The 28 Best Things to Do Alone In Lisbon: A Comprehensive Guide! (2024)
Welcome to Lisbon, Portugal’s captivating capital that’s tailor-made for solo adventures!
I just visited on a mixed trip; I traveled there solo and was able to explore the city alone for a while before I met up with friends and turned the stay into a serious girl’s trip (the best of both worlds, you might say!).
Lisbon is walkable (or climbable) with its sun-drenched hills, has a vibrant culture, incredible history, amazing food, and make sure you try the sweet treat Pastel de Nata!
Your Ultimate Lisbon Solo Adventure Checklist
Although I visited Lisbon years ago, I definitely needed to rediscover the city this time as I did not remember much, to be honest.
My first rediscovery was that Lisbon is a city that takes a bit of time to navigate, as there are no distinct city centers but rather a collection of “areas” with a distinct ambiance, history, and characteristics.
This is why I did this guided walking tour of Lisbon on my first day; it was very well spent time and money! The guide was great, and I really got to know the central neighborhoods and the super interesting history of the city from the get-go.
Doing your research before visiting Lisbon is actually “more important” than visiting many other destinations because of its structure. You can read more about the different areas of Lisbon at the end of the article.
📍 EpicNomadLife Tip: Get the highly-rated Lisboa Card which offers access to over 50 popular sights and free city transport!
1. Get Lost in Alfama’s Labyrinthine Streets
You should go lose yourself (figuratively, of course!) in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. With its narrow, winding alleys and stunning viewpoints, it’s a photographer’s dream and a history buff’s paradise.
Alfama survived the 1755 earthquake that devastated much of Lisbon, preserving its medieval charm. You’ll discover hidden courtyards, small markets, and impromptu Fado performances as you wander.
This is also one of the most popular places to visit in Lisbon, so especially in the summer season you will not be the only tourist here, be aware! Don’t miss the Miradouro de Santa Luzia for breathtaking views of the Tagus River.
2. Explore the Belém District
Belém is a must-visit for its historical significance and mouthwatering pastries. Start your day here to beat the crowds and fully appreciate its wonders.
This riverside district is home to some of Lisbon’s most iconic monuments. Visit the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 16th century to defend the city.
Then, explore the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Don’t leave without trying the original pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém – they’ve been using the same secret recipe since 1837!
3. Ride the Iconic Tram 28
Hop aboard the famous yellow Tram 28 for a scenic tour of Lisbon’s hills. This is not just “transportation”; it’s a journey through time as well as a great way to orient yourself in the city.
This vintage tram has been climbing Lisbon’s steep hills since the 1930s. The route takes you through popular neighborhoods like Graça, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela.
Try to grab a seat by the window for the best views (but be aware that you are not the only one wanting to experience this tram ride), and hold on tight during the thrilling turns!
4. Immerse Yourself in Art at the Gulbenkian Museum
For art enthusiasts, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is a must-do. With its diverse collection spanning from ancient Egypt to the present day, it’s a perfect solo activity.
The museum houses over 6,000 pieces collected by oil magnate Calouste Gulbenkian. You’ll find everything from Egyptian artifacts and Oriental Islamic art to European old masters and modern works.
After exploring the exhibits, take a stroll through the museum’s amazing gardens – you will find it is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city.
5. Catch the Sunset at Miradouro de Santa Catarina
End your day with a stunning sunset view at this local favorite spot. It’s a great place to mingle with other sunset lovers who venture to this point at the end of the day.
Known to locals as “Adamastor” due to the statue of the mythical sea monster, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Tagus River (the entrance to Lisbon) and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Grab a drink from one of the nearby kiosks, find a spot on the terrace, and watch as the sun paints the sky in vibrant hues. Street musicians often provide a perfect ambiance to the spectacle.
6. Explore The City By Tuk-tuk!
You will see the super-cute, meticulously decorated tuk-tuks roaming around Lisbon, with bright colors and flowers from floor to ceiling!
The tuk-tuks are super easy to navigate in the narrow and steep cobblestone streets of Lisbon’s old neighborhoods. They are a great way to avoid some of the uphill climbing (especially to the further viewpoints).
