Choose from 85 Fun Things to Do in Lisbon
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Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
Set in a lush garden, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is regarded as one of Portugal’s finest private collections and contains artworks ranging from ancient Egyptian sculptures to modernist paintings. The museum also houses a large selection of European art, with pieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet, Van Dyck, and Renoir.
The Basics
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum contains two distinct collections: the Founder’s Collection, with over 6,000 pieces gathered by Calouste Gulbenkian himself, and the Modern Collection, which contains more than 10,000 works of modern and contemporary Portuguese art. After you peruse the museum’s pristine modernist interior, make sure to step outside and explore the winding paths and manicured lawns of Gulbenkian Garden.
Book your ticket in advance to save time and avoid waiting in line. It’s also possible to visit on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour to see the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum along with other Lisbon attractions such as Marquȇs do Pombal Square (Praça Marquês de Pombal) and Belém Tower (Torre de Belém).
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is a must-see for art lovers.
- Restaurants, a book store, and an ATM are located on-site.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the museum and surrounding garden.
- The museum and gardens are fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is located on Avenida de Berna, roughly 15 minutes by road from Comércio Plaza (Praça do Comércio) and Lisbon’s waterfront area. Take the metro to either São Sebastião or Praça de Espanha station. Alternatively, you can arrive by bus, taxi, or on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour.
When to Get There
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and Gulbenkian Garden are open year-round, although the museum is closed on Tuesdays and some holidays. Opt for an early morning or late-afternoon visit to avoid crowds.
History of the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
Wealthy collector Calouste Gulbenkian amassed art for more than 40 years until his death in 1955, leaving his collection to the country of Portugal to be set up as a museum for the general public. His original collection contains paintings by European masters along with ancient relics such as a gold Egyptian mummy mask, a vast collection of Hellenic coins, rare Chinese porcelain items, Japanese prints, and Persian tapestries from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Address: Avenida de Berna, 45A, Lisbon 1067, Portugal
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Bel em Tower (Torre de Bel em)
A mighty medieval fortress perched on the banks of the Tagus River, Belem Tower is one of Lisbon’s most visited landmarks. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the nearby Jeronimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jeronimos), it’s a lasting symbol of Portugal’s maritime heritage, dating back to the early 16th century.
The Basics
Belem Tower is a popular inclusion on sightseeing tours of Lisbon and can be visited on a walking tour or as part of a full-day private tour of Lisbon, Sintra, or Arrabida. Visitors can view the tower from the waterfront steps or enter to take in the views from the bulwark terrace, peek into the Governor's Room and King’s Room, and climb to the top of the tower. Its stately face can also be viewed on a river cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Combined tickets are available for the Belem Tower, the Jeronimos Monastery, and the National Archeological Museum.
- The tower is closed on Mondays.
- The tower is only partially wheelchair accessible; those with limited mobility will only be able to explore the exterior and the lower battery.
How to Get There
Belem Tower is located in the Belem district of Lisbon, about four miles (six kilometers) west of the city center. The easiest way to get there is by tram—take the No. 15 from Praca da Figueira in central Lisbon toward Alges, and get off at Mosteiro dos Jeronimos (one stop beyond Belem). From there, it’s a short walk through the monastery gardens to the riverfront park, where you will be able to see the tower.
When to Get There
Belem Tower is open all year round but it can get crowded during the peak summer months, so you may want to arrive early (and opt for a weekday visit if possible). For the most atmospheric photo opportunities, visit at sunset or sunrise to admire the dramatic facade.
A Walking Tour of Belem
One of Lisbon’s most picturesque districts, Belem teems with historic monuments. After marveling at the tower and visiting the Jeronimos Monastery, take a stroll through the riverside gardens, visit Belem Palace, or browse the exhibits at the Maritime Museum or the National Coach Museum. Be sure to sample local delicacy pasteis de Belem (sweet pastries) while you’re in the neighborhood.
