Sightseeing

Lisbon is bursting with unique and colourful charm, so extend your stay and relax in the bohemian atmosphere. We’ve rounded up our top things you should do in Lisbon to get a true flavour of the city’s culture and history.

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An ancient city – a global hub

Belém Tower

Built on the northern bank of the Tagus as part of the estuary defence system, the Tower of Belém is one of the architectural jewels of the reign of Manuel I.

 

The 100-foot tall tower survived the disastrous earthquake of 1755, and has been restored many times. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discover Belém Tower

Alfama

The Alfama is the oldest district of Lisbon, spreading on the slope between São Jorge Castle and the Tejo river.

 

Its medieval alleys and outstanding views make it the ideal district to get lost in, as around every corner or steep climb is a delightful tiny plaza, unique shop, funky café or wonderful viewpoint.

Discover Alfama

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

A highlight of any Lisbon sightseeing tour, the 16th-century Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is one of Portugal’s great landmarks and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also known as the Hieronymite convent, the monastery was commissioned by King Manuel I in 1501.

 

Built to honor explorer Vasco da Gama’s epic 1498 voyage to India, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is as much a shining symbol of the Age of Discovery as it is a house of worship.

Discover Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Elevador de Santa Justa

Elevador de Santa Justa, also called the Carmo Lift, is a truly unique tourist attraction. Situated at the end of Rua de Santa Justa, in the historic centre of Lisbon, the Industrial-Age marvel connects the lower streets of the Baixa district to the Largo do Carmo up a 45m elevation.

 

Traditionally part of the city’s public transport system, now the Elevador de Santa Justa features a viewing platform for tourists from across the world to admire the views over the city.

Discover Elevador de Santa Justa

Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto is the only district in Lisbon that transforms drastically between day and night. It has been dubbed the bohemian district, and is full of luxury shops located on Rua do Norte, as well as endless bars and restaurants.

 

Come night time the cobblestone warren is characterised by its many eclectic night spots. Stop by local favourite Portas Largas for a cocktail, or go dance at chapel-turned-music venue A Capela.

Discover Bairro Alto

Carmo Convent Ruins

The ruins of this gothic church are evocative reminders of the devastation left by the 1755 earthquake. The city was all but destroyed, and the ancient Carmo convent and church lay in ruins, its library of 5,000 books destroyed.

 

Today the ruined arches stand in the middle of the rebuilt city as a reminder of the worst day in Lisbon’s history.

Discover Carmo museum

São Jorge Castle

São Jorge Castle, or Saint George’s Castle, is a historic medieval castle located toward the northwest corner of the city, at its highest point, and offers one of the greatest views of the city.

 

São Jorge Castle was the home of the Kings of Portugal and the Bishop between the 13th and 16th centuries. Phoenician, Greek, and Carthaginian ruins have also been found in the area, making it a historical as well as an archaeologically important site.

Discover São Jorge Castle
Praça do Comércio
Praça do Comércio (Commercial Square)

We look forward to seeing you in Lisbon

Web Summit is returning to Lisbon this November and we can’t wait to meet you.

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