Lisbon, Portugal is one of Europe’s most delightful destinations. Steeped in history, walkable, affordable, and boasting one of the mildest climates among European capitals, Lisbon—Lisboa in Portuguese—will charm even the most hardened travelers to Europe. It reminds me a great deal of California’s San Francisco, with its maritime location, many steep hills, electric trolleys, and towering bridges—although on a smaller scale.
I wrote this detailed checklist to help you prepare for your upcoming trip. I also include what to wear in Lisbon, what NOT to take, and important FAQs about traveling there. Enjoy the City of Seven Hills!
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What to Pack for Lisbon – 25 Essentials
1. Neck Wallet
Although Lisbon is one of Europe’s safest capitals, it still has its share of pickpockets in crowded areas, like almost any city. To avoid becoming a target while strolling through the Praça do Comércio, it’s a good idea to tuck away your passport, phone, cash, and credit cards in this wearable neck wallet. That way you can focus on enjoying Lisbon’s many charming sites without constantly guarding your belongings. You can wear it cross-body or leave it concealed under your clothing, where it’s still easy to access when you need it.
Because there’s so much to explore in Lisbon, you’ll probably find yourself spending a lot of time outside your hotel like I did. You won’t want to waste time returning to your room to get an umbrella or the sunscreen you forgot. With this stylish and roomy daypack, you’ll be able to carry everything you need with you, such as your wind-proof umbrella, water bottle, camera, and portable charger. This 100% leather daypack has an anti-theft design with its zipper facing toward your back. Be prepared for any eventuality—and look great doing it!
The last thing you want to worry about when enjoying your pasteis de nata pastry is someone stealing your personal information over your WiFi connection. It doesn’t matter where you travel these days—thieves are always looking for an opportunity to snag profitable info from the unwary.
That’s why a good VPN like NordVPN will add an unbreakable layer of encryption to all your WiFI connections, whether through your laptop or smartphone. I always have NordVPN connected when using my devices in public places like restaurants, coffee shops, airports, and lodgings. All it takes is one click to connect, and it’s a super affordable way to get extra peace of mind.
I can’t imagine going back to the days of rummaging through my luggage to find my favorite comfy t-shirt or my earplugs when the Lisbon nightlife gets too loud. Packing cubes are such a time saver—and sanity saver—while traveling that you won’t go back to a jumbled mess again, either. Because they easily fit inside hotel drawers and closets, they make unpacking and repacking a breeze. I love these packing cubes because each comes with an index card on the back so you can label them as you like.
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Lisbon is usually five hours ahead of the East Coast in the US, and eight hours ahead of the West Coast. And you know traveling east is always harder than traveling west when it comes to jet lag. Your circadian rhythm is going to be off when you first arrive, and it could leave you in a zombie-like state for your whole trip. That’s why these jet lag relief tablets will help relieve your jet lag symptoms and give you more energy to enjoy everything Lisbon has to offer. I love them because they use natural botanicals, and they really work!
Like other Schengen visa countries in Europe, Portugal requires travel insurance for anyone entering the country on a visa. Even though a visa is not required for US travelers for the first 90 days, it’s still a really good idea to get travel insurance. With so many variables involved with international travel and insurance companies, I always get travel insurance when I plan to leave the country. It can cover a medical evacuation or international hospital stay when a lot of US health insurers don’t. It also can reimburse you for theft, lost luggage, flight delays, and car rental damage, all of which can add up to hefty bills that may or may not be covered by home insurance or credit cards.
I like Faye because they have a lot of coverage options for very affordable prices. It’s easy to customize your insurance for the number of days you’re traveling and for exactly what you need, so you’re not paying for what you don’t need. I really like their “cancel for any reason” add-on because my plans are so often subject to change. Their 24/7 customer service is exceptional and are always assist you when you need them most without giving you the run-around. It’s such a small cost for providing extra peace of mind.
Even though Lisbon has delightfully dry and sunny summers, it can see frequent windy rain storms blowing in off the Atlantic during the winter. That’s why you don’t want to be stuck with a cheap umbrella that will blow inside-out with the first strong breeze—or worse, have no umbrella with you at all. This windproof travel umbrella will save you from getting soaked, and it fits easily into your daypack or purse with its compact size. There’s no reason to let a breezy rain shower ruin one of your precious days in Lisbon!
One of the most charming things about Lisbon is how you get around. Ferry rides across the wide Tagus River and trolley rides up the narrow, cobblestone streets of Almada are not just for tourists—they are essential ways to move about the City of Seven Hills. If you’re prone to motion sickness, however, the boats rocking up and down and side-to-side at the docks, or the twisty turns of the tram lines may leave you turning green. To avoid an unpleasant experience with Lisbon’s iconic modes of transport, I recommend getting these motion sickness patches. They’re easy to take with you, 100% natural, and won’t make you drowsy. They can be a lifesaver on the plane ride over, too!
Despite Lisbon’s mild seaside climate, it is becoming increasingly prone—like the rest of Europe—to suffocating heat waves, especially in the popular summer months. Lisbon also has a lot of sunshine most of the year, and the sun, combined with excessive heat, can leave you sweaty and uncomfortable. The best way to fight the heat and the sweat is with these cooling towels that become 20-30 degrees cooler than the air temperature just by wrapping them around your neck. They’re non-toxic, come in multiple colors, and are very portable. Pack some with you to make a hot, sunny afternoon more comfortable.
Close to the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is known for its endless variety of mouth-watering seafood dishes. Portuguese cuisine in general is outstanding and will undoubtedly tempt your taste buds. Like with any food you’re not used to, however, it’s quite possible that Lisbon’s chicken piri piri, bacalhau a brás (shredded cod casserole), or bifana (meat) sandwiches could leave you with an upset stomach, or worse. Don’t let a disagreeable dinner leave you stranded in the bathroom. Come prepared with activated charcoal to start feeling betterl fast.
Portugal uses Type C and Type F electrical outlets, which won’t fit the power plugs from the US, so you’ll need an adapter. This universal power adapter will let you charge all your low-power devices like smartphones, laptops, and cameras. It comes with two USB ports for easy charging and a built-in safety fuse to protect your electronics from power surges, which sometimes happen in Portugal. This power adapter works in 100+ countries, too, so you’ll probably never need to buy another adapter again!
Unless you’re going all-out for a luxury hotel room, you might be surprised how small the bathrooms are in Lisbon. Counter space can be at a premium or non-existent. That’s when you’ll find this hanging toiletry bag indispensable. Take advantage of the vertical space and hang it on a towel hook or towel bar so all your toiletries are within easy reach—and you won’t have to unpack and repack them! This beautiful bag unfolds easily and has plenty of room inside. It comes in colors that both women and men will love.
With four internal and 3 external pockets, you can fit every part of your self-care routine in this one bag. The pockets are lined with quality PVC to prevent and leaks from spilling over into your luggage. It helps me stay organized on the go and has been a real sanity-saver!
Although Portugal is a very low-crime country, getting there through multiple airports and cab rides can put your luggage at risk while it’s in transit. Keep your bags secure with TSA-approved locks. Any snoopers who see your locked bags will be deterred and go on to unlocked bags. And the TSA can unlock them with a special key and won’t have to cut incompatible locks.
They’re small and durable enough that you can get some for your checked suitcases, carry-ons, and daypacks or backpacks. They come with a lifetime replacement warranty, so if anything should happen to them, you can get new ones free of charge. These locks are so affordable, too, that you won’t want to pass up the extra peace of mind they’ll give you on your trip to Lisbon.
