Is Lisbon Walkable? Tips and Places to Visit When Walking in Lisbon 2023
Is Lisbon walkable? Let’s find out if the capital of Portugal can be explored on foot.
Lisbon’s stunning landscapes, unique and colorful architecture, rich history, diverse culture, and delicious cuisine make it one of the most beautiful destinations in Portugal.
Furthermore, Lisbon is famous for being the sunniest city in Europe, so it is perfect for exploring while strolling around the city and enjoying the sunshine.
Keep reading for all the details on whether Lisbon is a walkable city and the best walking tours to enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Is Lisbon Walkable?
Lisbon is built on seven hills, meaning it is a very hilly city. In fact, several areas with narrow and steep streets seem impossible to walk.
That, however, doesn’t mean you are unable to walk around and explore. For instance, the city center and other distinctive areas are relatively flat and easily walkable.
The city has a well-connected transportation system. If you are unable to walk uphill, you can hop on one of the historic trams or take the metro to travel like a local.
Nevertheless, the city is quite compact, so most major attractions are within a few minutes walk.
Also, tourist facilities are accessible easily on foot, allowing you to fully enjoy the city just by strolling around.
Furthermore, several uphill streets have stunning views, so, with proper walking shoes, they are easily walkable and provide some of the best experiences in Lisbon.
Is Lisbon safe?
Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world. In fact, on the Global Peace Index, it ranks 3rd! So, be assured that in Lisbon you will have an easygoing holiday.
Of course, nowadays, Lisbon has become a popular tourist destination. And usually, with tourism, the crime scene increases.
So, even though violent crimes are rare, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can happen, especially in major tourist areas.
So, let’s see which neighborhoods are safest and which you should avoid.
🏘️ Safe Neighborhoods in Lisbon
Generally, the safest areas in Lisbon are the central neighborhoods of Baixa and Avenida da Liberdade.
Baixa is one of the most historic areas of Lisbon, as well as a lively neighborhood with bars and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for tourists to enjoy a perfect Lisbon itinerary.
Furthermore, due to over-tourism, Baixa has regular police patrols to keep the area safe.
Avenida da Liberdade is a rather smart and sophisticated area with a more modern style. Specifically, this area is known for its many shopping malls, high-end hotels, and upscale restaurants.
Generally, Avenida da Liberdade is a more affluent area, hence safer for visitors and a recommended place for you to stay in Lisbon.
🚫 Areas to Avoid in Lisbon
Although Baixa is one of the safest areas in Lisbon, it is necessary to be careful of pickpockets around sights and on public transportation.
Similarly, it is advised to be wary of any strange activities on trams 28E and 15E to Belém.
Furthermore, Cais do Sodré and Bairro Alto are Lisbon’s two neighborhoods that have the wildest and craziest nightlife.
Therefore, it is common for criminals to target tourists at night since they might be more vulnerable.
Lastly, Martim Moniz and Intendente, north of Mouraria, are often described as sketchy and dodgy due to local criminal activity such as drug dealers and trafficking.
🌃 Is Lisbon safe to walk at night?
Generally, Lisbon is safe even after the sun sets. For instance, it is safe to walk around the city to reach your accommodation after a night out.
However, you still need to be aware of strangers and peculiar activities because many pickpockets operate in popular tourist areas.
It is better to avoid narrow alleyways and deserted streets. Also, it is advised to be with a group rather than be alone and avoid excessive drinking.
Getting Around Lisbon
As already seen above, Lisbon is a very hilly city. Even though it is a compact and walkable city, for some, the steep inclines and endless stairs might be challenging.
There are several public elevators or funiculars for people with mobility issues to help you overcome the sudden elevation changes when going from one place to another.
If you plan to explore the city on foot, it is essential to have walking shoes with slight traction on the soles because many sidewalks are slippery.
Below you can find an easy and quick walking tour you can take on your own.
