Lisbon, Portugal: Is It Worth Visiting?
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Verdict: Yes. Lisbon is one of Europe's most walkable, affordable and photogenic capitals, with great food, easy day trips and a relaxed pace.
Best for: couples, solo travelers, food lovers, first-time visitors to Europe.
Best time to go: March to June and September to October. July and August are hot and crowded.
Suggested stay: 4 to 5 days.
What we like
- Food: Pastéis de nata, grilled fish and petiscos (small plates) are easy to find at fair prices.
- Neighborhoods: Alfama for old-town streets, Baixa for shopping, Belém for monuments and the famous custard tarts.
- Day trips: Sintra's palaces and Cascais' beaches are both within about an hour by train.
- Value: Meals and public transport cost less than in many other Western European capitals.
What to know
- Lisbon is very hilly. Bring comfortable shoes with good grip, because the stone pavements get slippery.
- Tram 28 is scenic but crowded. Go early or take a different route.
- Watch for pickpockets on busy trams and in tourist areas.
Getting there and staying connected
Compare flights to Lisbon (LIS) a few months ahead for the best fares. A travel eSIM lets you use maps and translation as soon as you land, without roaming charges. Keep a power bank in your day bag, since maps drain the battery fast.
Pack list
Walking shoes, light layers, a small crossbody bag, a power bank, and travel insurance.
Prices, entry rules and opening hours change. Check official sources before you travel.