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Lisbon is one of those cities that looks deceptively easy to visit.
The weather is usually good, the food is approachable, English is widely spoken, and many of the biggest sights are packed into a relatively compact area. You can arrive in the morning, wander around Baixa, ride a famous yellow tram, eat some pastéis de nata and feel as though you’ve got Lisbon figured out.
But after living in Lisbon for several years and working as a tour guide, I’ve seen how quickly a seemingly simple city break can become frustrating.
The problem isn’t that Lisbon is difficult. It’s that Lisbon rewards a little preparation.
Its hills are steeper than they look on a map. Its historic trams can be much busier than visitors expect. Some of the city’s most interesting neighbourhoods aren’t particularly close to one another. Public transport has its quirks, restaurant opening hours can catch you out, and the beautiful cobbled pavements that look wonderful in photographs are not always your feet’s best friend.
And then there are the mistakes that are less obvious.
Visitors sometimes spend an entire day following the same route as thousands of other tourists, only to wonder why Lisbon felt crowded and expensive. Others stay exclusively in Baixa and never really discover the neighbourhoods that give the city its character. Some make the understandable mistake of treating Lisbon like a flat European capital, only to discover that their shoes, knees and legs strongly disagree.
I’ve made enough observations over the years to know that the best Lisbon advice isn’t always about where to go. Sometimes it’s about knowing what not to do.
So, whether this is your first trip to Portugal or you’re returning for another weekend in the capital, here are the most common mistakes tourists make in Lisbon — and, more importantly, what I recommend doing instead.
Lisbon Tourist Mistakes: At a Glance
Planning a trip to Lisbon? Here are some of the biggest mistakes to avoid before you arrive:
- 🚋 Riding Tram 28 at the busiest time — Go early or later in the day to avoid the worst crowds.
- 👟 Wearing uncomfortable shoes — Lisbon’s hills and cobbled pavements can be tough on your feet.
- ⛰️ Underestimating the hills — A short distance on a map can involve a surprisingly steep climb.
- 🏨 Staying only in Baixa — Central Lisbon is convenient, but the city’s character extends far beyond the historic centre.
- 🏛️ Skipping Belém — Don’t miss one of Lisbon’s most important historic areas simply because it’s popular with tourists.
- 🥧 Thinking every pastel de nata is the same — Try them from different bakeries and discover your favourite.
- 🍽️ Assuming table appetisers are free — Bread, olives, cheese and other items may be charged as couvert.
- 🎟️ Getting public transport tickets wrong — Make sure you understand the current ticket and validation rules.
- 🕐 Trying to see too much in one day — Leave plenty of time for walking, queues, meals and unexpected discoveries.
- 🚆 Rushing Sintra and Cascais — Both deserve more time than a quick tick on a day-trip checklist.
- 🌆 Only visiting famous viewpoints — Some of Lisbon’s best moments come from simply wandering.
- 📸 Treating Lisbon like a photo checklist — Put the camera away occasionally and actually enjoy the city.
- 🏘️ Forgetting Lisbon is a living city — Be considerate of the people who live and work in its historic neighbourhoods.
- 📱 Following Instagram itineraries too closely — Use them for inspiration, not as a schedule you must obey.
- ❤️ Trying to do everything on your first visit — Lisbon is best enjoyed at a slower pace.
The short version? Wear good shoes, plan around the hills, book the things that matter, learn the basics of public transport — and leave yourself plenty of time to simply enjoy Lisbon.
Mistakes Tourists Make in Lisbon: 25 Things to Avoid on Your First Visit
1. Riding Tram 28 at Noon
Let’s start with probably the most famous Lisbon tourist mistake.
Taking Tram 28 is not a mistake. Taking it at the busiest possible time can be.
The historic Tram 28 is one of Lisbon’s signature experiences. It rattles through some of the city’s most atmospheric streets, climbs hills that look almost impossible for a tram, and passes through neighbourhoods including Graça, Alfama and Baixa.
Naturally, everybody wants to ride it.
The problem is that everybody else has the same idea.
During the busiest parts of the day, queues can become long, trams can arrive already packed, and the experience can turn from romantic sightseeing into standing shoulder-to-shoulder while trying not to lose your belongings.
If you’re determined to ride Tram 28, go early in the morning if your schedule allows. Alternatively, consider travelling later in the afternoon when the crowds begin to ease.
There’s another trick that many first-time visitors don’t consider: you don’t necessarily need to ride the entire route.
Sometimes, riding a shorter section and then exploring the neighbourhood on foot gives you a much better experience than spending ages waiting for a tram simply because it is famous.
And remember that Tram 28 is public transport, not a sightseeing attraction exclusively for tourists. Keep your belongings secure, allow passengers to get on and off, and don’t block the doors while taking photographs.
Local tip: If your main goal is simply to experience one of Lisbon’s classic yellow trams, don’t become obsessed with Tram 28 specifically. Other historic tram routes can provide the atmosphere without quite the same level of tourist congestion.
2. Wearing the Wrong Shoes
This is perhaps the least glamorous piece of Lisbon advice — and one of the most important.
Bring comfortable shoes. Seriously.
Lisbon’s famous calçada portuguesa, or Portuguese pavement, is beautiful. The small limestone stones create intricate patterns across many of the city’s streets and squares, and they’re an unmistakable part of Lisbon’s visual identity.
They can also be surprisingly slippery.
Add steep hills, uneven surfaces, steps, long walks and the temptation to explore “just one more street”, and Lisbon can be tough on footwear — and feet.
I’ve watched visitors set off for a full day of sightseeing in completely inappropriate shoes because their itinerary looked short on Google Maps. Then they discover that a kilometre in Lisbon doesn’t necessarily feel like a kilometre on a flat city street.
Leave the uncomfortable fashion shoes at the hotel.
Trainers or another pair of supportive walking shoes are usually your best friend. If you’re visiting during wet weather, grip becomes even more important because polished stone can become slippery.
This is particularly relevant if you’re planning to explore Alfama, Graça, Mouraria, Bairro Alto or parts of Estrela.
And don’t make the mistake of thinking that because you’re taking public transport, you won’t walk much.
You probably will.
Lisbon is one of those cities where the best moments often happen between the attractions — walking around a corner, discovering a tiny square, finding a viewpoint or stumbling across a street you never saw in your itinerary.
Comfortable shoes don’t just prevent sore feet. They give you the freedom to explore.
3. Treating Lisbon Like a Flat City
One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors is just how hilly Lisbon is.
The city is sometimes described as being built on seven hills, although the exact number is more complicated than the popular saying suggests. What matters for tourists is much simpler:
Lisbon has hills. Lots of them.
A route that looks perfectly manageable on a map can involve a surprisingly steep climb.
This is why I recommend thinking about your sightseeing geographically rather than simply creating a list of attractions and ticking them off in random order.
For example, if you’re exploring Alfama, give yourself time to actually explore it rather than walking down from one attraction and then immediately climbing another enormous hill somewhere else.
Likewise, don’t underestimate the distance between neighbourhoods just because they look close together on a map.
Lisbon’s hills can also affect how you plan your evenings. You might happily walk around for hours during the day, but after dinner, the thought of climbing several blocks back to your accommodation can feel considerably less appealing.
Use public transport strategically.
The Metro is excellent for certain journeys. Trams, buses, trains, funiculars and lifts can all save your legs depending on where you’re going.
And sometimes the best option is simply a taxi or ride-hailing service when you’ve reached the point where another hill is no longer part of the adventure.
A good Lisbon itinerary isn’t necessarily the one that covers the most ground.
It’s the one that leaves you with enough energy to enjoy the ground you’ve covered.
4. Staying Only in Baixa
Baixa is a perfectly sensible place to stay in Lisbon.
It’s central, convenient, relatively easy to navigate, and close to many major attractions. For a first visit, it can be an excellent base.
The mistake is assuming that Baixa is Lisbon.
It isn’t.
Baixa is the city’s grand, relatively orderly centre, with its broad streets and elegant squares. But some of Lisbon’s personality comes from the neighbourhoods surrounding it.
Spend time in Alfama and you’ll encounter winding streets, old houses, viewpoints and one of the city’s strongest connections to its historic character.
Head towards Graça for a different atmosphere and some wonderful viewpoints.
Explore Mouraria and you’ll find a neighbourhood with a fascinating multicultural history and a very different feel from the postcard version of Lisbon.
Go west towards Estrela, Campo de Ourique or Lapa and you’ll experience quieter residential areas where daily Lisbon life becomes much more apparent.
And then there’s Príncipe Real, Chiado, Alcântara and others, each offering something different.
Don’t spend your entire trip moving between Baixa’s Praça do Comércio, Rossio and Rua Augusta.
They’re worth seeing. But they’re only the beginning.
One of my favourite things about Lisbon is that the atmosphere can change dramatically after just a short walk.
If you’re choosing accommodation, you can also look beyond Baixa. Depending on your priorities, staying in Chiado, Príncipe Real, Avenida da Liberdade, Alfama, Estrela or another neighbourhood may give you a more interesting experience.
5. Skipping Belém Because It’s “Too Tourist-y”
Yes, Belém is touristy.
There’s a reason.
