Visiting Lisbon during the day or during the night?
It is common sense that the time of the day changes the things you can do in a city, but visiting Lisbon is a must at any time of the day. By the way, are you more a day or night kind of person? We have tips for both day or night people and even though we have multiple ones, there is one that we think it’s mandatory for you to take note because it will give you the opportunity to see multiple important places of the city in a few hours.
Find out more below.
10 things to do in Lisbon during the day:
- Visit the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery
- Take a stroll through the historic Alfama district
- Go to the top of the Castelo de São Jorge
- Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
- Take a trip to the Lisbon Oceanarium
- Go on an adventure with Explorial
- Visit the National Tile Museum
- Go to the Lisbon Zoo
- Visit the Time Out Market
- Go to the Fado Museum
1. Visit the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery
Belém Tower is a cultural icon and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lisbon, Portugal. It is a fortified tower located on the northern bank of the Tagus River, in the neighborhood of Belém. The tower was built in the early 16th century as a defensive structure to protect the city of Lisbon from naval attacks. It was also used as a ceremonial gateway for ships arriving in Lisbon.
The tower is an excellent example of Manueline architecture, a style that combines Gothic and Renaissance elements with motifs and symbols inspired by the Age of Discoveries. The tower is adorned with intricate stone carvings and ornamental details, such as rope, anchors, and crosses, which are representative of the Portuguese maritime history.
Inside the tower, visitors can explore the various rooms and chambers, which have been converted into a museum. The museum displays various artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the tower and its role in the history of Lisbon. There is also an observation deck on the top floor, from where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the river.
Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important symbols of the Portuguese Age of Discoveries. It is also a popular venue for cultural events, such as concerts and exhibitions. The tower is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season.
The Jerónimos Monastery, also known as the Hieronymites Monastery, is a monumental monastery located in the neighborhood of Belém, Lisbon, Portugal. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Lisbon.
The monastery was founded in the early 16th century by King Manuel I of Portugal as a tribute to Vasco da Gama and the Portuguese Age of Discoveries. It was built in the Manueline style, a unique architectural style that combines Gothic and Renaissance elements with motifs and symbols inspired by the Portuguese maritime history. The monastery is adorned with intricate stone carvings, ornate details, and symbolic elements, such as rope, anchors, and crosses.
Inside the monastery, visitors can explore the various chapels, cloisters, and other spaces, which have been converted into a museum. The museum displays various artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the monastery and its role in the history of Portugal. There is also an observation deck on the top floor, from where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the river.
The Jerónimos Monastery is a popular venue for cultural events, such as concerts and exhibitions. It is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season.
2. Take a stroll through the historic Alfama district
Alfama is a historic neighborhood in Lisbon, Portugal, known for its narrow streets, steep slopes, and colorful houses. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city and has a rich history and culture.
It’s located on a hill overlooking the city and the river, and it is known for its picturesque views and charming atmosphere. The neighborhood is known for its Fado music, a traditional Portuguese musical genre that originated in the 19th century and is characterized by its melancholic and emotional lyrics. There are many Fado houses and restaurants there where visitors can enjoy live Fado performances and traditional Portuguese cuisine.
This place is also home to several historical landmarks, such as the São Jorge Castle, a medieval castle that dates back to the 11th century, and the Lisbon Cathedral, a Romanesque-style cathedral that was built in the 12th century. The neighborhood is also home to the National Pantheon, a former church that was converted into a pantheon to honor the country’s greatest figures.
Alfama is a lively neighborhood with a vibrant atmosphere and a rich cultural heritage. It is a popular destination for tourists and a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the history and culture of Lisbon.
3. Go to the top of the Castelo de São Jorge
Castelo de São Jorge is a medieval castle located in the historic neighborhood of Alfama, Lisbon, Portugal. It is a cultural icon and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lisbon.
The castle was built in the 11th century by the Moors, who ruled the region at the time. It was later conquered by the Christian forces and became an important defensive structure for the city. It was later used as a royal palace and served as the residence of the Portuguese kings.
Today, the castle is open to the public and visitors can explore its various chambers, halls, and gardens. The castle is home to a museum that displays various artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the castle and its role in the history of Lisbon. There is also an observation deck on the top floor, from where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the river.
