The iconic Tram 28 runs from Prazeres Cemetery (west Lisbon) all the way to São Jorge Castle (east Lisbon), passing through many historic neighborhoods.
You can ride it in both directions and enjoy a beautiful cross-city route.
Best time to ride: in the evening (around 7 p.m. or later). During the day it is usually extremely crowded.
Explore Largo da Graça, the charming Vila Berta, and the viewpoint Miradouro Sophia de Mello Breyner.
Don’t miss the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte — one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Lisbon.
Visit the Church of São Vicente de Fora and the traditional Flea Market (Feira da Ladra) held on Thursday and Saturday mornings.
See the National Pantheon, Miradouro de Santa Luzia, and Miradouro das Portas do Sol.
Other important stops: St. Anthony’s Museum, Largo da Sé, and the Lisbon Cathedral.
Walk along the riverfront at Cais das Colunas and visit the grand Praça do Comércio.
Go up the Rua Augusta Arch for an impressive city view.
Explore Rua Augusta, Praça da Figueira, Rossio Square, and enjoy classic cafés like Confeitaria Nacional or Café Nicola.
See the Dona Maria II Theater, try a Ginginha, and admire the Rossio Train Station.
Don’t miss the Santa Justa Lift, Rua Garrett, Topo Chiado rooftop, Bertrand Bookstore (the world’s oldest), and the historic Café A Brasileira.
Start at Largo Camões, then head to Manteigaria for some of the best custard tarts in the city.
Visit São Domingos Church and ride the scenic Bica Funicular.
Enjoy sunset at Miradouro de Santa Catarina (Adamastor) or Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara.
Great options for drinks: cozy wine bars or trendy cocktail spots.
Visit the impressive Basílica da Estrela.
Explore the Jerónimos Monastery and taste the original custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém.
See the Church of Santa Maria de Belém, the Monument of the Discoveries, and the iconic Belém Tower.
Visit the MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology, the Quake Museum, and enjoy ice cream at Santini.
Ride Tram 28 (or Tram 24 or 25). Tram 28 is the most famous—but it can get very crowded.
Eat snails at Menino Júlio do Caracóis (Olivais), Casa dos Caracóis (Campolide), or Caracóis do Arco (Olivais).
Enjoy an ice cream at Veneziana or Nannarella.
Walk along the riverside at the end of the day: Cais das Colunas to Alcantara.
Watch the sunset from one of the city’s viewpoints (miradouros).
Explore Lisbon’s 7 hills.
Get lost in Mouraria and Alfama, the city’s oldest neighborhoods.
Visit the Oceanarium, one of Europe’s top aquariums.
Visit the National Tile Museum (Museu do Azulejo).
Relax at Pavilhão Chinês, the iconic bar in Príncipe Real.
Eat traditional Portuguese codfish in a classic restaurant.
Explore São Jorge Castle from the inside.
Cross the 25th of April Bridge.
Take a photo at Belém Tower.
Visit the MAAT outdoor area and the National Coach Museum.
Take the ferry to Cacilhas from Cais do Sodré and enjoy a riverside walk.
Have lunch in a local tasca.
Go indoor climbing at Vertigo Climbing or Escalada 25.
Decide who makes the best pastel de nata: Pastéis de Belém, Manteigaria, or neither.
Bargain at the Flea Market (Feira da Ladra).
Spend a weekend afternoon in the Botanical Garden or enjoy Out Jazz in summer.
Visit the Amoreiras 360º Panoramic Viewpoint.
Eat a croissant at Choupana Caffé.
Visit Estufa Fria in Eduardo VII Park.
Have a pão de Deus with an espresso at Padaria Portuguesa.
Eat grilled sardines on the street during the June Festivals.
Have a picnic in the Gulbenkian Garden.
Sail on the Tagus River, preferably at sunrise or sunset.
Experience the nightlife at Lux Frágil, Lisbon’s iconic club.
Bar-hop in Cais do Sodré and Bairro Alto.
Explore Lisbon’s street art.
Have lunch at Docas de Lisboa, by the marina.