Belém contains some of Lisbon’s most important monuments and attractions, including the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. It’s also home to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery.
You don’t have to love every attraction there, but completely skipping Belém because other tourists visit it would be a mistake.
The better approach is to visit strategically.
Belém is west of central Lisbon, so don’t treat it as though it’s just another attraction around the corner from Rossio. Give yourself a proper half-day if you want to explore it comfortably.
You can combine the major sights with a walk along the riverfront, gardens and nearby museums.
And yes, you should probably try a pastel de nata while you’re there.
Just remember that Pastéis de Belém and pastel de nata aren’t quite the same thing. The bakery’s famous pastries have their own history and recipe, and the shop has become an institution.
Belém is particularly pleasant when you don’t rush it.
Rather than racing from monument to monument, walk, look around and take advantage of the riverside setting.
If you’re short on time, you can still see the highlights. But don’t make the classic mistake of thinking Lisbon’s historic centre is the only part of the city worth visiting.
6. Thinking Every Pastel de Nata Is the Same
Speaking of pastéis de nata…
Visitors sometimes treat them as though they’re simply a generic Portuguese version of a custard tart.
That undersells them.
A good pastel de nata should have a crisp, flaky pastry shell and a creamy, gently caramelised custard filling. They’re best eaten fresh and, depending on the bakery, you may be offered cinnamon and icing sugar to sprinkle over the top.
But here’s the important point:
You don’t have to spend your entire trip queueing for one famous bakery.
Lisbon has plenty of excellent places to try pastéis de nata.
If you see an enormous queue outside a famous establishment, don’t automatically assume that the pastry inside is going to be dramatically better than every other pastel de nata you’ll encounter.
Sometimes it is. Sometimes the experience is simply part of the attraction.
Try them in different places.
Compare them.
Have one with your morning coffee. Have another during an afternoon break.
Food is one of the best ways to experience Lisbon, and Portuguese cuisine goes far beyond pastel de nata.
Try bacalhau, grilled fish, bifana, caldo verde, octopus, sardines when they’re in season, petiscos and regional Portuguese wines.
Don’t build your entire food itinerary around Instagram-famous dishes.
Some of the most memorable meals I’ve had in Lisbon have been much less photogenic.
7. Eating Dinner at the Same Time as Everyone Back Home
Lisbon’s dining schedule can take some getting used to.
Many visitors arrive expecting dinner at 5:30 or 6:00 p.m., particularly if they’re accustomed to northern European or North American schedules.
In Lisbon, dinner is often later.
That doesn’t mean restaurants won’t serve you early. Tourist-heavy areas have plenty of establishments accustomed to international schedules.
But if you want to experience the city more like a local, don’t be surprised if dinner starts around 8 or 9 p.m.
There’s another reason not to eat at the first restaurant you see.
The areas immediately around major tourist attractions contain restaurants catering heavily to visitors. Some are excellent. Others are less memorable and considerably more expensive than they need to be.
Look at menus before sitting down.
Check prices.
See whether the restaurant is full of locals or entirely dependent on passing tourists.
And don’t be afraid to walk a few streets away from the busiest tourist corridor.
One of the best things you can do in Lisbon is turn dinner into part of the evening rather than something you need to squeeze between attractions.
8. Assuming the Bread, Olives and Cheese on the Table Are Free
This one catches people out.
You sit down in a Portuguese restaurant and, before ordering, someone brings bread, olives, cheese, butter or another small appetiser to the table.
It can look like a complimentary welcome.
It usually isn’t.
These couvert items are generally charged if you eat them.
That doesn’t mean you’re being scammed.
It’s a normal restaurant practice in Portugal, and the prices should be listed on the menu.
If you don’t want them, you can politely tell the server that you don’t need them. If you’ve already eaten something, expect to pay for it.
The important thing is simply to know how the system works.
This is a classic example of why doing a tiny amount of research before travelling can prevent an awkward moment at the end of a meal.
And if you see something on the table that you’re unsure about, just ask.
There’s no shame in saying, “Is this included?”
9. Trying to See Lisbon Without Checking Opening Days and Times
This is one of the easiest mistakes to avoid.
Lisbon’s attractions don’t all operate on the same schedule, and some museums and monuments close on particular days.
You don’t want to spend an hour travelling across the city only to discover that the place you planned to visit is closed.
This becomes particularly important when you’re planning a short Lisbon city break.
If you’ve only got two or three days, an unexpected closure can completely disrupt your itinerary.
Check official opening hours before visiting major attractions, especially if a particular museum, monastery or monument is one of the main reasons you’re going.
Also remember that opening hours can change seasonally.
