Curator’s statement
Lisbon has been home to me for the past few years. I absolutely adore how there is something for everyone here. From beaches to city to bars, this city has it all!
The Fora Difference
Book with Patricia to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Lisbon
AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado
Head-turning boutique hotel on one of Lisbon’s most beautiful squares.
Fora Perks
- ★
Welcome amenities.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
The Lumiares Hotel and Spa
An all-encompassing homage to the arts and crafts of Portugal housed in one elegant, 5-star hotel and spa.
Fora Perks
- ★
Hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Bairro Alto Hotel
This luxury boutique Lisbon stay combines refined, modern decor with a reverence for Lisbon's colorful heritage.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisbon
Luxury hotel in Lisbon with a stylish restaurant and rooftop eatery.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Memmo Príncipe Real
Polished hillside property in the heart of Lisbon with chic rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
- ★
VIP welcome & amenity.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Patricia to book your trip.
Things to do in Lisbon
Favorites
Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara
Lisbon Neighborhoods
Bairro Alto
Principe Real
Santos
Chiado
Alfama
Graca
Avenida Liberdade
Campo-Ourique
Belem
Alcantara
Note: Lisbon is quite small, so you can walk everywhere. The beauty of the city is how easy it can be to get lost, but then to find yourself again! Miradors are the scenic piazzas at the top of the hills, perfect to admire the gorgeous city views.
Day Trips
Cascais: Known as the Portuguese Riviera.
Sintra: Set atop the hill, known for its incredible, lush gardens and palaces.
Cabo de Roca: Eastern-most tip of Europe.
Sesimbra: Cute, very relaxed beach town.
Almada: Home to the Cristo Rei, lunch at Punto Final.
Costa de Caparica: Beautiful stretch of beach filled with restaurants and beach clubs.
Helpful Portuguese phrases:
Hello: Ola
Good morning: Bom dia
Good afternoon: Boa tarde
Good night: Boa noite
Goodbye: Adeus
Please: por favor
Thank you: Obrigado / Obrigdada (if you are a woman)
Sorry: Desculpe
Yes: Sim
No: Nao
I don’t speak portuguese: Nao fao portuguese
Check, please: A conta, por favor
How much is it: Quanto custa?
Note: English is the second language in Portugal, so it should be easy to get around!
Helpful Lisbon tips
Uber and Cabs are great ways to get around, however, because of traffic, it’s sometimes faster to walk.
Consider shoes with good traction. The sidewalks are made of limestone and can get slippery (especially when wet!)
Lisbon is known as the city of the seven hills, so be prepared for a lot of uphill walking.
Crosswalks painted on the streets signal the pedestrian has a right of way and cars will stop to let you cross!
The sun is very strong in Lisbon, but it can get chillier at night, so dressing in layers is the best solution.
If you order a “cafe” you will get an espresso. If you want something longer, ask for an “americano”
Dinner is typically anywhere between 8 pm - 11 pm.
When you sit down at a restaurant, they will automatically bring you some snacks to nibble on (Bread, cheese, olives etc.). Note, this is not free and you will be charged for this.
Everything you eat. If you don’t want it, you can tell the server no, thank you.
Tipping culture: At your discretion and not required. General rule is not to tip more than 10 percent
Places to eat & drink in Lisbon
Beach clubs
Praia Princessa
Praia Irmao
Casa Reia
Kailuha
Posta da Onda
Note: Costa de Caparica is easily accessible via uber/taxi/car. Recommend to reserve in advance for beds and/or eating. Some of these beach clubs have special events or DJs at night, and you can dance the night away at the beach. Check their websites or social media for the latest information.
Brunch
Dear Breakfast
Augusto
Seagull Method
Heim Cafe
Hygge
Dinner
Taberna D’Avillez
Tapisco
Pica Pau
Estrela da Bica
Oficina do Duque
Cafe do Sao Bento (oldest steakhouse in Lisbon!)
Dinner with trendier vibe
Rocco's
JNCQ
Best pastel de nata
Pasteleria Belem
Manteigeria
Fabric de Nata
Castro
Rooftop Bars
Carmo Rooftop (Topo Chiado)
Java
Park
Wine bars
Vino Vero
Black Sheep
Magnolia
Cocktail bars
Gin Lovers
Pavilhao Chines
Favorite Kiosks
Super common all over Lisbon, they sell snacks and drinks!
Praca das Flores
Largo do Carmo
Praca do Principe Real
Travel Advisor
Patricia Caruso
Get in touch with Patricia
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Patricia within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Lisbon. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Exploring the Treasures of Campania, Italy.