Things To Do
FREE Lisbon Walking Tours
A Lisbon walking tour is a fantastic way to explore the city’s rich history, colorful neighborhoods, and vibrant culture on foot. Stroll through iconic districts like Alfama, Baixa, and Bairro Alto, discover hidden streets, historic landmarks, and charming viewpoints, and learn about Lisbon’s stories, architecture, and traditions from knowledgeable local guides. Walking tours offer an intimate, immersive experience, allowing you to see the city at your own pace while capturing the essence of its winding alleys, tiled façades, and lively plazas. Pay as you wish - donation basis
Pastéis de Belém (Original Portuguese Eggtart)
They say THIS is where the very first, original pasteis de nata egg tart was made, by nuns from the monastery next door. The recipe is so tightly guarded that supposedly only 2 people in the world know it and they are never allowed to travel together in case they both perish!
Sintra - National Palace of Pena
Just a short car or train ride away is Sintra, a beautiful forested historic town where long ago the royal family used to vacation thanks to the regions micro-climate. The Pena Palace is a stunning castle influenced by moorish architecture. Inside is a museum exhibit of the many rooms and belongings of the royal family. Outside, the palace grounds feels like a magical forest of all kinds of trees and plants, yet with walkways and winding stone paths that feel romantic. Be sure to buy tickets ahead of time and select your designated entry time to ensure smooth access to the estate.
Sintra - Quinta da Regaleira
Quinta da Regaleira is a magical estate in Sintra, Portugal, famous for its fairytale-like gardens, towers, and the mysterious Initiation Well. Built in the early 20th century, it blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline styles with hidden tunnels, grottoes, and symbolic architecture inspired by mythology and alchemy. The enchanting grounds make it a perfect backdrop for weddings, offering a romantic and whimsical setting full of surprises around every corner. Be sure to buy tickets ahead of time and select your designated entry time to ensure smooth access to the estate.
Sintra - The Moorish Castle
Built by the Moors and later restored, its ancient stone walls, towers, and battlements allow visitors to walk along the ramparts and imagine life during medieval times (8th - 9th Century). The castle’s dramatic setting and historic charm make it a must-see for those exploring Sintra, providing a perfect mix of history, adventure, and panoramic scenery. Visitors must purchase a ticket to enter the Moorish Castle, which does not require a timed entry.
Fado Show (Traditional Portuguese Live Music) - O Corrido, Casa de Fado
Both Memmo Alfama and Hotel Santa Justa suggested hotels offer complimentary Fado shows, but if you happen to miss them, O Corrido is a popular nearby spot known for its excellent Portuguese cuisine. A Fado show is a must-experience in Lisbon, offering an intimate glimpse into Portugal’s soulful music tradition. Characterized by heartfelt singing, often accompanied by classical and Portuguese guitars, Fado tells stories of love, longing, and life’s bittersweet moments. Many venues combine the performance with traditional Portuguese cuisine, creating a truly immersive cultural evening. Reservations Only *If you are staying at Memmo Alfama Hotel, there are FREE Fado Shows Mondays and Thursdays 8:30 - 11:00 PM *If you are staying at Santa Justa, there are FREE Live Fado Music at Restaurant Elevador typically on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 8 PM to 10 PM
Restaurant - PRADO
Prado is a MUST! Michael and I had our first dinner here and we still can’t stop thinking about it! $80 for a course meal and best wine menu in town.
Restaurant - Entropia Lisboa
Entropia in Lisbon’s charming Bica neighborhood is a cozy, stylish restaurant and bar known for its creative take on Portuguese and European comfort cuisine. Situated along the iconic Bica funicular route, it’s a relaxed yet vibrant spot to enjoy small plates, signature cocktails, and approachable dishes in a lively historic setting — perfect for an evening meal or drinks during your visit. Atmosphere: Small, cozy and intimate Reservation recommended - limited seating
Restaurant - Da Noi
Da Noi is a cozy, Mediterranean‑inspired restaurant tucked into Lisbon’s Madragoa/Santos neighborhood, known for its welcoming, laid‑back vibe and dishes designed for sharing. The menu blends rustic Mediterranean flavors with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and guests rave about standout items like tuna tacos, pork belly, and creative pasta and small plates — all served in an intimate, buzzy space that often fills up early, so reservations are recommended. Atmosphere: Small, quaint, cozy Reservation recommended
Restaurant - Skizzo
Skizzo in Lisbon is a trendy, wood‑fired restaurant from the team behind Da Noi, known for its creative small plates, seasonal dishes, and vibrant open‑kitchen energy. Set in a relaxed yet stylish space with great cocktails, natural wines, and a buzzy atmosphere, Skizzo blends Mediterranean‑inspired flavors with Portuguese influences — perfect for sharing dishes around the table with friends or family. Atmosphere: Lively, Intimate Reservations are recommended
Restaurant - Fabric (Lunch)
Fabric is a popular Lebanese and Mediterranean restaurant in Lisbon’s São Paulo/Cais do Sodré area known for fresh, flavorful dishes like falafel, mezze, pita sandwiches, and more in a cozy, casual setting. Atmosphere: Casual, lunch spot
Restaurant - Do Beco Santos (Cafe)
Do Beco Santos is a beloved artisanal bakery and brunch spot in Lisbon’s Santos neighborhood known for its freshly baked breads, creative pastries, specialty coffee, and all‑day breakfast and lunch offerings in a bright, stylish space. Guests rave about the friendly service, quality ingredients, and thoughtful menu — from flaky croissants and pain au chocolat to inventive brunch dishes — making it a great stop for a relaxed morning or midday meal. The atmosphere is welcoming and casual yet refined, and because it’s popular, it can get busy during peak brunch hours.
Restaurant - ALBI Lisboa (Cafe)
ALBI Lisboa is a charming and highly‑rated café‑restaurant and wine bar in the heart of Lisbon’s São Bento/Rato area, known for its fresh, flavorful brunch and lunch fare, excellent coffee, and curated wine list. It’s a small, cozy, and intimate spot loved by locals and visitors alike, with friendly service and beautifully presented dishes like avocado toast, focaccia, huevos rancheros, and seasonal specialties — perfect for a relaxed breakfast, brunch, or casual meal in a welcoming atmosphere. Reservations are recommended To make a reservation at ALBI Lisboa, you can usually contact the restaurant directly through their Instagram page/website
Restaurant - Marquise da Mobler (Cafe)
Marquise is a stylish and relaxed café‑restaurant in Lisbon’s heart, known for its creative brunch and all‑day menu, excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and beautifully plated dishes. With a bright, modern interior and welcoming vibe, it’s a favorite spot for a leisurely breakfast, weekend brunch, or a casual lunch with friends — perfect if you’re looking for a mix of quality food and laid‑back atmosphere in a cozy, friendly setting.
Restaurant - Seagull Method (Cafe)
Seagull Method is a vibrant café and brunch spot in Lisbon’s Santos neighborhood known for its well‑crafted coffee, creative brunch dishes, and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients with options like avocado toast, grain bowls, pastries, and specialty espresso drinks — perfect for a laid‑back breakfast or midday meal with friends. With its modern yet cozy interior and friendly service, Seagull Method has become a favorite destination for coffee lovers and brunch goers alike. Reservations: It’s a casual café with mostly walk‑in seating, but during peak weekend brunch hours arriving early can help secure a table without a wait.