Don’t rely entirely on a blog post written several years ago — including mine. Information about opening times, prices and access can change.
Use travel guides for planning and context, but check official sources for the details that matter immediately before your visit.
That’s especially true for popular attractions where timed tickets are involved.
10. Not Booking Popular Attractions in Advance
Lisbon has become increasingly popular, and some attractions can attract substantial queues.
If there’s one place you absolutely don’t want to miss, don’t automatically assume you can simply turn up and walk inside.
This is particularly relevant during the busiest travel periods.
Timed-entry tickets can save you considerable time, and some experiences sell out.
The trick is not to book every single minute of your holiday.
That can make a city break exhausting.
Instead, identify the attractions that are genuinely important to you and book those in advance. Leave gaps in your schedule for wandering, eating and discovering places you hadn’t planned.
If you want guided experiences rather than organising everything yourself, tours can also be useful for making the most of limited time.
Another option is GetYourGuide, particularly if you prefer booking experiences and guided tours through one platform.
The key is to book the important things, not your entire holiday.
11. Assuming You Can Just Tap Any Bank Card on Public Transport
Lisbon’s public transport system is extremely useful, but the ticketing system isn’t something I’d recommend guessing your way through.
Depending on the transport you’re using and the ticket you’re buying, there are different options involving Viva Viagem cards, rechargeable travel cards, individual tickets and other fare products.
The important thing is to understand what you’re buying before boarding.
And if you’re using a ticket that requires validation, validate it correctly.
This sounds boring until you realise that an incorrect ticket can potentially result in a fine.
Don’t assume that because you’ve used contactless transport systems in London, Paris or another European city, every part of Lisbon’s network works in exactly the same way.
The system also varies between Metro, buses, trams and other operators.
If you’re going to use public transport extensively, spend a few minutes learning the current ticketing arrangements when you arrive.
It’s one of those small pieces of preparation that can save you both money and stress.
12. Not Validating Your Ticket
This deserves its own warning because it’s one of those mistakes that can happen even when you’ve already bought a perfectly legitimate ticket.
Buying a ticket and using a ticket are not necessarily the same thing.
Some Lisbon transport tickets need to be validated or activated before travel.
If you’re unfamiliar with the system, look for the validation machines and make sure you’ve followed the instructions applicable to your ticket.
Don’t wait until you’re already inside the vehicle to start wondering whether you did it correctly.
And keep your ticket or travel card accessible during your journey.
Inspectors do operate on Lisbon’s public transport.
The golden rule is simple:
Never assume. Check the instructions for the exact ticket you’re using.
Because public transport rules and fare systems can change, this is another situation where current official information is more reliable than something a traveller posted on a forum five years ago.
13. Taking a Taxi Directly From the Airport Without Checking the Alternatives
Lisbon Airport is conveniently located relatively close to the city centre.
That means you have options.
The Metro can be extremely useful for many travellers, while taxis and ride-hailing services can make more sense if you’re travelling with lots of luggage, children or several people together.
The mistake isn’t taking a taxi.
The mistake is assuming you have no other choice.
If you arrive during a busy period, understand your options before you leave the terminal.
If you do take a taxi, use the official taxi rank rather than accepting unsolicited offers from people approaching you inside or around the airport.
Also consider your accommodation’s exact location.
A taxi may be worthwhile if you’re staying somewhere difficult to reach with luggage, particularly in a hilly neighbourhood.
On the other hand, if you’re staying near a Metro station, public transport may be considerably cheaper and straightforward.
Choose based on your situation rather than assuming one option is always best.
14. Underestimating How Long It Takes to Get Around
Lisbon isn’t enormous.
But getting around isn’t always as quick as the map suggests.
Traffic can be heavy. Trams can be crowded. Buses can take longer than expected. Hills slow you down. And sometimes you simply stop because you’ve found a viewpoint that deserves ten minutes of your time.
That’s why I recommend building breathing room into your itinerary.
Don’t schedule something in Belém at 2:00 p.m. and another appointment in Alfama at 2:45 p.m. simply because Google Maps says the journey can theoretically be completed within that time.
Travel rarely works perfectly.
Allow time for queues, wrong turns, photographs, coffee stops and the occasional “let’s just see what’s down there” detour.
You’ll enjoy Lisbon much more when you’re not constantly checking the clock.
15. Trying to See Sintra, Cascais and Lisbon in One Day
This is an ambitious itinerary that looks fantastic on paper.
Lisbon in the morning.
Back to Lisbon for dinner.
Technically, you can do all sorts of things in one day.
But should you?
Usually not.
Sintra deserves time.
The historic town, palaces, gardens and surrounding landscape make it a completely different experience from central Lisbon.
