Is Lisbon Worth Visiting? 35 Reasons Why You Should Visit
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If you’re asking yourself, “is Lisbon worth visiting?”, then you’re in the right place. As a non-biased frequent traveler who’s lived in seven countries around the globe, I’ll give you 35 reasons why it is…and five reasons why it isn’t.
Lisbon is a vibrant city on the Portuguese coast that’s full of culture and teeming with history. From fresh and delicious seafood to colorful mosaic tiles on every building, it’s no wonder why people flock to these cobblestone streets! With a unique blend of modern sophistication and centuries-old tradition, this city is sure to captivate everyone who’s lucky enough to visit. So, is Lisbon worth visiting?
In addition to being one of the best European cities to visit, I actually lived in Lisbon for a time. I moved there in early August of 2023 and spent two glorious months exploring the winding alleys, sipping wine at incredible viewpoints, and— let’s be honest—becoming a regular at the best bars in Bairro Alto.
Spoiler alert: Lisbon IS worth visiting. And here’s why—
Is Lisbon Worth Visiting?
Yes, Lisbon is worth visiting.
First of all, Lisbon is incredibly beautiful. From stunning architecture to picturesque miradouros (or viewpoints), there’s something for everyone to appreciate.
Its rich history and culture also makes it a great destination for tourists looking for an immersive experience. You’ll never forget wandering through downtown’s winding alleyways or exploring the impressive churches, monasteries, or various UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Not yet convinced? Keep reading for 35 reasons why Lisbon is worth visiting regardless of your budget, age, or experience level.
35 Reasons Why Lisbon is Worth Visiting
Lisbon is jam-packed with everything you could ever look for in a vacation destination—food, fun, drinks, views, vibes—it would be easier to list the reasons why you SHOULDN’T visit. Luckily, I’m itching to share my best-kept travel tips and rave all about this stunning coastal treasure. As promised, below are my top 35 reasons why you should visit Lisbon.
1. Lisbon Has Amazing Views
When it comes to Lisbon, the more of it you see, the better; which is why its sloping topography serves us tourists so well. The city was built on seven hills, allowing for plenty of stunning “miradouros” or viewpoints.
Stroll the walls of Castelo de São Jorge, chill on the hilltop terrace of Miradouro das Portos do Sol, or catch a lift up Elevador de Santa Justa—but whatever you do, don’t miss the breathtaking panoramic views from the famous Miradouro de Santa Luzia in Alfama. Grab a bottle of vinho verde and some snacks and take a minute to appreciate the city’s unique Manueline-inspired architecture with vibrant orange rooftops, iconic ceramic tiles, and winding alleyways. Maybe even snap an Insta pic (or two)!
2. Lisbon Has Beautiful Beaches
Let’s be honest, a perfect vacay spot isn’t complete without a beautiful beach or two. Nothing beats soaking up rays, burying your toes in the sand, and devouring a beach read with a frosty beer in hand. If you agree, pack your sunscreen because it’s about to get beachy in Lisbon.
From family-friendly swimming sites to rugged surf spots, Lisbon’s beaches come in plenty of varieties. Cool off in the (let’s be honest) frigid waters or casually lounge on the beach—whatever your beach vibe, this Portuguese capital has the spot to accommodate it.
**For a head start on your itinerary planning, some tried-and-true favorites include Adraga Beach, Fonte da Telha, Alburrica Beach, and Foz do Lizandro. If you have 5 days or more in Lisbon, I highly recommend adding a beach day to your itinerary.
3. Lisbon Has Great Nightlife
If you’re wondering is Lisbon worth visiting?, the nightlife alone should convince you that the answer is a resounding yes.
If you’re like me, vacationing means staying out late and grabbing plenty of *ahem* adult beverages along the way. However, nothing kills your buzz faster than being forced to blow your budget on overpriced and underpoured cocktails in some swanky bar. If cheap booze and chaotic pub crawling are your style, then you might as well hop on a plane to Lisbon right now.
Having only lived in Lisbon for two months, I spent way too many nights on the Yes! Lisbon Hostel pub crawl than I’d like to admit. Starting in Cais do Sodre, this pub crawl only costs €15 for a free welcome drink and a night of guided partying on the iconic Pink Street. However, if you have yet to experience the Bairro Alto party scene during your time in Portugal, then I would highly recommend this Viator pub crawl that takes you through the heart of Bairro.