Address: Avendia da India, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Oct - Apr: 10am - 5pm, May - Sept: 10am - 6:30pm. Closed Mondays, January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, December 25
Admission: Adults: € 6
From $ 10
Estoril
If you have found yourself in beautiful Portugal, chances are you’re looking for a place to get away and relax for awhile.
Located just 9 miles from Lisbon, Estoril is a popular resort town on the water where you can enjoy a very sophisticated variation of foods, modern amenities, and of course, the beach. During the day you could be in or on the water, fishing, windsurfing, diving, or water-skiing--or if you fancy--shooting 18-holes at one of the Estoril Coast’s 7 courses, including sought after Atlantico. By night, you may decide to roll the dice at Esotril’s famous Casino Estoril.
If you’re looking for something a little more tame, there are also a load of cultural sites to visit, including the exotic yet beautiful Pena Palace and Park, or go check out the Iberian Wolf Sanctuary, where you can observe or even adopt one of these majestic creatures.
Located just 9 miles from Lisbon, Estoril is a popular resort town on the water where you can enjoy a very sophisticated variation of foods, modern amenities, and of course, the beach. During the day you could be in or on the water, fishing, windsurfing, diving, or water-skiing--or if you fancy--shooting 18-holes at one of the Estoril Coast’s 7 courses, including sought after Atlantico. By night, you may decide to roll the dice at Esotril’s famous Casino Estoril.
If you’re looking for something a little more tame, there are also a load of cultural sites to visit, including the exotic yet beautiful Pena Palace and Park, or go check out the Iberian Wolf Sanctuary, where you can observe or even adopt one of these majestic creatures.
Practical Info
As a major resort town that is very close to the country’s capital, it is often packed full of people, and so there are a vast amount of places one could choose to stay, including inns, hotel-apartments, and 5-star hotels.
Address: Estoril, Portugal
From $ 67
Estrela Basilica
Queen Mary I of Portugal built the rococo-style Estrela Basilica (Basílica da Estrela), a church and convent, in the late 1700s to honor the birth of her son, Prince Jose. Unfortunately Prince Jose died two years before the completion of the Lisbon basilica, which is now a memorial to the fallen prince—and the tomb of the grief-stricken queen.
The Basics
Estrela Basilica’s sugar-white dome and twin bell towers are hard to miss on the city skyline. Its interior is covered in intricate geometric patterns of black, pink, and yellow marble. The famous Nativity scene—500 cork and terracotta figures sculpted by Joaquim Machado de Castro—attracts numerous visitors. Climb the 112 steps to the rococo dome for sweeping Lisbon views.
The basilica is generally included in most hop-on hop-off and tuk-tuk tours. If you want a more intimate experience, book a small-group or private tour to learn more about the basilica and the western neighborhoods of Lisbon.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Estrela Basilica is a must-visit for architecture lovers and religious patrons.
- Visitors generally spend about 30 minutes exploring the basilica.
- Admission to the basilica is free but there are small fees to see the Nativity scene and to access the dome.
- There is no accessible entrance, however the ground floor of the basilica does not have any hindrances for wheelchairs.
How to Get There
The basilica is located at Largo da Estrela, sitting on one of Lisbon’s seven hills. Take the historic tram 25 or 28 to the Estrela stop, or city bus 713, 773, or 774. The closest metro station is Rato, about a 15-minute walk from the church.
When to Get There
The basilica is open from 7:30am to 8pm daily. Though it is rarely crowded, for the most contemplative experience visit in the early morning en route to exploring the nearby historic town of Belem, or in late afternoon before heading to the popular LX Factory in Alcantara.
The Story of the Estrela Basilica
Queen Mary I was the first monarch to rule over all of what is today Portugal and Brazil, and she desperately wanted an heir to the throne. A religious devotee, she prayed to God for a healthy child and, in return, would build the greatest church in Lisbon. Once her son Jose was was born, she immediately began construction on the basilica. Due to its intricate details and grand size, the complex took a long time to construct—and Jose died from smallpox before its completion.