Doing a guided tuk-tuk tour is a great way to explore parts of the city; your guide is chatting away in the front seat while you can lean back and enjoy the ride and surroundings!
7 Shop and Dine at the Time Out Market
The Time Out Market is your one-stop shop for sampling Portugal’s culinary delights. It’s ideal if you want to try a bit of everything in the food department.
Located in the historic Mercado da Ribeira, this gourmet food hall features over 40 carefully curated eateries.
You can sample dishes from some of Lisbon’s top chefs, try local wines, and indulge in artisanal desserts. It’s a great place to mingle with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying the best of Portuguese cuisine.
8. Take a Day Trip to Sintra
While technically not in Lisbon, Sintra is too magical to miss. Sintra is an easy day trip and perfect for solo travelers looking to explore beyond the city limits.
Just 40 minutes by train from Lisbon, Sintra feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The star attraction is the colorful Pena Palace, perched atop a hill and surrounded by lush forests.
Don’t miss the mystical Quinta da Regaleira with its inverted tower and secret tunnels. For the adventurous, hike up to the Moorish Castle for spectacular views of the region.
📍 EpicNomadLife Tip: Visit both Cascais and Sintra on a top-rated small group day trip for easy transport and great guiding; not missing out on anything!
9. Visit São Jorge Castle
Perched atop Lisbon’s highest hill, São Jorge Castle offers panoramic views of the city and a journey through Portugal’s rich history.
This Moorish castle dates back to the 11th century and played a crucial role in the city’s defense for centuries.
Explore the castle walls, climb the towers for breathtaking views, and visit the permanent exhibition to learn about Lisbon’s history. The peacocks roaming the grounds add a touch of whimsy to your visit.
10. Take a Cooking Class
Learn to make traditional Portuguese dishes in a hands-on cooking class. It’s a great way to meet people and take home a tasty new skill.
Many cooking schools in Lisbon offer classes where you can learn to make classics like bacalhau à brás (salt cod with potatoes and eggs) or cataplana (seafood stew), and even some irresistible pastries.
You’ll typically visit a local market to select ingredients before cooking and enjoying your meal with fellow food enthusiasts. It’s a delicious way to dive deep into Portuguese culture!
11. Explore LX Factory
This hipster haven is a former industrial complex turned creative hub. Browse unique shops, enjoy street art, and grab a coffee at one of the trendy cafes.
Once a fabric factory, LX Factory is now a vibrant cultural center home to art galleries, boutique shops, co-working spaces, and restaurants.
Don’t miss Ler Devagar, a stunning bookshop housed in a former printing press. On Sundays, the LX Market brings together local artisans selling handmade goods and vintage items.
12. Enjoy Fado in Bairro Alto
Experience the soulful sounds of Fado, Portugal’s traditional music, in one of Bairro Alto’s intimate venues.
Fado, characterized by its melancholic tunes and poetic lyrics, is an integral part of Portuguese culture.
In Bairro Alto, you’ll find numerous Fado houses where you can enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal while listening to talented fadistas perform. For an authentic experience, try Tasca do Chico or A Severa.
Just below Barrio Alto, you find Chiado district, where you can attend the Fado in Chiado show every night (minus Sundays) year round!
📍 EpicNomadLife Tip: Join a top-rated FREE Fado tour of Lisbon!
13. Stroll Through Príncipe Real
This trendy neighborhood is perfect for boutique shopping, people-watching in beautiful gardens, and enjoying Lisbon’s café culture.
Príncipe Real is known for its colorful 19th-century mansions, many of which now house concept stores, art galleries, and chic restaurants.
Visit the Embaixada; a stunning Arabian-style palace turned shopping gallery. On Saturdays, don’t miss the organic farmer’s market in the Príncipe Real Garden.
14. Ride the Santa Justa Lift
This neo-Gothic elevator not only connects lower and upper Lisbon but also offers stunning city views from its viewing platform.
Built in 1902 by a student of Gustave Eiffel, the Santa Justa Lift is both a practical means of transportation and a tourist attraction.
The intricate wrought-iron structure stands 45 meters tall and provides a unique perspective of Lisbon’s rooftops. Try to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid long queues.
📍 EpicNomadLife tip: A tip stolen from my walking tour guide; you don’t need to stand in line to take the lift. See the walkway to the viewpoint in the photo? If you walk 15 minutes more uphill, you can just walk out there!
15. Take a Street Art Tour
Discover Lisbon’s vibrant street art scene on a guided tour or create your own route through neighborhoods like Bairro Alto and Mouraria.
Lisbon has become a canvas for both local and international street artists. A guided tour can provide insights into the artists and the stories behind their works.
Look out for pieces by famous artists like Vhils, known for his unique chiseled portraits, and Bordalo II, who creates striking animal sculptures from trash.
You can join a street art tour for FREE in Lisbon, just make sure you tip the guide at the end what you think his or her effort is worth!
16. Visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa)
This 12th-century cathedral is not only beautiful but also rich in history, having survived several earthquakes.
The Sé is Lisbon’s oldest church, built on the site of a mosque after the city was recaptured from the Moors. Its mix of architectural styles reflects its long history of renovations and reconstructions.
Don’t miss the Gothic cloister and the Treasury, which houses religious artifacts and relics.
17. Visit the Oceanário de Lisboa
Europe’s largest indoor aquarium is a fascinating journey through the world’s oceans, perfect for a solo outing.
The Oceanário houses over 8,000 marine creatures from 500 different species. The main tank, representing the Global Ocean, is surrounded by four smaller tanks representing different marine ecosystems.
Don’t miss the adorable sea otters and the mesmerizing jellyfish exhibit.
18. Take a Food Tour
Join a guided food tour to sample local delicacies and learn about Portuguese cuisine. It’s a great way to meet fellow foodies!
Food tours typically include stops at traditional tascas (taverns), markets, and pastry shops. You’ll get to try specialties like bacalhau (salt cod), chouriço (chorizo), and ginjinha (sour cherry liqueur).
Many tours also include wine tasting, introducing you to Portugal’s excellent but often underrated wines.
19. End Your Trip at Miradouro das Portas do Sol
Cap off your Lisbon adventure with breathtaking views of the Tagus River and Alfama from this scenic viewpoint.
This terrace offers some of the best views in Lisbon, especially at sunset.
Watch as the light changes over Alfama’s terracotta roofs and the Tagus River. It’s a perfect spot for reflection and for capturing those last memorable photos of your Lisbon adventure.
20. Visit the National Tile Museum
Housed in a 16th-century convent, this museum showcases the art of azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles, azul means blue in Spanish) from the 15th century to the present day.
The Museu Nacional do Azulejo offers a fascinating look at Portugal’s tile-making tradition. You’ll see stunning examples of azulejos, including a 23-meter-long panel depicting Lisbon before the 1755 earthquake.
Don’t miss the beautiful baroque chapel adorned with gold leaf and azulejos.
21. Explore the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga
Art lovers shouldn’t miss this museum housing the most important public collection of ancient art in Portugal.
Known as MNAA, this museum showcases Portuguese and European art from the 14th to the early 19th centuries.
Highlights include Dürer’s St. Jerome and the Belém Monstrance, a masterpiece of Portuguese goldsmithing. The museum’s garden café offers beautiful views of the Tagus River.
22. Try The Historic “Medicine” Ginjinha
Ginjinha, affectionately known as ‘ginja’, is a beloved Portuguese liqueur.
It is a cherry-flavored drink made by infusing sour cherries (ginja berries) in alcohol, typically aguardente (a grape-based spirit), along with sugar and cinnamon or herbs.
Ginjinha’s roots trace back to the early 17th century when a friar in the Church of Santo António in Lisbon first concocted it. Initially praised for its medicinal properties, people (including children) took shots of this daily to stay healthy. Imagine that, as the drink contains 18-24 % alcohol!
Over time, ginjinha (not surprisingly) transitioned from a health tonic to a popular recreational drink, becoming an integral part of Lisbon’s social fabric.