If you want to experience the city’s nightlife in a less chaotic and more cultural setting, snag a spot at one of the city’s nightly Fado shows. I’m partial to the Fado show at Tasca do Chico in Bairro Alto, but there are literally hundreds to choose from. Fado is a genre of music that can be traced back to the early 1800’s in Lisbon. The songs are usually mournful and tell tales from the sea or the life of the poor.
4. It’s easy to Get Around in Lisbon
If you’re reading this from the U.S., then you know all too well how difficult it can be to navigate large cities on a budget with our shitty public transportation systems. Sure—you can Uber, but suddenly your $100 daily budget is up to $200. All of my favorite travel spots have something in common: outstanding walkability and fantastic public transportation. Lisbon has both.
If you’re worried about navigating the hilly terrain and centuries-old cobblestones, or just need a minute to catch your breath, the city’s many funiculars and elevators have been helping tourists combat inclines for years. For longer distances, check out the city’s budget-friendly and comprehensive systems of trains, buses, metros, and iconic yellow trams (the 28 tram is the famous one).
For those too lazy to walk or figure out public transportation (I’m right there with ya), Lisbon’s Ubers are almost unbelievably cheap. Booking a 15-20 minute drive costs around €4, and an Uber from the airport to the city center is anywhere from €7-15. Before your trip, be sure to download Bolt—one of the best apps for Portuguese travel. This is a European version of Uber that comes with even cheaper fares!
5. Lisbon is Easily Walkable
If you’re ready to get roaming, two feet is all you need in Lisbon. As long as you pack some comfortable shoes, walking around town is almost a breeze…as long as you don’t mind plenty of steep inclines. Thankfully, the city has hidden elevators, escalators, and funiculars to help visitors combat the hilly terrain.
In addition to comfortable walking shoes, make sure to bring your camera and plenty of water. You’re not going to want to miss documenting the beauty of Lisbon…but it’s easy to get dehydrated in Portugal’s steamy Mediterranean climate.
6. Lisbon is Affordable (Mostly)
Lisbon has always been pretty affordable compared to many other European capital cities. However, its rising popularity sadly equals rising prices, but even so—it remains a very cost-effective destination. Believe me, I know how it feels to travel on a budget, and you can stick to yours in Lisbon with very minimal effort.
There are plenty of cheap eats in Lisbon that are traditional, delicious, and very filling. Head to A Merendiera for O Caldo Verde and what I like to call a “Portuguese calzone” + a drink for only €5.50, or get ready for the best bifana in town at Solar da Madalena for only €3.50. Ubers and Bolts around town average around €4/ride, there are plenty of affordable souvenir shops, and groceries are some of the most reasonable in Europe.
The only thing that’s 100% NOT affordable in Lisbon is real estate…finding an apartment in my price range was a nightmare, and hotels and vacation rentals are no longer budget-friendly in 2024.
For my readers with ‘deeper pockets’—don’t worry. Even though Lisbon can be budget-friendly, there are more than enough places to splurge. Upscale dining (like Taberna da Rua das Flores and A Casa do Bacalhau), luxurious private boat tours, and fine wine tastings are abundant in the city and will leave you feeling like royalty.
7. Lisbon is Full of Beautiful Architecture
For my history buffs, Lisbon’s stunning architecture was inspired by a blend of Manueline, Baroque, Romanesque, and Modern Styles. However, you certainly don’t need to be an architect to appreciate Lisbon’s breathtaking street views.
Gazing out from one of Lisbon’s many miradouros, you’ll be rewarded with buildings of all different colors: blues, greens, oranges, yellows, and bright whites all harmonized by red terracotta roofs and the sparkling blue Tagus River backdrop.
8. There are Colorful Tiles all Over Lisbon
When you think of Lisbon, do you think of colorful tiles?
One of the first things I noticed about Lisbon was the azulejos—colorful and intricate tiles covering buildings all over the city. Greens and blues are the most common, but Portuguese azulejos come in all colors, styles, and designs. When visiting Porto, we even noticed ones in different textures!