Drink an espresso at Martinho da Arcada, like the writer Fernando Pessoa.
Chat with a Portuguese alfarrabista (antique bookseller).
Take a selfie with the Fernando Pessoa statue in Chiado.
Enjoy a Fado night at Tasca do Chico (Bairro Alto).
Go shopping around Chiado.
Visit the Lisbon Story Centre and go up the Arco da Rua Augusta.
Drive a GoCar, the small electric GPS-guided tour car.
End your day at a rooftop bar, watching the city lights.
Lisbon is a city shaped by light, hills, and poetry.
From ground level, it is charming — but from the hilltops, Lisbon becomes unforgettable. The viewpoints (“miradouros”) scattered across its seven hills offer spectacular panoramas of tiled rooftops, the Tagus River, the castle walls, and the endless sky that makes this city shine.
Explore the essential high points where Lisbon reveals its most breathtaking beauty.
Why go: The highest viewpoint in central Lisbon, offering a serene, wide-angle panorama of the entire city.
Feels like: A peaceful escape above the rooftops.
Best time: Sunset.
Why go: Classic postcard scenery overlooking Alfama’s red roofs and the river.
Feels like: Pure Lisbon charm.
Best time: Morning light for photography.
Why go: A terraced garden with views across to the castle, especially beautiful at dusk.
Feels like: A romantic meeting point.
Best time: Golden hour.
Why go: A lively viewpoint with a kiosk café, blending locals, travelers, and stunning views.
Feels like: The social hilltop of the city.
Best time: Late afternoon.
Why go: A peaceful garden viewpoint hidden near the castle walls.
Feels like: A secret lookout.
Best time: Late morning or quiet afternoons.
Why go: From inside the castle, you get one of the most iconic panoramas of Lisbon’s skyline and the river.
Feels like: Time traveling with a view.
Best time: Early morning to avoid crowds.
Why go: A 360° view from Lisbon’s “urban forest.”
Feels like: A wild, elevated escape above the city.
Best time: Clear days for long-distance views.
Why go: From the top of the famous arch, you overlook Praça do Comércio, the river, and the downtown grid.
Feels like: Standing above Lisbon’s grand entrance.
Best time: Sunset reflections on the Tagus.
Why go: A modern rooftop offering a complete 360° city panorama.
Feels like: Lisbon at your feet.
Best time: Midday, when visibility is sharp.
Why go: A glass platform suspended above the river, aligned with the bridge’s height.
Feels like: Floating over the Tagus.
Best time: Late afternoon for warm light.
Lisbon has a vibrant craft scene, blending traditional Portuguese techniques with contemporary design. Below you’ll find some of the best places in the city to discover handmade ceramics, local crafts, independent artists, and unique souvenirs.
📍 Largo do Intendente Pina Manique 23
A beautifully curated shop featuring classic Portuguese brands, vintage packaging, soaps, textiles, notebooks, cork items, and artisan pieces. Perfect for quality souvenirs with history.
📍 Rua Capelo 16
Stylish and minimalist ceramics made in Portugal. Ideal for modern tableware lovers looking for clean, elegant designs.
📍 Rua da Madalena 87
A traditional craft store offering regional handicrafts, filigree, cork products, ceramics, and hand-painted items from all over Portugal.
📍 Rua Poiais de São Bento 57
An independent design shop and gallery promoting Portuguese artists. Expect prints, handmade objects, illustration, ceramics and contemporary design pieces.
📍 Rua de São Vicente 31
Hand-painted ceramics inspired by Portuguese motifs, tiles, and traditional crafts. A great stop when exploring Alfama.
📍 Rua de São Vicente 16D
A cozy artisan studio offering handmade ceramics and small decorative objects. Sometimes hosts workshops for visitors.
📍 Rua Ilha Terceira 42D
A modern ceramic atelier where independent artists create original pieces and small-batch collections. Often sells one-of-a-kind items.
Historic ceramic tile and tableware brand producing hand-painted pieces since 1741.
A design store specializing in cork products (bags, accessories, notebooks) exclusively made in Portugal.