Lisbon is close to the water, so inevitably, you’re going to get wet—whether going to the nearby beaches on the Atlantic or accidentally getting splashed on the ferry or sailing boats that criss-cross the Tagus River. So taking this very packable quick-dry travel towel with you will be essential for drying off. Lisbon’s mild climate also helps keep swimming pools open longer, so it’s perfect for a few hours by the pool. It’s lightweight and super absorbent and can help you out in a pinch, too, if you find your lodging doesn’t have enough bath towels.
One thing you’ll quickly discover in Lisbon is the abundance of affordable shopping. You could spend an afternoon at the artsy LX Factory alone. Prices are so low, you may be tempted to buy more than what you can reasonably fit in your luggage. That’s why packing this “just in case” bag can save you from overstuffing your bags—risking hefty overweight baggage fees—or paying a lot to ship treasured mementos home. This bag fits perfectly under your plane seat and counts as your personal item bag for the flight home. Don’t let the lack of room hinder your Lisbon shopping excursions!
When you’re a continent away, you don’t have to be out of touch with family and friends, or spend a fortune on roaming rates or so-called “international plans.” A prepaid SIM card is so much better. This one works in 30+ European countries—including Portugal—and allows you to send 1,000 texts and provides you 2 hours of call time. You also get 10 GB of data, so you can navigate the narrow, cobblestone streets of Lisbon’s Alfama district without getting lost. All for one, affordable pre-set price.
Just like with an umbrella and quick-dry towel, you’ll want this waterproof phone pouch so you’re prepared for the moisture in Lisbon. Don’t take a chance that your smartphone will get ruined by an errant splash from the Tagus River or a drop in a swimming pool. This waterproof phone pouch that fits all major phone models will keep your phone dry. You can even take underwater pictures with it! This phone pouch will take the worry out of being near the water in Lisbon.
The tap water in Lisbon is perfectly safe to drink, but a lot of visitors say it has a slightly salty taste, and sometimes the strong taste of chlorine can be off-putting That’s why it’s a good idea to bring a self-filtering water bottle that’ll improve the taste of tap water. This one from Brita comes with its own straw, is dishwasher safe, and is made of BPA-free plastic. Take it with you on your warm walking tours of Lisbon, and you won’t have to worry about hunting for bottled water, which is not good for the environment anyway.
Inevitably, you’ll find Lisbon such a picturesque place that you’ll be snapping photos at every turn. But don’t get that sinking feeling halfway through the day when you find the juice in your smartphone or camera almost gone. This ultra-compact power bank has enough stored power to fully charge the latest smartphone. It’s so small and light that it fits easily in any pocket or purse. There’s no reason to be left uncharged again!
One of the best ways to experience Lisbon is through its unique cuisine, wine, and nightlife. And rather than wandering around aimlessly looking for something memorable, it’s better to reserve a food tour with Get Your Guide. You’ll be taken to all the best local hangouts serving Portuguese classics like bifanas (pulled-pork sandwiches) and piri-piri (spicy) chicken. You can even test your baking skills by learning how to make the delectable pastry pastel de nata that Lisbon is famous for.
In addition, you’ll find guided tours that add extra meaning to Lisbon’s biggest and most beautiful attractions like the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and Christ the King Sanctuary that is modeled after Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue. And one of the best Get Your Guide tours in Lisbon? A sailboat cruise at sunset on the wide Tagus River.
Most of the top sites in Lisbon are in a relatively compact area, which makes walking around the best way to see them. That means bringing comfortable walking shoes is essential. But you don’t have to give up style for comfort. In fact, you shouldn’t if you don’t want to stand out as a tourist — sneakers are just a dead giveaway. With these comfortable flats, your feet won’t get tired of exploring the vibrant streets of the Bairro Alto neighborhood, and they won’t scream “tourist”!
Speaking of style, you’ll stand out in a good way in this fashionable yet comfortable jumpsuit that is super versatile for all kinds of occasions. It’s airy and breathable enough for touring Lisbon’s Commerce Square or LX Factory on a hot afternoon, yet chic enough for cocktail hour and dancing the night away in the vibrant Cais do Sodré neighborhood. Whatever the occasion, this gorgeous jumpsuit will make you look elegant doing it!
