You might be asking, is one week in Lisbon enough or too much? As travelers too, let us help you answer that through this guide.
Find essential details of Lisbon and some insider tips on this article to answer your question and to clear your thoughts on your trip to the Portugal capital.
Let us help you decide on what places to visit, things to do, foods to try and many more. We will share with all that you need to know and guide you all throughout.
Our full guide covers:
- Basic Introduction
- Where to stay in Lisbon
- How to get around
- What to see in Lisbon
- Things to do in Lisbon
- Tickets you have to buy before – must read
- Food and Restaurants
- Day Trips from Lisbon
- Itinerary for Lisbon
- Packing List
- City Map
Not to mention, this guide will give you a hand on your one week in Florence itinerary. And we are certain that you’ll have an exciting and overwhelming time during your stay.
Aside from the great weather and delicious food, Lisbon itself can definitely convince you to have a great time in the capital.
Therefore, let’s keep this going as we welcome you to your one week in Lisbon itinerary!
1. Basic Introduction
First things first, we want to start with a simple intro to the things you need to know before coming to Lisbon.
Currency: EUR (€)
Language Spoken: The universal language in Lisbon is Portuguese.
On the other hand, English is also widely spoken in the city especially those from the tourism sector. Thus, the language barrier will not be a problem when traveling to Lisbon.
Population: 500,000
Known for: As the capital of Portugal with more history of the world, Lisbon is a historical city that has many monuments and buildings to remember it.
Aside from great architecture, Lisbon being situated astride seven hills offer a different view of the city all throughout your stay.
Also, as the home of tarts, don’t miss to try their custard tarts that we are hand down. Oh, how I miss those tarts. It makes me crave right now.
Accommodation: Just like any city in Europe, Lisbon has everything for everyone. You can certainly find luxury hotels to super budget-friendly apartments in the city. From stunning balcony views to amazing facilities and service, Lisbon has so much to offer.
Find more details in our where to stay in Lisbon section below.
Public Transport: Moving from one place to another is relatively easy in Lisbon and in its suburbs. Allowing you to be close to almost all the tourist attractions in the city.
Lisbon’s public transportation includes the metro, tram, bus, funicular, train and also boat and taxi. Moreover, you can use its many public transport systems with the use of just one card.
More under how to get around.
Safety: Portugal is one of the safest European countries which makes Lisbon safe to travel as well.
However, being a top tourist destination, it draws its own group of pickpockets and thieves. Generally, very crowded places are likely to have this kind of issue which you probably know.
Therefore, here are tips for you to consider and to keep you reminded while you’re in Lisbon.
- Be attentive especially in crowded places like the metro, bus or restaurants.
- Always keep an eye on your things and never leave them unattended.
- Put your bags in front and your things in your front pocket.
- Do not accept any help with your luggage from anyone.
- Never leave anything valuable in your vehicle.
Generally, these are basic safety tips I can give you. Just follow these and you’ll be safe.
City name: Lisbon remained independent and free during world war II in the modern era. Thus, becoming the center of surveillance for both Allies and Nazis, earning its name “The Spy City”.
Through time, according to locals, Lisbon eventually became home to many immigrants who came to work in the city. Hence, today Lisbon is also called, a “city of immigrants”.
Electricity: 230V/50Hz (European plug). Remember to pack your travel plug adapter.
2. Where to stay in Lisbon
More than just the great weather all year round, other reasons why you should visit Lisbon is because of its amazing food and more than 20 stunning viewpoints all across the city.
Aside from this, the Portugal capital offers an exciting nightlife plus you can enjoy its beaches with half an hour away.
And since rumor has it that you’re traveling for the first time for one week in Lisbon or less, we have listed down below our handpicked recommendations you can consider to stay according to the kind of your travel.
Whether your traveling solo or traveling with family and friends, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hostel or a luxury hotel, we got it all for you.
Even more, we have also made a map to better show you where they are located.
Additionally, included in the map are sights you should and might want to visit during your one week in Lisbon.