18 Places to Visit During Your Lisbon Walking Tour
1. Marquês de Pombal Square and Monument
Described as the heart of modern Lisbon, the Praça do Marquês de Pombal is a monument to Marquis of Pombal, the governor of Lisbon between 1750 and 1777.
The statue is in the center of the square above the Metro station.
2. Eduardo VII Park
Located north of Praça do Marquês de Pombal, Eduardo VII Park is a public park named after the United Kingdom’s King Edward VII, who visited Portugal in 1902.
The park has beautiful views of Lisbon’s city center and the River Tagus from uphill.
Throughout the year, the park hosts several venues, so be sure to check out their dates before visiting.
3. Tivoli Theatre
Less than ten minutes away from Marquês de Pombal and Eduardo VII Park, you will find a gorgeous building housing the classic 1920s Tivoli Teatro.
It has a broad program of ballet, film, jazz, opera, plays, and orchestral music.
4. Monument Heroes of the Great War (Monumento aos Heróis da Grande Guerra)
While walking further on the Avenida da Liberdade, you will find the beautiful Monumento aos Heróis da Grande Guerra.
This is a war memorial honoring the fallen soldiers in World War I.
5. Hard Rock Cafe Lisbon
On the same road, Avenida Da Liberdade, you will find Hard Rock Cafe, the famous rock ‘n’ roll-themed chain serving burgers and other American classics.
6. Foz Palace (Palácio Foz)
Moving on the same way, you will find a grand, 18th-century palace with unique and diverse architectural styles and luxurious rooms that are now used for events.
7. Eden Theatre
Right next to Foz Palace, you will see the Cine-Teatro Eden. It is an Art Deco building that first opened in 1931.
It was a unique project designed by Cassiano Branco but, unfortunately, didn’t last long as a theater. Today it is used as a boutique hotel.
8. Rossio railway station (Estação do Rossio)
Rossio station may be just a train station, but it is a beautifully ornate station, making it worth visiting while on your walking tour.
9. Rossio Square
Rossio Square has been one of Lisbon’s main squares since the Middle ages.
Today, it features a fountain monument of King Pedro IV, a beautiful limestone floor, and several shops, restaurants, and cafes.
10. D. Maria II National Theatre (Teatro Nacional D. Maria II)
Right next to Rossio Square, you will find one of the most prestigious Portuguese theaters, presenting arts and dance productions.
The theater is a restored 19th-century palace.
11. Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa)
Inspired by Eiffel Tower’s architectural techniques, Santa Justa Lift is a 1902 elevator that can take you to the medieval Convento do Carmo Largo do Carmo.
The upper platform offers stunning views of the city and river.
12. Carmo Convent (Convento do Carmo)
Just a level above Santa Justa Lift, you will find the beautiful ruins of the Gothic church Carmo Convent and an archaeological museum.
Destroyed by an earthquake in 1755, the church now has an evocative roofless nave.
13. Rua Augusta Arch (Arco da Rua Augusta)
Rua Augusta Arch is a triumphal arch built to honor the city’s reconstruction after the 1755 earthquake. It also features a viewing platform on the top.
14. Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square)
Also known as Terreiro do Paço, the Praça do Comércio is a large, harbor-facing square across the Augusta Arch and surrounded by magnificent buildings.
15. Praça do Município (City Square)
Praça do Município is a small mosaic-paved square in front of the elegant City Hall building.
16. Cais das Colunas (Columns Wharf)
Cais das Colunas is a famous viewpoint characterized by the two white columns from the late 18th century located on the water’s edge.
It offers stunning and vast vistas over the Tagus river, the Christ the King monument, and the 25th April bridge.
17. Museu de Lisboa (Museum of Lisbon)
Located within the building surrounding Commerce square, this museum is dedicated to the city’s history through dramatic sets and multimedia exhibits.