Address: Largo da Estrela, Lisbon, Portugal
From $ 17
Berardo Collection Museum (Museu Colecao Berardo)
Considered the best modern and contemporary art museum in Portugal, the Berardo Collection is own by billionaire art collector José Berardo. Both the permanent collection and the rotating exhibits are housed in an all white, modern, minimalist building located in the Belém neighborhood of Lisbon.
The carefully curated permanent collection uses chronological order to take visitors through the evolution of modern art from the early 20th century through the present day. The first exhibition focuses on art from 1900 – 1960 and includes works by famed cubism artists Pablo Picasso and Marcel Duchamp, as well as abstractionist painter Maria Helena Vieira da Silva and surrealist pioneer, Salvador Dali. The second part of the permanent collection focuses on art from 1960 – 1990, and
includes recognizable pieces like Andy Warhol’s silk screen prints of Judy Garland and Campbell’s Tomato Soup alongside unique, unexpected pieces from lesser-known modern artists.
The museum is quite large and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for a rainy day activity — not to mention that admission is free. Beyond the art, there’s a lovely café and restaurant that faces the expansive lawn and well-kept gardens as well as a museum shop with interesting trinkets and gifts.
Practical Info
The Berardo Collection Museum is located at the Centro Cultural de Belém in Praça Império in the Belém neighborhood. It is open every day from 10 a.m, to 7 p.m. and admission is free.
Address: Praça do Império, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Monday – Sunday 10 a.m, to 7 p.m.
From $ 6
Berlengas Archipelago
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a popular destination for hikers, snorkelers, and divers, the Berlengas archipelago is a collection of small islands and reefs off the coast of Peniche, Portugal. Only one of the islands is inhabited, and the unspoiled scenery and secret sandy coves draw visitors from far and wide.
The Basics
Some 6 miles (10 kilometers) off the Portuguese coast, none of the Berlengas islands has a permanent population. The biggest island, Berlenga Grande, is famous for its 17th-century fort—Fort St. John the Baptist (Forte de São João Baptista)—connected to the land via a precarious stone causeway. Before the fort was constructed a monastery existed on the same site, but it was abandoned after frequent raids from pirates.
The area around the islands is a protected zone for the preservation of local birds and sea life, and only fairly small numbers of tourists are permitted per year. Visitors take the ferry from the mainland or visit Berlenga Grande as part of an all-day guided tour from Lisbon. From the harbor area, you can hike to one of the beaches or see the fort before returning to the mainland.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Access to Berlenga Grande is via boat only.
- The island has uneven terrain and is not suitable for people with limited mobility.
- Glass-bottom boat tours visit the caves around the island’s exterior.
- There is a café/restaurant on the island, but it is advisable to bring extra water with you.
- The fort also serves as an overnight hostel for visitors.
- The waters around the Berlengas are popular with divers and snorkelers.
How to Get There
The Berlengas archipelago is located off the coast of Portugal, approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) from the coastal town of Peniche. Visitors can take the seasonal ferry from Peniche to the harbor on Berlenga Grande or take part in a guided boat tour with round-trip transfers provided.
When to Get There
Boat tours and passenger ferries visit Berlenga Grande in the summer months only—the sea is too rough in the winter for small boats to operate. Ferries run from late May to mid-September.
Exploring the Town of Peniche
The jumping-off point for boat tours and ferry rides across to the Berlengas archipelago, Peniche town is worth a stop too. Visitors interested in history can tour the fortress that housed political prisoners of 20th-century Portuguese dictator António de Oliveira Salazar. Those looking to relax can take a seat on one of the sandy beaches that draw local surfers or head to a seafood restaurant serving up the catch of the day.
