27 things To know before Visiting Lisbon: Mistakes to avoid and Travel Tips

If you are planning on visiting the vibrant Portuguese capital, this list of things to know before visiting Lisbon is a must-read.

I wish I had known about these tips about traveling to Lisbon before my trip. But in my case, I was lucky because one of our friends lives in Portugal, and she was kind enough to offer her guidance. So, I have learned a lot.

In this article, I will share all my wisdom with you. So, get comfortable and read on 🙂

27 things to know before Visiting Lisbon

1. You would need at least 5 to 7 days to visit Lisbon and the Surrounding, but two can be enough

The first thing that you should know before traveling to Lisbon is how many days you need. There is no absolute answer.

Ideally, you will need 5 to 7 days to be able to explore all the fabulous landmarks, eat delicious food, and enjoy the international vibes of the city. Especially if you want to visit museums and popular attractions such as the Jeronimos Monaster that require a long waiting line. (Get your Ticket here, but you will still have to cue up.)

Also, there are many interesting attractions at a short ride from Lisbon such as the pretty historical towns of Sintra and Cascais.

In fact, some tours combine both visits in one day. I believe it’s a bit of a stretch as each of those towns requires a full-day visit. However, it is doable, and here is the link to the guided tour.

If you have time, though, I would encourage you to go on your own by train or bus and enjoy a full day in each town. You will appreciate it more.

2. Lisbon is not Cheap anymore

Not only Lisbon but the entire country used to be a cheap travel destination. In fact, it was an attractive destination both for digital nomads and retired in search of a better quality of life. And that was what Portugal was offering until recent years.

With the increase in immigration (according to this article from the  New York Times, immigration from the US has increased by 239% since 2017), prices have also risen a lot, and if it’s still cheap compared to the US prices, it has become dramatically expensive for locals and southern European salaries.

3. The Pastel de Bacalhau shop is for tourists

You will find scattered around the city a pretty shop like this one in the picture showcasing delicious cheesy pastel de bacalhau. I tried it, and it’s delicious, but it’s not where locals eat it. It’s way more expensive and less authentic.

Try and look for small restaurants off the main streets or in markets where you can find the real authentic ones at the right price.

4. Tinned Sardine Shop is also for tourist

The colorful tinned Sardines are a popular Portuguese souvenir because they represent the strong bond of the Portuguese culture with the sea and the fishing industry. However, what you will find in the touristy places is not what locals eat.

These are instead an expensive remake of the local packaging. You will find colorful, elegant sardines shops scattered around the city. They are beautiful to look at, but if you want to get what locals get you should go to a supermarket. 🙂 Check out my pictures here below to see the difference.

5. Don’t purchase a single ticket for Santa Justa; do this instead

The Santa Justa Elevator is one of the most popular tourist attractions because of the amazing views you can see from the top. However, you should know that the return ride costs €5.30. However, if you buy the metro day card (8.50 EURO) or the Lisbon Card, this is included.

I don’t enjoy waiting in line so I skipped it, although I had the day metro card. It’s up to you.

6. Sao Jorge Castle is beautiful, but you have other options

The Sao Jorge Castle is a spectacular historical landmark with stunning views over the ocean and Lisbon. However, if you are interested in the views you can save a few bucks and check out some of the spectacular lookout points just a few steps above the castles.

If you really want to visit the castle I suggest you should go early morning as soon as it opens. A good idea is also to purchase a ticket with a guided tour which is a little more expensive but it allows you to skip the line.

7. Renting a car is not ideal in Lisbon

Although I usually recommend renting a car in Portugal, in Lisbon is not a good idea. Not only for the narrow streets and high traffic but also for finding a car park. The best way to move around in Lisbon is by public transportation or the car-sharing app Bolt (cheaper than Uber and more available).

Just keep in mind that not all the streets in the city center are accessible by car so if you get a Bolt (cheaper) or Uber you will need to pay attention to the guidelines in the app on where you will be picked up.

8. Avoid using tram 28. here is why.

Tram 28 is renowned for its scenic ride. The iconic tram leaves Plaza Martim Moniz and runs through the most picturesque districts such as the Alfama neighborhood, Baixo, and Barrio Alto. Watching the views from the tram is a way to save some energy and enjoy the city vibes from the comfort of a seat.

However, you should know that these trams have limited seating and schedules and they are also used by locals to commute for work and grocery shopping, to live their lives, that is.

Taking this tram in peak hours will disrupt the lives of locals. Therefore, unless you have mobility challenges, I would suggest you just walk along this route and I assure you, you will have a blast.

I did this without knowing I was on the route of the 28 tram. I just kept bumping into it and took lots of pictures too.

Follow this is the itinerary if you want to enjoy the best views of Lisbon. I created it based on the lookout points I wanted to visit and I loved it. You will find some steep hills but it’s worth the workout. Start from the top and make your way down to the sea.