Our handpicked recommendations:
- Families: Lisbon Art Stay Apartments
- Couples: Lisboa Pessoa Hotel
- Luxury Travelers: Olissippo Lapa Palace – The Leading Hotels of the World
- Design Lovers: Torel Palace The Vintage Hotel & Spa – Lisbon
- Groups: Lisbon Calling
- Solo Traveler: Jupiter Lisboa Hotel
- Nightlife Traveler: Sunset Destination Hostel
- On a low budget: Hub Lisbon Patio Hostel
Furthermore, here we cover all neighborhoods, and for which type of traveler we recommend the areas and hotels.
2.1. Lisbon Art Stay Apartments – Great for Families
Great for families, surround yourself with art in Lisbon Art Stay Apartments.
Since location can be a very big deal in traveling families, you got yourself a good location in this property right in the city center. With just a 20-minute walk from Alfama and Bairro Alto; and a 2-minute walk from the Tagus River and metro station.
Moreover, find your rooms individually decorated and painted with art decorations all over the apartment. Plus, studio apartments boast a fully equipped kitchenette with a fridge and a microwave.
Also, just near the property, you will find restaurants, cafes, and shops that make it convenient for you to walk around. And since the Tagus River is near, you will find it relaxing to have a stroll along the sidewalk by the river.
On the other hand, one highlight of the property you will love is the 24/7 rooftop terrace that features a stunning view of the Tagus River and Lisbon.
Good to know: The apartment offers a self-service laundry with a complete set of washing machine and dryer so you don’t have to worry about bringing fewer clothes during your one week in Lisbon.
2.2. Lisboa Pessoa Hotel – Perfect for Couples
Go intimate over the Lisboa Pessoa Hotel that boasts amazing views of Lisbon from their terrace.
And if you’re looking forward to romantic dinners, the Mensagem Restaurant serves dishes inspired by the Portuguese tradition. Located just within the hotel, the restaurant offers a sweet ambiance perfect for couples.
Aside from the spacious rooms and comfy beds, you will get a free minibar topped up every day. And if you’re a bookworm, there’s a library you will appreciate within the hotel.
Lisboa Pessoa Hotel also offers spa services and a fitness center that you and your partner can take advantage of together. There’s also a pool that is open all year round.
Location wise, the hotel puts you near the famous Carmo fountain and convent. While St. Georg’s Castle and Barrio Alto can be reached in 15 minutes by foot.
2.3. Olissippo Lapa Palace – Best for Luxury Travelers
Spoil yourself with spacious and elegant rooms with a balcony view of the Tagus River in Olissippo Lapa Palace.
While some rooms have a view of the river, other rooms offer a view of the beautiful tropical garden and the sunny hotel pool. Expect your room to be well-furnished with enormous yet comfortable beds.
Even though the hotel was an old palace, transformed into a 5-star hotel with grandeur and elegance, still you will surprisingly feel the warmth of a home.
And to make you relax after a long day tour in Lisbon, proceed to the spa center and get yourself a wonderful massage, have a Turkish bath or enjoy a sauna bath.
On the other hand, satisfy your appetite in the hotel restaurant that serves a variation of Mediterranean, Italian and Portuguese cuisine and regional wines.
Moreover, for better nights in your one week in Lisbon, head out to the bar and grab yourself a drink of your favorite cocktail while you enjoy the live music.
Good to know: The hotel is also very family-oriented and kid-friendly where they offer family rooms, children’s television networks, and babysitting services.
2.4. Torel Palace – Great for Design Lovers
Is it possible to stay in a quiet place yet is very close to the city center? In Torel Palace, you could. Escape the city but still be as close, staying in Torel Palace gives you a perfect location for a city break.
The hotel features a breathtaking panoramic view of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and the São Jorge Castle. Moreover, the hotel gives a great value for design since each of its 26 suites are individually and tastefully decorated.
And if ever you’re traveling in a group or traveling with the whole family, Torel Palace also offers a villa and a two-bedroom Apartment.
In addition to this, enjoy the quality buffet breakfast with fresh orange juice and homemade cakes, and typical Portuguese products before you head out.
Likewise, you can dine in Cave 23, a restaurant just within the hotel that serves À la carte meals. However, if you feel like exploring outside the premises, you have a long list of choices of Portuguese restaurants.