Independent boutique with unique Portuguese handicrafts, ceramics, jewelry, hand-made pieces and decor items.
Perfect for browsing contemporary local brands, printmakers, illustrators, eco-design, and handmade crafts.
A concept store highlighting Portuguese designers, ceramics, home goods and illustration.
Look for “Made in Portugal” labels — many shops mix local and imported items.
Ask if the artist is local — most stores proudly share their creators’ stories.
Ceramics travel well, but ask for double wrapping and bubble protection.
Cork items are lightweight and excellent souvenirs.
Small shops often close for lunch, especially in Alfama and São Bento.
Most ateliers accept MB Way and card payments, but small tascas nearby may not.
Arroz de Tamboril — Monkfish rice
Caldeirada de Peixe — Fish stew
Sardinha Assada (verão) — Roasted sardines (summer season)
Sopa de Peixe à Moda Antiga — Old-fashioned fish soup
Arroz de Amêijoas à Portuguesa — Portuguese-style clam rice
Arroz de Marisco — Seafood rice
Feijoada de Chocos à Moda do Algarve — Algarve-style cuttlefish bean stew
Arroz de Polvo Malandrinho — Creamy octopus rice
Salada de Polvo — Octopus salad
Lulas Recheadas à Algarvia — Algarvian-style stuffed squid
Pescada à Gomes de Sá — Gomes de Sá-style hake
Polvo à Lagareiro — Roast octopus with olive oil and garlic
Açorda de Bacalhau à Alentejana — Alentejo-style cod bread stew
Bacalhau à Brás — Shredded cod with eggs and potatoes
Bacalhau com Natas — Codfish gratin with cream
Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá — Classic cod casserole
Bacalhau Espiritual — “Spiritual” cod gratin
Bacalhau à Lagareiro — Roast cod with olive oil and garlic
Bacalhau à Zé do Pipo — Cod with puréed potatoes and mayonnaise
Bacalhau à Minhota — Minho-style cod
Bacalhau Assado — Roasted cod
Bacalhau Cozido — Boiled cod
Pastéis de Bacalhau — Cod fritters
Arroz de Cabidela — Chicken and blood rice
Carne de Cabra Chanfana — Slow-cooked goat in red wine
Cozido à Portuguesa — Traditional Portuguese stew
Bitoque— Steak with fries and fried egg
Ensopado de Borrego — Lamb stew
Feijoada à Portuguesa — Meat and bean stew
Leitão — Roasted suckling pig
Migas com Entrecosto / Migas com Carne de Porco / Migas à Alentejana — Migas with spare ribs / with pork / Alentejo-style
Posta de Vitela — Veal steak
Posta Mirandesa — Mirandese beef steak
Carne de Porco à Alentejana — Pork with clams, Alentejo-style
Borrego Assado no Forno — Oven-roasted lamb
Rojões à Minhota — Minho-style pork chunks
Lombo de Porco Assado no Forno — Oven-roasted pork loin
Cabrito Assado no Forno — Oven-roasted goat
Frango à Guia — Spicy grilled chicken, Algarve-style
Alheira — Smoked sausage (traditional Portuguese)
Arroz de Pato — Duck rice
Francesinha — Porto-style sandwich with meat, cheese, and spicy sauce
Pastel de Nata / Pastel de Belém
Bola de Berlim — Custard-filled doughnut
Ovos Moles de Aveiro
Pão de Ló com ovos— Traditional sponge cake with eggs cream
Torta de Azeitão
Torta de Laranja — Orange roll
Tarte de Amêndoa — Almond tart
Salame de Chocolate — Chocolate salami
Travesseiro de Sintra
Queijada de Sintra
Pastel de Feijão — Bean tart
Guardanapo — Custard-filled folded sponge
Rabanada — Portuguese French toast
Arroz Doce — Rice pudding
Molotof — Egg white pudding
Mousse de Chocolate
Pudim de Ovos — Egg pudding
Visiting Lisbon with children means an even more fun and memorable trip. If you’re wondering how to move around the city without walking too much, Lisbon offers a wide variety of public transport options perfect for families: iconic trams (28, 25, 15), the subway, trains, ferries.