Address: Lisbon, Portugal
From $ 92
Chiado
Squeezed between downtown Baixa and the nightlife party-central of the Bairro Alto, glossy Chiado is within shouting distance of the romantic ruins of Carmo Church (Igreja do Carmo) and the hidden treasures in the Church of St Rocco (Igreja de São Roque). It is also home to glorious Art Nouveau shops, old-world Lisboa cafés with window displays brimming with delicious pastries, and timeless antiquarian bookshops. Amid the fine 19th-century townhouses fronted with wrought-iron balconies and the piazzas with madly patterned mosaic sidewalks stand top-end fashion designers, jewelers, theaters, concert halls and posh boutique hotels. An eclectic mix of restaurants – from Michelin stars at Belcanto to basic snacks at neighborhood tapas bars – adds to the cultural soup of this sleek hillside enclave.
When Chiado was hit by fire in 1988, the famous Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira (who redesigned much of central Porto) was called in to oversee the regeneration of the area; he designed the sophisticated mall Armazéns do Chiado and restored the Art Nouveau glamor of streets such as Rua Garrett, with its host of charming cafés. The hip area of Príncipe Reale is known for design stores and antique shops while also doubling as one of Lisbon’s leading gay quarters; interwoven into all this urban sophistication are hidden nooks and crannies such as shady Praça das Flores, perfect for people watching over a glass of port and a custard Pasteis de Nata.
Practical Info
Walk up to Chiado from Baixa or take the Metro to Baixa-Chiado.
Address: Lisbon, Portugal
From $ 6
Estádio da Luz
The Estadio da Luz, or Stadium of Light, is a multipurpose stadium best known for being the home of Portugal’s leading football team, Sport Lisboa Benfica. It has seating capacity for over 65,000 people and features a retractable roof. The stadium has facilities for hockey, volleyball, and basketball as well as swimming pools and health clubs.
The Basics
The Estadio da Luz was built on top of the old Cathedral stadium and was completed in time to host the 2004 European Championship. On non-event days, the guided tours are available for guests to visit generally off-limits areas such as the dressing room, tunnels, and the pitch. Visitors can also opt for a more in-depth experience and visit book a private tour of the stadium and the adjacent Benfica Museum to learn more about their histories.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Stadium of Light is a must visit for soccer fans and sports lovers.
- Wheelchair-accessible seating is available on the ground floor.
- The stadium is also home to a slew of bars and two panoramic restaurants.
How to Get There
The stadium is located at Av. Eusébio da Silva Ferreira in Lisbon’s Benfica neighborhood and is easily accessible by public transport. Visitors can take the Azul line to the Colegio Militar/Luz line, directly in front of the complex, as well as city bus 750 to the Estadio da Luz stop.
When to Get There
The best time to visit the stadium is during non-match days when you can visit the grounds without any crowds. For those who would like to see a game and experience the electrifying energy of this Portuguese tradition, plan to visit during the soccer season from September to June when there is generally a home game every 10 days.
The Benfica Cosme Damiao Museum
The interactive museum adjacent to the stadium is named after a soccer legend who established the Portuguese football league in the 1920s. The 3-floor museum features over 1,000 trophies, and offers visitors a chance to discover the rich history of soccer in Portugal as they explore exhibits and enjoy a movie about the club’s history.
Address: Avenida General Norton de Matos, Lisbon, Portugal
Admission: Varies
From $ 20
Cabo da Roca
Cabo da Roca, just north of Lisbon, is known for its dramatic views and scenic cliff-top walking path. The westernmost point in continental Europe and once believed by Europeans to be the edge of the world, today it is home to a defensive lighthouse that was built in the 16th century and serves as a haven for local birdlife.
The Basics
In the 16th-century glory days of worldwide maritime exploration, Portugal was one of the most important countries in the world, with interests in Brazil, India, China, and Africa. With riches arriving from far and wide, the country built a series of defensive outposts to guard Lisbon, the capital city, including at Cabo da Roca. Today you can walk around (but not inside) the current lighthouse, which was built in the 18th century; see the nearby church with its blue and white azuelo tiles; and stand on the windswept headland and imagine mariners heading out to the New World, more than 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers) away.
Cabo da Roca is a popular stop on guided tours of the region, which also take in the nearby hilltop town of Sintra and typically provide round-trip transportation from Lisbon.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There’s no entrance fee to access Cabo da Roca.