These colorful tiles aren’t just for photo ops, you can actually take home some of your own. Souvenir tiles are massively popular among visitors to Portugal, and you’ll find pottery shops selling them all around the city.
9. There are Tons of Historical Monuments in Lisbon
Like many of the world’s greatest destinations, Lisbon is brimming with beautiful, historical, and centuries-old monuments. Towers, statues, castles, churches, and plazas, you name it and they’ve got it in Lisbon. In this city, you’ll bear witness to some of the greatest structures that Portugal has to offer. Doesn’t that alone make Lisbon worth visiting?
To make it simple, here’s my quick list of monuments you simply cannot miss seeing in Lisbon: Padrão dos Descobrimentos, Belem Tower, São Jorge Castle, Praça do Comércio, Lisbon (Sé) Cathedral, National Pantheon, and Convento do Carmo—just to name a few!
10. Lisbon has a Rich and Interesting History
Lisbon is not only the second oldest European capital (right after Athens), but it’s also one of the oldest cities in the world, making it a treasure trove of rich and fascinating history. Both great and terrible rulers, destruction, innovation, and invasions—this city has plenty of epic tales. Lisbon’s natural harbor has helped made it a place of relevance throughout history.
Take some free walking tours, visit the city’s best museums, or simply wander your way through Lisbon’s history during your visit. If history isn’t your thing—don’t sweat it. There’s no shame in appreciating the artifacts, monuments, and landmarks…and then heading to the nearest bar to appreciate something else—like vinho verde.
11. Lisbon’s Cuisine is Delicious, Affordable, and Healthy
With such easy access to the Atlantic, Lisbon’s fishermen haul in fresh, delicious, and affordable seafood on the daily. If you’re like me, and just the sight of a ‘catch of the day’ menu gets your tastebuds tingling, then you definitely came to the right city.
Because if you’re asking yourself is Lisbon worth visiting?, then you clearly don’t know much about Portuguese cuisine.
My personal favorite dish in Lisbon is called Polvo a Lagareiro—octopus in olive oil. This fact is non disputable: the Portuguese know how to cook their octopus. I’ve been all over the world, and I’ve never had octopus even close to as good as the octopus served in Lisbon. Head to Santo Andre in Alfama for one of the best seafood dishes of your life!
Now that I got my octopus fan-girling out of my system, I’ll give you a quick low-down on some of Lisbon’s other specialties. There’s the famous grilled sardines, every cod dish under the sun, pork sandwiches, tons of soft cheeses, green wine, port, and everyone’s favorite—the pasteis de nata.
12. Lisbon Has Amazing Weather
As mentioned, Lisbon’s climate is nothing to complain about. Lisbon enjoys warm, sunny springs and falls, although you will see some rain if you’re visiting in the winter months. The mild Mediterranean weather this time of year will allow you to stay comfortable while sightseeing to your heart’s content.
If you’re visiting during the summer, get ready to sweat. Mediterranean summers aren’t for the faint of heart, especially when you’re hiking up and down hills.
Pro tip: If ‘eternal spring’ is more your vibes, then head to Madeira during the summer months.
13. There are tons of Unique Neighborhoods to Explore in Lisbon
Lisbon is divided into several unique districts, each with some interesting things to offer, so you’ll definitely want to take a look around. The historic neighborhoods are Baixa, Chaido, Bairro Alto, Alfama and Belém. To see the more modern side of the city, explore around Marquess of Pombal Square and Park of the Nations (Parque das Nações).
Baxia is a central and energetic hotspot: splurge on a shopping spree, sip a bica at a quaint cafe, or strike up a conversation with an intriguing stranger at a nearby pub. Peruse the medieval district of Alfama, arguably the most picturesque area (where I used to live!), nestled on a steep hill. Wherever you go, you’re guaranteed to find plenty to do in stunning Lisboa.
14. Lisbon is Well-Connected to the Rest of Portugal
By rail or road, Lisbon provides easy access to all of Portugal. Grab an affordable train ticket or hop on a bus to be whisked away to Porto, Coimbra, Sintra, Lagos, or wherever your heart desires. As a bonus, the city has a stunning historical train station—pictured below.