You can also try the popular Hop-on Hop-off buses, ideal for sightseeing while sitting on the open-air upper deck. Kids love it — and it saves a lot of walking!
An excellent introduction to the city's history. This interactive museum takes visitors from Lisbon’s origins through its greatest events, including a dramatic immersion into the 1755 earthquake. You’ll even see a caravel up close.
Perfect after the visit: explore Terreiro do Paço, Rua Augusta Arch, Cais das Colunas, and stroll toward Alfama or Chiado.
Website: lisboastorycentre.pt
Address: Terreiro do Paço, 78–81
Prices (2022): €6.50 adults • €3 children (6–15) • free under 5
Hours: daily, 10:00–20:00
Included in Lisboa Card
Kids absolutely love tuk-tuks — especially in hilly Lisbon! They’re perfect for reaching the main viewpoints without climbing. A fun, easy way to tour Alfama, Graça, and other steep areas.
Price: from €60 per tuk-tuk (2022)
Built in the 11th century by the Moors, the Castle offers towers, walls to explore, and one of the best views in the city. Be mindful of younger children: there are staircases without handrails.
Website: castelodesaojorge.pt
Address: R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129
Price (2022): €10 adults • free under 11
Hours:
Summer: 10:00–20:00
Winter: 9:00–18:00
Jardim da Estrela – shaded, peaceful, playground included.
Parque Eduardo VII – includes the magical Estufa Fria greenhouse.
Botanical Garden of Lisbon – lush and calm.
Gulbenkian Garden – free, beautiful lakes, perfect for picnics.
A modern riverside district full of kid-friendly attractions:
Beautiful views along the river.
Website: telecabinelisboa.pt
Price (2022): €5.50 kids (4–12) • €8 adults (round trip)
A hands-on science museum — kids adore it. They can try molecular cuisine, ride an aerial bicycle, simulate space missions, and explore physics experiments.
One of the best aquariums in Europe, with species from all oceans.
Website: oceanario.pt
Price (2022): €19 adults • €10 kids (4–12) • free under 3
Hours: 10:00–20:00 (shorter in winter)
A few km away, in the riverside area, Vertigo offers safe climbing for kids, with a 4.8 m wall and bouldering mats.
Belém is perfect for families, combining open riverfront spaces with great museums.
Tropical Botanical Garden
Jerónimos Monastery (outside admiring recommended with kids)
National Coach Museum – kids love the old carriages, coaches, and early cars
Planetarium of Lisbon – astronomy shows, workshops, and night sessions
Pastéis de Belém – essential stop for traditional pastries
Alice in Magical Garden – a nighttime light show inside the Tropical Garden, inspired by Alice in Wonderland.
Half-bus, half-boat! Kids are amazed when it leaves the streets and dives into the river. Fun guide, songs, and sightseeing.
Website: hippotrip.com
Address: Doca de Santo Amaro
Price (2022): €16 kids (2–16) • €28 adults
Note: Check availability — schedules may change seasonally.
A glass elevator lifts you to the level of the 25 de Abril Bridge cars — only for the brave! Stunning 360º views over Lisbon.
In the Jamor sports complex (nearby), the Adventure Park offers rope bridges, tunnels, and a 200 m zipline. Various levels for different ages.
A classic for families: giraffes, elephants, big cats… plus a cable car ride over the park.
Next to the Zoo. A hands-on adventure through Portuguese history: storm a castle, train archery, face sea monsters, and rebuild Lisbon after the 1755 earthquake.
KidZania: a mini-city where kids try more than 60 professions (pilot, doctor, baker…). They earn and spend kidZos, the park’s currency.
Also includes escape rooms, VR games, cinema, and themed restaurants.
Trampolines, Sky Rider, Clip ‘N Climb, Ninja Warrior course — hours of fun.
An enchanting destination for families:
Sintra town
Moorish Castle
Quinta da Regaleira
Pena Palace
Sintra Summer Tram
Use tuk-tuks, public transport or taxis to move easily between attractions.