And as for the location, reach Barrio Alto in an 8-minutes walk from the Torel Palace as well as the commercial areas of Rua Augusta and Chiado. On the other hand, the Rossio Train Station and the Restauradores Metro Station are also near the hotel.
Good to know: With just a few steps from the property is the oldest Funicular in Lisbon, the Lavra.
2.5. Lisbon Calling – Most Ideal for Groups
Stay in a trendy and quirky hostel located in a 250-year-old building in the heart of the city, stay in Lisbon Calling.
Experience how it is to live as a ‘lisboeta’, and stay in a home away from home, the Lisbon Calling offers private rooms and dormitories with shared bathrooms.
Nevertheless, if you’re looking for an intimate or exclusive, you can choose to stay in a double themed room that offers a huge, tailor-made wooden bunk-beds and get great views of the church square.
While the common kitchen is ideal for cooking your own meals, Lisbon Calling serves daily free buffet breakfast with freshly baked pastries and fresh fruit juices to cereals and milk.
Location wise, it is less than 10 minutes walking from Praca do Commercio, around 5 minutes to the neighborhood Cais do Sodre (nightlife district) and near the metro to take you directly to the airport.
Good to know: You might find it difficult to find the hostel entrance at first glance since there are no signs that tell you its Lisbon Calling. Make sure you ask them for directions or simply mark the hostel on your map.
Check out and save the map we created below. You’ll find it very useful once you come for your one week in Lisbon.
2.6. Jupiter Lisboa Hotel – Great for Solo Travelers
Offering numerous activities and amenities, you got yourself a nice accommodation great for solo travelers in Jupiter Lisboa Hotel.
Treat yourself in a lovely buffet breakfast with a varied menu with international and traditional Portuguese dishes before you head out on a tour in the city. And when you come back in the evening, head to the 24/7 Lisboa Amada lobby bar and grab a beer or two to relax.
Moreover, get spacious rooms that are equipped with a free WiFi, a work desk and a flatscreen TV. Also, expect to have a private bathroom that comes with a walk-in shower, a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Not to mention, the 24-hour room service and front desk that makes sure you are happy and satisfied on your stay. You can ask the front desk of anything you might need which may include a shuttle service, bicycle and car rental, ticket service, luggage storage and a concierge service.
Likewise, you may find the spa and fitness center a plus factor where you can spoil yourself and add more relaxation during your one week in Lisbon.
2.7. Sunset Destination Hostel – Best for an amazing Nightlife
In search of the best nightlife experience yet traveling in a budget? Don’t you worry because we got your back! We proudly lead you to this amazing party place, the Sunset Destination Hostel.
Aside from offering a wonderful panoramic view of the city and the Tagus River, the hostel gives you a spacious terrace with the Zebra bar. You will also find a pool in the rooftop which was also nice.
Sober up with very affordable cocktails and drinks plus, the view is just as sobering especially at night when the city starts to light up and glow.
And if you’re still up for more night adventure, you can join the night activities offered by the hostel like pubcrawls, themed dinner nights, and happy hour. Besides, just 1-minute walk from the hostel is the vibrant night life of Pink Street (Cais do Sodré).
Good to know: The Sunset Destination is located right in Cais do Sodré train station which is very convenient for you to go places in the city and beyond Lisbon.
2.8. Hub Lisbon Patio Hostel
Boasting cool outdoor spaces and designed perfectly for those who want to relax is Hub Lisbon Patio Hostel.
You can choose to stay from mixed rooms to female-only bedrooms and offer a continental breakfast available everyday.
Furthermore, you will find a giant hammock in the common area where you can relax and chill or catch a movie in a big screen. Besides, you can also join the walking tours, happy hour, and pubcrawls offered by the hostel.
And to enjoy more of your stay, it is almost imposible not to win new friends with the other hostel guests. Meet them in the communal kitchen as you prepare meals, start a conversation in the common area or have a game of foosball and PlayStation in the games room.
Good to know: The metro is just 2-minutes walk from the hostel which places you near links to the city’s attractions and more.
3. How to get around
So, we have your accommodation set, now let us get out and explore.
Best for sightseeing: One of the easiest and most convenient ways to see Lisbon is through the famous Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour.
Plan your own tour in a full-day hop-on hop-off sightseeing trip that covers 4 separate routes with over 63 bus stops.