15. There’s a Wide Variety of Exciting Tours in Lisbon
If you’re asking yourself is Lisbon worth visiting?, then you’d be remiss not to factor in the wide variety of cultural tours available for tourists around the city. Hop on an exhilarating Tuk Tuk tour with a local guide, get to know the city on a free walking tour with Sandemans New Europe, or unlock your bougie side on a private sailboat sunset tour.
On our last day there, my friend and I booked a 2-hour sunset boat tour—expecting it to look like the tour my friends took (below). Unfortunately, that happened to be the only horrendously foggy day I ever experienced in Lisbon…but at least the wine was good!
I was also dying to go on a food tour of Lisbon, but unfortunately we ran out of time and money. I would highly recommend factoring this into your itinerary if you have the time.
16. Lisbon is Safe for Solo Female Travelers
As a solo traveler, the number one question I get regarding each destination is “is it safe?” When I lived in Honduras, I was constantly getting asked if Roatan was safe. Spoiler alert: Roatan is safe, and Lisbon is too.
The most common incident that tourists come across in Lisbon is pickpocketing, and even that pales in comparison with the rest of Europe (especially neighboring Spain). Of course, like anywhere else in the world, it’s best to remain aware and make safe decisions—especially when traveling alone. The good news is that Lisbon is just as safe as anywhere else.
Solo traveling is a wonderful, freeing experience that I recommend everyone (both guys and gals) try out at least once. There’s no compromising, no bickering, just a journey of self-reflection and global exploration. Who knows, you might even meet lifelong friends, or at least some interesting characters, along the way!
17. People in Lisbon are Generally Very Friendly
No corner of the Earth is completely safe from annoying or impolite people, but some places will have more or less than others. When it comes to Lisbon, I gotta hand it to ’em—the vibe there is just lovely. During my trip, most people I came across, locals and visitors alike, were friendly, outgoing, and willing to lend a hand.
18. Lisbon is a Great Spot for Digital Nomads
Lisbon is quickly becoming one of the top European destinations for digital nomads. With Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa (the D8 Visa), foreign remote workers can easily obtain year-round residency in whichever Portuguese city they choose. If you’re like me—craving that carefree wanderlust lifestyle while still hustling to keep some cash in your pocket and wine on the table—the digital nomad lifestyle in Lisbon might be the life for you.
Some Ethical Food for Thought…
During my time in Lisbon, I spent some time reflecting on the effect that expats have had on the city. Unfortunately, my conclusion was not a positive one. Due to the affordability of Lisbon over its other European counterparts, digital nomads, expats, and foreign workers have flocked there in record numbers over the last decade. The effect is that the city is quickly becoming too expensive for locals to afford to live there (since the rising price of living has in no way affected the minimum wage in Portugal) and the cultural roots of the city are getting pushed further and further out to make way for Airbnbs, tourist traps, overpriced and inauthentic restaurants, and souvenir shops.
Long story short—you could move to Lisbon as a digital nomad. But should you? This was a large part of the reason I decided not to settle there long-term and only stick around for two months.
19. Lisbon Has Tons of Opportunities for Outdoor Activities
If tile-ridden, colorful, and historic cityscapes aren’t quite enough for you, Mother Nature’s gifts can be enjoyed all around Lisbon! Escape the hustle and bustle, especially during high season, in favor of a rejuvenating nature excursion like sea kayaking, sea cave exploration, snorkeling, surfing, scuba diving, and even cliff diving.
Is the sea not for you? No worries! Hike, rock climb, picnic, or simply stroll around one of the beautiful parks. Get out and see what the natural terrain around the city has to offer—I promise you won’t be disappointed.
👉🏼 Click here to book an all-inclusive sea kayaking, cliff jumping, sea caves, and snorkeling excursion from Lisbon! Or keep it simple with a kayak tour of Lisbon 🛶
20. There are Tons of Great Day Trips to Take from Lisbon
If you ask me, a day trip to Sintra is an absolute must when it comes to day trips from Lisbon. Located only 45 minutes outside of the city, you could book a round-trip train ticket for only €4.60 or join a group tour that provides transportation. Trust me—The Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira will absolutely blow your mind. Just steer clear of Sintra in the on-season, or else you’ll probably regret stepping foot in Portugal altogether.