From Lisbon to Cascais/Guincho: beautiful beaches, natural swimming pools, wide areas to run and play, and perfect sea views.
Discover Lisbon from a fresh perspective—take your meal outdoors and enjoy the city’s green gems! From serene ponds to leafy corners, Lisbon’s gardens offer the perfect escape, right in the heart of the city.
Gulbenkian Museum Garden – One of my favorite spots for a picnic! Stroll among the beautifully landscaped paths, watch ducks glide across the pond, and explore over 230 species of flora and birds. Stop by the museum cafés for traditional Portuguese ice cream or a quick snack before settling down on the grass.
Jardim da Estrela – A classic Lisbon favorite. Grab a treat at Gengibre da Estrela Kiosk, Quiosque da Estrela, or the charming garden library kiosk, and enjoy it on a bench or the lush lawns. Banana Café even offers picnic baskets with blankets—perfect for a family outing!
Eduardo VII Park – Stretch out on the expansive lawns of Lisbon’s largest central park. Bring your favorite picnic treats and soak in panoramic city views—nature meets skyline!
Botanical Garden of the University of Lisbon – Immerse yourself in plant diversity while enjoying a peaceful picnic surrounded by exotic species.
Parque da Quinta das Conchas e dos Lilases – Ideal for active picnics with the kids. Open lawns, shaded areas, and trails make this park perfect for a family afternoon.
Príncipe Real Garden – A stylish city garden where locals stroll and relax. Bring a picnic and enjoy this leafy oasis in one of Lisbon’s trendiest neighborhoods.
Santa Clara Garden (“Clara Clara”) – A hidden gem with the delightful Clara Clara Kiosk, serving drinks, crepes, cakes, and light snacks. Perfect for a relaxed family or couple picnic.
Belém Riverside Gardens – Enjoy stunning river views while relaxing on the grass. Cafés nearby provide everything you need for a laid-back picnic by the Tagus.
Lisbon’s gardens aren’t just green spaces—they’re lively hubs where kids can explore, couples can unwind, and families can connect. Grab your blanket, a few snacks, and let the city’s beauty set the scene for an unforgettable picnic experience!
Castelo de São Jorge – Alfama | Medieval castle with panoramic city views. Often hosts traditional Fado concerts in nearby restaurants.
Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral) – Alfama | Oldest church in Lisbon; street musicians frequently play Fado and guitar nearby.
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos – Belém | Stunning monastery and UNESCO site.
Torre de Belém – Belém | Iconic riverfront tower.
Padrão dos Descobrimentos – Belém | Monument celebrating Portugal’s explorers.
Rua Augusta Arch – Baixa | Panoramic view of the city center; occasional street performers and live music on the square.
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte – Graça | Best sunrise & city view; sometimes local guitarists and street performers.
Miradouro de Santa Catarina – Bairro Alto | Sunset and city panorama with live Fado or acoustic music on weekends.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara – Bairro Alto | Panoramic view over downtown; nearby cafés host live jazz or Fado nights.
Miradouro das Portas do Sol – Alfama | Famous Alfama viewpoint; street Fado singers frequently perform.
Miradouro da Graça – Graça | Charming garden & city view; sometimes acoustic music performances.
360º Viewpoint at Amoreiras Mall – Amoreiras | Panoramic view from shopping mall.
Lisboa Story Centre – Terreiro do Paço | Interactive history museum.
MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology – Belém | Contemporary art museum; sometimes hosts live music events in the courtyard.
Museu Nacional dos Coches – Belém | Royal carriages from several eras.
Museu da Farmácia – Baixa | Old apothecary collections.
Museu do Azulejo – Santa Apolónia | History of Portuguese tiles.
Oceanário de Lisboa – Parque das Nações | One of Europe’s largest aquariums.
Pavilhão do Conhecimento (Science Museum) – Parque das Nações | Hands-on science exhibits for children.
Tram 28, 25, 15 – Citywide | Iconic tram tours through historic neighborhoods; occasional musicians playing on the tram.