- Belém Line (Red Line) – 21 bus stops
- Oriente Line (Blue Line) – 19 bus stops
- Cascais Line (Orange Line) – 10 bus stops
- Castle Line (Green Line) – 13 bus stops
With this tour, you can Hop-on and off whenever and wherever you want. Thus, giving you the complete power to control everything you want to see and when to see it.
Check more info in Hop on – Hop off Bus.
Public transport: Lisbon’s public transportation is very punctual and remains relatively inexpensive compared to other European capitals.
Here’s a short detail of each public transport system:
- Lisbon Tram – Not only is it one of the best ways to move around Lisbon, but it is also one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
- Metro – The fastest way to get around the city and ideal for long distances.
- Bus – Since the metro puts you in a limit to go around, the public buses are here to the rescue. Sending you to certain trips around the city.
Therefore, you will be able to visit all the corners of the city with ease. Plus, you can use the Lisbon Card for unlimited free access to all the public transport system.
Aside from this, the Lisbon Card also gives you free admission to top attractions and discounts at various landmarks. Not only is it convenient to use, but it also relatively allows you to save more money.
Bikes: Lisbon is still on its way to being a bikeable city. With hills, tram lines, potholes, and cobblestones all over the city, it will take some time for you to go around in bicycles and enjoy a ride.
However, along the coast of the River Tejo and up towards the ocean, you can get a rewarding ride with bike paths. Also, get to see one of the most attractive parts of Lisbon and its sights.
Walking: Just like some cities in Europe, Lisbon was designed to be explored on foot.
Moreover, there are whole areas of Lisbon where the streets are simply too narrow to allow traffic to enter so the best way to beat it is through walking. Besides, get to unlock more of Lisbon by immersing yourself on foot.
Taxi: Taxis in Lisbon are a surprisingly good value for traveling around the city. Unlike the other public transportations, taxis can take you in particular from point A to point B and can be hailed along the streets.
Furthermore, riding taxis are safe to ride even late at night. Also, always insists on using the meter. Because by law, all taxi fares should be calculated using a taximeter that should start with €3.25 during the daytime.
Boat: Another way to see the city of Lisbon is by boats.
You may choose from several types of boats ranging from ferries to traditional boats to motor yachts. Name it, they all have it! Experience River Tejo and go see Lisbon’s tourist sights by boat. Even more, you can also go beyond Lisbon and go on a bird and dolphin-watching trips.
4. What to see in Lisbon – The Must-Do’s
What to see in Lisbon? A very good question!
Lisbon is a perfect combination of the old and modern. More than a multicultural city, it also has world-class restaurants and a reputation for style and history.
The moment you step foot on this city, you’ll instantly fall in love with it as we did.
Here are the most essential places you need to visit on your trip to Lisbon. However, please be reminded that there are some places that it would be helpful to prebook. Just in case you don’t want to wait for ques.
The Must Do’s are:
- Admire the natural beauty of Pena Park and Palace
- Ride the famous Tram 28
- See the iconic monument of Torre de Belém
- Experience Lisbon Oceanarium
- Visit St George’s Castle
- Ride Lisbon’s funiculars
More great sights to see in Lisbon are:
- Alfama District
- Rossio
- National Sanctuary of Christ the King
- Monastery of Jerónimos
- National Museum of Ancient Art
- Mercado da Ribeira
- Bairro Alto
- Feira da Ladra
- Aqueduto das Águas Livres
Photo by Daniel van den Berg
5. Things to do in Lisbon
Packed with great history and culture, Lisbon has every reason for you to love it.
Offering 290 days of sunshine a year, there’s so much you can do with its fair-weather.
So whether you’re here for the first time or the nth time, whether in a fast-track or a three-days trip, Lisbon has an unending list of things to do all throughout the year.
Let me give you some of the best things to do while you’re in the City of Immigrants.
