9 Best Things to visit in Lisbon for First-Timers
Welcome to Lisbon, a city where history meets modernity, and vibrant culture dances through cobblestone streets. For first-time visitors, navigating the myriad of attractions can be overwhelming. Fear not, as we’ve curated a list of the 9 best things to see in Lisbon, ensuring an unforgettable experience in Portugal’s captivating capital. From historic landmarks to hidden gems, prepare to immerse yourself in the charm and allure of this dynamic city.
SAO JORGE CASTLE
The castle is one of the oldest buildings in Lisbon and also one of the most visited. It is located in the Alfama district, on the highest peak of Lisbon. From there it offers a captivating panoramic view over the city. It may seem that the citadel is part of the Moorish heritage, but the place was previously occupied by Romanians and Visigoths.
ELEVATOR DE SANTA JUSTA
The Elevador de Santa Justa, inspired by the ideas of Gustave Eiffel, transports people from the steep hill in the Baixa neighborhood to Largo do Carmo and the ruins of the Carmo Convent. Adorned with neogothic arches and geometric patterns, this 19th-century elevator ranks among Lisbon’s most artistic and photogenic monuments.
RUINS OF THE CARMO CONVENT
The ruin of the Carmo Convent is placed together with the Archeology Museum, located in the basement of the building. For only 4€, it is one of the attractions that justifies the entry price, for the imposing view. Built-in 1389, the monastery was left in ruins after the All Saints Day Earthquake of 1755. The same happened with much of Lisbon, since it is believed that this was the most powerful earthquake that shook Europe.
PRACO DO COMERCIO
A place that you have to visit during your stay in Lisbon. Because of its large 18th-century arches, lime-colored facades, and alluring mosaics, Praça do Comércio still looks like a gateway to Lisbon, as it used to be. It is located near the river Tejo, which divides the two banks of the city. Also called the “Court of the Palace”, concerning the Ribeira Palace, located nearby.
PRACA DO ROSSIO
Praça do Rossio is the most animated area in Lisbon and the place where both locals and tourists meet. Here you will find the most notable restaurants, bars, and shops in the city. Besides, from Rossio, you can take the train to the surroundings of Lisbon, such as Sintra or Cascais.
TRAM 28
Tram 28 runs through the center of Lisbon, probably the most popular trip of Lisbon. It is a yellow, vintage tram that goes around multiple attractions of the city. It is also one of the most photographed things in Lisbon.
TORRE DE BELEM
A must visit it’s also the neighborhood Belem. Here you can find the well-known Tower. Built-in 1515 as a stronghold to protect the entrance to the port of Lisbon, the Belem Tower was the starting point for many legendary travelers, such as Vasco da Gama. It is a monument of Portugal, often serving as a symbol of the country, and UNESCO has included it in the World Heritage. The ticket to visit the symbolic building in Lisbon is 6€.
MONUMENT OF THE DISCOVERIES
At a walking distance, on the banks of the Tejo River, is the Monument of the Discoveries. It was made in 1960, to commemorate 500 years since the death of Prince Henry the Navigator. It represents a ship, ready to depart, with sculptures of important historical figures. Some of the most known figures are the poet Camões, Vasco da Gama, Magellan, Cabral, King Manuel I, and a few other renowned Portuguese navigators, crusaders, hermits, cartographers, and cosmographers.
JERONIMOS MONASTERY
It was built to commemorate Vasco Da Gama’s voyage and to praise the Virgin Mary for his success. Vasco da Gama’s crypt was placed at the entrance, but it is meriting a visit overall, due to an extraordinary design, characterized by intricate sculptural details and nautical leitmotifs. This style of architecture became known as “Manueline” and dedicated to honoring the great “discoveries” of the era.
BONUS – SINTRA
QUINTA DA REGALEIRA
The first section I toured in Sintra was my favorite. Quinta Da Regaleira strikes with the architecture of the buildings and the landscaping of the gardens. The map I got with the access tickets was very helpful. I believe that without this I would undoubtedly have been lost in the gardens. In any case, I would not have been able to see all that it has to offer. The caves, the observation towers, the fountains, the chapel, the principal building, the narrow paths, the little lakes, the secret tunnels, all create a magical space, filled with a unique energy. The result of the imagination of the creator of this unbelievable place goes beyond any thought.
SINTRA NATIONAL PALACE
The Sintra National Palace with the two unusual towers soaring 33 meters high, is one of the symbols of Portugal not only of Sintra. A fusion of styles – Gothic and Manueline, with many Moorish influences. This palace whose establishment in stone was laid in the thirteenth century by Dinis I, and other kings over the years added various chambers or rooms, is today a museum and can be visited. This one is a great place to visit, but in Sintra, you have more things to see. Obviously here you can take at least two hours if you want to go through all the rooms.
CABO DA ROCA
From Sintra, you reach Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. Be aware that it is windy! Overall, Cabo da Roca offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience on the western edge of Europe.
As Camoes said, you go to see the place where the land meets the sea and for the extraordinary view. Cabo da Roca is high, and below you, about 50 meters, the waves of the Atlantic Ocean are breaking. It is a scene that you will clearly remember.
Exploring Lisbon as a first-timer promises unforgettable memories. From iconic landmarks like the Elevador de Santa Justa to hidden gems, immerse yourself in the city’s charm and culture. Your adventure awaits!
