The ultimate LIsbon Travel Guide
As of this moment Lisbon is officially my favorite city in Europe. If we’re being honest, I think a lot of it has to do with it’s topography, weather, and overall vibe which is very similar to Los Angeles (Ashley’s hometown!) - it feels comfortable. We’ve spent almost two months in Portugal’s capital over the last year and I will never get tired of Lisbon’s captivating blend of old-world charm and modern allure. There’s something so special about roaming the narrow cobblestone streets and neighborhoods adorned with colorful tiled building; every corner is picturesque. The city also boasts a lively food scene (especially breakfast!) and the way people of all ages gather at the local parks to picnic and relax brings a beautiful sense of community that you don’t see in the states.
This travel guide is a long one but we wanted to make sure you had everything you needed in one place: where to stay, how to get around, the EDP top 5, and a list of over 90 places to eat, drink and have fun in Lisbon!
Remember, you can always book a call with me to chat itineraries. Happy to help!
View from the secret beach in Sintra
Streets of Lisbon, Portugal
WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON
As you know, we are big fans of staying in AIRBNBS vs. hotels during our Euro trips since we usually stay longer than 3-4 days, and at that point having a kitchen becomes a necessity. I also find that most hotels are in touristy areas and you don’t get to experience the local vibe like you would when staying in a neighborhood AIRBNB. That being said, Lisbon has a TON of hotels and AIRBNBS; there’s something for everyone.
Hotels
Mama Shelter: we stayed here for a date-night and it’s exactly what you need for a few nights in Lisbon: centrally located, chic rooftop, fun vibe, and good food + bevvies. It’s in Príncipe Real which is a real hot spot for restaurants, bars, and shopping.
Outside of Mama Shelter, we haven’t stayed anywhere else, and I don’t like to recommend hotels that I haven’t fully vetted. In your research I would steer clear of hotels ON or super close to Avenida da Liberdade. Parts of Avenida da Liberdade are like Rodeo Dr. in terms of shopping but most are extremely touristy - think Times Square. If you look it up on a map you’ll see the Hard Rock Cafe and spots like that, which to me is NOT the vibe we are going for when visiting Lisbon.
Airbnbs
I would argue the best place to stay in Lisbon is the Lapa area. It’s accessible to all the hotspots but not in the thick of the crowds or rowdy areas. Also very walkable, close to a main metro stop, and the local cafes and restos are perfection.
tip: The only reason I would suggest NOT doing an AIRBNB in Lisbon is if you’re going in the summer months. Most AIRBNBS don’t have AC and it gets pretty hot and uncomfortable sleeping at night in the higher temps.
These are the two AIRBNBS we’ve stayed at in the last year:
Lapa 3 Bedroom with an office (see a tour on my IG) - the location is EVERYTHING! So close to some of the best cafes and because it's towards the bottom of the hill, there's not much “climbing” required compared to other areas. 10 minute walk from Time Out Market, 5 minutes to a big metro stop, and 12 minutes to the water.
Estrela 3 Bedroom with sweeping views (see a tour here) - also just so, so gorgeous and spacious. It’s higher up on the hill, so requires a little more trekking, but it’s a great option for larger groups.
I have my AIRBNBS wishlists (1 -3 bedrooms) up on IG for my subscribers if you’re interested. Remember, you can always book a call with me to chat itineraries. Happy to help.
Cooltra Scooters in Lisbon
Jardim de Estrela
Getting Around Lisbon
For Airport pick-ups and transfers, Welcome Pick-Ups is my go-to. They are reliable and you can schedule a car in advance. We use this service in almost every European city we travel to. The Lisbon airport is about 20 minutes from the city center without traffic.
There are many forms of public transport, ubers, TukTuks, and taxis which means there’s no reason to rent a car. Parking in Lisbon is a nightmare so I highly recommend exploring on foot (we walked 95% of the time) or utilizing one of the above methods of transportation.
If you’re comfortable scootering, check out Cooltra. It’s a scooter sharing app that we LOVED while we were in Lisbon. There’s scooters available in all of central Lisbon and it’s super easy to open the app, book a scooter, and ride your way around town. IMO much better than sitting in traffic in an Uber, plus it’s a fun experience! Make sure you download the app and enter you driver’s license details at least 24 hrs. before you plan to ride because they need to approve everything which can take some time.
