Choose from 168 Fun Things to Do in Portugal
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Lisbon Cruise Port
Right along the River Tagus (Rio Tejo) in the center of Lisbon’s downtown, Lisbon Cruise Port is conveniently located for cruise-ship passengers to disembark and make the most of their shore time exploring this charming city’s many attractions.
The Basics
Lisbon has a long maritime history, with explorers Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan setting out for the New World from the city. Although the city of Lisbon is some 10 miles (16 kilometers) from the Atlantic Ocean, the wide Tagus River makes it easy for cruise ships to navigate inland and dock right in the city center, where there is space for three large cruise ships at one time.
A variety of guided tours and excursions depart from the cruise port, such as city sightseeing and food tours. You can tour by privately or part of a group, via vehicle, hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus, or on foot. Excursions to Fatima and transfers to the airport or train station are also available from the port.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The cruise terminal is open whenever there are ships in port.
- You can take a cruise to Lisbon city year-round.
- You’ll find a few shops and cafes at the cruise terminal.
- The cruise port is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get to Lisbon from the Lisbon Cruise Port
Lisbon Cruise Port has four dock locations along the Tagus. Depending on where your ship docks, it could be as much as a 90-minute walk to town. Many cruise ships offer shuttle service from the port to town and taxis are available. The Terreiro do Paço metro station is nearby and guided shore excursions leave from the port.
Port Information
Portuguese is the official language of Portugal but English is widely spoken in Lisbon. The euro is the official currency.
Address: Rua da Junqueira, 94, Lisbon, 1349-026, Portugal
From $ 10
Vasco da Gama Shopping Center
Named after Portugal’s most famous mariner, who was the first European sailor to reach India in 1499, the Vasco da Gama Shopping Center was opened in time for the 100th World Expo in 1998. Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, it has an appropriately maritime theme and occupies an unrivaled position in the visually striking Parque das Nacoes overlooking the Tejo River. The shopping experience offers 170 stores under a soaring glass roof, with a massive food hypermarket on the ground floor. The mall is known for its sprinkling of high-end shops such as Hilfiger Denim and concentration of mid-range international chains such as Pull and Bear, Mango and The Body Shop among the Portuguese boutiques.
As well as 170 stores, the four-story shopping mall offers 2,700 underground parking spaces as well as a health club; a multiplex movie theater with 10 screens; and more than 30 restaurants in a dedicated food court, ranging from fast-food outlets to ice-cream stands. A recent innovation at the mall is the new second-floor viewing terrace, which provides diners with views across the river. The spectacular Oceanário de Lisboa Aquarium is a five-minute walk away.
Practical Info
The Vasco da Gama Shopping Center is open daily from 9am–12am. To access via public transportation, take Metro Red Line or train to Oriente.
Address: Avenida Dom João II, nº 40, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Daily 9am–12am
From $ 87
Lisbon Zoo (Jardim Zoológico de Lisboa)
Jardim Zoológico, in attractive gardens, has more than 2,000 animals of 300 species. Their theme is nature, animals, and ecology. There are the usual feeding sessions and a children's farm. The gardens also provide shaded picnic areas. There's also a dolphin show and row boats.
Just outside the zoo itself is the Animax, an amusement park with restaurants and bars and shops.
Getting There
Catch the metro, blue line to Jardim Zoológico or a train to station Sete Rios. Many buses also go to stop Jardim Zoológico including numbers 16, 31, 54, 70, 701, 726, 746, 755, and 758.
Address: Praca Marechal Delgado Humberto, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Oct - Apr 10am - 6pm, May - Sept 10am - 8pm
Admission: Adults: € 16.50, Children (3-11yrs): € 12.50
From $ 17
Santa Catarina Fortress
Standing watch over Portimão at the mouth of the Arade River, the once-mighty Santa Catarina Fortress now lies in ruins, but retains much of its former grandeur, with its stone-brick curtain walls still largely intact.
Portimão’s maritime fortress was built by Alexandre Massai in the 17th-century to protect the port from pirates and invaders, but today it serves as the photogenic backdrop to the sandy Praia da Rocha beach. Explore the chapel inside, dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, or head there at sunset for a dazzling view along the coast.
Practical Info
The Santa Catarina Fortress overlooks the Praia da Rocha, around 3km south of Portimão in the Algarve.
