Disclosure: Some links in this article are affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend places and experiences I genuinely think are worth it.
One of the things i love about Lisbon is that there is really so much to see and do. From Museums to monuments, there really is something for everyone. You could spend days here and only see a fraction. That’s also why people still keep coming back. Even after 11 years living in Lisbon, there are still places on my list that I have to visit.
Welcome to Lisbon – The Ultimate European Destination
Lisbon is a city full of sunshine, charm, and history. From cobblestone streets and colorful tiled facades to sweeping views over the Tagus River, the Portuguese capital is full of surprises at every corner. Whether you’re wandering through ancient neighborhoods, tasting Portuguese cuisine, or soaking up the lively nightlife, there’s always something to enjoy.
With so many incredible sights, it can be overwhelming to decide where to begin. That’s why we’ve created this Ultimate Guide to the Top 20 Things to See in Lisbon (2026). From world-famous landmarks to hidden gems and scenic viewpoints, this list will help you make the most of your trip to one of Europe’s most captivating cities.
The Top 20 Things To See In Lisbon
1. Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium)
The Lisbon Oceanarium is one of the most popular attractions in Portugal and the second-largest aquarium in Europe. Named the world’s best multiple times, it houses hundreds of marine species from sharks and stingrays to playful otters. Families and ocean enthusiasts alike will love exploring the enormous central tank and themed habitats.
If you have kids and don’t kniow what to do with them while you are here, i recommend the Oceanarium. Its a win for the whole family.
👉 Save time by booking a skip-the-line ticket on GetYourGuide and head straight to the exhibits.
2. Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square)
Located at the edge of the river, Commerce Square is one of the most iconic spots in Lisbon. This grand plaza was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake and today it’s framed by yellow arcaded buildings and the impressive Arco da Rua Augusta. It’s a fantastic place for photos, a stroll, or simply enjoying a coffee while watching the world go by.
3. Senhora do Monte Viewpoint
If you’re looking for breathtaking panoramas, the Senhora do Monte viewpoint is the highest natural vantage point in Lisbon. From here, you’ll see the city’s red rooftops, the São Jorge Castle, and even the 25 de Abril Bridge. It’s especially magical at sunset when the city glows golden.
4. Portas do Sol & Santa Luzia Viewpoints
These two side-by-side viewpoints in Alfama are a must for photographers. From Portas do Sol, you’ll see the tiled rooftops cascading down to the river. Meanwhile, Santa Luzia is framed with bougainvillea and azulejo tile panels, making it one of the prettiest terraces in Lisbon.
👉 Again, a tuktuk tour is your best option for the views. These are stops made in their tours.
5. Sao Pedro de Alcantara Viewpoint
This elegant garden terrace in Bairro Alto provides postcard-worthy views over the city, including the São Jorge Castleand Graça neighborhood. It’s also close to plenty of bars and cafés, so you can grab a drink and enjoy the scenery.
6. Eduardo VII Park
A green escape in the city center, Eduardo VII Park stretches from the Marquês de Pombal roundabout down to the Tagus. The symmetrical hedges lead your eyes straight to the water, creating one of the best views in Lisbon. In summer, the park often hosts festivals and events.
7. Avenida da Liberdade (Liberty Avenue)
Lisbon’s answer to the Champs-Élysées, Avenida da Liberdade is a grand boulevard lined with luxury boutiques, historic theaters, fountains, and shady plane trees. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, strolling here feels like stepping into another era.
8. Rossio Train Station
At first glance, you’d think Rossio Station is a palace, not a railway hub. Its neo-Manueline facade makes it one of the prettiest train stations in Europe. It’s also where you catch the train to Sintra, one of Portugal’s most magical towns.
9. Santa Justa Elevator
The Santa Justa Elevator is both practical and beautiful. This iron lift, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, connects the Baixa district with the higher Carmo Square. The viewing platform at the top offers fantastic 360-degree city views.
