11 Most Overlooked Lisbon Travel Tips That Could Save Your Trip

It’s easy to visit Lisbon and only realize later what you should have done differently. We’ve all had trips where we learned things the hard way, whether it’s wasting time in long lines or not knowing how to get around. 

To help you avoid those regrets, here are some underrated travel tips that will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Travel Tips for Lisbon

Here are the top 16 Lisbon Portugal travel tips to help you out.

1. Visit Lisbon at the Best Time

Lisbon has great weather most of the year, but summer gets packed with tourists. Spring and fall are perfect—not too hot, not too crowded.

Winter is cheaper if you don’t mind some rain. Either way, you’ll still get plenty of sunshine.

2. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lisbon is full of hills and cobblestone streets. If you bring fancy shoes, you’re going to regret it really fast. Sneakers or anything comfortable will save your feet when you’re climbing up to all those viewpoints.

3. Use Public Transport or Uber

Taxis here can overcharge you, so we greatly recommend you use the metro, buses, or trams. If you need a ride, Uber is cheaper and more reliable. Also, parking is a nightmare, so don’t bother renting a car unless you’re leaving the city. ​

4. Save Money with Free Stuff

You don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy Lisbon. Wander around Alfama, check out the viewpoints (they’re free), or take a free walking tour. 

If you’re around on a Saturday, the Berardo Collection Museum has free entry. ​

5. Learn a Few Portuguese Words

Most people speak English, but knowing a few words makes things easier. “Olá” (hello), “Obrigado/Obrigada” (thank you), and “Por favor” (please) go a long way. Locals appreciate the effort.

6. Watch Out for Pickpockets

Like any touristy place, pickpockets are a thing, especially on busy trams and in crowded spots. Keep your bag in front of yo,u and don’t put valuables in your pockets (simple as that).

7. Get a Lisbon Card

If you plan on visiting a bunch of attractions, the Lisbon Card is worth it. It covers public transport and gives you discounts or free entry to places like Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.

If you plan on visiting a lot of attractions, the Lisbon Card is a great deal. It costs €21 for 24 hours, €35 for 48 hours, and €44 for 72 hours. It covers unlimited public transport and gives you free or discounted entry to places like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.

8. Avoid Tourist Traps

Baixa is full of overpriced restaurants trying to pass as “authentic.” For real food, find smaller spots in local neighborhoods. And don’t spend €15 on a tin of sardines (locals would never pay that).

9. Catch the Sunset at a Viewpoint

Lisbon has a bunch of miradouros (viewpoints), and they’re perfect for sunsets. Miradouro da Graça and Senhora do Monte are solid choices. If you’d rather be by the water, grab a drink at Ribeira das Naus.

10. See Alfama & Bairro Alto

Alfama is where you’ll find old-school Lisbon—tiny streets, locals hanging laundry from balconies, and live Fado music. At night, Bairro Alto is where things get loud, with bars and cheap drinks.

11. Take the Ferry for a Different View

A lot of people miss this, but taking the ferry across the river to Cacilhas gives you some of the best views of Lisbon’s skyline. 

Fares are affordable (likely a few euros), and you can grab a meal at riverside spots like Ponto Final. It’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective.