🇵🇹 Portugal
Lisbon travel guide
Lisbon is one of Europe's most captivating capitals - a city of seven hills with pastel-colored buildings, vintage trams, and the soulful sounds of fado music. The combination of Atlantic breezes, incredible seafood, historic Alfama neighborhood, and laid-back Portuguese warmth makes Lisbon an unforgettable destination. Add in excellent value for money, and it's no surprise Lisbon has become so beloved.
Language
Portuguese (English widely spoken)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Timezone
GMT (GMT+1 summer)
Best time
March to May and September to October (pleasant weather, fewer crowds)
Budget/day
€70-150/day
When to visit
Jan
8°C - 15°C
Feb
9°C - 16°C
Mar
11°C - 18°C
Apr
13°C - 20°C
May
15°C - 23°C
Jun
17°C - 26°C
Jul
18°C - 28°C
Aug
18°C - 28°C
Sep
17°C - 26°C
Oct
14°C - 22°C
Nov
11°C - 18°C
Dec
9°C - 15°C
Safety
safeLisbon is safe. Watch for pickpockets on Tram 28 and in Alfama.
Women travellers
Very safe city. Some pickpocketing on trams and tourist areas. Night life in Bairro Alto is lively but safe.
Culture & etiquette
- + Greet with "Bom dia" (morning) / "Boa tarde" (afternoon)
- + Be patient - life is relaxed in Lisbon
- + Try fado music - the soul of Portugal
- + Learn a few Portuguese words - appreciated
- - Don't speak Spanish thinking it's the same (it's not)
- - Don't photograph people at fado shows (disruptive)
- - Don't rush restaurant service - enjoy it
- - Don't compare to Spain (sensitive topic)
Food to try
Pastel de Nata
Custard tart - Pastéis de Belém is iconic
Bacalhau
Salted cod - 365 ways to cook it, they say
Francesinha (from Porto)
Meat sandwich with cheese and sauce
Grilled Sardines
Especially in June (Santos Populares)
Bifana
Pork sandwich with mustard
Ginjinha
Sour cherry liqueur shot
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.