- Visit at sunset for great photo opportunities.
- You’ll find a small souvenir store and café on site.
- The area around the lighthouse and church is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Cabo da Roca is located 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Lisbon, between the towns of Cascais and Sintra. It’s accessible by car, guided tour, or public bus—403 runs from Cascais to Sintra and stops at Cabo da Roca.
When to Get There
Cabo da Roca is open year-round. It is usually windy at the cape and can be cooler than in the surrounding areas, even in mid-summer. Take extra care on the paths if you’re visiting in rainy or very windy conditions.
Visit the Palaces of Sintra
Twelve miles (20 kilometers) inland of Cabo da Roca is the enchanting town of Sintra, where colorful palaces and fairy-tale castles perch on tree-covered hills. Used by the Portuguese Royal Family as their summer residence, the red and yellow Pena Palace is straight out of a storybook. The other grand buildings, built by members of the aristocracy and other dignitaries, recall the days when the town was a magnet for Lisbon’s wealthiest residents.
Address: Estrada do Cabo da Roca, Colares 2705-001, Portugal
From $ 34
Evora
One of Portugal’s most fascinating destinations, Evora is a city full of historic national treasures that keep any visitor intrigued. From the Roman ruins of the Templo de Diana (Temple of Diana) featuring 14 original Corinthian columns, to the Capela dos Ossos (Bones of Chapel), which is completely decorated with human bones, Evora contains corner to corner historical encounters.
For a full-on educational experience on the history of this tremendous city, be sure to spend some time in the Historic Center of Evora, where you can discover ancient megaliths dating back to as far as 4000 BC, while puzzling together Evora’s diverse and immense background.
After visiting the Historic Center, take a second look around the city’s landmarks and architecture. You won’t be surprised to see that for such a small place, there is a wide array of buildings and designs from the renaissance, baroque, gothic, roman, and other eras.
For a full-on educational experience on the history of this tremendous city, be sure to spend some time in the Historic Center of Evora, where you can discover ancient megaliths dating back to as far as 4000 BC, while puzzling together Evora’s diverse and immense background.
After visiting the Historic Center, take a second look around the city’s landmarks and architecture. You won’t be surprised to see that for such a small place, there is a wide array of buildings and designs from the renaissance, baroque, gothic, roman, and other eras.
Practical Info
Located in Southern Portugal, Evora is a notably hot city, so be sure
when visiting that you bring plenty of water and closely watch weather
advisories. About 87 miles away from Lisbon, the best way to reach the
city is by car, although if that is not an option you prefer, you can
just as easily take the Intercity train or the express bus offered by
Rede expressos out of Lisbon.
Address: Evora, Portugal
From $ 58
Bel em Palace (Palacio de Bel em)
Belem Palace was the official residence of Portugal's monarchs, and since 1910 it has been the home of the country's Presidents. It is located in the Belem neighborhood on a hill near the banks of the Tagus River. It consists of five buildings and was constructed in the late 16th century. There are manicured gardens and a statue of Afonso de Albuquerque, the Viceroy of India, standing on a 20 meter high pedestal in front of the palace. The changing of the guard takes place at 11am on the third Sunday of each month near the Patio dos Bichos entrance.
Today the palace also houses the Presidency Museum, which examines the history of the Portuguese Republic and its presidents. It has a permanent exhibit that explains the history of the country's symbols, such as the flag and the national anthem. Another section looks at the role of the presidents through a collection of photographs. There are portraits of each the country's presidents in one section and gifts the presidents received from other world leaders in another part of the museum.
Practical Info
Belem Palace is located at Praca Afonso de Albuquerque. To get there take tram 15. The palace can be visited on Saturdays from 10:30am to 4:30pm. The Presidency Museum is open from 10am to 6pm daily except Mondays. Admission is 5 euros.