You can test this historic liqueur today at tiny, hole-in-the-wall bars scattered throughout the city, where it’s traditionally served in small chocolate cups.
23. Relax at Carcavelos Beach
Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Carcavelos Beach offers golden sands and blue waters, perfect for a solo beach day trip.
This wide, 1.5km long beach is popular with both locals and tourists. It’s great for sunbathing, swimming, and even surfing (you can rent equipment or take lessons at local surf schools).
There are plenty of beach bars and restaurants along the promenade for refreshments.
📍 EpicNomadLife Tip: You might notice that Cascais, a popular small town/beach destination, is closer to Lisbon than Carcavelos. I do recommend, however, that you travel the extra distance, as Carcavelos has a much better beach and is less touristy than Cascais!
24. Explore Park of the Nations (Parque das Nações)
This modern neighborhood, the site of the 1998 World Exposition, offers futuristic architecture, green spaces, and the impressive Vasco da Gama Bridge a bit north of Lisbon.
Parque das Nações is a stark contrast to Lisbon’s historic center. Take a ride on the cable car for great views of the Tagus River and Europe’s longest bridge.
You should also visit the Vasco da Gama Tower and explore the interactive Pavilion of Knowledge, or you can, of course, simply relax in one of the waterfront parks.
25. Visit the Carmo Convent
This haunting ruined Gothic church serves as a poignant reminder of the 1755 earthquake and houses an archaeological museum.
The roofless nave of the Carmo Convent is one of Lisbon’s most striking sights. The museum houses a eclectic collection of artifacts, including mummies, azulejos, and tomb sculptures.
The convent’s terrace offers beautiful views over Rossio Square and the Baixa neighborhood.
26. Ride the Elevador da Glória
This funicular connects downtown to Bairro Alto, offering a fun ride and great photo opportunities of Lisbon’s steep streets.
Built in 1885, the Glória Funicular is one of Lisbon’s three remaining funiculars. The short but steep ride offers great views and photo ops.
At the top, you’ll find yourself at the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, another fantastic viewpoint over the city.
27. Explore Mouraria
One of Lisbon’s most multicultural neighborhoods, Mouraria offers a glimpse into the city’s diverse communities and is the birthplace of Fado.
Mouraria was once the Moorish quarter of Lisbon and today is home to a vibrant mix of cultures. Wander its narrow streets to discover colorful murals, traditional shops, and hidden Fado houses.
Don’t miss the Renovar a Mouraria community center, which offers cultural events and neighborhood tours.
28. Visit the Museu do Aljube
Learn about Portugal’s resistance to dictatorship and the struggle for freedom at this thought-provoking museum.
Portugals colonial history is slightly different than the rest of the European colonial powers, and it also kept its colonies for a lot longer. Initially, Salazar, who went down in history as a dictator, started out as a well-liked and fair president.
The history of how domestic and international events turned that around so that Portugal became a suppressed nation is super interesting, and you can learn all about that here (or on a guided walking tour of Lisbon, like I did).
Housed in a former prison, the Aljube Museum of Resistance and Freedom documents Portugal’s 48-year dictatorship and the resistance movement that led to the 1974 Carnation Revolution.
It’s a sobering but important glimpse into Portugal’s recent history.
Lisbon’s Most Charming Neighborhoods
Lisbon is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique flavor. Here’s a quick guide to the areas you shouldn’t miss:
Baixa
The heart of Lisbon, Baixa, is the downtown area rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. It’s all about grand squares, shopping, and history.
Chiado
Chic and sophisticated, Chiado is the cultural hub of Lisbon. Think boutique shops, historic cafes, and theaters.
Bairro Alto
By day, a quiet residential area. By night, the epicenter of Lisbon’s nightlife. Perfect for bar-hopping and meeting fellow travelers.
Príncipe Real
Hip and trendy, this neighborhood is known for its concept stores, cool cafes, and beautiful gardens.
Alfama
The oldest district in Lisbon, Alfama charms with its maze-like streets, traditional Fado houses, and stunning miradouros (viewpoints).