If you race through Sintra just to say you’ve been there, you’re likely to spend much of the day travelling, queueing and looking at your watch.
The same applies to Cascais.
If you’ve got a week in Portugal, wonderful — you can explore all three comfortably.
If you’ve got only three days in Lisbon, I’d rather see you experience Lisbon properly than turn one day into a transport marathon.
And if you really want to visit Sintra but don’t want to organise every connection and ticket yourself, a guided day trip can be a practical solution.
👉 You can compare organised Sintra and Cascais excursions on GetYourGuide and choose one that fits your schedule and interests. See Sintra experiences on GetYourGuide
The goal of a day trip isn’t to collect destinations.
It’s to actually experience them.
16. Spending the Entire Evening in Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is famous for nightlife.
And yes, you should experience it if that’s your kind of thing.
But there’s a common mistake here: assuming that because Bairro Alto is famous for nightlife, you need to spend your entire Lisbon evening there.
You don’t.
Lisbon’s nightlife is spread across several areas, and the atmosphere changes considerably from one neighbourhood to another.
Bairro Alto is lively, compact and packed with bars. It’s particularly atmospheric when the streets start filling in the evening.
But nearby areas such as Cais do Sodré, Príncipe Real and other parts of the city offer different experiences.
If you’re not a big nightlife person, don’t force yourself into an itinerary designed around drinking simply because a guidebook says Bairro Alto is “a must”.
Instead, consider an evening walk, a relaxed Portuguese dinner, live Fado or a drink at a viewpoint.
Lisbon after dark isn’t just about bars.
17. Expecting Fado to Be a Free Street Performance
Fado is one of Lisbon’s defining musical traditions, and experiencing it can be genuinely memorable.
But some visitors misunderstand what they’re looking for.
Fado isn’t simply a touristy song that happens to be performed in restaurants.
At its best, it’s an intimate musical tradition with deep roots in Portuguese culture, often associated with themes of longing, love, loss and saudade.
If you’d like to experience it properly, consider attending a dedicated Fado performance or choosing a reputable Fado venue.
And don’t expect the experience to resemble a loud pub with a singer performing in the corner.
Traditional Fado often works best in a quieter, intimate setting.
If a Fado evening interests you, research the venue rather than simply walking into the first place with a Fado sign outside.
A good performance can become one of your favourite memories of Lisbon.
18. Assuming Every “Local” Restaurant Is Authentic
This is a tricky one because authenticity isn’t always as simple as a restaurant being good or bad.
Lisbon is an international tourist destination.
Of course there are restaurants specifically catering to tourists.
That doesn’t automatically mean they’re terrible.
Likewise, a restaurant hidden down a tiny alley with a rustic interior isn’t automatically authentic or excellent.
Don’t judge solely by appearance.
Look at the menu.
Check whether prices are clearly displayed.
Read recent reviews if you’re unsure.
See what kind of food they’re actually serving.
And, whenever possible, ask someone local for a recommendation.
One of the benefits of living in Lisbon was discovering places that weren’t necessarily on every tourist’s itinerary.
Sometimes the best restaurant isn’t the one with the prettiest Instagram account. It’s the small place where people are eating because it’s Tuesday night and that’s simply where they go.
19. Visiting Only the Famous Miradouros
Lisbon’s viewpoints — miradouros — are fantastic.
The city was practically designed for them.
From high points around neighbourhoods such as Alfama and Graça, you can see the rooftops cascading towards the Tagus, historic churches rising above the buildings and the city’s famous red roofs stretching into the distance.
But there’s a temptation to treat viewpoints like collectible attractions.
“Miradouro number one: done.”
“Miradouro number two: done.”
You don’t need to do that.
Instead, pick a couple and actually enjoy them.
Go at different times of day.
Watch the city wake up in the morning.
Return around sunset.
Have a drink or coffee nearby.
And don’t ignore the smaller viewpoints you discover while wandering.
Some of the best views aren’t necessarily the ones that appear in every “Top 10 Lisbon viewpoints” article.
This is another reason not to over-plan your day.
Lisbon rewards wandering.
20. Spending All Your Time Taking Photos of Lisbon Instead of Experiencing It
This sounds obvious, but it’s surprisingly easy to do.
Lisbon is photogenic almost everywhere.
The yellow trams.
Azulejos.
Miradouros.
Pastéis de nata.
The Tagus.
Pink sunsets.
Narrow streets.
Colourful façades.
It can feel like every five minutes there’s another photograph you have to take.
Take the photos.
Absolutely.
But occasionally put the phone away.
Sit at a miradouro for ten minutes without taking a picture.
Have coffee without photographing it.
