-> January 13, 2026
Portugal Homes
Get the best property advice.
Located on the west coast of Portugal, Lisbon offers the perfect lifestyle for those who want to enjoy city living while still being able to spend a day at the beach.
This historic city offers plenty to see and do, along with some of Europe’s top restaurants and bars. Lisbon is easily accessible by air via Lisbon Portela Airport, as well as by train and road from major cities across Europe.
Things to do in Lisbon
1. Belém Tower
.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Belém Tower, a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries
Built between 1514 and 1520 on the banks of the Tagus River, Belém Tower is one of the finest examples of Manueline architecture and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.
UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1983), alongside Jerónimos Monastery
Originally part of Lisbon’s river defence system
Later used as a lighthouse and customs house
Five levels, including the Governor’s Hall, King’s Hall, Audience Hall, Chapel, and rooftop terrace
Ground floor features cannon embrasures and former prison chambers
One of Lisbon’s most iconic and historically significant landmarks.
.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Cabo da Roca, the place “where the land ends and the sea begins”
Located at the western edge of the Serra de Sintra, Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
Lighthouse dating from 1772
Cliffs rise 165 metres above the Atlantic Ocean
Immortalised by poet Luís de Camões as the place “where the land ends and the sea begins”
Once believed to be the edge of the known world
A dramatic and unforgettable coastal viewpoint.
3. Tram 28
.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Tram 28, historic 1930s remodelled trams
One of the most authentic ways to explore Lisbon’s historic districts.
Runs from Martim Moniz to Campo de Ourique
Passes through Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and other historic areas
Travels through narrow streets inaccessible to modern trams
Offers views of Sé Cathedral and famous viewpoints such as Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia
Uses historic 1930s remodelled trams, still part of daily public transport
A moving sightseeing experience through the heart of Lisbon.

Lisbon's Oceanarium
One of Europe’s most impressive aquariums and a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence recipient.
Main tank holds 5 million litres of seawater
Home to over 8,000 marine animals from 500 species
Four ecosystems representing the world’s oceans
Central tank creates the illusion of a single open ocean
Species include sharks, sunfish, clownfish, sea otters, coral reefs, and more
An immersive experience for all ages.
5. Jerónimos Monastery
.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
The most powerful symbol of Portugal’s wealth and influence during the Age of Discoveries.
Construction began in 1502 under King Manuel I
Built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Tombs of Vasco da Gama and poet Luís de Camões
Lavishly carved cloisters with maritime motifs
Former refectory with vaulted ceilings and tile panels
.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Perched atop Lisbon’s highest hill, São Jorge Castle offers both history and panoramic views.
Evidence of Roman, Visigoth, Moorish, and Christian occupation
Played a key role in Lisbon’s defence and early monarchy
Medieval battlements, towers, and gardens
Sweeping views over Lisbon and the Tagus River
One of the most visited monuments in Portugal.
7. Praça do Comércio
.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Lisbon’s grandest and most important square.
Built after the 1755 earthquake on the site of the former Royal Palace
Open southern side facing the Tagus River
Once the main gateway for goods and dignitaries arriving by ship
Triumphal Arch completed in 1873, adorned with statues of key Portuguese figures
A defining symbol of Lisbon’s rebirth and maritime history.
8. Santa Justa Lift

A striking vertical elevator linking Baixa with Largo do Carmo.
Inaugurated in 1902
Designed by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard, inspired by Gustave Eiffel
Originally steam-powered, electrified in 1907
Observation deck offers panoramic views over central Lisbon
Now one of Lisbon’s most popular viewpoints.
9. April 25th Bridge

One of Lisbon’s most recognisable landmarks, spanning the Tagus River.
Opened in 1966, renamed after the Carnation Revolution (1974)
Length: 2,277 metres
Two levels: road traffic above, trains below
Built by the same consortium as San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge
Designed to withstand seismic activity
A powerful symbol of modern Lisbon.
10. National Coach Museum

One of Lisbon’s most unique museums.
Opened in 1905 by Queen Amélia
Houses one of the world’s finest collections of royal carriages
Vehicles date from the 17th to 19th centuries
Includes carriages belonging to Philip II of Spain and Pope Clement XI
Small in size but rich in history.
11. Praça do Rossio
.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Officially Dom Pedro IV Square, Rossio is the heart of the city.
Famous wave-patterned pavement
Historic meeting point for locals and visitors
Home to Dona Maria II Theatre
Monument to King Pedro IV
Nearby landmarks include Rossio Station and St. Dominic’s Church
One of Lisbon’s most vibrant public spaces.
With so much to do, Lisbon is more than just a popular travel destination; it is a city offering long-term lifestyle and investment opportunities.
Portugal Homes
Get the best property advice.