The Best of Lisbon
I am a solo female traveler but this guide is great for everyone who wants to see the best of Lisbon without breaking the bank
35 Places • ago
Free
History & Facts about Lisbon
-Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal & is the oldest city in Western Europe, dating back to 1200 BC
-It is also known at the ‘City of Seven Hils’
-It became one of the most important ports in the world in the 15th century
-On November 1st, 1755 most of the city was destroyed by an earthquake & was estimated to have killed 1/3 of the population. A tsunami & fires consequently followed
-Pombaline is the style of architecture that Lisbon was rebuilt in, these were some of the 1st earthquake resistant buildings in Europe
-Lisbon is located on the Tagus River, about 8 miles from the Atlantic Ocean
-Fado music is a melancholy music that originated in Alfama, it was sung by sailors’ wives awaiting the return of their loved ones
-The April 25th Bridge looks extremely similar to the Golden Gate Bridge because they were both designed by the American Bridge Company
Yes! Lisbon Hostel
@breterlopsolotravel
Yes! Lisbon Hostel is an amazing hostel in a central location walkable to most attractions. It was super clean & each bed has its own curtains, storage, outlets, & shelves. There was a great common area and very friendly staff/guests. There were very fun activities to do during the day and at night like walking tours and bar crawls.
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Details
Alfama
@breterlopsolotravel
Alfama is one of the oldest districts in Lisbon as it was one of only a few parts of the city that was not destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. There is Islamic influence here & the architecture is stunning. It’s a perfect place to put your map away, get your camera out, & just wander through the winding streets & alleyways
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Details
Belém Tower
@breterlopsolotravel
Belém Tower is one the 7 wonders of Portugal & a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entrance fee is €6, is open from 1000-1730, & is closed on Mondays. You can avoid the long lines by buying a skip the line ticket in advance. Audio tour is available. You can eat at Cafe do Forte right next door
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LxFactory
@breterlopsolotravel
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Ler Devagar
@breterlopsolotravel
LX Factory was a fabric production plant that has now been converted into trendy complex with a plethora of restaurants, bars & shops. There is so much incredible & unique art to see here & it has one of the coolest bookstores I’ve been to, Ler Devagar.
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This is an amazing Airbnb experience that is especially great for solo travelers. It is a dinner experience at a beautiful apartment with other travelers where you get to eat & drink local Portuguese dinner & wines while learning about Portugal culture, history, cuisine, & landscapes.
A champagne sunset on the Tagus River is a must while in Lisbon. This one is through Airbnb experiences & is super affordable for $25/person. You get unlimited champagne & amazing views of the Monument of Discoveries, Belém Tower, & Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge during sunset.
Rua Nova do Carvalho
@breterlopsolotravel
Also known as the Pink Street, Rua Nova do Carvalho is known for its nightlife and the vibrant pink road lined by bright umbrellas. Here you can find restaurants, bars, clubs, & people dancing in the street all hours of the night. There’s also plenty of restaurants to eat at during the day.
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Musicbox Lisboa
@breterlopsolotravel
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JNcQUOI Asia
@breterlopsolotravel
JNCQUOI Asia is an incredible restaurant located on Avenida de Liberdade. The 4 different cuisines you can enjoy here are Thai, Chinese, Japanese, & Indian. This is one of the most beautifully decorated restaurants I’ve been in & it’s worth it to go to just enjoy the atmosphere & ambiance
Add to
Details
Time Out Market Lisboa
@breterlopsolotravel
This amazing food market has over 35 food stalls of so many different varieties. Some of the top food stands include Miguel Castro e Silva, Croqueteria, O Surf & Turf, Monte Mar, & Tartar-ia
Add to
Details
Carmo Convent
@breterlopsolotravel
Carmo Convent was a 14th century Catholic church & convent that was mostly destroyed during the 1755 Earthquake. The roof is now missing & it is an extremely unique place to visit, I found the architecture to be mesmerizing. Entry fee is €5
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Details
Largo Portas do Sol
@breterlopsolotravel
Portas do Sol has one of the best views of Lisbon where you can see all the terra-cotta rooftops spread before you & the Tagus River. There are numerous cafes & restaurants in this area. There is always live music & it’s a great place to soak in the view as you’re taking a break from the hills of Alfama
Add to
Details
Rua Augusta
@breterlopsolotravel
This is the main pedestrian street. It starts with the beautiful Praça do Comércio & Rua Augusta Arch (you can go inside for €3.50 for great views of the city). There are a plethora of restaurants but keep in mind that they will be more expensive as this is the most touristy area
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Santa Justa Lift
@breterlopsolotravel
The 19th century Santa Justa Lift is the most unique & incredible elevator I’ve ever seen. It takes you from the Baixa district to the Largo do Carmo so you can bypass the hills & stairs. It costs €5.30 but bare in mind there will be a long line during the high season. Even if you don’t ride the lift, it is still worth it to see.
