Lisbon is an incredible place with so much to do. So, how do you even begin to choose what to do? Because it is so rich in history and culture, many of your activities should revolve around immersing yourself in it.
Read on to discover ten things you can do in Lisbon for a day.
1. Enjoy the Rossio Square
Among one of the staples of Lisbon is the Rossio Square. Here is where many locals pass by on their way to work, play games in the park, or run to on their daily exercise. Whatever the reason may be, the ancient cobblestone of this square is often filled with life and local culture. It is the perfect place for visitors to come, take a load off, and watch as Lisbon goes about its daily business.
2. Take a Ride on Tram 28
Lisbon is riddled with trams lines that many use as their primary means of transportation every day. Among these trams is the infamous tram 28, which takes passengers from Graca to Estrela Basilica. Being one of the main trams of the Alfama District, you can find tourists and locals alike sharing this cute rattling tram.
3. Visit the Lisbon Oceanarium
One of the largest aquariums in all of Europe resides directly off the shore of Lisbon on the Tagus Estuary. Home to more than 450 different species of aquatic life, this oceanarium has become quite a tourist attraction. It is divided up into four separate tanks, each representing four different types of oceanic ecosystems. With so much to do and see, it would be easy to spend several hours enjoying this preview of what the ocean has to offer.
4. Take In the Night Life at Bairro Alto
During the day, this quaint part of town is a peaceful place with restaurants and bakeries. However, as soon as the sun goes down, the environment completely shifts. Known as the hot spot for nightlife, Bairro Alto is the place to go for drinks, live music, dancing, and any other nightlife activities you could hope for.
5. Visit the Belem Tower
The Belem Tower, or Torre de Belem, is a gorgeous tower that has been perched elegantly on the face of the Tagus River since the 1500s. From watchtower to prison, this tower has taken on many roles over the years. Now it stands as a place that anyone can visit and marvel at the rich history that preceded them.
6. Wander the Streets of the Alfama District
Lisbon is a beautiful town, and perhaps the most beautiful part about it is the Alfama District. Getting its fame for narrow winding roads and alleys that make it almost impossible to navigate alone. It has become a joy to visitors and locals alike to wander through this district looking at gorgeous architecture, going to local fado pubs, and enjoying the fresh Portuguese air.
7. Climb to the Castle of Saint George
Perched atop the beloved Alfama District is the gorgeous Castle of St George. This castle can be seen from nearly anywhere in the city and is a great place to spend your time. To get there, you can either climb the steep hills of the Alfama district or take one of the local trams. If you have been shopping and do not want to carry your bags on your trek, that is no problem. Simply drop them off at one of the facilities for luggage storage in Lisbon, and begin your journey up to the castle.
8. Marvel at the Padrão dos Descobrimentos
Lisbon is full of history and culture, so it is crucial to make a point to learn about it and see it with your own eyes. The Padrão dos Descobrimentos is one of the primary landmarks to help you with this. It was built as a memorial to the Portuguese men who played critical roles in its history.
9. Walk the Gardens at the Palace of the Marquises of Fronteira
The Palace of the Marquises of Fronteira is known all over Portugal for its incredible architecture and lush gardens. A walk around this beautiful facility will grace you with fresh smelling air, gorgeous architecture, and a sense of true immersion into what it was like back in historic Lisbon.
10. Enjoy the Beaches of Costa da Caparica
Lisbon is no stranger to gorgeous European beaches, including those on the lovely resort Costa da Caparica. Here you can lay out, go for a swim, or simply take a walk down the breathtaking coastline.
The Takeaway
Lisbon is rich in history, great tourist attractions, and local hidden gems. While you are there, be sure to pay attention to the details. It’s crucial to eat the local food, talk to a few people who live there, and just experience the culture as a whole. Doing that on top of visiting any of these 10 locations, your time in Portugal can be fun, educational, and filled with great memories.
Leave a Reply