Secret Beach in Sintra
Mural at LXfactory in Lisbon
WHAT TO DO IN LISBON
Walk walk walk! Just start walking and you’ll stumble on parks, cafes, and tons of beautiful things to do and see. On my OUT OF OFFICE profile I have some of my favorite things saved but below you’ll find a comprehensive list of over 90 restaurant recs and must-dos.
EDP Top 5
This 5 hour hiking and secret beach experience was one of the most memorable things we did last year. You get to see Sintra and the coast like you’ve never imagined. (See this REEL for more!)
Walk through Alfama and hit the Miradouro Santa Luzia - arguably one of the most beautiful look outs in Lisbon, this swoon worthy stop well worth the hike up through Alfama. Enjoy the live music from local artists while watching the sun go down over the water.
Book a 2hr sailing tour of Lisbon with wine + snacks - you won’t regret seeing Lisbon from the water. Get a sneak peek on this REEL.
Do an afternoon at LX Factory - well worth the short Uber ride, it’s an Abbot Kinney Blvd. esque type street nestled an industrial complex. It houses an assortment of spots to eat, shop and explore. Check their calendar for a list of events and markets to time your visit with and if you’re in Lisbon for a longer stay, plan to go a few times because there’s so much to explore.
Get in a beach day or 2! Two spots we recommend: 1. Cascais. Cascais is a 40 minute train ride from Lisbon and worth the trip. Its picturesque streets and beaches are beautiful. Go early to secure a daybed and enjoy the sun, food, and beach side cocktails. 2. Costa Da Caparica. Costa Da Caparica, located just a short distance from Lisbon (Uber is best), is a coastal gem that offers a perfect blend of sun, sea, and sand. It’s a lesser known area for tourists which makes it a great destination to experience the golden sandy beaches, vibrant beach bars, and delicious seafood restaurants. The beach club scene is also fabulous! We ended up going to Princesa for a gorgeous lunch on the water but hear high remarks about these ones as well:
I love this website for scoping out details on Lisbon beaches.
Bonus: eat at Kefi Greek Bistro - From the Greek vibes to the freshness of the food, this spot is worth hiking to no matter where you are in the city. Don’t leave without trying the entire menu the saganaki, any of the souvlakis, the greek salad and for the love of all things holy, don’t sleep on the loukoumades (fried donuts) with pistachio ice cream.
Nicolau Cascais - Breakfast
Lisbon Breakfast spot: Dear Breakfast
💕 means it’s a top top rec!
breakfast, bruncH + snacks
Amelia💕 - From the owners of Nicolau Lisbon, this brunch stop is instagram aesthetic heaven. Find all your favorites on the menu including pancakes (for the table) and acai bowls as well as savory dishes like a traditional egg and toast breakfast plate.
Audrey’s - Popular brunch spot in Alfama with indoor and outdoor seating.
A.P.F. Cafe & Restaurant - Cute restaurant with an outdoor terrace to enjoy a sunny day as well as a section for kids to play in. Good for a work from home set up while grabbing a bite to eat.
Basilio - Another adorable brunch spot with reliable wifi and delicious eats, owned by the same restaurant group that owns Amelia and Nicolau.
Break - Quaint little brunch spot tucked away in the streets of Lisbon. The menu is large, has dishes for vegans/vegetarians and the service was kind and friendly.
Brigadeirando - Anyone who has been to Europe knows that finding a good iced coffee is worth its weight in gold. This little coffee shop had one of the best we’d tried in Europe, not just Lisbon, and was made sweeter with the traditional little desserts called Brigadeiros (hence the name).
Casa São Miguel 💕 - A small and charming cafe, well known for their Pasteis de Nata and quaint decor. Stop here for a snack on your way to explore the ins and outs of Alfama.
Cafe Janis - Trendy breakfast and brunch spot right outside Time Out Market. Stop for traditional brunch dishes like pancakes and avocado toast and then wander over to Time Out Market for dessert.
Ceres Boulangerie - French bakery that serves all the classics: baguettes, croissants and pain au chocolats.
Copenhagen Coffee Lab & Bakery - Coffee shop and bakery serving small breakfast plates and strong coffee.