On Saturday and Tuesday, you can visit the Feira da Ladra, or Flea Market, a historical market located in Campo da Santa Clara near the Panteão Nacional and the church of São Vicente de Fora.

9. Lisbon is safe, but…

I felt completely safe anywhere I walked around Lisbon’s historical center. However, I was very cautious with my bag and personal belongings, especially on buses or in crowded areas like markets or shops.

Pick-pocketers are everywhere, especially where many tourists are wandering around. So be mindful of that.

10. To get from Lisbon airport to the city center, avoid regular taxi

To get from the Airport to the center of Lisbo,n you can easily use the convenient public transportation (red line). However, if you arrive late at night or you have a lot of bags (or both, like in my case) it’s best to use private transportation. I would avoid Taxi because it is heard that they tend to inflate prices for unaware tourists.

Uber or Bolt are the best options and Bolt is cheaper than Uber. However, you will have to walk a bit further from the arrivals terminal because drivers are not allowed too close to the taxi “territory”.

Another option is to book your private ride on Welcome Pick-up, which is what I have done and I was very happy with it. It was quite expensive (about 30 Euro) but the driver was waiting for me inside the arrival terminal and helped with my bags to get to his car. Everything went smoothly and he also waited for me to get in the building safely, before leaving. Definitely recommended.

11. Restaurants generally close between 2.30 and 6 (approx)

Keep in mind that although you will be able to snack all day in cafes or markets, the restaurants take a break during the day, which is usually between 2.30 and 6 pm. So keep that in mind if you want to sit at a restaurant for lunch.

12. Tips are not expected

Although they are greatly appreciated, Tips are not expected because restaurant workers have a proper salary. If you want to leave a tip, though, and you pay by credit card, you will need to let the waiter know because he needs to add it to the final amount. The credit card machines are not set up to add the tip as an additional amount. Or you can leave the tip in cash.

13. pasteis de Nata are not the same Everywhere

It is true that not everywhere they make a great Pastei de nata. However, if you don’t want to spend time in line at the famous Pasteis de Nata Shop in Belem, you can always find great Pasteis de Nata in many other places. I have tried them in the Fabrica de Nata in Praça dos Restauradores and it was delicious. Besides, they have a lot of sitting in the beautiful tea room inside and outdoors.

14. Time out Market is a tourist Attraction, but…

I visited Time Out Market twice, one with my friends just to browse around and the other time on my own to try one of the food stands for dinner. It’s always very crowded but it’s worth a visit.

Especially do not miss the stand of “A Vida Portuguesa,” a local company that showcases the finest local artifacts, from home accessories to decorative items and tinned sardines and more. If you are looking for a high-end, pricy souvenir, you will find it here.

Also, adjacent to the Time Out Market, you will find the local produce market. Mercado da Riberia, which is the local, more authentic marketplace, worth a visit.

15. Lisbon Pavement is not suitable for high heels

Make sure you look down when you walk around Lisbon’s historical center, not only to admire the spectacular tile work of the cobblestone roads, called “calçada portuguesa“. But also to make sure not to fall. Although very beautiful, it’s not suitable for heels.

Always wear comfortable walking shoes because it can be slippery, especially if you are going downhill. Also, the white stones are more slippery than the black ones. So pay attention.

16. Lisbon is Dirty

I found Lisbon a dirty city with a big issue of homeless people roaming around and sleeping in tents in very precarious conditions. It’s kind of sad, but I am not aware of how the government is dealing with it, so I cannot express an opinion on that.

It’s just sad to see a lot of homeless people living in such poor conditions and a lot of rubbish abandoned on the street. We, as tourists, can do our part and avoid leaving our waste behind us, and we can use the trash bins available on the side of the roads.

17. Porto Wine is not typical of Lisbon

Although some products may be considered from Portugal in general many products are region-specific. For instance, Porto wine originates from Porto and the Douro Valley so it’s not typical from Lisbon. In Lisbon, on the other hand, you’ll encounter Ginjinha, a Portuguese dark red liqueur crafted from sour cherries.

18. It’s advisable to make a dinner reservation or do this instead

It’s best to make dinner reservations, especially if you are planning to dine in a specific restaurant. However, if you don’t want to, you can show up at 7 or as soon as they open and you may be able to be squeezed in. Peak hours are usually around 8 pm.

19. Wonder around and enjoy the International vibes of the city

Lisbon has a lot to offer and it’s easy to walk around. Wear proper shoes and enjoy roaming around the cobblestone streets, walking up steep hills, and checking out the lookout points. Admire the sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, the colorful murals, and the iconic tiled facades of the old buildings.

20. Dress appropriately

You never know with the weather in Lisbon. Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Keep your personal belongings in a safe place.

21. Winters are Cold

It’s always a good time to visit Lisbon, a city with charm and personality any time of the year. But don’t think the climate is always favorable. Winters are cold and summer can be hot. September should be rainy but it can rain anytime.

