How To Plan The Ultimate Trip To Lisbon

What to eat

Lisbon offers a fresh and dynamic restaurant scene. From Atlantic seafood dishes like Arroz de Marisco and Polvo à Lagareiro to iconic egg custard tarts, the local cuisine is a must-try. Here are four Lisbon restaurants you can’t miss if you want to immerse yourself in the foodie culture.

Encanto by José Avillez

Encanto is a vibrant vegetarian restaurant awarded a Michelin Star in the year of its opening in 2022 and a Green Michelin Star in 2025. Expect a prix fixe haute cuisine experience where vegetables, fruits, and eggs are the stars of the show.

Experience a play of colours, textures, and temperatures with seasonal produce that celebrates the work of local producers.

Where:Largo de São Carlos, 101200-410 Lisbon
website:www.encantojoseavillez.pt

Lumi Rooftop

Combine fine dining with sightseeing at this rooftop bar and restaurant overlooking stunning views of the Tagus River and Lisbon skyline. After a long day of exploring everything Lisbon has to offer, enjoy locally sourced, seasonal dishes like shakshuka, octopus salad, and oxtail croquettes. After dinner, unwind at the bar and terrace with an evening cocktail in hand.

where:Rua de Belém nº 84 a 92, 1300 – 085 Lisboa Portugal
website: www.thelumiares.com

Pastéis de Belém

Sink your teeth into the iconic egg custard tart at Pasteis de Belem, an airy cafe that holds the original recipe of the famous treat. The bakery remains the only authentic producer of Pastéis de Belém, preserving the traditional taste of Portuguese pastry-making.

Expect a rich, buttery tart made of flaky puff pastry and filled with smooth egg custard — a perfect sugary spot to pop into in between sightseeing locations.

where:Rua de Belém nº 84 a 92, 1300 – 085 Lisboa Portugal
website: www.pasteisdebelem.pt

MAAT Museum

Perched on Lisbon’s waterfront in Belém, the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology is for lovers of contemporary architecture. The museum is one of Lisbon’s most striking cultural stops, and the wave-like building practically begs to be photographed, especially at golden hour when locals gather on the rooftop terrace to watch the sun dip over the Tagus River.

where: Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology Av. Brasília, Belém, 1300-598 Lisbon
website: www.maat.pt

Lisbon Sail

Book an idyllic sailboat adventure along the Tagus River to soak up stunning views and sunshine. The daily tour has daily departures taking you on a three-hour river cruise of the city with unparalleled views of the coast. Soak up the sun and the cool breeze from your seat on a sailboat. For a cosier vibe later at night, take the sunset tour with a complimentary drink and curl up whilst watching the sun set. Magical and unmissable.

where: Bom Sucess 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
website: https://lisbonsail.com/

Jardim de Torel

Join the locals for a swim at one of Lisbon’s biggest hidden gems within the Jardim de Torel or walk along the free public paths for a refreshing outing. This garden originated as a farm in the 18th century and is now the perfect destination for panoramic views of Lisbon. Enjoy the fragrant gardens in bloom, illuminated by ambient lighting. Located in central Lisbon and only a few steps away from the bustling nightlife, this garden is a must-see spot for views and Instagrammability.

where: Rua Júlio de Andrade

Guided Tour through Alfama

Alfama is the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon and offers picturesque views and historic architecture. Weave your way through tiled alleyways and hidden courtyards and visit the historic fortress Castelo de São Jorge for sweeping views of the city. Learn more about the history of the fortress by booking an hour-long guided tour and spending the afternoon learning from experts in history, art history, and archaeology. Use the Lisbon Cathedral as a touchpoint to start your meandering through this beautiful part of town.

where: Santa Cruz do Castelo Street 1100-129 Lisbon
Website: www.castelodesaojorge.pt/como-visitar/visitas-guiadas/

Where to stay

The Ivens Hotel

Housed in a beautifully converted 19th-century warehouse in the Chiado district, The Ivens Hotel is Lisbon’s ultimate masterclass in maximalist glamour.

Beyond the stunningly curated bedrooms, the real draw is its status as a vibrant social hub, bringing together a stylish crowd of locals and jet-setters. It is also home to Rocco, an exceptionally photogenic culinary destination featuring a dramatic, candy-striped gastro bar and a sultry Italian restaurant that serves as one of the most coveted dinner reservations in the city.

Where: R. Capelo 5, 1200-224 Lisboa, Portugal
Website: www.theivenshotel.com

Memmo Alfama

Set right in the heart of Alfama—the city’s oldest district—you’re surrounded by a maze of cobbled lanes, faded azulejo tiles, tiny courtyards, and laundry strung between centuries-old buildings. It feels lived-in and authentic in a way that more polished districts can’t quite replicate.

Where: Travessa das Merceeiras, 27 – Alfama Lisbon, 1100-348 Portugal
Website: www.memmohotels.com/alfama/

The Vintage

Moody velvets and incredibly cool decor create the authentic hideaway of the Vintage. The hotel keeps the creative mood of the city flowing through their dramatic pieces and exemplary service. Enjoy breezy palms and luxe fabrics throughout the whole venue, and dive right into their five-star spa at the end of a long day exploring the city. There is truly no better accommodation for those looking to surround themselves in what makes Lisbon, Lisbon.

Enjoy breezy palms and luxe fabrics throughout the whole venue, and dive right into their five-star spa at the end of a long day exploring the city.

where: Travessa das Merceeiras, 27 – Alfama Lisbon, 1100-348 Portugal
website: www.thevintagelisbon.com/