Address: Praca Afonso de Albuquerque, Lisbon, Lisboa 1300, Portugal
Hours: Palace: Saturdays 10:30am to 4:30pm; Museum: Open daily except Mondays 10am to 6pm
Admission: 5 euros
From $ 23
Bica Funicular (Elevador da Bica)
One of the primary modes of public transportation in hilly Lisbon are funiculars, and the Bica Funicular (Elevador da Bica) has been ferrying passengers up the hill along Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo between Rua de São Paulo and Calçada do Combro since 1892.
The Bica Funicular comprises two yellow and white cars traveling in opposite directions, both with sitting and standing space. For visitors in the lower parts of Lisbon, this funicular provides a wonderful way to save leg muscles on the way up to São Jorge Castle.
Those curious about the history of Lisbon’s funiculars (and other forms of public transportation) can learn more with a visit to the Carris Museum
Practical Info
If you plan on using public transportation often, it’s cheaper to buy a Lisbon card or Viva Viagem card from the metro instead of purchasing tickets individually.
Address: Rua de São Paulo, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Open Mon-Sat 7am-9pm; Sun and holidays 9am-9pm
Admission: €3.60 RT
From $ 16
Freeport Outlet Alcochete
Freeport Outlet just outside of Lisbon is the largest collection of outlet shops in Europe. With retail shops featuring everything from home decor and appliances to clothing and beauty, shoppers can find some of Europe’s best brands at lower than their original prices. Many of the shops offer up to 60 percent off what they would sell for in department stores. As discount shopping is generally not as widely available in Europe as it is in other parts of the world, this a shopping destination for many Europeans. There are both Spanish and Portuguese brands as well as international brands to select from.
Restaurants, coffee shops, an outdoor promenade, and frequent events for shoppers and families round out the experience. Much of the exterior is well-designed with artistic touches.
Practical Info
The Freeport Outlet shops are open Sunday to Thursday from 10 am to 10 pm, with restaurants open from 12 pm to 11 pm. Shops hours are extended by an hour on Fridays. To get there, take the dedicated shuttle from Lisbon’s city center, or alternatively by TST buses numbers 431 or 432, which depart from Gare do Oriente in Lisbon. It is about a twenty minute drive, and parking is complimentary.
Address: Avenida Euro 2004, Alcochete, Portugal
From $ 12
Fado Museum
Fado, a traditional music style popularized in the streets and taverns of Lisbon during the 1800s, is Portugal’s version of the blues. Birthed amid the underclass of the city, fado gradually gained popularity, moving out of seedy taverns and into upscale dance halls and theaters before falling out of fashion in the late 1970s.
The Fado Museum occupies a former pumping station in Lisbon’s Alfama District, the neighborhood where fado was born, and traces the history of the musical style through a collection of recordings, posters, costumes, vintage memorabilia and interactive exhibits. An onsite museum school offers courses in fado lyrics and Portuguese guitar. The museum shop sells albums by iconic fado artists — a lightweight souvenir by which to remember time spent in Lisbon.
Practical Info
The Fado Museum is closed on Mondays.
Address: Largo do Chafariz de Dentro 1, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Tues-Sun 10am-6pm
Admission: 5€
From $ 23
Fátima
Fátima is one of the most important shrines to the Virgin Mary in the world, as three shepherd children are said to have stated that Mary appeared to them. The last event, on Oct. 13, 1917, is known as the Miracle of the Sun and was attended by upwards of 40,000 people. A marble pillar with a statue of Our Lady marks the exact spot in the Chapel of Apparitions, and millions of pilgrims make the journey to see it yearly.
The Basics
Fátima is second only to Lourdes in France as Europe’s most important pilgrimage site, with a history and culture that will fascinate the religious and nonreligious alike. While some Catholics opt to visit during a pilgrimage, you can also visit the town and its religious sites—particularly the Basilica de Fátima—on a day trip from Lisbon or Porto. Choose between a half-day tour to Fátima and a full-day sightseeing tour with stops at other historic points of interest. Guided tours often include stops at other points of interest, including Óbidos, Nazaré, and Batalha. Travelers pressed for time can see the town on a half-day tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fátima is a must-visit for Catholics and history buffs.
