Complete travel guide to Lisbon in 2025: what to see, where to stay, how to get around and essential tips

Lisbon remains one of Europe’s most captivating capitals — a city of golden rooftops, historic trams, ocean breezes, and modern energy. Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or planning a longer stay, this complete 2025 travel guide covers everything you need to know: the best neighborhoods, top attractions, transportation tips, estimated budgets, and where to stay depending on your travel style.

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, a booming food scene, friendly locals, and historic districts that feel frozen in time, Lisbon offers an unforgettable mix of old and new. In this guide, you’ll find practical, updated insights to help you plan the perfect trip.

Why visit Lisbon in 2025?

• Excellent weather nearly year-round
• Walkable city full of viewpoints and scenic routes
• Authentic neighborhoods with traditional markets and cafés
• Modern museums and cultural events
• Easy day trips to Sintra, Cascais, and the beaches of the Estoril coast
• Safe, affordable, and easy to navigate

Lisbon has fully recovered its tourism rhythm with better transport, improved digital services, new restaurants, and renovated public spaces.

Best neighborhoods to explore

Alfama — Lisbon’s oldest soul

Alfama is a maze of narrow alleys, tiled façades, Fado houses, and hidden squares. It’s perfect for getting lost and discovering the city’s medieval roots. Expect steep climbs, stunning views, and endless photo opportunities.

Bairro Alto — nightlife and artistic corners

Famous for its bars and bohemian vibe, Bairro Alto is full of small restaurants, fado venues, and creative shops. It’s lively at night and quieter during the day.

Chiado — elegant and historic

Chiado sits between Bairro Alto and Baixa, offering bookstores, theaters, trendy cafés, and boutique shopping. It’s one of Lisbon’s most stylish areas.

Belém — culture, monuments and riverside ambience

Home to Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery, this district offers some of Lisbon’s most iconic sights and museums.

Parque das Nações — modern Lisbon

Lisbon’s futuristic waterfront with oceanfront promenades, contemporary architecture, the Oceanarium, and excellent family-friendly attractions.

Top things to do in Lisbon in 2025

Ride the classic Tram 28

No trip to Lisbon is complete without riding Tram 28 through Alfama, Graça, and Baixa. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Visit São Jorge Castle

Lisbon’s hilltop castle offers panoramic views and centuries of history. Explore the ramparts and gardens while looking over the Tagus River.

Explore Belém’s monuments

Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries. Don’t miss the original Pastéis de Belém pastry shop — the line moves quickly!

Wander through Time Out Market

A modern food hall featuring the best of Lisbon’s cuisine: seafood, pastries, wine bars, and innovative dishes by Portuguese chefs.

Enjoy Miradouros (viewpoints)

• Miradouro da Graça
• Miradouro de Santa Catarina
• Miradouro das Portas do Sol

These spots are perfect for sunset photos and relaxing with a drink in hand.

Where to stay in Lisbon

Lisbon offers accommodations for every budget and style. Here’s how to choose:

Best for first-time visitors: Baixa & Chiado

Central, walkable, close to landmarks, shops, and public transit.

Best for nightlife: Bairro Alto

Ideal for those who want to be close to bars, restaurants, and late-night scenes.

Best for authenticity: Alfama & Mouraria

Stay in historic alleyways full of traditional shops and viewpoints.

Best for families: Parque das Nações

Wide sidewalks, parks, the Oceanarium, and modern hotels.

Best for beach lovers: Cascais (day trips or stay outside Lisbon)

25–35 minutes away by train, perfect for combining city + beach.

How to get around Lisbon

• Metro: fast, clean, and best for long distances.
• Trams: scenic but sometimes crowded — great for sightseeing.
• Buses: extensive network including airport connections.
• Uber/Bolt: cheap and widely available.
• Walking: the best way to explore neighborhoods, but expect hills!

The Lisboa Card offers unlimited public transport and discounts on museums — great for 48h or 72h stays.

How much does Lisbon cost in 2025?

Lisbon is still affordable compared to many European capitals.

• Coffee: €1.20 – €1.80
• Lunch menu: €10 – €14
• Metro ticket: €1.80
• Museum entry: €5 – €12

Daily budget recommendations:

• Budget traveler: €40 – €70/day
• Mid-range traveler: €80 – €140/day
• Comfort/luxury: €150 – €300/day

Best day trips from Lisbon

Sintra

Castles, palaces, forests, and romantic architecture. Don’t miss Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.

Cascais

Charming seaside town with beaches, museums, and great seafood.

Évora

Roman temples, medieval streets, and Alentejo wine tasting.

Setúbal & Arrábida

Stunning turquoise beaches, nature trails, and dolphin-watching tours.

Travel tips for Lisbon in 2025

• Wear comfortable shoes — Lisbon’s hills and cobblestones can be demanding.
• Avoid peak summer crowds by visiting in April–June or September–October.
• Book major attractions early, especially Peña Palace in Sintra.
• Learn a few Portuguese words — locals appreciate the effort.
• Try traditional dishes: bacalhau, caldo verde, bifana, and pastel de nata.

Lisbon is a magical blend of history, culture, food, and sunshine. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two weeks, the city offers endless discoveries — from traditional fado nights to sweeping river views and unforgettable meals. With the right itinerary and neighborhood choice, your trip to Lisbon in 2025 will be one to remember.