Like Lisbon?
Lisbon is a beloved destination for many travelers. However, like any city, it has its detractors. While many people fall in love with its charm, vibrant culture, and historical significance, others leave feeling underwhelmed. In this post, we’ll dive into the reasons why some visitors and locals alike aren’t enamored with Lisbon. Here are 12 Reasons Why Some People Don’t Like Lisbon.
12 Reasons Why Some People Don’t Like Lisbon
1. Hilly Terrain and Steep Streets
One of the most striking features of Lisbon is its steep hills. While they offer incredible views, some people find the constant uphill climbs exhausting. Walking through Lisbon can feel like a workout, especially in the heat. The cobblestone streets, while picturesque, can also be slippery and difficult to navigate, especially for those with mobility issues or young children. What some call “charm,” others might call a workout they didn’t sign up for!
2. Weather Extremes: Too Hot in Summer
Lisbon’s Mediterranean climate makes it a popular summer destination, but the heat can be overwhelming. During July and August, temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F), and the city’s dense urban layout can trap the heat. With many buildings lacking modern air conditioning, tourists may find themselves struggling to stay cool. If you’re not used to intense heat, the blazing sun can make exploring Lisbon an uncomfortable experience.
3. Overtourism: Crowds Everywhere
Lisbon has exploded in popularity in recent years, and some feel that it’s become a victim of its own success. Iconic areas like Belém, Alfama, and the Baixa-Chiado neighborhood are often packed with tourists, especially during peak season. Lines for trams, monuments, and popular restaurants can be long, leaving visitors frustrated. Some claim the city has lost its authentic charm, overtaken by tour groups and selfie sticks.
4. High Cost of Living (and Visiting)
Though Lisbon used to be seen as an affordable European destination, prices have significantly increased, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Accommodation, dining out, and even simple attractions have become more expensive, causing some to feel the city no longer offers the same value for money it once did. Some visitors leave feeling like Lisbon is overpriced for what it delivers, particularly compared to other European cities like Budapest or Krakow.
5. Pickpocketing and Petty Crime
Like many major tourist cities, Lisbon has its fair share of pickpockets. Crowded areas such as public transport, markets, and tourist attractions are common spots for petty crime. Although the city is generally considered safe, the prevalence of pickpocketing can put a damper on a trip, leaving tourists wary of their surroundings and belongings.
6. Lack of Green Spaces
For nature lovers, Lisbon can feel like a concrete jungle. While there are parks and gardens, they tend to be small and scattered. Larger green spaces like Parque Eduardo VII or Monsanto Forest Park are either too formal or too far from the city center. Those accustomed to cities like Madrid, London, or Berlin, which have expansive parks within walking distance of central areas, may find Lisbon lacking in accessible greenery.
7. Language Barrier
Although many locals in the tourism industry speak English, there are still moments when communication can be a challenge. Portuguese, while beautiful, can be difficult to grasp for non-speakers, and outside of tourist areas, English is less commonly spoken. This can make it harder to navigate day-to-day interactions, whether asking for directions or ordering at a restaurant. Some visitors leave feeling frustrated by their inability to connect with locals or manage simple tasks.
8. Inconsistent Customer Service
Lisbon’s growing tourism industry has led to a rapid expansion of services, but with that growth comes a mixed bag in terms of quality. Some visitors complain about inconsistent customer service in restaurants, hotels, and shops. Whether it’s a long wait for a bill, indifferent staff, or poor communication, these experiences can make visitors feel unwelcome or frustrated.
9. The Gentrification Debate
As Lisbon’s popularity has surged, so too has gentrification. This has led to a cultural shift, particularly in the city center, where traditional neighborhoods have given way to Airbnb apartments and luxury stores. Some tourists feel that Lisbon’s authenticity is being eroded, as the influx of foreign investment and tourism transforms the city into a commercialized hub that caters more to tourists than locals. Critics argue that this has pushed out many local families and driven up prices, making the city feel more like a tourist trap than a living, breathing community.
10. Public Transport: Unreliable and Crowded
Although Lisbon boasts a metro, tram, and bus system, many visitors complain about the inefficiency of the public transport. Trams, especially the iconic Tram 28, are often overcrowded, leaving people waiting for long periods or crammed inside like sardines. Buses and metros are prone to delays, and the hilly terrain can make walking between stops difficult. This lack of reliable transport can be frustrating for visitors who want to explore the city but don’t want to rely on expensive taxis or rideshares.
11. Noise Pollution
Lisbon is a lively city, and with that liveliness comes noise. From street musicians and late-night revelers to honking cars and barking dogs, the noise can be constant. For those staying in central areas, particularly in Bairro Alto or Alfama, the nightlife can stretch into the early hours of the morning. If you’re not a night owl, or if you prefer a quiet evening, the constant noise might keep you from getting a good night’s sleep, making your stay less pleasant.
12. Not Enough to Do for Longer Stays
For those planning extended stays, Lisbon might not have enough to keep them entertained. While there are plenty of sights to see and experiences to enjoy over a few days, some visitors feel that the city lacks the depth of attractions that other European capitals offer. Compared to cities like Paris, London, or Rome, Lisbon’s smaller size and fewer world-famous landmarks might leave travelers feeling like they’ve run out of things to do after just a few days.
Final Thoughts
While Lisbon has its detractors, it’s important to note that these criticisms are subjective. What one person dislikes, another might find charming or enjoyable. The hilly terrain, for example, offers stunning viewpoints, and the vibrant nightlife is exactly what some visitors are after. Ultimately, travel experiences are deeply personal, and while some people might not fall in love with Lisbon, many others do.
Leave a Reply