A medieval hilltop castle with sweeping views over Lisbon and the Tagus River. A must.
Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood — cobblestone alleys, fado music drifting from open doors, and the city’s most authentic soul. Best explored on foot.
One of Lisbon’s most beautiful viewpoints, with panoramic views over the Baixa rooftops toward the castle.
A romantic terrace in Alfama draped in bougainvillea, overlooking the river. Perfect at golden hour.
A hauntingly beautiful ruined Gothic convent open to the sky — one of Lisbon’s most unique sights.
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos & Torre de Belém Two of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Allow a morning for Belém. The Pastéis de Belém bakery is right next door — don’t skip it.
Lisbon’s grand riverside square — elegant arches, the Tagus at your feet, and stunning sunset views.
The iconic vintage yellow tram that winds through Alfama, Chiado and Graça. More than transport — it’s an experience. Board mid-route (e.g. at Sé Cathedral) to avoid the long queues at the terminus. Keep an eye on your belongings.
A neo-Gothic iron lift connecting Baixa to Chiado, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel. The views from the top walkway are free if you access via the Carmo Convent side.
Lisbon’s famous food hall in Cais do Sodré — the best chefs and producers under one roof. Great for a casual lunch.
A reimagined industrial complex in Alcântara — boutiques, restaurants, galleries and street art. Sunday market is particularly special.
Try Portugal’s iconic cherry liqueur served in a small chocolate cup. A true Lisbon ritual. Head to Ginjinha do Carmo near the Convento for an authentic, no-frills experience.
2 Michelin Stars Chef José Avillez’s two-Michelin-star temple of modern Portuguese cuisine in Chiado. One of the finest dining experiences in Europe.
1 Michelin Star Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa’s Michelin-starred restaurant in Chiado, blending Portuguese tradition with global influences. Elegant and memorable.
A more relaxed offering from Chef José Avillez — a beautifully designed space with excellent Portuguese food across different dining rooms.
A tiny, beloved tavern in Chiado with just 9 tables, a blackboard menu and exceptional traditional Portuguese cooking. Book ahead.
A Lisbon institution since 1956. The city’s best seafood — clams, lobster, scarlet prawns — and a legendary prego steak sandwich for dessert. Expect a queue. It’s worth it. Order the garlic shrimp and clams.
Lisbon’s oldest brewery, housed in a 13th-century convent with stunning azulejo tiles. Classic seafood and cold beer in a historic setting.
One of Lisbon’s most loved neo-tascas in Mouraria — creative takes on classic Portuguese dishes, written on a blackboard, always changing. Arrive early or expect a wait. The octopus lagareiro is unmissable.
A fairytale Romantic palace perched atop the Serra, painted in vivid yellow and red. The views over the Sintra mountains and the Atlantic are extraordinary.
A mysterious Romantic estate with an ornate palace, elaborate gardens, grottos — and the famous Initiation Well, a spiralling underground staircase that descends 30 metres. The well is the highlight. Visit right at opening to avoid queues.
An atmospheric 8th-century Moorish hilltop fortress with ancient stone walls and panoramic views over Sintra, the palace and the Atlantic beyond.
A lesser-visited gem — a stunning Romantic palace blending Gothic, Moorish and Indian influences, surrounded by one of the most impressive botanical gardens in Europe.
The oldest and best-preserved royal palace in Portugal, right in the centre of town. Known for its iconic twin conical chimneys and intricate azulejo-tiled interiors.
The westernmost point of mainland Europe — dramatic Atlantic cliffs, a lighthouse, and an overwhelming sense of standing at the edge of the known world. Combine with a visit to Praia do Guincho on the way back.
The legendary Sintra bakery — home of the travesseiro, a pillow-shaped pastry filled with almond cream that has been a local favourite since the early 20th century. Try the travesseiro. It is not negotiable.
The finest dining experience in the Sintra region — elegant surroundings, exceptional Portuguese cuisine, and views over the Serra de Sintra.
A refined, white-tablecloth restaurant in Sintra town with outstanding modern Portuguese food and an excellent wine list. Perfect for a long, leisurely lunch.
A charming, relaxed café near the train station — perfect for a light lunch, a coffee, or a quiet moment before exploring.