Address: Portimão, Portugal
From $ 116
Viana do Castelo
A modern town with ancient roots, Viana do Castelo is in the very north of Portugal, crushed between the estuary of the River Lima and the wild surf of the Atlantic Sea. The Praça da República, its beautiful fountains and the Church of the Misericórdia –a three-story melange of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture – form the medieval heart of the city. Along with the 15th-century cathedral, the ancient piazzas and Manueline mansions all contrast neatly with the area’s modern-day seafront marina. But Viana is best known for its Santuario de Santa Luzia, a church perched on a hilltop overlooking the Atlantic rollers. It is accessible by funicular from the town center, which will climb the 820-foot hill.
The construction of this elaborate Neo-Byzantine church began in 1903 based on a design by Miguel Ventura Terra, who was inspired by the Sacré Coeur in Paris. The church’s ornate façades are adorned with delicate rose windows, double-domed twin spires, a rounded apse and a grand central dome. Take the elevator to the top of the dome for panoramas across Viana do Castelo to the Atlantic.
Practical Info
Viana do Castelo is a 45-minute drive north of Porto along the IV1. Tickets for the funicular up to Santa Luzia cost €2 one-way or €3 return. The ride takes less than 10 minutes, and the funicular station is on Avenida 25 de Abril. Santuario de Santa Luzia is generally open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., with hours extended until 7 p.m. during the summer. Admission free.
Address: Viana do Castelo, Portugal
From $ 87
Vasco da Gama Bridge
Crouched over the River Tagus like a stick insect, the elegant spines of the Vasco da Gama Bridge unite Lisbon’s modernistic Parque das Nações with Samouco as it curves across 17.2 km (10.7 miles) east of the city center. This road bridge was constructed to ease commuter congestion when the 25th of April Bridge (Ponte 25 de Abril) was no longer able to cope with traffic volume. Costing nearly US $1 billion, it was designed by a consortium of architects and more than 3,000 workers were involved in its construction, which took 18 months. The bridge was completed in 1998 in the nick of time for Portugal’s Expo98.
When constructed, this was Europe’s longest cable-stayed bridge, named after Portugal’s fabled explorer Vasco da Gama, who ventured across uncharted seas to discover India in 1498. Its elegant side spans soar 203 meters (666 feet) into the air and as Lisbon is located in a zone of seismic activity, the foundations of the bridge are buried more than 95 meters (312 feet) into the bedrock and is designed to withstand an earthquake more than four times more powerful than the one in 1755 that virtually destroyed the city. The bridge has six lanes of traffic and services around 50,000 vehicles daily; it was designed to be extended whenever necessary in the future.
Practical Info
Take the Metro to Oriente for great views of the bridge.
Address: Lisbon, Portugal
From $ 17
Vila Franca do Campo
Founded in the 15th century, Vila Franca do Campo rose to become the largest on the island of São Miguel. It served as the capital of the Azores in the 16th century when it was tragically hit by a major earthquake. The capital was moved after the earthquake and subsequent mudslides destroyed much of the settlement as it was then. Following its reconstruction, it became an agricultural hub, particularly for orange and pineapple plantations. Some of the most beautiful architecture on the island can be found in its modernist lighthouse and many churches and convents.
There is also a small caldera (volcanic crater) just off its shore forms a popular natural swimming pool. The isle is green and lush, the beach is lovely and clean, and the lake at its center forms a nearly perfect circle. The Islet of Vila Franca do Campo is classified as a nature reserve, which helps to maintain its raw beauty.
Practical Info
Vila Franca do Campo is located on the southern end of São Miguel Island in the Azores, Portugal. Most flights arrive in Ponta Delgada, from which it’s about a 20-minute drive to Vila Franca do Campo.
Address: Vila Franca do Campo, São Miguel, Azores, Portugal, Portugal
From $ 41
Vasco da Gama Tower
Lisbon’s tallest building soars 145 meters above the Tagus River waterfront and it’s an impressive feat of engineering, with its lattice steelwork inspired by the sail of a Portuguese caravel ship. The Tower takes its name from legendary Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, and was built for the World Expo in 1998, when it served as an observation deck.
Today, the Vasco da Gama Tower is home to the luxurious 5-star Myriad hotel and is closed to the public, but non-guests can still ride the Parque das Nacoes cable car from the tower to the nearby Oceanarium and enjoy spectacular views over the riverfront. The Tower also forms part of the modern Parque das Nações complex, which stretches along the waterfront and includes the Lisbon Oceanarium, the Pavilion of Knowledge science museum, the Atlantic Pavilion concert venue, Lisbon Casino and the huge Vasco Da Gama shopping mall, along with a strip of bars, restaurants and nightclubs.
