Lisbon City Guide – Visit Lisbon Portugal
The best things to do in Lisbon, travel tips and attraction tickets
Welcome to Visit-Lisbon.net, your ultimate travel companion for discovering Lisbon, the stunning capital of Portugal!
This online travel guide is here to provide helpful insights and recommendations so you can make the most of your time in Lisbon.
Lisbon is one of the most visited cities in Southern Europe, welcoming nearly 9 million visitors each year and it’s easy to see why. From its iconic yellow trams and colourful tiled façades to its vibrant food scene and breathtaking viewpoints, Lisbon truly has it all. Whether you’re a history lover, culture seeker, foodie, or simply here to enjoy the sun, Lisbon has something for everyone.
Most popular things to do in Lisbon
Looking for the best things to do in Lisbon? Here’s a curated selection of the most popular Lisbon attractions to help you plan your visit. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer stay, these must-see things in Lisbon are a great place to start.
You can also check out our guide to the Top 10 landmarks in Lisbon for a quick overview of the city’s most iconic spots.
What is the weather in Lisbon like? When should I visit Lisbon?
Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest capital cities, blessed with mildly warm weather throughout the year. Rain is generally limited to the months between November and February, making it a great destination in almost any season.
So when is the best time to visit Lisbon? That really depends on your travel style. The weather in Lisbon in April, May, and September is especially ideal for sightseeing, offering sunshine, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds. If you’re wondering when to go, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to early November) are often considered the best times to visit Lisbon as they offer a perfect balance between good weather and manageable tourist numbers.
Lisbon in summer (June to August) is popular thanks to the lively festivals, long sunny days and easy access to nearby beaches, although you should be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices. If you’re looking for a quieter, more budget-friendly trip, consider visiting Lisbon in winter (November to February) can be a good alternative. Just remember to pack a warm coat and an umbrella, as the weather is cooler and wetter.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Min. Temperature (°C) | 8° | 9° | 11° | 13° | 15° | 18° | 20° | 20° | 19° | 16° | 11° | 8° |
| Average Max. Temperature (°C) | 15° | 16° | 18° | 20° | 22° | 26° | 29° | 29° | 27° | 23° | 18° | 15° |
| Rain (days) | 14 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 8 | 11 | 14 |
It’s worth keeping an eye on Lisbon’s public holidays, as they can affect your plans. On these dates, some museums, restaurants or attractions may be closed. You’ll also find that public transport in Lisbon might run less frequently. That said, some holidays come with local celebrations and street parades which can be a great way to experience the city’s culture, just expect a few more crowds than usual.
Lisbon Bank Holidays (2025)
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| 1st of January | New Year’s Day |
| 18th of April | Good Friday |
| 20th of April | Easter Sunday |
| 25th of April | Liberation Day |
| 1st of May | Labour Day |
| 10th of June | Portugal Day |
| 13th of June | Saint Anthony’s Day |
| 19th of June | Corpus Christi |
| 15th of August | Assumption of Mary |
| 5th of October | Republic Day |
| 1st of November | All Saints’ Day |
| 1st of December | Restoration of Independence |
| 8th of December | Immaculate Conception |
| 25th of December | Christmas Day |
Where to Stay in Lisbon Portugal?
Lisbon is a beautiful and hilly city with a variety of neighbourhoods, each offering its own character and charm. Choosing the best place to stay in Lisbon can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting.
That’s why we’ve created this updated 2025 guide to the best areas to stay in Lisbon, featuring insights into six of the most popular neighbourhoods. You’ll find local tips, pros and cons of each area and practical advice to help you choose the one that best fits your travel style.
Where is Lisbon located in Portugal?
Lisbon is located in the western part of Portugal, where the Tagus River meets the Atlantic Ocean. It’s the capital city of Portugal and is pretty much centralised in terms of its proximity to other major cities in the country.
To give you a sense of its location in relation to other major cities:
- Porto, in the north, is about 313 km (194 miles) from Lisbon. You can get there by car in 3-4 hours, or take a train in roughly 2.5 hours.
- Faro, which is a popular city in the Algarve region, is to the south of Lisbon, around 278 km (173 miles) away or about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.
- Coimbra, a charming city known for its historic university, is located to the north of Lisbon, at a distance of approximately 203 km (126 miles), making it about a 2-hour drive from the capital.
Thanks to its central position and strong public transport network, Lisbon is a great starting point for exploring other regions of Portugal by train, bus, or car.
Below is a map of Lisbon, Portugal, showing its location on the western coast of the country, near the Atlantic Ocean and the Tagus River.
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