Cotidiano - Highly rated brunch spot with pancakes and breakfast burritos.
Dear Breakfast - Brunch spot, with multiple across the city, that has all the breakfast staples plus juices and cocktails.
Delta The Coffee House - Coffeehouse that caters to remote workers. Great interior design, not positive how the coffee tastes, but that’s half the battle when looking for a work from home spot that inspires.
Dona Estefânia - Pastry shop serving up traditional Portuguese desserts, some native to Sintra.
Fabrica de Nata - Adorable pastry shop that serves the traditional Pasteis de Nata with multiple locations around the city.
Fauna & Flora | Santos 💕 - Super central and overflowing with lush greenery, this brunch spot is a must during your stay in the city. The menu is vast and reasonably priced, making it easy to order multiple things for the table to share.
Dear Breakfast, Lisbon
Cafe Janis, Lisbon
breakfast, bruncH + snackS CONT.
Garagem Cafe - Cute cafe to stop for breakfast or lunch while in Sintra.
Heim 💕 - The iced coffee and brunch option here can’t be beat for what you get. Owned by the same group that birthed Kefi Bistro, so you know you can’t go wrong.
Hello, Kristof - Specialty coffee shop with light bites and trinkets to browse while you wait. To be completely honest, this coffee was a bit too strong for me (said no one ever) but if that’s your thing then this is your place.
La Boulangerie 💕 - The best croissant I could find in Lisbon. Typical French breakfast menu and good coffee as well.
Manteigaira - Hot spot for Pasteis de Nata, with multiple locations all over the city.
Mila 💕- The ultimate remote worker cafe with a dedicated laptop table and healthy eats. One of the only cafes to open before 9AM, they have a takeaway window that opens at 8:30AM for a croissant and coffee walk-by.
Nicolau Lisbon💕 - Nicolau was the first brunch spot to come from the restaurateurs, Grupo Nicolau. They have since perfected the instagrammable, while also appetizing, brunch and lunch menus while also offering a chic aesthetic for you to enjoy in.
Nicolau Cascais 💕- The same menu as the Lisbon location, only right by a gorgeous beach for you to unwind by afterward.
Neighbourhood Cafe Lisbon - 4 words: Aussie-owned, breakfast burrito. Sometimes it’s all you need to solve a craving.
Pasteis de Belém - Once you’re done exploring the historic area of Belém, it’s necessary to stop at the supposed site where the Pasteis de Nata was made famous.
Seagull Method Cafe - Wonderful breakfast and coffee shop by the same group who brought Kefi Bistro and Heim cafe to the city. Great coffee, fresh croissants and delicious brunch and acai bowls.
the mill - Another Aussie brunch stop that is well worth a visit. Try their toasties or the blueberry pancakes.
Quase Cafe - Brunch spot that serves up both sweet and savory breakfasts as well as juice and smoothies.
Mila Cafe in Lisbon
Kefi Bistro in Lisbon, Portugal
lunch + dinner
A Cevicheria - Adding this as an honorable mention, only because of how highly rated it comes, but Ash and I didn’t love. The seafood was very fresh, their ceviche maybe being the saving grace of the meal, but it was a bit too experimental for our taste. Case in point: the bread that came before the meal was the best part. Go only after looking at the menu and still having your curiosity to try remain in tact.
A Obra - Charming tapas style restaurant on a popular street (Green street) in Santos.
Bythewine 💕 - Gorgeous wine bar that’s great for dinner and a wine tasting.
Cervejaria Ramiro - Highly rated seafood restaurant with a specialty in beer that was established in the 1950s.
Da Noi 💕 - Bar & restaurant hidden in the back alleyways of Lapa, that can be found by following the sounds of weeknight catch ups. A very cool stop in your evening out, but we suggest making a reservation to try the drool worthy menu.
Ferroviario - Located right under the Alfama neighborhood, this stylish and roomy terrace right on the waterfront serves pub food and cocktails. Check their schedule for live music during the week and weekends.
Java Rooftop 💕 - Rooftop restaurant with a Mediterranean menu. What more do you need?
JNcQUOI Avenida - An upscale experience that serves mostly Portuguese cuisine alongside an extensive wine and cocktail list.
