Too hot to handle?
Lisbon, with its rich culture, stunning views, and vibrant neighborhoods, is a top destination for travelers. But what do you do when the temperature rises and the sun feels like it’s too much to handle? Don’t worry—Lisbon has plenty of indoor and shady options to explore during a heatwave. From relaxing in cool spaces to enjoying shaded streets, here are 10 cool things to do in Lisbon when it’s too hot out. These activities will help you stay refreshed and still make the most of your visit to this beautiful city, no matter how high the mercury climbs!
10 Things To Do In Lisbon When Its Too Hot Out
1. Go to the beach
While Lisbon itself doesn’t have beaches within the city center, it’s just a short trip away from beautiful coastal spots. Praia de Carcavelos, located a quick train ride from the city, offers a long stretch of golden sand and lots of amenities. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a cold drink by the sea.
How to get there: Take the train from Cais do Sodré station to Carcavelos (approx. 20 minutes).
2. Visit the Jardim Botânico Tropical
Looking for a shady retreat? The Jardim Botânico Tropical (Tropical Botanical Garden) is a lush, peaceful escape in the heart of the city. With a wide variety of tropical plants and trees, it’s the perfect place to cool down and take a relaxing stroll.
Insider tip: The garden is a great spot for photography, especially if you love nature and vibrant plant life.
3. Explore Alfama’s Shaded Streets
Alfama is one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods, and its narrow streets offer plenty of shade from the sun. Wander through its historic alleys, take in the stunning views over the river, and stop by a local café for a refreshing drink. The breeze through these quaint streets can offer the perfect respite from the heat.
Bonus: Don’t miss out on some of the best seafood restaurants in Lisbon, where you can enjoy fresh dishes while staying cool inside.
The Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium) is one of Europe’s largest aquariums and a perfect spot to beat the heat. With huge tanks full of vibrant sea life, including sharks, rays, and penguins, you’ll be kept cool while marveling at the underwater world.
Tip: This indoor attraction is fully air-conditioned and offers interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages.
5. Escape the Heat at Lisbon’s Best Shopping Malls
Lisbon has some fantastic shopping malls that are perfect for escaping the heat. Spend time browsing stores, enjoying a meal in the food courts, or just relaxing in the air-conditioned environment. Top malls include:
Centro Vasco da Gama
Colombo Shopping Centre
Amoreiras Shopping Center
6. Explore Lisbon’s Museums
Lisbon is home to a wide range of museums, offering a cool, cultural escape from the sun. Visit:
Museu Nacional do Azulejo: Discover the history of Portugal’s iconic ceramic tiles.
Museu Calouste Gulbenkian: Admire impressive art collections from around the world.
Museu Coleção Berardo: Check out contemporary art from global artists.
These museums offer cool, air-conditioned spaces and fascinating exhibits to enjoy during the hottest parts of the day.
7. Take a Dip in a Lisbon Swimming Pool
If you’re looking for a refreshing way to cool down, Lisbon has plenty of public swimming pools. A few of the most popular include:
Piscina do Oriente: Located in the Parque das Nações area.
Piscina do Casal Vistoso: Set in a lovely park, perfect for relaxing by the pool.
Piscina do Clube Estefânia: Another great option for a swim and a sunbathe.
Many pools have outdoor areas where you can lounge and soak up the sun while staying cool in the water.
8. Take a Stroll Down Avenida da Liberdade
Avenida da Liberdade is Lisbon’s grand boulevard lined with lush trees that offer plenty of shade. It’s a perfect spot to take a leisurely stroll, grab a coffee, and enjoy the breeze. You’ll also find high-end shops and cafés along the way, making it a pleasant experience even in the heat.
If the heat is too much for walking, consider taking a tuk-tuk tour of Lisbon. These small three-wheeled vehicles are a fun and shaded way to explore Lisbon’s narrow streets. A tuk-tuk driver will show you the city’s highlights, from historic neighborhoods to scenic viewpoints, all while keeping you cool.
Pro Tip: Tuk-tuks are a great way to access areas that may be harder to reach on foot, like the Alfama district or Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
10. Relax with a Cold Drink at a Scenic Café or Bar
Lisbon’s cafés and rooftop bars are ideal for cooling off on a hot day. Enjoy a cold drink at one of these popular spots:
Café A Brasileira: A historic café located in Chiado.
Gin Lovers & Less: A trendy bar serving refreshing gin cocktails.
Park Bar: A rooftop bar with stunning views of Lisbon and a great spot for enjoying the sunset.
Take a break and relax while sipping on a chilled drink in one of Lisbon’s most charming venues.
Wrap Up: Stay Cool and Enjoy Lisbon
Lisbon’s summer heat can be intense, but there’s no need to let it slow you down. With these cool things to do in Lisbon when it’s too hot out, you can still enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer. Whether you’re exploring air-conditioned museums, relaxing by the water, or strolling through shaded streets, Lisbon has something for every traveler—no matter the temperature.
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