Prepare to dress in layers and enjoy the city vibes no matter what climate you’ll find. I visited in April and I experienced an extremely hot day at 24°C ( 72°F). Check out the forecast before packing but don’t trust it completely.

22. Lisbon is a Extremely walkable City

Despite the steep hills, I consider Lisbon an extremely walkable city. You can get from one side to the other on foot while admiring historical landmarks and colorful tiled buildings, sit at a cafe to rest your legs, and continue your stroll. Walking is the best way to explore the Portuguese capital city.

23. Bolt is cheaper than Uber

If you need a ride, Bolt is considered cheaper and faster because there are many more cars available. However, I have used Uber and had no issues at all. So either of them is a good way to find a ride and know what you are going to pay in advance. With a taxi, you will never know if the price is correct, and they are way more expensive anyway.

24. There are amazing day trips from Lisbon Options

A very popular day trip from Lisbon is to Sintra or Cascais. You will find organized guided tours that take you to both towns in one day. However, this is not my favorite way of traveling.

I would instead go on my own and dedicate a full day to each town. It’s very easy to get from Lisbon to Sintra or Cascais.

25. Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery are unesco Heritage Sites

If there is one thing that’s worth the time in the line is the Monastery and the Belem Tower, the two Unesco Heritage sites in Lisbon that are worth the wait, if you have time of course. If you are there for only 2 days, like I did, it isn’t probably worth it as you can admire them from the outside and spend time walking around the city. But it’s a personal choice.

If you want to check them out, you can pre-purchase your ticket online to avoid the ticket office line, but you will still have to stay in the line to enter. To avoid long queues I suggest you visit early morning.

26. Don’t miss a visit to LX Factory

It looks a bit tourists but it’s not. This is a happy place also for locals to showcase their art and crafts. You will find, local jewelry and artifacts, art pieces, and local delicacies. It’s also a cool place where locals and expats hang out, worth a stroll and a culinary break.

27. Stay in a strategic location

And last but not least, choose wisely where to stay.

Imagine Lisbon’s landscape as a tiered arrangement: Baixa rests at sea level, Chiado sits one level above, and Bairro Alto rises another level beyond Chiado. And then there is Intendente, less touristy but close enough to the popular areas. Together, these four regions compose the most vibrant areas to lodge in Lisbon.

Baixa: Though not officially designated as such, Baixa is the heart of Lisbon. It pulsates with commercial activity, bustling with the daily lives of Lisbon’s inhabitants. Staying near Augusta Street ensures convenient access to the city center. Award-winning hostels like Yes! Lisbon Hostel and Lisbon Lounge Hostel cater well to solo travelers. Boho Guest House offer private rooms with shared bathrooms which is very common to find in Lisbon.

Chiado: In Chiado, tradition meets bohemian charm against a backdrop of modernity and elegance. This relatively compact area seamlessly merges with Baixa and Bairro Alto. Figueira by The Boutique Hotel And Spa is a great Mid-range option.

Bairro Alto: Intimately linked with Chiado, Bairro Alto extends uphill beyond Luís de Camões square, transforming into a vibrant nocturnal playground. With its plethora of bars, clubs, and bustling streets, Bairro Alto epitomizes Lisbon’s nightlife.

For those seeking the heart of the action, Lookout Lisbon! The hostel provides a budget-friendly option, while the charming Bairro Alto Hotel offers a more upscale experience.

That being said, when I traveled with my friends we opted for Intendente, where we discovered a splendid 3-bedroom apartment that comfortably housed all five of us. It proved to be an excellent choice, in a safe neighborhood with proximity to the underground station.

Despite the convenience of nearby amenities like restaurants, supermarkets, bars, and bus stops, we often strolled to the city center.

When my friends left and I kept on with my solo journey, I booked myself into  Luciano Cordero Suites. The room was ok, although very small, but with modern decor and good WIFI, and a great breakfast included.

However, it’s on the 4th floor with no elevator, and with 4 bags, it was a bit of a challenge. Also, there was a huge humidity stain on the top left ceiling, which was a bit disgusting.

Other than that, if you book a double bed, the room should be a bit bigger. Make sure you check whether the bathroom is private or not because there are rooms with shared bathrooms.

15 things To know before Visiting Lisbon: Final thoughts

I hope this post on the things to know before visiting Lisbon was helpful and you are now ready to hit the road and explore this vibrant city.

I wrote about Lisbon Extensively and you may want to check out my Lisbon 2-day itinerary to help you plan your trip. If you are planning to stay in Lisbon for a while these amazing day trips from Lisbon will inspire you for sure.

Additionally, if you are wondering whether Lisbon is worth visiting, I would say yes, but you can read more about it in my dedicated post. And you can also read a comparison between Lisbon and Madrid, two very beautiful but very different cities.