Famed for its vibrant colour, Moorish builders and vintage yellow trams, Lisbon has long been a popular classic city break destination. Be it a week or long weekend, solo or otherwise, this vibrant city is up there on the list of great escapes.

Expect slippy limestone pavements, washing hanging from dated apartment blocks street art and spectacular views. Lisbon offers many things to do, so much so that you may not know where to start, but here are six unique things to do in Lisbon that will hopefully serve as a good primer. As it’s easy to navigate as a solo female, safely, I would also suggest getting lost in it all, and you will no doubt happen upon a lot more.

1. Visit one of the many Miradouros

Lisbon’s many hills though tiring on the legs awaken the inner child when whizzing around on trams and are excellent for its viewpoints (known as Miradouros) over the city.

Often located at the highest point of each hill, Miradouros mercifully provide seating areas and kiosks for respite and refuel. With numerous to view from, each providing a different perspective, which is best is a matter of subjective opinion. But here are a few:

Miradouro das Portas do Sol

This iconic viewpoint overlooks a sea of terracotta rooftops and domes of the city’s oldest and most charismatic neighbourhood, Alfama and the Tagus River, providing a pretty dreamy vista.

From the rooftop viewing deck, observe, or wine and dine while appreciating Lisbon’s seductive view, further mellowed by the backdrop of live music from skilful street musicians. Located near São Jorge Castle, this Miradouro is easily accessible – along with other notable viewpoints – via the famed No. 28 tram which is also a symbol of many a souvenir.

Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

Located in the Bairro Alto district (where the nightlife kicks off), Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is another acclaimed location from which to admire views of the city. The landscaped terrace (split into two levels) helpfully provides a map made of classic Portuguese tiles assisting visitors in spotting landmarks.

Save your legs (you will need to!) by taking the Glória Elevator from downtown Lisbon up to the viewpoint.

The vista is made even more unique, experienced Caipirinha in hand during the evening, as the fading sunlight illuminates central Lisbon and São Jorge Castle.

Warning – hills, limestone pavements and too many Caipirinhas are not the best combinations!

Miradouro Chao do Loureiro

Located on the rooftop of a building, that was once a supermarket, Largo do Chao do Loureiro is now a multifunctional car park housing a panorama over downtown Lisbon.

To reach the top, you could take the panoramic elevator, however climbing yet more stairs will reward you with inventive street art along the way.

2. Experience Ginjinha

Ginjinha is a traditional sweet Portuguese liqueur made by infusing ginja berries (Morello Cherries) in alcohol and served as a shot.

Sweet, with the cherries adding a hint of tartness, it provides a much-needed energy boost to help propel you up Lisbon’s steep inclines.

Most of Lisbon’s ginjinha bars are hole-in-the-wall establishments and some, the tiniest bars in Lisbon, with room for only a few customers. This though adds to the experience as you stand outside and congregate with other ginja drinkers. 

‘A Ginjinha’ in Largo São Domingos is the most famous Ginjinha bar and traditional home of the cherry liqueur. Note though, this is the most popular place in Lisbon to try Ginjinha and therefore, tourist-heavy.

Mais uma por favor!

3. Hit the beach

Though you may think Lisbon and the beach are an unlikely pairing, there are, in fact, several nearby. Two options being:

Cascais

Take a simple 45-minute journey from Lisbon, by train, with scenic shoreline views along the way. This classic coastal resort town has old-style Portuguese character, golden sand beaches and cold but tranquil turquoise blue waters.

The town’s authentic feel is reminiscent of an old school bucket-and-spade English seaside town and has no shortage of authenticity, shops, restaurants, bars and beach activities.

Praia da Rainha and Praia da Ribeira are two beaches reachable almost immediately of departing the train, directly in town.

Carcavalos beach

The largest beach of the Lisbon – Cascais coastline, stretching over an impressive 1.5km, Carcavalos is located approximately 30 minutes, by train, from the centre of Lisbon and a leisurely 10-minute walk from Carcavalos train station.

A surfer’s hotspot, the sea is not as calm as those mentioned in Cascais and is purely a stretch of beach with a wide choice of restaurants, bars and terraces. Though sufficient for sun-worshipping, the slightly longer journey to Cascais is recommended, as a more enjoyable option.   

For convenience and frugal travel, purchase a reusable Viva Viagem card at almost any train or metro station.

4. Pasteis de Belem

Are you a Pastel de nata fan?

Paying a visit to what is considered the home of the famous custard tart is a must when in Lisbon if you are.

Though many variations of Pastéis de Nata are available (in abundance) throughout the country, Belém Pastry only exists in Belém and have been the original pioneers since established in 1837.

Expect to wait for this unique dining experience, as the queues at Pasteis de Belem are almost as long as their history. The original secret recipe is recreated here every day by hand, and it seems everyone wants a piece of it. Do though, carry out your civic duty and sample as many Pastéis de Nata and Pasteis de Belem as possible to decide whether original, means best.

5. Tour Alfama

Explore the maze of narrow cobbled streets, authentic Fado restaurants and ancient houses of Alfama.

During the time of Moorish rule, Lisbon consisted only of Alfama. It is the oldest and most traditional neighbourhood in Lisbon, having survived the great earthquake and subsequent fires and tidal waves of 1755, almost intact.

The Moors are also responsible for the web of steep, narrow winding streets (created as a defence system), which lead up arduous staircases from the Tagus River to São Jorge Castle. If, by this time your legs are giving way, flag down tram 28, which you will hear rattling its way around the ancient streets, tight corners and hills.

Free walking tours are available and recommend for insight into local history. Otherwise, losing yourself in the warren of lanes will expose hidden gems until familiar territory reveals itself again.

6. Time Out Market

There is no shortage of food options at Time Out Market – you may even feel a little overwhelmed. The food court, located at Mercado da Ribeira and run by Time Out Lisboa Magazine, houses a selection of over 20 restaurants headed by some of Lisbon’s leading chefs.

Offering the best of Lisbon in a communal space, from food to live performances, it is a pretty cool hangout for just about anyone. The open space also furnishes eight bars, a selection of food shops and buzzing energy.

Check out Sea Me for Portuguese and international fish and seafood dishes.

7. Go to a Festival

Split your time in Lisbon between touring and partying. Check Suncebeat Festival which takes place yearly in June/July.

Restaurant Recommendations

Sol Brasil – Highly recommended. The food is delicious. This restaurant was recommended by a local and there were a lot of locals eating there which says it all. Try the octopus and cassava fries.

Com Sabores – Good food and service. Try the seabass risotto.

Hotel Recommendations

If you’re on a budget Estrela de Arganil offers a five-star service in a convenient location.

If you fancy being a bit more fancy, try Dos Reis by The Beautique Hotels.

If you fancy a rooftop pool and easy access to major points of interest, Hotel Mercure Lisboa is recommended.

Tip: Speaking a little Portuguese takes you far. So, don’t be shy – give it a go. It will be appreciated!

Desfruta!