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Details
A Ginjinha
@breterlopsolotravel
Ginjinha is a popular Portuguese cherry liqueur & is the official drink of Lisbon. There are many bars in Lisbon where you can try this drink but Ginjinha Espinheira has been doing business since 1840 so they know their stuff
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Details
Pastéis de Belém
@breterlopsolotravel
Pastel de nata is a delicious & flaky Portugese custard tart that you have to try for breakfast. Pastéis de Belem has been making pastel de natas since 1837 so it’s a staple. Their recipe is so secretive that it’s never been written down & only 3 bakers know the recipe to it. Its a great spot to grab them after you visit the Belém Tower & Jeronimos Monastery
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Details
Jerónimos Monastery
@breterlopsolotravel
Jerónimos Monastery is a 16th century UNESCO World Heritage Site located right near Belém Tower. The late Gothic architecture is absolutely stunning & worth admiring. The entrance fee is €10 & it’s closed on Monday’s
Add to
Details
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
@breterlopsolotravel
I accidentally stumbled upon this beautiful park that has a perfect panoramic view of the city. It is amazing spot to watch the sunset & the have quite a few food & drink kiosks so I was able to enjoy some delicious sangria with the view
Add to
Details
Tasca do Chico
@breterlopsolotravel
Fado music is a type of Portugese music that are melancholy singing & guitar. It is very emotional & worth it to see live in Lisbon. Tasca do Chico has live Fado music Monday & Wednesday starting at 9 pm
Add to
Details
Castelo de S. Jorge
@breterlopsolotravel
Castelo de São Jorge is located on the highest hill in Lisbon. It was built in the 11th century & was declared a National Monument in 1910 & underwent a lot of restoration. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions for it’s incredible views. If you spend the day walking through Alfama, this is a great spot to make your way up to.
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Details
National Palace of Pena
@breterlopsolotravel
If you have enough time while in Lisbon, Sintra & Palace of Pena are must sees. Sintra is about 30 min outside of Lisbon & most people take a day tour from Lisbon. The gorgeous red & yellow Palace of Pena sits high on the hills of Sintra.