TukTuk Tours – Alfama, Bairro Alto | Fun ride through hills & viewpoints.
Hippotrip Amphibious Bus – Alcântara | Land and river sightseeing tour.
Vertigo Indoor Climbing – Parque das Nações | Indoor climbing suitable for kids and adults.
Lisbon Zoo & Cable Car – Sete Rios | Family-friendly animal encounters.
KidZania – Amadora | Role-playing city for children.
JampYard – Carnaxide | Trampolines, climbing, and Ninja Warrior-style activities.
Gulbenkian Museum Garden – Central Lisbon | Ducks, flora, coffee kiosks; sometimes live acoustic music in the garden.
Jardim da Estrela – Estrela | Classic park with quiosques (Gengibre da Estrela, Quiosque da Estrela); live music on weekends.
Parque Eduardo VII – Marquês de Pombal | Panoramic lawns and greenhouse; occasional outdoor concerts and music events.
Botanical Garden of Lisbon – Príncipe Real | Quiet green escape.
Parque da Quinta das Conchas e dos Lilases – Lumiar | Large lawns for family play.
Príncipe Real Garden – Príncipe Real | Trendy urban garden with cafés; live jazz or acoustic music in summer.
Santa Clara Garden (Clara Clara) – Santa Clara | Kiosk, shaded picnic areas, sometimes live music events.
Belém Riverside Gardens – Belém | Walkways along the Tagus River; occasional Fado and classical concerts.
Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market) – Cais do Sodré | Gourmet food and local specialties; live bands and DJs on weekends.
LX Factory – Alcântara | Trendy shops, street art, cafés; frequent live music shows.
Feira da Ladra – Alfama | Famous flea market for vintage and local treasures; street performers often play traditional Portuguese music.
A Vida Portuguesa – Intendente | Traditional Portuguese products and souvenirs.
Cais do Sodré & Docas de Lisboa – Riverfront dining and boat trips; bars and restaurants with live Fado, jazz, and contemporary music.
Sail the Tagus – From Cais do Sodré or Belém | Sunset or daytime river cruise; some boats offer live music experiences.
Cacilhas – Across the river ferry ride | Scenic walking and seafood lunch options; occasional live music in riverside cafés.
Bairro Alto & Cais do Sodré – Bar hopping, Fado experiences.
Lux Frágil – Nightclub | Iconic Lisbon nightlife spot with live DJs and performances.
Tasca do Chico – Bairro Alto | Traditional Fado music.
Clube de Fado – Alfama | Renowned venue for live Fado in an intimate setting.
Café Luso – Bairro Alto | Historic restaurant with live Fado nightly.
7 Hills city and a lot of rooftops to watch the city!! LISBON MAP: ROOFTOPS
Tasca is nickname for the simple and Familiar Portuguese Restaurant: eat Authentic. LISBON MAP: FAVORITE TASCAS
This city is starting to have a plenty Chefs and decorators performing in beautiful new restaurants, or classic ones!! Experiences that you should try it! LISBON MAP: CHEF RESTAURANTS
Fado is a Portuguese Music Genre. Acoustic, a singer, a Portuguese Guitar and a Bass. The Portuguese guitar solo melodies with the same importance as the voice lead. LISBON MAP: FADO MUSIC HOUSES
Fish is one of the fundamental gastronomy of Mediterrean area. You should take a look to the places where I can find it here. LISBON MAP: FISH RESTAURANTS
I do love to have a Brunch!! Who doesn't??? LISBON MAP: BRUNCH TIME
Sweet as my feeling, my Day, My Wish!! Eggs, sugar and Butter rules the Portuguese traditional Sweets. LISBON MAP: SWEETS
There are terrific Vegan Restaurants here! LISBON MAP: VEGANISH
Climb aboard a Private and comfortable yacht for a sailing tour along the Tagus river, going direction Lisbon centre, Praça do Comércio & its Arch, Castle St George and Ruins of Carmo, passing under 25th April Bridge (looks like San Francisco bridge), returns to Belem city side, with the Christ King statue (looks like Rio Janeiro's one, but smaller), Belem Monument are about Church presence and other centuries Navigators History...This is "right" perspective to have about all of these!! Admire it drinking a good wine and Home Made Portuguese tapas. To have a skipper and be preparing something special in the boat Kitchen...it is special!