Practical Info
The Vasco da Gama Tower is located in the Parque das Nações complex on the banks of the Tagus River and is accessible only to guests of the Myriad hotel or restaurant. The Parque das Nacoes cable car runs from Vasco da Gama Tower to the Oceanarium and costs €3.95 for a single ticket or €5.90 for a return. The cable car is open daily from 10:30am to 8pm in summer and 11am to 6pm in winter.
Address: Parque das Nacoes, Cais das Naus, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Cable car open daily, summer 10:30am-8pm, winter 11am-6pm
Admission: Cable car: €3.95 single, €5.90 return
From $ 41
Sagres
Twenty-one miles west of Lagos, the whitewashed village of Sagres is popular with families looking for a laidback holiday spot near the Algarve’s famous beaches. Backpackers, surfers, and divers also come to Sagres to holiday. Most of the action takes place around the town square, where there are plenty of lively restaurants and cafes. And on August 15 of every year, a big party is held to celebrate the local saint’s day with fireworks.
Sagres is on a headland overlooking the southwesternmost harbor in Europe, and from the village you can see the boat builders and lobster fishermen dragging their haul in each day. This area is also marked by two geomorphological structures: Cape St. Vincent and Sagres Point. Cape St. Vincent (São Vicente Cape) was once known as the “End of the World,” because, being at the extreme west of continental Europe, no one knew what lay beyond the horizon. Historically connected to the Portuguese Age of Discovery, in the 15th century Henry the Navigator established a school of navigation here where some of the world’s most important explorers, including Magellan and Diaz, apprenticed. One of the best views of Cape St. Vincent and Sagres point is from Torre de Aspa—a viewpoint on the western side of Vila do Bispo.
Practical Info
A taxi to Sagres from Lagos will cost around 19 EUR and take half an hour one-way, or you can take the AlgarveBus which runs every 3 hours and which costs 4 EUR each way.
Address: Sagres, Portugal
From $ 23
Valley of the Nuns (Curral das Freiras)
When seen from the bird's eye view of the Eira do Serrado, the Curral das Freiras (Valley of the Nuns) seems like an impossible place to settle – surrounded by steep mountains and accessible by vertiginous roads. But its hidden location is exactly the reason why it was discovered and embraced by generations of settlers, from the 15th-century slaves who escaped their masters to the 16th-century nuns who fled from pirates in Funchal.
The Valley of the Nuns, as it is called today (Curral das Freiras translates loosely to Nuns' Refuge), is a step back in time for those who visit. Here one can find all things chestnut, which grows in abundance; terraced vineyards and cherry orchards on the lower slopes above the valley; and colorful houses that dot the landscape.
Practical Info
Curral das Freiras (Valley of the Nuns) is reachable by the line 81 bus from Funchal along the ER107. From the north, there is a tunnel that cuts through the mountains, ver the vertiginous among us.
Address: 9030, Portugal
From $ 17
Palmela Castle (Castelo de Palmela)
Sitting atop Portugal’s Serra da Arrábida with views over the Tagus and Sado estuaries, Palmela Castle (Castelo de Palmela) has been a strategic vantage point and military stronghold since the Moors occupied the land. The structure was converted into a monastery in 1423, which was crucial in preserving the structure that we see today.
The Basics
Palmela Castle, recognized as a national monument, features four towers, the Igreja de Santiago, a museum, and the castle itself. Enjoy panoramic views of the Arrábida hills from the castle or from the old convent wing, which has been transformed into a 4-star hotel. Tours to Palmela Castle generally explore the Setubal area including Arrábida National Park and Azeitão. Many wine tours also venture here, as it is in the heart of one of Portugal’s richest wine regions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Palmela Castle is a must-visit for fans of Portuguese history.
- There is no admission fee to explore the castle, as it is now part of the hotel complex, though a small entrance fee is required to visit the Igreja de Santiago.
- While the parking area and surrounding grounds are flat, the castle is not accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Palmela Castle is located 26 miles (42 kilometers) south of Lisbon’s city center and 5.5 miles (9 kilometers) north of Setubal. As there is no public transport, the best way to reach the castle is with a prebooked tour or by car. If driving, follow the narrow roads leading up from the town of Palmela.
When to Get There
Palmela Castle is most enjoyable on a clear day with little to no wind, due to its higher altitude and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors generally spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the castle and generally combine it with a trip to the quaint town of Palmela below.