We collected for you a great list of cool Things To Do in Lisbon:
- 29 Fun Things To Do in Lisbon, Portugal
- The Most Romantic Things To Do In Lisbon With Your Sweetheart
- 11 Great Things to Do in Lisbon with Kids
Here are more ideas:
- Drive the streets of Lisbon on a 75-minute GPS guided tour on a GoCar
- Have a taste of Lisbon’s custard tarts
- Go up at one of Lisbon’s Miradoures (amazing viewpoints)
- Climb the Cristo Rei in Cacilhas
- Drink Ginjinha
- Take a cruise in Tagus River
- Have an amazing Lisbon surf experience
6. Tickets you have to buy before (Must Read)
Usually, in this section, we cover tickets that you need to book in advance in order to get in.
These are more likely to be tourist destinations that offer limited access due to its popular demand and are always easy to sell out.
To mention a few examples are the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona or the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Undoubtedly, these are sights you have to prebook to be able to enter.
However, as Lisbon is not a huge destination, there is no sight you would need to prebook. Nevertheless, here are some of the tourist sights in Lisbon you might want to pre-book to skip the long ques.
6.1. Lisbon Oceanarium
If you’re traveling with your family, your kids will surely love the Lisbon Oceanarium. But if you’re traveling solo, its always a good idea to bring out the kid in you.
Discover over 8,000 sea creatures from 500 different species of 4 ocean habitats from all over the world in the largest indoor aquarium in Europe.
Appreciate more of life in the sea through the amazing sea creatures and learn about the complexity of the world’s oceans. Put yourself in the North Atlantic, Antarctic, Temperate Pacific, and Tropical Indian Ocean all in one place.
Good to know: You can pre-book educational activities for schools, families, and organized groups to have a better time in the Oceanarium.
6.2. Torre de Belém
Belém Tower is one of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments being known as UNESCO’s World Heritage Site.
Moreover, the tower was originally built in 1515 at the mouth of the River Tagus to defend the city from attack. Now, it is one of Lisbon’s great architectures that flocks tourists to see.
Go to the top of the tower and get a panoramic view of the historic Belém district and its monuments to the “Age of Discoveries.”
Good to know:
- Your ticket is valid for one year from the date of purchase
- Last admission is at 5:00 PM
- Please note that the tower is closed on Mondays, January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, June 13 and December 25
7. Food & Restaurants
Since we are done discussing about the places and the things to do in Lisbon, let’s now proceed to my favorite part when traveling – FOOD!
Would you agree with me if I say that one great way to know a place is to have a taste of its food?
It’s quite interesting that through its food, you get to know its people, how they make it, and how they have preserved and improvised its recipes through generations.
So without further ado, here are lists of foods you must try and food places you should visit on your one week in Lisbon. Just click the links to discover more food details of the city.
First and foremost, you must try these 13 foods in Lisbon before you leave the city.
And if you’re traveling in Lisbon with your partner, here are some of the nicest romantic restaurants for couples.
However, if you’re in need of a good dose of caffeine in your body, try out these cool cafes in Lisbon for a great coffee.
Moreover, here are the best restaurants to catch a good brunch.
8. Day Trips from Lisbon
One week in Lisbon will certainly give more time to see what lies beyond the city and its neighboring places.
Thus, you have a long list of day trips to choose from. However, we have gathered the best day trips from Lisbon to help you decide faster.
Day Trips from Lisbon we enjoyed:
8.1. Sintra
Sintra offers many tourist attractions which makes it a perfect place for a day trip from Lisbon.
More than its grand palaces, ruinous castles, and opulent 19th-century mansions, Sintra was once the Portuguese Royal Family’s favorite area to escape the heat in Lisbon.
Now, the Pena Park and Palace flock tourists to see the fairytale palaces and beautiful gardens that have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How to get there: You can catch the train from the Rossio Train Station in Lisbon which runs every 30 minutes and takes you less than an hour to get to Sintra.
8.2. Cascais
One of the most popular resort towns of the Lisbon coastline is Cascais, a former summer retreat for the Portuguese nobility.
The main highlight Cascais is its interesting shoreline where you will be able to see a fishing harbor, two glorious beaches, and a restored fort. Also, join many water activities like surfing.
More than just a great historic feel, look forward to their amazing seafood restaurants along the coastal walk that offers a wonderful view of the sea and the sunset.
How to get there: You can take the train from the Cais do Sodre station which will take approximately 40 minutes to get to Cascais.
