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Lisbon

Seven hills, azulejos & the sound of fado

Draped over seven hills above the Tagus, Lisbon is all pastel facades, blue-tiled churches, rattling trams and miradouros made for sunset. It is a city of custard tarts and melancholy fado, ancient Alfama lanes and buzzing riverside markets – soulful, sun-washed and remarkably easy to love. These are the places locals point their friends toward.

Good to know

7

hills the city sprawls across, each crowned with its own viewpoint

1755

the great earthquake that reshaped the elegant grid of the Baixa

1837

the year the original pastel de nata recipe first left the monastery

500+

years of hand-painted azulejo tiles covering facades across the city

Local tips

  • Wear proper shoes – the hills and polished calçada cobbles are genuinely slippery.
  • Ride historic Tram 28 early to beat the crowds (and keep an eye on your pockets).
  • A pastel de nata is best warm with a dusting of cinnamon – never skip it.
  • Grab a rechargeable Viva Viagem card for trams, metro and the ferries across the river.

Browse Lisbon

Lisbon at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Praça do Comércio and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
  • Where to stay: Intendente and Santa Catarina
  • Local picks: 56 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Local tips for Lisbon

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Where to stay in Lisbon

Compare live hotel prices and availability on the map. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Cais do Sodré

Tagus Sunset Sailing

A sundown sail on the Tagus past the 25 de Abril bridge and the Cristo Rei statue.
★ 4.6
$$$
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Príncipe Real

The Independente Suites & Terrace

Stylish suites in a former ambassador’s residence by the Príncipe Real gardens.
★ 4.4
$$
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Bairro Alto

The Lumiares

Elegant apartment-style suites and a buzzy rooftop restaurant in the heart of Bairro Alto.
★ 4.6
$$$
View guide →

Cais do Sodré

Time Out Market Lisboa

The city’s star chefs under one roof in a historic riverside market hall – grab a stool and graze.
★ 4.5
$$
View guide →

Alfama

Tram 28 Ride

The rattling yellow Tram 28 threads Graça, Alfama and Estrela on the city’s most scenic route.
★ 4.4
$
View guide →

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Book your trip to Lisbon

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Lisbon travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Lisbon?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Lisbon at a relaxed pace. See our Lisbon itinerary guide for a day-by-day plan.

Where is the best area to stay in Lisbon?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit. Our where to stay in Lisbon guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods.

What are the best things to do in Lisbon?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay.

What is the best time to visit Lisbon?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Lisbon is worth visiting year-round.

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