Kefi Greek Bistro 💕 - Ash and I won’t ever stop talking about Kefi. From the Greek vibes to the freshness of the food, this spot is worth hiking to no matter where you are in the city. Don’t leave without trying the entire menu the saganaki, any of the souvlakis, the greek salad and for the love of all things holy, don’t sleep on the loukoumades (fried donuts) with pistachio ice cream.
La Malquerida - When the craving for Mexican hits and you’re in the mood for tacos, this eatery will hit the spot.
Lisboa Tu e Eu 2 - On the farther side of this neighborhood, closer to Alfama, this restaurant is tucked away and worth the small hike up stairs to get to it. Serving up traditional portuguese dishes and loved by locals and tourists alike, you will see how well loved it is by all the love letters written on the wall over the years.
Leonetta💕- Some of the best Italian we had while we were in Lisbon. We ordered a feast because everything sounded good and we also planned to bring some home to Andy… until we found out they don’t do takeaway. So this recommendation comes with a huge warning. Buy what you can eat or pay the consequences.
Lumi Rooftop - Stylish rooftop bar serving food for most of the day. Ash and I went at night and felt it left a bit to be desired. Mostly that they’d turn down their very bright lights to enjoy more of the view the rooftop deck offered.
Lupita 💕- Popular pizzaria that got UberEats to our apartment more than once on those days where a pizza just makes sense.
Magnolia Bistrot & winebar - Adorable bistro that serves natural wines and B/L/D with indoor and outdoor seating.
Manjerica - Vegan/vegetarian daytime restaurant that prepares creative dishes and serves coffee and cocktails with natural spirits.
Meson Andaluz - Andalusian restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, best known for their paella and tapas.
Osteria - Cucina di Amici - Corner restaurant hidden within the alleyway that is good for when you have a craving for the typical Italian food meal.
SEEN by Olivier - Scenic views, highly rated (and priced) food and an overall vibe if you’re looking for a date night spot in the city.
Taberna da Rua das Flores - Highly rated tapas restaurant, specializing in fish focused eats. Usually a line around the block, get there right when they open for a quick entrance.
100 Maneiras - Cozy spot for a fine dining Portuguese tasting menu.
Girl’s Night out in Lisbon
Leonetta - amazing Italian food in Lisbon
drinks, Dessert + late night
Copa Lisboa 💕 - Funky cocktail bar that serves light bites and is known for their good atmosphere.
Foxtrot - We went here past 12AM, but we also had french fries and steak with a random assortment of people in an indoor patio that was designed to look like an outside one, and I remember it fondly. Make of that what you will, but I recommend.
Gin Lovers Bar & Restaurant 💕 - Well known for its cocktails and atmosphere, this bar is a beautiful place to dine in or just have a drink.
Insaciavel - Adorable wine bar serving up small dishes to accompany your glass or bottle of vinho.
Mama Shelter - Hotel chain found in many popular cities across Europe that has an eclectic, bohemian vibe and everything you need for a long weekend stay. The food is delicious and the rooftop bar is not to be missed, even if you’re not staying as a guest.
Mini Bar - Jose Avillez 💕 - Jose Avillez created this little corner of restaurants and bars that live on top of eachother. Mini Bar is a speakeasy at the back of it all that has delicious cocktails, unreal desserts (really, I still think about the passionfruit dessert I ordered here) and live music on select nights. Highly recommend.
Nannarella 💕 - Wildly popular dessert shop, with an emphasis on gelato.
O Boteco - Authentic Brazilian restaurant with a fun atmosphere.
Park Rooftop - Aptly named, this old parking garage turned rooftop bar is the place to go for a breathtaking view of the city. The drinks won’t wow you in any sense, but coupled with the view will be a great nightcap to a Lisbon evening.
Sky Bar Lisboa by Seen - Vibey rooftop bar, right across from the restaurant SEEN, at the top of the Tivoli hotel.
The Ivens - From the Marriott Autograph Collection, this chic and modern hotel is perfectly situated so that you’re right in the middle of everything Lisbon has to offer. Rocco, the restaurant inside the hotel, serves up impressive dishes at hotel prices but comes highly rated.
The Old Pharmacy ✨ - Small wine and tapas bar in a lively section of Lisbon that is perfect for a stop during your night out on the town.