Castelo de São Jorge is a popular venue for cultural events, such as concerts and exhibitions. It is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season. The castle is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the history and culture of Lisbon.
4. Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is an art museum located in Lisbon, Portugal. It is one of the most visited museums in the country and is known for its extensive collection of art, ranging from ancient to modern times.
The museum was founded in the early 20th century by Calouste Gulbenkian, a wealthy Armenian businessman and philanthropist. He bequeathed his extensive art collection to the museum upon his death. The collection includes a wide variety of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, and manuscripts.
The museum is divided into two main sections: the Modern Art Centre and the Ancient Art Centre. The Modern Art Centre displays a collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. The Ancient Art Centre displays a collection of ancient art, including Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artifacts.
The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is a popular destination for art lovers and visitors interested in exploring the history and culture of Lisbon. It is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season.
5. Take a trip to the Lisbon Oceanarium
The Lisbon Oceanarium is an aquarium located in the Parque das Nações neighborhood of Lisbon, Portugal. It is one of the largest aquariums in Europe and is home to a wide variety of marine life, including fish, mammals, birds, and reptiles.
The oceanarium is divided into four main areas: the Atlantic, the Pacific, the Indian, and the Antarctic. Each area is home to a variety of marine life native to the corresponding region. Visitors can explore the various habitats and learn about the different species that live there. The oceanarium also has a number of interactive exhibits and educational programs, such as feedings and demonstrations, which allow visitors to learn more about the marine life and the environment.
The Lisbon Oceanarium is a popular destination for families and visitors interested in marine life and the environment. It is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season. The oceanarium is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the wonders of the ocean and learning about the important role that marine life plays in the world.
6. Go on an adventure with Explorial
A pretty smart and on a budget idea to help you explore the city. Explorial is an interactive and challenging game in which the objective is to collect as many points as possible as a group. You explore the city on foot and get points for solving different types of tasks. Whether you know your way around the city or are just visiting, with Explorial you are guaranteed to get to know the city in a new way.
In Lisbon you have two trails/experiences, as we show you below.
The first one is Lisboa (Chiado & Baixa Districts), which consists of exploring and discovering the areas of Chiado e Baixa.
The second one is Lisbon (Belém District) and this trail allows you to explore and enjoy the area of Belém, which is also a pretty Instagramable place!
7. Visit the National Tile Museum
The National Tile Museum is a museum located in Lisbon, Portugal, dedicated to the history and art of tiles. It is housed in the Convent of Madre de Deus, a former convent that was built in the early 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The museum displays a collection of tiles from the 15th to the 20th centuries, representing a wide range of styles and techniques. The tiles are arranged chronologically and according to their region of origin, allowing visitors to trace the evolution of tile-making in Portugal and around the world. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits and educational programs, such as workshops and demonstrations, which allow visitors to learn more about the history and art of tiles.
The National Tile Museum is a popular destination for art and history enthusiasts and visitors interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Lisbon. It is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season. The museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the history and art of tiles and the important role that they play in the cultural identity of Portugal.
8. Go to the Lisbon Zoo
The Lisbon Zoo is a zoological park located in Lisbon, Portugal. It is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and is home to a wide variety of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
The Lisbon Zoo is divided into several areas, each dedicated to a different group of animals. Visitors can explore the various habitats and learn about the different species that live there. The zoo also has a number of interactive exhibits and educational programs, such as feedings and demonstrations, which allow visitors to learn more about the animals and the environment.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the Lisbon Zoo also has a number of recreational facilities, such as playgrounds, restaurants, and gift shops. It is a popular destination for families and visitors of all ages and is open to the public year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season. The Lisbon Zoo is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the world of animals and learning about their important role in the environment.
9. Visit the Time-Out Market
The Time Out Market is a food market located in Lisbon, Portugal. It is a popular destination for foodies and visitors looking to try a variety of local and international cuisines.
The Time Out Market is housed in a historic building in the center of Lisbon and is home to a number of food stalls and restaurants offering a wide range of culinary options. Visitors can choose from a variety of dishes, ranging from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international flavors. The market also has a number of bars and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.
In addition to its food offerings, the Time Out Market also hosts a number of cultural events, such as live music, film screenings, and cooking demonstrations. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and is open to the public year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season. The Time Out Market is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the diverse culinary scene of Lisbon.