In Belem (only 10k from Lisbon) you can visit Jeronimos Monastery, the Torre de Belem, and Monument to the Discoveries. Cascais, a quaint little coastal town, is another great option. Here, you can walk the beach, grab an ice cream, and see the nearby Boca de Inferno Cliffs. My point is, if you’re wondering is Lisbon worth visiting?—it is, and so are the surrounding towns!
👉🏼 Click here to book your group tour to Sintra from Lisbon!
21. Lisbon is an Exciting Mix of Old and New
Not unlike many of Europe’s best travel destinations, this historic city has been well-maintained over the years and seamlessly blended with modern architecture. Cobblestoned roads, ancient ruins, gothic cathedrals, and a classic Portuguese cityscape, are now dotted with modern luxuries. On your visit to Lisbon, you’ll find comfortable modern hotels, trendy bars and restaurants, boutiques, and high-end clothing stores alongside the centuries of Portuguese history. It’s truly the best of both worlds!
22. Lisbon is Full of Tuk Tuks
Don’t be scared off by the three-wheel design, these open-aired tourist “wagons” are perfectly safe…provided your driver knows what he or she is doing 😂. Tuk tuks are the perfect design for sightseeing and they can get you where you want to go in style—especially if you’re riding in one of the “party tuk tuks” we used to flag down in Phuket.
In Lisbon, I would never recommend using a tuk tuk for general transportation services (unless you’re in Sintra) because you’ll get up-charged up the a**. Instead, grab a friend or two and book an exciting, and likely breezy, tuk tuk tour of Lisbon!
👉🏼 Click here to book your Lisbon Tuk Tuk Tour in advance!
23. There is Tons of Great Shopping in Lisbon
Whether you’re looking for trendy summer fashions, artisan goods, handmade tiles, or just tins and tins of sardines as far as the eye can see—you’ll find it in Lisbon. If you plan to shop, just pack smarter than I did…I’m pretty positive I only made it out of Portugal without hundreds of euros in overweight fees because the Ryanair agent wanted my number.
For high-end luxury and exclusive boutiques (basically, if you’re ready to drop thousands of euros), head over to Avenida da Liberdade—one of the most beautiful streets in the city. If it’s authentic, local goods you seek, head to the Feira da Ladra flea market. Lastly, for handmade souvenirs like pottery and artwork, head to the artisanal shops in Bairro Alto or Alfama.
24. Locals Enjoy Life in Lisbon
Lisbon locals have a strong love for their city and for life in general—and who could blame them! Starting each day with a steaming hot & smooth bica (Portuguese coffee), snacking on pasteis de nata, enjoying constant beautiful views of their coastal city, and dining every day on local cuisine bursting with flavor…there’s nothing not to love.
The energy in the city is fun and friendly. Despite expats and foreigners contributing to the increased cost of living (and therefore a lot of problems for the locals), the people of Portugal and warm and welcoming to anyone that comes their way.
25. Lisbon Has Amazing Wine
If you’ve read any of my Rome content, you’ll know that I can’t get enough of European wine.
With over 250 indigenous grape varieties spread across the country, Portugal is home to an impressive wine scene, and Lisbon is nestled within some of its most famous wine regions. Enjoy delicious wines from Bucelas, Colares, and Carcavelos, as well as Alenquer, Arruda, Lourinhã, Óbidos and Torres Vedras, and Encostas d’Aire in the north.
To translate for my less seasoned wine connoisseurs: just order something made in Portugal in your price range and it’ll probably be yummy. Bonus points if it’s vinho verde: Portugal’s famous green wine.
26. Lisbon Also Has Amazing Coffee
Bica is used to describe a Portuguese coffee, similar to the Italian espresso, but with a few key differences.
Portuguese-roasted beans will bring a smoother, lighter taste to the beverage. It’s still strong, just less so than its Italian counterpart, and typically served in larger portions.
If strong, black coffee is a bit much for you, opt for a galão (coffee with milk). Pair it with a palmier—a puff pastry coated in sugar and rolled in the shape of a heart—for a typical Portuguese breakfast. It’s always a ‘Bom dia!’ waking up in beautiful Lisboa.
27. The Lisbon Dating Scene is Great for Expats
Naturally, a bustling city with many young singles (both local and transplants) is going to be an ideal dating scene. The awesome nightlife doesn’t hurt either when it comes to meeting new people! If you’re an expat looking to find love in the great city of Lisbon, you’ll have an abundance of options.
