In this video, we'll show you the top 10 things to do in Lisbon.
This video is based on our fun trip to this beautiful city.
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And stick around until the end because we have a bonus attraction for you.
Here are our top 10 picks:
Number 10: Belém Tower
The Belem Tower, part of UNESCO World Heritage, is one of the most recognizable tourist attractions in Lisbon.
Built in the 16th century, it was considered the gateway to the nation's capital,
strategically located at the mouth of the Tagus River. It was initially
built as a fort to protect the city from incoming raids along the river.
The tower is also a symbol of Europe's Age of Discovery, also known as Age of Exploration,
a period in the 15th and 16th century where some European nations, including Portugal,
began exploring and conquering the world.
Did you know that the tower once stood on an island, but the earthquake of 1755
shifted the river's course, moving the island closer to land?
Don't skip nearby attractions including the statue celebrating the Portuguese Age of Discovery,
and Waterfront Promenade Belém with a fantastic view towards the beautiful 25 de Abril bridge
Number 9: Old-style forms of public transportation
In the late 18-hundreds and the beginning of 20th century,
Lisbon came up with several ingenious transportation solutions
to help locals and visitors tackle the city’s steep hills and enjoy its magnificent sights.
Trams are a popular way to ger around the city, nowadays especially amongst tourists.
These small nostalgic streetcars have been a part of Lisbon’s streets since 1901.
Ride the renowned tram number 28 that passes through the old city and other famous parts of Lisbon.
By the way, did you know that before 1901 trams ran as a horsecar line, but due to Lisbon's steep slopes,
the horses were eventually replaced by a more efficient cable-driven transport.
Funiculars are another fun way to explore Lisbon. Ascensor do Lavra, city’s first funicular,
was inaugurated in 1884. There are others, like Elevador da Glória famous for its colorful street art,
or Bica funicular that will take you through the picturesque part of the city.
Ride the neo-Gothic vertical lift Elevador de Santa Justa connecting downtown and Chiado,
or take advantage of the modern ones, like Lift Castelo.
Number 8: Castel of Saint George
Castel of Saint George, initially surrounded by a wall to form a citadel,
is now an iconic historical complex that played an essential role in the history of Lisbon.
The fortification dates back to the 1st century AD and was occupied by different civilizations,
however, the area was inhabited long before. The site was eventually conquered from the Moors
by the Portuguese military action in the 1147 Siege of Lisbon.
In the 13th century, the castle became a fortified residence for the kings.
Today, visitors can enjoy a walk-through of castle's expansive grounds
that include the ruins of the royal palace,
a permanent exhibition with objects found in the archaeological area,
and several platforms with amazing panoramic views of the city and other attractions.
Of course, you cannot miss funny and loud peacocks roaming around the castle complex,
a sort of unofficial castle permanent residents.
Check our Lisbon walking tour to get the real feel
of the castle and the entire city. The link is in the description.
Number 7: Mercado da Ribeira and other food destinations
One does not fully explore Lisbon without tasting the city's unique cuisine.
Mercado da Ribeira is one of Lisbon's oldest markets
and has been around since the 13th century.
From the early beginning, the market has undergone several upgrades. The market hall,
which features iron interiors and a large oriental dome, was opened in 1882.
The area is divided into the traditional market that sells fresh produce
and a modern food hall with over 30 stalls and bars
serving top-notch Portuguese cuisine as well as food from other parts of the world.
In 2014, the Time Out Market, a venture of Time Out magazine,
took over the food hall part of Mercado da Ribeira.
Don't skip other markets and food destinations across the city,
like the bohemian Lx Factory situated in an old textile factory complex,
now full of trendy bars and restaurants, quirky shops, independent art studios and
Livraria Ler Devagar – one of the most unique bookstores in the world. Walk around cobblestone
streets, sit down in one of many bars or restaurants, and soak up the atmosphere.
Explore Alfama and other districts with traditional taverns and restaurants,
some even offering live fado, a unique genre of music that originated in Lisbon.
Check our travel guide for more suggestions. By the way, our mobile-friendly travel guide
covers the top 20 things to do in Lisbon and things to know before you visit, including maps,
opening hours, links to buy tickets, itinerary suggestions, and other information.
By purchising our travel guide, you are also helping us sustain this channel,
so a big thank you for that!
Number 6: Carmo Convent
Built in the 14th century, Carmo Convent used to be the largest church in Lisbon.
But the Great Earthquake of 1755 destroyed the building, along with much of the city.