Walk through Alfama without worrying whether you’re going in the “right” direction.
Watch the tram disappear around the corner rather than immediately reaching for your camera.
The best Lisbon memories aren’t always the ones that make it onto Instagram.
21. Expecting Lisbon to Be Cheap Everywhere
Portugal is often perceived as an inexpensive destination compared with some other Western European capitals.
Lisbon can still offer good value.
But Lisbon is not uniformly cheap.
Prices vary enormously depending on neighbourhood, restaurant, attraction, accommodation and season.
Tourist-heavy areas can be surprisingly expensive, particularly for accommodation and dining.
If you’re travelling on a budget, don’t assume that simply being in Portugal guarantees cheap prices.
Instead, compare accommodation carefully, eat away from the most tourist-heavy streets when possible, use public transport, and look for experiences that don’t require an entrance fee.
Some of Lisbon’s best activities are free.
Walking through historic neighbourhoods costs nothing.
Many viewpoints are free.
A walk beside the Tagus is free.
Exploring the city’s streets is free.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to have a fantastic Lisbon trip.
22. Only Visiting During the Middle of the Day
Lisbon can feel like a completely different city at different times of day.
Midday is often the busiest period around major attractions.
Early morning can be quiet and atmospheric.
Late afternoon can be beautiful.
Evening brings a different energy altogether.
If you’re visiting somewhere particularly popular, consider going early rather than automatically following the standard 10 a.m.–6 p.m. sightseeing pattern.
This is particularly useful for photographers and anyone who dislikes crowds.
There is also something special about Lisbon early in the morning.
The streets are quieter.
Cafés begin opening.
Shopkeepers are setting up.
The city feels less like a tourist destination and more like a place where people actually live.
You don’t have to wake up at 5 a.m. to experience this.
Just getting out before the main sightseeing crowds arrive can make a surprisingly big difference.
23. Forgetting That Lisbon Is a Real City Where People Live
This might be the most important mistake on the entire list.
Lisbon isn’t an open-air museum.
People live here.
They work here.
They take children to school here.
They commute on the trams.
They buy groceries.
They go to restaurants.
They have neighbours.
And sometimes they simply want to walk down their own street without someone stopping in the middle of the pavement for a photograph.
Be respectful when exploring residential neighbourhoods.
Don’t shout outside people’s homes late at night.
Don’t block doorways.
Don’t enter private courtyards because they look interesting.
Don’t assume that every beautiful balcony or doorway is a photo prop.
And remember that public transport is used by residents who may be going to work rather than sightseeing.
Being a good tourist isn’t about seeing less. It’s about being considerate while seeing it.
This also changes the way you experience the city.
Once you stop thinking of Lisbon as a collection of attractions and start seeing it as a living city, the experience becomes much richer.
24. Trying to Follow a Perfect Instagram Lisbon Itinerary
There are hundreds of Lisbon itineraries online.
Some are useful.
Some are wildly optimistic.
And many assume you can move from one attraction to another without stopping, getting lost, eating, resting or encountering a queue.
Don’t let somebody else’s itinerary dictate your entire holiday.
Use guides like this one to understand the city and avoid obvious mistakes, but build your own trip around what you actually enjoy.
If you love food, spend more time eating.
If architecture fascinates you, explore churches and historic buildings.
If you enjoy photography, chase viewpoints.
If you prefer slow travel, sit in cafés and wander neighbourhoods.
If museums aren’t your thing, don’t spend half a day inside one simply because it’s listed as “essential”.
There is no prize for seeing the most attractions.
A successful Lisbon trip isn’t measured by how many items you tick off.
It’s measured by whether you come home thinking:
“I really enjoyed being there.”
25. Trying to Do Everything on Your First Visit
Finally, the biggest mistake of all.
Trying to see everything.
Lisbon has enough attractions, neighbourhoods, museums, viewpoints, restaurants, day trips and experiences to keep you busy for much longer than a typical city break.
You don’t need to conquer the entire city in three days.
In fact, I would argue that you shouldn’t.
Pick the major things you genuinely care about.
See a few iconic sights.
Explore at least two or three neighbourhoods beyond the obvious centre.
Eat well.
Leave some unplanned time.
Sit somewhere with a view.
Take a tram.
Walk without a destination for a while.
And if you miss something?
That’s fine.
Lisbon will still be here.
One of the advantages of having lived in Lisbon and spent time showing visitors around is that I’ve learned that people often remember the moments they didn’t plan just as much as the attractions they specifically travelled to see.
The perfect Lisbon itinerary isn’t packed from breakfast until bedtime.
It’s one that gives you enough structure to see what matters while leaving enough room for the city to surprise you.