18. Ribeira das Naus
Ribeira das Naus is a waterfront promenade that is perfect for a stroll in the sun and enjoying fantastic water views and beautiful sunsets.
Self-Guided Lisbon Walking Routes
Check out some of the best self-guided walking tours to enjoy Lisbon at your pace.
1. Lisbon Introduction Walking Tour
As its name indicates, the self-guided Lisbon Introduction Walking Tour is ideal for learning a little bit more about Lisbon.
It helps you explore Lisbon’s three most central districts, which are also the most significant historical areas. These are the Chiado, Baixa, and Bairro Alto.
As you walk through these districts, you can discover Lisbon’s cultural roots, social significance in the world, and major historical events.
2. Alfama Walking Tour
Alfama is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, so it is the best area to experience Lisbon’s rich and diverse history. T
Today, it is described as a picturesque, compact maze of narrow streets, small squares, and colorful buildings.
Therefore, the self-guided Alfama Walking Tour is an excellent choice to experience Lisbon’s history and unique architectural style.
3. Sao Jorge Castle to Lisbon Cathedral Walking Tour
The self-guided walking tour from Sao Jorge castle to Lisbon Cathedral is a classic walk nobody should miss.
It provides breathtaking views of the Alfama district and the Tagus River as well as two must-visit viewpoints that allow you to immerse in Lisbon’s most historical district.
4. Belem Walking Tour
The district of Belem is one of the most popular areas in Lisbon.
Situated by the Tagus River, it is the original location of Lisbon’s port, so it is the starting point of many great journeys of discovery by Portuguese explorers.
Today, it is also known for its many national monuments and museums, so the Belem Walking Tour is perfect for exploring Portugal’s glorious days.
5. Bairro Alto and Chiado Walking Tour
The Bairro Alto and Chiado Walking Tour allow tourists to experience a more artistic perspective of Lisbon.
Both neighborhoods are known for being lively with a bohemian attitude. All over the streets, you will find exquisite locally-made ceramics, clothes, and wooden sculptures.
Morovero, Chiado features various museums, monuments, theaters, statues, beautiful squares, and fountains.
6. Baixa Shopping Walk
Baixa Shopping Walk is a self-guided tour of Lisbon’s downtown district.
It is a great spot to immerse yourself in the city’s modern lifestyle. You can sroll around shopping centers, eclectic restaurants, and elegant bars.
Furthermore, during this tour, you can admire stunning Neo-classical and restored Art-Deco buildings.
7. Principe Real Walking Tour
The Principe Real Walking Tour takes you on a stroll around the beautiful neighborhood of Principe Real, which boasts lush gardens combined with beautiful architecture.
It is the perfect tour to get away from the bustling city center.
You will get to experience Lisbon’s tranquility through the Botanical Garden, 19th-century mansions, antique shops, concept stores, markets, art galleries, and more.
Guided Walking Tours in Lisbon
If you prefer thorough walking tours to discover more about Lisbon, check out these guided walking tours.
1. Best of Lisbon Guided Walking Tour
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The Best of Lisbon Walking Tour includes a leisurely stroll in Lisbon’s cobblestone streets, historical and cultural landmarks, and the best cafes and boutiques.
Specifically, it is a walking tour through Lisbon’s oldest areas.
These include Moorish Alfama, the Chiado district, and the monumental Baixa neighborhood to experience Lisbon’s rich culture through an expert guide’s narration.
2. Lisbon Small-Group Walking Tour
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Join the Lisbon Small Group Walking Tour to relish in a thorough guided walk and experience as much as possible of the Portuguese capital on foot.
An expert guide will give you the opportunity to learn more about the city’s history by strolling charming neighborhoods like Jardim das Amoreiras, Principe Real, Bairro Alto, and Baixa.
3. Lisbon Essential Walking Tour
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Lisbon Essential Walking Tour is a guided tour with a local expert guide that takes you to Lisbon’s most essential historical and cultural sights in the city’s unique and popular neighborhoods of Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Alfama.