10. Carmo Convent
Next door is the Carmo Convent, whose roofless Gothic arches remain from the 1755 earthquake. Today, the ruins house an archaeological museum and offer one of Lisbon’s most atmospheric historic sites.
11. Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho)
Pink Street is Lisbon’s nightlife hotspot. Once a red-light district, it has reinvented itself as a trendy strip filled with cocktail bars and clubs. During the day, it’s a quirky photo stop; at night, it comes alive.
12. Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira)
Hungry? Head to Time Out Market Lisbon, where dozens of food stalls offer the best of Portuguese and international cuisine. It’s bustling and busy, but you’ll find everything from classic pastéis de nata to modern fusion dishes.
Now Time Out can get pretty busy but I still recommend visiting it even if it is just pop in then pop out. Just so you can see what it’s all about.
13. Jeronimos Monastry
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jerónimos Monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Built in the 16th century, it’s the resting place of Vasco da Gama and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Exploration.
👉 Save time with a combined ticket for Jerónimos Monastery & Belém Tower on GetYourGuide.
14. Belém Tower (Torre de Belém)
Just down the river, the Belém Tower is another icon of Lisbon. Built in 1515 as a fortress, it’s now a symbol of the city and a favorite for history lovers.
15. The Monument to the Discoveries
Standing tall along the river, the Monument to the Discoveries honors Portugal’s great explorers. Climb to the top for one of the best views in Belém.
16. Rua Augusta (Augusta Street)
The lively Rua Augusta is Lisbon’s busiest pedestrian street. As you walk past shops and cafés, you’ll end at the triumphal arch overlooking Commerce Square. The street is often filled with performers and energy.
17. Lisbon’s Funiculars & Elevators
Lisbon is famous for its funiculars—the Bica, Glória, and Lavra—which climb impossibly steep hills. In 2024, the Graça Elevator was also inaugurated, adding to the experience. Riding them is both fun and practical.
18. The LX Factory
For something more modern, head to LX Factory, a creative district filled with quirky shops, art murals, and hip restaurants under the 25 de Abril Bridge. It’s a favorite spot for younger crowds and those who love urban culture.
19. São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge)
Dominating Lisbon’s skyline, São Jorge Castle is a must-visit. Wander its ramparts, explore its gardens, and enjoy one of the most stunning views of the city.
If you look up whil walking around Lisbon, you see the castle on the hill. I love the history and the views and I know you will too.
👉 To bring history alive, join a guided walking tour of Alfama & São Jorge Castle on Viator.
20. Palácio de São Bento (Portuguese Parliament)
Often skipped by tourists, the Palácio de São Bento is an elegant neoclassical building housing the Portuguese Parliament. If you’re interested in history and politics, it’s worth a visit.
This is a place i really like bringing people as they just wouldn’t see it otherwise. But it is such a beautiful parliamnet building and worth coming to see.
Bonus Experiences in Lisbon
🎶 Bonus 1: Fado in Alfama
No trip to Lisbon is complete without experiencing Fado, Portugal’s soulful traditional music. Many restaurants in Alfama host intimate performances over dinner.
👉 Book a Fado show with dinner on Viator for an unforgettable evening.
🚢 Bonus 2: Sunset Cruise on the Tagus
See Lisbon from a new perspective with a sunset river cruise. As the city glows in golden light, you’ll sail past Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the 25 de Abril Bridge. It’s a magical way to end your day.
👉 Sunset cruises on the Tagus are one of the most popular experiences in Lisbon.
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Trip to Lisbon!
Lisbon blends history, culture, and modern charm like few other cities in Europe. Whether you’re riding its vintage trams, exploring UNESCO landmarks, or simply relaxing with a glass of vinho verde, you’ll find countless reasons to fall in love with the Portuguese capital.
👉 Looking for where to stay? Check out the best Lisbon hotels on Agoda here for top deals.
Have you been to Lisbon yet? Or do you have your own favorite places? Share your tips in the comments—we’d love to hear your must-sees!
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.
Leave a Reply