Best Places To Stay In Lisbon Solo
For the first part of my stay, I chose to stay at a hostel, as I have found that (good) hostels give me the best experiences when traveling solo.
Selina Secret Garden Hostel
The Selina Secret Garden is a super, top-rated option (although not best-rated, I chose it because of its amenities and ambiance) if you like the sociability of a hostel as well as nice and central surroundings.
Here, you have a rooftop restaurant and bar, backyard pool, breakfast restaurant, working area, activity & yoga room (and free yoga every morning).
There are also really nice wide beds with shelves, a cupboard, thick curtains that give lots of privacy, and quiet dorm rooms. From the Selina, you can walk to all the most popular barrios, areas, of central Lisbon.
Other Top-Rated Hostel Options
In fact, most hostels in Lisbon have single rooms if you prefer that, or you can have a super-budget stay in a dorm.
The best hostels also have really great beds and “privacy optimized” dorms where you feel completely safe and comfortable. Here are two more hostel options in Lisbon that have outstanding reviews.
We Hate F Tourists in Arrois, a bit north of the city center
LX Hostel in Alcantara close to the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge
Getting Around Lisbon
There are a myriad of transport options in Lisbon. First and foremost, the central area of the city is walkable, if you don’t mind the up and down in this hilly capital.
You can also rent bikes or download the app to get city bikes all around the city.
The trams also crisscross the Portuguese capital. If you get the Lisboa card, you can jump on and off anywhere without thinking about getting tickets.
Then you have the tuk-tuks! You find tuk-tuks all around the city, that offer guided tours of various lengths. But if you just want to get from A to B, you can negotiate a price for that too!
It is also easy to get Ubers in Lisbon; it is fast, convenient, and not expensive.
If you want to take a day trip out of Lisbon, take the train or rent a car. It is easy and cheap to go by train to famous destinations like Cascais and Sintra (1-1,5 hours away), but maybe more fun with a road trip?
Also, if you are a bit short on time visiting Portugal and want to experience a bit more than just the capital, you are well advised to create an itinerary for your Portugal trip so you don’t miss out on any of the best stuff!
Frequently Asked Questions About Lisbon
Is Lisbon safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely! Lisbon is generally very safe for solo travelers, including women.
As with any city, practice common sense: be aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in touristy spots.
What’s the best time to visit Lisbon?
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are ideal. You’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Summer is beautiful but can be hot and crowded.
Do I need to speak Portuguese to get around?
No, you don’t need to speak Portuguese in Lisbon. While learning a few basic phrases is always appreciated, you can easily get by using English in Lisbon, especially in touristy areas and restaurants.
How many days should I spend in Lisbon?
I would say aim for at least 4-5 days to cover the main attractions and get a feel for the city. If you want to include day trips to places like Sintra or Cascais, consider staying for a week or more.
Wrap-Up Best Things To Do In Lisbon Alone
Lisbon is a city that captures hearts with its blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, but you might want to give the city a bit of time.
This is because it might take a few days to get the hang of things, what is what, and where is where.
Once you have grasped the different neighborhoods, walked around a bit, and understood the structure of the city, you will likely fall madly in love!
As a solo traveler, you’ll find endless opportunities for adventure, self-discovery, and unforgettable experiences.
From getting lost in ancient alleyways to watching the sunset over the Tagus River, I am pretty sure the capital of Portugal will capture a little part of your heart while you are there!
Related blog posts:
The Ultimate Guide to Lisbon: Is It Worth Visiting (Solo)? (Spoiler: Absolutely!)
Luminous Lisbon in December: Your Ultimate Guide to a Festive Portuguese Getaway
Great suggestions! One activity we really enjoyed was the tile making workshop. They offer it at the national tile museum and also as a standalone activity. It’s a great experience and souvenir!
Hi Sonia, thank you for mentioning that! A great thing to do in the “tile capital” of the world! 🙂
I’m torn between a food tour or a cooking class, so I’d probably end up doing both as well as many of the other incredible activities you’ve listed here. Lisbon looks like a great place to visit, especially as a solo traveler, which I often am
There is sooo much good food in Lisbon (in addition to the irresistible pastry), especially seafood!