Today, visitors can admire its grand arches
and the carvings on the walls that have survived for centuries.
A small archeological museum located at the sacristy features archeological finds
from Portuguese history, including fountains, tombs, and architectural
relics from different styles and areas. The museum also features a 15-minute interactive
video projection describing the convent's history.
Number 5: Lisbon Zoo
No matter your age, a trip to the zoo will always be fun and memorable,
and especially so at the Lisbon Zoo. The zoo founded in 1884,
is the first park with various flora and fauna in the Iberian Peninsula.
Today, Lisbon Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from 300 different species from
all over the globe, including dolphins, tigers, reptiles, primates, and other animals.
The mission of the zoo is also scientific research, conservation
and breeding of endangered species, along with the recreational activities.
Embark on a unique adventure and explore the zoo from a different perspective
and jump on a fascinating 20-minutes cable car ride.
Number 4: Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology
Visit The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology or MAAT opened in 2016.
As the name suggests, it is home to exhibitions in art, architecture, and technology.
Its distinct design stands out, with its prominent location on the banks of the River Tagus.
The museum’s rooftop offers a fantastic views of the 25 de Abril bridge and the city.
Instead of permanent collections, visitors can explore temporary exhibits
by contemporary artists, and other creators like architects, both national and international.
Don't skip Tejo Power Station, situated in a former thermoelectric power plant,
now a permanent exhibition venue.
Lisbon has a long and rich history,
and this is reflected in its numerous museums. Check our travel guide for more suggestions.
Number 3: Jerónimos Monastery
Construction of this massive monastery and a church for the Order of Saint Jerome
began in 1501 but was not completed for another 100 years.
Jerónimos Monastery replaced the old church used by monks providing assistance to sailors in transit.
The monastery is a prime example of Manueline architectural style from the 16th century.
This Portuguese late Gothic style originated in the Portuguese Renaissance
and Age of Discoveries. The style incorporates richly decorated maritime elements carved in
limestone discovered on expeditions of Vasco da Gama and Pedro Álvares Cabral.
Stroll along the two-story cloisters and the Church of Santa Maria,
and it will be easy to understand why Jerónimos Monastery is considered a symbol
of Portugal's immense wealth during the Age of Discoveries.
The monastery, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also a burial place of King Manuel I,
and other prominent figures, like the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama.
Did you know that the recipe for the world-renowned Portuguese custard tarts known
as pastéis de Nata also called pastéis de Belém was created by the monks of Jerónimos Monastery?
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Number 2: Oceanário de Lisboa
Oceanário de Lisboa is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe, home to over 16,000 marine animals
and plants from 450 different species, including sandtiger sharks, cute sea otters,
funny penguins, and other fascinating animals.
Walk around this unique aquarium and experience four different natural habitats
and learn about animal life in their natural environment through information panels.
The oceanarium's main exhibit is a large tank with glass panel windows
strategically placed in various aquarium parts, creating a unique visual experience.
Oceanário de Lisboa is just one of the famous landmarks located
in Parque das Nações, the former site of Expo '98. While in the Expo district,
admire the majestic Vasco da Gama bridge, the longest bridge in Europe, or the beautiful
Torre Vasco da Gama. Hop on the cable car to get a nice view of the entire district.
Number 1: Commerce Square
Praça do Comércio or Commerce Square, overlooking the Tagus River, served as a transportation and commercial hub,
and is now the seat of some of the most important Portuguese state offices.
Walk along Cais das Colunas or Ribeira das Naus to enjoy a historic waterfront area.
One of the most famous attractions in the square is Arco da Rua Augusta,
a stone building commemorating the city's reconstruction after the earthquake in 1755.
Climb the arch to enjoy spectacular views of the square and the city.
The arch entrance reveals Lisbon's main pedestrian area,
Rua Augusta, a bustling street full of shops and restaurants.
The nearby Rossio Square has been one of the main squares in Lisbon
since the Middle Ages. Sit down in one of many cafes or restaurants,
like the historic Café Nicola, and admire traditional Portuguese pavement
style "calçada" and the plaza's baroque fountains and neoclassical architecture.
And here is the bonus that we promised.
If you have some time left, explore Almada district
with Cristo Rei National Sanctuary, a favorite destination for those looking to spend
some quiet time with breathtaking views towards the river and the city. If you find it familiar,
it’s because it resembles the Christ the Redeemer statue of Rio de Janeiro.
Thank you for watching. We wish you an amazing trip to Lisbon!