Chances are you’ll be on a flight (or two!) of 4 to 6 hours getting to Lisbon. I’ve found one of the best ways to prevent stiffness and soreness from a long trip is to wear compression socks like these ones. I was skeptical before trying them, but they really do help promote circulation throughout your whole body when you’re seated for hours at a time. And the last thing you need is to risk a dangerous blood clot to start your vacation. They’ll also combat achy feet when you’re out exploring Lisbon all day.
Being close to the Atlantic and the Tagus River, Lisbon can be pretty muggy in the summer. Combine that with bright sunshine, and you’ll inevitably find yourself sweating a lot. To avoid getting stinky, pack some of these pocket-sized deodorant wipes in your day bag and deploy them when needed. You’ll feel instantly refreshed and you’ll be left smelling clean. They also help protect your skin from irritation, and they’re biodegradable.
Not far from central Lisbon and lining the Atlantic Ocean are a number of beautiful beaches, including the stunning Praia de Carcavelos. Rather than shelling out money for renting blankets or hauling towels from the hotel, drop this easily portable outdoor blanket into your daypack. It’s perfect for the beach because it’s waterproof and sand proof, so you won’t come back with a messy reminder of your excursion. This blanket is also great for impromptu picnics or just spreading out over an outdoor table.
When packing for a trip to Lisbon, think about the time of year you’ll be visiting. Summers are typically warm and sunny, making clothing such as lightweight, breathable fabrics essential. Winters are relatively mild but can be damp, so pack layers with sweaters, jeans, and a waterproof jacket.
Being European, locals embrace a casual yet stylish look, favoring comfortable attire. Versatile pieces like t-shirts, blouses, and button-down shirts that can easily transition from day to night are a good bet year-round. A hat and sunglasses are crucial during sunny summer days, while you’ll need a compact umbrella for rainy winters. Whether exploring historic neighborhoods or enjoying Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife, dressing comfortably and stylishly is the key to blending in with the locals.
What should WOMEN wear in Lisbon?– (Click to expand)
For women traveling to Lisbon, packing versatile clothing to suit the season you’ll be there is key. In summer, opt for breezy sundresses, shorts, and lightweight tops to stay cool while exploring the city’s charming streets. Spring and fall call for layers, such as stylish cardigans, comfortable jeans, and chic blouses. Winters are relatively cool and wet, so a mix of sweaters, jeans, and a waterproof jacket will keep you warm and dry. Lisbon’s casual yet fashionable atmosphere encourages a blend of comfort and style, so consider packing stylish accessories like scarves and comfortable footwear that can stand up to cobblestone streets. Don’t forget a swimsuit for beachside excursions in the warmer months.
What should MEN wear in Lisbon?– (Click to expand)
For men visiting Lisbon, a well-rounded wardrobe adjusted to the city’s varied seasons is essential. The warm, sunny summers call for lightweight options like shorts, fashionable t-shirts, and breathable fabrics like linen that will help keep you cool. In spring and fall, layering with stylish button-down shirts, comfortable jeans, and a light jacket is ideal for the warm days and cool nights. Winters are relatively mild yet wet, so a mix of sweaters, jeans, and a waterproof jacket will be needed. Lisbon’s laid-back yet trendy style encourages a smart-casual approach, so include versatile pieces like chinos and button-downs for going out. Accessories like sunglasses and a hat are essential in summer, and a stylish scarf will complete your winter look.
Dressing for the Seasons in Lisbon
Lisbon’s seaside and southerly locale make it one of the most temperate capitals in Europe. Even the hottest days of summer are often moderated by a cool breeze off the water. Summer sunshine is abundant, so it’s a good idea to bring plenty of sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. Likewise in winter, the maritime climate means temperatures almost never fall below freezing and mild days are common. Winters are considerably wetter than summers, however, so it’s important to pack waterproof jackets and umbrellas for that time of year.
SUMMER – June, July, and August
Summer in Lisbon is usually very dry, sunny, and warm. Bringing plenty of lightweight, breathable clothing is the key to comfort. Daytime temperatures range from pleasantly warm to scorching hot during heat waves. Summer nights are pleasantly cool but some might want a light jacket or shawl if it’s breezy. Like other Europeans, Lisboans don’t usually wear shorts except near the water. The rest of the time, you’ll want to pack several matchable, loose-fitting shirts, linen pants, and skirts. Sundresses are perfect as well for Lisbon’s many warm, sunny days in summer.
Much of central Lisbon doesn’t have wide sidewalks, so inevitably you’ll find yourself walking on the many cobblestone streets. That’s why sturdy, yet comfortable, walking shoes are paramount for all-day walking tours and excursions. For something more airy on hot days, sandals are a good way to go. Evenings call for something more stylish, like these cute flats or these easy-to-walk-in heels for fancy dinners. Daytime highs average from 78°F to 83°F (26°C to 28°C) and nighttime lows average from 62°F to 66°F (17°C to 19°C).
FALL – September and October
Autumn is one of the best times of the year to visit Lisbon. The heat waves of summer are largely gone, yet temperatures remain mild. September can still resemble summer with many warm and sunny days. October is slightly cooler with a few more rain showers, but the weather is still quite pleasant for walking and boat tours.
Packing a mixture of lightweight and warmer clothing is the best way to be prepared for Lisbon’s variable fall weather. With more rain showers, especially in late October, you’ll want to be prepared with a light rain jacket and these closed-toed shoes. Besides a few light shirts and skirts, it’s wise to also bring warmer pants, a few long-sleeved tops, and a cardigan for slightly cooler, wetter days. High temperatures average from 73°F to 80°F (23°C to 27°C) and lows average from 59°F to 64°F (15°C to 18°C).
WINTER – November, December, January, and February
Winter is very wet in Lisbon, but temperatures are still relatively mild compared to the rest of Europe. Nonetheless, the dampness can make the air feel colder than what the thermometer indicates. That’s why it’s wise to pack a good mix of warmer clothing like pants, slacks, leggings, sweater dresses, cardigans, and long-sleeved shirts. It’s also a good idea to bring a classic raincoat and warmer coat for chilly evenings.
To protect your feet from puddles and splashes, pack these functional boots that will go with any style of jeans or pants. For evenings out, take these high-ankle boots to look stylish and to stay dry. Also be sure to bring this portable windproof travel umbrella for rainy days. High temperatures average from 59°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C) and lows average from 47°F to 53°F (8°C to 12°C).
SPRING – March, April, and May
Spring is also one of the best seasons to visit Lisbon. The rain starts to let up, the sun appears more often, and temperatures warm. This is when you can bring more t-shirts and lightweight tops. Jeans and long pants are a good idea for this time of year because evenings and nights can still be a little chilly, which means women may want to bring a shawl.
A lightweight raincoat will come in handy for the few afternoon showers that pop up, and these leather suede shoes will be a stylish addition to your wardrobe for the warmer, drier days. High temperatures average from 66°F to 72°F (19°C to 22°C) and lows average from 52°F to 57°F (11°C to 14°C).
How to dress for the activity in Lisbon – (Click to expand)
Lisbon’s waterfront charm invites strolling along the Tagus River, taking in boat adventures, and experiencing the delightful mix of historical landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods. Here’s how to dress appropriately for each type of activity to ensure you stay comfortable and get the most of your time in Lisbon.