The Setubal Wine Region
Palmela Castle is located in the heart of the abundant Setubal wine region, famous for its periquita grape variety. Sweet Moscatel de Setubal wines come from this region and are grown on the slopes of the Serra da Arrabida. There are two DOCs from this region: Setubal, which is sweet and fortified; and Palmela, which is mainly red and complex.
Address: Castelo de Palmela, Palmela 2950-317, Portugal
From $ 67
Vilamoura
Just 29 km (18 miles) north-west of Faro airport, Vilamoura sits on the Algarve’s Atlantic shoreline and is the region’s classiest purpose-built leisure resort. The town and its four international-level golf courses are a destination for golfers and sailors and the location of world-class sporting events throughout the year. The hub of Vilamoura activity lies around the marina and its palm-lined esplanade, which brims over with bars, restaurants and late-night clubs as well as high-end fashion stores and classy hotels.
Despite its reputation as a party town, Vilamoura caters extensively for families. Of its two golden-sand beaches, Praia da Rocha Baixinha is a designated family-friendly beach, with lifeguards constantly on duty. Both have water sports facilities, while boat tours leave the marina daily on dolphin- and whale-spotting expeditions. Zoomarine Algarve is close by at Guia and Krazy World Zoo is inland just north of Algoz. Other local distractions from sunbathing on the beach include the Roman ruins nearby at Cerro da Vila, the monthly Sunday flea market at Loulé and the charms of Faro as well as the beaches and daily fish market at Quarteira.
Practical Info
The local tourist office is at Avenida 5 de Outubro 18, Faro. Taxis and buses run from Faro airport to Vilamoura; local buses run on the hour between 8am and 7pm to neighboring Quarteira.
Address: Vilamoura, Portugal
From $ 41
Rua Santa Catarina
The buzzing heart of Porto, running from Praça do Marquês de Pombal in the north to Praça da Batalha in the south, Rua Santa Catarina is Porto’s principal shopping street. The pedestrianized thoroughfare stretches for some 1.5km and is lined with beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, plus a huge selection of shops, restaurants, patisseries and cafés. This is the spot to find big name brands like Nike, Bellissima and Prof, while the Via Catarina shopping mall offers international stores like H&M and Zara, as well as a sizable food court.
Rua Santa Catarina is also home to the magnificent Capela das Almas, a striking blue chapel decorated with ornate azulejo tilework; the famous Café Majestic, renowned for its opulent Belle-Epoque style décor; and the lively Mercado de Bolao, Porto’s largest open-air market, where stalls are laden with fresh produce, fragrant spices and exquisite handicrafts.
Practical Info
Rua Santa Catarina runs from Praça do Marquês de Pombal to Praça da Batalha in central Porto.
Address: Rua Santa Catarina, Porto 4000-447, Portugal
From $ 64
Liberdade Square
Lying at the southern end of Porto’s majestic Avenida dos Aliados, Liberdade Square (Praça da Liberdade) started its life in the late 18th century when the city began to expand beyond its medieval walls, which are now long gone. The geographical and social importance of the square grew in the early 19th century with the building of both the main railway station and the Ponte Dom Luís I across the Douro River.
The equestrian statue of King Pedro IV by French sculptor Anatole Calmels was placed in the center of Liberdade Square in 1866 and stands in direct eye-line of City Hall’s bell tower as the Avenida dos Aliados sweeps upwards. The wide promenade in the center of the avenue is a popular gathering place for evening strolls and was designed by Alvaro Siza Vieira, who also built the innovative Serralves Museum. The south side of Liberdade Square is punctuated by the gigantic façade of the Palácio das Cardosa, formerly a nunnery but now a luxury hotel.
Practical Info
Take the metro to Aliados or Trindade to reach Liberdade Square.
Address: Liberdade Square, Porto, Portugal
From $ 21
Tagus River
Climb to the top of any of Lisbon’s seven hills and you’ll be rewarded with the sight of the Tagus River glistening in the distance. It is the longest river on the Iberian Peninsula, flowing 626 miles (1,007 km) from the Sierra de Albarracín in eastern Spain to empty itself into the Atlantic at Lisbon, and has been the focus of the city since ancient times. The Tagus has shaped Lisbon’s maritime glories in the past, and it continues to shape its future as well.
Great 15th-century adventurers Henry the Navigator and Vasco da Gama sailed the Tagus as they left on explorations across unknown seas, and the Monument to the Discoveries in waterfront Belèm honors their seafaring successes. Lisbon’s favorite landmark, the Belèm Tower, and its neighboring ornate Jerónimos Monastery stand on the banks of the Tagus, built with money raised from Portugal’s colonies. Today, equally beautiful contemporary architecture has become part of the Tagus story; it is crossed by the elegant spines of both the Vasco da Gama Bridge and the 25th of April Bridge and bordered by the innovative architecture of the Parque das Nacoes, with its gleaming high-rises, Oceanarium and marina.