10. Go to the Fado Museum
The Fado Museum is a museum located in Lisbon, Portugal, dedicated to the history and culture of Fado, a traditional Portuguese musical genre characterized by its melancholic and emotional lyrics. It is one of the most visited museums in Lisbon and is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the history and culture of Fado.
The museum is housed in a historic building in the heart of the city and displays a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Fado and its evolution over time. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits and educational programs, such as workshops and demonstrations, which allow visitors to learn more about the history and culture of Fado.
In addition to its exhibits, the Fado Museum also hosts a number of cultural events, such as concerts, exhibitions, and film screenings. It is a popular destination for music enthusiasts and visitors interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Lisbon. The Fado Museum is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season.
10 things to do in Lisbon during the night:
- Visit Bairro Alto
- Attend a traditional fado music performance at a local restaurant or bar
- Take a stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the views of the city from the 25 de Abril Bridge
- Visit the LX Factory
- Check out the Night Market at Time Out Market Lisboa
- Catch a show at the Coliseum
- Head to the top of Miradouro de Santa Catarina or the Miradouro da Graça
- Go to the Oceanarium
- Go on a ghost tour of the city
- Visit the Casa Independente
1. Visit Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is a historic neighborhood in Lisbon, Portugal, known for its vibrant nightlife. It is located in the center of the city and is home to a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late into the night.
Bairro Alto is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse entertainment options. The neighborhood is home to a number of traditional Fado houses, where visitors can enjoy live Fado performances and traditional Portuguese cuisine. It is also home to a number of clubs and bars that play a variety of music, ranging from electronic to jazz to rock.
In addition to its entertainment options, Bairro Alto is also home to a number of cultural landmarks, such as the Church of São Roque, a Baroque-style church that is home to one of the largest collections of gold and silver in the world, and the Chiado Museum, a museum dedicated to Portuguese contemporary art.
Bairro Alto is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the vibrant nightlife of Lisbon and explore its rich cultural heritage.
2. Attend a traditional fado music performance at a local restaurant or bar
Fado is a traditional Portuguese musical genre characterized by its melancholic and emotional lyrics. It is an integral part of the Portuguese culture and is widely recognized as a symbol of the country.
Fado performances are typically held in specialized venues called Fado houses, which are scattered throughout the city of Lisbon. These venues range in size and style, from small, intimate spaces to larger, more formal venues.
During a traditional Fado performance, a singer (the fadista) is accompanied by one or two musicians playing the Portuguese guitar (the guitarra portuguesa). The fadista sings while the musicians play, and the lyrics of the songs often tell stories of love, loss, and longing.
Fado performances are an important part of the cultural scene in Lisbon and are a must-experience for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the city. They are typically held in the evenings and last for about an hour. The atmosphere is typically intimate and subdued, and the audience is expected to listen attentively and show respect for the performers.
3. Take a stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the views of the city from the 25 de Abril Bridge
The 25 de Abril Bridge is a suspension bridge located in Lisbon, Portugal, that spans the Tagus River. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is a popular tourist destination.
At night, the 25 de Abril Bridge is illuminated with colorful lights that create a spectacular visual effect. The bridge is a popular spot for photography and offers breathtaking views of the city and the river. It is also a popular spot for locals and tourists to gather and enjoy the evening atmosphere.
In addition to its visual appeal, the 25 de Abril Bridge is also a cultural and historical landmark. It was completed in 1966 and is named after the date of the Carnation Revolution, which overthrew the authoritarian regime in Portugal. The bridge is a symbol of the country’s democratic transition and is an important part of the cultural identity of Lisbon.
The 25 de Abril Bridge is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the history and culture of Lisbon and enjoying the city’s nightlife. It is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season.
4. Visit the LX Factory
Lx Factory is a creative hub located in Lisbon, Portugal, known for its vibrant nightlife. It is a former industrial complex that has been converted into a hub for artists, designers, and entrepreneurs.
At night, Lx Factory comes to life with a variety of entertainment options, ranging from live music and performances to exhibitions and film screenings. The complex is home to a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late into the night. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse entertainment options.
In addition to its entertainment options, Lx Factory is also home to a number of creative businesses and organizations, such as art galleries, studios, and coworking spaces. It is a hub for innovation and creativity and is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the creative scene of Lisbon.