Toca da Raposa 💕 - Such a vibey cocktail bar with fun drinks to choose from. Add it as a stop before dinner, along a cocktail bar crawl or for a nightcap at the end of your evening.
Vago 💕 - Recommended by the owners of Da Noi, this cave-like bar was the perfect second stop on our girls night out evening. The Paloma and Mezcal margarita hit the spot.
Alfama, Lisbon
Avenida Ribeira das Naus
experienceS
Avenida Ribeira das Naus 💕 - Great little walk along the water that leads you right to the center, where the famed Arco da Rua Augusta is. Walk through and you’re right in the hub of their commercial shops.
A Vida Portuguesa - A gift shop that caters to keeping the history of Portuguese arts and crafts as well as brands and artists alive. If you’re looking for a relevant gift for someone you love, this stop is a must.
Belém Tower - Landmark medieval fortified tower right on the water. If you want to enter and view the rooftop terrace, tickets are necessary but it’s just as beautiful from the outside looking in.
Borda d’Agua - Beach club and restaurant that has exactly what you need to enjoy a day at the beach. Schedule chairs for the day and walk down the beach to enjoy lunch at Princesa Beach Club.
Clube de Fado - Laid back restaurant serving typical Portuguese fare against a backdrop of traditional live Fado acts.
EmbaiXada - 19th-century plaza turned shopping mall that features local brands and designers.
Jardim Correnteza - A nice spot to stop and enjoy the weather while drinking a coffee from Cafe Garagem.
Jardim de Príncipe Real - Park with a children’s playground and corner kiosk for the best of both worlds.
Jardim Dom Luis 💕 - The park right outside Time Out Market that has a kiosk where you can order drinks and dinner. Take your kids to the kids playground, order a pre-dinner drink and enjoy a front row seat to the daily live music from the locals.
Jardim de Estrela 💕 - Our most frequented park while we were in Lisbon. Gorgeous greenery, a big playground, a kiosk for snacks and drinks and the best part: a close walk to/from Kefi Bistro.
Jerónimos Monastery - Where the tomb of Vasco de Gama lies, this attraction and the Belem Tower make up one of Portugal's World Heritage Sites. Tickets are inexpensive and worth the visit to see the architecture and history inside.
Princesa 💕 - Gorgeous beach club on the coast of Portugal, offering a large expanse of beach, fresh food and aesthetically pleasing day beds, chairs and umbrellas.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia 💕 - Arguably one of the most beautiful look outs in Lisbon, this swoon worthy stop is at the top of Alfama and well worth the hike up. Enjoy the live music from local artists while watching the sun go down over the water.
Mercado Santos - Grocery store with all the necessities located on a popular brunch street in the area.
Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) - Monument in celebration of the 15th and 16th-century Portuguese explorers and visionaries. 52 meters high and worth the visit, especially for the panoramic views of the city of Lisbon.
Sr. Vinho - Highly rated Fado restaurant.
Tasca de Chico - Fado cafe, more bar than restaurant, this spot is highly rated and is as traditional as they come.
Time Out Market - To locals, a tourist trap. To tourists, a great place to have multiple cuisines right at your fingertips. Order a drink, appetizer, dinner and dessert all in one place and enjoy. Gelato Davvero is Luna & Bita approved for dessert.
Village Underground Lisboa - Cultural arts center built from shipping containers that makes for a great spot to stop for a drink or a coffee if you’re in the area.
Jardim de Estrela Lisbon
Beach in Cascais near Lisbon
FAQS
Tips for traveling to Lisbon with a kid? My toddler guide to Lisbon is here!
Do a lot of people speak English there?
Almost everyone we encountered spoke English in Lisbon. And everyone is super friendly and welcoming!
Have you noticed prices changing? Haven't been since 2018! It was so cheap then!
Slightly more expensive than last year (2022) but still very inexpensive compared to LA or Miami. Bottles of wine for $17 and delish burgers for $9, can’t beat that in my opinion.
There you have it: the best of the best of Lisbon! Let me know if you have any Qs. I hope you love Lisbon and much as we do. Remember, you can always book a call with to chat itineraries. Happy to help! xx - Ashley + Marissa
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