The Tagus is still a revenue earner for Lisbon; it is the busiest port in Europe, with three terminals handling cruise liners and several marinas for smaller crafts. Indeed, the best way to appreciate the beauty of the river and the city it feeds is to take a boat trip along the waterway. There are several hop-on, hop-off services that allow sightseers to develop their own itinerary, and other options include two-hour cruises to get up close with the suspension bridges or romantic evening sails as the sun slips down in the sky.
Practical Info
Boat trips down the Tagus River are seasonal and subject to both weather conditions and tides. Sailing tours leave from below the 25th of April Bridge. Hop-on, hop-off services leave from several points along the waterfront, including Doca de Santa Amaro, Doca do Bom Sucesso at Belèm, Cristo Rei in Almada and Praça do Comércio in Alfama.
Address: Lisbon, Portugal
From $ 18
Rossio Square
Also known as Praça Dom Pedro IV, Rossio Square sits at the heart of Lisbon and has been a popular meeting spot since the Middle Ages. The square bustles with life as cars, buses, and pedestrians speed around it, intermixed with those leisurely sitting on benches or in cafes. Cobblestone walkways are arranged in wave patterns, a style that has since spread throughout Portugal and parts of Brazil.
It is surrounded by two identical Baroque fountains, with a column monument of Pedro IV, king of Portugal and the first emperor of Brazil, standing tall in the center. Allegorical figures of Justice, Wisdom, Restraint and Courage can be found at the monument’s base. Both the fountains and the monument are spectacularly lit up by night. The Dona Maria II National Theater sits at the northern end of the square with Ionic columns of the Church of St. Francis, which was destroyed in the earthquake of 1755.
The square is lined with traditional cafes, restaurants, and shops — many with outdoor seating. It is a great place to sit down and simply watch the city pass by. Café Nicola and Café Suiça are two particularly classic cafes to enjoy, dating back to the 18th century.
Practical Info
Rossio Square sits at the center of Lisbon, in the Baixa area. The Metro station there is also called Rossio Square.
Address: Portugal
From $ 21
University of Coimbra (Universidade de Coimbra)
Portugal’s most famous and prestigious university, the University of Coimbra is one of Europe’s oldest colleges and has become a popular tourist attraction in its own right. First established in Lisbon in 1290, the university moved to its current location in 1537 and today stands proudly at the highest point of the town.
Touring the vast hilltop campus unveils an array of historic architecture, most notably the imposing 18th-century University Tower, an important landmark of the Old Town, and the renowned 18th-century Biblioteca Joanina (João V Library), an elaborately decorated National Monument. Around 300,000 ancient books grace the shelves of the famed library and the richly decorated interiors are a show-stopping display of Portuguese art and architectural design, featuring two-tiers of exotic wood shelves, gilded pillars and intricate ceiling paintings by Lisbon artists Simões Ribeiro and Vicente Nunes.
Visitors can also tour the ornate baroque Capela de São Miguel, the Sala dos Capelos (Graduates’ Hall) and the 16th-century University Church, home to a museum of sacred art. The university also runs the 18th-century Botanical Gardens, the largest in Portugal stretching over 13 hectares of the idyllic Ursulinas Valley and featuring over 1,200 exotic plant and flower varieties.
Touring the vast hilltop campus unveils an array of historic architecture, most notably the imposing 18th-century University Tower, an important landmark of the Old Town, and the renowned 18th-century Biblioteca Joanina (João V Library), an elaborately decorated National Monument. Around 300,000 ancient books grace the shelves of the famed library and the richly decorated interiors are a show-stopping display of Portuguese art and architectural design, featuring two-tiers of exotic wood shelves, gilded pillars and intricate ceiling paintings by Lisbon artists Simões Ribeiro and Vicente Nunes.
Visitors can also tour the ornate baroque Capela de São Miguel, the Sala dos Capelos (Graduates’ Hall) and the 16th-century University Church, home to a museum of sacred art. The university also runs the 18th-century Botanical Gardens, the largest in Portugal stretching over 13 hectares of the idyllic Ursulinas Valley and featuring over 1,200 exotic plant and flower varieties.