- Day tours from Porto and Lisbon last upwards of eight hours and include hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Conservative dress is recommended, as many of Fátima’s attractions are sacred spots for devotees that sometimes ask visitors to cover their shoulders or legs.
- Mass at the basilica is held several times a day.
How to Get There
Fátima is 88 miles (142 kilometers) north of Lisbon. The easiest way to get there is on a guided tour, but it’s also possible to travel independently. Buses depart regularly from Sete Rios bus station in Lisbon or Batalha bus station in Porto. The rides take 90 or 120 minutes respectively. There is a train station servicing Fátima, but it’s located 12 miles (20 kilometers) outside of town, making it a less convenient option.
When to Get There
Fátima sees two major pilgrimages each year, in May and October. During this time, thousands of pilgrims make their way into town, and the city’s hotels and guesthouses fill up, making pre-booking a must. Every month on the 12th, there is an international rosary followed by a candlelight procession.
Points of Interest in Fátima
While the religious structures tend to be the most popular attractions at this pilgrimage site, there’s more to do in Fátima. The Fátima Wax Museum offers a history of the town through 31 scenes and more than 100 wax figures, while limestone formations of the Moeda Caves (Grutas da Moeda) are also nearby.
Address: Apartado 31, Fátima 2496-908, Portugal
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 40
Avenida da Liberdade
Avenida da Liberdade (Liberty Avenue) is a wide, central boulevard in the heart of Lisbon. Stretching for more than a half-mile (1,100 meters), its tree-lined, cobblestoned lanes connect Praça dos Restauradores with Praça do Marquês de Pomba. It is 295 feet (90 meters) wide and is said to be modeled after Paris’s Champs Elysees. Trees provide shade for pedestrian walkways, with small fountains, mosaics and statues placed throughout, while shops, restaurants, theaters and even universities make it one of the most important avenues in the city. Grand hotels, houses of fashion, banks and other high-end retailers also call the avenue home.
A few historical mansions can still be seen along the avenue, adding to the elegant architecture. There is also a Monument to the Fallen of the Great War, honoring the 50,000 Portuguese soldiers who lost their lives in World War I, located about halfway down.
Practical Info
The Avenida is located in Baixa (Old Town.) The nearest metro stop is Avenida.
Address: Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon, Portugal
From $ 17
Campo Pequeno
Campo Pequeno, Lisbon’s, neo-Moorish bullring, was built in the last years of the nineteenth century. Inspired by the Las Ventas bullring in Madrid, Camp Pequeno features a red-brick façade with onion-shaped copulas crowning its towers.
Campo Pequeno reopened as a multi-event venue in 2006, and in addition to a retractable roof, the renovations included adding a shopping mall, cinema and restaurants beneath the stadium. The building also houses a small museum dedicated to the sport of bullfighting in Portugal and the history of the Camp Pequeno Bullring.
From Easter to mid-July, the 9,000-spectator stadium still hosts bullfights, though unlike in Spain, the bulls are not killed during the fight. Throughout the remainder of the year, the venue is used for live music events, shows and the occasional circus.
Practical Info
While bulls are no longer killed during bullfighting events, they are still speared in a manner that might be too graphic for some tastes.
Address: R. Chaby Pinheiro 11, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Varies
From $ 23
Estrela Garden (Jardim Da Estrela)
One of central Lisbon’s most beautiful parks, Estrela Garden (Jardim da Estrela) is an oasis from the bustling Bairro Alto and Chiado. The park—lined with tropical trees, sculptures, and a small lake—is surrounded by history, with its old English cemetery, wrought-iron gazebo, and 18th-century Estrela Basilica (Basílica da Estrela).
The Basics
Most hop-on hop-on and tuk-tuk tours include a stop at Estrela Garden. For a closer look at Lisbon’s green spaces, book a secret gardens tour or rent an e-bike to explore the city on your own.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The garden is a must-visit for nature lovers, spontaneous travelers, and anyone looking for a serene respite from the city.