Your 10-Minute Lisbon Mistake-Proofing Checklist
You don’t need to spend hours researching Lisbon before your trip. A few minutes of preparation can prevent many of the most common problems.
Before you leave for Portugal, I’d quickly check these things:
- Check your accommodation location and see how close it is to Metro, tram or bus connections.
- Look at the hills around your hotel — the distance on Google Maps doesn’t tell you how steep the route might be.
- Pack comfortable shoes with decent grip.
- Check the opening days and times of the attractions you most want to visit.
- Book your must-see attractions in advance if timed entry or advance tickets are available.
- Decide when you’re going to ride Tram 28 rather than simply turning up at midday.
- Learn the basics of Lisbon’s public transport ticket system before your first journey.
- Save your accommodation address on your phone so you can easily show it to a driver if necessary.
- Research a few restaurants near where you’re staying, rather than relying entirely on whatever you find when you’re hungry.
- Leave at least one part of your itinerary completely free.
That last one might sound strange, but it’s important.
Lisbon isn’t a city I recommend experiencing entirely according to a spreadsheet.
Give yourself permission to wander.
You might find a viewpoint you didn’t know existed, discover a tiny restaurant, hear music coming from a doorway or simply find yourself sitting somewhere with a coffee for considerably longer than planned.
Those moments are part of the Lisbon experience too.
❓Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Lisbon
❓What is the biggest mistake tourists make in Lisbon?
One of the biggest mistakes is trying to see too much in too little time. Lisbon is a hilly city, and travelling between neighbourhoods can take longer than expected. A packed itinerary can leave you exhausted rather than allowing you to enjoy the city. Give yourself plenty of time to walk, eat, explore and make unexpected discoveries.
❓Is Tram 28 worth riding in Lisbon?
Yes, Tram 28 is worth riding, but timing matters. It can become extremely crowded during the busiest parts of the day, so consider going early or later when possible. Keep your belongings secure and remember that it is also a normal public transport service used by local residents.
❓What should I wear when walking around Lisbon?
Comfortable shoes with good grip are essential. Lisbon has steep hills, stairs and distinctive Portuguese calçada pavement, which can become slippery when wet. Avoid uncomfortable shoes, high heels and footwear with poor grip if you’re planning to spend the day exploring on foot.
❓Is Lisbon difficult to walk around?
Lisbon is very walkable, but it isn’t flat. The historic centre is compact enough to explore on foot, but the city’s hills can make relatively short distances surprisingly tiring. Plan your route around the terrain and use public transport when it makes sense.
❓Should I stay in Baixa when visiting Lisbon?
Baixa is an excellent base for many first-time visitors, but you don’t have to stay there. Chiado, Príncipe Real, Avenida da Liberdade, Alfama, Estrela and other neighbourhoods can offer very different experiences. Choose your location based on the atmosphere and convenience you want rather than simply searching for the most central address.
❓Is Belém worth visiting in Lisbon?
Absolutely. Belém is one of the most worthwhile areas to visit, particularly if you’re interested in Lisbon’s history and architecture. The Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, Monument to the Discoveries and riverside area can easily fill several hours.
❓Do I need to book Lisbon attractions in advance?
For some of Lisbon’s most popular attractions, booking ahead can save time and disappointment, particularly during busy periods. You don’t need to pre-book every part of your holiday, but it’s sensible to reserve attractions or experiences that you consider essential.
❓Is Lisbon expensive for tourists?
Lisbon can still offer good value compared with some European capitals, but prices vary considerably. Tourist-heavy areas, central accommodation and popular restaurants can be expensive. Travellers on a budget can save money by using public transport, comparing accommodation and eating away from the busiest tourist streets.
❓Is it safe to ride Lisbon’s trams?
Lisbon’s trams are an important part of the city’s public transport system and are generally safe to use. However, crowded tourist routes require normal precautions. Keep wallets, phones and bags secure, particularly when boarding or standing in crowded areas.
❓Do restaurants in Lisbon charge for bread and olives?
Often, yes. Bread, olives, cheese, butter and other items placed on your table may form part of the restaurant’s couvert and can be charged separately. Check the menu or ask your server if you’re unsure. If you don’t want something brought to the table, you can politely decline it.
❓What time do people eat dinner in Lisbon?
Dinner in Lisbon is generally later than visitors from some northern European countries may be accustomed to. Around 8:00 or 9:00 p.m. is perfectly normal, although restaurants in tourist areas often accommodate earlier diners.
❓Can I visit Lisbon, Sintra and Cascais in one day?
You technically can, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Trying to combine all three usually means spending much of the day travelling and rushing between attractions. If you have enough time, give Lisbon, Sintra and Cascais their own days or allow substantially more time for each.