Address: Largo Paço do Conde, Coimbra, Portugal
From $ 70
Museum of Amalia Rodrigues (Fundacao Amalia Rodrigues Casa Museu)
The Museum of Amalia Rodrigues is dedicated to the great Queen of fado, Portugal’s most famous musical genre. Her three-story former home now features more than 30,000 of Rodrigues’ personal items on display for fans to discover. Visitors can see her glamorous outfits, portraits, awards, jewelry, and recordings on display.
The Basics
After popularizing the fado genre on an international scale, Amalia Rodrigues became known as the “Voice of Portugal.” The museum is a testament to her career and gives visitors a better idea of the independent and unique woman that she was. Most hop-on hop-off tours make a stop near the museum, which is located just behind the grand Sao Bento Palace, which can also be combined with a river cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Museum of Amalia Rodrigues is a must-visit for music lovers and fans of the great singer.
- Visitors can refuel at the museum’s cafe, TOO Natural Healthy Food, located on the ground floor.
- 30-minute guided tours of the museum are available in Portuguese and English.
- Photos inside the building are prohibited.
How to Get There
The museum is located in the Sao Bento neighborhood. The closest metro station is Rato, on the yellow line, which is a 10-minute walk from the museum. Visitors can also take city buses 706 and 727 to the Rua de Sao Bento stop, right in front of the museum.
When to Get There
Visitors generally spend about an hour and a half admiring the home of Amalia Rodrigues. The best time to visit Lisbon is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. A visit to the Museum of Amalia Rodrigues can be combined with the nearby Basilica da Estrela and the Sao Bento Palace, now home to the Portuguese Parliament.
The Legacy of Amalia
Amalia Rodrigues is considered one of the greatest singers of the 20th century and made over 170 albums in her lifetime. Her contributions to preserving the Portuguese genre of fado granted her a burial spot in Lisbon’s National Pantheon alongside Portuguese presidents and other cultural icons. Fans and fado enthusiasts continue to flock to Amalia’s home to pay tribute since her death in 1999.
Address: Rua São Bento 193, Lisbon 1250-219, Portugal
Admission: Varies
From $ 17
Lisbon Cathedral (S e de Lisboa)
Lisbon Cathedral dates back to 1150 when it was built to celebrate the defeat of the Moors. Although the Romanesque building suffered earthquake damage over the years, it’s been carefully restored. Visitors can see excavated Roman ruins, the font where St. Anthony of Padua was christened, and relics of Lisbon’s patron saint, St. Vincent.
The Basics
As one of Lisbon’s major landmarks, Sé Cathedral is included in most city sightseeing tours, along with other notable attractions like the Castle of São Jorge, St. Anthony of Padua Church, the Alfama district, and the Tower of Belem. While the cathedral itself is free, the cloister charges a small entrance fee.
Things to Know Before You Go
- See the cathedral as part of a small-group or private city tour.
- The cathedral is free to enter, but it’s worth paying the small fee to tour the Gothic cloister.
- Remember to dress respectfully, as this remains a functioning religious site.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach the cathedral, located in Baixa. Ride the metro to Rossio station, just a short walk away, or hop aboard Lisbon’s quaint yellow tram—Route 28 passes right in front of the cathedral.
When to Get There
The Lisbon Cathedral is open daily to visitors, and there isn’t really a bad time to visit. If you want to see the cathedral in action, plan to attend an evening mass (in Portuguese).
Other Attractions in Baixa
The cathedral sits in the heart of the Baixa, Lisbon’s bustling downtown and a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status. While in the neighborhood, take a stroll along the grand Rua da Augusta, ride the wrought iron Elevador Santa Justa lift, climb the Arco da Rua Augusta for panoramic views, and sip some ginja (a sweet cherry-like liqueur).
Address: Largo de Se, Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: Open Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm (until 5pm on weekends)
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Mt Fóia
Looming 902 meters over the colorful spa town of Caldas de Monchique below, Mt Fóia is the Algarve’s highest peak and makes a scenic day trip from nearby Portimão. It’s the spellbinding views that make Fóia so popular, spanning the rugged Serra de Monchique mountain range, the Alvor River, Portimão, and on clear days, the ocean-lapped cliffs along the Atlantic coast.
Hiking to the summit is a worthwhile challenge for adventurous travelers, but the mountaintop can also be reached by car, where there are two main viewpoints and a cluster of restaurants offering equally impressive views.
Practical Info
Mt Fóia is located in the Serra de Monchique Mountain range, approximately 40km north of Portimão in the Algarve.
Address: Monchique, Portugal
From $ 23