8.3. Peniche
Peniche is without a doubt a surfer’s paradise in search of the perfect waves on the beaches of Baleal, Medao, and Gamboa. Among these, Medao is the most famous of all especially when the mighty Supertubos waves are present when the big winter swell arrives.
However, the town itself offers more to see. You can visit the fortress built in the 16th century in response to the constant attacks from pirates and foreign countries, relax on Baleal Beach with amazing views, dunes, and sea.
Also just across Peniche is Portugal’s most stunning nature reserves (Berlenga island). Enjoy the wonderful weather in a pirate-like setting where you can kayak, snorkel, and explore the UNESCO Biosphere World Heritage Site.
If you want to be with nature, Berlanga is a great place to start with. Moreover, you will find a lighthouse here, the Fortress of São João Baptista, as well as a small beach, and a couple of restaurants.
How to get there: Ride a bus in Sete Rios bus terminal (metro’s blue line) and will take you 1 and a half hours to get there.
8.4. Cabo da Roca
Visit the westernmost edge of mainland Europe Roca Cape where you will find the priceless view of the Atlantic Ocean and what they call ‘end of the world’.
In Roca Cape, you will find a lighthouse, a cliff with a monument, and beautiful vistas over the Atlantic ocean. There is also a restaurant and souvenir shops in the area so you have all the means to enjoy the beautiful trip to Cado da Roca.
Witness the raging Atlantic Ocean waves as they hit the base of the massive jagged cliffs while challenging hiking trails follow the coastal paths. Also, get amazing photos of the sky and the sea that I am sure will all be Instagram-worthy.
Furthermore, you can visit the cape year-round although this is the only main attraction here. However, you can reach Cabo da Roca from Cascais or Sintra on bus 403. Which makes Cabo da Roca a good combination to a visit to Cascais or Sintra.
How to get there: From Lisbon, you can take the train from Lisboa – Cais Do Sodre Station to Cascais which will take you about an hour to get there. And from Cascais, you can now take the bus 403.
On the other hand, on Bus 403, from Cascais, it will take you 25 minutes to get here while from Sintra it’s 40 minutes.
8.5. Obidos
One of the most picturesque towns of central Portugal on the Atlantic Ocean coast is Obidos.
Aside from the medieval architecture in this town which has been well-preserved through the years, you will also find cobbled streets and ancient houses as you walk through town.
You will also be amazed by its castle built by the Arabs which is now a luxurious hotel, the ‘Porta da Vila’. Moreover, as you go around town, you will find that it is surrounded by ancient walls which protected the place.
Accordingly, Obidos was presented to the Queen of Portugal on her wedding day. A tradition that began with Queen Urraca in 1214 and continued until the 19th century. Later on, Obidos became the favorite holiday spot for the royalty.
Also, during your visit, don’t miss to have a taste of the traditional ‘Ginja’, the cherry liquor in Portugal.
How to get there: You can take the express bus service by the Rodotejo bus company from Lisbon and travel time would be around 1 hour.
Pro tip: Tickets can be purchased to the bus driver. Please be reminded that there are no return tickets to Lisbon. So for a day trip, you must purchase two single tickets when boarding each bus. No reservation or pre-booking is allowed, therefore, I highly suggest that you come early.
9. Itinerary for 7 days
When spending a week in Lisbon, you can explore the city itself and its surroundings.
And since we love helping other travelers out to have the best adventure ever in a specific place, below are itineraries that you could use or guide you through making your own.
- One Week Portugal Itinerary: Discover the Best of Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto
10. Packing List
There are a few things we recommend for your packing list Lisbon.
- Travel plug adapter
- Beach Towel
- Money Belt
- Sun Cream
- Conversation guide in Portuguese
- Portable Charger
Optional but always useful:
11. Printed Guides & Map
These guides are best for the ones looking for a printed version.
Once you come to Lisbon, you will also receive a paper map of the city.
Here is again our map of Lisbon the recommended hotels and neighborhoods.
Questions? Contact us
I tried to make this guide as useful and complete as possible. However, chances are you still have questions left.
Therefore, any questions? Anything not clear?
Please get in touch with us, I would be very happy to help. I want to make this guide as useful as possible for you.
You see, your question actually helps me as well.
Do not be shy and send me an email.