The tour includes Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara to enjoy magnificent city views and ride on the Eleléctrico tram, a must-do experience in Lisbon.
4. Lisbon Private Walking Tour
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A private tour implies a personalized experience and Lisbon Private Walking Tour is made to accommodate your desires and needs.
It usually includes a stroll through the city center. The top sights visited are the ornate Santa Justa lift in the Alfama district and the Graça viewpoint in the bohemian neighborhood of Bairro Alto.
5. Lisbon Alfama and Downtown Walking Tour
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Alfama is the city’s oldest neighborhood, and downtown Lisbon is the heart of this marvelous city.
The Lisbon Alfama and Downtown Walking Tour is an ideal guided tour for those wishing to discover Lisbon’s historical and cultural heritage.
As a bonus, expect to find the best place to taste the famous Portuguese custard tarts.
6. Lisbon Street Art Walking Tour
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An alternative option for a guided tour that offers a different perspective on the city is the Lisbon Street Art Walking Tour.
It is a 3-hour walking tour and explores the vibrant street art scene in the neighborhoods of Bairro Alto, Mouraria, and Graça.
Furthermore, you will learn the stories behind each mural and graffiti.
7. Bairro Alto: Lisbon’s Bohemian Quarter Food & Wine Tour
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Sometimes the best way to experience a city’s culture is through food.
This Food and Wine Tour in the bohemian neighborhood of Bairro Alto will take you on a culinary evening.
An expert guide will take you around local favorite spots to taste delicious small plates, known as petiscos, and popular Portuguese drinks.
Moreover, you can sample Portuguese wines, which are some of the best in the world.
Is Lisbon Walkable? Frequently Asked Questions
📈 Is Lisbon steep?
Surrounded by seven hills, Lisbon is a very hilly city.
Still, Lisbon is very walkable, but be aware that some parts of the city have several steep inclines and endless stairs.
🔝 What is the steepest street in Lisbon?
The steepest slope in Lisbon is the street linking Rua de São Paulo to Largo do Calhariz through the Ascensor da Bica, an 1892 funicular railway.
It is actually considered a national monument.
🏘️ What neighborhoods should I stay in Lisbon?
If you prefer to stay within the city center, where everything is easily accessible on foot, the best neighborhoods to stay in are Baixa and Chiado.
These are Lisbon’s “downtown,” where all the action happens.
🚶 Is Lisbon easy to walk around?
Even though Lisbon is known for its hills, it is a compact city with a relatively flat city center.
Therefore, it is easy to walk around Lisbon to reach most major tourist attractions and other tourist amenities.
🚗 Can you get around Lisbon without a car?
Frankly, a car is not needed to get around Lisbon.
Firstly, because Lisbon’s center is relatively small, it is easier to travel on foot rather than by car.
Furthermore, Lisbon has a very efficient and inexpensive transportation network system.
It would only make sense to rent a car in Portugal if you’re planning to explore other places in the country during your trip.
🗺️ How do tourists get around Lisbon?
Apart from walking in Lisbon, tourists can explore by taking public transport, such as the metro, trams, buses, funiculars, ferries, taxis, or Uber.
🚦 What is the best way to get around Lisbon?
The best way to get around Lisbon is by combining public transport and walking.
While walking around Lisbon, you can see the sights and beautiful views from the hills.
However, you can also consider using buses, trams, the metro, and funiculars to catch your breath.
Is Lisbon Walkable?
Lisbon may be famous for its seven hills, but that does not mean you can’t enjoy the city on foot.
In fact, Lisbon’s downtown is quite flat, and most tourist attractions and other amenities are easily accessible within a few minutes walk.
Still, if you prefer to enjoy Lisbon at a more relaxing pace and avoid extremely inclined steep streets, there are many public transport options.
Nevertheless, Lisbon is a very walkable city that everyone can enjoy fully without any trouble.