Just 35 minutes from Lisbon by train, along the Tagus River and the Atlantic coast, Cascais is a charming seaside town that has been a favorite summer retreat for royalty and travelers alike. Walking through its streets, you’ll discover historic forts, cultural museums, lush gardens, and stunning beaches—all within easy reach.
Cascais is rich in history and culture. Don’t miss these highlights:
Santa Maria House & Lighthouse – A historic home with breathtaking ocean views.
Counts of Castro Guimarães Museum – A mix of art, history, and architecture.
São Jorge de Oitavos Fort – Explore the coastal fort and enjoy panoramic views.
House of Stories – Paula Rego – Celebrate Portugal’s iconic contemporary artist.
King D. Carlos Sea Museum – Interactive exhibits about Portugal’s maritime history.
Cascais Citadel – A historic fortress hosting cultural events.
Cascais Cultural Center – Exhibitions, concerts, and more.
Village Museum – Experience traditional Portuguese rural life.
Portuguese Music Museum – Casa Verdades de Faria – Dedicated to national music heritage.
Mother Church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção – A beautiful historic landmark in the town center.
Take a break and enjoy the green spaces of Cascais:
Marechal Carmona Park – Perfect for picnics and walks, with small kiosks offering snacks and drinks.
Quinta do Pisão – Scenic gardens and panoramic viewpoints, ideal for a packed lunch.
Cascais is surrounded by stunning beaches, each with its own charm:
Guincho Beach – Famous for surfing and strong Atlantic waves.
Tamariz Beach – Family-friendly, right next to the promenade.
Avencas Beach – A hidden gem for quiet afternoons.
Carcavelos Beach – Popular for surfers and sunbathers alike.
Taste the best of Portuguese cuisine along the coast:
Furnas do Guincho – Michelin-style seafood with ocean views.
Mar do Inferno – Fresh fish and shellfish on a cliffside terrace.
Restaurante Baía – Traditional Portuguese dishes overlooking the bay.
Hífen – Cascais Marina – Modern Mediterranean cuisine with cocktails and terrace dining.
Pastelaria Garrett – Perfect spot for coffee and traditional pastries.
Cascais offers something for everyone:
Estoril-Cascais Promenade – Cycle or walk along this scenic coastal route.
Surfing Lessons at Guincho Beach – Fun for beginners and advanced surfers alike.
Estoril Casino & Gardens – Explore glamorous gardens and cultural events.
Cresmina Dune Interpretation Center – Learn about Portugal’s unique dune ecosystems.
Pack a picnic for Marechal Carmona Park or Quinta do Pisão for a relaxed lunch.
Combine a cultural walk with beach time—visit museums first, then enjoy Guincho or Tamariz Beach.
Weekdays are ideal for visiting Cascais to avoid weekend crowds.
Just 35 minutes from Lisbon, Sintra is easily reachable by train from Rossio Station. Once you arrive, the Sintra Tourist Office, located near the train station, can provide detailed information on public bus schedules, as well as opening hours for the town’s museums, palaces, castles, and gardens.
The historic center of Sintra is very walkable, with charming streets, breathtaking viewpoints, traditional pastries (don’t miss Piriquita and the famous Queijadas de Sintra), small museums, beautiful gardens, local shops, restaurants, and wine tasting experiences.
To reach the top of the hill and the Palácio da Pena, you can take public buses, a Tuk Tuk (negotiate your tour with the driver), Uber, or Bolt, which are all affordable options in the area. Tickets for Pena Palace should be booked in advance, and guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and details of this stunning landmark. The palace is surrounded by expansive gardens, which can take hours to explore—plan for a full day if you want to see everything.
Other must-visit sites include the mystical Quinta da Regaleira, the romantic Palácio de Monserrate, and for something unique, take the historic tram line to Praia das Maçãs. This scenic ride along Sintra’s lush landscapes is a memorable experience for all ages.