Sightseeing: Many of Lisbon’s historical landmarks are outdoors, so it’s wise to plan for frequent hopping between inside and outside spaces. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and often on cobblestone streets, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the Baixa and Alfama districts. Women should think about layering, as indoor spaces can be quite cool and outdoor ones warm and muggy. Opt for comfortable yet stylish clothing like breathable sundresses or dark jeans paired with a tee. Choose comfortable sneakers or sandals for walking and carry a stylish daypack for essentials. Men will do well to stick to casual chic with chinos or comfortable jeans and a lightweight shirt. A rugged backpack completes the look.
Visiting Cafes, Markets, and Restaurants: To fit into Lisbon’s busy dining scene, women will want to blend style and practicality with dark pants, a striped shirt, and comfortable flats. A crossbody bag adds functionality. Men will be comfortable with a refined yet relaxed look with dark jeans and a stylish button-down shirt. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring marketplaces and dining al fresco.
Going Out at Night: Smart-casual is the word for going out to the theater, bars, and nightclubs in the bustling Bairro Alto. Women will look stylish in a versatile black dress, minimal makeup, and medium heels. Men can elevate their style with nice button-downs and tailored slacks. A light jacket or sweater is handy for cooler evenings.
Boat Excursions: With multiple marinas and boat tours available in Lisbon, you won’t want to pass up a memorable sundowner cruise. Women will do well to choose lightweight, water-resistant clothing, such as shorts or a casual skirt paired with a breathable top. Don’t forget a sun hat, sunglasses, and comfortable slip-on shoes. A light jacket or sweater may be needed for breezy moments on the water. Men will be comfortable in shorts or casual pants paired with a short-sleeved shirt. Boat shoes with non-slip soles are practical, and a hat and sunglasses will provide protection from the sun. Consider bringing a light jacket for cool breezes.
What NOT to Bring to Lisbon
1.DON’T PACK heavy items
With airline baggage fees so high these days, you don’t want to find yourself over the weight limit and spending more than you have to on the transatlantic flight to Lisbon. Plus, you don’t want to be dragging heavy bags over Lisbon’s cobblestone streets, either. That’s why I don’t recommend bringing heavy books, heavy coats, or lots of heavy sweaters – you won’t need them in Lisbon anyway.
2.DON’T BRING too many clothes and shoes
Most of us tend to overpack, but Lisbon’s temperate climate will make it easier for you to leave more items at home. You only need to bring a few versatile pieces to put together a week’s worth of outfits, even in winter. Plus, two pairs of shoes in addition to the ones you wear on the plane will be plenty, and you can leave the big coats, hats, and mittens at home.
3.DON’T BRING excessive amounts of cash
You really don’t need a lot of cash, which can just get lost or stolen. Nearly all businesses in Lisbon readily accept credit and debit cards. And if you do want to have a little cash on hand, ATMs are plentiful and will give you the best exchange rate. Just be sure to let your bank know when and where you’re traveling (for credit cards, too) so your transactions are not unnecessarily blocked.
4.DON’T PACK skimpy clothes
Lisbon is a modern, European city, but even so, most Portuguese are devout Catholics more than in other parts of Europe. This means showing a lot of skin in public is frowned upon, and wearing items like skimpy tank tops and cut-off shorts will get you barred from places you don’t want to miss, such as the impressive UNESCO-listed Jeronimos Monastery and the Sanctuary of Christ the King, which was modeled on the famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro. If you do bring anything skimpy, save it for your hotel pool or the beach.
5.DON’T TAKE anything that makes you look like a tourist
If you want to get better treatment in restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, don’t wear touristy clothes. Nothing says “tourist” in Lisbon faster than floral-print shirts, shorts, t-shirts emblazoned with cartoon characters, or baseball caps. A fanny pack won’t help your cause, either. Leave all that stuff at home so you don’t stick out like a sore thumb and leave Lisboans making unflattering assumptions about you.
6.DON’T BRING expensive items or nice jewelry
Even though Lisbon is not a high-crime city, don’t make yourself a target of opportunity by sporting valuable rings, necklaces, or watches. It’s better to wear low-key costume jewelry and use simple and unflashy wrist wear.
