Book flights to Lisbon (LIS)

Book your visit to Lisbon

Winding cobbled streets, ancient ruins and magnificent cathedrals teamed with bustling markets and a thriving arts scene make Lisbon a perfect city break destination. This enchanting city is full of personality, where the narrow streets are lined with boutiques and family restaurants.

Head out of the city centre and you’re instantly surrounded by seven hills overlooking the Rio Tejo, covered in lush forests and with miles of incredible hiking and cycling trails.

Lisbon’s easy-going, relaxed charm makes it a perfect summer destination, with some beautiful beaches nearby for a lazy day by the sea. Art and music play a key role in the character of Portugal’s capital, with festivals celebrating the culture, food and spirit of Portugal. One visit is never enough.

Things to do in Lisbon

Fado is a traditional music style that’s central to Portuguese culture. Daily shows at the Cine Theatro Gymnasio introduce you to Fado, a style that’s been given World Heritage status by UNESCO.

Explore Alfama, the city’s oldest district and a twisted maze of streets and alleyways lined with historic architecture. Be sure to stop at the Santa Luzia viewpoint for some great views of the city.

Portuguese food is delicious and unique, so why not learn to create your own dishes with a cooking class? It’s an ideal way to immerse yourself in the culture of the city.

The stunning gardens of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation are peaceful, and the foundation is also home to museums housing modern art and countless artefacts. The gardens host summer music concerts in the open-air theatre.

Activities in Lisbon

With an average of 290 days of sunshine a year, it’s no surprise that Lisbon’s beaches are hugely popular with families. Head south out of the city centre towards Arrábida and you’ll find some of Portugal’s most beautiful and family-friendly beaches. The 25-mile journey is worth it for a day trip exploring gorgeous beaches such as Galapinhos, Galápos, Coelhos and Creiro.

Portugal is famous for its championship golf courses, and there are plenty to choose from around Lisbon, including Belas Clube de Campo, a challenging 19-hole course.

The region is also home to plenty of family attractions including theme parks and zoos. Tours guide you through Lisbon’s unique historic legacy, take a helicopter flight over the city, or cruise down the river Tejo and see old Lisbon from a different viewpoint.

Food in Lisbon

Food in Lisbon ranges from light and sweet egg custard pastries to hearty rich stews and freshly fried sardines. Make sure your morning coffee comes with a Pastel De Nata, a flaky pastry with a creamy egg custard filling.

Bacalhau is deeply rooted in Portuguese culture. This salted cod is served with crispy fried potatoes or a rich cream sauce.

Chicken is a common feature on menus, and the region’s unique Peri Peri spice blend makes the simplest grilled chicken taste delicious.

Thanks to its proximity to the sea, Lisbon is renowned for its seafood, including fresh lobsters and jumbo prawns cooked simply with lemon and pepper. Cataplana de Marisco is a seafood stew served with rice. Hop across the river to the village of Porto Brandão to taste the best example of this Lisbon favourite!

Shopping in Lisbon

For a shopping experience in pedestrianised comfort, Baixa district’s Rua Augusta is a favourite retail area filled with major chain stores. Browse a selection of independent shops and famous brands in the dedicated shopping area of Armazéns do Chiado where you’ll find plenty of bookstores, cafés and restaurants. For a touch of luxury, visit Avenida Liberdade for high-end fashion boutiques.

Lisbon has several large malls that combine retail with entertainment such as multiplex cinemas, funfairs and bowling alleys.

For a more relaxed market atmosphere, the Feira da Ladra market is held on Tuesdays and Saturdays and is a busy antique market full of fascinating stalls and trinkets. There are also artisan’s markets such as the Benfica Handicrafts Market for handmade leatherwork, jewellery and ceramics.