What to do in Lisbon

Activities, attractions and tours

Lisbon
Lisbon
Commerce Square featuring a city
Lisbon Cathedral which includes a city, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral
Commerce Square featuring night scenes, heritage architecture and a square or plaza

Places to Visit in Lisbon

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Lisbon, Lisbon District while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Lisbon attractions from NZ$3, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Lisbon tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 1259 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Lisbon. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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Top places to visit

1. Rossio Square

Officially named Praça Dom Pedro IV, this centrally located square is much more commonly known simply as Rossio. Come here at any time of the day to find the square abuzz, as people gather to socialize at cafés around the square’s edge.
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Rossio Square featuring a fountain and a square or plaza

2. Belém Tower

Belém Tower is an impressive structure on the shore of the Tagus River in Lisbon. The ornate fortification was built here over 500 years ago to fight off any hostile craft that came up the river. Gaze straight across the river from the top of the Tower Terrace to see St. Sebastian’s Fort, another fortification on the opposite shore. With the two towers in place, enemy warships could not achieve success in attacking the city.
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Belem Tower which includes heritage architecture, general coastal views and a bridge

3. Santa Justa Elevator

The Santa Justa Elevator connects the hilltop neighborhood Bairro Alto with downtown Baixa. The gothic, iron structure rises up from the neoclassical architecture of downtown. The elevator has been in operation since 1905 and was originally operated by a steam engine. Today it’s powered by an electric engine and is a great way to enjoy views over the city. Visit the elevator’s rooftop café.
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Lisbon_SantaJustaElevator_6081577-1

4. Lisbon Oceanarium

Delight in the diversity and colours of majestic birds and exotic sea-dwellers at the Lisbon Oceanarium. This huge indoor aquarium with 8,000 inhabitants is one of Europe’s largest. It offers family-friendly fun while you learn about these intriguing ocean inhabitants.
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Lisbon Oceanarium which includes marine life and interior views

5. Castle of São Jorge

Engage with the city’s history at the Castle of São Jorge. This massive medieval structure has looked over the city from a hill by the Alfama district for centuries. Take a guided tour of the grounds to imagine the lives of its ancient inhabitants, admire its intricate stonework and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its well-positioned lookouts.
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Castle of Sao Jorge showing a city, views and a castle

6. Commerce Square

Meet your friends, bring the family or simply bask in the busy sunlit atmosphere of Commerce Square. Known locally as the Praça do Comércio, this riverfront plaza was used historically as a meeting place for royals, although this stopped after the Great Earthquake of 1755.
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Commerce Square which includes a city, night scenes and outdoor art

Recommended things to do in Lisbon

Number of things to do
1259
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Exciting Free Walking Tour: Explore Iconic Landmarks & Stunning Viewpoints: NZ$3
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Lisbon

Discover the most popular places to visit in Lisbon

Rossio Square showing a fountain, street scenes and heritage elements

Rossio Square

See the people-packed central square whose swirling wave-patterned cobbles are thought to have inspired copycat pavements across the rest of Portugal and beyond.

Rossio Square
Avenida da Liberdade

Avenida da Liberdade

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Avenida da Liberdade, a popular shopping spot in Santo Antonio. Discover the top-notch restaurants in this romantic area or seek out the local tours.

Avenida da Liberdade
Campo Grande

Campo Grande

You can learn about the history of Alvalade when you stop by Campo Grande. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Campo Grande
Marquis of Pombal Square

Marquis of Pombal Square

Learn about the local history of Lisbon with a stop at Marquis of Pombal Square. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the acclaimed art galleries in this culturally rich area.

Marquis of Pombal Square
Belem Tower featuring general coastal views, a sunset and heritage architecture

Belém Tower

Lisbon constructed a fortification along a waterway to defend its riches. Now access the structure from the shore for lovely views.

Belém Tower
Santa Justa Elevator which includes outdoor eating, night scenes and nightlife

Santa Justa Elevator

Ride the elevator designed in the 19th century to connect the districts of hilltop Bairro Alto and downtown Baixa. Enjoy views from the café atop the gothic lift.

Santa Justa Elevator
Carcavelos Beach

Carcavelos Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Carcavelos Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Carcavelos. Amble around the area's seaside or seek out its surfing spots.

Carcavelos Beach
Lisbon Oceanarium

Lisbon Oceanarium

Spot deep-sea dwellers and ocean birds from around the world in this enormous and diverse aquarium, found along Lisbon’s picturesque seafront.

Lisbon Oceanarium
Castle of Sao Jorge showing a city, views and a castle

Castle of São Jorge

See ancient stonework and enjoy the same views of the city that allowed Lisbon’s medieval royals to spot incoming invaders from miles around.

Castle of São Jorge

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Lisbon

Miradouro de Santa Luzia showing a coastal town and a lake or waterhole

Lisbon District

Olivais

Olivais

Benfica

Benfica

Lisboa Region

Loures

Padrão dos Descobrimentos featuring a bridge, heritage elements and a river or creek

Belém

Arroios

Arroios

Photo by Travelholic Path

Beato

Marvila

Marvila

Frequently asked questions

Is Lisbon worth visiting?
Lisbon offers an interesting mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, nature or traditional food, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Lisbon?
When you've checked off major attractions like Castle of São Jorge, spend some time exploring the retail and food options in Lisbon.
What is the top tourist attraction in Lisbon?
Castle of São Jorge is ranked the top tourist attraction near Lisbon, so don't leave without experiencing it.
Is three days enough to stay in Lisbon?
You'll have plenty of time to explore Castle of São Jorge, Lisbon Cathedral and other top attractions in the area when you book a three-day escape to Lisbon.
Is Lisbon a walkable neighbourhood?
Getting around Lisbon on foot is a breeze, with top sights like Castle of São Jorge and Lisbon Cathedral both within walking distance. Well-known neighbourhoods like Santa Maria Maior and Baixa are also located only 0.48 kilometres and 0.16 kilometres from the centre of Lisbon, so you can see and do more — no car required.
What are some activities to do in Lisbon with kids?
If you're searching for tours and attractions for all of your group, here are some awesome ideas for what to do in Lisbon with kids.

What to do in Lisbon for adults?
Campo Pequeno Bullring is one of the best things to do in Lisbon. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Lisbon?
Near Lisbon, Lisbon Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone who wants to enjoy this area without spending a cent. Also, wander through parks and other neighbourhoods nearby, and don't hesitate to ask a local tour guide for insider tips. It's a simple way to find the best free things to do in Lisbon.

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