Once you’ve secured your love interest, there’s no shortage of romantic activities and settings to get to know each other. You could book a private sunset cruise, enjoy the view from one of the many romantic viewpoints, or simply head to one of the city’s boutique wine bars.
28. There are Great Rooftop Bars in Lisbon
Built on seven hills, Lisbon is the ideal setting for a plethora of bougie rooftop bars selling craft cocktails and yummy eats in addition to their panoramic sky decks. If the weather is nice (and it usually is around sunset), head to one of my favorite spots below to enjoy the stunning views and get your drink on.
- Topo Martim Moniz
- Javá Rooftop
- The V Rooftop Bar
- Zambeze Restaurant & Rooftop Bar
- Madame Rooftop Bar (for chill vibes)
29. Lisbon has Great Street Art
In Lisbon, you don’t even need to step foot in an art gallery to see tons of original artwork! This coastal city is well known throughout Europe for its plethora of colorful and unique street art. Find some of the city’s best works in Bairro Alto, Graca, Mouraria, and Alcântara.
If you’re really a street art junkie, consider hopping on a guided street art tour. Otherwise, just make sure your camera is charged, these murals make for awesome photo ops!
30. Lisbon Loves Decorative Floors
We’ve already covered Lisbon’s affinity for ornate murals, tiles, colors, and street art—but the city’s beautiful art doesn’t always end at the bottom of the wall. While you explore Lisbon in areas like Rossio Square and Praça do Comércio, take a minute to observe the ground you’re walking on.
In 1848, Raphael Bordallo Pinheiro, the Portuguese realist painter, was charged with overseeing the renewal of Rossio Square. He paved the ground in the pattern of ocean waves to commemorate the Portuguese sailors crossing the seas. The trend stuck—and now you can find decorative flooring all over the city!
31. It’s Easy to Find Affordable Flights in and OUt of Lisbon’s International Airport
As a world traveler with an affinity for deals, I know as well as anybody that a well-planned budget trip begins and ends with the flight.
Since the pandemic, flight prices have been way up, and with the increased popularity of Portugal, Lisbon is no exception. However, it’s still possible to snag an affordable trip, especially compared to many other popular travel destinations. With a bit of vigilance, pre-planning, and flexibility, you can certainly fly in and out of Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) without breaking the bank.
32. Lisbon is a Content Creator’s Dream
Visually striking, colorful, and diverse, Lisbon is certainly photogenic—there’s no doubt about that. It’s also a highly sought-after travel destination for tourists around the world. For a travel content creator, this is a no-brainer recipe for success.
In fact, content creators in all niches can flourish in Lisboa.
Whether your niche is food, fashion, street art, or anything in between—you’ll find plenty of inspiration in this city. With the natural coast, architecture, rich history, culture, and easily accessible Digital Nomad Visa, this city draws content creators from all corners of the globe.
33. Lisbon has Beautiful Sunsets
If you’re wondering is Lisbon worth visiting?, the sunsets alone are reason enough for a resounding yes. Every day in Lisbon, as the sun retires for the evening, visitors and locals alike are treated to a beautiful sight. Sometimes with bright pinks, shimmering yellows, and vibrant oranges, these sunsets are sure to leave you breathless.
So get comfy at your favorite rooftop bar or miradouro, pour yourself a glass of vinho, and get ready to gaze out upon one of the most spectacular sunsets you’ve ever seen.
34. Lisbon Doesn’t have many Mosquitos
No one likes getting bothered by mosquitos, especially in all these breathtaking European cities that seem to have an abundance of everything except window screens. These little buggers sure know how to ruin an outdoor meal or what should have been a leisurely stroll around town. The great news is you won’t encounter them much in Lisbon.
35. There’s Something in Lisbon for Everyone
Whether you’re an outgoing party animal, an art and culture buff, the adventurous outdoorsy type, a shopaholic, a foodie, or anything in-between, you’ll find something you love about Lisbon. It’s also a city well-suited for any demographic of visitors: families, lovers, solo travelers, and groups of friends all enjoy this popular destination. So take a load off planning your next trip, because no one’s gonna leave disappointed on a trip to Lisbon.