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Details
Rossio Square
@breterlopsolotravel
Rosario Square is a lively square where many people go to enjoy the cafes, fountains, & monuments. It is know for its wave pattern in the cobblestone
Add to
Details
Zé dos Bois gallery
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Topo Chiado
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Javá Rooftop
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
O Boteco
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Pateo - Bairro do Avillez
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Fauna & Flora - Chiado
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Cervejaria Ramiro
@breterlopsolotravel
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Details
Prado
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
O Velho Eurico
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Park Rooftop
@breterlopsolotravel
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Details
CINCO lounge
@breterlopsolotravel
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Details
The Wine Cellar
@breterlopsolotravel
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Details
Foxtrot
@breterlopsolotravel
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Details
Red Frog Speakeasy
@breterlopsolotravel
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Details
* * *
CURATED BY
Hello! I am a travel nurse from Ohio but have also lived in Arizona, California, & Hawai’i. I’ve traveled to 27 countries, 20 of those I’ve traveled to solo. I love to share about my favorite places I’ve been & offer an advice & tidbits I’ve learned along the way 🫶🏽
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The Best of Lisbon
I am a solo female traveler but this guide is great for everyone who wants to see the best of Lisbon without breaking the bank
35 Places • ago
Free
History & Facts about Lisbon
-Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal & is the oldest city in Western Europe, dating back to 1200 BC
-It is also known at the ‘City of Seven Hils’
-It became one of the most important ports in the world in the 15th century
-On November 1st, 1755 most of the city was destroyed by an earthquake & was estimated to have killed 1/3 of the population. A tsunami & fires consequently followed
-Pombaline is the style of architecture that Lisbon was rebuilt in, these were some of the 1st earthquake resistant buildings in Europe
-Lisbon is located on the Tagus River, about 8 miles from the Atlantic Ocean
-Fado music is a melancholy music that originated in Alfama, it was sung by sailors’ wives awaiting the return of their loved ones
-The April 25th Bridge looks extremely similar to the Golden Gate Bridge because they were both designed by the American Bridge Company
Yes! Lisbon Hostel
@breterlopsolotravel
Yes! Lisbon Hostel is an amazing hostel in a central location walkable to most attractions. It was super clean & each bed has its own curtains, storage, outlets, & shelves. There was a great common area and very friendly staff/guests. There were very fun activities to do during the day and at night like walking tours and bar crawls.
Add to
Details
Alfama
@breterlopsolotravel
Alfama is one of the oldest districts in Lisbon as it was one of only a few parts of the city that was not destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. There is Islamic influence here & the architecture is stunning. It’s a perfect place to put your map away, get your camera out, & just wander through the winding streets & alleyways
Add to
Details
Belém Tower
@breterlopsolotravel
Belém Tower is one the 7 wonders of Portugal & a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entrance fee is €6, is open from 1000-1730, & is closed on Mondays. You can avoid the long lines by buying a skip the line ticket in advance. Audio tour is available. You can eat at Cafe do Forte right next door
Add to
Details
LxFactory
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Ler Devagar
@breterlopsolotravel
LX Factory was a fabric production plant that has now been converted into trendy complex with a plethora of restaurants, bars & shops. There is so much incredible & unique art to see here & it has one of the coolest bookstores I’ve been to, Ler Devagar.
Add to
Details
This is an amazing Airbnb experience that is especially great for solo travelers. It is a dinner experience at a beautiful apartment with other travelers where you get to eat & drink local Portuguese dinner & wines while learning about Portugal culture, history, cuisine, & landscapes.
A champagne sunset on the Tagus River is a must while in Lisbon. This one is through Airbnb experiences & is super affordable for $25/person. You get unlimited champagne & amazing views of the Monument of Discoveries, Belém Tower, & Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge during sunset.
Rua Nova do Carvalho
@breterlopsolotravel
Also known as the Pink Street, Rua Nova do Carvalho is known for its nightlife and the vibrant pink road lined by bright umbrellas. Here you can find restaurants, bars, clubs, & people dancing in the street all hours of the night. There’s also plenty of restaurants to eat at during the day.
Add to
Details
Musicbox Lisboa
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
JNcQUOI Asia
@breterlopsolotravel
JNCQUOI Asia is an incredible restaurant located on Avenida de Liberdade. The 4 different cuisines you can enjoy here are Thai, Chinese, Japanese, & Indian. This is one of the most beautifully decorated restaurants I’ve been in & it’s worth it to go to just enjoy the atmosphere & ambiance
Add to
Details
Time Out Market Lisboa
@breterlopsolotravel
This amazing food market has over 35 food stalls of so many different varieties. Some of the top food stands include Miguel Castro e Silva, Croqueteria, O Surf & Turf, Monte Mar, & Tartar-ia
Add to
Details
Carmo Convent
@breterlopsolotravel
Carmo Convent was a 14th century Catholic church & convent that was mostly destroyed during the 1755 Earthquake. The roof is now missing & it is an extremely unique place to visit, I found the architecture to be mesmerizing. Entry fee is €5
Add to
Details
Largo Portas do Sol
@breterlopsolotravel
Portas do Sol has one of the best views of Lisbon where you can see all the terra-cotta rooftops spread before you & the Tagus River. There are numerous cafes & restaurants in this area. There is always live music & it’s a great place to soak in the view as you’re taking a break from the hills of Alfama
Add to
Details
Rua Augusta
@breterlopsolotravel
This is the main pedestrian street. It starts with the beautiful Praça do Comércio & Rua Augusta Arch (you can go inside for €3.50 for great views of the city). There are a plethora of restaurants but keep in mind that they will be more expensive as this is the most touristy area
Add to
Details
Santa Justa Lift
@breterlopsolotravel
The 19th century Santa Justa Lift is the most unique & incredible elevator I’ve ever seen. It takes you from the Baixa district to the Largo do Carmo so you can bypass the hills & stairs. It costs €5.30 but bare in mind there will be a long line during the high season. Even if you don’t ride the lift, it is still worth it to see.