What should I NOT wear in Lisbon – (Click to expand)
Avoiding touristy clothing choices in Lisbon will help you blend in with locals and get better treatment from tour operators and restaurateurs. For both men and women, steer clear of overly flashy or gaudy attire, such as large logo-laden t-shirts and cargo shorts. Although Lisbon’s vibe is casual, avoid overly revealing or beachwear-style outfits when exploring the Baixa (city center). You don’t need to bring formal attire like suits for men or evening gowns for women unless you’re attending a specific event or know a certain upscale venue has a dress code (these are uncommon). Women should reconsider high heels for everyday activities due to the city’s cobblestone streets.
FAQs about traveling to Lisbon
1. How much money will I need daily to enjoy Lisbon?
It ultimately depends on your tastes and what you plan to do, but know that Lisbon is one of the most affordable cities in Europe. You might be shocked at just how low food and transport costs really are. A daily budget of $50 per person should cover meals, transport, and attractions. Hotels of 2-star to 4-star quality range from about $40 to $120 per night, even in the city center; 5-star hotels generally stay under $350 per night. If you get an apartment rental or hotel room with a kitchenette, you can save even more by buying groceries (at about $20/bag) and making your own meals.
2. Do I need to tip servers in restaurants in Lisbon?
Tipping in eating establishments in Lisbon is purely optional, and a service charge is usually not added except at high-end restaurants. That said, most locals eating at cafes and casual eateries and drinking at bars round up the bill to leave a few extra euros for the server. For example, leaving an extra €2 on an €18 check would suffice, unless you want to leave a little more for excellent service. At expensive restaurants or other places with a large party of guests, a 10% gratuity would be expected.
3. What are some good day trips from Lisbon?
Being close to the Atlantic Ocean means there are several sandy beaches within an hour’s drive of Lisbon. The beautiful Praia da Torre and Praia de Carcavelos are popular in summer as both have rentals for beach chairs and umbrellas, and there are a number of good eateries nearby. Another excursion worth taking is a tour that explores the many medieval castles and towers surrounding Lisbon. Perhaps the most striking is the colorful Pena National Palace in Sintra.
4. What is the best time of year to visit Lisbon?
The weather in the summer months is usually delightful, but the tourist crowds are also at their highest then, especially in July and August. The shoulder months of April, May, September, and October still have warm to mild temperatures and little rainfall, so they make good options for avoiding the throngs of summer.
5. What is the best way to get around Lisbon?
Because the Lisbon city center and surrounding neighborhoods are compact and full of narrow streets, walking is the best way to get around. The small metro (subway) system makes for the easiest way to get to and from the airport. But in the city itself, the famous electric tram lines are more extensive (and fun) and will take you to most places you want to go in Lisbon. Best of all, these public transportation options are super affordable. Taxis and rideshares are also available, but you’ll risk getting caught in traffic with them.
6. What are my options for getting from the Lisbon airport to the city center?
Humberto Delgado International Airport (LIS) is only about 5 miles (8 km) from Lisbon’s center, so getting to and from there is generally quick and easy. A taxi ride is about 15-20 minutes and will cost between €10 and €18, depending on the day of the week and time of day. A much more affordable option is to take the metro to downtown for only €1.95, including the purchase of a farecard. It gets you there in 20 minutes but does involve changing stations twice, so it may not be the easiest option if you have a lot of bags. An alternative is to take the privately operated Aerobus shuttle, which costs only €1.80 and doesn’t involve changing buses, but it can take upward of an hour to get to the city center.
Asher has been traveling the world since he left Australia to study in the USA in 2004. He received a Master’s in Business Administration degree in 2013. He has lived all over the globe including India, Europe, Hawaii, and mainland US. He enjoys researching the travel industry, loves being a dad, cooking & eating delicious food, photography (took many of our photos), surfing big waves on Maui, camping trips and walking barefoot on the earth.
