car isn’t necessary, the city is best explored on foot or by tram.

What Is Lisbon Known For?

Lisbon is known for its historic trams, scenic viewpoints, vibrant neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto, and rich cultural heritage. Highlights include fado music, pastel de nata, tiled façades, and landmarks like the Belém Tower and São Jorge Castle.

How Much Is a Coffee in Lisbon?

A traditional espresso ("bica") costs around €0.70 to €1.50 ($0.76 and $1.63 USD), depending on the location. Trendy cafes might charge a bit more, but it’s still budget-friendly compared to other European cities.

Is Food and Drink Cheap in Lisbon?

Generally, yes. A hearty meal at a local tasca can cost under €15 ($16.30 USD). Drinks are also affordable. In touristy spots and rooftop bars, prices are higher but still reasonable by European standards.

Do You Tip in Portugal?

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it's appreciated. Leaving 5-10% at restaurants or rounding up a bill is common. For taxis and cafes, rounding up to the nearest Euro is polite.

What Portuguese Words Should I Learn Before Visiting?

Learning a few basics will enhance your experience:

• Olá = Hello
• Por favor = Please
• Obrigado/a = Thank you
• Quanto custa? = How much?
• Onde fica...? = Where is...?

What Are Typical Portuguese Dishes to Try in Lisbon?

Some must-try local foods:

• Bacalhau à brás: shredded cod with egg and potato
• Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato: clams in garlic and wine
• Sardinhas assadas: grilled sardines
• Caldo verde: kale and potato soup
• Pastel de Belém: iconic custard tart

Discover here the must-try foods when in Lisbon.

Where should I stay in Lisbon for first-time visitors?

Baixa, Chiado, and Avenida da Liberdade are ideal for first-timers, central, walkable, and close to key attractions, restaurants, and transport options.

Check here for more information on the best places to stay in Lisbon.

Are there good hotels near the city center?

Definitely. Baixa and Chiado offer a great mix of boutique stays, modern hotels, and budget-friendly options, all within walking distance of major sights.

Unsure about where to book? Our Lisbon accommodations picks won’t let you down.

What are the best areas for nightlife in Lisbon?

Bairro Alto is the go-to for lively bars and street parties, while Cais do Sodré offers trendy clubs and riverfront venues. Príncipe Real is perfect for a more relaxed, stylish night out. Know more about Alfama neieigborhoud here

Is Alfama safe at night?

Yes, Alfama is generally safe, even after dark. Just stick to well-lit streets and avoid wandering alone in unfamiliar alleys late at night.

How to Get to Alfama?

Hop on Tram 28 or walk uphill from Baixa. This is one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, known for its maze-like alleys, fado houses, and scenic viewpoints.

Learn more about the Alfama neighborhood here.

How to Get to Belém from the City Center?

Take Tram 15E from Praça do Comércio or a bus to Belém. The journey takes about 20 minutes. You can also go by bike or on a guided walking tour along the river.

How to Get to Sintra from Lisbon?

Take the train from Rossio Station. Trains leave every 20-30 minutes and take around 40 minutes to reach Sintra. It’s an easy day trip packed with fairy-tale palaces.

What to Do in Sintra?

Some top sites include:

• Palácio da Pena
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Palácio Nacional de Sintra
• Castelo dos Mouros
• Strolling the historic town center and tasting travesseiros (flaky puff pastries filled with sweet almond and egg yolk cream)

Know more about Sintra here.

How to Get From Lisbon to Madeira?

The best way to get from Lisbon to Madeira is by direct flight. Planes depart daily from Lisbon Airport (LIS) to Funchal (FNC), with a flight time of around 1 hour and 45 minutes. There are no ferry options, so flying is the only convenient choice.

What Are the Best Museums in Lisbon?

• Berardo Collection Museum: Modern and contemporary art
• National Tile Museum: Portuguese azulejo tile history
• MAAT: Art, architecture, and technology on the riverfront
• Calouste Gulbenkian Museum: One of Europe’s top private collections of art, spanning from ancient Egyptian artifacts to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Monet, and René Lalique
• National Coach Museum: One of Lisbon’s most iconic museums, featuring a unique collection of richly decorated royal carriages from the 17th to 19th centuries, all remarkably well preserved.
   

What Are the Best Churches in Lisbon?

• Lisbon Cathedral (Sé): The oldest in the city
• Igreja de São Roque: Richly decorated with Baroque interiors
• Basílica da Estrela: Beautiful dome and tranquil gardens

What Is the Best Way to Ride Tram 28?

Board early in the morning at Praça Martim Moniz to avoid crowds. Hold onto your belongings, sit near a window, and enjoy the ride through Chiado, Alfama, and beyond.

Quick Tips for Your Lisbon Trip:

• Stay in Baixa, Alfama, or Chiado for a central experience
• Book accommodation early if visiting during summer or holidays
• Use a Lisbon travel card (Viva Viagem) for public transport
• Don’t skip the viewpoints (miradouros), they offer stunning perspectives of the city

Final Words: Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. With its rich culture, charming neighborhoods, and delicious food, Lisbon is one of the most exciting cities in Europe. From historic sites to lively nightlife and nearby beaches, this Portugal travel guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Now that you know all about what makes Lisbon so special, it’s the perfect time to start planning your adventure.