Reasons Why Not to Visit Lisbon
Although I definitely believe that Lisbon is worth visiting, as with every city, there are some negatives to visiting the capital of Portugal.
I wouldn’t be an honest blogger if I didn’t give you both sides of the argument! Below, you’ll find a few reasons why you might not want to visit Lisbon.
1. Lisbon Gets Overcrowded in the On-Season
This is just an unfortunate, but expected, outcome of visiting any exciting and beautiful destination.
If you visit in the on-season, you may have to navigate hotel and dinner reservations, weave through crowds of tourists, and keep closer tabs on your personal items. Depending on your travel personality, this could be a minor inconvenience or a huge con. Personally, I prefer visiting in the off-season, since I hate pushing my way through crowds.
2. Accommodation in Lisbon is Very Expensive
Lisbon’s booming popularity in the European travel market means that accommodation prices have skyrocketed in recent years. You can still find decently affordable accommodation if you know where to look (especially if you’re open to hostels), but these hotels aren’t the major steal they used to be.
If you’re visiting on a budget, I highly recommend doing your research, looking into cheaper dates, or considering alternate options like Airbnbs and youth hostels.
3. There are Hills to Climb Around Every Corner
Lisbon’s stunning viewpoints aren’t all good…since behind every gorgeous view is a hill you climbed to get there.
I’ll be the first to admit, walking around this city is sweaty business—especially in the summer. However, the affordability of Ubers and Bolts, as well as the abundance of quality public transit, mean you can walk as little or as much as you like.
4. Parking in Lisbon is a Nightmare
Parking is definitely something to try and avoid in Lisbon. If you drove into the city, I’d recommend booking a hotel with included parking or simply turning in your rental upon arrival in favor of moving around on foot or booking ride share apps. A car is in no way necessary to navigating Lisbon, and it’ll make your trip much more of a hassle than just booking Ubers or taking the trams.
5. Lisbon has a Lack of Air Conditioning
There’s also a lack of central heating, but with year-round balmy temps, this is less of an inconvenience to visitors.
Most of the city’s hotels and Airbnbs will offer air conditioning, but if you plan on renting a room for a longer stay (like I did), be prepared for some sweaty nights. Thankfully, as mentioned earlier, there aren’t many mosquitos around, so sleeping with your windows open is a big help.
Visiting Lisbon FAQs:
Absolutely—Lisbon is worth visiting! Lisbon is a vibrant and charming city with so much to offer. From its stunning architecture, delicious food, and rich history, there’s something for everyone in this city.
Lisbon has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its affordable prices, beautiful weather, and welcoming atmosphere. It’s also a great mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. Unfortunately, the growing popularity is causing prices to skyrocket—therefore eliminating one of the factors that made it so popular in the first place.
Lisbon is a bustling city with plenty of character and charm. It’s known for its colorful buildings, winding streets, and stunning views of the Tagus River. The locals are friendly and the food is delicious—making it an all-around great place to visit.
Yes, many people in Lisbon speak English, especially in tourist areas. However, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Portuguese phrases as a sign of respect for the local culture.
Tipping in Lisbon is not expected, but it’s always appreciated for good service. A 5-10% tip at restaurants and cafes is common, while rounding up to the nearest euro is acceptable for taxis and other services.
Yes, Lisbon’s airport is located just a short metro or taxi ride away from the city center. It’s very convenient and easy to navigate. An Uber or Bolt from the airport to the city center costs anywhere from €7-15 one way.
Both Lisbon and Porto are beautiful cities with their own unique charms. If you have the time, it’s worth visiting both! However, if you’re short on time, consider your interests—Lisbon is known for its history and culture while Porto is famous for its wine. When it comes to views, both cities have them in spades.
Final Thoughts
The question, is Lisbon worth visiting?, can be answered with a confident “Yes”. This city is a spectacular mix of historic charm and modern influence, all wrapped in the warm glow of a Mediterranean climate and breathtaking scenery.
There’s always something new to discover walking the streets of Lisbon. Whether it’s a rooftop bar at sunset, a new street art mural, or a hidden miradouro with views of the River Tagus—you’re guaranteed to enjoy every minute spent in this magical city. I cherished my two months in Lisbon, and I’m already itching to return!
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