Sintra is a magical place where history, nature, and culture blend perfectly—ideal for a day trip or even a weekend escape from Lisbon.
From Lisbon to Lagos are 4hours by bus or by train - Gare Oriente (Lisboa) until Lagos.
About Lagos...
The beaches of Lagos –the most awarded are Praia da Dona Ana, followed by Praia do Camilo and Ponta da Piedade.
In fact, the entire stretch of just over 2 km in this area is remembered in the lists of the best beaches in Portugal and also in the world.
Places like Discovery Avenue; Lagos Marina; Church of Santa Maria de Lagos and Praça do Infante; Gil Eanes Square; Ponta da Bandeira Fort and Lagos Castle.
Sports like WakeBoard and others are fabulous entertainments.
As an area that has always lived on fishing, it is an excellent place to taste fish and seafood. Taska do Kiko, Casinha do Petisco, Arte restaurante or Calhou are good options.
From Lisbon to Porto are 3,5 hours by train - Santa Apolónia (Lisboa) until Campanhã (Oporto).
About Porto...
My suggestion of what to do in 6 hours in Porto - as an average of round-trip time from Lisbon - is to start by taking the metro to Jardim do Morro station. By the way, this station is in Vila Nova de Gaia (another city, but next to Porto), on the other side of the Douro River. This is where almost all the Port wine cellars are located.
To get to this station, the metro passes through Ponte D. Luís I. The view is worth it!!! There you have some viewpoints over the river, the bridge, the Ribeira region,… it's a real postcard.
Then, use your geographic sense (that's where the danger lies) and start descending towards the river's edge. As here, scattered throughout the region there are several Port wine cellars, almost all of which are open to visitors.
Once this part is over, cross the bridge on foot and, on the other side, you will be in the so-called Ribeira, an old and almost folkloric part of the city. Some short or long boat trips through Foz do Douro depart from this region. I think it might be a good choice but I am afraid you'll do not have enough time to go inside one. Choose what you'll prefer to do.
From Ribeira you can still walk, go to Palácio da Bolsa, Sé Cathedral, Torre dos Clérigos, Library Lello (where part of one of the Harry Potter movies was filmed) and then Avenida dos Aliados, which is the heart of the city. This whole region is ancient. You will pass several historic buildings.
Departure: Porto
1. Aveiro (about 1h from Porto)
• Known as the “Venice of Portugal” with its canals and colorful moliceiro boats.
• Suggestion: A short walk through the historic center and try the famous ovos moles (traditional sweets).
2. Costa Nova (15 min from Aveiro)
• A picturesque seaside village famous for its striped houses along the beachfront.
• Suggestion: Stroll along the promenade, enjoy the beach views, and take photos of the colorful houses.
3. Bairrada Region (between Aveiro and Coimbra)
• Famous for its gastronomy and wines.
• Suggestion: If you enjoy pork, stop for lunch here — the local specialty is leitão da Bairrada (suckling pig), often paired with sparkling wine.
4. Coimbra (about 30–40 min from Bairrada / 2h from Porto)
• A vibrant university city full of history.
• Suggestion: Visit the University of Coimbra and the Joanina Library (UNESCO site), or simply enjoy a stroll through the downtown area.
5. Fátima (about 1h from Coimbra / 2h from Lisbon)
• A major pilgrimage and spiritual center.
• Suggestion: Stop by the Sanctuary of Fátima for a peaceful break.
6. Óbidos (about 1h20 from Fátima / 1h from Lisbon)
• A charming medieval walled town.
• Suggestion: Walk along the walls, explore the cobblestone streets, and taste the local ginjinha de Óbidos (cherry liqueur).
7. Buddha Eden Garden (near Bombarral, 20 min from Óbidos)
• Europe’s largest oriental garden, filled with giant Buddhas, terracotta statues, and contemporary sculptures.
• Suggestion: Stroll through the gardens, admire the outdoor art, and don’t miss the excellent wine shop on site, offering a wide range of local wines.
Arrival: Lisbon