- Estrela Garden is popular among families with small children due to the animal-themed playground and duck-filled ponds.
- The pond-side café is a perfect place to enjoy a coffee, glass of wine, or quick snack.
- Most of the park is paved with gravel or soapstone and relatively flat, making it fairly accessible for wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Estrela Garden is located at Largo da Estrela, directly in front of the Estrela Basilica. Take the historic tram 25 or 28 to the Estrela stop, or city bus 709, 713, 720, 738, 773, or 774. The closest metro station, Rato, is a 15-minute walk from the garden.
When to Get There
Spring and fall are the best time to visit Estrela Garden, when the weather is not too hot and there is a nice breeze through the city. The tropical plants stay in bloom most of the year and provide a lush green space to enjoy in any season.
The Estrela Garden Statues
Several statues were installed in the park after the creation of the Portuguese Republic in 1910. Notable sculptures include the expressive farmer created by Costa Mota, a marble figure of a nude woman known as O Despertar, and—the most famous of the lot—the Guardadora de Patos, which means “keeper of the ducks.” The statues transform the area into more than just a park, but an elegant sculpture garden in which visitors can admire art and simply relax.
Address: Largo da Estrela, Lisbon, Portugal
From $ 23
Cape Espichel (Cabo Espichel)
Known for its wild, untamed landscape, Cape Espichel is a southwestern headland in the Setúbal District. The cape meets the rough waters of the Atlantic Ocean with dramatic, high-rising cliffs and a wind-blown, barren landscape. Atop the cliffs lies raw, isolated countryside, and many visitors describe the area as mysterious and spiritual.
Beyond the incredible scenery, the cape is home to ruins, fossils and other sights. At the water’s edge there’s a lighthouse, offering great views of the seascape. Also perched at the edge of a cliff is a small, simple white chapel, with the deep blue ocean as its backdrop.
There’s also the Santuário de Nossa Senhora, a baroque-style church, built in 1707. The main structure has been well maintained, with original tiles and stonework, and the surrounding area has ruins to explore. But the sights at Cape Espichel go even farther back then the 18th century—the area is also home to several sets of fossilized dinosaur footprints that are visible on the side of a cliff. The footprints are estimated to be 145 to 150 million years old.
Practical Info
The best way to visit Cape Espichel is by renting a car or taking a guided day trip. Cape Espichel is about 25 miles (40 km) from the city of Setúbal and 9 miles (14 km) from Sesimbra. Along the way, visitors will pass through small villages, rolling hills, grazing sheep, and other picturesque countryside scenes.
Address: Cabo Espichel, Portugal
From $ 28
Chiado Museum
Also known at the National Museum of Contemporary Art, the Chiado Museum is one of the best collections of contemporary Portuguese art. Located in the neighborhood that bears the same name, Chiado is the center of Lisbon’s bohemian culture. The museum has been around since 1911, but moved to its current location, a reformed monastery, in 1994. Much of the monastery’s original architecture remains but is now mixed in with modern suspended walkways and sophisticated lighting systems.
With works that span across the 19th – 21st centuries, pieces range from Romanticism, to Naturalism; from Impressionism to Neo-realism. The permanent collection is small and mostly Portuguese artists with a speckling of other European artists, including several sculptures by the famed French sculpture, Rodin. The Chiado Museum receives a number of rotating exhibits, many of which display Portuguese artists from private collections or other museums throughout the country. A highlight is the outdoor sculpture garden, with simple but carefully manicured lawns dotted with bronze sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Practical Info
The Chiado Museum is located at Rua Serpa Pinto 4, near the Baixo-Chiado metro station and is open Tuesday–Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is 4.50 € for adults, 2.25 € for seniors over 65 and students with ID, and free for children under 12. There is free admission the first Sunday of every month.
Address: Rua Serpa Pinto 4, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: 4.50 € for adults, 2.25 € for seniors over 65 and students with ID, and free for children under 12
From $ 21