Lx Factory is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the vibrant nightlife of Lisbon and explore its creative and cultural scene.
5. Check out the Night Market at Time Out Market Lisboa
The Time Out Market in Lisbon, Portugal, is a popular destination for foodies and visitors looking to try a variety of local and international cuisines. The market hosts a number of events throughout the year, including the Night Market, a monthly event that takes place on the last Friday of every month.
During the Night Market, the Time Out Market transforms into a vibrant, lively atmosphere with a variety of entertainment options. The market is home to a number of food stalls and restaurants offering a wide range of culinary options, ranging from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international flavors. There are also a number of bars and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.
In addition to its food offerings, the Night Market also features a number of cultural events, such as live music, film screenings, and cooking demonstrations. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the diverse culinary scene of Lisbon. The Night Market takes place from 7 pm to midnight and is open to the public.
6. Catch a show at the Coliseum
The Coliseum of Lisbon is a theater and entertainment venue located in Lisbon, Portugal. It is one of the most iconic theaters in the city and is known for its diverse program of shows, including music, dance, theater, and comedy.
The Coliseum of Lisbon hosts a variety of shows throughout the year, ranging from traditional Portuguese performances to international productions. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and is known for its high-quality performances and state-of-the-art facilities.
In addition to its main stage, the Coliseum of Lisbon also has a number of smaller stages, which host a variety of shows, including concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events. It is a hub for entertainment and culture in Lisbon and is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural scene.
The Coliseum of Lisbon is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the show schedule and opening hours may vary depending on the season.
7. Head to the top of Miradouro de Santa Catarina or the Miradouro da Graça
Miradouro de Santa Catarina and Miradouro da Graça are viewpoints located in Lisbon, Portugal, known for its panoramic views of the city and the river. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the evening atmosphere and take in the views of the city.
At night, this viewpoints are illuminated with colorful lights and are a popular spot for photography. These are popular spots for locals and tourists to gather and enjoy the evening atmosphere.
This viewpoints are a must-visit for anyone that wants to take in the breathtaking views of the city. It is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season.
8. Go to the Oceanarium
At night, the Lisbon Oceanarium is illuminated with colorful lights and is a popular destination for families and visitors looking to explore the wonders of the ocean in a unique and exciting setting. The aquarium is divided into four main areas: the Atlantic, the Pacific, the Indian, and the Antarctic. Each area is home to a variety of marine life native to the corresponding region. Visitors can explore the various habitats and learn about the different species that live there.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the Lisbon Oceanarium also has a number of recreational facilities, such as playgrounds, restaurants, and gift shops. It is a popular destination for families and visitors of all ages and is open to the public year-round, although the opening hours may vary depending on the season. The Lisbon Oceanarium is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the world of marine life and learning about their important role in the environment.
9. Go on a ghost tour of the city
Ghost tours in Lisbon are a popular activity for visitors looking to explore the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage in a unique and exciting way. These tours typically take place at night and are led by local guides who are knowledgeable about the city’s history and folklore.
During a ghost tour of Lisbon, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the city’s hidden corners and discover its spooky secrets. The tours often take place in historic neighborhoods and landmarks, such as the Alfama district and the Castelo de São Jorge, and focus on the city’s dark history and legends. Visitors will learn about the city’s haunted landmarks and the stories of ghosts and spirits that are said to haunt them.
Ghost tours in Lisbon are a must-experience for anyone interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage and experiencing a different side of Lisbon. They are typically held in the evenings and last for about two hours. The tours are suitable for all ages, although they may not be suitable for young children or those who are easily scared.
10. Visit the Casa Independente
Casa Independente is a cultural center located in Lisbon, Portugal, known for its diverse program of events and activities. It is a hub for innovation and creativity and is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the city’s cultural scene.
Casa Independente is housed in a historic building in the heart of the city and is home to a number of cultural and creative organizations, such as art galleries, studios, and coworking spaces. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike and is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse entertainment options.
The cultural center hosts a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from live music and performances to exhibitions and film screenings. It is a hub for entertainment and culture in Lisbon and is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural scene.
Casa Independente is open to the public and can be visited year-round, although the opening hours and event schedule may vary depending on the season.
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