Visiting Lisbon: Your Guide to Planning the Trip

Why visit Lisbon

The capital of Portugal rises in tiers above the Tagus estuary. What sets it apart is the number of distinct neighbourhoods packed close together: the medieval alleys of Alfama beneath São Jorge Castle, the Baixa grid rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake, stylish Chiado, lively Bairro Alto, the Manueline monuments of Belém and the modern riverside of Parque das Nações.

It is also a convenient base for day trips: Sintra's palaces and the seaside town of Cascais are both a short suburban train ride away.

When to go to Lisbon

The climate is mild for most of the year. Average highs sit around 14–15°C in January and 27–28°C in August, the warmest month.

• Spring (April–June): pleasant temperatures for tackling the hills and long days. June brings the neighbourhood street festivals.
• Summer (July–August): heat, crowds and peak accommodation prices; the nearby beaches come into their own.
• Autumn (September–October): often the best balance of weather, crowds and cost.
• Winter (November–March): wetter, but quieter and cheaper.

How many days in Lisbon?

Three days is enough for the highlights: one day for Alfama, Baixa and Chiado, one for Belém and the riverside, one for Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real and the miradouros. Allow four to five days to add Sintra and half a day in Cascais or Parque das Nations. For Belém's busiest sights (Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower), book a timed slot online in advance.

Getting there and getting around

Flying from the UK

Lisbon is well served by direct flights from London and a number of UK regional airports. Humberto Delgado Airport lies within the city, north of the centre, and the red Metro line links it to the urban network; taxis, Uber and buses are the alternatives. Our guide to getting from Lisbon Airport to the city centre by Metro, taxi, Uber or bus compares options, journey times and fares.

Entry rules after Brexit

British passport holders can stay visa-free in the Schengen Area, including Portugal, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before arrival and be valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave. The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) means fingerprints and a photo may be taken at the border, so allow extra time. Check the latest GOV.UK entry requirements for Portugal before you travel.

Getting around the city

The centre is walkable, but steep hills and polished cobbles take their toll, so wear sturdy shoes. The Metro (4 lines), Carris buses and trams (including the well-known Tram 28) and the funiculars cover the city, with fares loaded onto a reusable Navegante card. Trains to Sintra (from Rossio) and Cascais (from Cais do Sodré) each take around 40 minutes.

Budget: key costs

Lisbon is generally cheaper than many Western European capitals, although central accommodation has become much more expensive, especially in summer. A few fixed costs worth knowing:

The Lisboa Card combines public transport (including trains to Sintra and Cascais) with entry to many sights; it is worth it if you plan several paid visits a day. Check current prices with the official tourist board, Visit Lisboa.

Where to stay in Lisbon

• Baixa and Chiado: the most central choice, flat in the Baixa, well connected and ideal for a first visit.
• Alfama and Graça: atmospheric lanes and viewpoints, but plenty of steps and awkward with luggage.
• Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real and Cais do Sodré: restaurants and nightlife; expect noise in the evenings.
• Avenida da Liberdade and Marquês de Pombal: larger hotels, calmer avenues and many Metro stations.
• Belém: peaceful riverside district, further from the centre.
• Parque das Nações: modern and close to the airport, practical for short stays, less traditional.

Good to know

• Tram 28 is crowded and a known spot for pickpockets: keep valuables secure.
• The tourist tax is paid directly to your hotel or holiday let.
• Portugal uses Type F sockets, so bring a UK-to-EU adaptor.
• Carry on planning with our Portugal travel guide.

Frequently asked questions