Add to
Details
A Ginjinha
@breterlopsolotravel
Ginjinha is a popular Portuguese cherry liqueur & is the official drink of Lisbon. There are many bars in Lisbon where you can try this drink but Ginjinha Espinheira has been doing business since 1840 so they know their stuff
Add to
Details
Pastéis de Belém
@breterlopsolotravel
Pastel de nata is a delicious & flaky Portugese custard tart that you have to try for breakfast. Pastéis de Belem has been making pastel de natas since 1837 so it’s a staple. Their recipe is so secretive that it’s never been written down & only 3 bakers know the recipe to it. Its a great spot to grab them after you visit the Belém Tower & Jeronimos Monastery
Add to
Details
Jerónimos Monastery
@breterlopsolotravel
Jerónimos Monastery is a 16th century UNESCO World Heritage Site located right near Belém Tower. The late Gothic architecture is absolutely stunning & worth admiring. The entrance fee is €10 & it’s closed on Monday’s
Add to
Details
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
@breterlopsolotravel
I accidentally stumbled upon this beautiful park that has a perfect panoramic view of the city. It is amazing spot to watch the sunset & the have quite a few food & drink kiosks so I was able to enjoy some delicious sangria with the view
Add to
Details
Tasca do Chico
@breterlopsolotravel
Fado music is a type of Portugese music that are melancholy singing & guitar. It is very emotional & worth it to see live in Lisbon. Tasca do Chico has live Fado music Monday & Wednesday starting at 9 pm
Add to
Details
Castelo de S. Jorge
@breterlopsolotravel
Castelo de São Jorge is located on the highest hill in Lisbon. It was built in the 11th century & was declared a National Monument in 1910 & underwent a lot of restoration. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions for it’s incredible views. If you spend the day walking through Alfama, this is a great spot to make your way up to.
Add to
Details
National Palace of Pena
@breterlopsolotravel
If you have enough time while in Lisbon, Sintra & Palace of Pena are must sees. Sintra is about 30 min outside of Lisbon & most people take a day tour from Lisbon. The gorgeous red & yellow Palace of Pena sits high on the hills of Sintra.
Add to
Details
Rossio Square
@breterlopsolotravel
Rosario Square is a lively square where many people go to enjoy the cafes, fountains, & monuments. It is know for its wave pattern in the cobblestone
Add to
Details
Zé dos Bois gallery
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Topo Chiado
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Javá Rooftop
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
O Boteco
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Pateo - Bairro do Avillez
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Fauna & Flora - Chiado
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Cervejaria Ramiro
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Prado
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
O Velho Eurico
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Park Rooftop
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
CINCO lounge
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
The Wine Cellar
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Foxtrot
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
Red Frog Speakeasy
@breterlopsolotravel
Add to
Details
* * *
CURATED BY
Hello! I am a travel nurse from Ohio but have also lived in Arizona, California, & Hawai’i. I’ve traveled to 27 countries, 20 of those I’ve traveled to solo. I love to share about my favorite places I’ve been & offer an advice & tidbits I’ve learned along the way 🫶🏽
PERSONALIZED TRAVEl SERVICES
Connect
with
a
local
expert
to
help
plan
your
ideal
trip
Send A Tip
Support Breana Terlop’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Read more about places in this guide