What to See in Lisbon: a Guide to Discovering the City

Lisbon has a special way of winning you over little by little: with its steep streets, tiled façades, trams, viewpoints and the light of the Tagus accompanying the way.

In this guide, we bring together some of the must-see places in Lisbon so you can organise your getaway and discover the city through its neighbourhoods, squares, monuments and most charming corners.

Baixa and Chiado: the most elegant centre

These are two ideal areas to start discovering Lisbon on foot. Here you will find squares, shopping streets, historic cafés and some of the city’s most photographed corners.

Do not miss:

• Praça do Comércio: one of Lisbon’s most emblematic squares, opening onto the Tagus.
• Rua Augusta: perfect for strolling among shops, terraces and historic buildings.
• Santa Justa Lift: one of the city’s urban icons, with views over the centre.

Alfama: the most traditional side of Lisbon

One of Lisbon’s most characterful neighbourhoods. Its narrow streets, steep slopes, tiled façades and local atmosphere make every walk feel special.

In this area you can see:

• Lisbon Cathedral: also known as the Sé, one of the most important visits in the historic centre.
• São Jorge Castle: perfect for enjoying one of the best views of the city.
• Alfama viewpoints: ideal for seeing Lisbon from above and taking a break during your route.

Belém: history, river and pastries

Belém is one of Lisbon’s most special areas and an essential stop to understand the city’s relationship with the sea.

Here you can visit:

• Belém Tower: one of Lisbon’s great symbols, located beside the Tagus River.
• Jerónimos Monastery: an architectural jewel and one of the city’s most important visits.
• Pastéis de Belém: an almost obligatory stop to try one of Portugal’s most famous sweets.

Lisbon is best enjoyed by combining its major must-sees with more spontaneous moments: a pause in a square, a coffee between visits, a climb up to a viewpoint or a wander through its historic neighbourhoods.

Organise your route by area, leave time to walk at a relaxed pace and discover how each corner adds a different part to your getaway in the Portuguese capital.