❓How many days do you need in Lisbon?
I’d recommend at least three days for a first visit, although four or five days gives you considerably more breathing room. Three days allows you to see many of the major highlights, while a longer stay gives you time for neighbourhoods, museums, food, slower exploration and potentially a day trip.
❓What should I avoid doing in Lisbon?
Avoid overpacking your itinerary, wearing unsuitable shoes, relying entirely on taxis, ignoring public transport rules, eating only in the busiest tourist areas and treating Lisbon as a flat city. Most importantly, don’t feel that you need to see every attraction in one visit.
❓Is Lisbon suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes. Lisbon is generally an approachable city for first-time visitors, particularly because English is widely spoken in tourist areas and there are many transport and accommodation options. The main things to prepare for are the hills, cobbled streets, busy tourist areas and slightly different local customs.
❓What is the best way to avoid tourist traps in Lisbon?
The best approach is to research prices, look beyond the busiest tourist streets and avoid choosing a restaurant or experience solely because it is highly visible. Ask locals for recommendations, read recent reviews and don’t assume that the restaurant with the biggest sign or longest queue is automatically the best.
❓Should I use public transport in Lisbon?
Yes. Lisbon’s public transport network can be extremely useful, particularly when you’re dealing with the city’s hills. The Metro, trams, buses and other services can help you save both time and energy. Just make sure you understand the ticketing and validation rules for the service you’re using.
Final Thoughts: How to Have a Better Lisbon Trip
Most Lisbon tourist mistakes are remarkably easy to avoid.
Wear comfortable shoes.
Respect the hills.
Don’t automatically ride Tram 28 at the busiest time of day.
Don’t assume Baixa is the whole city.
Give Belém the time it deserves.
Check attraction opening hours.
Understand your public transport ticket.
Be careful with valuables in crowded areas.
Don’t rush every meal.
Don’t try to squeeze Lisbon, Sintra and Cascais into one exhausting day.
And, above all, don’t treat Lisbon like a checklist.
The city is at its best when you allow yourself to slow down.
Yes, see the famous monuments. Ride a historic tram. Visit the viewpoints. Eat the pastel de nata. Walk along the river. Explore Alfama. See Belém.
But leave yourself enough time to do something that wasn’t on your itinerary.
That might be sitting at a neighbourhood café watching Lisbon go by. It might be discovering a tiny square in Graça. It might be finding a restaurant that wasn’t mentioned in your guidebook. Or it might simply be taking a wrong turn and deciding that, for once, you don’t need to immediately check Google Maps.
After years of living in Lisbon, that’s one of the things I appreciate most about the city.
Lisbon doesn’t need to be conquered. It needs to be experienced.
And if you avoid the mistakes above, you’ll have a much better chance of experiencing the Lisbon that visitors often fall in love with — not just the Lisbon they came to photograph.
👉 Planning your Lisbon accommodation? Compare hotels, apartments and guesthouses on Booking.com before choosing your base. Find Lisbon accommodation on Booking.com
👉 Want to make the most of your sightseeing time? Browse Lisbon tours and experiences on Viator, from walking tours to day trips beyond the city. Explore Lisbon on Viator
👉 Prefer guided experiences with flexible booking options? Take a look at the Lisbon activities available through GetYourGuide. Browse Lisbon activities on GetYourGuide
Quick Checklist Before You Visit Lisbon
- Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for Lisbon’s hills and calçada pavements.
- A realistic itinerary: Leave room between attractions.
- Public transport knowledge: Understand your ticket and validation requirements.
- Early starts: Particularly useful for popular attractions and Tram 28.
- Neighbourhood exploration: Don’t spend the entire trip in Baixa.
- Restaurant awareness: Check prices and understand couvert charges.
- Advance bookings: Reserve major attractions and popular experiences where appropriate.
- Day-trip planning: Give Sintra and Cascais enough time rather than rushing both.
- A little flexibility: Some of your best memories may come from unplanned discoveries.
- Respect for residents: Remember that Lisbon is a living city, not simply a tourist attraction.
Lisbon has its quirks.
That’s part of its charm.
Once you understand them, you’ll find the city much easier to navigate — and considerably more enjoyable to explore.
👉 Want to know more tips and tricks in Lisbon? Read my full guide.
About the author
I’m Duncan, a Lisbon-based guide and writer who’s lived here for 11 years and taken hundreds of visitors around the city. I created Lisbon Listicles to share everything you need to know about Lisbon in clear, practical lists — from iconic sights to hidden gems — so you can plan your trip easily and make the most of your time here.
All recommendations are based on personal experience and the questions I hear most often from visitors.
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