Lisbon isn’t just a city. It’s a mood. A warm, cobblestone-coated, pastel-tiled, slightly tipsy mood that smells like grilled sardines and feels like fado on your skin. Its faded pastel facades, cloaked in decades of sun and sea air, tell stories in chipped paint and timeworn charm.
The city’s iconic azulejos (blue-and-white painted tiles) are the perfect backdrop for those beautiful pictures for your socials. And if you’ve got a weekend, Lisbon has the magic to make you believe you’re fluent in Portuguese after two glasses of vinho verde. Here’s our comprehensive guide to spending a weekend in Lisbon;
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Best Time to Visit Lisbon
The best time to experience Lisbon’s charm is during the shoulder seasons—spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November). These months strike the perfect balance: mild, comfortable weather, blooming cityscapes (especially in April), and far fewer crowds than the bustling summer season.
Prices are also generally more reasonable, and you won’t have to elbow your way through Alfama just to get a pastel de nata. Spring offers a colorful burst of flowers and sunny afternoons, though you may want to pack an umbrella for the occasional shower. Autumn, particularly September, is ideal for river cruises along the Tagus and lingering dinners on scenic terraces.
If you don’t mind the company of every other tourist in Europe, summer (June to August) works just fine too. The season brings hot, dry days perfect for beach escapes—just prepare for packed trams, higher hotel rates, and Lisbon’s infamous August winds. Winter (December to February), while cooler and wetter, still sees a decent amount of sunshine and is great for those who want to explore without the crowds.
Top Things to Do in Lisbon
Explore Praça do Comércio
Praça do Comércio, also known as Terreiro do Paço, is one of Lisbon’s grandest and most historically charged landmarks. Flanked by the Tagus River on one side and the Rua da Augusta on the other, this open-air square was once the site of the Ribeira Palace. It was a royal residence that was tragically destroyed during the devastating 1755 earthquake.
In its place rose a symbol of resilience: a symmetrical layout of stately government buildings tasked with overseeing port and customs operations. At its heart stands the bronze statue of King José I, triumphantly mounted on horseback, unveiled in 1775 as a tribute to the monarch who oversaw Lisbon’s ambitious rebuilding.
A visit isn’t complete without stepping into Martinho da Arcada, Lisbon’s oldest café, which has been serving espresso and history since the 18th century. For a panoramic finish, climb to the top of the triumphal arch that marks the entrance to the square. It’s a literal high point offering sweeping views over the city’s rooftops and the river’s shimmering expanse.
Explore Lisbon on the Famous Tram 28
Tram 28 is arguably Lisbon’s most iconic ride. It weaves its way through some of the city’s most historic and picturesque neighborhoods—including Alfama, Baixa, Estrela, and Graca. This yellow tram also passes major landmarks like the Lisbon Cathedral, Praça do Comércio, Rua Augusta, Miradouro das Portas do Sol, and the Basilica da Estrela.
However, popularity comes at a price: the trams are frequently packed to the brim, especially during midday when boarding lines can stretch for up to an hour. Seats are a rare luxury unless passengers catch the tram early in the day from its starting point at Praça Martim Moniz.
Visit the Lisbon Cathedral
The Lisbon Cathedral, commonly referred to as Sé de Lisboa, is the city’s oldest church. Originally built in the 12th century, it has weathered centuries of change, including partial destruction during the devastating 1755 earthquake. Subsequent renovations have blended Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements, giving the cathedral its layered architectural character.
Visitors can explore its interior, where the nave leads to quiet Gothic hallways lined with small chapels and colorful stained-glass windows. The upper outdoor balcony offers a modest view over the surrounding streets. The cathedral also houses several religious artifacts, though photography is strictly prohibited in this section. Admission costs €5 for adults, €3 for children aged 7 to 12, and is free for children under 7.
Check Out Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Miradouro de Santa Luzia is one of Lisbon’s most iconic viewpoints, known for its postcard-worthy views and Mediterranean ambiance. The small terrace offers sweeping vistas over the red rooftops of the Alfama district, the gleaming Tagus River, and the grand domes of São Vicente de Fora.
The terrace itself is shaded by grapevines and framed by white columns, evoking a charm reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast. On clear days, cruise ships often dot the river below, adding to the scenic drama. Though serene in appearance, the miradouro draws large crowds, particularly during midday. For a quieter experience and the best light for photography, early mornings or late afternoons are ideal.
See the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora
Tucked away in the Alfama district, the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora is one of the most historically significant religious sites in Portugal. Founded in 1147—the same year as the Lisbon Cathedral—the monastery was dedicated to Saint Vincent of Saragossa. His relics were transferred here from the Algarve in the 12th century.
While the original structure dates back to the early days of the Christian reconquest, much of the building visible today reflects 16th-century design. The interiors are adorned with intricate azulejos—blue-painted tiles—depicting historical scenes and religious narratives, adding an artistic dimension to the monastery’s solemn spaces.
One of the most rewarding moments is the climb to the rooftop, where sweeping views over Lisbon rival those from the city’s famous miradouros. Despite its significance, the monastery remains relatively uncrowded, offering a tranquil and contemplative experience. You should also take a moment to explore the adjacent Church of São Vicente de Fora.
Conclusion
A weekend in Lisbon isn’t just a short trip. It’s an emotional affair. You’ll fall hard and fast—for the food, the music, the light, the tiles, the inexplicable sense that maybe, just maybe, this could be home. But it’s not. So, you’ll go back to your regular life and keep dreaming of Lisbon. And that’s exactly how it should be.
