Lisbon is a city of stunning beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its seven hills, colorful tiled buildings, and historic trams, it offers a wealth of attractions for every kind of traveler. Here’s a look at some of the best:

Historic Landmarks

• Jerónimos Monastery: Located in the Belém district, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. It was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s voyage and is an awe-inspiring example of Portuguese Gothic style.
• Belém Tower (Torre de Belém): An iconic symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, this 16th-century fortress stands on the Tagus River. Its unique architecture and history make it a must-see.
• São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge): Perched on one of Lisbon’s highest hills, this historic castle offers incredible panoramic views of the city, the Tagus River, and beyond. Its ancient walls and archaeological site provide a glimpse into Lisbon’s past.
• Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa): This Romanesque cathedral is the oldest church in the city. It has survived centuries of earthquakes and stands as a testament to Lisbon’s resilience.

Charming Neighborhoods and Districts

• Alfama: Lisbon’s oldest and most authentic district, Alfama is a maze of narrow, winding streets, historic houses, and small squares. It’s the birthplace of Fado music and a great place to get lost and discover the city’s soul.
• Baixa: The lively, central downtown area that was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. It’s characterized by its grand squares, like Praça do Comércio, and the majestic Rua Augusta Arch.
• Bairro Alto & Chiado: These adjacent neighborhoods offer a mix of bohemian charm, trendy boutiques, and lively nightlife. Bairro Alto comes alive after dark, while Chiado is a more sophisticated area with theaters, bookshops, and cafés.

Unique Experiences and Sights

• Tram 28: A ride on the historic Tram 28 is a quintessential Lisbon experience. This vintage yellow tram rattles through some of the city’s most picturesque districts, including Alfama, Baixa, and Chiado, offering a unique sightseeing tour.
• Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa): An ornate, wrought-iron elevator that connects the Baixa and Chiado districts. Built by an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel, it offers stunning views from its upper platform.
• Miradouros (Viewpoints): Because of its many hills, Lisbon is dotted with “miradouros” that provide breathtaking views of the city. Popular ones include Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, Miradouro das Portas do Sol, and Miradouro de Santa Luzia.
• National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo): A unique museum dedicated to the art of Portuguese tiles, known as azulejos. It’s housed in a former convent and showcases the history and evolution of this iconic art form.
• LX Factory: A creative hub located in a former industrial complex under the 25 de Abril Bridge. It’s home to a variety of trendy shops, cool restaurants, bars, and art studios.

Day Trips from Lisbon

• Sintra: Just a short train ride away, Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its fairytale palaces and romantic architecture. Pena Palace and the Quinta da Regaleira are among the most famous.
• Cascais: A charming seaside town with beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s an easy and enjoyable day trip from Lisbon.
• Belém: While technically a district of Lisbon, Belém is so rich in attractions that it deserves a half-day or full-day visit on its own. In addition to the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, you can try the original Pastéis de Belém at the famous bakery.